The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects, The Red Sea destination and AMAALA, has revealed design plans for its state-of-the-art Marine Life Institute. Created by world-class architectural design firm Foster + Partners, the institute will function as both a scientific research center and a tourist destination. It will accelerate conservation-driven research, while offering visitors truly multidimensional experiences that bridge educational exhibitions with adventure-filled excursions. “We wanted to design a first-of-its-kind facility that extends far beyond any existing marine life attraction. With 10 zones that provide everything from augmented reality experiences to night diving, and spaces for the scientific community to effectively progress their environmental projects, the Marine Life Institute is undeniably unique. Not only will it drive global green and blue innovations, it will also help put Saudi Arabia on the map for travelers seeking trips that enrich their lives,” said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. “The institute will live in the Triple Bay marina at AMAALA, but is the beating heart of our broader ambitions to protect and enhance the thriving Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia. Through our expanding portfolio of projects we will share our valuable scientific discoveries with the world and enable our guests to experience the true beauty of our thriving coral reefs.” Expected to host up to 650 people at any one time, guests will be able to walk underwater, snorkel with rare species, participate in lab tours and dive the depths of the Red Sea in a submarine. A testament to TRSDC’s coral farming operations, the facility will also be home to one of the world’s largest man-made reefs, measuring an astonishing 40 meters …

Kuwait Airways announced the commencement of its first flight, KU409, to the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Sunday, 2 October 2022. Operations to Kuala Lumpur includes two flights per week on Sundays and Wednesdays, during the month of October, followed by three flights per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from the month of November onwards. On this occasion, Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Maen Razouqi, stated, “Kuwait Airways is pleased to launch its first commercial flights to the city of Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, which is one of our most important new destinations with its touristic prominence and rich diverse culture. Moreover, Kuala Lumpur also distinguishes itself as a suitable destination for holidays and is considered the cultural, financial, and economic hub of Malaysia and the Far East. We will be using the Airbus A330, which is environmentally friendly, and suitable for medium to long-haul destinations, with its unique features for the 8-hour flight from Kuwait to Kuala Lumpur.” Razouqi added, “The launch of Kuala Lumpur destination comes as part of the companys strategy to expand its network to various destinations and locations, linking Kuwait to the world with an excellent reach, and meeting the requirements of the local, regional, and global aviation market. In addition, the Blue Bird constantly strives to meet the requirements of its valued customers by operating to new and diverse destinations and providing them with better travel options. Launching this destination will also contribute to the development of business, tourism, trade, and economic activity, in addition to the movement of passengers and cargo.” Razouqi added, “Kuwait Airways is keen to serve its customers to the fullest, in line with …

The UAE is leading the way for travel, with 93% of people planning to go on holiday in the next 12 months, and half (45%) of all of these trips taking place imminently leading up to and through winter. The new research, released today by Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel programme, found that not only are so many people in the UAE planning to go on holiday before February 2023, but seven in 10 (70%) of those are planning to spend more on their holiday than in previous years, making sure it’s a trip to remember. Of those who are planning a holiday, more than three quarters (75%) plan to tick off somewhere on their travel bucket list this holiday season, with half (48%) eager to visit new destinations that they have never visited before. As a result of the pandemic, a third (33%) of UAE adults have missed discovering new places and cultures, leading to a fifth (20%) with the intention to travel more. Trips packed with excitement and exploration are high on the travel agenda, with almost a third (31%) of people from the UAE planning holidays that will allow them to be adventurous (13%), for example skydiving, soaking up the local culture (10%), or doing something experiential (8%) like attending an iconic sporting event. Furthermore, two fifths (40%) of people from the UAE have missed having quality time with loved ones on holiday, leading to over half (55%) of travellers wanting to travel with their family. What’s more, a fifth (20%) of people say travel that centres around spending time with the people tops their bucket list now. To inspire travellers from the UAE with their …

Emirates has announced new appointments to its commercial team in the Middle East, Far East, West Asia and Europe, to support the airline’s efforts in rebuilding its global network amidst the increase in travel demand and the easing of restrictions. This latest move will see 11 seasoned UAE Nationals positioned in vital markets where they will lead the airline’s commercial operations and bring their skills and experience to drive growth and develop new strategies. In addition, they will be responsible for strengthening Emirates’ partnerships and footprint in their assigned markets. Adnan Kazim, Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates commented: “As we accelerate our operations recovery and channel our collective energies towards rebuilding the aviation ecosystem, it’s imperative that we create opportunities for our talented managers to utilise their capabilities, experiences and leadership skills to the fullest. The commercial outstation program is in line with the strategy advocated by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, that reaffirms our commitment to nurturing Emiratis by providing them opportunities to advance their careers and eventually become future leaders. I’m proud of our UAE Nationals who support our business and represent the airline in some of its most strategic markets, and look forward to seeing the new team create innovative prospects into their new roles.” Effective 1st November, the following changes will occur in the Emirates Commercial team: Thani Al Ansari: currently Manager Kuwait and Iraq, will become Manager Ireland Khalid Al Zarooni: currently Manager Greece and Albania, will become Manager Kuwait and Iraq Ibrahim Ghanim: currently Manager Egypt and Libya, will become Manager Greece and Albania Abdalla Al Zamani: currently Manager Indonesia, will become Manager …

Kuwait Airways announces the signing of a partnership agreement with Air Europa by which both companies will increase their cooperation and provide better flight options to their valued customers. The outcome of this agreement which comes into force in the coming months, enables Kuwait Airways to also add Air Europa’s code on the three direct weekly flights Kuwait Airways operates between Kuwait and Madrid, as well as in Kuwait Airways operations in other European cities such as Amsterdam, Rome, Frankfurt, and Munich. On its part, Kuwait Airways reinforces its presence in the Americas by placing its code on Air Europas transatlantic flights that connect Madrid with Cancun, Miami, Cuba, Sao Paulo, and Bogotá. Moreover, Kuwait Airways will have its code on Air Europa flights between Madrid and the Portuguese cities of Porto and Lisbon, Moroccan city Marrakech, and on all domestic routes within Spain. Speaking on this occasion, the Director of Network Planning and Distribution, Mrs. Shorouk Al-Awadhi, expressed her happiness over the signing of this partnership agreement which will strengthen the commercial relationship between both sides. She said, “Kuwait has a very strong, long-standing relationship with Spain and this agreement with Air Europa comes at a time when the industry is trying to overcome the pandemic and I am sure this relationship will not only benefit both the airlines, but also the people of the Americas, Europe, and the Gulf. Moreover, the agreement will add 18 new destinations to the Kuwait Airways network, 10 of which are in Spain and a further 8 international destinations into Europe, North & South America, and Mexico.” Al-Awadhi added that its flights into Madrid currently stand as three flights a week, moreover, this …

Stella Stays announces its expansion into Egypt, introducing a prime location in New Cairo city, through its agreement with Tameer. The agreement that Mr Mohammed Al Ghussein, Chairman of Stella Stays and Mr Saad Al Wazzan, Chairman of Tameer signed in a ceremony on September 27th, 2022 and will mark the joint endeavour between the two companies to build communities rather than general structures, a new living experience rather than dull spaces, to create life and stories within the development. Through this agreement, Stella Stays aims to disrupt Egypt’s residential real estate sector landscape alongside Tameer, Egypt’s well-established residential developer driving the pulse and progression of the housing market since 1954. The highly-anticipated Stella Stays AZ Homes, strategically located in a prime spot in the midst of the bustling New Cairo city, is within fifteen minutes from Cairo International Airport, ten minutes from both downtown Katameya and walking distance from the American University in Cairo; making it highly attractive not only foreign travellers and expats but also local residents. In line with Stella Stay’s modern approach, the property will offer ready-to-live, smart apartments with open kitchens, as well as modern recreational and commercial amenities. The project is unique as it encourages an ever-so-inviting, community-driven lifestyle and provides a social neighbourhood where residents enjoy large open kitchens, outdoor deck and lounge, a swimming pool, an outdoor gym, a cinema theatre and co-working spaces. Stella Stays EZ Homes are well-crafted with facilities that fit every lifestyle, all at the residents’ fingertips. Residents and guests will be able to use the Stella Stays app to navigate the entire journey – from finding, booking and managing their stays, checking in, controlling smart home systems, …

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has launched the inaugural Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report, a comprehensive study of the city’s gastronomy scene, further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a much sought-after global destination for food tourism. The special report was unveiled at the first gastronomy industry briefing hosted by DET at the W Dubai  Mina Seyahi, and was attended by more than 100 restaurateurs, culinary specialists and key stakeholders from the food and beverage sector, to share seasonal highlights in relation to the ever-expanding gastronomy sector, and reveal industry insights from the city’s inaugural gastronomy report. The event was hosted as part of Dubai’s efforts to build upon the destination’s year-round programme of key foodie events, gourmet showcases and culinary platforms, to further strengthen the city’s dynamic ecosystem of around 13,000 restaurants and cafés. During the briefing, opportunities in the gastronomy sector and forthcoming calendar highlights were shared with partners to get their support to further enhance the city’s reputation as a year-round global gastronomy hub. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) revealed key findings from the newly commissioned annual industry report during the event, showcasing the gastronomy activities and initiatives which continue to be a driving force behind the steady growth in both domestic and international tourists, in line with the visionary leadership’s goal to make Dubai the world’s best city in the world to live in, work and visit.  This insightful research has reaffirmed Dubai’s standing as an international hub for gastronomy, and a beacon for visionary restaurateurs, chefs, discerning foodies, epicurean travellers and culinary aficionados. The inaugural ‘Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report’ highlights that Dubai’s vibrant and stimulating food scene is a direct reflection …

Mustafa Sultan Enterprises signed an agreement with Marriott International to debut the first Four Points by Sheraton in Oman, scheduled to open in early 2024. Operated by Valor Hospitality Partners, a third-party hotel management and development company, Four Points by Sheraton Muscat will offer a centralized location for both business and leisure travellers in Qurum. “It gives me great pleasure to announce our first franchise collaboration with Marriott International in the Middle East as we expand our full-service hotel management services in the region. We are honoured to have Mustafa Sultan Enterprises, a trusted and established owner, for our first property in Oman,” said Julien Bergue, Co-founder and Managing Partner, Valor Hospitality Middle East & CIS. “We are working closely with the ownership and Marriott International on the full renovation plan,” Bergue continued. Expected to feature 201 guest rooms, the hotel will also offer visitors ballroom and conference facilities, leisure and fitness amenities, and multiple food and beverage venues. Four Points by Sheraton Muscat is anticipated to reflect the brand’s promise of ‘travel reinvented’, providing everything that matters most to today’s travellers seeking balance on the road, including timeless style and comfort with genuine service. Shabeer Mustafa Sultan, Chairman of Mustafa Sultan Enterprises, said, “We are thrilled to work with Valor Hospitality Middle East and Marriott International to bring the Four Points by Sheraton brand to Oman.  This collaboration points to a full renovation and rebranding investment that supports our mission to create long-term value for the tourism, real estate and leisure sectors across Oman. It also supports the vision of Oman’s leaders, particularly in the upscale hotel segment.” Saahil Lalit, Vice President, Development – UAE and Oman, Marriott International …

Thynk announced its partnership with Saudi Arabia-based Dur Hospitality, a leading Saudi hospitality company recognized for its extensive record in managing, developing, and operating a broad portfolio of hotels and residential compounds across the Kingdom, at the Future Hospitality Summit in Dubai. Developed by hoteliers for hoteliers and powered by Salesforce®, the world’s largest Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform, Thynk.Cloud is designed to simplify and automate sales, operations, decision making, and data management for hotels of any size. The partnership will enable the sales organization at Dur Hospitality to further enhance the way they manage their B2B business relationships and maximize their sales productivity and efficiency. Pascal Petit, Co-founder & CEO at Thynk.Cloud, said: “We are excited to be working with Dur Hospitality, a company at the forefront of our industry when it comes to modern hospitality, agility and innovation. Together, our goal is to deliver a smart, modern system that not just streamlines processes and drives efficiency but enables hotel teams to deliver a unique guest experience, whether that’s in one of the Group’s branded hotels or in an independently managed property.” Commenting on the announcement, President of Hotel Operations at Dur Hospitality, Hassan Ahdab, said: “Our collaboration with Thynk provides an immense opportunity to interconnect our processes further and accelerate enhanced customer experiences. Thynk’s innovative digital ecosystem will drive personalization across our properties, amplifying our customer-centric approach and empowering our team members to make data-driven decisions in real-time while communicating with ”one voice”. Together, we will take customer-focused service to the next level”. “We have a shared vision to make hospitality an attractive and rewarding career for the next generation of hoteliers. We are committed to providing hotel …

The first day of Tfest Dubai kicked off with Tourism Ireland showcasing their luxury offerings to the most influential buyers across the globe in Dubai. 14 iconic luxury island of Ireland industry partners joined in the event, including Adare Manor, Ashford Castle, Cashel Palace Hotel, Galgorm, Culloden Estate, Hayfield Manor, K Club, The Merrion Hotel, The Shelbourne Hotel, MHL Collection, Trump Hotel & Golf Resort Doonbeg, Irelands Blue Book, By Appointment DMC and Luxurious Ireland. As part of their afternoon Experiences on the Tourism Ireland stand in the Global Village they brought in their concept to life showcasing Ireland through unique experiences under the title – ‘Awakening your senses in Ireland’ and they brought in friends from Ireland who brought this to life. Speaking to Tourism breaking news Olivia Frawley – Executive Pan Market Luxury, Tourism Ireland shared,” we are very excited to be here at Tfest this year as we elevated our partnership with the event, as we felt that  it provided us a great opportunity to highlight the 14 wonderful partners we brought with us to Tfest with our luxury messaging and warm hospitality. We have a mixture of beautiful five star luxury hotels, DMCs, experiences and the most amazing is the fact that we have 14 of them and all situated in the same area, the global village and everyone is busy with their B2B meetings. We are showcasing our products ranging from castles to iconic city center hotels to luxurious hotels and properties in the countryside. What we love about Tfest that they provide us the opportunity for our partners and Tourism Ireland to really create relationships and that one on one time to network with …