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.”

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) and Alizz Islamic Bank  announced the signing of a collaboration agreement to establish a strategic financial partnership with a synergetic objective to reinforce Oman’s tourism and economic sectors through this strategic endeavour.  Development for Commercial Building No. 1 in the Business Park at Madinat Al Irfan (East). OMRAN Group, the master developer of the project, reiterated its commitment to developing the Business Park to become a vibrant destination for business and innovation, hosting the headquarters of various institutions. Dr. Hashil Al Mahrouqi, the CEO of OMRAN Group, and Ali Al Mani the CEO of Alizz Islamic Bank, delivered speeches, highlighting the synergetic objectives to reinforce Oman’s tourism and economic sectors through this strategic endeavour. Dr. Al Mahrouqi articulated, “This collaboration with Alizz Islamic Bank is a stride towards realising our vision at OMRAN Group – to transform landscapes into vibrant, sustainable environments contributing significantly to Oman’s social, economic, and environmental prosperity. The Group has a rich record of leading tourism projects and assets, and is working to stimulate investment by building strategic partnerships with investors to contribute to the creation of sustainable social and economic benefits.” Emphasising the impact of the partnership, the CEO of Alizz Islamic Bank, Ali Al Mani, remarked, “Aligning with our dedication to support projects of substantial national value, this alliance with OMRAN Group represents a crucial milestone in our journey towards contributing to Oman’s flourishing future, rooted in innovation and sustainability.”   The event, attended by industry leaders, investors, and media representatives, underscored the partnership’s shared objectives: to highlight the development’s uniqueness, elevate awareness around the Business Park, and attract investors for the enhancement of the master plan of …

TravTalk ME as media partner will be at ITB China and the ITB China Conference, China’s travel industry think tank from 27 to 29 May at Hall 1 of the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. TTME spoke with Lydia Li, Deputy General Manager ITB China to find out more about the much anticipated exhibition for the world. “ITB China is set to play a crucial role in reconnecting global travel suppliers with the resurgent Chinese market, forging a collective path forward for the industry. As Chinas premier B2B travel trade show, ITB China will once again reflect the entire travel trade spectrum, with suppliers from around the world covering Leisure Travel, MICE, Business Travel, and Travel Technology. In view of the increasing demand from buyers, MICE will gain in importance as a key topic, and more in-depth presentations and discussions will take place on stage of the ITB China Conference 2024. Furthermore, the China Inbound Tourism segment will be relaunched this year. The rising popularity of Custom-themed Travel in the Chinese market and the profound impact of Travel Technology guarantee a rich variety of content sessions, activities and awards, complemented by insights from experienced travel professionals and forward-thinking opinion leaders. “As for now, country pavilions such as Saudi-Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and Jordan will be participating at the show. Around 650 tourism companies from nearly 80 countries are expected to showcase their products and services and meet with more than 1000 pre-selected top Chinese buyers attending the event. There will be new exhibitors this year as well as welcoming back so many of our previous exhibitors, we are delighted to welcome so many new countries and companies …

The first ever Real Madrid-themed park celebrating football and basketball the Real Madrid way opened at Dubai Parks and Resorts. The park will be home to over 40 themed experiences and attractions including the region’s first wooden roller coaster, the tallest amusement ride in the world, Real Madrid trophies arena, themed restaurants and retail stores featuring exclusive personalised merchandise etc. Dubai Parks and Resorts and Real Madrid C.F. opened Real Madrid World (RMW), the first ever Real Madrid-themed park celebrating football and basketball the Real Madrid way at Dubai Parks and Resorts, the Middle East’s largest theme park destination, the fascinating theme park will be home to over 40 original Real Madrid-themed experiences and attractions that offer all guests the exclusive opportunity to feel closer to their football heroes. From visiting the locker rooms of Real Madrid players and exploring the secret sanctuary guarding the club’s winning trophies, to enjoying thrilling attractions, captivating entertainment shows and topped by the region’s first wooden roller coaster and tallest amusement ride in the world – guests are in for an unforgettable adventure, surrounded by captivating attractions and immersive experiences like never before. Fans will explore an impressive collection of official Real Madrid retail and merchandise in Dubai at Real Madrid World, where fans are invited to personalize the Club’s shirts and other collectibles to celebrate football the Real Madrid way as well as enjoy numerous dining venues and carts offering flavourful treats with Spanish twists. Fernando Eiroa, Chief Executive Officer at Dubai Holding Entertainment, said, “Dubai Parks™ and Resorts is the first theme park destination worldwide to announce a major partnership with Real Madrid. The world’s first and only Real Madrid-theme park celebrates …