By joining forces, Emirates and flydubai offer customers access to a combined network of more than 225 unique destinations in more than 100 countries. Seven years ago, Emirates and flydubai jointly embarked on a partnership that would give travellers extraordinary access to an unrivalled network, unlocking connections and opportunities, and shaping the future of travel from, to and through Dubai. Here’s seven ways the partnership is paying off for travellers: Emirates customers can explore more than 118 flydubai destinations, while flydubai passengers can access more than 136 Emirates destinations. Top destinations for customers include Baku, Krabi, Naples and Zanzibar. On average, customers can choose from 275 codeshare flights each day which means expanded schedules and more flexibility when choosing departure times. Together, both airlines operated more than 1.5 million flights since 2017, carrying more than 19 million passengers across the joint network. That’s equal to the combined populations of Paris and New York City. Customers continue to benefit with seamless on-ground experiences including a smooth check-in process, efficient baggage transfers, optimised flight schedules and enhanced connectivity at Dubai Airports with access to Terminal 3. More than 300 weekly flights operated by flydubai depart Terminal 3 to popular destinations including Kathmandu, Krabi and Zanzibar. flydubai’s Business Class passengers can also enjoy the new Business Class check-in area at Terminal 2 which offers a unique and smooth check-in experience with a personalised Meet and Assist service, seated check-in and a Fast Track service through passport control and security lanes. Passengers also benefit from access to world-class airport lounges, including Emirates’ signature lounges in Terminal 3. Over the past 7 years, more than 250,000 flydubai passengers have enjoyed access to Emirates’ lounges. Emirates Skywards, the …
Read More »SAUDIA partners with Choice Hotels to boost AlFursan loyalty program’s benefits reinforcing its commitment to expanding partnerships and offering greater rewards
SAUDIA announced a partnership between AlFursan loyalty program and Choice Hotels, enabling AlFursan members to join Choice Privileges, the loyalty program of Choice Hotels. The agreement was signed by Essam Akhonbay, Vice President of AlFursan Loyalty Program at SAUDIA, and Nour Ghanem, General Manager of Choice Hotels in Saudi Arabia. As part of the partnership, AlFursan members will earn 1,000 AlFursan reward miles for every 5,000 Choice Privileges points converted. Essam Akhonbay, the Vice President of AlFursan Loyalty Program at SAUDIA, commented: “This partnership reflects SAUDIA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its global network of partnerships and offering more exclusive benefits to AlFursan members. With Choice Hotels’ extensive portfolio across the world, this collaboration opens a wealth of new opportunities for our members to enjoy exceptional travel experiences worldwide.” David Beers, CEO of Choice Hotels EMEA, said: “We continue to focus on adding redemption benefits that provide further value for our members so they can redeem the points they have earned by staying at nearly 7,500 Choice Hotels around the world. This new agreement is a great expansion of the rewards and opportunities that are available to the 65 million Choice Privileges members for their travels.” AlFursan members enjoy a wide range of benefits and exclusive offers through extensive local and global partnerships, allowing members to accelerate the earning of Miles to redeem for flights with SAUDIA and our SkyTeam partners.
Read More »Kuwait Airways strengthens its partnership with Amadeus to improve and develop the customer booking experience
Kuwait Airways announced the strengthening of its partnership with Amadeus, which specializes in providing technology, innovation services and solutions to airlines, to develop a streamlined booking process for passengers travelling on Kuwait Airways. Captain Abdulmohsen Salem Al-Fagaan, Chairman – Kuwait Airways stated, “Kuwait Airways is pleased to announce the strengthening of the partnership with Amadeus, one of the leading providers of technology and solutions for airlines in the global air transport sector. Through this partnership, Amadeus will enhance the booking mechanism to provide our valued customers with a simplified and streamlined process.” Al-Fagaan added, “Kuwait Airways customers can now book their flights in just three simple steps. This enhanced booking process has been designed to assist customers in the best possible way, providing them with essential information needed to make informed decisions quickly, while eliminating unnecessary complexities.” Al-Fagaan further stated, “Kuwait Airways is committed to providing its valued customers with an exceptional and comfortable travel experience and in facilitating the booking procedures for all our passengers. Through close collaboration with Amadeus, we can rely on their expertise and professionalism to significantly enhance the transformation of the digital experience for all our customers and Oasis Club members.” Maher Koubaa, EVP Travel unit and Managing Director, EMEA, Amadeus stated, “At Amadeus, we are proud to support Kuwait Airways on this transformative journey. Our ongoing dedication to enhancing the customer experience for Kuwait Airways passengers will continue to drive new innovations and improvements and providing them with diverse options.“
Read More »flydubai and Batik Air announce strategic interline agreement
flydubai and Batik Air Malaysia announced an interline agreement that will offer flydubai passengers access to more than 40 destinations across Batik Air’s network via Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL). The interline agreement will offer passengers seamless connectivity between the UAE, Malaysia and beyond as they explore new routes on the carriers’ combined networks, offering the convenience of a single booking and through-checked baggage. flydubai customers will have the opportunity to explore more than 40 destinations across Southeast Asia on the Batik Air network including Hanoi, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Osaka and Sydney. In addition, Batik Air passengers will have the opportunity to travel conveniently to 38 destinations on flydubai’s growing network across Africa, Central Asia, the Caucasus, Central and Southeast Europe as well as the GCC and the Middle East. This includes unique destinations such as Entebbe, Istanbul, Milan-Bergamo, Prague and Zagreb. Commenting on the interline agreement, Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “we are pleased to add Batik Air to our growing list of partners, offering their passengers a smooth travel experience on a young and modern fleet, with our great service and enhanced cabin interior, as they explore our growing network. We look forward to offering our passengers more opportunities to explore Southeast Asia and beyond and we remain committed to creating free flows of trade and tourism and supporting Dubai’s position as a thriving aviation hub.” Batik Air Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said that this agreement marks a significant step forward in expanding travel possibilities for valued passengers. “By bringing together the networks of Batik Air and flydubai, we’re not only making it easier for travellers to connect with …
Read More »Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Hilton sign strategic MoU to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city
Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Hilton have signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) that will further enhance the destination’s visibility globally and support the hotel group with team member training and service optimisation. This new phase of their ongoing partnership is in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure, underscoring the commitment of DET and Hilton to drive excellence across the tourism sector by creating outstanding experiences for visitors. Designed to establish a collaborative framework between the entities, the MoU will focus on joint marketing initiatives, including through advertising campaigns and social media, actively promoting Dubai as a premier destination. They will also roll out tourism products that highlight the city’s unique attractions, integrating these experiences into seasonal packages to provide visitors with authentic insights into the city. Furthermore, there will be opportunities to incorporate Dubai experiences into the Hilton Honors loyalty programme, which has more than 195 million members globally. Meanwhile, Hilton will be able to leverage DET’s training and capacity building, offered through its Dubai College of Tourism, to enhance team member skills in areas such as customer service and cultural awareness, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to visitors. The MoU was signed at DET’s headquarters by His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, and Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East & Africa at Hilton. His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “Hilton has been a key part of Dubai’s tourism growth story over recent decades, contributing …
Read More »Qatar Executive and Qatar Airways Privilege Club announce first-of-its-kind partnership
Qatar Executive and Qatar Airways Privilege Club announced a new partnership that will bring exclusive benefits to loyalty members. Propelling innovation in the loyalty and private charter industry, Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club members and Qatar Executive clients will have an opportunity to collect and spend Avios when flying on Qatar Executive chartered flights, including the G700, G650ER, Global 5000 and Airbus A319CJ. By simply booking directly with Qatar Executive, loyalty members can collect four Avios for every one USD spent. Members will also be able to redeem their Avios in full or through Cash + Avios for Qatar Executive flights. The partnership brings exclusive benefits for first time bookings. Privilege Club members flying Qatar Executive will be entitled to receive four complementary tier upgrades, which includes one Platinum and three Gold tiers which can be offered to individuals of their choice. Qatar Airways Senior Vice President Loyalty, Mr. Thomas Vadakedath said: “As Privilege Club continues to augment the loyalty programme with exclusive experiences for our members, we are proud to collaborate with Qatar Executive. Members who prefer flying in the comfort of private charters can now collect Avios when making their bookings with Qatar Executive. Furthermore, members can now also choose to experience the luxury of Qatar Executive by paying for their flight, either in full or part with Avios. We look forward to seeing our members benefit from this fruitful collaboration.” Qatar Executive Vice President Commercial, Mr. Trevor Esling, said: “As we continue to set the standard for business aviation, our partnership with Qatar Airways Privilege Club further enhances the exclusive benefits we offer to our clientele. The programme aims to reward our loyal passengers, while creating further synergies within the …
Read More »RAK Properties and Minor Hotels expand partnership announcing Anantara Branded Residences in Mina Al Arab Agreement signed at the Future Hospitality Summit
RAK Properties has expanded its partnership with Minor Hotels to introduce the upcoming Anantara Branded Residences on Mina al Arab in Ras Al Khaimah. The signing ceremony took place during the Future Hospitality Summit, marking another significant milestone in RAK Properties’ vision to position Mina Al Arab as a leading global destination for luxury island living within a vibrant community hub. This expanded collaboration, part of RAK Properties’ broader strategy of integrating renowned international hospitality brands, reinforces Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal to investors and residents seeking high-end living. By integrating world-class brands like Anantara, RAK Properties demonstrates its commitment to sustainable developments that enhance the emirate’s allure for luxury living and tourism. This represents a milestone in the expansion of the company’s premium real estate portfolio and supports Ras Al Khaimah’s vision for luxury waterfront living. The Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Residences promise an unparalleled lifestyle, where the tranquillity of traditional Thai design will meet the tropical allure of Ras Al Khaimah. Residents will enjoy the epitome of luxury living, complete with world-class amenities, private infinity pools, expansive terraces, and direct access to the pristine shoreline — all within the comfort and privacy of their own sea-view apartment or overwater villa. The development will include around 94 residential apartments and 20 overwater villas. JT&P has been appointed as the lead designer, ensuring the project’s architectural excellence and seamless integration into the natural surroundings. Sameh Muhtadi, CEO of RAK Properties, said: “Our continued partnership with Minor Hotels is a key milestone in expanding our luxury portfolio. The Anantara brand aligns perfectly with our vision of delivering world-class, sustainable developments that highlight the natural beauty of Ras Al Khaimah. …
Read More »H.I.S. broadens partnership with IBS Software to modernise the air shopping experience
H.I.S integrates IBS Software’s innovative technology solutions to modernise the air shopping experience for customers. Extending a 14-year strong partnership with IBS Software – a leading SaaS solutions provider to the global travel industry globally – H.I.S. will continue a transformative technology approach to travel. The renewed partnership allows H.I.S. to continue to create a modern customer experience using next-generation digital solutions. This is achieved by leveraging IBS Software next-generation technology solutions to integrate suppliers and/or partners within the customer offers process. This shift towards Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning enabled automation will allow H.I.S. to deliver an enhanced shopping experience for customers, with heightened personalisation and targeted offers. The collaboration reflects H.I.S.’ ambition to meet the needs of the changing digital consumer. By continuing to implement IBS Software’s forward thinking technical solutions, H.I.S. will be ready to serve and adapt to their customers digital travel needs. Kiyoshi Takano, Executive Officer of IT&DX Division, H.I.S., said, “Understanding Customer Lifetime Value (CLV) is crucial for H.I.S. business for sustainable growth. It’s not just about the first sale—it’s about building lasting relationships that keep customers coming back for more. Our extended partnership with IBS Software will help us remain digitally innovative and meet the changing needs of our customers, enhance customer satisfaction, foster loyalty, and drive repeat business. Continuing to focus on our digital transformation is a key business priority for us, and IBS Software’s expertise will not only allow us to use technology to deepen our offerings and modernise our shopping experiences, but also benefit our internal operational efficiencies.” “H.I.S. recognizes the role that advanced technology plays in transforming customer service. Our combined expertise and shared vision for innovation will enable us …
Read More »Etihad Airways and EgyptAir sign MoU to deepen relationship
Etihad Airways and Egyptair have signalled their intent to strengthen their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to enhance commercial and operational ties to provide travellers with wider choices, higher quality services and increased value.* Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “This agreement will help further deepen our codeshare with EGYPTAIR opening up seamless travel for guests of both airlines across our networks. It also lays the tracks for co-operation across both our frequent flyer programs and will enable us to explore collaboration on joint-marketing campaigns and promotions designed to stimulate and reward our customers.” Yehia Zakaria, Chairman & CEO at EGYPTAIR, said: “This MoU strengthens our strategic partnership with Etihad Airways, and underscores our commitment to providing our valued customers with a seamless travel experience and access to a wider network. “I am confident that this partnership with Etihad Airways will not only benefit our passengers but also foster a stronger relationship between Egypt and United Arab Emirates. We look forward to a successful collaboration, soaring to new heights together.” The existing codeshare agreement gives customers of both airlines enhanced connectivity to destinations across each other’s networks, between Egypt and the UAE as well beyond Cairo into Africa and beyond Abu Dhabi into Asia. The agreement enables guests to book their entire journey on a single ticket and have their baggage checked through seamlessly to their end destination. This MoU will see codeshares between the two airlines extended, giving one-stop access for EGYPTAIR travellers to more of Etihad’s network in addition to several destinations in Asia and Australia that already exist. Equally it gives Etihad customers seamless access to further destinations on EGYPTAIR Network, …
Read More »Emirates and Condor sign codeshare agreement
Emirates and Condor have signed a reciprocal codeshare partnership that will start from October 2024, subject to government approvals. The new agreement will offer seamless connections and expanded choices for Emirates customers connecting on Condor-operated flights via Germany to popular destinations in Majorca and the Canary Islands as well as international points in North, Central and South America and the Caribbean. The expanded partnership will see Condor place their marketing code “DE” on Emirates-operated flights beyond Dubai to some of the most attractive global tourism hotspots, offering new travel options for Condor customers to many unique destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The codeshare activation coincides with Condor’s Berlin-Dubai route launch this October. The agreement was signed by Adnan Kazim, Emirates Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, and Peter Gerber, CEO of Condor, at the IATA Annual General Meeting in Dubai. The signing ceremony was also attended by members of each airline’s executive management teams. Adnan Kazim commented: “We are pleased to further strengthen our partnership with Condor, one of the most popular leisure airlines in Germany, to offer their customers greater access and strong connection opportunities to unique destinations in our network, complemented by Emirates’ signature in-flight service and hospitality throughout their journey from Dubai. Emirates currently has commercial cooperation agreements in place with 161 interline, codeshare and intermodal partners expanding its network reach to over 1650 cities.” Peter Gerber, said: “To partner up with Emirates, one of the world’s leading airlines, is an important strategic milestone for Condor and our customers. We are happy to offer seamless and even better connectivity by intensifying our existing interline partnership to a codeshare. Our guests will …
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