The Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Executive Council of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb minister added that Saudi Arabia successfully welcomed over 27 million international tourists in 2023, highlighting ongoing efforts to develop plans and strategies to host more than 70 million international tourists by 2030. Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Executive Council of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb, led the Saudi delegation participating in the UN General Assembly Sustainability Week held at the UN headquarters in New York City. UNGA President Dennis Francis and UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili attended the event. According to SPA, during the opening session, the minister highlighted the Kingdom’s efforts over the past two years, serving as the Chair of the Executive Council of the UNWTO, to enhance the representation of the travel and tourism sector in international forums. Al-Khateeb also indicated that this support has contributed to launching initiatives in collaboration with Saudi Arabia, such as the Best Tourism Villages award, the Tourism Open Minds initiative, and the formation of a team to redesign the future of tourism. Moreover, he noted that Saudi Arabia’s efforts have led to the inclusion of the tourism sector in the agenda of the UNGA Sustainability Week. He emphasized that under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, and HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom has become one of the most promising and attractive tourist destinations globally. He noted that the Kingdom topped the UNWTO’s list of major tourist destinations in terms …

Al Mal Real Estate Developments announced the launch of a new hospitality project Ushuaia in Experienced Hotels & Residences on Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island managed by Palladium Hotels Group. The luxury hotel and residential development features more than 422 hotel rooms and fully equipped residential units with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Hotel and residential facilities include a distinctive beach club, bars, fine dining, as well as skyline pools near Wynn Resort. Al Mal Real Estate Development has appointed Palladium Hotels Group to manage its new project on Al Marjan Island, which consists of two divisions, The Inn Exposed Al Marjan Island and The In Experienced Al Murjan Residences, within the portfolio of the renowned Ushuaia in Experienced Hotels & Residences. The well-known Spanish hotel operator has over 50 years of experience in the hospitality industry, managing more than 40 hotels in seven countries under the name of 9 different brands. Founded in 2011 on the island of Ibiza, Ushuaia in Experienced Hotels & Residences is distinguished by its luxury entrepreneurial projects, providing guests with unparalleled exclusive experiences and services, including the unique harmony of music and entertainment. Comprising two hotels and the world-famous Ibiza Club, the project in Ibiza is set to join the brand’s portfolio as part of the project at the end of the 2024 season, and the new luxury hotel features exquisite garden design, state-of-the-art technology, VIP services, diverse culinary experiences, as well as world-class musical entertainment experiences. Al Mal Developments will bring the iconic Ushuaia in Experienced Hotels & Residences brand concept to Al Marjan Island with its recently launched collection, The In Experienced Hotels & Residences, to enhance the region’s hospitality …

UAE-headquartered Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) started its 20th anniversary year on a high note, reporting robust Q1 results across all key performance indicators. Exceeding expectations, total hotel revenues for Q1 2024 jumped to US$649 million, up 17% compared to Q1 2023, while total room nights picked up 20% and the Average Daily Rate (ADR) across its portfolio of 800 hotels nudged up 2%. The GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme continued to grow in popularity, with new enrolments increasing 28% in the first three months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. At the same time, redemptions of the programme’s rewards currency, DISCOVERY Dollars (D$), rocketed 109% year-on-year, led by members based in Spain, Singapore and China respectively. Further underlining the success, the total cross-brand revenue, driven by members staying in a different brand to where they enrolled, increased 32% to $86.2 million in Q1, with hotel brands benefiting the most including Anantara, Kempinski, Pan Pacific and PARKROYAL. Since launching just over two years ago, D$206 million have been issued to GHA DISCOVERY members, and with D$1 equal to US$1, which has created a stimulus for travel within the alliance, and has helped drive more direct bookings for hotels, which are up 40% on GHA channels over 2023. Nearly two-thirds of those direct bookings are now made on the GHA DISCOVERY app. Q1 2024 also demonstrated some key market and member trends: International stays made by the 26 million GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme members dominate: 68% of hotel room revenues were generated by international stays, led by properties in the Maldives (99% of revenue from international stays), Thailand (94%) and Hong Kong (86%). US and UK members highly influential: 72% …

Choice Hotels EMEA announced the launch of its global agreement with Miles&Smiles, the frequent flyer program of Turkish Airlines, unlocking an array of new rewards for over 63 million Choice Privileges members worldwide. This initiative empowers Choice Privileges members to seamlessly convert their earned points into Miles&Smiles Miles, in 1,000 points increments starting at 5,000 points, at a ratio of 5 points to 1 Mile. Frequent flyers can redeem their Miles for award tickets from Turkish Airlines and its partner carriers, as well as for cabin upgrades and extra baggage allowances. In addition, members shopping via Turkish Airlines’ online shopping platform shopandmiles.com can use their Miles to purchase products and services from the airline’s wide array of program partners. Commenting on the new partnership, Nick Bosworth – Director of Marketing, Brand and Loyalty at Choice Hotels EMEA – said: “Our Choice Privileges program has long been celebrated for providing members with a quick and easy path to earning and utilising points for rewards they truly care about. Today, we are excited to enhance our reward options by introducing Miles&Smiles, offering our members an opportunity to turn their points into unforgettable travel experiences with Turkish Airlines.” Choice Privileges members can earn points for their point-eligible stays at over 7,000 hotels worldwide. These include participating Cambria®, Clarion®, Clarion Pointe®, Comfort®, Econo Lodge®, Everhome®, MainStay Suites®, Quality®, Rodeway Inn®, Sleep Inn®, Suburban Studios®, and Ascend Hotel Collection® properties in Europe, the Middle East, North and South America, the Caribbean, and Asia. In the Americas, members can also accumulate points at Radisson Individuals®, Radisson Collection®, Radisson Blu®, Radisson, Radisson RED®, Park Plaza®, Park Inn by Radisson®, and Country Inn & Suites® by Radisson properties.*  

Louvre Abu Dhabi has welcomed more than 1.2 million visitors in 2023 following a series of exhibitions that complemented the museum’s permanent collection.  International visitors represented 72 per cent of footfall, with the majority coming from key growth markets including Russia, India, France, the US, China, Germany, Italy, Kazakhstan and the UK. The remaining 28 per cent of visitors were UAE residents. The museum also hosted visits by more than 500 officials and dignitaries, including Heads of State, ministers, ambassadors, internationally recognised artists and world-renowned celebrities. The museum also witnessed an increased number of visitors to the Children’s Museum and greater engagement with its school and university programmes. His Excellency Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “Louvre Abu Dhabi was established as part of our duty to deliver exceptional cultural institutions and experiences for all residents and visitors to the emirate. We are proud to see the impact that this museum has had in its six years of operation, with continually increasing visitor numbers reflecting the strength of its collection, special exhibitions, and community programmes.” Manuel Rabaté, Director at Louvre Abu Dhabi, said: “It is inspiring to witness such growth in visitation, a testament to how Louvre Abu Dhabi is showcasing Abu Dhabi’s rich and diverse cultural landscape. Our museum weaves together the power of collaboration and intercultural dialogue, offering our visitors a glimpse into diverse civilisations and artistic traditions. The interest from our visitors, reflected in the numbers achieved, combined with our unique storytelling, showcases our commitment to excellence in the global cultural landscape.” 2023 saw the opening of five exhibitions at Louvre Abu Dhabi, including Bollywood Superstars: A …

KlasJet has entered a contract with Marabu Airlines. The agreement, spanning from April to November, will see KlasJet leasing two Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The aircraft will be utilized for flights from Munich Airport (MUC) to the most popular summer holiday destinations, building on the success of their ad-hoc collaborations from the previous summer. Augustinas Riskus, Deputy Chief Commercial Officer at KlasJet, shared his thoughts on the partnership: “After a series of successful collaborations with Marabu Airlines last summer, we are excited to take this partnership to the next level, this long-term contract is a natural progression of our relationship. We look forward to continuing to support Marabu Airlines in providing exceptional travel experiences to their clientele.” Axel Schefe, CEO at Marabu Airlines, also commented on the evolving partnership: “The transition from spontaneous agreements to a long-term partnership with KlasJet reflects our confidence in their ability to meet our needs and exceed expectations. Our experience working together has set a solid foundation for this collaboration, enabling us to offer even more quality and reliable services to our passengers. We are pleased to solidify our relationship with KlasJet and anticipate a productive cooperation that will benefit our valued passengers.” Currently, KlasJet operates a 14-aircraft fleet consisting of 5 Classic Boeing 737 and 1 BBJ Boeing 737 with capacities ranging from 23 to 68 seats, and 8 Boeing 737-800 NG with a capacity of 186 or 189 passengers for ACMI leasing. KlasJet is part of the Avia Solutions Group family, the world’s largest ACMI providers (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance), operating a fleet of 212 aircraft. The group also provides a range of aviation services including, MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), pilot and …

Dubai Parks and Resorts has launched its new website with a focus on enhancing the customer experience. With a unique, streamlined, easy-to-use interface, guests can effortlessly navigate the website to discover the various attractions, accommodations, and dining options available at the destination. Recognizing the increasing use of mobile devices for planning and bookings, the website is fully optimized for smartphone, tablet and desktop access to ensure a seamless and responsive experience. The new simplified booking journey makes it easier for guests to plan their visit and purchase tickets with just a few clicks at Dubai Parks™ and Resorts, home to MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, LEGOLAND® Dubai Theme Park, LEGOLAND® Water Park, LEGO® themed LEGOLAND® Hotel, LAPITA™ Hotel, Autograph Collection, RIVERLAND™ Dubai, and the upcoming Real Madrid World theme park. The launch of the new website aligns with the park’s commitment to enhancing guest experience and reflects Dubai Parks™ and Resorts’ dedication to innovation and customer service excellence.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is hosting a three-day Umrah and Ziyarah Forum in Madinah starting April 22nd. The forum will bring together government officials, travel agencies, pilgrimage companies, and businesses from various sectors like healthcare, transportation, and technology. This prestigious event, held under the patronage of the Governor Prince Salman bin Sultan Al Saud, will take place at the King Salman International Convention Center. The forum is a key part of Saudi Vision 2030, showcasing the country’s commitment to improving the experience of Muslim pilgrims (Umrah performers) and visitors (Ziyarah) coming from all over the world. Attendees can expect lively discussions about new ideas and projects to enhance the pilgrimage journey. There will also be an exhibition featuring innovative products and services from participating companies. The Ministry itself is expected to unveil exciting new initiatives and partnerships designed to revolutionize travel to Makkah, Madinah, and other important religious sites. This isn’t just a local event – it’s a global one! The Umrah and Ziyarah Forum reflects Saudi Arabia’s dedication to making the pilgrimage a truly enriching and unforgettable experience, aligned with the goals of the Pilgrim Experience Program under Saudi Vision 2030. Organizers aim to create a welcoming and spiritually uplifting experience that meets the highest international standards. The forum will be a meeting point for decision-makers, industry experts, and investors, fostering collaboration between local and international organizations. To learn more about the forum, including the agenda and how to participate, visit umrah-ziyarah.com

The Royal Mansour Casablanca marks the rebirth of a legendary palace from the 1950s, a meeting place for all the world’s celebrities, the powerful and the talented. 149 rooms, suites, and private apartments, 3 restaurants including one on the 23rd floor with a 360° view over the city and the ocean, fitness and spa areas on two floors, a conference centre and a ballroom. “This new hotel in Casablanca has its own personality, consistent with the identity of the city. As in Marrakech, the Royal Mansour signature is here: you will find the excellence of service, discretion and confidentiality so dear to our guests. And all in an exceptional setting firmly rooted in its destination.” – says Jean-Claude Messant, General Manager of the Royal Mansour Collection. …A new story begins, the legend continues. In Marrakesh, the Royal Mansour has become the signature of an exceptional art of living. Unique. Unsurpassed and unrivalled. This unique vision of hotel excellence is now expressed in a second address, in the heart of Morocco’s most vibrant city, Casablanca. With utmost respect for the memory of a thousand-year-old city, preservation of a priceless architectural heritage…Above all, the Royal Mansour Casablanca is part of the continuity of a rich history, breathing new life into a special place in the city and in the hearts of the people of Casablanca. 70 years after the inauguration of Casablanca’s first 5-star hotel, the Royal Mansour has faithfully resumed all the codes of the modernist architecture of the 1950s, the volumes of the original patio, overflowing with greener, refined furniture and the majestic staircase have been reinterpreted. While the traditions are kept alive, all the most rigorous construction standards are respected, …

The FTI GROUP  announces that an agreement has been reached which concludes the process to strengthen the capital and restructure the shareholder base of the Company originally launched in September 2023. Under the terms of the Agreement, FTI will receive new capital of € 125 million to support its next phase of growth and fund digital transformation. A consortium led by Certares, an investment firm specialized in the travel and tourism sector, with capital provided by co-investors (the “Consortium”), has signed an agreement on the proposed acquisition and funding and will assume control.  The current shareholder has accepted to provide financial support and further investment. The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and other condition precedents as are typical for transactions of this type. Karl Markgraf, CEO of the FTI GROUP, stated: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with the Certares-led Consortium. Certares is a leading investor in the global travel and tourism sector. With support from Certares and its extensive experience in the sector and capital provided by the Consortium, FTI is uniquely positioned for future growth and profitability which benefits all the stakeholders, including our customers, commercial partners and employees. We are committed to start our next chapter of success and to further consolidate our position as a leading player in the German and European tourism sector.”