Editor’s Pick

Malta voted 2nd best at Diver awards
The three islands that make up the Maltese Archipelago – Malta, the largest; Gozo, the mythical isle of Calypso; and tiny Comino, famous for its Blue Lagoon – form a very special diving si...

Japan National Tourism promote luxury, authenticity and seasons
Japan National Tourism Organization to promote luxury, authenticity and affirms commitment to UAE with new Dubai office opening before EXPO 2020 Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) will be maki...

Rove Hotels strengthens UAE portfolio
Rove Hotels has announced that it has reached a landmark first hotel management agreement in the UAE, with Mada’in Properties PJSC, to operate Rove Mina Seyahi.
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TAAI partners with TPConnects for TAAI-Connect initiative
The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) has partnered with TPConnects to roll out its ‘Digital Travel India’ initiative - digitally empowering travel agents to compete in the global market p...

Emirates’ one-off A380 touchdown in Beirut
Emirates A380 touched down in Beirut for a historic one-off service to Rafic Al Hariri International Airport. The service contributed to an aviation milestone for Lebanon and its hub airport. The land...

Park Inn by Radisson opens two hotels in Saudi Arabia
Park Inn by Radisson announced the opening of two new hotels in Saudi Arabia - Park Inn by Radisson Hotel and Apartments Dammam Industrial City and Park Inn by Radisson Jubail Industrial City. ...

Hotels to spend AED2.45 million by 2022
The average 300-room hotel in Dubai will be faced with a bill for AED2.45 million overcoming five years, as bandwidth capability is multiplied to meet rising guest demand as per figures calculated by ...

Technology advancements at Dollar
Dollar has announced implementation of innovative concepts to enhance customer experience and satisfaction. At the forthcoming Arabian Travel Market, the Company will put the spotlight on paperless ca...

Emirates boosts connectivity to Prague
Emirates announced it will add a second daily flight between Dubai and Prague, after steadily growing passenger numbers on the route during eight years since launch of operations in July 2010.
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Etihad Airways deploys Boeing 787 for Geneva
Etihad Airways launched its flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the Abu Dhabi – Geneva route beginning with the summer schedule. Geneva is the second Swiss destination after Zurich served by Etihad Ai...

AVANI Hotels partners with Al Fahim for Dubai property
AVANI Hotels & Resorts announced a new addition to its growing pipeline with the signing of AVANI Hotel Suites & Branded Residences currently being developed in Dubai by ALFAHIM.
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Mövenpick Hotels prepares for new global openings
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is gearing up for a year of significant portfolio expansion as it forges ahead with plans to open 11 new properties in nine countries by end of 2018.
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RAKTDA announces phase two of World’s Longest Zipline
The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) announced that in response to visitor demand for the world’s longest zipline, they will open phase two to visitors in Q3 of 2018. ...

Etihad Aviation Training re-launched in Abu Dhabi
Etihad Aviation Training, part of Etihad Aviation Group, has re-launched its aviation training organisation with the aim of becoming a comprehensive aviation training facility in the world.
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Riyadh Travel Fair 2018 looks to attract over 30,000 visitors
Riyadh Travel Fair (RTF) 2018 will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year from 10-13 April 2018. The four-day fair is scheduled to be held at Al Faisaliah Hotel in Riyadh ...

Paris to get its Bvlgari hotel
Bvlgari Hotels and Resorts announced the agreement for a new hotel in Paris, scheduled to open in 2020. This new opening will follow Beijing and Dubai in 2017, Shanghai in 2018 and Moscow in 2020.
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Rehlat partners with Sabre
Rehlat has renewed a long-term agreement with Sabre Corporation to continue using its technology to power its online platform.
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Park Inn by Radisson expands in Saudi Arabia
Park Inn by Radisson will soon open its first hotel in Najran, Saudi Arabia. The 113-room hotel is located on King Saud Road in the Al Fahad District. This opening takes the group's Saudi portfolio to...

Etihad Airways launches flights to Baku
Etihad Airways launched its first-ever scheduled flights linking Abu Dhabi and Baku. The route will be operated three times a week using a 136-seat Airbus A320, configured with 16 seats in Business C...

Jumeirah to operate Al Wathba Desert Resort
Jumeirah announced an agreement with Abu Dhabi United Hospitality LLC to develop Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort in Abu Dhabi. The property expected to welcome guests from September 2018.
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Visit Orlando unveils new content for online TA training
Visit Orlando has unveiled new content for its Orlando Travel Academy - (orlandotravelacademy.com). Travel agents worldwide have an improved online training resource to help boost their knowledge and ...

Marriott reinforces its commitment to KSA
Marriott International has reinforced its commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 at the inaugural Saudi Arabia Hotel Investment Conference (SHIC) 2018. Saudi Arabia represents the company’s second largest ...

UAE and KSA continue to lead GCC luxury hospitality market
The UAE will continue to lead the GCC’s luxury hospitality segment to 2022, with 73% of existing luxury hotel stock and 61% of the region’s current luxury pipeline located in the country, accordin...

Saudi tourism to benefit from mid-market hotels: Awadalla
According to new research by Colliers International, recent reforms in Saudi Arabia – and widespread investment in the Kingdom’s burgeoning tourism industry – will drive growth in the mid-market...

Jeddah gets a taste of Sri Lanka
Jeddah played host to Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s promotional roadshow in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The roadshow held at Radisson Blu witnessed a delegation of Sri Lanka Tourism official...

Walt Disney Parks & Resorts showcase new attractions
Walt Disney Parks & Resorts announced several new attractions across Disneyland Paris, Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney World.
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FORM Hotel Dubai prepares for launch
FORM Hotel Dubai is preparing for its launch next month, when Smartotels Hospitality International Limited opens its flagship property. The new technology-driven design concept hotel will be showcased...

Beirut gets its first Emirates A380
Emirates will operate for the first-time in Beirut’s Rafic Al Hariri International Airport’s history a special one-off A380 service on 29 March. The airline is working with the airport to test ope...

Major international tourism drive by UK’s three largest cities
The UK’s three largest cities - London, Manchester and Birmingham - have formed an alliance to jointly promote the best of English tourism in three of the world’s fastest growing markets: China, I...

Travelport showcases new products
Travelport unveiled its product roadmap to extend its content offering to airline customers using the International Air Transport Association (IATA) New Distribution Capability (NDC) standard. This ...

Gevora Hotel tagged World’s Tallest Hotel
Gevora Hotel was inaugurated in the presence of the owners and dignitaries along with an official recognition and the title of the Tallest Hotel in the World from the Guinness World of Records.
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Emirates to connect Santiago de Chile via Sao Paulo
Effective 5 July 2018, Emirates will launch a new, five times a week, service from Dubai to Santiago International Airport, via Sao Paulo.
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Etihad Airways introduces new baggage policy
Etihad Airways has introduced a new baggage policy tailored to varying customer requirements in the international markets it serves.
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Ascott targets to double its global portfolio by 2023
The Ascott Limited is ramping up its expansion with a target to double its portfolio to 160,000 units globally by 2023.
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Maldives Tourism welcomes its first visitor for 2018
Maldives tourism officials rung in the New Year welcoming the destination’s first visitor of 2018. ...

Millennium Hotels and Resorts to open Copthorne Kuwait City
Millennium Hotels and Resorts in its expansion strategy has announced the takeover of a 169-key property in Kuwait. The property is scheduled to open in February 2018 and will be operated as Copthorne...

DTCM joins forces with Huawei CBG
Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and Huawei Consumer Business Group (CBG) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to unite efforts in positioning Dubai as a destination...

Turkish Airlines charts out 2018 targets
Post wrapping up a successful 2017, Turkish Airlines has now set its targets for 2018 as the carrier will move its hub to the third airport of Istanbul.
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flyadeal to add Abha in February 2018
flyadeal will soon add Abha to its growing route network. The new destination will be the airline’s fifth destination from Jeddah and third from Riyadh...

IntercityHotel expands into Saudi Arabia
The IntercityHotel brand is continuing its expansion on the Arabian Peninsula. The IntercityHotel Riyadh Malaz will open for business before end of the year...

Jumeirah Group launches Zabeel House by JumeirahTM
Jumeirah Group announced the launch of Zabeel House by Jumeirah. This second brand from Jumeirah Group, which already operates the Stay Different brand...

Tourism from China to GCC markets to grow by 2021
Recent statistics released by Colliers International reported that Chinese arrivals to the GCC will increase 21% to 2021, rising to 2.5 million visitors annually. ...

GSHA expects continued Indian visitors influx to Dubai
Golden Sands Hotel Apartments (GSHA) witnessed an increase of 10% in visitor’s arrival from India in 2017 and is expecting to double the growth this year.
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Punctuality on the cards for Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways posted its best operational on-time performance (OTP) results since 2009. In 2017, the airline recorded network punctuality of 82% for flight departures and 86% for arrivals.
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RAKTDA targets Nordic markets
The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has increased its focus on the Nordic markets. ...

Aloft Palm Jumeirah debuts in Dubai
Marriott International announced the opening of the design-led Aloft Palm Jumeirah. This is the first Aloft to open in Dubai.Â
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Emirates boosts A380 fleet with US$ 16 billion deal
Emirates announced a US$ 16 billion (AED 58.7 billion) deal for 36 additional Airbus A380 aircraft, with 20 firm orders and 16 options. ...

Turkish Airlines’ offers mobile app discount
Turkish Airlines will offer a 15% discount on its all domestic and international flights for passengers booking through their mobile app.
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Minor Hotels forays into Lebanon
Minor Hotels will debut its Oaks brand in Lebanon later this year. The group signed a management agreement with Allied Investment Group to operate Oaks Beirut.
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Safeen Tourism takes on Celebrity Cruises
Safeen Tourism which has been representing Royal Caribbean International and Azamara Club Cruises will add Celebrity Cruises to its portfolio. ...

Turkish Airlines close 2017 with a 9.3% growth
Turkish Airlines closed the last year on a successful note with an increase in the number of passengers at 9.3% and carried 68.6 million passengers compared to 2016....

4th edition of Shop Bahrain gets underway
The fourth edition of the Bahrain Shopping Festival ‘Shop Bahrain’ got underway under the patronage of the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, HE Zayed Bin Rashid Al Zayani.
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Emirates rolls out its new marketing campaign
Emirates launched its new marketing campaign to promote travel on its economy class. ...

Global Village count crosses more than 2.4 million guests
Global Village announced a new record of more than 2.4 million guest entries over the two-month period since its opening on 1 November 2017. ...

Jumeirah Group to enter new markets in 2018
Jumeirah Group announced widespread expansion plans for 2018 which will see the brand enter three new markets and open further properties in the UAE and China.Â
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Philippine DOT charts 11.54% increase in tourists
Tourist arrivals in the Philippines grew by almost 12% in the first 10 months of this year compared to 2016, the Department of Tourism (DOT) reported.
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Ministry of Tourism of Oman launches new promotional portal
The Ministry of Tourism launched a new promotional website portal – www.experienceoman.om - which serves as a one-stop-shop for all Oman Tourism-related information.
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Condor Airlines commences winter service to KL in 2018
Malaysia Airports and Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Tourism Malaysia) announced that Condor Airlines, from Germany, will soon commence its Frankfurt-Kuala Lumpur route during the Northern Winter i...

flydubai increases its Europe connectivity
flydubai has announced the launch of two new European routes for next year. The Krakow route will commence on 8 April 2018 and flights to Catania will start on 13 June 2018. ...

Etihad Airways boosts Maldives frequency for summer 2018
Etihad Airways has added four additional weekly flights on the Abu Dhabi – Malé route, taking frequency to the Maldives to 11 services a week from June 2018.
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Air Arabia expands in Africa
Air Arabia announced the addition of Asmara as its first destination in Eritrea, starting from 10 December 2017.
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Basma Group, ARADA partner with Minor Hotels
Basma Group and ARADA have inked a management agreement with Minor Hotels to launch the Anantara Sharjah Resort....

Amadeus inks partnership with 15 MENA carriers
15 airlines from the Middle East & North Africa have entered into a 10-year framework agreement with Amadeus for distribution services, negotiated and led by the Arab Air Carriers Association (AACO)...

Travel Counsellors UAE launches ‘New Route to Entry’
Travel Counsellors UAE launched a new ‘route to entry’ for industry professionals looking to establish their own home-based travel business....

Indian outbound to GCC expected to increase by 2021
Around nine million Indians are expected to travel to the GCC by 2021, according to latest figures from Colliers International.
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Emaar Hospitality Group launches Apple Pay
Emaar Hospitality Group launched the addition of Apple Pay, underlining the organisation’s focus on leveraging the latest in digital technology. The new service is available for guests across all th...

Ajman welcomes the first Radisson Blu
The first Radisson Blu hotel opened its doors for business in Ajman. The new property offers seven diverse restaurants and bars to experience.
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No-smoking policy at Coral Beach Resort Sharjah
The Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, managed by HMH – Hospitality Management Holding rolled-out a non-smoking policy to promote health and well-being.
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Etihad Airways celebrates a decade of service to Nepal
Etihad Airways is celebrating 10 years of scheduled flights to Nepal. The airline recognised key stakeholders in the decade-long partnership.
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Emirates’ Boeing 777 First Class to debut in Europe
Emirates confirmed that its first two Boeing 777-300ER aircraft fitted with its soon-to-launch First Class product will operate from Dubai to Belgian and Swiss destinations starting from 1 December 20...

Meeting Point Emirates makes Germany more accessible
Meeting Point Emirates welcomed its first arrivals from Leipzig to Al Maktoum Airport (DWC). This is in line with its distinctive charter program which is the first and only service....

International Tourism on the rise
Demand for international tourism remained strong during the Northern Hemisphere summer peak season. International tourist arrivals in July and August totalled over 300 million for the first-time ever ...

Al Tayer appointed GSA for ERM Tours and Safaris
Al Tayer Travel Agency has been appointed the exclusive general sales agent (GSA) in GCC for ERM Tours & Safaris in South and East Africa.
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Emirates, flydubai announce new code-share destinations
Emirates along with flydubai announced 16 additional destinations to which Emirates’ passengers will be able travel on a single ticket. The new, expanded network now includes destinations such as Za...

Etihad Airways takes on Apple Pay
Etihad Airways is now providing its customers Apple Pay. Available on the Etihad Airways mobile app, Apple Pay allows customers to pay securely with just a touch of a finger....

Swiss-Belhotel International continues KSA expansion
Swiss-Belhotel International (SBI) has signed the Swiss-Belhotel and Suites Jazan. The announcement was made by Laurent A Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle Eas...

Cleartrip enables Apple Pay
Cleartrip announced the integration of Apple Pay on its mobile application. With the launch of Apple’s digital wallet in the UAE, Cleartrip customers can now have a quicker and safer way to check ou...

Tourism Malaysia, Al-Rais Travel launch travel packages
Malaysian Ambassador to the UAE HE Syed Mohd Hasrin officially launched ‘Explore & Discover Malaysia’ packages in cooperation with Al–Rais Travel in Dubai...

Hyatt Riyadh Olaya paves the way for future openings in KSA
The Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya has welcomed a high number of guests since its opening in January 2017. Developed by Mohammed A Al-Swailem Co for commercial investment, Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya is th...

Etihad Airways trials hand baggage ‘Deal Fare’
Etihad Airways is trialing a new hand baggage only ‘Deal Fare’ on two routes this winter season. As per the deal, the airline is allowing travellers to purchase lower fares in economy class, if no...

Sri Lanka targets GCC tourists with regional roadshows
The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau will kick off the promotional roadshow that will witness a delegation of Sri Lanka Tourism officials, as well as hoteliers and tourism stakeholders, visit the ci...

Sabre inks agreement with ITL World
ITL World has signed a new agreement with Sabre Corporation. Under the new agreement, Sabre’s technology will enable the TMC to continue fuelling its global expansion strategy.Â
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Copthorne Hotel Dubai begins refurbishment
Copthorne Hotel Dubai has begun enhancement work at the Horizon Health Club and the Gazebo Terrace. The AED one million refurbishment programme will transform the gym and health club into a modern fac...

Oman prepares for second UNWTO/UNESCO World Conference
The Sultanate of Oman is gearing up to host the second UNWTO/UNESCO World Conference on Tourism and Culture on the 11-12 December 2017 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre.
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Meliá Hotels expands Argentina presence
Melia Hotels International announced the opening of the Meliá Iguazu, the only hotel located in the heart of Iguazu National Park in Argentina. The hotel is the only hotel with views of the famous â€...

SalamAir expands Dubai operations
SalamAir commenced operations with daily flights between Oman and Dubai International Airport. The new route will complement the airline’s current flight to Al Maktoum International Airport until ...

Golden Sands apartments unveils revamped website
Golden Sands Hotel Apartments recently unveiled its redesigned website www.goldensandsdubai.com. The new user-friendly website features an upgraded design, booking engine and much more.
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Marriott International boosts Africa expansion
Marriott International has announced further expansion plans in Africa with seven new hotel signings. The company is targeting over 200 hotels with 37,000 rooms open or in the pipeline by 2022...

Al Geziry Consultancy to represent Banyan Tree Hotels
The Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has appointed Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy to conduct the group’s public relations activities within the Arabian Gulf countries of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Sau...

Mövenpick Hotels expands into Abidjan
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has announced it’s Africa expansion strategy with construction work on the 160-key Mövenpick Hotel Abidjan now underway.
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Jordan Tourism puts MICE in focus
The Jordan Inbound Tour Operators Association (JITOA) in partnership with the Jordan Tourism Board and Royal Jordanian Airlines hosted its first MICE workshop in Dubai ...

Le Méridien Hub unveiled
Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, the latest property within the Marriott portfolio underwent an extensive renovation plan. The property will showcase `Le Meriden Hub'. ...

Emaar Hospitality implements Oracle OPERA across Rove Hotels
Emaar Hospitality Group is undergoing an organisation-wide digital transformation with the implementation of Oracle OPERA across its Rove Hotels. ...

Laurent puts the spotlight on Dubai’s mid-market sector
Laurent A Voivenel of Swiss-Belhotel International highlights the booming mid-market in Dubai and its ongoing effect on four-star and five-star operators at the Hotel Show in Dubai...

GCAA partners with Indra
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and Spanish company Indra Sistemas (Indra) signed a contract to develop a new air traffic management system for Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Centre.
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MEVP invests in Wego
Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP) has invested in Wego, in exchange for an equity ownership. The company is investing in Wego as part of the company’s latest equity round alongside MBC Group (Midd...

marhaba expands to Australia
marhaba has opened its first airport lounge in Melbourne, Australia. The lounge features seating for 200 guests, a relaxation quiet zone, shower facilities and buffet cuisine. Â
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Emaar showcases the ‘Address Harbour Point’
Emaar Hospitality Group has highlighted the locational advantage of its Address Harbour Point project. The new mega-development is in the heart of Dubai Creek Harbour and just 10 minutes from Dubai In...

GCAA launches a performance measurement e-system
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) launched an e-system for performance measurement, supporting decision-making, enhancing customer service, and providing information through smart devices....

Ezeego1 extends global B2B reach to MEA
Ezeego1 has forayed into the Middle East market with an aim to expand its global footprint in the B2B travel space. ...

VFS Global opens first Chinese Visa Application Service centre
The first-ever ‘Chinese Visa Application Service Center’ in the Middle East was launched at WAFI Mall in Dubai....

Sabre charts out key future trends
Sabre Corporation released its latest technology forecast, Sabre Labs’ 2017 Radar Report. The report evaluates nine key technologies with an outsized impact on the travel landscape...

Middle East Airlines extends partnership with Amadeus
Middle East Airlines has extended its partnership with Amadeus choosing to boost its services by employing innovations across the business operations.
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Emirates boosts services to Australia
Emirates is set to introduce a fourth daily service from Dubai to Sydney from 25 March 2018, complementing its existing three daily A380 services....

MakeMyTrip partners with Travelport
MakeMyTrip has signed an agreement with Travelport’s distributor for India - InterGlobe Technology Quotient (ITQ), for the use of Travelport’s travel commerce platform.
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CWT highlights study on business travellers
Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) conducted a new study on business travellers, wherein they are bringing more devices, and feel more productive as they are on the road conducting business.
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Qantas to increase capacity of Airbus A380 fleet
Qantas unveiled plans to increase the capacity of its 12 Airbus A380s. The multi-million dollar upgrade will see a change in seat mix on the super jumbos to meet increased customer demand for premium ...

flyadeal prepares for launch with first aircraft delivery
flyadeal, the newly established low-fare airline in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), has taken delivery of its first aircraft and the first of eight Airbus A320ceos. ...

flydubai performance dips for H1 2017
The financial results announced for flydubai’s half-year results for 2017 state that the airline witnessed a dip of AED 142.5 million (US$ 38.8 million) for the period ending 30 June 2017....

Melbourne titled seventh time ‘world’s most liveable city’
Melbourne’s has been titled ‘world’s most liveable city’ for the seventh year by the Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) annual Liveability Index...

Emaar Hospitality puts the spotlight on guest experiences
Emaar Hospitality Group has launched an innovative service culture programme. The new service culture programme is based on ‘Reverse Thinking’ approach...

Emirates to deploy extra flights for Hajj season
Emirates will be operating extra flights to Jeddah to help facilitate travel for thousands of pilgrims this year heading to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Hajj
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Dubai welcomes world’s largest TRYP by Wyndham
Wyndham Hotel Group announced the opening of the world’s largest TRYP by Wyndham Dubai at Al Thanayah – 1, Barsha Heights in Dubai
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Emirates, European Tour renew partnership
Emirates and the European Tour renewed their existing European Tour Agreement for four years until 2021. The new deal includes Emirates becoming an official partner of The 2018 Ryder Cup...

Address Fashion Avenue project gets underway
Emaar Hospitality Group announced the rollout of its upcoming hotel project – the signature Address Fashion Avenue. The new property will offer 167-room and only 78 high-end residences ...

Mohammed bin Rashid tours Airbus Plant in Hamburg
Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum tours the Airbus Plant in Hamburg.
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Haneda Airport welcomes Star Wars ANA kids lounge
Japan's All Nippon Airways (ANA) opened an airport lounge designed for children at Haneda Airport in Tokyo. The Star Wars ANA kids lounge is located inside the ANA Lounge in Terminal 2.
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Ethiopian Airlines refurbishes Boeing 767-300ER fleet
Ethiopian Airlines is refurbishing its Boeing 767-300ER fleet. As part of the refurbishment, the aircraft are fitted with full flat-bed seats in Cloud Nine...

GACA inks agreement with Uber
The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has entered into an agreement with Uber for dedicated Uber pick-up and drop-off locations. ...

Emirates deploys one-off A380 to Colombo
Emirates deployed a one-off A380 aircraft on its SriLanka route. The aircraft landed at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) Katunayake helping Sri Lanka and the airport achieve an aviation milest...

Air Arabia Q2 performance touches AED 158 million profit
Air Arabia posted strong financial results for Q2 of 2017. The results exceeded analysts’ expectations and registered a net profit of AED 158 million, an increase of 21%
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Emirates rolls out special Eid fares
Emirates has rolled out special fares to attract customers looking to getaway this Eid. Promotional bookings are offered to select destinations across the network.
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The rise of Activacation
Hotels.com recently released new data revealing a new wave of young travellers who are swapping beaches for action-packed, celebrity-inspired fitness getaways.
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First Central Hotel Suites goes paperless
First Central Hotel Suites has now made all its marketing material available online. The hotel aims to significantly reduce usage and wastage of paper as well as printing requirements with this campai...

Events on the rise in Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi Events Licensing System (ELS) has witnessed a 19.5% growth in total applications between Q1 and Q2.
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Cyprus eyeing increased Gulf visitors
Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) reported that the Mediterranean island is readying for a significant influx of GCC visitors during the forthcoming Eid Al Adha break.
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Etihad Airways deploys Boeing 787 on Seoul route
Etihad Airways introduced the Boeing 787-9 on its scheduled daily service from Abu Dhabi to Seoul. The two-class 787 Dreamliner service replaces the Airbus A340-600 aircraft previously operated on the...

Abu Dhabi hotels welcome over 2.25 mn guests in H1 2017
Recent statistics shared by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) stated that the emirate recorded a 30% increase in number of hotel guest arrivals this June, compared to the same mont...

Royal welcome for Ghana delegation
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive, Emirates Airline and Group welcomed a VIP delegation from Ghana.
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Sustainability tops JW Marriott Marquis Dubai agenda
The Emirates-owned JW Marriott Marquis Dubai has sustainability on its top agenda with participation in the Food Bank scheme and much more...

Etihad Airways profits dip
Etihad Airways reported net loss of US$ 1.87 billion on US$8.36 billion in revenues as one-off impairment charges and fuel hedging losses weighed against a solid performance of the core airline. ...

Etihad deploys Boeing 787 on Beirut route
Etihad Airways has deployed the Boeing 787-9 on its scheduled daily service from Abu Dhabi to Beirut. The new two-class 787-9 provides an increase of 125 seats per flight....

TCA Abu Dhabi conducts three-city US road show
Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) conducted a three-city roadshow to the United States to help create more awareness....

Emirates Group Security to host AVSEC Global Symposium
Emirates Group Security will bring together global experts in aviation security for a three day symposium on aviation security in Dubai.
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Azerbaijan Tourism on a high
Azerbaijan welcomed an overall number of 1,199,667 foreign citizens, 24.5% more people compared to 2016. The UAE and Saudi Arabia drove volumes and set the stage for a healthy first half of 2017.
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Slovenia showcase adventure activities for GCC families
Slovenian Tourist Board (STO) wants to provide its visitors with a green, active and healthy holiday destination while putting the spotlight on some new adventure activities ...

TAT to put the spotlight on Destination Thailand
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) held their annual TAT Action Plan meeting for 2018, which covers both international and domestic tourism. ...

Tajawal launches Visa Checkout in KSA
Tajawal has collaborated with VISA to provide Visa Checkouts to its customers in Saudi Arabia. This is after successful implementation across its tajawal.ae domain in January 2017.
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Colombo to welcome one-off Emirates A380
The Emirates A380 aircraft will make a one-off landing at the Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake on 14 August 2017 to celebrate the airport’s resurfaced runway.
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TCA Abu Dhabi launches global ‘Extraordinary City Story’
Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) and Manchester City Football Club have launched a new season-long campaign....

DoubleTree by Hilton opens Bay Square
Dubai welcomed another Hilton property. The DoubleTree by Hilton announced opening of the DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – Business Bay. The hotel features 238 guest rooms and suÃtes, all views of the...

Emirates expands Sudan network
Emirates announced that it will increase frequency of flights between Dubai and Khartoum from five to seven a week. The new increased frequency will commence from 8 August 2017. ...

Emirates, flydubai strengthen partnership
Emirates and flydubai announced an extensive partnership which will see both airlines join forces to offer customers unmatched travel options. ...

Rotana welcomes 225 million guests in 25 years
Rotana marked a historic milestone as the hospitality Group completes 25 years of supporting tourism and hospitality growth in the region.
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Global destinations welcomed 369 tourists from Jan-Apr 2017
Recent statistics shared by the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer state that destinations worldwide received 369 million international tourists (overnight visitors) in first four months of 2017. This is 2...

Leslie Thng takes over as new Vistara CEO
Leslie Thng has been appointed chief executive officer for Vistara by the Board of Vistara (TATA SIA Airlines Ltd) and two promoters of the company – Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines. He will su...

Etihad Holidays on expansion mode
Etihad Holidays has launched operations in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain offering a wide range of package holiday options. The move follows successful introduction of Etihad Airways’ holida...

Oman promotes mountain tourism
Oman is getting ready to welcome GCC with its naturally-blessed terrain. In this regard, the Ministry of Tourism is looking to promote the mountains - including luxury stays, hiking and exploring rura...

Emirates expands inflight Wi-Fi offering
Emirates has expanded its free inflight Wi-Fi service with rates to suit all flyers. All Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members can have free unlimited Wi-Fi during their flight, regardless of th...

Get fit at Mövenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay Aqaba
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay Aqaba has further enhanced its well being experience for guests. The hotel has an addition of a boot camp, jogging track and yoga area which complement the resort’s ...

Abu Dhabi Summer Season showcases global talent
Abu Dhabi witnessed a showcase of outstanding talents across a wide number of dance genres, at ‘Talents around the World’ which returns for this year’s edition of Abu Dhabi Summer Season....

US$ 100 million refurbishment plan for Atlantis The Palm
Atlantis announced an extensive refurbishment programme across Atlantis, The Palm. This will also include expansion with the brands second property - The Royal Atlantis Resort and Residences - also lo...

British Airways partners with The White Company
British Airways announced a partnership with luxury lifestyle brand - The White Company. The British retailer will supply bedding and amenity kits in Club World as part of the airline’s GBP 400 mill...

Brussels to get increased Emirates connectivity
Emirates will introduce an additional daily flight to Brussels, complementing the existing schedule and providing a double-daily service from 29 October 2017. The new scheduled flight will be added to...

RAK offers a view from the top
Ras Al Khaimah has launched a new observation deck close to the summit of Jebel Jais in a bid to strengthen its focus on the adventure segment. The Jebel Jais Observation Deck will boast several viewi...

Abu Dhabi to host FIFA Club World Cup mobile roadshows
Abu Dhabi will play host to two mobile roadshows celebrating the 14th edition of the FIFA Club World Cup. The road shows will take place at Bawadi Mall in Al Ain from 6-8 July 2017 and return from 3...

Emirates connects to Hanoi
Emirates commenced daily direct flights from Dubai to Hanoi saving approximately 2hrs 30mins of travel time. The new non-stop service is operated with a two-class configured Boeing 777-300ER with 42 s...

TCA Abu Dhabi welcomes French Ambassador
The French Ambassador to the UAE, HE Ludovic Pouille was welcomed by chairman and director general of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi). The meeting was held at TCA’s Abu Dhabi h...
TCA Abu Dhabi inks MoU with General Command of the Armed Forces
The Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the General Command of the UAE Armed Forces. The MoU secures co-operation and establish ele...
Overview of Abu Dhabi Summer Season 2017
This year’s Abu Dhabi Summer Season 2017 will kick off from 20 July until 20 August 2017. The month-long event will have entertaining shows and theatrical performances, themed-mall activations, prom...
Crystal Lagoons expands presence in Egypt
Crystal Lagoons has strengthened its presence in the Egypt market with the opening of its new regional office in Cairo. Patented in 190 countries worldwide, Crystal Lagoons is now involved in projects...

Etihad Airways welcomes electronic ban lift to US
Etihad Airways welcomed the decision by the US Department of Homeland Security to lift the electronic devices ban on flights between Abu Dhabi and the United States, following successful validation of...

Emirates touches down in Phnom Penh
Emirates expanded its presence in Southeast Asia with launch of a new daily linked service from Dubai to Phnom Penh in Cambodia, via Yangon in Myanmar. This new service is operated with a Boeing 777 a...

Royal Caribbean’s showcases its royal suite class
As Royal Caribbean’s latest liner, the Symphony of the Seas departs her dry dock to commence fit-out ready for her 2018 maiden voyage, the company showcases its Royal Suite Class. This is a personal...

2 mn hotel guests for Abu Dhabi
Recent statistics reported by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) state that the emirate for the period January to May, 2017 recorded nearly two million hotel guest arrivals (1,965,4...

Etihad Airways’ Dreamliner connects Beijing
The Etihad Airways Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner touched down in Beijing after its inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi. The inaugural flight was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Abu Dhabi, attended...

Celebrity Cruises showcases Eden
Celebrity Cruises has revealed a unique feature on its newest ship - Celebrity Edge - which debuts next year. Eden, is a unique venue where design is fused into every element, including cuisine served...

Etihad Airways connects to Paris with Airbus A380
Etihad Airways has introduced the Airbus A380 aircraft on one of its two daily services between Abu Dhabi and Paris Charles de Gaulle. The new service has been introduced early to meet seasonal demand...

Nice welcomes Emirates A380
The Nice Cote d’Azur International Airport welcomed the inaugural Emirates A380 service. The double-decker has replaced existing Boeing 777-300ER used on this route. This new service will bring the ...

The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel targets wellness
The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel is aiming to be the first holistic well-being resort in the Middle East. The new property is scheduled for soft launch in summer 2017 and has recently signed...

Mövenpick Hotels adds a new property in Basel
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts will open its sixth hotel in Switzerland. The five-star 264-room hotel is designed by Matteo Thun and is scheduled to open in 2019. The total room capacity will also in...

Cleartrip goes local
Cleartrip has officially launched an Arabic-language website to support its GCC market expansion efforts. The portal will provide its users in the region localized browsing and booking capability.
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Flydubai relaunches Tanzania service
flydubai announced the reaunch of flights to Kilimanjaro effective 29 October 2017. The relaunched service to the carrier’s third point in Tanzania, along with Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, will see f...

Emaar announces Rove Trade Centre
Rove Hotels unveiled its fourth hotel Rove Trade Centre which joins the portfolio of three other operational properties under Rove Hotels – Rove Downtown, Rove City Centre and Rove Healthcare City. ...

Emaar Hospitality Group, JODC bring the Address hotel to Makkah
Jabal Omar Development Company (JODC) announced the selection of Emaar Hospitality Group’s brand Address Hotels + Resorts to manage a flagship hospitality project in Makkah. This also marks the firs...

IHG inks exclusive agreement with Bukhamseen Group
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) signed an exclusive agreement with Bukhamseen Group Holding Company, a Kuwaiti business conglomerate, to build and operate IHG hotels exclusively in Kuwait.
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First graduates of ‘Dubai Way’ announced
the Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), an institution established by Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) announced the first graduates of its interactive training progr...

TCA Abu Dhabi records 1.6 million guests for Jan – Apr 2017
New figures from Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) reported that the emirate welcomed 1.6 million guest arrivals year to end of April 2017. This is a seven percent growth compared ...

HMH Hotels on growth track
Hotels operated by HMH – Hospitality Management Holding in UAE have recorded a positive year-to-date performance. The Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel recorded a 23% growth in revenue, while Coral Beach Reso...

Etihad Airways boosts A380 service to New York JFK
Etihad Airways will boost services to New York JFK with the addition of a second Airbus A380. The new aircraft will be deployed on the second daily service which means all 14 weekly flights between th...

Emirates touches down in Croatia
Emirates’ recently took off its inaugural Boeing 777-300ER flight from Dubai to touch down in Zagreb. The inaugural flight was welcomed with a water cannon salute and traditional Croatian folk dance...

Emaar Hospitality Group launches Dubai’s virtual tours
Emaar Hospitality Group has introduced 360 degree virtual tours of its hotels in Dubai. Each tour will provide all features of the hotel in details. From exteriors to interior, whether it is the lobby...

Deutsche Hospitality opens third property in Tunisia
Deutsche Hospitality signed an agreement for a new property in Tunisia. From November 2017, guests will be welcomed at the Steigenberger Hotel Palace Marhaba on the Gulf of Hammamet. The hotel chain f...

IHG expands in KSA
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced the opening of Staybridge Suites Jeddah Alandalus Mall. The property will comprise of 164 suites offering a mix of studios, one and two bedroom suites.
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Movenpick Hotels rolls out its global summer campaign
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts launched its global ‘It’s your Summer’ campaign. The campaign offers its guests discounts of up to 30% on room rates at more than 80 hotels and resorts globally....

Etihad Airways expands Boeing 787 Europe network
Etihad Airways has announced plans to boost its European Dreamliner network with deployment of Boeing 787-9 aircraft to Amsterdam and Madrid....

Emirates’ targets November for unveiling new first class
Emirates Airline will showcase its new first class product at the Dubai Air Show in November 2017. Making its debut on-board a Boeing 777-300ER, the new first class cabin will feature six private suit...

Wego list key Ramadan travel destinations
Wego.ae has examined emerging Ramadan destinations for families, couples and singles, and suggests some new and exciting destinations.
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Crystal Lagoons inks 12th Egypt project
Crystal Lagoons signed a contract with Egyptian real estate developer, Tatweer Misr, to bring beachfront living to the US$117 million Fouka Bay development in Ras Al Hekmah.
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New direct flights from Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines launched new flights from various cities in the Middle East and Germany to key Turkish destinations....

Swiss-Belhotel Intl, Omniyat inks agreement
Swiss-Belhotel International (SBI) entered into a management agreement with Omniyat Real Estate to operate two properties in Kuwait.
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Vistara welcomes first Airbus A320neo
Vistara took delivery of its first Airbus A320neo (new engine option) at Airbus Headquarters in Toulouse.
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Emirates prepares for Zagreb launch
Emirates is preparing for the launch of its scheduled daily flight between Dubai and Zagreb. ...

Hilton expands KSA portfolio
Hilton opened the doors of Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel. This is the 12th Hilton hotel in Saudi Arabia. ...

Gallery Café now open
Adliya’s stylish new complex Gallery 21 recently welcomed opening of Gallery Café, the eatery merging urban influence and local traditions. The outlet offers breakfast through to late night dining ...

Sabre revamps GetThere
Sabre Corporation is taking GetThere to the next level with the launch of a fast, design-led mobile experience. ...

Tunisia to get a new Four Seasons property
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts along with Mabrouk Group, Tunisia’s preeminent investment group, will introduce a new luxury experience with the opening of Four Seasons Hotel Tunis in late 2017. The...

Search and shop in less than three seconds
Recent studies by Google state that 40% of consumers will leave a site, if a page takes longer than three seconds to load on a mobile, with 79% unlikely to return. In line with the emerging trends, We...