As the United Nations Tourism Organization celebrates its 50th anniversary, all eyes turn to Riyadh, the host city of the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly (UNTGA 2025). Taking place from 7–11 November 2025 at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel, this landmark event will unite ministers, policymakers, and industry leaders from more than 160 member states—making it the largest gathering in the organization’s history.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 13:32:38 +0000

Announcing financial results for the third quarter of 2025, Turkish Airlines continued its uninterrupted growth during a period marked by extraordinary developments around the world. Despite the uncertainties brought by trade disruptions and the engine-related challenges in the aviation industry, the airline carried 27.2 million passengers during the quarter – marking the highest third-quarter figure in its history. Sustaining growth for 18 consecutive quarters, Turkish Airlines increased its passenger capacity by 8.2%, compared to the same period last year, pushing it 43% above pre-pandemic levels.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 13:20:53 +0000

Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has announced the next milestone for its newest lifestyle resort – dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives – with the forthcoming launch of Feydhoo Hall, introducing a fresh, accessible, and elegant venue that brings new energy to the Maldives’ meetings and events scene. Located just seven minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Malé, dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives has already made a bold impression with its creative energy, social spirit, and premium all-inclusive concept that blends freedom, fun, and sophistication in a stunning island setting. With Feydhoo Hall set to open in Q1 2026, the resort is poised to extend its appeal beyond leisure, emerging as a vibrant new hub for corporate retreats, destination weddings, and bespoke celebrations.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 09:38:00 +0000

As the weather cools and the energy rises, November marks the most exciting time to visit Saudi. The season’s lineup brings global tournaments, art spectacles, and coastal thrills - all under golden skies and perfect 25 °C days. From Riyadh’s world-class entertainment to AlUla’s ancient allure and Jeddah’s pulse by the sea, November captures the very best of the Saudi Calendar. In the first half of 2025 alone, Saudi welcomed 14.3 million international visitors, generating nearly SAR 90.5 billion in inbound tourism spending, one of the fastest surges worldwide. Saudi now ranks 15th globally in international arrivals and 12th in tourism receipts, climbing more than ten places since 2019. That momentum sets the stage for an unforgettable November, when the world’s spotlight turns to Saudi.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 09:30:01 +0000

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and its partners concluded a high-impact showcase at World Travel Market (WTM) 2025, captivating the global travel trade with Saudi’s Unreal Calendar of world-class events and entertainment and its iconic destinations – from the ancient wonders of AlUla and the pristine Saudi Red Sea, to the cultural energy of Jeddah and the dynamic spirit of Riyadh. Saudi’s presence at WTM demonstrated its commitment to building meaningful global partnerships, unlocking new investment opportunities, and delivering world-class tourism experiences, driving the next chapter of tourism growth. Over three days, 71 Saudi partners connected with the international travel and tourism trade at the immersive “Saudi Land” pavilion, presenting a broad selection of bookable products, new travel packages, and flagship experiences such as luxury openings at Shura Island and the launch of Six Flags Qiddiya City.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 09:26:26 +0000

Boeing and Somon Air today announced Tajikistan’s national air carrier has committed to place its largest-ever order, selecting up to 14 fuel-efficient 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX airplanes. Somon Air currently operates six Next-Generation 737 airplanes from Tajikistan to 25 destinations across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. With today’s agreement, the airline will place its first-ever widebody order for up to four 787-9 jets to enable international network expansion and up to 10 737-8 single-aisle jets, to modernize its all-737 fleet
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:53:02 +0000

Boeing and Uzbekistan Airways announced today the conversion of options into a firm order for eight 787 Dreamliners, bringing the flag carrier’s total order book to 22 of the versatile widebody jets.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:50:07 +0000

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism organized a series of tourism promotion activities at the World Travel Market WTM London 2025, which took place at the ExCeL London Exhibition and Convention Center, United Kingdom, from November 4th to 6th, 2025.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:47:51 +0000

The Emirates Group today announced a new record half-year financial performance, posting a profit before tax of AED 12.2 billion (US$ 3.3 billion) for the first six months of 2025-26, making this the fourth consecutive year of record profitability for the half-year reporting period. After accounting for income tax charges, the Group’s profit after tax is AED 10.6 billion (US$ 2.9 billion), up 13% from last year. Illustrating its strong operating performance, the Group maintained a robust EBITDA of AED 21.1 billion (US$ 5.7 billion), 3% higher than the AED 20.4 billion (US$ 5.6 billion) reported for the same period last year.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:46:21 +0000

A groundbreaking new report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals that smarter border management could supercharge the global economy, adding $401BN in GDP and creating 14MN new jobs across G20, EU, and African Union nations by 2035. Created by WTTC in partnership with SITA, the Better Borders report shows that by embracing digital technologies and adopting smarter visa policies, governments can transform their borders into powerful national assets, boosting tourism, enhancing security, and strengthening economic competitiveness.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:42:07 +0000

Launching in late 2025, the GCC Grand Tours Visa marks a new chapter for tourism in the Gulf by allowing travellers to visit all six GCC nations: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with a single, unified visa. The visa opens the door to seamless cross-border travel and invites visitors to experience the full spectrum of the region’s culture, landscapes and hospitality without the hassle of multiple entry requirements.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:40:38 +0000

World Travel Market London 2025 closed with a high-profile fireside chat, this year featuring an Oscar-nominated British actor sharing his love of travel with a senior member of the UK government in front of a standing-room-only crowd. Richard E Grant, nominated for an Oscar for Can You Ever Forgive Me? in 2019, talked travel with Sir Chris Bryant MP, recently appointed the UK’s minister of state for trade policy.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:36:56 +0000

Global leaders from tourism, travel-tech, and destination management met at a private, invitation-only roundtable hosted by Mabrian, The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group, and the Global Tourism Resilience Council to explore how data and innovation can transform the future of event management. The closed-door session, titled “Strategic Event Intelligence – Data, Impact and the Future of Events Tourism,” was held at the Crowne Plaza Docklands during World Travel Market (WTM) London and brought together a select group of senior executives from JCDecaux, ICF, This is Breeze and Queer Destinations,  alongside tourism and destination leaders from Europe
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:33:43 +0000

Students and those seeking a role in travel should persevere with applications and make as many connections as possible, according to speakers at WTM London’s careers summit this morning. The Institute of Travel & Tourism’s Future You event also heard about the importance of young people entering the industry and the wide range of opportunities to boost skills.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:31:52 +0000

TAP Air Portugal has established a partnership with the Portuguese Olympic Committee (COP) and the Portuguese Paralympic Committee (CPP) through an agreement that makes the national airline the Official Airline of Team Portugal and Olympic Partner until the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. This agreement covers the entire Olympic cycle, including transport for the Portuguese delegation to the 2028 Games, as well as to qualifying events, training camps and international preparation missions.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:29:27 +0000

Finland’s national carrier, Finnair, brings UK travellers the opportunity to experience Finland’s popular Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) season, due to the darker winter nights. 2025 is predicted to bring the most impressive Northern Lights in around a decade with increased solar flares creating a more intense and recurrent experience. This year, the sun’s solar maximum - an 11 year cycle - will be at its peak, making this winter the perfect time to enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience.
at Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:27:13 +0000

Visit Qatar is unveiling the country’s significant tourism growth and expanding visitor offerings at World Travel Market (WTM) 2025, from 4-6 November 2025 at ExCeL London. Joined by a strong delegation of 48 partners - including hotels, resorts and destination management companies - Visit Qatar shared its latest milestones in the country’s tourism sector during a press conference on 5 November, highlighting growth in visitor numbers, hospitality expansion, cruise milestones and Qatar’s evolving position as a world-class travel destination.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:34:33 +0000

Artificial intelligence is a net positive for travel, according to a show-of-hands after a lively debate which rounded off the Technology Summit at this year’s WTM London. The role of AI in travel was debated by two teams of three. Those agreeing with the proposition – AI is the enemy of travel – were led by Stephen Joyce from Protect Group, with the dissenters led by Christian Watts of Magpie Travel.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:31:07 +0000

Jumeirah, the global luxury hospitality brand and a member of Dubai Holding, today unveils Jumeirah Heritage Club – an exclusive capsule collection created in collaboration with acclaimed Dubai-based contemporary fashion house Bouguessa.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:24:58 +0000

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, participated at the World Travel Market 2025 (WTM), hosted in London, United Kingdom, from November 4 to 6. The event is one of the world’s leading travel and tourism events, bringing together industry leaders, decision-makers, and experts from around the globe.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:21:36 +0000

Vietnam Airlines has become the first airline in Vietnam to introduce its own signature fragrance, LotuScent, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to enhancing the passenger experience. The fragrance is crafted to enhance the ambiance of select Lotus Lounges and on international flights.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:15:06 +0000

In a pivotal discussion, H.H. Princess Sara bint Salman Al‑Saudi Al‑Saud and Mr. AlHamdan outlined how Saudi Arabia is stepping into the global tourism spotlight by hosting the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh (7-11 November 2025) — coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the UN tourism body. They emphasised Saudi’s intent to leverage this milestone to showcase its transformation under Vision 2030, and to set a new course for the industry under the theme “AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future.” The roundtable highlighted three core areas of focus: deepening international collaboration across 160+ member states; embedding artificial intelligence and sustainable innovation into the travel ecosystem; and using the event as a platform to accelerate Saudi’s role as a global tourism hub and model of responsible growth.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:01:00 +0000

The Maldives is moving to expand its tourism model with proposed amendments to the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act. The changes create a new category of Sustainable Townships, designed for large-scale, integrated developments that combine hospitality, residential real estate, health, education, and renewable energy infrastructure.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 11:55:35 +0000

The 16th edition of the Italian Cuisine World Summit, the longest-running event celebrating Italian gastronomy, restaurants, and authentic Italian-made food and beverages, returned to Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi on November 3. The event paid tribute to Italy’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant dining scene, featuring chefs representing Michelin-star-awarded restaurants from across Italy.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 11:29:59 +0000

The Croatian National Tourist Board made a flying start to the World Travel Market (WTM) taking place from 4-6 November, the largest in event’s 45-year history. Promotional efforts at the checkered and visually impactful Croatian stand were spearheaded by the Minister of Tourism and Sport, Tonči Glavina, the Croatian National Tourist Board’s Director, Kristjan Staničić, Director of the Croatian National Tourist Board’s office in London, Bisera Fabrio, alongside 27 co-exhibitors.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:10:22 +0000

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched a new “Amazing Thailand” campaign, redefining luxury through the lens of personal healing, sustainability, and cultural connections for a new generation of travellers. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is setting out a bold new vision for the country’s tourism industry with the campaign “Unforgettable Experience: Healing is the New Luxury”. In a world where speed, stress and uncertainty dominate daily life, Thailand is positioning itself as a destination where travellers can slow down, recharge, and reconnect with themselves and nature.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:09:50 +0000

Tourism is entering a new era of transformation defined by sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili shares how global collaboration is reshaping travel, empowering communities, and driving long-term, responsible growth worldwide.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:07:00 +0000

Hilton today announced during World Travel Market in London the signing of an agreement with Wirgan Hospitality to rebrand two of their trading hotels in Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – the first Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Makkah and a DoubleTree by Hilton. Both hotels are set to open before the end of the year, further strengthening Hilton’s presence in the Kingdom and the Holy City. The signings will almost double Hilton’s trading presence in Makkah – by rooms – to more than 4,100 keys.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:04:03 +0000

Jamie Wortley, Vice President of Communications at the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), discusses sustainable growth, workforce renewal, and innovation in the sector.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:01:40 +0000

This festive season, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives invites guests to step into an elevated journey of celebration, nostalgia, and rejuvenation with its 2025–2026 Festive Program, themed “Through the Decades.” Between December 23, 2025, and January 7, 2026, the island will transform into a vibrant canvas of shimmering gold, sparkling silver, and neon hues. The resort’s signature ethos — “time and space redefined” — sets the tone, as guests are invited to leave the ordinary behind and relax, celebrate, and reconnect in absolute luxury.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 07:56:26 +0000

The second day of World Travel Market London 2025 welcomed the main sessions of this year’s DEAI Summit. It also saw more discussions on AI, sustainability and marketing and touched on how humour can be used to sell travel. An early session in the DEAI Summit highlighted ‘inclusion fatigue’ and political resistance to diversity initiatives. “There is definitely a rollback that is making it more challenging,” said Joanna Reeve, of tour operator Intrepid Travel. But she suggested travel could make us feel connected to other cultures so “there’s less of ‘us and them’ and more ‘us’.”
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 07:54:51 +0000

Yesterday, British TV stars Bettany Hughes and Maisie Adam took to the stage at WTM London to share their tips about marketing travel and holidays. Comedian and star of Taskmaster and A League of Their Own, Maisie Adam, spoke on the marketing summit panel ‘Comedy Sells’ whereby she told delegates: “It’s about making the ordinary, extraordinary”, as she recalled interviews with passengers about etiquette on planes. Having worked with several tourism boards, Adam went on to explain “There is a human element to travel…we have to grab [consumers] with more than just where it is. You don’t have to show off Machu Picchu; you could be at an airport talking about the mundane”. The comedian showed clips from her recent Swiss tourism film, which featured activities such as sliding down a bobsleigh run and trying a fondue. Adam said: “It’s about telling a story well and enjoying yourself. Other people see you’re having a great laugh, so they want to come and find out more”. She closed by telling the audience: “Humour is a special language…and a great tool for connection.”
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 07:52:10 +0000

Ministers gathered at WTM London 2025 shared their views on how smarter, more inclusive investment models can help destinations to share more widely the benefits of travel and tourism. The 19th edition of WTM London’s Ministers’ Summit, in association with UN Tourism and WTTC, offered examples of how the public and private sectors are working together to fund the opportunities and mediate the challenges of growing travel and tourism markets. Many destinations are using tax breaks and other incentives to drive tourism development. Christina Frasco from the Philippines talked about how it was offering fiscal incentives and opening new economic zones for tourism that champion sustainability, green innovation and job creation.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 07:49:15 +0000

The Maldives is moving to expand its tourism model with proposed amendments to the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act. The changes create a new category of Sustainable Townships, designed for large-scale, integrated developments that combine hospitality, residential real estate, health, education, and renewable energy infrastructure. The government’s aim is to diversify the tourism sector and attract next-generation projects that complement the traditional resort model. Sustainable Townships are expected to generate long-term opportunities in premium real estate tourism, wellness and medical services, and education-focused travel. By integrating residential, commercial, and public service components, these projects broaden revenue streams, create employment across multiple sectors, and establish the Maldives as a destination for long-stay visitors and high-value investors.
at Thu, 06 Nov 2025 07:47:17 +0000

Released in the same week that International Airlines Group announces its latest results and the global travel community convened for World Travel Market London, a new report from Raven has set out a bold vision for the future of aviation.
at Wed, 05 Nov 2025 18:15:32 +0000

IDeaS, a SAS company and the world’s leading provider of hospitality revenue management software and services, has signed a master service agreement with Adeera Hospitality in Saudi Arabia. The agreement provides a framework for Adeera Hospitality to implement IDeaS solutions across the entirety of their upcoming luxury properties in Saudi Arabia. Wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Adeera Hospitality is a hotel management company responsible for developing distinctive new Saudi hospitality brands. Adeera’s ambitious plans include launching a portfolio of 60+ all-new hotels among multiple brands over the coming five years.
at Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:48:03 +0000

Marriott International, Inc. today announced that it has signed an agreement with Invest İnşaat to debut Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy® in Türkiye.  Situated at Vadistanbul area, one of Istanbul’s most prominent business and lifestyle destinations, the project further expands Marriott’s growing portfolio of extended stay and premium apartment-style accommodations across the region.  Construction of Invista, Istanbul, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy has commenced, with an anticipated opening in 2026. Access Hospitality will collaborate with Marriott International and Invest İnşaat as the third-party operator for the franchised property.
at Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:46:13 +0000

RMS, a leading hospitality platform for hotels, motels, serviced apartments and campgrounds, has today announced a new integration with cloud-based point-of-sale provider Epos Now to enhance operational efficiency by connecting front-of-house transactions with RMS’s robust property management system. By syncing guest billing and POS transactions in real time, the integration reduces manual data entry and reconciliation errors while giving operators a unified view of guest spend across accommodation, food and beverage and other outlets.
at Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:44:17 +0000

Marking its 25th anniversary, Virgin Limited Edition, Sir Richard Branson’s acclaimed collection of luxury retreats, has unveiled an extraordinary 25-night “suite escape” spanning five of its most iconic properties across Europe and Africa. The bespoke experience includes five-night stays at Son Bunyola Hotel in Mallorca, Kasbah Tamadot in Morocco, Mahali Mzuri and Finch Hattons in Kenya, and Mont Rochelle in South Africa — each chosen for its spectacular setting and award-winning hospitality
at Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:30:56 +0000

Saudi made a strong impression on the opening day of World Travel Market (WTM) 2025, as the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and its 71 partners unveiled the spectacular “Saudi Land” pavilion, presenting the scale and ambition of its tourism sector. Following a record-breaking year welcoming almost 116 million visitors and generating $75 billion in tourism spend, STA arrived at WTM ready to deepen global partnerships and unlock new opportunities for collaboration and growth.
at Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:22:34 +0000