dnata has extended its long-standing partnership with GOL Airlines (GOL), a leading Brazilian low-cost carrier.  The extension of the contract will see dnata continue to provide a range of passenger, ramp and baggage services to the airline, ensuring a seamless airport experience for over 19 million passengers and safe and timely departure of up to 133,000 flights annually across 20 airports in Brazil. dnata’s latest contract win cements its position as the leading ground services provider in Brazil. David Barker, dnata’s Divisional Senior Vice President for Airport Operations, said: “We are proud to extend our successful partnership with GOL Airlines across their extensive Brazilian operations. We will continue to work hard to provide the highest level of quality and safety for the airline and its customers, every day.” André Cruz, GOL’s COO, said: “dnata is an important partner for GOL since 2016, providing excellent services in more than 20 cities in Brazil. This extension strengthens even more our partnership and offers to our customers the best airport experience.” dnata has recently increased its investment in Brazil to become the sole shareholder of its local subsidiary. In recent years dnata Brazil has significantly expanded its footprint in the country and currently serves more than 15 airlines at 29 airports with a team of 5,000 local aviation professionals. David Barker added:  “Our increased investment in Brazil underscores our commitment to the South American market, our highly-trained team and global customers. We see excellent growth opportunities and strong demand for our reliable and safe services across the continent. We will seize opportunities to further enhance our offering and consistently deliver world-class quality in Brazil and beyond. “Globally, we will continue to go the …

In keeping its position as the adventure tourism hub in the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah will host the second edition of HIGHLANDER’s specially designed two-and three-day hikes on Jebel Jais to take place 18 – 20 November, offering hikers and nature enthusiasts a thrilling adventure atop UAE’s highest peak. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “Ras Al Khaimah is well known as the nature Emirate, with its combination of sea, desert and mountains. Drawing on this natural heritage, we’ve worked closely with the local community to preserve the surrounding ecosystem, resulting in some of the most developed hiking trails in the region. As leaders in global adventure, we welcome HIGHLANDER for the second year to revisit some of their favourite trails on Jebel Jais and to discover new paths of exploration.” Fadi Hachicho, Managing Director of HIGHLANDER UAE and Founder of Adventurati Outdoor, said: “Last year’s HIGHLANDER event saw Ras Al Khaimah welcome 158 adventurers from the UAE and other European countries to explore the Emirate’s unique mountain ecosystem. I am so excited to host a second edition where, together with the Authority, we will immerse the HIGHLANDER community in the natural beauty of our Emirate, reinforce the wellbeing attributes of outdoor activities and show the importance of preserving and nature for future generations.” Soaring rockscapes, rugged canyons, winding pathways and mesmerizing views of the Arabian Gulf – the Hajar Mountains are a breath-taking celebration of nature that makes hiking in Ras Al Khaimah truly unforgettable. From 18 – 20 November, hikers at home and abroad have a unique opportunity to explore the secrets of the mountains with HIGHLANDER Ras Al Khaimah 2022. …

Qatar Aviation Services (QAS), the subsidiary of Qatar Airways Group, announced its partnership with International Air Transport Association (IATA) to become the first ground handler globally to join the new expansion of the IATA Environmental Assessment Programme (IEnvA) for ground service providers. The IEnvA programme for ground service provides a framework for achieving environmental sustainability across all ground operations. Taking advantage of the knowledge and experience garnered from the airline programme, ground service providers can rely on its definitive guidance to reduce their impact on the environment, and improving health and safety for both employees and the community, while maintaining operational efficiency. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “I am proud to lead the efforts to create a sustainable aviation industry. Environmental sustainability awareness across the entire organisation is critical to the success of Qatar Airways Group. Through IEnvA, Qatar Aviation Services will be able to demonstrate the value of environmental compliance and ensure sustainability in its operations.” IATA’s Director General, Mr. Willie Walsh, said: “We’re delighted to count Qatar Aviation Services as the first ground handler to join the newly extended IATA’s IEnvA programme. Sustainability is a critical challenge for our industry. By taking proactive steps to measure their impacts and address them throughout their operations with IEnvA, QAS and Qatar Airways Group will back their sustainability achievements with the most comprehensive global standard environmental certification available in the industry”. Qatar Aviation Services, managed by the Senior Vice President, Mr. Mehmet Murat Nursel, is committed to minimising the environmental impact of its operations, playing an instrumental role in helping Hamad International Airport gain its world-class standing as environmental leader amongst airports globally. Through …

According to the latest passenger data shared by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for June 2022 shows that the recovery in air travel remains strong. Middle Eastern airlines’ traffic rose 246.5% in June compared to June 2021. June capacity rose 102.4% versus the year-ago period, and load factor climbed 32.4 percentage points to 78.0%. Total traffic in June 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) was up 76.2% compared to June 2021, primarily propelled by the ongoing strong recovery in international traffic. Globally, traffic is now at 70.8% of pre-crisis levels. Domestic traffic for June 2022 was up 5.2% compared to the year-ago period. Strong improvements in most markets, combined with the easing of some Omicron-related lockdown restrictions in the Chinese domestic market, contributed to the result. Total June 2022 domestic traffic was at 81.4% of the June 2019 level. International traffic rose 229.5% versus June 2021. The lifting of travel restrictions in most parts of Asia-Pacific is contributing to the recovery. June 2022 international RPKs reached 65.0% of June 2019 levels. “Demand for air travel remains strong. After two years of lockdowns and border restrictions people are taking advantage of the freedom to travel wherever they can,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. Asia-Pacific airlines had a 492.0% rise in June traffic compared to June 2021. Capacity rose 138.9% and the load factor was up 45.8 percentage points to 76.7%. The region is now relatively open to foreign visitors and tourism which is helping foster the recovery. European carriers’ June traffic rose 234.4% versus June 2021. Capacity rose 134.5%, and load factor climbed 25.8 percentage points to 86.3%. International traffic within Europe is above pre-pandemic levels in …

The fifth edition of Gulf Travel Show (GTS) to be held on 28th and 29th September 2022 will focus on the need of the time, sustainable tourism. Over the years, sustainability in travel, tourism and hospitality had been in the shadows working its way slowly but steadily. However, when UNWTO announced its commitment for the year on sustainability, all attention and initiatives will be to ensure that this becomes a focus across the globe. Gulf Travel Show (GTS) is the only event which was built in with a purpose. When it first started out just after the pandemic whilst most borders were still closed, it gave the travel, tourism and hospitality fraternity an opportunity to ensure that confidence is restored in the minds of the people passionate about the industry. It was also a tool which connected online GCC buyers with exhibitors from across the globe. The fifth edition or GTS 5.0 demonstrates its commitment to uphold its social responsibility to ensure less carbon emissions yet bring all players to the table and learn and study the stakes, the many opportunities to make things right after a bout of almost two and a half years of pandemic era. Sustainability has many layers to be addressed, it is no longer a word to be utilized and passed on as a mere CSR activity, hence it is a commitment to ensure that everyone has a part to play on mother earth. Starting off with airlines and their biofuel capabilities, hotels and their sustainable strategies, tourism boards which provide and maintain sustainable goals to ensure that the country or destination promoted will not be perturbed, undisturbed, instead leave in its natural state. When …

SAUDIA inaugurated the first direct flight to its new international destination Zurich, Switzerland in collaboration with the Air Connectivity Program. To commemorate the occasion, SAUDIA organized an inauguration ceremony at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh in the presence of the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Switzerland to the Kingdom, Dr. Andreas Schaller, the Chief Commercial Officer of SAUDIA, Mr. Arved Nikolaus Von Zur Muhlen, the VP Strategy & Communication from the Air Connectivity Program, Mr. Sultan Alotaify, and the VP of Route Development Ms. Anita Gackowska, along with a number of government officials working at the airport. At the departure gate, a ribbon cutting ceremony took place to launch the new route as SAUDIA employees bid farewell to the traveling guests. Mr. Muhlen, the CCO of SAUDIA stated, “With continuous support from the Air Connectivity Program, we at SAUDIA are excited to begin transporting passengers along the milestone route, effectively utilizing our fleet of 150 premium aircraft to best accommodate travelers to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia”. Mr. Sultan Otaify, the Vice President of Strategy and Communications of The Air Connectivity Program, indicated that this type of fruitful local partnerships is a foundation stone for a series of future partnerships that aim to support and stimulate the aviation sector, establish new air routes and enhance the pace of flights, which contributes to the development of tourism in the kingdom. The aircraft was received with a water salute to welcome the first direct flight from Saudi Arabia in Zurich International Airport where SAUDIA held another celebration for the return flight from Zurich to Riyadh in line with its goal to bring the world to the Kingdom. The …

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and Skift Inc., will host the inaugural Skift Global Forum East in Dubai from December 13-15, 2022. This event is the first-ever international extension of the world’s flagship travel conference: Skift Global Forum, held each September in New York City for the last decade. The conference has welcomed over 1000 global industry leaders, providing a forum to discuss the latest industry developments and emerging trends. Skift Global Forum East will assemble top CEOs and creative leaders to explore initiatives shaping the industry post-pandemic— the intersection of technology and marketing, consumer-facing advances across user experience and design, sustainability’s ever-increasing role in the business of travel, how progressive modern economies prioritize travel as their future economic engine, and much more. Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, commented: “In rolling out a remarkable recovery strategy, Dubai has also won global acclaim for the series of measures it has taken to further elevate its international standing as a leading hub for business, tourism and events including the hosting of the hugely successful Expo 2020. As Dubai continues to build on the successes of a robust and meticulous post pandemic recovery strategy, Skift Global Forum East will serve as a platform for collaborative dialogue, future thinking and innovation showcase to help shape a sustainable and agile future for the wider travel and tourism industry. We look forward to welcoming partners and leaders from all over the world in Dubai for what will no doubt be an incredible two days of insights and learning for us all.” Rafat Ali, founder and CEO of Skift, said: “I am excited to expand our premier Skift Global Forum …

Al Khoory Hotels announced the official opening of their latest 4-star property, Al Khoory Courtyard Hotel in Dubai. Centrally located on Al Waha Street, off Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, the property delivers a blend of quality accommodation, facilities and amenities twinned with exceptional value. Conveniently located in a central location, the Al Khoory Courtyard Hotel provides easy access to Dubai International Airport. For families, the location is close to a myriad of attractions in Downtown, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah, while business travellers will enjoy the short distances to hubs such as Business Bay and the forthcoming District 2020. The hotel comprises 158 rooms categorised into eight configurations, ranging from the superior and deluxe rooms to the premium and Courtyard suites. Guests can choose from four distinctive dining experiences, including the authentic Al Baha Levantine Restaurant. Guests can relax in the spa and rooftop infinity pool or explore the many attractions and shopping destinations on the hotel’s doorstep. Jeff Isaacs, Hotel Manager, Al Khoory Courtyard Hotel, said: “Al Khoory Hotels has seen incredible growth in recent years thanks to our strategic position in business and leisure hubs throughout Dubai. Each of our properties offers unrivalled connectivity, and the Courtyard Hotel is no exception. “Guests to the new property will have access to world-class amenities and excellent F&B outlets, emphasising quality at unbeatable value. Our popularity and growth as a company are in recognition of our superior service, with business travellers, leisure visitors and families returning year after year.”   The hotel is Shariah-compliant, and all rooms are non-smoking with connecting room facilities available, making the Courtyard the ideal choice for families. The management team has also focused on adopting local …

Having promoted the destination heavily during Expo 2020 and at Discover Europe Travel Summit in Dubai, Switzerland tourism continues to work with the travel trade from the GCC to experience the destination physically. According to Matthias Albrecht, Director GCC, Switzerland Tourism, they will be further enhancing cooperation with the GCC travel trade in two very important roadshows. Albrecht reiterated, “GCC travel trade is most important to us and for the next quarter we have planned two events, one to be held in Switzerland by inviting the most important decision makers in the travel trade and the other one will be visiting around 30 Swiss partners within all GCC countries. The first workshop will be conducted in Switzerland for GCC travel trade in September with 50 – 60 key decision makers from the GCC being already invited. This workshop will give them an opportunity to interact directly with over 80 Swiss tourism suppliers as well as to learn more about new places, different areas, latest attractions, new hotels, and other experiences offered. The second roadshow will be in November in the GCC where we will meet around 600 to 700 agents from the GCC.” Switzerland has been promoting their Swisstainable initiative with the GCC and the rest of the world in making tourism more sustainable. The four pillars of this project will also be shared during the roadshows and workshop planned for the rest of the year.

In a recent interview with Tracy Lanza Group Head of Global Brand Development at The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), shared that the development of The Red Sea Project will be in two phases, one to be completed by end of 2023 and second to be completed by 2030. She reiterated, “we’re looking forward to welcoming our first guests early next year. Following that, the first phase will be fully completed and operational by the end of 2023. It will include 16 resorts for a total of 3,000 keys, 18-hole championship golf course, luxury marina, and retail and entertainment facilities. Phase two is scheduled for completion in 2030, and will include 50 resorts with 8,000 keys, and 1,000+ residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites.” Commenting further that the work is on track in order to welcome guests, “We’re fortunate to be able to partner with some of the world’s most iconic hotel brands, including EDITION, St Regis, Fairmont, Raffles, SLS, Grand Hyatt, Intercontinental, Six Senses, Jumeirah, Miraval, Rosewood and Ritz Carlton Reserve. Some of these will be able to host their first guests by early next year, while others will open their doors in the months following.” In keeping with the Vision 2030 of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Lanza shared, “The project supports the Saudi vision through the development of a brand-new tourism industry that has not existed in the Kingdom before. It will open the door for thousands of young Saudis to pursue new careers and opportunities. We expect to create up to 70,000 new jobs and contribute as a much as 22 billion Saudi riyals (USD 5.3 billion) to the nation’s GDP.”