Cruise Saudi and Al Madinah Region Development Authority signed an MoU to foster economic development in historic Al Madinah Region. This will develop the region and expand facilities to accommodate an increased number of tourists, with a focus on social impact both locally and across Saudi, in line with Vision 2030. Both Al Madinah Region Development Authority and Cruise Saudi share the vision to advance and aid access to Al Madinah, developing the region and expanding facilities to accommodate an increased number of tourists. As part of the agreement, both parties will utilize their capabilities and experiences to achieve their shared vision. The MoU signing took place at this year’s Saudi Tourism Forum in Riyadh, the annual event which promotes Saudi as a tourist destination, and which provided the perfect backdrop for both parties to mark their intent to enhance the tourism offering in the region of Al Madinah. Madinah is the second holiest city in Islam, with beautiful architecture in abundance, such as the vast Al-Masjid an-Nabawi mosque with its striking green dome dominating the skyline, sites of historic interest such as the The Ghars Well (also known as Bir Ghars) and Mount Uhud which was the site of the second battle between the Islamic prophet Muhammad and the polytheists of his tribe of Quraysh, and impressive natural landmarks of farms and valleys. The Al Madinah region has a multitude of historic wonders to explore, as well as modern sights including the coastal city of Yanbu. Cruise Saudi will facilitate cruise passengers’ visits to the region via the Red Sea. Mashhoor Baeshen, Executive Director, Destinations Development & Management at Cruise Saudi said “Unique in history and culture, Al Madinah …

Construction of Bandar Al Khairan Resort worth RO 36m Started in Oman. The resort will include 121 hotel rooms, as well as various types of facilities, restaurants, spas and gyms on an area of 189,000 sqm. A ceremony was held to celebrate the start of construction work of the project which was designed to be a qualitative addition to the tourism sector in Oman. According to Oman News Agency, Salim Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, patron of the inauguration event, said that the project will support the tourism sector in Muscat. Al Mahrouqi added that the resort will meet the aspirations of guests and residents. The Ministry, he affirmed, will follow-up on the implementation of the project to augment local added value and provide job opportunities for Omani youth. The project will provide various opportunities for small and medium enterprises in Al Khairan and adjacent areas to offer their products and services.

His Excellency Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNOC, and members of ADNOC’s executive leadership team, joined Etihad Rail’s first rail journey that connects the cities of Abu Dhabi and Al Dhannah. Once operational, the rail service, which is currently under development, will enable ADNOC’s staff and contractors to travel between the two destinations. Following the milestone rail journey, His Excellency Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber toured ADNOC’s world-scale downstream and petrochemicals hub in Al Ruwais Industrial City, during which he was updated on strategic growth projects at Borouge 4, ADNOC Refining and the Ruwais LNG project. His Excellency Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said: “ADNOC’s partnership with Etihad Rail is fully aligned with our strategic priorities to successfully implement transport solutions that contribute to the UAE’s development and future prosperity. In line with our leadership’s visionary directives and under the supervision of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Head of the Office of Development Affairs and Martyrs’ Families at the Presidential Court, and Chairman of Etihad Rail, the development of passenger rail services between Abu Dhabi City and Al Dhannah City aims to connect the UAE’s main centres of trade, industry, manufacturing, production, logistics and population. The Etihad Rail project is more than just a rail network, it will serve as a vital artery for economic growth and infrastructure development while driving decarbonisation, for the benefit of the UAE and its people. “I am proud of our world-class facilities in Al Ruwais Industrial City and the commitment and dedication of our staff, who are passionate to showcase our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. …

In his capacity as Ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has issued a law establishing the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority. The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority will replace the Emirates Heritage Club and the Cultural Programs and Heritage Festivals Committee – Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority’s key roles and responsibilities include developing strategies to preserve Emirati heritage and traditions; promoting traditional and national identity values within society; documenting heritage practices; and conducting studies and research on literature and traditions, in line with Abu Dhabi’s strategy for cultural heritage. Furthermore, the authority will support, foster and document Nabati and classical Arabic poetry initiatives, and review historical studies and publications focusing on the oral history of the emirate, as well as its spoken dialects, in addition to poems and written, visual and audio mate­rials on the UAE and its leadership. The authority aims to raise awareness regarding the UAE’s traditions and heritage, and highlight national identity and traditional values to enhance community cohesion. The authority will also manage and organise festivals, exhibitions and heritage programmes inside and outside the emirate through coordination with relevant stakeholders.

Sharjah government launched a brand new identity for the emirate developed according to the identification of the strengths and distinctive features of Sharjah, as well as its attractiveness for tourism, living, working, studying, and investing. It represents an open invitation to the world to explore the richness and diversity that Sharjah possesses, along with its tremendous opportunities and potential. It also provides a wide range of promising prospects across various cultural, educational, economic, social, and entertainment sectors. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, attended on Sunday at Al Noor Island , the launch of the new Sharjah identity, which reflects all its visual and cultural components, expresses its distinguished cultural and artistic heritage. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed was received upon his arrival at the ceremony for the launch of the new Sharjah identity by: Sheikh Khalid Bin Isam Bin Saqer Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Department; Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations (DGR) ; Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Head of the Districts and Villages Affairs Department; Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Department; Sheikh Sultan bin Abdullah bin Salem Al Qasimi, the Director of the Statistics and Community Development Department; Sheikh Salem bin Mohammed bin Salem Al Qasimi, Director of Tourism and Commerce Development Authority; His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council and a number of senior officials, Heads and directors of government departments and a group of media professionals. On that occasion, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi said: “The new identity represents a …

As Valentine’s Day approaches, seize the opportunity to whisk your loved one away to enchanting destinations that paint the perfect backdrop for some quality time. The Philippines, with its diverse landscapes and intimate settings, offers an array of charming and delightful escapes. Here’s a curated selection of dreamy destinations that promise unforgettable moments. Pink Sand Beaches Add a blush of unique allure of pink sand beaches made possible by the countless particles of crushed red organ-pipe coral, visible in every handful of sand. Explore the pink sands of Santa Cruz Island and Great Santa Cruz Island in Zamboanga City, where the shores blush beneath the sun’s warm embrace. For a more secluded escape, discover the blush-toned sands of Subic Beach in Matnog, Sorsogon, or the hidden gem of Silaqui Island in Northern Samar. Tagaytay Nestled amidst rolling hills and about 90 minutes away from the country’s major entry point– Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Tagaytay stands as a haven for couples seeking tranquility. Share a quiet moment overlooking Taal Volcano, take a romantic boat ride on Taal Lake, and indulge in the cozy charm of Tagaytay’s bed-and-breakfasts. The cool climate and scenic vistas create an idyllic setting for love to flourish. Bohol Bohol, with its lush landscapes and natural wonders, offers a romantic escape for nature-loving visitors. Hop on a cruise along the Loboc River, explore the iconic Chocolate Hills with its verdant slopes that transform into a dreamy hue during this time, and visit the tarsier sanctuary. Additionally, February provides excellent conditions for underwater adventures. Take a dip and dive into the vibrant underwater world with your loved one by snorkeling or diving in Balicasag Island, a marine sanctuary teeming with …

Almosafer announced a strategic partnership with ZAAER, a pioneering cloud-based property management solution and accommodation switch, to offer an enhanced portfolio of serviced apartments across Almosafer’s portfolio of travel businesses serving domestic and inbound guests. ZAAER offers a range of innovative technology solutions to enable owners and accommodation managers to manage their day-to-day operations, including inventory, housekeeping, finance, HR, reservations, check-in and check-out, room allocation, and more through an easy-to-use system, all dynamically linked to manage any size of accommodation. Under the partnership, Almosafer will integrate ZAAER’s serviced apartment offerings within its extensive portfolio of travel businesses through an API solution to enhance the travel experience for both B2B and B2C customers across domestic and international markets. This move will significantly expand Almosafer’s comprehensive offerings with a wider range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. ZAAER, which currently manages 700 serviced apartments, aims to ambitiously scale up its short-term rental stock to 2,000 high quality accommodation spaces in 2024. Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO, Almosafer, said: “As Saudi Arabia grows in appeal for the global traveller, the partnership with ZAAER builds on our digital capabilities to help address the upscale accommodation needs of a growing number of domestic and international tourists. Integrating the accommodation content of ZAAER on our state-of-the-art digital-first B2B and B2C platforms will facilitate real-time data exchange, ensuring a smoother and more interconnected experience for property owners, guests, and the travel ecosystem.” : Dr. Mohammad Almubarak, CEO, ZAAER, said: “We are excited to partner with Almosafer to expand our reach to a broader audience across its integrated and high-performing digital platforms. The partnership marks a significant step in the evolution of the travel industry in Saudi Arabia as we …

World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Microsoft’s new report highlight the transformative power of AI (Artificial Intelligence) for Travel & Tourism, marking a commitment to a digital future with unparalleled customer experiences. The first in a series of AI reports, announced during the global tourism body’s event at FITUR and in collaboration with WTTC’s Industry Partner, Microsoft, is poised to redefine Travel & Tourism standards and call on the sector for greater integration of such technologies. As the global leader in Travel & Tourism, WTTC is committed to driving innovation and supporting the sector to embrace AI and other cutting-edge technologies. To promote sustainability and excellent customer experiences, WTTC acknowledges the crucial importance of AI in revolutionising the sector. Throughout the traveller’s journey, WTTC believes AI can play a pivotal role in delivering a tailored and enhanced experience now and in the future. This technology can empower personalised recommendations and marketing strategies by analysing traveller data, optimising pricing strategies through real-time adjustments, and offering instant responses and fine-tuned interactions via sophisticated AI powered chatbots. The report also highlights AI’s capabilities extend to predicting future demand patterns, efficiently allocating resources, and providing valuable insights for governments and Travel & Tourism stakeholders. This contribution can be pivotal in promoting sustainability with efficient resource management by monitoring and minimising environmental impacts, ensuring a more responsible and sustainable sector. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Travel & Tourism, AI emerges as a catalyst for positive change. The transformative capabilities highlighted in this report demonstrate that AI is not just a technological advancement, it is a strategic tool that can personalise the customer experience, drive sustainable improvements, and create …

202 students from 24 UAE schools made a splash at Emirates Aviation University’s seventh Water Rocket Competition, held in collaboration with Boeing. Students in grades 11 and 12 from schools across the UAE built rockets using materials at hand. Each year, the challenge for participants is to launch water rockets at a 45-degree angle, powered solely by water and air pressure. Students design creative nose cones and fins for enhanced impact protection. During the competition they also learn how to reduce, reuse, and recycle. This year, teams had two hours to complete the task and were given two attempts to launch their rockets. Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University, said: “Emirates Aviation University is committed to innovating and fostering creativity in young minds. Our annual Water Rocket Competition is not just exciting for the student community, it’s also an opportunity to bring in the best and brightest young minds of the country together, challenge them, and encourage them to think about STEM careers. Watching students brainstorm, collaborate, and construct these rockets is an eye-opening experience every year. We hope they are inspired to become leaders in science and engineering. We thank Boeing for their support and for making this challenge a success once again.” Kuljit Ghata-Aura, Boeing President in the Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia, added: “From launching the Arab world’s first uncrewed mission to Mars to signing the Artemis Accords, the UAE is rapidly emerging as a leader in space exploration. At Boeing, we have been part of every major U.S. endeavor to escape Earth’s gravity. We are excited to continue to partner with Emirates Aviation University to inspire a new generation of …

Shangri-La Dubai, rooted in its Asian heritage, is set to mark the auspicious Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, with a series of vibrant and culturally rich celebrations. Embracing the significance of family reunions and the spirit of new beginnings, Shangri-La Dubai will bring to life traditional festivities at its MICHELIN 2023 recommended restaurant, Shang Palace. In anticipation of the official Lunar New Year festivities, Shangri-La Dubai introduced their all-new Dragon Brunch, that pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam and China. This extraordinary brunch experience unfolds across two distinguished dining venues: Hoi An and Shang Palace, every Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm. The Lunar New Year festivities at Shang Palace kick off on 01st February with the grand debut of the Soaring Dragon Menu. Priced at AED 188 per person, this exclusive menu features a Dragon Dim Sum Platter, soup, main course, and dessert – a perfect culinary tribute to the occasion. On the dawn of the new year, more commonly referred to as “reunion day” falling on 09th February, guests will be invited to experience three meticulously crafted menus at Shang Palace. Executive Chinese Chef Peter Lau has curated the Celebratory Set Menu and Golden Dragon Menu, available until 16th February, showcasing exquisite dishes such as the Chinese Rainbow Fish Salad, Lunar New Year-themed Dim Sum Platter, main courses like Tiger Prawn, Wok-fried Beef Tenderloin, and more, including a selection of heavenly homemade desserts. To conclude the Lunar New Year festivities, a one-day-only Lantern Festival Menu will be offered on 24th February. With prices ranging from AED 288 to AED 388 per person, these menus cater to both individuals and groups, …