Emirates and Philippine Airlines (PAL) have signed an interline agreement to boost connectivity for passengers of both air carriers to new points on each other’s networks via Manila and Dubai, using a single ticket and one baggage policy. Now in effect, the reciprocal interline partnership provides Emirates’ passengers access to 19 Philippine domestic destinations operated by Philippine Airlines, including Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, Cotabato, Davao, Iloilo, Kalibo and more, as well as two Asian regional points via Manila. Philippine Airlines’ passengers also benefit from access to Emirates’ global network and seamlessly connect to 21 cities operated by Emirates beyond Dubai to European destinations such as London, Rome, Frankfurt, Barcelona, Paris and Kuwait, as well as to Jeddah and other points in the Middle East , Africa and India. Travel itineraries can be booked on emirates.com, philippineairlines.com, the Emirates and PAL mobile apps, or via both online and offline travel agents. Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer commented: “The Philippines is one of our strongest consumer markets and we’re pleased to sign a new interline agreement with the country’s flag carrier. The partnership with Philippine Airlines will help open new links for trade and tourism that will drive more inbound traffic into the market, and expand Emirates’ footprint in East Asia. We look forward to serving our partner airline’s customers with additional travel choices to Emirates destinations across the Middle East, Europe as well as the Americas, and to expanding our cooperation with plans to include additional points via Cebu in the coming months.” Bud Britanico, Philippine Airlines Vice President for Sales commented:  “We are happy to embark on this new interline partnership with Emirates that expands the choices available …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) introduces its all-new Wedding Certification Programme to enable seamless, quick, and easy wedding planning in the Emirate. Bolstering Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a world-class wedding destination, the new initiative was announced at the 11th edition of the Exotic Wedding Planning Conference (EWPC), currently taking place at Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Centre with leading wedding and event planners from around the world in attendance. As part of the programme, both domestic and internationally based wedding planners will have access to an e-learning platform that will be launched this spring as a one-stop-shop to seamlessly facilitate all aspects of a civil ceremony. Those certified through the programme will benefit from added ease and flexibility in obtaining necessary licenses, organising events, and gaining valuable business support from certified hotels via the portal. Planners will also gain a deeper understanding of the UAE’s civil marriage process, receive fast-tracked permits, and have access to a network of resources to help them confidently navigate through local regulations. With the aim of enhancing awareness of the Emirate’s array of distinctive locations, certified wedding planners will also gain expert knowledge on a curated portfolio of unique venues that provide breath-taking backdrops for bespoke, picturesque celebrations – including Al Jazeera Al Hamra, Jais Viewing Deck Park, Dhayah Fort, Sonara Camp Al Wadi, Date Farm, and Suwaidi Pearls Farm. In parallel, a series of comprehensive incentive packages will be available for couples, wedding planners, and certified venues. These will include complimentary services, discounted rates, and airport support for charter flights, while any specialised permits will be waived off to further ease procedures. The initiatives follow the UAE’s recent introduction of …

Now, in its 29th year, Dubai International boat show kicked off once again at the Dubai Harbour, the permanent show ground alongside the cruise terminal in the Dubai Marina. Speaking at the opening Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer, Shamal Holding, the owner and curator of Dubai Harbour, “I would like welcome you again to the Dubai harbour, this district was designed and purpose built for the maritime industry in the UAE which has been guiding for thousands of years.” Speaking with tourism breaking news he added the importance of the international boat show and the development plans for the harbour itself. “We believe that with partners like the Dubai international boat show, we support the growth of the industry overall in the region and in Dubai. We believe that the show this year is bigger, we continue to emphasise the permanency of this show, it is on its 29th edition. We offer the largest marina in the region with amazing and extraordinary facilities, we believe that we cannot work in isolation from the industry, the show allows us to interact with the industry and support the industry and it also allows to bring in innovation. In Dubai harbour we have developed two cruise terminals which are the largest in the Eastern hemisphere in a drive to support the city’s ambition to grow in the cruise tourism sector. We can see double the number of cruise passengers from last season, we welcomed more ships, more variety and we continue to provide the best service and best experience. We believe with the current capacity we have with the two terminals we will continue to support the growth of the number of ship …

Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre is celebrating 25 years of hospitality and in honour of this monumental anniversary, the hotel is hosting a range of exciting events and activities, with something for everyone to enjoy. Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre has been hospitality landmark in the area, welcoming guests from all over the world, since opening its doors in 1998. Standing proudly over the Dubai Creek and conveniently attached to City Centre Deira shopping mall, the 317 key property has solidified itself as a reliable, welcoming and premium hospitality destination in the Dubai Creek area. Cluster General Manager of Majid Al Futtaim-Accor Properties, Nishan Silva said, “We are delighted to be celebrating the 25th year of hospitality for Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre. This is a significant milestone in the property’s history, and our aim is to continue to grow and adapt to the ever-changing hospitality landscape in the region and offer our guests a premium experience over the next 25 years, whilst never settling for the status quo.” Biju Prakash, Director Asset Management Business Unit, Majid Al Futtaim Properties said, “This year Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre is celebrating 25 years of tradition, impeccable guest experience, renowned reputation, and breakthrough results. This marks a key milestone in the history of Majid Al Futtaim Properties, being the 1st hotel of the group. Over the past two decades and a half this hotel has established itself as place where tradition, art and culture meets modernity and service excellence attracting guests who wish to experience the cultural and historic hub of Dubai”. Throughout 2023, the property will be unveiling a range of specially curated offers, competitions on social media and events on …

Gulf Craft is showcasing the new Majesty 111 and Nomad 101 superyachts at the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) 2023, two breathtaking vessels that highlight the celebrated yacht maker’s new vision of the future. Making their global debut at DIBS 2023, the two superyachts epitomise Gulf Craft’s new era of dynamic growth under the strategic theme, ‘Legacy in Motion’, driving the company to push boundaries through four core focus areas:  Technology & Innovation, Path to Sustainability, Global Expansion and Next Generation. Gulf Craft celebrated its 40th anniversary at last year’s Dubai International Boat Show, looking back on four decades of passion, innovation and growth. This year, the boat and yacht manufacturer will build on that rich legacy as it moves towards its future and sets out its commitment and vision for the decades ahead. Meticulous market research and trend forecasting for a broader global market establish the Majesty 111 and Nomad 101 as new leaders in their class. Luxurious interiors and earthy hues set the tone for the onboard experience of the Majesty 111: the cabins flow from one to another, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor transition. Sustainability is also a major theme in the superyacht, with better fuel efficiency,  smart product design and emissions-reducing technologies. Incorporating sustainable materials throughout, the Nomad 101 features powerful engines, which, combined with much better fuel efficiency, unlock more adventurous and far-flung destinations for exploration. A generous amount of glazing maximizes exterior views, while the Portuguese Bridge offers a full walkaround deck. Mohamed Hussein Alshaali, Gulf Craft Chairman, said: “At Gulf Craft, we never shy away from out-of-the-box thinking. This innovative spirit inspired our growth from a builder of small fishing boats to one of …

dnata continues to invest in innovative initiatives, equipment, and training to enhance the travel experience of People of Determination, and lead the aviation industry in the special handling of passengers. dnata’s Special Handling unit offers point-to-point assistance to People of Determination, supporting 1.3 million passengers annually throughout their airport journey across DXB’s three terminals. All 1,300 customer-oriented staff at dnata receive comprehensive training prior to joining operations. Training at dnata focuses on customer service, and for employees to understand the unique needs of People of Determination. It also tackles the handling of special equipment such as the three types of adult wheelchairs provided by dnata: a conventional wheelchair; a STAXI wheelchair which incorporates a baggage stowage area below the chair; and a cabin wheelchair used for passengers with special needs who require assistance to and from the aircraft seat, and which is specially designed to fit in the aisle of an aircraft. dnata’s equipment for passengers with special needs are designed for differing levels of needs. Based on the feedback from customers during the AccessAbility Expo in Dubai, the company’s most recent initiatives include the procurement of wheelchairs specially designed for children. To be introduced later this year, these new wheelchairs will offer a better fit for children and make young travellers feel more safe and comfortable. The company’s fleet also includes medical high-loaders to help those with mobility issues access aircraft parked at remote stands. dnata also possesses a ProMove Sling, an innovative moving and handling device for passengers with limited mobility. The light and portable sling’s strategically placed handles make lifting a passenger from their aircraft seat to the cabin wheelchair a dignified process without service staff having …

Elaf Group KSA, unveiled its brand-new Elaf – Al Taqwa in Medina, Saudi Arabia. The hotel was inaugurated by Dr. Abdulraouf Manna, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Elaf Group and Dr. Adel Ezzat, CEO of Elaf Group in the presence of Mounir Mohamed Nasser, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Medina, several members of the board and the group’s partners. The launch of the new hotel is in line with the group’s commitment to supporting the goals of the “Saudi Vision 2030”, including enhancing the role of the tourism sector in the Kingdom’s development, increasing the contribution of the private sector in the Saudi economy, and diversify investments, further strengthening the Kingdom’s position and its global competitiveness. The Elaf -Al Taqwa hotel serve as a top choice for pilgrims and tourists with its convenient location a few steps away from the courtyard of the south-east corner of Al Masjid an-Nabawi and only 25 minutes’ drive from Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport. Additionally, the hotel also connects the key religious and historical landmarks. Dr. Abdulraouf Manna, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Elaf Group, said: “We are extremely pleased to open our brand-new Elaf -Al Taqwa Hotel in Medina, which is in line with the Group’s strategy to grow our presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We are keen to contribute to the growth of the Hajj, Umrah, hospitality, and tourism sectors in Saudi Arabia and satisfy all the evolving demands of customers by launching more hotel facilities. The launch also reflects the culture of generosity and hospitality of the Kingdom, showcases its values, and is in line with the Group’s commitment to …

Qatar Airways has launched a new brand campaign in collaboration with world-renowned Indian actress, Deepika Padukone. The campaign launch is the culmination of the airline’s endeavour to redefine Qatar Airways Premium experience, particularly through showcasing the world-class Qsuite along with the unparalleled surroundings of The Orchard, which are core to Hamad International Airport’s expansion. The timeless acoustic track ‘Ain’t Nobody’ accompanies the campaign that connects Padukone’s journey with Qatar Airways to a new level of luxury and elegance. She encapsulates the premium experience available to customers of Qatar Airways, transiting through the best airport in the world, Hamad International Airport. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “At Qatar Airways, we constantly strive for excellence. This collaboration brings together refinement and grace, and Deepika showcases beautifully on how Qatar Airways offers award-winning premium experiences both in the sky and on the ground to its customers. Deepika is an obvious choice as she has the right global appeal and charisma for our brand. We are truly delighted to have Deepika on board Qatar Airways as our Global Brand Ambassador.”

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is ramping up operations to meet high demand and expanding its modern, sustainable fleet. With nine state-of-the-art Airbus A321neo aircraft, the airline is driving ambitious growth into new territories with must-see destinations for adventure lovers carrying the flag of ultra-low-cost travel. Set to launch this summer, the national airline is commencing operations to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan and the relaunch of popular routes to Larnaca, Santorini and Sohag, Egypt. Tickets are already on sale on wizzair.com and the airline’s mobile app with fares starting as low as AED 179*. The additional aircraft will enable Wizz Air Abu Dhabi to enhance frequencies and offer tourists and residents hassle-free, affordable travel in both the UAE and throughout multiple continents to the very best destinations. Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has a plethora of year-round travel opportunities with culturally rich destinations including vibrant cities and natural paradises. On top of the new destinations, the new aircraft will enable Wizz Air Abu Dhabi to increase the ultra-low-cost-travel footprint in the current network with increased presence on Abu Dhabi – Tirana, Yerevan, Baku, Alexandria, Kutaisi, Athens, Almaty, Astana, Sarajevo, Ankara, Tashkent and Samarkand. Bishkek, the financial centre of Kyrgyzstan, is a modern, cosmopolitan city with colourful bazaars. Located at the foothills of the Tien Shan mountain range, Bishkek is an eclectic mix of Kyrgyz culture and Soviet architecture with must-see attractions including the State Historical Museum and Ala-Too Square. Adventurous travellers can enjoy the beautiful sites in the nearby countryside with the unmissable mountains at Ala-Archa National Park and pristine valleys. Well-known for its palm-tree seafront, Larnaca is truly authentic and offers a plethora of tourist sites with laidback crowds. The port city has …

Jazeera Airways announced the launch of direct flights to a third destination in Uzbekistan: Samarkand. The airline will operate twice a week, connecting travelers from Kuwait to this historic city, while offering a convenient route for Uzbek travelers to the Middle East region and beyond. In 2021, Jazeera Airways was the first to connect Kuwait to Uzbekistan with direct flights to the capital city of Tashkent, twice a week. Last year, Jazeera also started flying to the third largest city in the country, Namangan. Rohit Ramachandran, CEO, Jazeera Airways, said: “We have been steadily developing our presence in Central Asia and Uzbekistan has been a particular success for us with continuing growth opportunities. We are pleased to be adding Samarkand to our network in the region. To date Samarkand has limited direct international flight connections and we are hoping that our direct flights from Kuwait will make the city more accessible for both inbound and outbound passengers.” Situated on the Great Silk Road, Samarkand has a unique geographic presence and also features on the UNESCO World Heritage list. It comprises of one of a kind architectural landmarks, scientific and art influences as well as artisan workshops. Operations on this new route will commence from 1st March 2023. Flight Schedule Flight Number Frequency From To Departure (Local Time) Arrival (Local Time) J9 0681 Wednesday, Sunday KWI SKD 05:10 10:20 J9 0682 Wednesday, Sunday SKD KWI 11:35 13:15