Kuwait Airways Chairman, Captain Abdulmohsen Salem Al-Fagaan, announced a strategic drive to elevate the national carrier’s customer experience through innovative partnerships. Over the past year, the airline signed a landmark agreement with Saudi Railways Company (SAR), enabling passengers to book Haramain High-Speed Railway tickets directly with the airline. It also launched a diploma program in aviation sciences with the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training to build future talent. Strengthened alliances with Saudia, Amadeus, and FlexFlight further expand travel options, digital solutions, and seamless connectivity for passengers.

As part of the UAE’s celebrations of Emirati Women’s Day 2025, held under the theme ‘Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years,’ the Ministry of Economy and Tourism took part in the ‘Women’s Economy Dialogue’ in Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China. The event was aimed at strengthening the global presence of Emirati women, highlighting their remarkable achievements, and fostering international partnerships between successful women leaders in the economic sector in both the UAE and China. These efforts align with the UAE wise leadership’s vision to support and empower women and to reinforce their role in shaping the future. The UAE delegation participating in the event – organized by the Consulate General of the UAE in Guangzhou was led by H.E. Badreya Al Maidoor, Assistant Undersecretary for the Support Services Sector at the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, and included H.E. Mariam Alshamsi, Consul General of the UAE in Guangzhou; Emirati entrepreneur Maryam Al Mansoori, General Manager of Rebound; as well as representatives from Sky River and Esaal. H.E. Badreya Al Maidoor affirmed that the empowerment of women remains one of the UAE’s strategic priorities, in line with the wise leadership’s vision to support Emirati women and enhance their role in shaping the nation’s economic future. She emphasized that since its founding, the UAE has adopted a pioneering approach to positioning women as active partners in the country’s development journey, through supportive policies, legislation, and initiatives across both the public and private sectors – making women’s participation in national development a key driver of the UAE’s regional and global competitiveness. Her Excellency said: “We take pride in the remarkable achievements of Emirati women across all sectors. Through this dialogue, we aim …

SalamAir announced a strategic expansion of its global distribution reach through a new dual partnership with Hahnair. This collaboration will make SalamAir flights even more accessible to travel agents and passengers across 190 markets. Through Hahnair’s interline products, SalamAir’s flights are now available for ticketing under the airline’s own OV code in the Sabre Global Distribution System (GDS), as well as under Hahnair Technologies’ X1 code in major GDSs. This dual access enables travel agents to conveniently book and issue tickets on SalamAir through standard reservation and ticketing procedures in Sabre GDS. “Partnering with Hahnair significantly strengthens our commercial distribution strategy, enabling us to tap into new sales channels and reach travel agents in 190 markets”, said Steven Allen, Chief Commercial Officer of SalamAir. “By expanding our booking and ticketing accessibility, we are creating more opportunities to drive sales, grow our international footprint, and position SalamAir competitively in key markets.” With this partnership, SalamAir continues to advance its mission of making air travel more accessible, affordable, and reliable for passengers worldwide. By combining an expanding network, a modern fuel-efficient fleet, and strong global distribution capabilities, the airline is well-positioned to capture new market opportunities, support Oman’s connectivity, and deliver greater value to its customers and trade partners.

UAE based property developer The First Group has confirmed that Ciel, the world’s tallest hotel and the firm’s largest and most ambitious project to date, will officially open in the final quarter of 2025. Located in Dubai Marina, the striking 82-storey tower will redefine upscale hospitality in one of the city’s most iconic waterfront precincts. Designed by leading architectural firm NORR, Ciel will feature Dubai’s highest infinity pool, world-class dining options, a rooftop lounge and club, a luxury spa, and an observation deck with panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian Gulf. Featuring more than 1,000 guestrooms and suites, the mega hotel will also house a fully equipped fitness centre and Nest executive lounge. Operated by The First Group Hospitality, Ciel will be part of IHG’s Vignette Collection, a prestigious global portfolio of one-of-a-kind hotels that deliver memorable, design-led guest experiences. As a member of the Collection, Ciel will tap into IHG’s extensive global network, including its renowned loyalty programme, IHG One Rewards, which has millions of members worldwide.

Safir Sohag Egypt is slated to open by Q2 2026 with 385 rooms and suites in the historic city of Akhmim, Egypt. Safir Blom Sohag overlooks the Eastern Nile Corniche with meeting rooms, wedding hall and restaurants. Among its other facilities are health club, gym, spa and swimming pool. The hotel is an ideal bleisure getaway with its location and views. Safir Hotels & Resorts remains dedicated to strengthening its regional and international footprint while remaining true to its heritage of warmth, quality, and exceptional service.    

Qatar Tourism, through the Service Excellence Academy, has concluded the first edition of the ‘Junior Tourism Guidance Program – Summer Camp’, which aims to inspire Qatari youth through interactive tourism activities at Qatar Museums. Two groups of different ages participated in the camp, reflecting Qatar Tourism’s ongoing commitment to skills development and tourism awareness among the local community, and the first batch of young tour guides were honored on the final day at the National Museum of Qatar in the presence of parents and partners. Commenting on the programme, Omar Abdulrahman Al Jaber, Head of Tourism Development at Qatar Tourism, said: “Qatar Tourism is committed to providing more programs and initiatives that serve our local community through the Service Excellence Academy. Through this camp, children have learned valuable skills such as storytelling, teamwork, and discovering Qatar’s rich heritage. These skills are not only tools for tourism guidance, but they are also keys to self-confidence and successful communication for our children from the next generation of future tourism ambassadors to encourage our children, as you may be a tour guide or an expert in the tourism industry who carries Qatar’s message to the world.” The program has seen close cooperation with Qatar Museums, with the National Museum of Qatar hosting the closing ceremony, providing a learning space and organizing educational guided tours for children. The 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum provided the activity area during the first two days of the program, while the MIA education team worked with Qatar Tourism to deliver an innovative learning experience through an “escape room.” Other teams from Qatar Museums also coordinated logistical aspects, such as securing galleries, booking sites, and ensuring that the …

As part of its ongoing efforts to facilitate travel procedures for its valued passengers, Kuwait Airways has announced the launch of a self-service check-in system at Terminal 4 (T4). This service enables passengers to complete self-check-in procedures, including baggage weighing and the issuance of boarding passes. Kuwait Airways Chairman, Captain Abdulmohsen Salem Al-Fagaan, stated, “Kuwait Airways is pleased to announce the launch of the self-check-in service, which enables passengers to weigh their baggage and issue their boarding passes, without the need for staff assistance, thereby completing the procedures quickly.” Al-Fagaan stated that this initiative is part of Kuwait Airways’ ongoing efforts to facilitate the check-in process for passengers, ensure the smooth completion of travel procedures, and reduce congestion, particularly with the onset of the busy summer travel season. He added that the company will soon release an instructional video to guide passengers on how to complete the procedures easily and conveniently. Al-Fagaan emphasized Kuwait Airways’ commitment to ensuring a seamless travel experience for its valued passengers—beginning from the moment they enter the terminal, through the efficient completion of all travel procedures, and continuing onboard, where they are provided with exceptional service by the cabin crew, in addition to enjoying state-of-the-art entertainment programs, and a comfortable, relaxing flight. He pointed out that Kuwait Airways is committed to providing the most advanced and best services that reflect its dedication to its valued passengers, which has contributed to increased customer satisfaction and an enhanced travel experience. He explained that the company spares no effort in ensuring all means of comfort for its customers. Al-Fagaan concluded his statement by reaffirming Kuwait Airways’ commitment to its strategic goal of delivering the highest standards of service quality, …

In the GCC alone, the event and exhibition market is expected to reach US$827 million by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 3.94%. Panel hosted by TravTalk ME with San Jeet, CEO, DDP Publications moderating the session shared, following the global success of mega-events such as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and Expo 2020 Dubai, momentum is building across the region as Saudi Arabia prepares to host the 2034 World Cup. Discussing the evolution and impact of these events, panellists including H.E. Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority; Sebastien Doussin, Senior Vice President – Global Travel Services & Destination Management. dnata and Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), shared fascinating insights at ATM 2025, where the events industry was under the spotlight. ‘Big-ticket’ events are playing a pivotal role in driving international tourism and accelerating economic growth, according to experts speaking recently at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. The panel addressed how big-ticket events – so-called for their high value, cost and impact have demonstrated their ability to attract millions of international visitors, boost hotel occupancy, stimulate infrastructure growth and generate long-term brand positioning for host destinations. Highlighting the importance of understanding the long-term strategic value of big-ticket events beyond immediate sales, H.E. Khalid Jassim Al Midfa commented: “Big-ticket events provide a destination with an opportunity to establish brand positioning and exposure in a competitive global environment. These events play a vital role in supporting broader government objectives, but it is essential to invest in the right product for your destination.” Doussin reaffirmed the importance of large-scale events in destination positioning, referencing the growth of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the …

Qatar Airways has selected The New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as its new home in New York. The carrier will move its operations to the state-of-the-art terminal in 2026 and unveil a premium, 15,000-square-foot Qatar Airways lounge – the airline’s first dedicated lounge in both New York City and the United States. The airline’s move to the New Terminal One and the opening of its first dedicated lounge at JFK Airport is in line with Qatar Airways’ commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience, and reflects the strategic importance of New York City in Qatar Airways’ global network. Offering efficient direct access to the boarding gate from Qatar Airways’ exclusive lounge, the new facility will provide an elevated experience featuring premium food and beverage options and best-in-class amenities including VIP check-in services, relaxation zones, prayer rooms, children’s play areas, premium dining options, and duty-free shopping for Qatar Airways Business Class passengers. In partnership with Qatar Airways, the New Terminal One will deliver an exceptional guest experience from arrival to departure. The terminal’s modern architecture, light-filled spaces and advanced technology will ensure a seamless and relaxing customer journey that complements Qatar Airways’ world-renowned onboard service. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We, at Qatar Airways, look forward to launching our operations at JFK Airport’s New Terminal One and welcoming Qatar Airways Business Class passengers to our first-ever exclusive lounge in the US. Our new state-of-the-art lounge will provide an enhanced experience at each touchpoint and complement our industry-leading Business Class travel experience. From dedicated airport transfers to VIP check-in to the finest of retail and dining options, premium passengers …

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) revealed the biggest names in the travel and tourism industry as headline speakers for its milestone 25th Global Summit in Rome. Hashil Al Mahrouqi, CEO, OMRAN Group, Anthony Capuano, CEO, Marriott International are among the glittering line-up of some of the most influential figures shaping the future of the sector. From the 28 – 30 September, the Eternal City will play host to a gathering of global business leaders from across business, government, and media, as the Global Summit returns to Europe in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.  Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We’re thrilled to have such a distinguished group of speakers already confirmed for our Global Summit in Rome. “The Eternal City provides a perfect backdrop for a Summit where the world’s Travel & Tourism leaders will gather to innovate, collaborate, and drive a decade of exceptional, sustainable growth.” Taking place at the iconic Auditorium Parco della Musica, the event will set the stage for high-impact debates and bold commitments on the issues defining Travel & Tourism. From the game-changing potential of AI to shaping the future of a sector that generates 10% of global GDP. The first confirmed speakers include: Minor Hotel Group, Founder & Chairman, William E. Heinecke Virtuoso, Founder & CEO, Matthew Upchurch Trip.com Group, CEO, Jane Sun, CEO TBO.Com, Co-Founder, Gaurav Bhatnagar Diriyah Company, Group CEO, Jerry Inzerillo MSC Cruises, Executive Chairman of Cruise, Pierfrancesco Vago Arsenale Spa, CEO, Paolo Barletta IC Bellagio, CEO – Sole Founder, Andrea Grisdale The Bicester Collection, Chair & Global Chief Merchant, Desiree Bollier Marriott International, CEO, …