The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) participating at the Arabian Travel Market 2025 will be focusing on promoting sustainable tourism to the GCC travellers. Sustainable tourism growth is a key component of Jamaica’s Vision 2023 development plan.  Recognizing the GCC as having one of the most well-travelled globetrotters, fueled by its spending power and interest in unique destinations, keeps JTBs committed to its goal of positioning the country as a major consideration for travel amongst the nationals and residents of the GCC countries. Reaching out to new regions aims to enhance its global tourism footprint and economic resilience. Its continued presence in the region’s premier travel and trade event demonstrates the recognition of GCCs role in Jamaica’s international tourism growth strategy. In a collaborative push to promote the island, Tourism Minister Hon. Edmund Bartlett will be joined by Director of Tourism Donovan White, together with Jamaica’s top suppliers in the hospitality and leisure sectors at the JTB stand, ready to network with travel and media professionals from across the GCC. Diversifying tourism markets and promoting sustainable growth is a key component of Jamaica’s Vision 2023 development plan. Reaching out to new regions aims to enhance its global tourism footprint and economic resilience. Recognizing the GCC as having one of the most well-travelled globetrotters, fueled by its spending power and interest in unique destinations, keeps JTBs committed to its goal of positioning the country as a major consideration for travel amongst the nationals and residents of the GCC countries. “Our ongoing participation in ATM reflects our dedication to fostering relationships within the GCC market,” stated Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism. “We are confident that Jamaica’s unique blend of natural beauty …

Air India and Air India Express are set to participate in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, to be held from 28 April to 1 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), UAE. Located at booth numbers AS7290 and AS7295 in the Asia pavilion of hall 8, the two airlines will present their complementary strengths in a modern, immersive space, designed to reflect the bold new era of the two airlines. The Arabian Travel Market has been a gateway to global travel and tourism growth, unlocking business potential for the industry for over three decades. Spanning over 100 square metres, the combined booth of Air India and Air India Express at ATM 2025 offers a vibrant showcase of the evolving Tata group airlines, blending tradition with technology and storytelling with service. Designed with a digital-first approach, the pavilion features a captivating Virtual Reality (VR) zone where visitors can step inside Air India’s cutting-edge A350 aircraft and explore its flagship product. Displays of the newly upgraded 787-9 Dreamliner and A321 cabins further reflect Air India’s commitment to world-class comfort and innovation as part of its Vihaan.AI transformation journey. Air India Express brings its distinct personality to life through interactive and visually rich touchpoints. Guests can immerse themselves in ‘Tales of India’—a celebration of the country’s rich cultural diversity told through the airline’s vibrant tail art inspired by regional motifs. The recently launched ‘Inglish Dictionary’, a bold and joyful collection of desi expressions wrapped in Sohrai art, offers a playful peek into how India truly speaks. The ‘Gourmair’ section of the exhibition presents an engaging digital display that highlights the Air India Express’ inflight culinary excellence, offering guests a visual taste …

Four of the strongest European countries came together today as they opened the travel summit with 150 buyers who flew in from within GCC, Levant and India for the first ‘Discover Europe Travel Summit meets Marhaba 2025’. Germany, Spain, France and Austria organised the event with partners from each destination. The event will b e held across two days today and tomorrow. They included destinations, hotels, DMCs, attractions, retail outlets etc. A total of 5,720 pre-scheduled meetings are planned across the two-day event. Germany has consistently attracted GCC travellers with its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and modern urban experiences. The country’s emphasis on family-friendly attractions and seamless travel infrastructure makes it a preferred destination for both leisure and business travellers from the region. Spain has emerged as a favoured destination for GCC tourists, drawn by its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and culinary delights. The country’s diverse regions offer unique experiences, from Madrid’s bustling streets to Barcelona’s coastal beauty. France continues to enchant GCC travellers with its iconic landmarks, luxury shopping, and gastronomic experiences. The country’s commitment to offering tailored services has enhanced its appeal among discerning visitors from the region. Austria’s breathtaking alpine landscapes, serene lakes, and charming cities have seen growing interest from GCC travellers. The country’s offerings range from winter sports to summer festivals, catering to diverse preferences and providing year-round appeal.  

Qashio partnered with Visa to host an exclusive event bringing together the UAE’s top travel decision-makers for a dynamic exchange of insights and industry trends. The event welcomed senior executives from across the regional travel ecosystem, including online travel agencies, destination management companies, and leading luxury hospitality brands. Guests heard keynote speeches from Brendan Noonan, former senior executive at Emirates and Qatar Airways, who emphasised the urgent need for operational agility and secure financial flows in aviation. Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, Visa’s SVP and Group Country Manager for GCC, spoke about Visa’s role in building frictionless, secure digital payment infrastructure alongside partners such as Qashio. A lively panel discussion on “Technology’s role in the evolution of the travel industry” took place, with esteemed guest speakers included Aidan Dempsey, General Manager of the Ritz-Carlton RAK, Claudia Esposito, Chief Commercial Officer of Qashio, and Ganes RK, Head of Visa Commercial Solutions for GCC, who explored how digital payments, automation, and customer-centric innovations are reshaping travel operations and experiences across the country. Addressing the event’s impact, Armin Moradi, CEO of Qashio, said: “The UAE’s travel sector is evolving rapidly alongside the nation’s wider digital transformation, and such events show just how important it is to rethink spend management through a modern, automated lens. Businesses today need agile, transparent financial systems that support their growth and resilience. Our partnership with Visa, whose international reputation for secure, scalable payment infrastructure lends strong validation to our innovations, is helping the industry embrace the future with confidence. We are proud to contribute to the UAE’s broader vision of a cashless, technology-driven economy, while empowering companies to operate more efficiently and stay ahead in a highly competitive landscape.” Salima …

Virgin Atlantic has touched down in Riyadh, Saudi, marking Virgin Atlantic’s first ever flight into the country. The daily service to King Khalid International Airport reflects Saudi’s ambitious Vision 2030 and its emergence as a premier global tourist destination. With breathtaking natural landscapes ranging from desert dunes to the lush highlands of Aseer and the pristine Saudi Red Sea, visitors can explore a diverse array of experiences. Saudi’s vibrant events calendar, featuring highlights like the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and MDLBEAST music festival, continue to attract millions annually. Looking ahead, hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034 will further cement the Kingdom’s reputation as a hub for world-class events and unforgettable experiences.  Riyadh has solidified its position as a global hub for world-class events, from sports to entertainment, complemented by its exceptional shopping and dining experiences. At the same time, Saudi’s growing reputation as a safe and welcoming destination is reshaping perceptions and drawing an increasing number of visitors from Europe. The arrival of Virgin Atlantic in Riyadh marks the start of Virgin Group’s expansion into Saudi, unlocking fresh opportunities for tourism, innovation, and strategic collaboration. His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister for Tourism, said: “Virgin Atlantic’s arrival into Saudi signifies the next chapter in the country’s emergence as a premier global destination. It opens the doors for more tourists from the UK and beyond to discover our diverse landscapes, rich heritage and unique experience. “Saudi is inspiring tourists from across the globe. In 2024 alone, Saudi welcomed 128 million air passengers – marking a growth rate of 15% compared to 2023 – demonstrating our increasing appeal as a leading destination and travel hub.” “From Riyadh, a thriving hub of …

At the official press conference by RX Global for Arabian Travel Market 2025 it was shared that they anticipate over 55,000 attendees from 161 countries at the 32nd edition. ATM 2025 will showcase over 2,800 exhibiting companies with 17% from the Middle East and 83% from the rest of the world, and the event has achieved a near 12% year-on-year increase in exhibitor participation, making it the largest edition to date, now spanning 14 halls. Securing USD2.5 billion in industry deals, the event enables participants to forge global networks and discover emerging opportunities and innovations in the travel and tourism ecosystem. Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in collaboration with the event’s strategic partners: the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Emirates, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Al Rais Travel. Hosted at voco Dubai by IHG, the press conference unveiled plans for the upcoming edition, which will take place next week, from 28 April to 1 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Bringing together professionals and leaders from all travel sectors and verticals including leisure, business events (MICE), luxury and corporate travel sectors, ATM is where entrepreneurs and industry leaders from high growth and emerging markets across MENA, Asia and Africa unite with professionals from the Worlds most established and mature markets to drive innovation, investment and partnerships.  

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is once again making waves with the launch of its latest water sports adventure—the Jet Car Experience. Set against the backdrop of the island’s turquoise lagoon, the Jet Car offers an exciting way to explore the ocean in comfort and style. With its sleek automotive-inspired design and smooth performance, this water ride is perfect for families, couples, and friends looking to add a little adventure to their stay. Whether cruising under the sun or capturing perfect picture moments, the Jet Car adds an extraordinary and refreshing twist to island leisure. Launched in anticipation of the resort’s whimsical Easter festivities, the Jet Car sets the stage for an action-packed holiday in paradise. From Easter egg hunts and creative kids’ programs to beachside feasts, live entertainment, and themed dining events — Easter at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is a celebration for every generation. Easter Holiday Offer – book by April 20, 2025, for stays until December 23, 2025. Enjoy free seaplane transfers for one guest with a 4-night stay, plus up to 30% off villas and beach dining. Book a 90-minute spa treatment and receive a 120-minute upgrade for free. Two children can enjoy complimentary wakeboarding or water skiing with two paying adults. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or serenity, the Jet Car experience and Easter escape at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi deliver the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and family-friendly fun.

BENO will now offer curated adventures across yacht charters from its new lounge at Dubai’s ultra-luxury– Marsa Al Arab Marina. Located within the marina adjacent to Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab – the new lifestyle destination in Dubai and the latest addition to Jumeirah’s global portfolio of hotels and resorts – the BENO Lounge is a sophisticated entry point for clients to discover the full suite of BENO services. Guests can choose to escape for a sail on any of BENO’s exclusive private yachts, with a growing fleet that debark from the hotel’s private marina, footsteps away from the lounge. The jewel of BENO’s fleet is the 115 ft Santorini Superyacht which has a capacity for up to 80 guests with overnight accommodation in five luxurious cabins for twelve. With a crew of seven, the yacht features a Main Salon, Bar, Jacuzzi, Dining Area, and Sunbeds, making it ideal for multi-day trips. The 74 ft Jude Yacht, 64 ft Julia Yacht, and 42 ft Arya Yacht round out the premium end of the fleet, each offering guests a luxurious experience both inside the cabin and out on deck. Aiham Bader, Founder and Chairman, said, “The opening of the BENO Lounge at the Marsa Al Arab Marina, one of the most luxurious and sought-after destinations in the world, mirrors our desire to deliver unrivalled leisure experiences in the luxury space. We aim to craft moments that feel effortless, yet unforgettable while you’re cruising the Gulf.” The announcement comes just ahead of BENO’s presence at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, where the brand will continue to build momentum and meet with key industry stakeholders. .

Red Sea Global (RSG)  announced the launch of its new brand, Botanica. The new name for The Red Sea Landscape Nursery, Botanica is dedicated to sustainable greenery across RSG’s destinations, while also providing exceptional, nature-based experiences to guests. Operational since 2020, Botanica has grown and supplied more than 7 million plants to landscape RSG’s destinations. It aims to deliver 30 million plants by 2030. Starting this month, Botanica is opening up to guests at The Red Sea, AMAALA and beyond. “Botanica is more than just a nursery — it’s a step towards regenerating Saudi Arabia’s rich biodiversity. After providing us with more than 7 million plants for landscaping our destinations, the nursery now becomes our first guest experience that caters uniquely to the RSG DNA of regenerative tourism. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy immersive, hands-on experiences that reconnect them with nature,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG. Immersive visitor experiences at Botanica Visitors to Botanica will be able to explore the beauty and sustainability of the nursery first-hand. The experiences on offer include: • A guided tour around the nursery • The opportunity to plant their own plants • Botanica Café offering breakfast and lunch • A garden shop and tropical area At over 1.8 million square meters, Botanica is the largest landscape nursery in the region. It is part of Red Sea Global’s planet-first approach, seeking to enrich the natural environment and set new standards in responsible development. Approximately 400 people are employed at the nursery, with 25% coming from the local community. The Red Sea welcomed its first guests in 2023, with five of its hotels now open. Botanica becomes the first guest experience that caters …

With Saudi Arabia’s growing interest in the Asia-Pacific market, PATA signaled readiness to support the Kingdom with market intelligence and regional insights. While acknowledging Saudi’s robust in-house expertise, PATA highlighted its value as a connector offering knowledge from decades of Asia-focused tourism development. The collaboration could involve joint projects, knowledge sharing, and practical guidance to help Saudi adapt its tourism products for Asian travelers.