The Middle East’s aviation and cruise industries are entering a phase of global expansion, solidifying the region’s status as a major international travel hub. These industries are set to be the focus of attention at the upcoming Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre on 4-7 May.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:33:55 +0000

Founded to improve the corporate travel experience, SkyLink has built a proprietary AI architecture and multilayer orchestration engine designed to integrate simply and seamlessly into chat platforms
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:23:04 +0000

The landmark Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris has been recognised with the title of ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Supply Chain Programme 2025’ by voters at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards. Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris has completely reimagined its supply chain model, integrating responsible sourcing, waste reduction and ethical partnerships into every aspect of its operations. Through this award, the hotel demonstrates that true luxury can go hand in hand with excellence, social responsibility, and a deep commitment to the planet.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:59:58 +0000

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has introduced a first-of-its-kind split-payment solution for travellers in Kenya, through a longstanding strategic partnership with Cellulant, Africa’s leading payments technology company. The split-payment capability, enabled by Tingg, Cellulant’s payment gateway, has debuted in Kenya and is expected to roll out to other African markets in the coming months.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:57:54 +0000

Four Seasons Yachts unveils its 2027–2028 Caribbean season, introducing 18 curated voyages and 18 new destinations that will invite guests to explore this part of the world by sea. Designed around intimate marinas and lightly visited ports, each itinerary allows travellers to step directly into the character of the Caribbean. The season will mark Four Seasons Yachts second year sailing in this region, following the brand’s Mediterranean debut in March 2026 and its inaugural Caribbean winter season later this year.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:58:06 +0000

For over two decades, Emirates has played a key role in supporting Mauritius’ tourism ambitions, driving visitor arrivals and opening doors to new source markets globally. Since 2022, over one million of Mauritius’ tourist arrivals recorded were carried by Emirates, representing more than 20% of the total number of tourists landing in Mauritius during the 2022 - 2025 period. Visitor growth has fuelled positive impact across the tourism value chain, from hotels and restaurants to tour operators, supporting thousands of jobs and delivering meaningful benefits to the local economy.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:55:58 +0000

The tall-ship cruise line has announced 27 new ports of call across 7 countries for the summer 2027 Mediterranean sailing programme - the highest number of new additions in the line’s history. The new ports of call include Astypalea, Pighadia, Gavrio, Chania, Skyros and Parga in Greece; Çeşme, Datça, Kaş, Kekova and Fethiye in Turkey; Roses, Barcelona and Peniscola in Spain; Menton in France; Trogir and Korčula in Croatia; and, in a brand-new country for the sailing cruises specialist, Albania’s Sarandë
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:52:54 +0000

Pulse Hotels & Resorts has announced the launch of Aura Maldives, a new 5-star luxury island sanctuary set to open in Q4 2026 within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, easily accessible via a scenic 30-minute seaplane journey from Male’, or a 15-minute domestic flight to Dharavandhoo Airport followed by a 15-minute yacht or speedboat transfer.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:50:53 +0000

The Flower Parade, a highlight of the Flower Festival - an event promoted by the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Environment and Culture of Madeira - will, from this year onwards, be held on two Sundays, on 3 and 17 May. This decision, aligned with the objective of enhancing the visitor experience set out in the UPGRADE Programme, aims to enhance the prestige of the parade and its participants, while also providing better viewing conditions for the public.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:49:48 +0000

S4BT – Solutions for Business Travel, the European group comprising CDS, Goelett, CRC, TMS, SIAP, Methodica and Trevium expands its footprint to become the largest global corporate hotel booking powerhouse with the acquisition of Travel Centric Technology, the London-headquartered parent company of HotelHub, a hotel technology platform serving global travel management companies (TMCs). The transaction marks a new phase of scale and ambition for the Group, expanding its geographical reach, deepening engagement across major travel markets, and enhancing its technological capacity.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:46:04 +0000

Next month Brad Brewer, Co-Founder and Chief AI Officer of Agentic Hospitality, will speak to its general managers, directors of sales, and corporate executives at the Meyer Jabara Hotels (MJH) Executive Conference in Providence, R.I., to discuss one of the most talked-about and fastest-emerging topics in hospitality: Agentic Hotel Distribution.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:43:27 +0000

The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, situated on the pristine south-west coast of Malaysia’s Jewel of Kedah, announces the launch of its newest guest experience, a private Lagoon 620 sailing catamaran with luxury itineraries. Named to symbolize enduring grace, Dayang Mastura will provide guests with an exceptional private charter experience and an invitation to explore Langkawi’s breathtaking Andaman coastline - the ultimate Langkawi sailing experience.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:41:32 +0000

Effective 30 January 2026, The Sirēya Desaru Coast became Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast, under the management of Mandarin Oriental. To mark the resort’s new chapter, a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony took place on 5 February 2026 with a floral garland consisting of local flora. The ceremony was attended by members of Mandarin Oriental’s senior leadership team including Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive; ShaoWei Ong, Chief People and Culture Officer; Matthew Bishop, Chief Financial Officer; Kande Camara, Chief of Staff and Group Director of Sustainability, Mandarin Oriental; Anthony Tyler, General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, and Area Vice President Operations; Christian Gerart, General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast; Dato’ Mohamed Nasri Sallehudin, Chairman of Destination Resorts and Hotels; and Mr. Darhim Dali Hashim, Group Chief Executive Officer of Destination Resorts and Hotels, owners of the resort. As the reimagined floral ribbon was cut, bubbles drifted to the sky, symbolising transformation and renewal.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:36:59 +0000

Minor Hotels, an international hotel owner, operator and investor with more than 640 properties in 59 countries, has announced the signing of NH Collection Accra, the first property under the NH Collection brand in Ghana - set to launch in 2030. The agreement was signed during THINC Middle East 2026, underscoring the group’s continued expansion across gateway cities in Africa.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:36:39 +0000

As part of Finnair’s new strategy, published in November, Finnair has also renewed its brand strategy. And at the core of the renewed brand is the airline’s Finnishness, which is also increasingly visible in customer experience, including the Finnair soundscape. Fourth-generation Finnish musician and composer Lauri Porra – the great grandson of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius – has composed a new music ensemble called Matkantekijä (Traveller), which depicts the Finnish mindscape and the atmosphere of travel. From the end of February, this music will be heard on Finnair’s planes, lounges, as well as in marketing and customer service touchpoints.
at Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:33:37 +0000

SriLankan Airlines has long made it a mission to bring India closer to Sri Lanka and the world. With close to 90 weekly flights between the two countries, and more to come, the airline has never been more energised about setting the pace for India’s expanding global footprint. SriLankan proudly counts India as its largest market, accounting for nearly 30% of the airline’s total passenger traffic and 23% of overall visitor arrivals to the island. Building on this momentum, the airline is poised to enhance its India operations this year through targeted strategic initiatives that will strengthen connectivity and reinforce the time-honoured bond between the two nations.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:32:56 +0000

Given the recent news that China will now allow British citizens to travel to the country for up to 30 days without a visa, in order to boost UK tourism to the country, private travel specialist Captain’s Choice’s has planned an Ancient & Remote Wonders of China by Private Jet trip, taking place in September 2026:
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:29:11 +0000

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, brings to life traditional Emirati Ramadan experiences through thoughtful moments across different touch points for guests around the world, celebrating the start of the holy month and inviting guests to share in the rich Emirati culture the airline proudly reflects.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:30:26 +0000

In Miami Beach, food is more than a meal — it is a living reflection of the city’s people, art, architecture, and cultural evolution. From historic Cuban diners and Mediterranean seaside tables to Michelin-starred, approachable innovation, Miami Beach invites visitors to experience the destination through its most iconic culinary creations.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:02:09 +0000

The Visitor Experience Team at Japan House London has won the Best Visitor Experience category at the Cultural Enterprises Awards 2026. Beating off competition from over 1,600 other cultural organizations across the UK, Japan House London was selected by judges at Cultural Enterprises, a trade body for the arts, heritage and cultural sector, for its authentic approach and the respect shown not only to visitors but also to the skills of team members at all levels.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:00:18 +0000

Vacations By Rail®, a premier small group and independent tour operator and the trusted authority on rail, announces an exciting expansion of its 2026 Europe portfolio spotlighting France and Spain. These immersive, rail‑forward journeys highlight world‑class wine regions, iconic cultural centers, and some of Europe’s most scenic routes, inviting travelers to discover old‑world romance, rich gastronomy, and landscapes that inspired the Impressionists, from mountain ranges and rolling vineyards to sun‑washed coastlines.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:58:32 +0000

Alinea, the iconic restaurant helmed by Chef Grant Achatz, continues to celebrate two decades of culinary excellence with a special anniversary collaboration at Bellagio Resort & Casino in Las Vegas April 16 – May 31. For a limited time, Chef Achatz and his team will be in residence at celebrity chef Michael Mina’s eponymous restaurant, offering guests an immersive gastronomic experience paired with the resort’s signature world-class hospitality.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:55:37 +0000

One of the most reputable destination management companies in India, Cholan Tours, has announced a pioneering industry initiative, the introduction of professionally trained women chauffeurs to operate multi-day and long-distance tours across India, a first-of-its-kind concept in the Indian tourism sector.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:53:12 +0000

Today, Disney announced Academy Award-winning actor Robert Downey Jr. will be the godparent for the Disney Adventure, the newest and largest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Disney shared the news ahead of the vessel’s maiden voyage next month out of its home port in Singapore.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:50:33 +0000

Today, Disney announced Academy Award-winning actor Robert Downey Jr. will be the godparent for the Disney Adventure, the newest and largest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Disney shared the news ahead of the vessel’s maiden voyage next month out of its home port in Singapore.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:50:26 +0000

A seasoned professional in the world of luxury hospitality, Guillaume Ranvier has joined Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo as General Manager. He officially took up his position on January 5, 2026, succeeding Louis Starck, who was appointed General Manager of Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo at the end of last September. With an impressive international career in prestigious hotel establishments, Guillaume Ranvier will now bring his expertise and ultra-luxury experience to one of Monaco’s most iconic hotels. Arriving directly from the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris, where he served as Hotel Manager,
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:46:04 +0000

Ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, Discover Aboriginal Experiences celebrates the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women who lead, teach and nurture culture across Australia – guiding visitors not only through landscapes, but through knowledge systems sustained for more than 65,000 years.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:43:06 +0000

Regent Seven Seas Cruises®, the world’s leading ultra-luxury cruise line, has unveiled a new collection of nearly 50 multi-day land programs available pre- and post- sailing in iconic destinations across the globe, including Africa & Arabia, Alaska, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, the Mediterranean & Northern Europe, and North America. Featured on sailings departing in 2026 and beyond, the new collection of immersive pre‑ and post‑land programs spans six of the seven ultra‑luxury ships in The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet®. These curated shoreside experiences cater to the growing desire of combining cruise and land holidays, giving guests the freedom to explore home ports at an unhurried pace and spend more meaningful time immersed in each destination before or after their voyage.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:41:12 +0000

As cherry blossoms begin to bloom across the city, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo offers a rare Sakura experience set quite literally at its doorstep. Located just steps from one of Nihonbashi’s most celebrated Sakura-lined avenues, the hotel is surrounded by softly arching cherry trees that transform the neighborhood into a living spring tableau, allowing guests to experience Tokyo’s most poetic season within easy reach of the hotel.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:38:06 +0000

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa. Set along the tranquil Nun River, framed by the foothills of the Himalayas, the resort marks the brand’s arrival in Dehradun, an emerging leisure hub and key gateway to some of North India’s most sought-after hill destinations, including Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.
at Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:35:53 +0000

The World Surf League (WSL) North America Qualifying Series (QS) and Pro Junior contingent prepare for the BTMI Barbados Surf Pro and Live Like Zander Junior Pro In Loving Memory of Zander Venezia Presented by Diamonds International, a men’s and women’s QS 6,000 and Pro Junior, beginning February 23 through March 1. This marks the culmination of 2026 Challenger Series qualification and a crucial second stop for World Junior Championship qualification at the iconic reef break of Soup Bowl, located on Barbados’ East Coast.
at Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:38:18 +0000

Cartier, in collaboration with China Duty Free Group, invites travelers to a Chinese New Year pop-up at CDF Sanya International Duty-Free Shopping Complex, Block A, Atrium from February 12th to 25th. Blending Hainan’s tropical essence with the Maison’s signature codes and rich Chinese traditions, the space welcomes visitors into a poetic world of lush greenery and celebratory reds that captures the season’s spirit of renewal and elegance, with the Maison’s iconic panther at its heart.
at Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:30:24 +0000

Mandarin Oriental is proud to announce that Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all time and one of the defining athletes of her generation, has joined the brand as its first-ever Global Wellness Ambassador. The long-term, purpose-driven collaboration represents a strategic step in positioning Mandarin Oriental as a global authority in modern, holistic wellbeing. It reflects the Group’s belief that true wellness is the integration of physical strength, mental health, recovery and balance, a philosophy that Biles embodies with authenticity and grace.
at Mon, 23 Feb 2026 17:23:04 +0000

Inaugurated on June 7, 1976, La Pirogue celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. 50 years of history. 50 years of breathtaking sunsets. 50 years of memories shared across generations of travellers. A true icon of the west coast and of Mauritius itself, La Pirogue pays vibrant tribute to its heritage, its teams, its loyal guests, and the living culture that has shaped its soul for half a century.
at Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:14:03 +0000

If you’re flying from drizzle-soaked London to the glittering skyline of the UAE, chances are you’ve already planned the essentials — flights, hotel, maybe a brunch booking at a swanky rooftop spot. But here’s the bit most Brits overlook: rent a car Dubai. It might not sound glamorous at first, but trust me, it’s the travel upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
at Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:43:07 +0000

Yas Island has officially taken center stage on one of India’s most-watched television franchises, as Season 16 of Indian Idol aired its special Abu Dhabi episodes, filmed at Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the region’s largest indoor theme park. The episodes created a major on-screen moment connecting two vibrant entertainment cultures.
at Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:43:30 +0000

Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa, has secured the Four Points by Sheraton brand for the Diyar Al Khalidiya hotel in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
at Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:38:36 +0000

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, today announced the appointment of Captain Khalid Humaid Al Ali as Senior Vice President Aeropolitical, International and Government Affairs.
at Mon, 23 Feb 2026 08:33:14 +0000

Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa, has secured the Four Points by Sheraton brand for the Diyar Al Khalidiya hotel in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
at Mon, 23 Feb 2026 07:39:31 +0000

For nearly a century, The Peninsula Hong Kong has served as a spectacular setting for romantic celebrations. From intimate marriage proposals and candlelit dinners to lavish anniversary banquets and wedding receptions, the iconic hotel overlooking Victoria Harbour has played gracious host – offering couples both peerlessly elegant environs and superbly attentive services to commemorate their love.
at Mon, 23 Feb 2026 07:36:59 +0000