A new global study commissioned by Sabre  reveals that more than 91% of agencies operate with four or more booking systems, and over half are managing seven or more – a sprawl that is directly impacting productivity, profitability, and agent satisfaction. Travel agencies are facing growing pressure from fragmented content systems that are increasing operational costs and making it harder to deliver a consistent customer experience.  As a direct response to these mounting challenges, Sabre is introducing SabreMosaic™ Travel Marketplace, which brings together the industry’s widest breadth of travel content in one place, with built-in AI efficiencies and flexible connectivity. “Every industry faces fragmentation in the digital age,” said Jen Catto, Chief Marketing Officer at Sabre. “In advertising, it’s fragmented attention. In broadcasting, it’s fragmented programming. In finance, it’s fragmented data. Travel has never been simple, but in today’s multi-sourced content environment, fragmentation is creating new levels of complexity — and it’s starting to take a real toll. Agencies told us clearly: they want simplicity. They want unified access. And they want technology that helps them serve travelers, not slow them down.” Highlights from the survey include: 75% of agencies say the number of content connections has grown over the past three years 80%+ believe unified access through a single platform would reduce technology costs Nearly 90% manage four or more API integrations, with over half citing the tech burden as a challenge At the same time, artificial intelligence (AI) is seen as a powerful remedy, with 91% of agencies believing it can enhance both productivity and the customer experience. Yet, 41% remain concerned about AI’s long-term implications for the workforce, reinforcing the need for smart, responsible implementation. With the evolution …

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the signing of a management agreement for voco Muscat Al Mouj, a 251-key beachfront hotel set to open in Q4 2025. Alongside Golden Group Holding, the deal marks the first signing of the voco brand in the Sultanate of Oman, further expanding IHG’s premium portfolio across the Middle East. Centrally located in the Omani capital’s Al Mouj Muscat neighbourhood, a vibrant waterfront development known for its luxury residences, yacht marina, championship golf course, and high-end retail offerings, the new hotel will cater to both leisure and business travellers. Its prime location offers easy access to Muscat International Airport and proximity to the city’s cultural landmarks, making it a strategic addition to Oman’s evolving hospitality landscape. Launched in 2018, voco is IHG’s fastest-growing premium brand, already making its mark with openings and signings across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Known for its bold identity and thoughtful touches, the brand blends the character of individual hotels with the benefits of a trusted global name, offering guests a reliably different experience. Upon opening, voco Muscat Al Mouj will join the brand’s growing portfolio of more than 100 open hotels globally and a robust pipeline of more than 95 properties. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East & Africa, said: “We are delighted to bring the voco brand to Oman in partnership with Golden Group Holding. Al Mouj Muscat is one of the region’s most exciting lifestyle destinations and we believe voco’s distinctive charm and premium hospitality offering makes it a perfect fit for the destination. This signing reflects our commitment to supporting Oman Vision 2040, by contributing to the country’s tourism and economic …

Orient Travel  announced a new strategic partnership with Middle East Airlines – Air Liban (MEA), becoming the official General Sales Agent (GSA) for MEA in Sharjah. This collaboration represents a key milestone in Orient Travel’s continued expansion in airline representation, underscoring its commitment to offering comprehensive travel solutions and strengthening regional connectivity. The official inauguration of the MEA office in Sharjah was marked by a ceremonial event attended by key stakeholders from both organizations. The partnership is expected to enhance MEA’s visibility and accessibility in the northern emirates, providing customers and travel partners with greater convenience and improved service. Orient Travel expressed gratitude to the MEA team and Mohamad Cheaib for their confidence and collaboration. With this agreement, Orient Travel reinforces its position as a trusted aviation and travel industry partner in the UAE, while MEA strengthens its footprint in a vital regional hub. The teams at Orient Travel and MEA look forward to a successful and mutually beneficial journey ahead, working together to deliver seamless travel experiences to customers across the region.

Gulf Air announced its expansion in North America with the launch of its direct flights to New York (JFK) from 1st October 2025. This new service establishes a new and additional connection to a key global commercial and cultural hub. Gulf Air will operate three weekly flights to New York (JFK). These flights will be operated by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. Gulf Air will initially operate its flights from the current Terminal One at JFK. The airline intends to transition its operations to JFK’s New Terminal One in June 2026, offering passengers seamless and modern travel experience aligned with Gulf Air’s premium service standards. Gulf Air Group Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Goh stated: “We are excited to announce the launch of our direct flights to New York’s JFK and our return to the North American market. This service aligns with Gulf Air’s strategy of calibrated expansion and serving strategic markets, providing passengers with greater choice and convenience for travel, through Bahrain International Airport, between Bahrain and North America, and beyond, supporting the connectivity strategy of the Kingdom.” Passengers can book their flights to/from New York and stay updated on flight timings by downloading the Gulf Air mobile application, visiting Gulf Air’s website gulfair.com or through travel agents.

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education’s Directorate of Career Guidance and Student Counselling, celebrated the successful conclusion of the first edition of the “Summer Camp” — a unique initiative aimed at introducing school students to real-world career opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sector. Held over 10 days, the program welcomed 50 students from grades 10 and 11, who participated in a series of immersive activities, including site visits to various OMRAN Group-affiliated entities across sectors such as hospitality, tourism experiences, and visitor services. In addition, the students took part in interactive workshops and career guidance sessions, providing them with valuable exposure to professional work environments and deepening their understanding of the tourism industry. The closing ceremony was held under the patronage of H.E. Professor Abdullah Khamis Ambusaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education for Education, and attended by Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, along with a number of officials from both sides. Maha Al Farsi, HR Business Partner at OMRAN Group, said: “We’re pleased with the success of the first edition of the summer camp, held in collaboration with the Ministry of Education’s Vocational Guidance Centre. We were truly impressed by the students’ enthusiasm and commitment throughout the program. The camp offered a practical learning experience that introduced participants to the key pillars and diverse fields of the tourism sector. We believe initiatives like this play a vital role in building early career awareness and inspiring youth to explore the sector’s promising opportunities.” Mr. Zahran bin Nasser Al-Maghadri, Assistant Director of Studies and Entrepreneurship at the Vocational Guidance and Student Counseling Centre, Ministry of Education, stated: “The summer camp …

As part of its ambitious strategy to enhance its position on the global tourism map, the Ajman Department of Tourism Development has signed a Cooperation Agreement with Schauinsland-Reisen, one of the leading travel and tourism companies in Germany and Europe. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen Ajman’s tourism promotion efforts in the European market through integrated marketing and promotional campaigns, including digital advertising, event organisation, and tailored media programs. The collaboration will also involve the development of innovative travel packages that meet the preferences of European tourists. The initiative is expected to attract more European visitors to Ajman and introduce them to the Emirate’s diverse tourism offerings, which combine rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and a modern hospitality infrastructure. Commenting on the agreement, His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi said: “This step reflects our unwavering commitment to implementing a comprehensive strategy that enhances Ajman’s competitiveness on the global tourism stage and targets new, high-potential markets. Partnering with a reputable company like Schauinsland is a real asset, given their extensive experience and wide-reaching network in the European market, which will help us reach targeted tourism segments.” Mr. Eken also praised Ajman’s tourism potential, stating: “We are delighted to be part of this valuable cooperation. We believe this partnership will open new doors for German and European tourists to discover a unique destination like Ajman, which blends authenticity with modernity and offers warm Arabian hospitality.” This agreement comes as part of a series of initiatives launched by the Ajman Department of Tourism Development this year, including the establishment of a new representative office in the Federal Republic of Germany. This office was unveiled during the department’s participation in ITB Berlin 2025, one of …

Ishraq Hospitality announced a new strategic partnership with Samco Holding, one of Egypt’s leading investment and development companies. The signing ceremony marks a significant milestone as both organisations embark on the development of two landmark hospitality projects in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital. The first of the two properties will be Holiday Inn Express Cairo New Capital, set within the heart of the city’s premier business and residential district. Featuring 125 smartly designed rooms, the hotel will cater to the needs of modern travellers seeking comfort, simplicity, and efficiency. With its flexible workspaces, contemporary interiors, and energising public areas, the hotel will provide a seamless stay for both business and leisure guests in one of Egypt’s most dynamic new destinations. In parallel, The Five Hotel Apartments will offer 100 stylish serviced apartments designed for long-term stays and extended business visits. The property will combine the comfort of residential living with the convenience of hotel services, featuring wellness facilities, co-working zones, and social lounges. Positioned within “The Five,” a mixed-use development envisioned by Samco Holding, the hotel apartments will benefit from proximity to commercial centres, government offices, and lifestyle amenities, making it an ideal choice for professionals, families, and relocating executives. Sherif Beshara, Group CEO of Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group, commented: “We are pleased to join hands with Samco Holding, a company known for its pioneering role in Egypt’s urban transformation. The New Administrative Capital is a visionary project, and our collaboration reflects Ishraq Hospitality’s ambition to deliver world-class hospitality experiences in emerging destinations. We are confident that these properties will contribute meaningfully to the region’s development and become benchmarks of quality service in the market.” Hisham Taha, Chief Commercial Officer …

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has expanded its fleet with the addition of two Airbus A320 aircraft, bringing its total fleet size to 12 aircraft. This expansion is part of the airline’s ongoing growth strategy. The carrier also announced plans to add two more Airbus A320 aircraft before the end of the year. This planned fleet increase will boost total capacity by 40% in 2025, further reinforcing Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s commitment to the growth of Abu Dhabi’s aviation sector and the emirate’s broader economic development. Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia, said: “The addition of new aircraft and our strategic fleet expansion reflect our ongoing commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and expanding our network reach. This growth supports the rising demand for air travel to and from Abu Dhabi.” He added: “The planned capacity increase in 2025 will further contribute to the capital’s broader economic and tourism vision while continuing to offer value-driven air travel to our customers.” Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s recent network expansions include new routes to Yerevan, Almaty, and Sialkot, further broadening its reach. The airline now connects Abu Dhabi with non-stop service to over 30 destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, and Eastern Europe, offering seamless travel options for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Since its launch in 2020, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has emerged as a key enabler of air connectivity from the UAE capital, providing its customers with affordable and reliable air travel.

As Samsonite celebrates 115 years of redefining travel, the iconic luggage brand looks to the future with an unwavering commitment to sustainability, innovation, and consumer-centric design. TravTalk ME sat with Subrata Dutta President APAC and Middle East, Samsonite to find out about their journey – the past, present and future. Founded by Jesse Shwayder with a visionary focus on durability and conscious consumption long before sustainability became mainstream, Samsonite continues to lead by example. Its latest experiential store not only showcases innovative, eco-conscious products but also serves as a reflection of its deep-rooted philosophy: creating long-lasting travel solutions that align with the evolving needs of global travellers. From recycled materials to tech-forward features, Samsonite remains a timeless yet forward-thinking companion for modern, mindful travellers. For over a century, Samsonite has stood as a trusted name in travel, championing the founder Jesse Shwayder’s belief in durability, comfort, and responsibility. The brand’s philosophy has always centered around creating luggage that endures — not just in quality but in purpose. Today, as sustainability and innovation become global imperatives, Samsonite is more committed than ever to doing business responsibly. At the heart of this commitment is a new experiential retail concept that embodies the brand’s eco-conscious values. Beyond sleek displays and product range, the store educates consumers on sustainable materials, responsible manufacturing, and innovation — all designed to encourage more mindful purchasing without being overly didactic. Customers can explore the stories behind the materials — from recycled PET bottles turned into linings to reclaimed yogurt cups and washing machine tubs re-engineered into hard-shell cases. Since 2019, Samsonite has repurposed more than 250 million plastic bottles and introduced proprietary materials like Roxkin™, offering unmatched strength-to-weight …

Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers announced that it has joined Viya, the UAE’s leading lifestyle and rewards app. Through this partnership, guests and visitors can now enjoy exclusive offers and privileges at the hotel’s award-winning Conrad Spa, while earning rewards with every visit. Viya members will be able to access Conrad Spa’s bespoke treatments, state-of-the-art facilities, and tranquil surroundings, all while earning up to 10% back in rewards points on every transaction. Points can be redeemed on a variety of luxury experiences, including the spa’s signature treatments, dining venues, and other facilities at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Viya is a free-to-download app that connects members with more than 400 premium leisure, wellness, dining, and lifestyle destinations across the UAE. With Viya Access, the app’s luxury leisure pass, members also benefit from unlimited entry to selected fitness, entertainment, and wellness destinations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is proud to be part of this exclusive membership network, offering Viya members a seamless way to enjoy some of the capital’s most exceptional hospitality and wellness experiences.