Travelport announced that it has renewed its multi-year agreement with United Airlines. As part of the agreement, Travelport will continue to provide travel agencies around the world real-time access to United’s wide selection of travel content, products, and services. Travelport will also continue to collaborate closely with the carrier to support United’s New Distribution Capability (NDC) initiatives and deliver a world-class, modern travel retail experience. Simplified access to United’s NDC content and servicing capabilities launched several months ago with a successful early adopter program and is anticipated to be available to all of Travelport’s agency customers in August. With this extended rollout, Travelport-connected agencies will be able to easily search, compare and book United’s NDC offers, as well as service NDC bookings, including modifications and cancellations. While all Travelport customers will have access to United’s NDC content, agents using Travelport+ will be able to access a wide range of United’s rich content, fares, and unique offerings all in one place, enhanced by the Content Curation Layer (CCL). This Travelport+ feature minimizes manual tasks using powerful artificial intelligence (AI) and machine-learning (ML) capabilities to provide agents and travelers a more modern retailing experience with faster search responses, more relevant results, and greater accuracy. “We’re laser-focused on modern retailing and making new content sources, like NDC, easier for travel agents. Our partnership with United Airlines provides a streamlined booking experience with simplified access to United’s dynamic offers and ancillaries to our agency network anytime, anywhere,” said Jason Clarke, Chief Commercial Officer, Travel Partners at Travelport. “Our NDC solution is designed to support travel retailers with complete end-to-end servicing that goes beyond the booking process, allowing agents to easily manage trip changes on …

Etihad Airways announces its new destination in the United States, with four weekly flights to Boston commencing on 31 March 2024. This addition connects one of the United States’ most vibrant and dynamic cities to the ever-expanding Etihad network. “We are delighted to introduce flights to Boston, which opens up Abu Dhabi to visitors from the American Northeast and across the United States,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways. “We eagerly await welcoming guests to our extraordinary home as well as offering them access to our growing global network. As one of America’s most culturally diverse and thriving cities, visitors from Abu Dhabi will relish exploring its rich heritage and experiencing Boston’s renowned hospitality. Expanding US Gateway: This will be Etihad’s fourth US gateway, complementing services to Chicago, New York, and Washington, along with flights to Toronto in Canada. The addition of Boston further solidifies Etihad’s commitment to providing passengers with enhanced connectivity between the United States and Abu Dhabi. In addition to providing nonstop access to the Boston market, Etihad will offer convenient connections to cities throughout North America through its partnership with jetBlue. This partnership allows travellers to enjoy a seamless and hassle-free travel experience, unlocking numerous travel possibilities across the continent.

Hamad International Airport (DOH) is elevating its passenger’s airport experience with the introduction of innovative digital wayfinding. QR Codes are leveraged to provide easy to use wayfinding solution through different digital touchpoints conveniently located across the airport’s expansive terminal. Whether trying to navigate from ORCHARD to LampBear, wanting to try one of the many dining or retail experiences at the airport or finding a departure gate, passengers will experience frictionless wayfinding. The QR Codes are available across the airport through Flight Information Display Screens, Passenger Digital Assistance Kiosks and other key touchpoints, to further assist passengers with their wayfinding requirements. The new digital solution is compatible with all mobile devices and passengers can seamlessly connect to Hamad International Airport’s next generation Wi-Fi to use this service. Commenting on this new digital service, Mr. Suhail Kadri, Senior Vice President of Technology and Innovation at Hamad International Airport said: “We are constantly reviewing and evaluating our multiple digital touchpoints for passengers to ensure we meet their requirements. By investing and utilizing the latest innovative technological solutions and listening to global passenger requirements at our airport, we will continue to set and exceed industry standards.” Digital Concierges located at ORCHARD include information about retail and F&B offering, flight information, relaxation and rejuvenation options and attractions at the airport. Travelers can scan the QR code to navigate to their chosen point of interest on their mobile. The airport has also introduced the Passenger Digital Assistance Kiosks which are located at the North Plaza of the airport, and around the iconic LampBear to further enhance passenger experience. As part of the airport’s digital transformation strategy, Hamad International Airport is constantly investing in the latest technology …

Radisson Hotel Group is expanding its presence in Morocco with the opening of Radisson Blu Residences, Saidia, its eighth hotel in the country. The hotel comprises 13 contemporary units made up of suites, studios, and apartments with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the region’s renowned landscapes. Fully equipped with modern appliances and amenities, expansive living areas and kitchens, the residences provide unparalleled comfort whether traveling alone or with a family. Guests can enjoy the two large pools to cool off from the sun, take a stroll along the pristine beach known as the “Blue Pearl” for its crystal blue waters, or explore the beautiful Mediterranean flora. For the ultimate relaxation, guests have access to the spa and traditional Moroccan hammam at the adjacent Radisson Blu Resort, Saidia Beach for an authentic Moroccan experience.

Japan National Tourism Organization announced the remarkable resurgence of inbound tourism to Japan from GCC. The first half of this year saw 13,537 GCC nationals visiting Japan. Remarkably close to the 2019 figure of 13,582, this signifies a strong revival of interest in Japan among GCC travelers. Moreover, countries such as Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain have outperformed their 2019 visitor numbers, showcasing the robust recovery of inbound tourism from these markets.* June 2023 witnessed a significant milestone, with Japan welcoming 2,073,300 international visitors, equivalent to 72.0% of the June 2019 figure. This marked the first time since January 2020 that Japan surpassed two million visitors in a single month, signaling a promising rebound for the country’s tourism industry. The cumulative number of international visitors to Japan during the first half of 2023 reached an impressive 10,712,000, surpassing ten million visitors. This accomplishment reflects the resilient revival of Japan’s tourism sector, highlighting the country’s enduring allure for global travelers. Mr. KOBAYASHI Daisuke, Executive Director of Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Dubai office, expressed his satisfaction with the recovery of tourism from the GCC countries. He attributes the rebound to the recent introduction of visa waiver arrangements and online visa applications in some GCC countries, coupled with the total lifting of COVID-related border control measures in April. Furthermore, close collaboration with airlines and travel agencies in the region has further promoted Japan as a preferred leisure destination. KOBAYASHI Daisuke, Executive Director of JNTO Dubai Office, “As summer unfolds, Mr. KOBAYASHI Daisuke invites all visitors to Japan to partake in the exciting festivals and outdoor events that await them. For an unforgettable summer festival experience, he recommends visiting the Tohoku region in …

Wego has teamed up with Moroccan National Tourist Office. Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial officer and Managing Director, MENA and India, Wego said: “We are excited to embark our partnership with Moroccan National Tourist Office. This partnership is set to inspire and captivate travelers worldwide, igniting a sense of wanderlust. We recorded over 39% increase in the number of searches to the country in 2023 in comparison to the same period last year, with over 2 million searches so far. We are looking forward to forging a long-lasting relationship with the board.” Morocco offers a diverse range of experiences for all types of travelers during the summer. For history and culture enthusiasts, exploring the ancient medinas of cities like Marrakech and Fes is a must. Immerse yourself in the bustling souks, admire stunning architectural masterpieces like the Koutoubia Mosque, and visit historical sites such as the iconic Jardin Majorelle. Nature lovers can embark on an adventure to the Sahara Desert, where they can experience the magic of camel trekking, spend a night under the starry desert sky, and witness mesmerizing sunsets over the golden dunes. Beachgoers can head to coastal towns like Essaouira or Agadir, where they can relax on pristine sandy beaches, try water sports like surfing, or savor delicious seafood. Food enthusiasts can indulge in the aromatic flavors of Moroccan cuisine, sampling tagines, couscous, and traditional mint tea in local restaurants or joining cooking classes to learn the secrets of Moroccan culinary delights. With its vibrant markets, captivating landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, Morocco offers an unforgettable summer experience for travelers of all interests.  

Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, the first Marriott Hotels resort in the UAE, has unveiled its spectacular collection of premium Suites and Penthouses. Each a secluded haven with sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline.  In the Presidential Suite, a newly imagined experience awaits guests as they elevate beyond the everyday. Accommodating up to six guests, the 400-sq-m sanctuary features a private bar and entertaining area, spacious living and dining areas and dynamic bathroom experiences with sauna. Furthermore, guests can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen and panoramic views over Dubai Marina and Ain Dubai. Offering elevated amenities, the Royal Penthouse boasts sweeping city and sea views and an expansive private outdoor terrace with a private jacuzzi. Sleeping up to six, this lavishly appointed penthouse offers distinguished amenities complete with thoughtful design elements to ensure guest enjoyment is a priority. In-suite comforts include a fully equipped bar and entertainment area, kitchen with Lavazza coffee machine and a spacious master suite with a separate lounge. The enhanced bathroom experience with walk-in showers and large baths complemented with Maison D’asa amenities and a private sauna, is not to be missed! Meanwhile, the allure of the Palm Penthouse lies in its expansive terrace offering the ideal entertaining area with outdoor bar, sun deck, premium cabanas, jacuzzi and alfresco dining spaces. Sleeping up to six guests, in-suite comforts include Maison D’asa amenities, walk-in showers and large baths. A fully equipped bar and entertainment area adorns the living room along with a kitchen with Lavazza coffee machine and a stunning master suite with a separate lounge. Other Suites unveiled at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai include the Palm Suite, Executive Suite and Palm Family …

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) and the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) are excited to invite entries for the 6th edition of the Ithra Art Prize under a comprehensive partnership to promote and grow the arts and cultural industries across Saudi Arabia. The open call for the prize, which comes with a grant of $100,000, closes on September 30, 2023. The winning artwork will be unveiled during the AlUla Arts Festival in February 2024. One of the most significant grants in the region, the Ithra Art Prize at AlUla supports the partnership aim to empower the creative sector. This edition will focus on outdoor installation art and sculpture, and will be adjudicated by a committee of regional and international experts including representatives from Ithra and RCU. The Ithra Art Prize supports artists from and based in the Arab world to develop career-making work. The winner will receive $100,000, and Ithra will cover production costs up to $400,000. The winning piece will be unveiled and showcased at AlUla’s unique multi-arts festival championing art in all its forms, before joining Ithra’s permanent collection. The partnership boosts strategic talent and skills capabilities across the creative economy in line with Vision 2030, and connects Saudi’s western and eastern regions through art and culture. Fields for collaboration include film, training and education, corporate social responsibility, events and exhibitions, and research, including in digital awareness. It also delivers opportunities to build art-led skills development and experiences between the two communities. The agreement leverages Ithra’s expertise in offering curated courses, training programs and other cultural activities beyond the Centre’s campus and RCU’s efforts to build on AlUla’s rich legacy to place art and creativity …

Hamad International Airport (DOH) has announced it has relaunched its convenient premium valet parking services, now offering even greater value-added benefits to its ever-growing number of passengers. The service, available at the departure curbside near gate 1, is limited to those staying for a minimum of one day. In addition to securely parking vehicles in the premium car park within the short-term parking area, passengers can now avail the following unique benefits: Drop-off at the Departures curbside near gate 1 at the dedicated valet parking slot. Passengers will be welcomed by valet staff who will provide instant assistance. Complimentary porterage service available for departing passengers with luggage. Complimentary exterior vehicle wash. Continuous communication with valet staff for the duration of the service. Vehicles will be ready for pick-up at the departures curbside upon arrival. To ensure the utmost convenience for passengers, the premium valet service is a ticketless and cashless process. Passengers will receive an e-ticket via WhatsApp or SMS to retrieve their vehicles. Since its inauguration in 2014, Hamad International Airport has been committed to providing exceptional experiences for all its visitors and passengers. As the gateway to the State of Qatar and the Middle East, the airport continues to solidify its position as the airport of choice for global travelers.

After setting new industry benchmarks in Premium Economy travel, Emirates is celebrating a banner first year of full-service operations with the highly popular cabin class. Over 160,000 customers have traded up to fly in Emirates Premium Economy since it was introduced in August 2022, with strong demand momentum forecasted in the coming months. The airline is providing travellers more opportunities to experience its highly-acclaimed Premium Economy product which is currently available on flights to 11 cities, with the list growing to 13 cities by the end of the year, as more retrofitted aircraft with refreshed cabins roll into scheduled service. Since Emirates debuted its Premium Economy Class, customer response has been overwhelmingly positive with demand exceeding expectations and bookings growing month on month, demonstrating its appeal to a broad range of traveller segments who want to try out its understated luxury and meticulously elevated experience at great value. Nearly half of customers flying in Emirates Premium Economy are solo travellers venturing off for holidays, while couples and families constitute the other half.  More than 60% of customers who booked to fly in Premium Economy in the last year were also loyal Emirates Skywards members and regular customers of the airline. Emirates currently flies its A380s with the latest Premium Economy cabins to London Heathrow, Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Christchurch, Singapore, Los Angeles, New York JFK, Houston, San Francisco and Dubai, with flights regularly registering full seat loads in Premium Economy. The airline plans to make Premium Economy available to customers flying to/from Mumbai and Bengaluru from 29 October, and additional cities will be announced soon. Emirates currently operates 20 aircraft fitted with Premium Economy, 14 of which were retrofitted in-house by …