Breaking Travel News ITB Berlin 2023 Special Edition

Qatar Airways reveals new destinations and objectives AT ITB BERLIN

Qatar Airways drew major attention on the opening day of ITB Berlin 2023.

His Excellency Akbar Al Baker, Group Chief Executive, unveiled new destinations and announced flight resumptions and frequency increases during a press conference at the world’s largest travel show.

Highlighting the success of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, Qatar Airways revealed its new sports sponsorship portfolio, as well as a multitude of other projects and partnerships lined up for the year 2023, continuing on the path of bringing people together all while boosting the tourism industry in the State of Qatar

At the press conference, H.E. Mr. Al Baker announced over seven new destinations planned for launch in 2023, including Chittagong, Juba, Kinshasa, Lyon, Medan, Toulouse, and Trabzon. Qatar Airways is also resuming flights to 11 destinations: Beijing, Birmingham, Buenos Aires, Casablanca, Davao, Marrakesh, Nice, Osaka, Phnom Penh, Ras AlKhaimah, and Tokyo Haneda. Multiple destinations also saw frequency increases scheduled for the year 2023.

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The press conference was also attended by His Excellency, Sheikh Abdulla Bin Mohammed Bin Saud Al-Thani, Ambassador for the State of Qatar to Germany.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Qatar Airways is dedicated to enrich the global community which it serves. We are excited to offer more ways of bringing the world together, increasing connectivity and bridging gaps within the travel industry. As we expand our fleet, network, partnerships and international presence we look forward to working together to deliver sustainable growth and a compelling future for the industry.

“We continue to look forward to our bright future here in Qatar, with multiple projects lined up for 2023 and beyond, such as the Formula 1

partnership and much more. Qatar will continue to be a global hub of connectivity and an ideal destination for tourism, long after the great success of the historic FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.”

ITB Berlin showcases a range of travel exhibitors from over 180 countries and five continents, providing over 160,000 visitors with information on new products, services and facilities in the tourism industry.

Watch the BTN interview with HE Akbar Al Baker, Group Chief Executive, Qatar Airways here.

Further information

Qatar Airways welcomes all guests to ITB Berlin to visit its exhibition pavilion Hall 2.2, stand 208/208A

The Qatar Airways booth offers a thrilling Formula 1® sports car simulator experience. FC Bayern Munich legend Claudio Pizarro is also making a special appearance at the stand.

Representing Qatar Airways’ innovative technological adoptions, the booth is also equipped with Qatar Airways’ virtual reality experiences, ‘QVerse’, and a tour of the newly expanded Hamad International Airport terminal, The ORCHARD.

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Qatar Tourism announces schedule for Shop Qatar

Qatar Tourism (QT) has revealed the schedule of upcoming events as part of Shop Qatar, the largest shopping festival in the country. Khalifa Al Haroon, founder and CEO of community platform ‘I Love Qatar,’ is the face of this year’s shopping festival, as part of a new partnership with QT.

Arab Mega Stars will take centre stage at Shop Qatar this year, with a performance by Haifa and Elissa on 9 March at Mondrian Hotel, and one from Oumaima Taleb on 10 March at Katara Amphitheatre.

Sheikha Hessa Al-Thani, Head of Marketing and Planning at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are delighted to partner with I Love Qatar and its founder, Khalifa Al Haroon, to promote the variety of events and activities taking place as part of this year’s Shop Qatar. We have a packed schedule of festivities and promotions this year to ensure residents and visitors experience the ultimate shopping festival of its kind.”

Sephora is set to host a series of events as part of the Shop Qatar festival. The beauty retailer will be offering “Sephora Saturdays” at Place Vendôme, featuring masterclasses that are open to all from 7-10pm. Additionally, “Sephora Ladies Night” will be held every Wednesday at the same time, while a special “Sephora Men’s Night” is scheduled for4 March. Alongside this, Harvey Nichols at Doha Festival City is set to host a grand fashion show on 14 March, featuring local designers’ Ramadan collections of Caftan and Abayas.

Participating in the month-long celebration of Qatar's retail industry are ten of the most popular shopping

malls in the country, which include Doha Festival City, Place Vendôme, and Lagoona Mall.

For every 200 QAR spent, shoppers are eligible to enter a draw for mega prizes worth over 2 M QAR. On 4, 11, and 18 March, Qatar Tourism will be holding raffles at Lagoona Mall, Place Vendome, and Doha Festival City (DFC), respectively. Starting at 8pm, each event promises to be an exciting and fun-filled evening, with a chance for attendees to walk away with some incredible prizes. These include six cash prizes worth QR 10,000, three cash prizes worth QR 20,000, and a grand prize of either a BMW X5 or a studio apartment in The Pearl Qatar.

Shoppers can also look forward to spectacular roaming performances that will take place at participating malls throughout the month-long shopping festival. These acts include dazzling winter circus and heliosphere aerial performances, as well as a captivating trip to the enchanted fairy forest for young children.

Further information

For more information on upcoming events, visit www.qatarcalendar.com and follow @qatarcalendar on Facebook and Instagram

United Nations establishes Global Tourism Resilience Day

The United Nations has voted to create a Global Tourism Resilience Day, which will be marked on 17 February each year.

The day will be used to promote a sustainable and resilient travel industry, with a focus on the potential for the sector to drive economic growth, social development and financial inclusion, in addition to environmental benefits.

Jamaican tourism minister Edmund Bartlett, who made the case to the UN and is also co-chair of the Resilience Council and the GTRCMC, said: “The day will remind countries and businesses in travel and tourism to focus on how you respond to crises, how you

recover quickly, and how you will grow. That is what resilience is all about.”

The UN voted to adopt resolution 70.1 drafted by the Global Travel and Tourism Resilience Council in collaboration with the Global Tourism Resilience & Crisis Management Centre.

It was backed by countries including the Bahamas, Belize, Botswana, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Georgia, Greece, Guyana, Jamaica, Jordan, Kenya, Malta, Namibia, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Spain and Zambia.

More than 30 private sector associations including the USTA, IATA, the WTTC, Travalyst, the Business Travel Association, LATA, PATA, ETOA, ITB Berlin, Travel Foundation, Travel Declares a Climate Emergency, the GBTA,

USAID Developing Sustainable Travel in Bosnia Herzegovina and the Association of Touring & Adventure Suppliers also endorsed the proposal.

Resilience Council spokesperson Laurie Myers added: “Every year leading up to 17 February we will run events and campaigns to remind both the public and private sectors to focus on preparedness, sustainability, recovery and resilience with the outstanding examples being honoured establishing best practice and in the process saving lives.”

Minister Bartlett is holding a Talk and Toast event at ITB to share the enormous importance of this day going forward and hand out certificates of appreciation and acknowledgment to invited organizations present at ITB on 9 March at 5:20pm in Hall 3/1.b.

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SAUDI ARABIA MARKS ITB DEBUT

The Gulf state is exhibiting at ITB Berlin for the first time as part of its Vision 2030 to build tourism with new hotels and flight routes.

Saudi Arabia is exhibiting at ITB Berlin for the first time, as the Gulf state wants to lure more tourists with new hotels, restaurants and attractions. Increasing hotel capacity and flight routes and easing visa requirements are part of a strategy for the future entitled Vision 2030. The plans envisions an economic transition towards greater diversity and sustainability.

Saudi Arabia attracts almost two million pilgrims annually with Mecca and Medina, holy sites in Islam. Beyond that however, the country wanted to profit more from tourism, said Hazim Al Hazmi of the Saudi Tourism Authority speaking at the press conference of ITB Berlin at the Palais am Funkturm. The country is currently investing heavily in tourism as part of Vision 2030. As a strategy for

the future it wants to reduce oil dependence by strengthening other sectors.

At its press conference on Media Monday at ITB Berlin, Saudi Arabia presented some of its tourist highlights. In the desert city of Diriyah, marketed under the slogan ’The City of Earth’, the district of Al Bujairi with its winding streets awaits visitors who take a short half-hour drive

from King Khalid International Airport or travel 15 minutes from Riyadh’s city centre. The history of the former Saudi capital is documented in museums.

According to Abdulrahman Aljefri of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, there are plans to significantly expand bed capacity around this historical site and build 38 hotels. Expanding the Bujairi Terrace resort to include 21 luxury and mega-luxury restaurants is seen as a gigantic project.

Fascinating rock formations await visitors to Alula. According to Julia Stubenböck of the Royal Commission for Alula Germany, there are plans to increase bed capacity here too to 5,000 rooms in 2030. Visitors can look forward to numerous adventure activities or relaxing – from volcanic tours to wellness applications at Saudi Arabia’s first Banyan Tree Resort.

According to Abdullah Al-Zahrani of Red Sea Global, beach holidays in

Saudi Arabia are an option too. Currently hotels, apartments and leisure facilities enabling sustainable tourism are being built on the Gulf state’s west coast, where travellers can dive down with colourful marine life in the Red Sea and enjoy sports and leisure activities.

Further information

To find out more about Saudi Arabia, visit Hall 3.2 at ITB Berlin

GEORGIA LEADS festive opening of ITB Berlin

Celebrity figures from the world of politics attended the opening of ITB Berlin 2023.

Governing Mayor of Berlin

Franziska Giffey, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs

Robert Habeck and Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili welcomed the many guests from all over the world to the World’s Largest Travel Trade Show at the City

Cube and setting the stage for events to come.

Along with industry representatives, among them WTTC President Julia Simpson and UNWTO GeneralSecretary Zurab Pololikashvili, they see the industry making a comeback after the crisis caused by the pandemic. Accordingly, there are common strategies being worked on to confront challenges such as climate change. Georgian artists gave an impressive

taste of what this year’s host country has to offer with a programme of show events.

After the years of the pandemic it was important to savour these moments of meeting in person, said Dirk Hoffmann, CFO and interim CEO of Messe Berlin, at the festive opening of the show. Under the heading ‘Open for Change’, 5,500 exhibitors from 150 countries are gathering at ITB Berlin 2023. Taking as its slogan ’Mastering

Transformation’, the ITB Berlin Convention is opening parallel with the show on Tuesday, 7 March, and will host lectures and discussions featuring 400 speakers at 200 sessions, with topics on challenges such as sustainability and digitalisation.

Berlin’s Governing Mayor Franziska Giffey emphasised how important tourism was for the economy as well as the international flair of the German capital. In 2022, the

city had welcomed 10.4 million visitors, more than twice as many as the year before. ITB Berlin was an important showcase for the city which itself was represented as a tourism destination at the event.

Julia Simpson, president and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) stressed how hard the pandemic had hit global tourism. 62 million people worldwide had lost their jobs.

She was delighted the tourism industry was back and that demand was actually exceeding that of 2019. Nevertheless, the industry faced challenges. It was particularly impacted by climate change and had imposed concrete measures upon itself to become carbonneutral by 2050. UNWTO General-Secretary Zurab Pololikashvili sees the resurgence of tourism as a sign of trust. It was the industry’s task now to become more

resilient to global crises and grow even more.

Economics Minister Robert Habeck welcomed the industry’s efforts to improve sustainability. Tourism created cultural bridges, enabled peaceful encounters and an intellectual exchange of views. However, having the freedom to explore the world was no justification for destroying the Earth. For that reason it was urgently necessary to reduce

carbon emissions.

In his speech Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili whetted listeners’ appetites for visiting the country. With its many climate zones and rich history, it offered both nature lovers and culturally interested visitors the opportunity for a fascinating holiday experience. At the show that followed, Georgian artists offered an impressive insight into the country’s wide-ranging

performing arts.

Georgia will also play host to this year’s World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony, which will be staged in Batumi, capital of the Adjara region.

Further information

To find out more about Georgia, visit visitgeorgia.ge

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Tuesday, 7 March 2023 16:30 - 17:00

Events A-Z

08.03.2023

Opening & Welcome Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 10:30 - 10:40

Speaker - Hans-Ingo Biehl - Christoph Carnier

Opening & Welcome - ITB Marketing & Distribution Track Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 10:30 - 10:40

Host - Katie Gallus - Lea Jordan

Opening: The latest Trends for a tech-driven Industry Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 10:30 - 11:00

Day Moderator

- Dirk Rogl

Host

- Lee Hayhurst

New narratives for work in travel Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 10:30 - 12:00

Day Moderator

- Professor Heinz-Dieter Quack

Keynote Speaker & Panelist

- Erik Händeler

Moderator

- Professor Harald Pechlaner

Panelist

- Sybille Reiß - The Honourable Edmund Bartlett

- Oliver Puhe

Google keynote: Insights into the new consumer journey and how businesses can connect with travelers wherever they are

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 10:40 - 11:05

Keynote Speaker

- Michael Trauttmansdorff

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Business Travel Is Back. So Where Do We Go From Here? Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 10:40 - 11:10

Speaker

- Suzanne Neufang

The Science of giving Customers what they want Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 11:00 - 11:30

Moderator

- Lee Hayhurst

Panelist

- Sasha Gainullin - Craig Everett - William Plummer

Car sharing, eBikes, eScooters - is this the future of corporate travel? Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 11:10 - 11:45

Speaker - Fabio Griemens

ITB C-Level Interview - The Evolution of Midscale Hospitality - Louvre Hotels Group Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 11:15 - 11:40

Interview guest

- Eduardo Bosch

Interviewer

- Lea Jordan

- Carlos Cendra Cruz - Martin Reichhart

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 11:30 - 12:00

How Blockchain reshapes Travel Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Keynote Speaker

- Jan-Frederik Valentin

Reconnecting the World Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 11:45 - 12:05

Keynote Speaker - Ray Chen

What business travel means for the hybrid workforce Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 11:45 - 12:30

Speaker - Joachim Schmidt

Speaker & Panelist - Mark Appun

Powered by Blockchain: New Use Cases for Travel Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 12:00 - 12:30

Day Moderator - Dirk Rogl

Panelist

- Jan-Frederik Valentin

Speaker - Anke Hsu

Time is…? Money, recovery, work, holiday, with us, against us, everywhere. Tourism as a keeper of time.

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 12:00 - 13:00

Interviewer - Tobias Klöpf

Keynote Speaker & Panelist

- Birthe Menke

Panelist

- Brian Young - Juliane Becker

Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Taking a Fresh Perspective: A Technologists View of Travel Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 12:10 - 12:40

Interviewer - Lea Jordan

Keynote Speaker & Interview Guest - Garry Wiseman

A data-led Approach to optimizing your Channel Mix and Performance [powered by Siteminder]

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 12:30 - 13:00

Speaker - Andreas Kastl

Mastering Transformation – How electrification in business travel helps companies to reach their CO2 goals

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 12:30 - 13:15

Speaker - Luis Roever

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

ITB C-Level Interview - Tripadvisor Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 12:45 - 13:05

Interview guest

- John Boris

Interviewer - Lea Jordan

Sustainable Business Intelligence

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 13:00 - 13:30

Moderator - Dirk Rogl

Speaker & Panelist

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Blended Travel: Are we all getting remote? Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 13:00 - 14:00

Keynote Speaker & Panelist

- Stephen Dutton

Moderator

- Tobias Klöpf

Panelist

- Frank Grafenstein - Luis Araújo - Dr JuliaSophie Ezinger

Why Travel Loyalty Programs are Essential to Long-term Success Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 13:15 - 13:30

Speaker & Panelist - Charles Ehredt

From Fax to PDF and from a travel booking to a visa - the digitalization of the application for entry documents.

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 13:15 - 13:45

Speaker - Kathrein Walter

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 13:30 - 14:00

How Data become truly personalized Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Speaker

- Vice President Sales Rainer Schäfer - Marc de GIBON

Customer Loyalty in the New Era of Travel and Hospitality Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 13:30 - 14:00

Moderator - Lea Jordan

Panelist

- Charles Ehredt - Vikas Bhola - Amanda Du

Opening: TTA Returns Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 14:00 - 14:05

Day Moderator

- Charlotte Lamp Davies

Gender Equity: The Pathway for the Travel Industry Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 14:00 - 15:00

Keynote Speaker & Interview Guest

- Charuta Fadnis

Moderator

- Sabine Pracht

Panelist

- Traci Mercer - Abu Bundu Kamara - Stephanie Wulf

GenZ and the Transformation of Travel Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 14:00 - 15:00

Moderator & Interviewer

- David Chapman

Panelist

- Lauren Koenig - Shayna Zand - Etienne Matichard

Case Studies: Smart partnerships – How suppliers and T & A companies face the future together

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 14:05 - 14:45

Moderator

- Charlotte Lamp Davies

Speaker

- Thomas Armitt - Pierre Mazurier - Brian Young

- Founder & Head of Hotel Solutions Alex Grant

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

ITB Executive Interview - Airbnb Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 14:10 - 14:30

Interview guest

- Kathrin Anselm

Interviewer

- Lea Jordan

2023 TRAVELER VALUE INDEX: The gap between traveler expectations and industry perceptions

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 14:40 - 15:00

Keynote Speaker - Jennifer Andre

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Best Practices: Mit Herz und Verstand gegen den Fachkräftemangel (in German only) Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 16:00 - 17:00

Moderator & Interviewer

- Dirk Rogl

Speaker

- Michael Schumacher - Christian Rex - Stefanie Berk

Empowering Travelers by Eliminating Unsustainable Choices

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 16:00 - 17:00

Keynote Speaker & Interview Guest

- Gergana Nikolova

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

How we have changed! The new Customer Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Panelist

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 14:45 - 15:30

Moderator & Interviewer

- CEO Douglas Quinby

Panelist

- Luuc Elzinga - Ms Sarah Dines - Travis Pittman

Sustainability through digital visitor guidance in outdoor tourism

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 15:00 - 15:30

Keynote Speaker - Hartmut Wimmer

Wanted: Personal dringend gesucht (in German only)

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 15:00 - 16:00

Keynote Speaker

- Prof. Dr. Heinz-Dieter Quack

Moderator

- Professor Harald Pechlaner

Panelist

- Otto Lindner - Dirk Binding - Norbert Kunz

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

- Ambros Gasser - Juan Lopez - Danielle

Thornton - Dr. Manal Kelig

ITB Travel Tech Startup Session - Where's the Innovation at? Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 16:20 - 16:40

Moderator - Lea Jordan

Panelist

- Suzanna Chiu - Andrea D'Amico - David Soskin

Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Google for Destinations: Visual Experiences on Search Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 16:30 - 17:00

Speaker

- Emmanuel Marot

ITB Travel Tech Startup Pitches - Where's the Innovation at? Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 16:40 - 17:30

Moderator

- Lea Jordan

Panelist

AIDA on TikTok – how to become a love brand for everyone Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 15:10 - 15:40

Speaker - Jonathan Goutkin - Michael SchumacherAlexander Ewig

Augmented Reality – The Potential, The Upsell & The Opportunities

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 15:30 - 16:00

Moderator

- Charlotte Lamp Davies

Speaker

- Samantha Fay - Mr Andrew McGuinness

Cycling, the perfect answer to the needs of today’s tourism

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 15:30 - 16:00

Speaker - Agathe Daudibon

The Truth about the Future of Mobility

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 15:45 - 16:10

Keynote Speaker & Panelist

- Peter Altmann

Moderator

- Lea Jordan

Panelist

- Fernando Martín

What’s Tech Got to Do With It? Supporting Small- and Medium-Sized Travel Businesses [powered by WeTravel]

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 16:00 - 16:30

Speaker - Ted Clements

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

- Andrea D'Amico - David Soskin - Suzanna

Chiu

Speaker

- Nanna Ulsøe - Mr Hicham Benyebdri - Joan Sanz - Mrs Josephine Piplits

Future Work: Wrap up des Tages (in German only) Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 17:00 - 17:30

Interview guest

- Professor Heinz-Dieter Quack - Sabine Pracht

Interviewer

- Pia Mingenbach

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Travel Smart - TRZMO Super App for Frictionless Travel [powered by TRZMO] Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 17:00 - 17:30

Speaker

- Myank Jain

Adventure Connect Adventure Means

Business: Sustainable Adventure Travel & Your Bottom Line

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 17:00 - 19:00

Moderator & Interviewer

- Mira Poling Anselmi - Shannon Stowell

Panelist

- Ruth Franklin - Nils Olsen - Kristiina Hietasaari

- Jeanette Buller - Simon Bosshart - Bertrand Charlet

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Verleihung des DGT-ITB Wissenschaftspreises 2023 (Language: German only)

Wednesday, 8 March 2023 17:30 - 18:30

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Moderator

- Monika Bandi Tanner

Panelist

- Prof. Dr. Ralf Roth - Prof. Dr. Jürgen Schmude

- Prof. Dr. Anna Klein - Prof. Dr. Markus Pillmayer

09.03.2023

Adapt to Thrive: The Latest Trends and Branding Strategies in the MICE Market. Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 11:15 - 11:45

Moderator

- Doreen Biskup

Speaker

- Marco Oelschlegel, CMP - Matthias Schultze

Speaker & Panelist

- Christiane Seelgen

Welcome to the ITB MICE Track Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 10:30 - 10:45

Speaker - Bernd Fritzges

Tourism: Can we preserve the world while enjoying it? Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 10:30 - 11:00

Interviewer

- Prof. Dr. Willy Legrand

Keynote Speaker & Interview Guest

- Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. Hans Joachim Schellnhuber

Is it too late for airlines to catch up with the rest of the retailing world?

Thursday, 9 March 2023 11:30 - 12:00

Speaker

- Miss Alice Ferrari

How Startup Incubators can help Shape and Transform the Future of the Industry

Thursday, 9 March 2023 11:45 - 12:15

Speaker

- Jasmine Mortimer

Digital, Personalized and Open - How DMO gain ground in digital travel

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 10:30 - 11:45

Is Destination Thinking still state of the art? Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Keynote Speaker & Panelist

- Professor Harald Pechlaner

Moderator

- Reinhard Lanner

Panelist

- Dr Jonathan Gómez Punzón - Dr. Heike DöllKönig - Anthony Everett

Opening and Welcome - ITB eTravel Track, Day 3 Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 10:45 - 11:00

Host

- Lea Jordan - Charlotte Lamp Davies

Kernkompetenz Emotional Transformation: Wieso sie so wichtig ist und wie sie gelingt! (Session in German only)

Thursday, 9 March 2023 10:45 - 11:15

Speaker

- Daniela Roeske

Sustainable Markets Initiative- Task Force for Hospitality & Tourism

Thursday, 9 March 2023 11:00 - 11:10

Keynote Speaker

- Glenn Mandziuk - John Holland-Kaye - Xenia zu Hohenlohe

Future of Travel : Empowering Travelers To Make The Most Out Of Each Trip.

Thursday, 9 March 2023 11:00 - 11:30

Speaker

- Innovation Program Director Fred OdeenJulie Ann Shainock

CEO Panel - Connecting the dots on ESG: The Future of Corporate Success in Hospitality?

Thursday, 9 March 2023 11:10 - 12:00

Moderator

- Prof. Dr. Willy Legrand - Xenia zu Hohenlohe

Panelist

- Jörg Böckeler - Gloria Fluxà ThienemannMarloes Knippenberg - Glenn Mandziuk

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 11:45 - 12:40

Moderator

- Dirk Rogl

Speaker & Panelist

- James Berzins - Keith Tan - Alexa Brandau

Transformation through transparency: Industry partnership to display climate footprints at the Point-of-Sale

Thursday, 9 March 2023 12:00 - 12:10

Keynote Speaker

- Swantje Lehners

Moderator & Interviewer

- Xenia zu Hohenlohe

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Automation in Travel & Hospitality Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 12:00 - 12:30

Moderator

- Lea Jordan Panelist

- Stephen Burke - Emilie Dumont - Alex Jara

Delivering on Climate and Biodiversity

Promises: From ambitions to best practices

Thursday, 9 March 2023 12:10 - 13:00

Moderator

- Mr Graeme Jackson - Xenia zu Hohenlohe Panelist

- Jane Ashton - Carolina Mendonça - Virginia

Messina - Mag. (FH) Thomas SchönigNoredah Othman

How to achieve more without doing moreusing Project NICE as an example?!

Thursday, 9 March 2023 12:15 - 12:45

Speaker - Stefan Schumacher

Game over OTAs? New Strategies for turning Data into Direct Bookings [powered by Triptease]

Thursday, 9 March 2023 12:30 - 13:00

Keynote Speaker - Charlie Osmond

Release of World Tourism Economy Trends Report 2023

Thursday, 9 March 2023 12:40 - 12:50

Keynote Speaker

- Esecan Terzibasoglu

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

future eventlocation - breaking the boundaries between productive playground & performance hub

Thursday, 9 March 2023 12:45 - 13:15

Speaker & Panelist

- Jan Czyszke - Florian Wirthgen

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

- Rika Jean-Francois

Keynote Speaker

- His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Mausoom

Wellness-Trends 2023: Terms and figures An overview of the current trends in the German wellness market

Thursday, 9 March 2023 14:00 - 14:30

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Speaker

Thursday, 9 March 2023 12:50 - 13:25

Outlook of Chinese Tourism Market 2023 Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Moderator

- Richard Matuzevich

Panelist

- Simeon Shi - Ainura Zhumatayeva - Ralf

Ostendorf - Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Georg Arlt

Transforming Tourism: 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as a guiding star for transformative action

Thursday, 9 March 2023 13:00 - 13:10

Keynote Speaker

- Antje Monshausen

Moderator & Interviewer

- Xenia zu Hohenlohe

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

- Roland Fricke - Michael Altewischer

Navigating the New Landscape of Corporate Travel Business Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 14:10 - 14:30

Speaker - Laura Cresswell

Co-creating Climate Resilience & Climate Responsibility in Destinations Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 14:10 - 14:50

Moderator - Audrey Scott

Panelist

- Shannon Stowell - Director Lars Peter NissenGopinath PARAYIL - Samuel Karani - Dr. Sreeja

K.G.

Thursday, 9 March 2023 13:00 - 13:30

Payment Trends in Travel & Hospitality Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Moderator - Lea Jordan

Panelist

- Paul Batchelor - Stephan Esten-Feilen - Mark Rademaker

Measuring Tourism Sustainability: data, reporting, action Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 13:10 - 14:00

Moderator

- Xenia zu Hohenlohe - Prof. Dr. Willy Legrand

Panelist

- Founder & CEO Eric Ricaurte - Benjamin Park

- Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Strasdas - Randy Durband

- Tim Loonen

Bridging the Gap - Diversity ist mehr als Quote (Session in german only)

Thursday, 9 March 2023 13:15 - 13:45

Moderator

- Doreen Biskup

Speaker & Panelist

- Karin Ruppert - Andrea Schuler -

Eventmanager Nora Hase

Hospitality Distribution Trends

Thursday, 9 March 2023 13:30 - 14:00

Moderator

- Lea Jordan

Panelist

- Yin Law - RAINER GRUBER - Pedro ColacoMirja Sickel

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Handling in-destination friction with the help of technology

Thursday, 9 March 2023 14:30 - 15:00

Keynote Speaker & Panelist

- Manuel Hilty

Moderator

- Lea Jordan

Panelist

- Nicolas Martiquet

Tranformative, Regenerative and Wellness Travel: Boundaries and Opportunities

Thursday, 9 March 2023 14:30 - 15:00

Speaker - PhD MA MSc CMC László Puczkó

Hospitality & Society | from experience to meaning

Thursday, 9 March 2023 14:30 - 15:45 Day Moderator - dr. Karoline Wiegerink

Keynote Speaker & Panelist

- Daniel Rudasevki

Moderator

- Yasemin Oruc

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

New dimension of luxury calls for new concepts Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 13:40 - 14:20

Panelist

- Maestro Facundo Agudin - Dr. Mario KrauseKirsten Feld-Tuerkis

Speaker & Panelist

- Marc Aeberhard

Tourism & Resilience: The dangers of global warming for all island nations due to rising sea levels

Thursday, 9 March 2023 14:00 - 14:10

Host

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Panelist

- Sophie Hulgard - Lukas Lauber - Claire Whitely

- Inge Van Ooteghem

Corporate Travel & Tech - Narrowing the Sustainability Say-Do Gap

Thursday, 9 March 2023 15:00 - 15:30

Keynote Speaker & Panelist

- Salman Syed

Moderator

- Lea Jordan

Panelist

- Jonas Hammes

Studiosus-Gespräch: Klimaschutz – ein Menschenrecht? (in German)

Thursday, 9 March 2023 15:00 - 16:00

Moderator

- Tanja Samrotzki

Panelist

- Peter-Mario Kubsch - Luis von RandowMichael Windfuhr - Prof. Dr. Harald Zeiss

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

UNWTO Roundtable Discussion: Connecting sports tourism to health

Thursday, 9 March 2023 15:00 - 16:15

Moderator

- Rika Jean-Francois

Panelist

- Kristjan Stanii - Simone Zagrodnik - Ceylan Sensoy - Patrick, Torrent

Speaker

- Josip Pavic - Ambassador Ion Vilcu

Aligning the Megatrends Sustainability and Digitalisation within the Tourism Industry –an Oxymoron? [powered by NeedNect Solutions]

Thursday, 9 March 2023 15:30 - 16:00

Speaker - Ines Ganner

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Tourism in the Metaverse - In 2022, Discover Atlanta launched as the first destination on the Visit Real Cities (VRC) platform - the first metaverse solution built for tourism

Thursday, 9 March 2023 17:00 - 17:30

Speaker - Martin Stoll

The German Supply Chain Act: Impacts on the German Tour Operator Market and its Suppliers Worldwide

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 17:00 - 17:45

Moderator

- Prof. Dr. Willy Legrand - Xenia zu Hohenlohe

Panelist

- Haeupl Manfred - Laura Steden - Dirk MeyerAlexandra Michat

Thursday, 9 March 2023 15:45 - 16:45

The Rise of Lifestyle and Experience Brands Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Keynote Speaker & Panelist

- Aquin Mathew

Moderator

- James Stuart

Panelist

- Martin Egner - Mark James - Ingmar Sloothaak

Trends & Developments in the Vacation Rental Market to Watch

Thursday, 9 March 2023 16:00 - 16:40

Moderator

- Lea Jordan

Panelist

- Dr. Patrick Andrae - Richard Au - Tim Rosolio

Speaker & Panelist

- Stefan Trienen - Matthias Peterhans

Shaping a just and equitable industry transformation

Thursday, 9 March 2023 16:00 - 17:00

Keynote Speaker

- Dirk Meyer

Moderator

- Xenia zu Hohenlohe - Prof. Dr. Willy Legrand

Panelist

- Merten Sievers - Leila Ben-Gacem - Ben Owen

- Anjana Raza

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Celebrate GLOBAL TOURISM RESILIENCE DAY approved by the United Nations (followed by short reception)

Thursday, 9 March 2023 17:20 - 18:00

Keynote Speaker

- The Honourable Edmund Bartlett

Speaker

- Ibrahim Osta - Debbie Flynn

Many actors, one common goal: The sector dialogue on tourism for sustainable development

Thursday, 9 March 2023 17:45 - 17:55

Interview guest

- Dirk Meyer - Norbert Fiebig

Interviewer

- Xenia zu Hohenlohe

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Zooming In – The Sector Dialogue in Colombia Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 17:55 - 18:05

Moderator - Prof. Dr. Willy Legrand

Speaker

- Constanza Correa Sarmiento

Open reception of the Sector Dialogue “Tourism for Sustainable Development”

Thursday, 9 March 2023 18:10 - 19:00

Host

- Sector dialogue Tourism for Sustainable Development

Hall 7.1a Orange Stage

Women & Medical Value Tourism Hall 3.1 Green Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 16:25 - 17:10

Moderator

- Ivana Kolar

Panelist

- Claudia Wagner - Rika Jean-Francois - Petra

Lelovska - Vinita Rashinkar

Is your destination data driven? Explore A.I. and data’s role in Destination Management and in defining the ideal traveler.

Thursday, 9 March 2023 16:40 - 17:00

Speaker - Mirko Lalli - Frank Heise

Hall 6.1 eTravel Stage

Thursday, 9 March 2023 16:45 - 17:30

Future Outlook Hospitality Innovation Hall 7.1b Blue Stage

Moderator - Dr. Alexander Schmidt

Panelist

- Patrick O’ Meara - Matthijs Welle - Sarah Cojocaru - Connor Ryterski - Dirk Bakker

Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism partner for QAtar International Food Festival 2023

Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism have announced the 12th Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) will take place from 11-21 March at a new waterfront location in Qatar’s newest city, Lusail.

The world-class festival is set to bring together many unique culinary experiences, featuring the biggest names in hospitality, outstanding restaurants, a cooking theatre, nightly fireworks shows and live entertainment.

This year, QIFF will celebrate the world’s best cuisines, in a picturesque environment at Al Saad Plaza, between the iconic architecture of Lusail towers at Lusail Boulevard, the street synonymous with the 2022 FIFA World Cup final celebrations. The festival is set to provide incredible gastronomic delights in collaboration with international and local celebrity chefs.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive and Qatar Tourism Chairman His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “QIFF has proven to be one of the most popular festivals over the years and this year Qatar Airways’ global destinations are being represented via the amazing national dishes and cooking influences on display at this international event. I am confident that Qatar’s food tourism industry will continue to grow at an exponential rate due to our exciting calendar of globally appealing events.

Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism are working hand in hand to cement our country’s strong position as a desirable travel gateway, renowned for a multitude of events, sporting competitions, festivals and amazing food.”

Gastronomy lovers can look forward to 100 kiosks featuring a variety of culinary delights, a nightly cooking theatre, two premium catered food lounges in collaboration with 5-star hotels, afternoon tea, daily entertainment, a skating rink and a family-friendly fun-filled atmosphere.

They can savour the very best of Indonesia, home to the famed Spice Islands as this year’s event will honour the QatarIndonesia 2023 Year of Culture. Visitors can sample dishes that bind the country’s diverse culinary traditions with a rich complex flavour. The food festival will also feature a special Qatari cultural tent that includes local delicacies, and a fascinating experience with Le Petit Chef, an interactive dining experience using 3D mapping, in collaboration with The Ritz Carlton, Doha.

Additionally, to celebrate the upcoming International Horticultural Expo 2023 Qatar, which will take place in October under the theme “Green Desert, Better Environment,” a special kiosk will be present with special plant giveaways for festival visitors. t of their curiosity and imagination.

Further information

Visit visitqatar.com to find out more, or head over to Hall 2.2/207 at ITB Berlin.

WTTC unveils sustainability label at ITB

The aim is that by fulfilling 12 criteria in three categories, every hotel owner can actively set course for a sustainable future, regardless of size, location or corporate structure. On condition the criteria are met within three years, companies will receive a seal of approval showing guests they are taking the sustainability concept seriously.

Julia Simpson, President, WTTC, said: “The tourism industry wants self-imposed sustainability criteria to encourage the entire hospitality industry to engage with this concept.”

With this seal of approval every type of accommodation could show it was willing and could implement it as a bare minimum. Requirements include measuring and reducing energy and water consumption, programmes for re-using clothing, use of green cleaning agents, choice of

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Sustainable Hospitality Alliance have unveiled their joint Hotel Sustainability Basics label at ITB Berlin 2023.

vegetarian dishes, plastic avoidance as well as evidence of benefiting the community and reducing inequality.

The travel and tourism industry had for some time already been making a clear move in the direction of greater sustainability, Simpson said. At the same time many hotel companies still faced big challenges in this area, in particular due to financial hardship and staff shortages. For that reason, the world’s hotel industry was coming together to determine decisive first steps which every hotel, regardless of size, resources and progress to date could and should undertake in order to establish a basic level of sustainability across the entire sector.

The criteria were intended as a first step on the path to gradually embracing sustainability which could then branch out in more ambitious directions such as the Pathway

to Positive Hospitality of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, added: “Collectively, hospitality is a force not be underestimated. Our vision is that of a thriving and responsible hospitality sector that gives destinations back more than it takes.“

By pursuing the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality with a holistic approach the aim was to bring people, planets, places and wealth together to create a better and more sustainable future for everyone“, Mandziuk said. “Now is the time to act!“ agreed Inge Huijbrechts, global senior vice president, Sustainability, Security and Corporate Communications, Radisson Hotel Group: “A lot of guests would like to see corporate management be more sustainable, but many hotel owners have no idea where to start. That is where the seal of approval comes in.”

Understaffing threatens tourism recovery, shows new study led by Jamaica’s Minister Bartlett

A newly-formed Tourism Employment Expansion Mandate (TEEM) project, under the leadership of Jamaica’s Minister Edmund Bartlett, has released new research showing that workforce deficit in the travel industry is more critical than ever.

The project has been put in place by the Global Travel and Tourism Resilience Council (RC) to monitor emerging trends and promotes resilience.

While the tourism sector has fuelled the global economy of up to 10.6%, the findings show that tourism is a vulnerable sector that has felt the impact of the global pandemic with a loss of more than 62 million workers according to the World Economic Forum.

Working on behalf of TEEM to ensure a broad cross section are organizations such as EEA, GTTP, Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, A World for Travel, Medov Logistics, JMG, EMG, FINN Partners, LATA, USAID Developing Sustainable

Tourism in Bosnia Herzegovina and others. The research was conducted globally across travel and tourism industry. The key findings include:

Alarming deficit figures – 68 percent of respondents said they are currently understaffed. Whilst the deficit of the workforce has been widely discussed – there’s been no data to understand how widely the issue is being felt across the industry. The resource shortage remains critical in food preparation, technology, AI, sales and reservations.

Deficit due to the industry’s image – 88 percent of the global travel and tourism industry recognize the deficit in the workforce and attribute

that to a reputational challenge, leading to a lack of talent in the industry. The same amount would welcome and support an initiative to understand talent sentiment.

Younger demographic harder to attract – 62 percent said the 25–45-year-olds are the most difficult talent to attract to travel and tourism. Talent is choosing to pursue jobs in technology and pharmaceuticals rather than the travel industry.

No action to address the issue – 80 percent of respondents said they leave jobs open longer than in previous years and 82 percent leave jobs open rather than pushing through other means. This indicates that the travel and tourism industry is taking a wait and see approach rather than taking action to address the issue.

The research was initially presented at the Global Tourism Resilience Conference in Kingston, Jamaica in celebration of February 17th being declared Global Tourism Resilience Day by the United Nations. A day which is focused on driving global resilience within the travel industry. This is the first phase of the planned research being driven by Arvensis Search for TEEM. The next step will look at understanding the talent sentiment and identifying reasons for attrition and migration to other industries.

TEEM was represented on two panels to discuss the human capital crisis identified by the research, and steps that can be taken to address it. Both Anne Lotter, Executive Director of GTTP and Christian Delom, Secretary General of the A World for Travel stressed that engaging the future talent pipeline with an interactive and exciting curricula and retaining staff by adapting the business model to align with students’ expectations were some of the suggestions made by the panel. The panel, agreed that education is key, offering a professional training programme which balances skills and training to ensure future employees do not transfer out of the sector. Ibrahim Osta, USAID Developing

Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Chief of Party also presented models of best practice in human capital development for the tourism sector from various countries including Jordan, Bosnia and Herzegovina. He presented a four-pronged approach for the Industry that includes expanding the demand for tourism jobs through employer brand awareness campaigns, upgrading vocational training for youth, improving higher education institutions’ curricula and implementing industry-based training to upskill existing workers, all elements of the TEEM plans going forward.

Minister Bartlett, the Resilience Council’s CoChair said: “Resilience is not a destination…it’s a journey. We all must be on this journey together in collaboration with each other to ensure that economic parameters and the social conditions are improved, while climate and the environment are addressed. Resilience means we prepare for

crises rather than react to them. Let us not have gone through this pandemic without having learned the lessons. Across the world there are examples that we can replicate while we improve our own responses, we lift those who have not the capacity. We build capacity and we share best practices, new technologies and social philosophies that ensure local supply chains are maximized as workers are embraced and thrive within the sector.”

The Minister is discussing the work of Project TEEM and resilience of the industry throughout ITB Berlin. He is joining the ‘New Narratives for Work’ panel session moderated by established tourism author Harald Pechlaner for Destination Resilience, Routeledge, 2018.

More Information

For more information on Project TEEM or to be involved, write to TEEM@resiliencecouncil.com

Last year saw strong visitor arrivals to the island, the return of events and a significant number of tourism developments

Breaking Travel News spotlight on: Saint Lucia

The paradise Caribbean island simplifies arrivals process as final Covid-19 restrictions removed

Ahead of the key summer tourism season, the government of Saint Lucia has confirmed that a health screening form is no longer required for travel to the island. All other Covid-19-related pre-travel requirements for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers were removed in September.

Last year saw strong visitor arrivals to the island, the return of events and a significant number of tourism developments. Moreover, airlift from international markets continues to provide excellent access for the UK with daily direct BA flights and weekly direct TUI flights from Gatwick, with a winter service three times a week from Virgin Atlantic out of Heathrow.

Embarkation/Disembarkation

Also, as from this month, the entry process for Saint Lucia is even more seamless with the introduction of an online Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) form

that allows for the electronic processing of travellers.

The introduction of the online ED form is delivered by the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission and funded through the eleventh European Development Fund. It is also in line with initiatives by the government of Saint Lucia, towards a digital conversion of public sector services, for the continued improvement of the operational competencies and simplicity of conducting business on the island.

The electronic ED Form will replace the written form, providing real-time information to immigration, customs, and port health, and will significantly reduce the processing time of arriving passengers. The system has been comprehensively tested at the George Charles Airport (SLU) and at the Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), with overwhelmingly positive feedback from the executing agencies.

Completion of the online ED form is only applicable to air travel and is not a requirement for boarding; however passengers should submit prior arrival in Saint Lucia for swift processing on arrival. If the electronic form has not been completed by the time a passenger arrives in Saint Lucia, then the written form, provided by the airline or in country, will be required.

“We continuously strive to secure our borders and provide quality service to travelers at our points of entry while protecting the safety and security of our nationals, visitors, and business associates with a reliable immigration system.

“In advancing our seamless entry process, the written form will be phased out as of April this year,” remarked, Sean Alexander, assistant superintendent in charge of the department of immigration.

The introduction and technical support of the electronic Embarkation/ Disembarkation process has been spearheaded through the joint efforts of the departments of immigration, border control and customs of the ministry of home affairs, justice and national security, the ministry of health and the OECS.

More Information

Saint Lucia was honoured with the title of ‘World's Leading Honeymoon Destination’ at the World Travel Awards in 2022.

Find out more about visiting the island on the official website at www.stlucia.org – or head over to Hall 22/102A here at ITB Berlin 2023 to catch up with the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority.

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Nakheel drives new growth phase

Master-developer Nakheel is progressing the new phase of its growth, and accelerating the development of its new projects including Dubai Islands and other large waterfront projects.

The Dubai-based developer has secured AED 17 billion in strategic financing deal to drive its growth. The refinancing of AED 11 billion has been secured through a syndicate of three banks, Mashreq Bank, Dubai Islamic Bank and Emirates NBD demonstrating strong financial foundations and long-term growth prospects of the company.

The transactions will further strengthen its financial position, and reflects the confidence of the banking institutions in the strategic new focus of the company. Nakheel’s residential. retail and hospitality assets have recorded excellent growth despite the challenges of the pandemic. The company’s fiscal focus, highlighted by efficient management of resources and a stable retail and hospitality portfolio, has gained the trust of its customers and financial institutions. Over the past two years, Nakheel has also invested in building a strong assets portfolio and pipeline of new developments which will deliver consistent revenue growth in future years, and support the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and ensure the health, wellbeing and happiness of citizens, residents and visitors.

Progress on Tilal Al Furjan project

Nakheel has also appointed GINCO General Contracting and Bhatia General Contracting to undertake the construction works of its Tilal Al Furjan project.

GINCO General Contracting will work on the first phase of the project, comprising 235 units, while Bhatia General Contracting will work on second phase, comprising 246 units.

GINCO General Contracting brings to the project over 35 years of experience, specialising in construction, maintenance and rehabilitation of various commercial, industrial, residential and institutional establishments. Bhatia General Contracting has delivered over 250 projects over four decades, earning its reputation as a leading civil contractor since its establishment in 1975.

Located within the Al Furjan master community, Tilal Al Furjan will be a gated community with an ocean of lush, green landscaping and expansive outdoor spaces. A collection of four- and fivebedroom villas, Tilal Al Furjan will offer residents an elevated lifestyle, stylish homes and a host of curated amenities for families.

Homes are connected by cycle paths and walk-ways leading to shared community spaces, encouraging community integration. Residents will benefit from large pools with kids’ pools, tennis and basketball courts, shaded play areas, family picnic areas and outdoor barbeque areas.

The project has sold out, illustrating the strong demand for Nakheel’s developments, and handover of the project is expected by end of 2024.

Magical experiences with Diamonds Resorts

Diamonds Resorts are luxury all-inclusive resorts situated in unique, magical and idyllic locations. The brand’s philosophy is to listen to the individual needs of guests in order to offer personalised services, exquisite culinary experiences and exclusive services to make each stay extraordinary and unforgettable.

Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort, Kenya

Set in fabulous botanical gardens, Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort is a haven to relax and rejuvenate. Situated on 38 acres of beachfront property, it features an 18-hole golf course overlooking the Indian Ocean. The resort also offers a casino, spa and outdoor swimming pool.

Each air-conditioned room and suite comes with modern African-inspired décor, satellite TV and a safety deposit box. The en-suite bathroom includes complimentary toiletries.

Guests can relax on Diani Beach or with a massage at the Lotus Health & Relaxation Centre. They can also enjoy activities such as scuba diving or a round of golf.

Leisure Lodge is located just 10 minutes’ drive from Colombus Trust and 15 minutes' drive from the Kaya Kinondo sacred forest. Likoni Ferry is 21.7 miles away and Mombasa

International Airport is 26.1 miles from the resort.

Diamonds Athuruga, Maldives

Boasting elegant beach bungalows, junior suite and beautiful over-water villas, Diamonds Athuruga is a paradise located at just a 20 minutes scenic flight away from Malé International Airport.

The wellness centre offers a variety of treatments and Ayurvedic massages and a well-equipped diving centre provides enthusiasts with the very best underwater experiences.

Athuruga is the ideal resort to discover the Maldives from a centre of excellence, where attention to detail will make your journey unforgettable. Let yourself be charmed by one of the most unique, enchanting well known coral reefs in the Maldives and discover its secrets thanks to the marine biologists on the island.

Sustainability lies at the heart of the resort’s philosophy. In partnership with Parley Maldives, waste segregation, PET 1 plastics are collected from the resort, water ways and sent for repurposing and recycling plastics into clothing and accessories. The Olive Ridley Project identifies turtles with a resort made database which adds to the larger ORP database.

Diamonds Thudufushi Beach & Water Villas, Maldives

The Diamonds Thudufushi resort is situated just a 20 minute scenic seaplane flight away from Malé International Airport. Thudufushi is the ideal resort to start discovering the Maldives in a centre of excellence, where every detail has been carefully selected to make your journey unforgettable.

The island resort features elegant beach bungalows and luxury over water villas. A

wellness centre offers ayurvedic treatments and a diving centre caters to the underwater experience of our guests.

Dives and excursions are conducted with experts, from biologists who reveal the secrets of the reef to qualified personnel who make stays unique and unforgettable.

Sustainability is key to the resort’s approach, including its

partnership with Parley Maldives, for repurposing and recycling the plastics. A new state-of-the-art marine laboratory has been inaugurated at Diamonds Thudufushi, between Planhotel Hospitality Group and the University of MilanoBicocca, Italy. The partnership will ensure ongoing coral restoration and coral conservation activities.

Diamonds Dreams of Africa, Kenya

Diamonds Dreams of Africa is where the enchanting force of nature melds with the exotic IndoArabic architecture to create a hypnotic charm, which, in Swahili, is known as bembeleza.

Sit yourself down on the Balinese armchairs on your room’s terrace and listen to the sound of the wind and the rustling of the palm trees, enjoy the music of the waves and let your heart dance in silence: your dream of total relaxation is finally a reality.

The Resort is located along the silver sand beach of Malindi, a twohour drive from Mombasa International Airport and 15 minutes from Malindi Airport.

Sandies Tropical Village, Kenya

Sandies Tropical Village in Malindi has been built according to Kenyan tradition but features all modern comforts. An oasis of tranquillity, the Resort features 109 garden rooms built in two levels semi-circle structure with private balconies at first floor and terraces at ground

More information

floor. All rooms are designed in Lamu or English style with large bathroom with walk-in shower.

Let the sound of the ocean gently cuddle you and be amazed every day by the wonderful colours of the sunsets that make Kenya a place famous and unique in the world.

To find out more about Diamonds Hotels & Resorts and Plan Hospitality Group visit www.planhotel.com, or head over to Hall 21/102.

Located

Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua announces new General Manager

Jean-Pierre Joncas has been named General Manager of Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua

The Canadian has over 20 years of experience in international hospitality. His most recent experience in Vietnam started as Pre-Opening General Manager at Hotel de la Coupole followed by Hotel Des Arts MGallery, Ho Chi Minh City with Area General Manager responsibilities for Southern Vietnam Accor. His career in the hospitality industry has taken him from Canada, the Middle East to Asia. He served as Director of Operations at Park Hyatt Maldives and Patina Capitol Singapore before being appointed Hotel Manager at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Cambodia.

Bali Paradise

Surrounded by swaying palm trees, white sand beach and pristine clear turquoise water, Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort brings all the key elements of a premium international beachfront resort to one of the world’s most soughtafter holiday and business travel destinations.

The resort offers an innovative blend of sophisticated facilities for an ultimate beachfront experience. Located within the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation complex of Nusa Dua, one of the island’s most affluent addresses, and within 15 minutes driving range from Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Discover this stunning destination, blending authentic Balinese charm and French

He is a passionate hospitality professional who aspires to propel the Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua to the top of Bali’s hotel scene by leveraging his experience in high-end hospitality to improve guest experiences, increase sustainability, and inspire his team to new heights of performance.

He will continue to develop and strengthen the hotel’s successful positioning in the Bali luxury hospitality market as General Manager of the 413-room hotel in the heart of Nusa Dua, Bali. Jean-Pierre Joncas earned his Master Certificate in Hospitality Management from Cornell University.

elegance, situated in the peninsula of the exotic islandof the gods. A lavish and sophisticated beachfront retreat offering the height of tropical luxury with its 413 exquisite rooms, including 22 suites and 17 villas for a true five-star experience.

For more information visit: sofitel.accor.com

Aman Resorts partners with Cruise Saudi

Cruise Saudi and Aman Resorts have teamed up to create a new venture. Neptune Co. will handle ultra-luxury super-yachts, including the Project Sama yacht.

The partnership will see Aman diversify its offerings not only on land but also at sea with the creation of the 183-metre motor yacht. Each of the 50 suites will feature a private balcony.

Defining a whole new category in on the water exploration, Project Sama has been designed by SINOT Yacht Architecture & Design and will bring the revered spirit of Aman to the world’s oceans in 2025.

The project will set a new standard in waterborne

voyages. Aman will manage the development process –from design and build to operations and management – ensuring that guests enjoy the Aman way of life onboard, in every sense. Project Sama will champion privacy, space, and hospitality.

The vessel will see Aman’s eastern heritage and design philosophy integrated seamlessly with the architectural vision to create the brand’s expression of a superyacht experience in a timeless yet contemporary vessel, which has a

harmonious balance between the exterior and interior spaces.

In addition to the 50-suites, the vessel will be home to an array of dining options, including an informal all-day restaurant, plus international dining options and a relaxed club and lounge, a serene and spacious Aman Spa, complete with a Japanese garden, two helipads, plus the expansive Beach Club, which will offer guests direct access to the water at the stern of the yacht.

20 22

World's Leading Tourist Attraction

20 22 World's Leading Cultural Destination

Machupicchu, Cusco

Breaking Travel News spotlight on: BELIZE

Belize is poised for strong tourism growth as the idyllic Central American destination welcomes new air lift.

The latest statistics for both overnight and cruise ship tourist arrivals provide a clear and strong signal that the tourism industry in Belize has recovered and is now poised to achieve higher records in 2023.

In 2022, the destination registered 370,524 overnight tourist arrivals –representing 69 per cent growth over the previous year. The year also registered 615,021 cruise tourism

arrivals, with 40 cruise ship calls on Belizean ports in December 2022 alone.

A statement from the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) said: “We are pleased with the swift recovery of our industry and take note that the surge in international flights to Belize, assertive marketing in our source markets and the strong support and collaboration from industry

stakeholders were the main elements for a successful year.”

The BTB added that it remains committed to proactively and effectively promoting Belize as a premier destination for the benefit of both Belizeans and international travellers and looks forward to the further growth of the tourism sector this year.

Air lift

Belize continues to be a growing, viable and a must-visit destination in Central America. A testament to this is the continuous increase of airline flights from Canada and North America during the winter season.

Late last year, WestJet resumed its flights to Belize from Toronto, Canada. Flights operate every Wednesday and Saturday from Toronto, and from Calgary on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays until the end of next month. Southwest Airlines also resumed a daily flight service from Houston, Texas, and a weekend service from Denver, Colorado.

Meanwhile, Alaska Airlines commenced flights with a four times per week non-stop service from Los Angeles, California, and three times per week non-stop

service from Seattle, Washington. In addition to the above seasonal flights, other airlines continue to offer flights to Belize.

A statement added: “The Belize Tourism Board is delighted about the increase in the seasonal flights being offered by the airlines and welcomes all visitors to our shores. “Belize is a country where Mother Nature thrives abundantly. The distinctive blend offered by our rainforest and reef-based tourism, combined with unique experiences deeply rooted within our cultural fabric, our warm hospitality and excellent cuisine places our tourism in a class of its own.

“We are by all accounts a blessed country. It is therefore not surprising that visitors will always be spellbound with the kaleidoscope of beauty and attractions that Belize has to offer.”

More Information

The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is the legislated body designed to govern, enhance and promote the Belize tourism product. The body undertakes numerous strategic initiatives as well as the implementation of tourism policies to address the changing needs of the tourism industry. The goal is to ensure the socioeconomic growth of Belize through prudent, transparent and effective governance.

To find out mor head over to the official tourism website at www.belizetourismboard.org or visit the Belize Tourism Board here at ITB Berlin in Hall 22/212.

Belize was honoured with the title of ‘Mexico & Central America’s Leading Dive Destination’ in 2022 by voters at the World Travel Awards.

BCD Travel expands Amadeus partnership

BCD Travel has expanded its agreement with Amadeus as the forward-looking travel management company (TMC) refines its global technology approach to best capitalise on opportunities in the new era of business travel.

Under the new agreement, the two organisations will partner on multiple initiatives, each designed to provide BCD Travel with a platform for growth, productivity improvement and technological innovation.

BCD Travel will leverage Amadeus’ technology, travel expertise, content, and global footprint to support its operations in additional markets.

This includes incorporating Amadeus’ industry leading NDC content and end-to-end workflow capabilities.

“BCD is delighted to be expanding our long-standing partnership with Amadeus,” said BCD chief executive, John Snyder.

“This agreement allows us to engage on deeper technology collaboration and deliver high value services through the Amadeus Travel Platform.

“The expansion of our partnership will provide our corporate clients with more content options, including bringing NDC to life at scale, while streamlining and simplifying our distribution technology footprint and infrastructure.”

For Amadeus, the new agreement also means increased business with a leading global TMC, including opportunities in the UK, Ireland, and North America.

Decius Valmorbida, president, travel, Amadeus, said: “We are proud to extend and expand our long-standing partnership with BCD Travel.

“As the leading technology company in the travel industry, we consistently invest to deliver superior products and services to our customers.

“The new agreement presents significant potential for mutual growth, and we look forward to partnering with BCD Travel on initiatives to address future challenges and opportunities in the business travel space.”

Amadeus won double honours at World Travel Tech Awards 2022, winning ‘World’s Best Airport Technology Provider’ and ‘World’s Best Airport Biometric Technology Provider’.

More information

Head over to Hall 5.1/130 at ITB Berlin to find out more.

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Breaking Travel News spotlight on: Abu Dhabi

Capital of the United Arab Emirates grows global presence as tourism recovers

Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB) has unveiled plans to educate corporates, associations, event organisers, MICE agencies and other industry stakeholders in South Korea about the strong MICE proposition, highlighting it as a dynamic global destination for business events.

Mubarak Al Shamisi, director of Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “We are excited to open our first representative office in South Korea to further establish Abu Dhabi as a premier destination for meetings, incentive travel, conferences, and exhibitions. As we remain focused on progressing the emirate, growing our network of international offices will help us expand our reach in newer markets. With the recent easing of travel restrictions in South Korea, we anticipate great demand for outbound MICE travel,

making it the best time for us to establish our presence in this market.”

In recent years, ADCEB has accelerated its financial and non-financial support towards strategic business events, which includes the launch of Advantage Abu Dhabi 2.0, an enhanced subvention programme that offers event organisers an array of support throughout the event planning cycle, comprising financial assistance and destination-driven valueadds.

ADCEB continues to build strategic partnerships that ensures event objectives are met with world-class experiences for both planners and attendees. Earlier this year, ADCEB formed a strategic partnership with Etihad Airways, to further bolster support for MICE travel groups travelling to Abu Dhabi.

Guided Tours

On the consumer side, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has launched two new self-guided audio tours on the VoiceMap app to highlight some of the amazing natural landscapes and unique urban treasures in the emirate.

Available on Google Play and the App Store, the VoiceMap now features tours of the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Reserve and the longstanding dining spots of the Al Zahiyah neighbourhood. The VoiceMap app already features five audio tours dedicated to Abu Dhabi that were launched last year, including the Abu Dhabi Skyline Tour, Modern Heritage Tour of Downtown Abu Dhabi, Al Hosn Site Architecture Tour, Al Ain Nature and History Tour and Liwa Forts Tour.

The latest additions to the Abu Dhabi library reflect the increased interest among residents and visitors to explore the diverse natural assets and cultural experiences of the emirate by themselves at their own pace.

Developed with the support of Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Reserve Tour takes inquisitive travellers on a fascinating journey into the past, enlightening them about fossil formations that are more than 120,000 years old, spread over seven square kilometres.

The conservation area offers visitors a unique opportunity to stroll along an illuminated three-kilometre trail and enjoy the scenic views of the incredible eco-tourism site. Visitors can also enjoy music and light shows which take place throughout opening hours and can be viewed from the amphitheatre, which holds up to 200 visitors. The site also features various food and beverage trucks in dedicated areas.

During the last period, EAD implemented an integrated plan to develop the reserve, which included developing the site's infrastructure to add more activities that visitors can enjoy during their visit to the reserve.

The Al Wathba Fossils Dunes Reserve welcomes visitors from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm from Monday to Thursday and from 9:00 am12:00 midnight from Friday to Sunday.

Several longstanding establishments, including streetside cafes and bakeries, were recently awarded the ‘Urban Treasures’ status by DCT Abu Dhabi in recognition of their contribution to the social fabric of the emirate.

Using the VoiceMap app, foodies can also hop around the city on the Abu Dhabi Urban Treasures Food Tour to savour culinary delights such as Mexican-style chicken shawarmas, spicy Indian kebabs and traditional Arabic desserts.

More Information

Abu Dhabi was voted ‘World’s Leading Sports Tourism Destination’ by the World Travel Awards in 2022.

To find out more about the emirate, head over to the official website at visitabudhabi.ae, or visit Hall 2.2/200 here at ITB Berlin 2023.

World TV Group specialises in bring you the most vivid, informational and engaging video content on the web. Take a look at our portfolio of 30+ video channels. Discover, watch and share originally-created videos. World TV group is a forum for people to connect, inform and inspire others across the globe.

Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue opens

Miral and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment have announced the opening of Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue, Yas Island, the first dedicated marine research, rescue and rehabilitation centre in the region.

The 8,602 m2 centre, is located on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island and will be a key contributor to marinelife conservation in both the UAE and the wider region by conducting integrated research, rescue, rehabilitation, return and education programmes.

Attended by UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, HE Mariam

Al Mheiri, Chairman of Miral, HE Mohamed

Khalifa Al Mubarak, and a number of UAE officials and senior representatives from SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, the centre’s opening is a commitment to the UAE’s declaration of 2023 as the Year of Sustainability. The centre’s efforts will aim to improve the public’s knowledge and commitment to the conservation of the region’s marine wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems, leveraging the experience and knowledge gained from SeaWorld’s nearly 60 years of marine animal care, rescue, rehabilitation and conservation to the region.

Chairman of Miral, His Excellency Mohamed

Khalifa Al Mubarak, commented on this

milestone, saying, “We are very proud to begin 2023, the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, with opening the first dedicated marine research and rescue centre in the region, Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue. This is a cornerstone in the emirate’s journey of education and conservation, inspiring the next generation of marine scientists to learn more about Abu Dhabi’s impactful long-term vision of protecting our marine wildlife and their habitats. Together with SeaWorld, we will be pushing the limits of science and conservation to become the foremost knowledge hub for marine scientists, not only in the UAE, but also in the wider region.”

He continued, “With this country’s deep ties to the sea, today’s inauguration is the perfect embodiment of the Year of Sustainability’s theme ‘Today for Tomorrow,’ and is our commitment to forging a sustainable future for our future generations.”

Led by a team of dedicated marine scientists, zoologists and subject matter experts in

research, rescue and animal care, the centre will play an important role in research and conservation efforts in the region. The centre’s Research team will conduct fundamental and applied studies focusing on the marine ecology of the Arabian Gulf covering topics such as marine biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, sensitive wildlife conservation, critical habitats restoration, fisheries, pollution and wildlife health.

Chairman of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Scott Ross, said “We are very proud of our partnership with Miral in bringing this first-of-itskind centre to the UAE. Today’s inauguration is many years in the making and we cannot be more excited to make this official announcement and continue our work together to advance the conservation of the region’s amazing and extraordinarily diverse marine life. For nearly 60 years, SeaWorld has maintained its unwavering mission and steadfast commitment to protecting marine animals and their ecosystems and inspiring others to act and care for

marine life. Extending this legacy here in the UAE is important for global conservation and is consistent with the UAE and wider region’s tradition of honoring the importance of the sea.”

Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue is the newest SeaWorld Research and Rescue centre, and the first outside of the U.S. The centre’s inauguration makes it part of a global network and leverages the experience and knowledge gained from SeaWorld’s nearly 60 years of marine animal care, rescue, rehabilitation and conservation to the region. SeaWorld is one of the largest marine animal rescue organizations in the world and its Rescue teams are on-call 365 days a year to respond to animals in need. Since 1965, SeaWorld has rescued more than 40,000 animals, and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue aims to pioneer a marine animal rescue network supporting animals in need in the UAE as well as the wider region.

Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue aims to rescue sick, injured and orphaned marine animals in the Arabian Gulf and to

provide life-saving rehabilitation with the goal of returning healthy animals back to their natural habitats. To facilitate this goal, the centre will have a fleet of rescue vehicles that includes two custommade rescue boats and a state-of-the art veterinary hospital for triage of animals in critical condition. The centre will also have over 25 rescue pools, from large pools for marine mammals to smaller pools for fish, invertebrates and marine reptiles. Two of the larger pools are equipped with lifting floors, which will make access for treatment easier and less disruptive for the animals. An onsite lab at the centre is also equipped with advanced rescue and rehabilitation capabilities including the ability to conduct in-house pathology analysis for wildlife.

The centre will also focus on applied research studies for marine ecosystem restoration with aquaculture-based projects including fish propagation, seagrass cultivation, coral reproduction as well as field projects focusing on critical habitats of Arabian Gulf waters such

as seagrass, mangroves, oyster beds and coral reefs. This research will only be made possible through some of the best subject matter researchers and scientists and by utilizing the stateof-the-art laboratories and infrastructure of the centre, including three dry laboratories, a wet laboratory, and a 345 m3 aquaculture facility which includes live feed culture rooms, brood stock pools and larvae culture pools. The centre’s research team will conduct most of these studies by use of its 12.5 m research vessel decked with the latest field equipment.

For more information, visit: www.seaworldabudhabi.com

our commitment to forging a sustainable future for our future generations

this partnership will allow us to inspire a new generation, heralding a new era of knowledge exchange and collaboration

Abu Dhabi partners with Japan’s Inpex to support teamLab Phenomena

DCT Abu Dhabi inks partnership with Inpex Corporation for the sponsorship of the upcoming teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi.

The Department of Culture and Tourism –Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Inpex Corporation, through its subsidiary Japan Oil Development (JODCO), for a AED28 million sponsorship of the upcoming teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi.

The MoU was signed by His Excellency Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, and Hiroshi Fujii, President and CEO of JODCO.

The experiential art space is being developed by DCT Abu Dhabi in partnership with Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, and Tokyo-based international art collective teamLab. Visitors and residents will be able to access the unique experience, based on the ‘environmental phenomena’ concept designed by teamLab, after construction has completed in 2024.

teamLab Phenomena is located in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District, which is the home of Louvre Abu Dhabi, Berklee Abu Dhabi and Manarat Al Saadiyat. It is also site of several key cultural projects that are currently being developed, including Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and

the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi. His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The UAE’s longstanding ties with Japan span several generations over half a century. Now, this partnership will allow us to inspire a new generation, heralding a new era of knowledge exchange and collaboration. This will present new opportunities to engage youth and unlock the potential of the younger generations. I look forward to working together to fuel curiosity, ignite imagination, and spark the ideas of the future.”

Takayuki Ueda, President and CEO of Inpex: “We are delighted to be sponsoring teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi as part of our educational, cultural, and environmental activities supporting the core energy business of our subsidiary Japan Oil Development, Co., Ltd., which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.”

As part of the MoU, JODCO has agreed to sponsor teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, contributing to the enrichment of the UAE’s cultural landscape, and will pursue the execution of an official sponsorship agreement following discussions on specific terms. After the opening of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, the company intends to invite Emirati youth to the art space to contribute to the development of their curiosity and imagination.

Breaking Travel News spotlight on: Dubai

Hotspot drives tourism recovery in Middle East

New figures from officials in Dubai have revealed the emirate received 14.4 million international overnight visitors in 2022, growing 97 per cent year-on-year from the 7.3 million tourist arrivals in 2021. That is according to the latest data published by the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET).

The growth, which enabled the emirate to surpass global and regional tourism recovery levels, contributes to the goal of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 launched by sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, crown prince of Dubai, said: “The ability of Dubai to rapidly accelerate tourism growth, which has marked it out as a clear frontrunner in the international industry, demonstrates the farreaching vision of sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to transform the emirate into an important global player in shaping the future of vital sectors.”

The latest data from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) reveal

that global tourist travel in 2022 was 37 per cent lower than 2019. The Middle East saw the strongest relative increase, with arrivals climbing to 83 per cent of pre-pandemic numbers. Dubai exceeded both global and regional barometers of recovery with visitors to the city in 2022 reaching 86 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.

The strong performance in 2022 features some noteworthy spikes in the traditional key markets and strong growth across emerging markets. Dubai remained a first-choice safe

travel destination for visitors from stronghold markets.

From a regional perspective, western Europe and GCC regions each accounted for a 21 per cent share of arrivals. The GCC region in particular saw an exponential increase in their share of arrivalsfrom 13 per cent in 2021 to 21 per cent last year. South Asia contributed 17 per cent of total volumes, while the MENA region contributed 12 per cent, further reinforcing the continued appeal to travellers from proximity markets. Average occupancy for the hotel sector in 2022 stood at 73 per cent, one of the highest in the world, rising from 67 per cent in 2021. The figure is just short of the 75 per cent occupancy in the pre-pandemic period of 2019. The high occupancy is particularly noteworthy as it was achieved despite a 16 per cent increase in room supply in 2022 compared to 2019. Hotel inventory in Dubai at the end of December

2022 comprised of 146,496 rooms at 804 hotel establishments, compared to 126,120 rooms available at the end of December 2019 across 741 establishments.

The total number of hotels in 2022 marked a six per cent growth over 2021, with 755 hotel establishments offering 137,950 rooms, figures that highlight the continued strong investor confidence in Dubai’s tourism sector.

One of the driving factors behind the success of Dubai in 2022 can be attributed to captivating global campaigns conducted in collaboration with regional and international celebrities, opinion leaders, influencers and community personalities that highlighted the unique appeal of the city and brought to life the myriad experiences it offers.

One such campaign is Dubai Presents, which takes a novel

approach to global destination marketing, using a highly stylised movie approach to create engaging content. Shot against the backdrop of some of the most iconic landmarks and unique hidden locations, these short films feature Hollywood stars like Jessica Alba and Zac Efron. The ‘Where the World Celebrates’ global campaign that coincided with the FIFA World Cup in Qatar featured French football star Karim Benzema.

More Information

Dubai was voted ‘World's Leading Business Travel Destination’ by the World Travel Awards in 2022.

Find out more about visiting on the official website at www.visitdubai.com – or head over to Hall 2.2/100 here at ITB Berlin 2023.

Discover the incredible Yas Plaza Hotels

SIX WORLD-CLASS HOTELS IN ONE PLACE IN THE HEART OF YAS ISLAND

Yas Plaza Hotels are located at the heart of Yas Island, moments from Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Beach, Yas Links Golf Club, Etihad Arena, and the UAE’s biggest global attractions and theme parks: Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Water World theme parks, as well as CLYMB Abu Dhabi, the region’s leading adventure hub.

With 1,760 Room keys, direct Cyan beach access, 21 Award-winning restaurants and bars and 25 Meetings and events facilities, Yas Plaza Hotels offer a world of possibilities with every stay. Likewise, designated pet friendly rooms and zones are provided throughout the hotels.

Radisson Blu Hotel

Yas Island

The Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island features 397 rooms for business or leisure travelers, complete with free Wi-Fi and inroom coffee and tea facilities.

The hotel has a host of dining and nightlife venues offering diverse culinary options and entertainment. Feast on delicious Italian food and stylish cocktails over views of the Abu Dhabi sunset at Filini Garden. Enjoy authentic Belgian cuisine and craft beverages at the Belgian Beer Cafe. For a broader selection of dishes from around the globe, visit Assymetri, which also serves our Super Breakfast buffet each morning. Cool off from the Arabian sun with a cold beverage by the pool and some light snacks at Shams Pool Bar.

Other on-site amenities such as the spa, fitness centre, and kids’ play area offer relaxing diversions when guests are not at the beach or exploring Yas Island.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE Bookings: + 971 2 656 2000

Crowne Plaza

Yas Island

At the Crowne Plaza Yas Island, you can drop your worries at the entrance to the inviting lobby lounge, and relax at the nearby Yas Beach. Leisure travellers and families have Yas Island’s attractions at their feet, from Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld, CLYMB to the shoppers’ paradise, Yas Mall, as well as Etihad Arena. However, with the 25-meter outdoor pool, fitness centre, Kids Club, and five popular dining outlets you’ll never want to leave.

Successful meetings – directed by Crowne Meetings Directors in one of 9 state-of-the-art rooms – can be followed by 18 holes of golf, team building and a spectacular reception on our terrace overlooking Abu Dhabi. Wi-Fi is complimentary and the business center is open 24hours.

Crowne Plaza Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Bookings: + 971 2 656 3000 / 3055

Yas Island

Rotana

Yas Island Rotana is conveniently located on spectacular Yas Island, a breath-taking sports and entertainment destination. The 308 spacious rooms and suites exude cosmopolitan flair and are meticulously designed to suit guests seeking privacy, a personalized service and unparalleled quality. Enjoy added benefits and privileges at our hotel-within-a-hotel concept, Club Rotana, with exclusive lounge access part of the service.

For an unforgettable dining experience, the restaurants Choices, fine-dining steakhouse Blue Grill and Indian venue Rangoli will not disappoint, while casual dining options include the Aquarius pool bar, Island Café, and Y bar. Fine nine fully-equipped and flexible meeting rooms, as well as a spacious ballroom with sophisticated décor. From spa and gym facilities to a kids’ club, outdoor pool and kids pool, guests of all ages can enjoy this modern facility designed to promote your wellbeing.

Yas Island Rotana, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Bookings: + 971 2 656 4000 / 4155

Park Inn

Yas Island

The modern hotel in Abu Dhabi offers 204 newly renovated rooms and suites with beautiful panoramic views of the lush Yas Links Golf Course and the pristine blue waters of the Arabian Gulf. The rooms feature sleek and modern décor, plush mattresses, Chromecast, 43inch smart TVs, free Wi-Fi, and state-of-the-art headboards with color-changing LED mood lights.

A host of culinary options await, including Mexican, Italian, and Belgian cuisine. Keep up your fitness routine with the outdoor swimming pools and health club, which includes a fully equipped gym, spa, and a children’s play area. The hotel features two naturally lit conference rooms with free Wi-Fi and modern audio-visual equipment, with space for 30 conference attendees.

Park Inn by Radisson Blu, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Bookings: + 971 2 656 2000

Staybridge Suites

Yas Island

Comfort and convenience for extended stays in the Emirates’ playground. More home than hotel, Staybridge Suites® Abu Dhabi Yas Island has all you need for independent living, Yas Island-style.

Business travellers on long stays in Abu Dhabi appreciate the home comforts of our spacious, apartment-style suites. It has complete kitchen amenities and fully furnished living area where you can cook, work, and entertain friends in style. A tasty complimentary breakfast sets you up for the day and free buffet dinners four nights a week help you unwind. When work is over, you can soak up the Yas Island lifestyle in the 25-metre outdoor pool and socialize over coffee in the Hub Kitchen. Pop next door to Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island hotel for award-winning restaurants and bars, a state-of-the-art Fitness Center and a Kids Club.

Staybridge Suites, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Bookings: + 971 2 656 3000 / 3066

Centro Yas Island

Centro Yas Island enjoys an idyllic location that is beautiful and fun in equal measures. Defined by a youthful and fresh vibe, Centro Yas Island, is a contemporary hotel with an innovative presentation and an exceptional range of services. This 259-room hotel is designed to meet the requirements of a new generation of traveller, seeking finesse and functionality at reasonable rates. Advanced business facilities and high-speed Wi-Fi Internet access come as standard in every room. Providing unique living spaces in a modern setting, Centro Yas Island offers amenities specifically tailored to the needs of the travelling executive.

These include a restaurant serving three-course meals, bar, 24-hour shop, business centre, a meeting room, in addition to a shuttle bus with multiple trips per day to the main attractions on Yas Island and free valet parking. The outdoor pool, as well as the fully equipped 24hour gym, offer guests the best of recreation during their stay.

Yas Island Rotana, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Bookings: + 971 2 656 4000 / 4155

New Abrahamic Family House opens on Saadiyat Island

His Highness Lt. Gen Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and His Highness Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, have inaugurated the Abrahamic Family House, a new centre for learning, dialogue and the practice of faith located in Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi.

Encompassing three separate houses of worship – a mosque, church, and synagogue – as well as shared spaces for gathering and dialogue, the centre is now open for visitors.

Rooted in the UAE’s values of bringing people and cultures together, the Abrahamic Family House embodies the diversity of Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE, home to vibrant multicultural communities of various faiths. The project was inspired by the principles in the Document on Human Fraternity, signed by His Holiness Pope Francis and His Eminence Grand Imam Dr Ahmed El-Tayeb in Abu Dhabi in 2019.

His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, President of the Abrahamic Family House, said: “The Abrahamic Family House is symbolic of the UAE’s longstanding values of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence –values embodied by our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed. We hope that the Abrahamic Family House will inspire youth everywhere, as we highlight our common humanity and work towards the creation of a more peaceful world for generations to come.”

A new centre for learning, dialogue and faith has opened on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.

At the Abrahamic Family House visitors are invited to participate in religious services, guided tours, celebrations, and opportunities to explore faith. Each of the dedicated houses of worship, the Eminence Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque, His Holiness Francis Church, and Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue, has space for observers, and daily guided tours will show visitors features of the design pertinent to the practices and traditions of each faith.

His Eminence Professor Mohammed Al Mahrasawi, Co-Chair of Higher Committee for Human Fraternity, and former President of Al-Azhar University, said: “The Abrahamic Family House is a true reflection of the provisions of the Document on Human Fraternity,

which calls for ensuring peaceful coexistence. It is a testament to the vision of the United Arab Emirates and its leaders towards promoting interfaith dialogue and peace among all. The Abrahamic Family House is a model of coexistence, reconciliation, and mutual respect for the sake of mankind.”

Cardinal Miguel Ángel Ayuso Guixot, President of The Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue of The Holy See, said: “The Abrahamic Family House is a concrete example for people of different religions, cultures, traditions, and beliefs to return to the essential: love of neighbour. This will be a place which promotes dialogue and mutual respect, and acts in the service of human fraternity as we

walk the paths of peace together.”

Sir Ephraim Mirvis, Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth, said: “On this historic day, we have gathered to celebrate this remarkable monument to loving kindness - the Abrahamic Family House. From today onwards, let us use this extraordinary sacred site to promote harmony and peace. In a world in which differences can separate us, let us say here that our shared values shall exist for the sake of our universal aspirations.”

The complex’s central forum functions as a visitor experience centre, where an immersive exhibition will introduce visitors to the Abrahamic Family House and

invite reflection on the three faiths. The space will host discussions, forums, and conferences that promote understanding, dialogue and peaceful coexistence. The shared garden is another space for gathering, learning and conversation for members of diverse faith communities and visitors of all beliefs.

The three houses of worship are of equal stature and share external dimensions, and have been designed by Sir David Adjaye, of Adjaye Associates, to respect the architectural codes and individualism of each faith. Each takes the form of a cube that is 30m deep, 30m wide and 30m tall.

The mosque, church and synagogue

will provide faith communities with an environment of profound beauty and tranquility in which to participate in religious services, listen to recitals of holy scripture and prayers, and experience sacred rituals. The Abrahamic Family House will also offer a dynamic series of educational and faithbased programmes and events, as well as initiatives for young people, that promote the exchange of knowledge and interfaith collaboration.

From today onwards, let us use this extraordinary sacred site to promote harmony and peace

Sir Ephraim Mirvis, Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth

Discover London, its history, architecture, shopping, museums, nightlife, luxurious hotels and spas, wonderful restaurants and of course its people. Let Discover London take you on daily tour to understand and learn more about the sights, sounds and the culture of one of the greatest cities in the world.

London is one of the most visited cities and is a diverse cultural hub — responding to this, Discover London brings you the news in eight languages. Whether it serves tourists or Londoners themselves, there will be a language for almost everyone. Check our ‘About’ section to discover more about this beautiful city.

Breaking Travel News spotlight on: Saudi Arabia

New stopover visa marks latest move to open tourism sector

Officials at the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) have unveiled plans to launch a new stopover visa. The free-of-charge option is open to a wider number of countries than the tourism eVisa and is the latest move to make the destination more accessible. The visa will allow passengers to stay in the country for up to 96 hours, enabling more visitors than ever to explore historical, cultural and spiritual sites.

Travellers will also be able to use the stopover visa to perform the spiritual Umrah ritual. Spiritual travellers can book flights through local carriers Saudia and flynas, but must also register for Umrah through the Nusuk platform.

Even more exciting for visitors, stopover visa holders will be eligible for a complimentary onenight hotel stay during the stopover when booking through Saudia.

To help visitors make the most of their stopover, custom 24, 48, 72 and 96-hour itineraries have been developed to inspire visitors to stroll through Al-Balad in Jeddah, or visit the Al-Turaif district in Diriyah, one of the six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Saudi Arabia. Visitors can also use the stopover visa to break up longhaul flights or book a bonus trip to experience the burgeoning

entertainment and seasonal events calendar or even extend a business trip on the way to their final destination.

The stopover visa application will be automatically available through the airline booking platforms for all passengers travelling to their final destination on Saudia or flynas airlines. A stopover can be made through any airport in Saudi. For many, the application process can be completed in under three minutes and can be applied for up to three months before travel.

The stopover visa provides yet another flexible option for visitors to experience the authentic home of Arabia and will contribute to a vision of reaching 100 million visits annually by 2030.

Ahmed Al Khateeb, minister of tourism for Saudi Arabia, said: “The new stopover visa is yet another proof point in our commitment to developing and encouraging growth in the tourism sector. We will continue to work together across government and across the tourism ecosystem as Saudi transforms into a leading global tourism destination.”

The new stopover visa is yet another proof point in our commitment to developing and encouraging growth in the tourism sector.

Ahmed Al Khateeb, minister of tourism

Indian Premier League

At the same time, STA has commenced an official partnership with the preeminent Twenty 20 cricket league, the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL). An event to inaugurate the partnership was held in Mumbai, attended by secretary of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Jay Shah, Rajeev Shukla, vice president of the BCCI, and honorary treasurer of the BCCI, Ashish Shelar, along with representatives from the STA, including Alhasan Aldabbagh, president of APAC.

Cricket is one of the most popular sports around the world. Through this partnership, STA aims to tap into a strong fanbase between the two countries, encourage affinity and increase awareness of Saudi as a leading destination for Indian travellers, especially among young people.

With more than half of its population below the age of 30, India shares a similar demographic profile with Saudi Arabia, where 58 per cent of the local population is in the same age group.

IPL is one of the biggest events on the international sporting calendar and the partnership adds to a growing portfolio of global strategic relationships. Partnerships like IPL are a key pillar of the local tourism strategy as they bring fans, athletes and nations together, while sparking curiosity from those that may want to be among the first to visit Saudi as a destination.

Fahd Hamidaddin, chief executive of the Saudi Tourism Authority, said, “India and Saudi share a vibrant youth culture and sport is an ideal platform to engage and inspire young people. Saudi is committed to supporting excellence in the world of sport and inspiring greater participation and improved quality of life among Saudi and global audiences alike.”

More Information

Find out more about visiting Saudi Arabia on the official website at www.visitsaudi.com or head over to Hall 3.2/203

TEN REASONS TO VISIT BATUMI

WITH THE RETURN OF INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL, THE GEORGIAN CITY OF BATUMI IS RAPIDLY ESTABLISHING ITSELF AS ONE OF EUROPE’S MOST EXCITING DESTINATIONS.

Batumi enjoys a delightful setting on the shores of the Black Sea, with a backdrop of the soaring snow-capped Adjara Mountains.

The capital of the autonomous Adjara region is home to a delightful belle époque old town, which has been restored to its original glory. It also offers a scintillating mix of old and new thanks to a construction boom that is transforming its skyline, with new hotels and glistening towers.

TEN REASONS TO VISIT BATUMI

1 ENDLESS SUMMER

Famed for its summer season, Batumi is a fascinating destination in spring and autumn. Visitors can sunbathe or swim from May, whilst sea temperatures are still ideal for bathing into October due to the long Indian summers. As well as the sea, visitors can also trek to the amazing mountains of Adjara, which soar up to 2,500 m above sea level.

TEN REASONS TO VISIT BATUMI

2 OLD MEETS NEW

Batumi is one of the oldest cities in Georgia, and the initial settlement “Batus” dates back to the 4th century BC. The city’s unique history has contributed to its vast architectural diversity. In the 19th century, during the “Porto Franco” period, European architects completed a number of interesting architectural projects.

During the Soviet era, Batumi was developed into a popular seaport and tourist destination.

3 ADJARIAN CUISINE & WINE

Georgian cuisine offers an amazing array of cooking techniques. In mountainous Adjara, dairy products are common ingredients in many dishes. Boat-shaped Adjarian khachapuri is one of the most famous Adjarian dishes. Sweets also play an important role in Adjarian cuisine. Viticulture is an essential component of Georgian culture, with around 50 different grape species in Adjara that are still used in wine production to this very day.

TEN REASONS TO VISIT BATUMI

4 BEAUTIFUL BOTANICAL GARDENS

For the scent of plants and flowers in an incredible coastal setting head to Batumi Botanical Garden. The garden features a thousand species of astonishingly beautiful and unique flowers. The plants derive from completely different climatic and landscape zones yet grow together in harmony. For example, the garden has Canary Palms growing side by side with Japanese Sakuras.

TEN REASONS TO VISIT BATUMI

5 GEORGIAN HOSPITALITY

Exceptional hospitality and the goodwill of the Georgian people is the hallmark of every trip to Batumi. As a guest in Georgia, you will not only experience unparalleled hospitality, but will also be enchanted by the genuine kindness of the Georgian people.

TEN REASONS TO VISIT BATUMI

6 WANDER AROUND THE OLD TOWN

The Old Town in Batumi is a charming place to wander around. Many of its building date back to the 19th century when Batumi was an important port along the route from Europe to the Caspian Sea. Now the Batumi Old Town was recently restored and can enchant you easily.

TEN REASONS TO VISIT BATUMI

7 THE BOULEVARD

The construction of Batumi Boulevard was started in 1881 by a Prussian gardener and landscape architect and later completed by a French architect. Today the boulevard is one of the world’s longest, stretching for eight kilometres long and is distinguished by its broad walking and bicycle paths, magnolia and palm trees, fountains, café-lounges and children’s attractions.

TEN REASONS TO VISIT BATUMI

8 MIX THE MOUNTAINS AND SEA

The combination of seaside and mountains makes Batumi an ideal year-round tourist destination. The mountain resorts have excellent conditions all four seasons and are also ideal for romantic weekend getaways. In addition, the protected areas in Adjara and the region’s other natural treasures offer unforgettable experiences for ecotourism.

9 GEORGIAN CULTURE

Georgia is one of the oldest Christian countries in the world, leading to a significant influence on Georgian culture. Gonio, one of the oldest settlements in Georgia, is located in Adjara. The region is famous for its stone-arch bridges, religious monuments and monasteries. Gelati and Bagrati, recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites, are located just a few hours’ drive from Batumi. Tbilisi, Mtskheta and other parts of Georgia are also very rich in unique and diverse cultural monuments.

TEN REASONS TO VISIT BATUMI

TEN REASONS TO VISIT BATUMI

10 A GEORGIAN FEAST

The backbone of Georgian social culture, the Supra is a traditional feast. The “Tamada” or toastmaster leads the Supra, and is considered to be the most honourable member of a traditional Georgian Supra, and entertain guests with poems, songs and interesting stories. New courses of food are always served to the guests first, and toasts are made each time, with guests expected to empty their glass with each toast.

Breaking Travel News spotlight on Vietnam

Reopening of key Chinese market will drive Vietnam tourism boom in 2023

Tourism is set to rebound significantly in Vietnam this year, with the key Chinese outbound market reopening. The country saw a strong domestic travel rebound in 2022, with the trend now expected to extend to the international sphere.

Authorities at the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) expected to see a 50-80 per cent recovery in Chinese arrivals this year.

Following the reopening following

Covid-19 last March, domestic tourism has been roaring, with Vietnam easily surpassing its 2022 target of 60 million - recording over 100 million tourists last year. At the same time, Vietnam welcomed 3.6 million international tourists in 2022, mainly driven by travellers from South Korea (26 per cent) and the United States (nine per cent).

However, the rebound of international tourism was only partial, with tourist arrivals only 20 per cent of the level seen in 2019.

Prior to the pandemic, tourism accounted for roughly ten per cent of GDP in Vietnam.

For 2023, the government is targeting 102 million domestic tourists and eight million international visitors, with tourism receipts expected to rise more than 30 per cent, albeit to levels still lower than seen 2019.

The good news is that mainland China, the largest visitor base for Vietnam prior to the pandemic, has

also recently begun its reopening process, adding further tailwinds to the burgeoning tourism sector. While the recovery process may be gradual, the impact on tourism will be sizeable on many metrics. For instance, Chinese tourists have on average historically spent more and stayed longer than most Asian peers, though lagging behind European and American peers.

Given the proportion of Chinese tourists (30 per cent of the market in 2019), Vietnam will likely be

another main regional beneficiary, alongside after Thailand, to receive a boost from the return of Chinese tourists.

If flight constraints can be solved and visa entry requirements can be eased further, authorities believe some 4.5 million Chinese guests could arrive this year.

For 2023, the government is targeting 102 million domestic tourists and eight million international visitors

Savour Vietnam with SAIGONTOURIST GROUP

With a long history of 48 years of establishment and development, Saigontourist Group is proud to be the leading hospitality group in Vietnam. The Group currently manages more than 100 hotels, resorts, restaurants, travel agencies, amusement parks, hospitality college, exhibition and convention center, golf course, cable television…

SAIGONTOURIST GROUP

Culinary Culture

Cuisine is one of Saigontourist Group's strong service areas and the Group manages more than 70 restaurants belonging to hotels, resorts, tourist areas and a number of independent restaurants and F&B centers. The restaurant specializes in introducing a wide range of cuisines, events, weddings, conferences... with a variety of Asian, European and Vietnamese culinary styles. In particular, Saigontourist Group has experience in organizing large-scale culinary and cultural events such as the "Saigontourist Group Culinary Culture, Delicacies Festival 2022". The event was voted by the World Culinary Awards as "Asia's Best Culinary Festival 2022".

Visit

Sun Group forges partnership with Forrec

As Vietnam continues to grow as a tourism destination, Forrec has announced a long-term strategic partnership that will see the design firm create new experiences in the market for tourism developers Sun Group.

Established in 2007, Sun Group was founded in Vietnam as a local business enterprise, going on to become one of the leading developers across the entertainment, hospitality, infrastructure and real estate sectors in the country.

Among its properties, the company owns and operates a number of leading theme parks and entertainment complexes, including Sun World Ba Na Hills, Asia Park, Sun World Fansipan Legend, Sun World Ha Long, Sun World Phu Quoc, Sun World Ba Den Mountain and Sun World Cat Ba.

The new partnership will bring together “a shared love for design and entertainment; industry leadership; deep skills in strategy and design; and extensive understanding in building transformational experiences”.

Through the agreement, Forrec will provide Sun Group with executive-level support and a dedicated team to provide local coordination and project design, as well as thought leadership and industry knowledge.

In turn, Sun Group has designated Forrec as ‘firstpriority’ international design consultant in Vietnam for all experience and entertainment-focused projects.

More Information

Sun Group is considered Asia’s Leading Integrated Tourism Group by voters at the World Travel Awards – while Vietnam took the titles of World's Leading Heritage Destination and World's Leading Nature Island Destination in 2022.

a shared love for design and entertainment

SUN WORLD BA NA HILLS

Breaking Travel News spotlight on QATAR

Following the successful hosting of FIFA World Cup 2022, Qatar looks to build on the momentum to cement its place on THE global tourism map

Qatar Tourism has launched it’s a new campaign - ‘Feel More in Qatar’ - which aims to highlight its position as a premium destination and top spot in the Middle East for the well-travelled tourist.

Whether it’s a family looking to reconnect, or a couple longing for a vacation, ‘Feel More in Qatar’ seeks to bring to life the country’s rich emotional tapestry. Be it the famously warm traditional Qatari hospitality, the serenity of the country’s natural wonders or the aweinspiring architecture, the campaign showcases that a visit to Qatar genuinely stirs the senses for every member of a family, regardless of age.

Overall, the campaign demonstrates that Qatar offers families, couples and friends, not just a collection of things to do, but a superior emotional experience. Families can ‘feel more together,’ couples can ‘feel more connected’ and friends can ‘feel more fun’.

The year-round sunshine, adventurous activities, romantic experiences,

cultural offerings, and much more, makes Qatar the perfect destination for families, couples and friends. The ‘Feel More in Qatar’ campaign forms part of the country’s longterm strategy to welcome six million visitors by 2030.

Commenting on the new campaign, chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group, Akbar Al Baker, said: “With its rich and fascinating heritage, natural beauty, and range of experiences to choose from, a visit to Qatar

inspires positive emotional responses for all. Be it a couple on a short romantic getaway, or a family looking to spend quality time together, the country caters to all wants, needs and preferences, offering an array of truly authentic experiences that are genuinely unforgettable.”

The global campaign will operate in over 17 markets across the world, including Australia, the UK and Turkey. Taking a 360-approach, the campaign will be featured

on TV, social media channels, digital channels, press channels, out-of-homes and have a dedicated website.

Cruise Sector

Qatar Tourism and Mwani Qatar also recently confirmed the return of the 2023 cruise season and forecast more than 50 cruise liners with approximately 200,000 visitors will arrive before the end of April 2023. Over the season, cruise liner passengers will be welcomed at the Cruise

Terminal, a newly designed infrastructure that pays homage to classic Arabian architecture. Docking in Doha Port, passengers will witness the newly renovated port that recently stood home to major international cruise liners.

Located at the port is the Mina District, one of the latest tourism destinations in the country, whereby residents and visitors alike can enjoy a diverse offering of restaurants and retail outlets or a refreshing stroll by the sea. For international passengers, the port is ideally situated within walking distance to iconic landmarks, including the National Museum of Qatar, Souq Waqif, Msheireb Downtown Doha and the Doha Corniche, where visitors can take in stunning views of the skyline.

Commenting on the new cruise season, Maryam Saoud, head of tourism

product support at Qatar Tourism, said: “Qatar’s cruise sector has a history of less than a decade, yet the sector has grown tremendously and now contributes an important pillar to our tourism strategy. We’re seeing continued, increasing preference for Qatar as a destination for both regular cruise calls and cruises with turnaround calls.”

He added: “Indeed, Doha Port’s strategic location in the heart of the city is truly unique and offers our visitors an excellent opportunity to make the most out of their time in Doha. We are ready to welcome thousands of new travellers who are guaranteed a distinct tourism experience in Qatar through the different tourism products on offer and in collaboration with our strategic partners.”

More Information

Find out more about visiting Qatar on the official tourism website at www.qatartourism.com or head over to Hall 2.2/207 here at ITB Berlin.

Qatar was recognised for the World's Leading Marketing Campaign by voters at the World Travel Awards in 2022.

With its rich and fascinating heritage, natural beauty, and range of experiences to choose from, a visit to Qatar inspires positive emotional responses for all

DAVID BECKHAM EXPLORES QATAR

On the heels of a strong recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic fallout, the 2023 Jamaica tourism forecast shows that the destination is on track to achieve 11 per cent growth. Gross foreign exchange earnings for the 2023 calendar year are also forecasted to reach US$4.12 billion, an estimated 13.3 per cent increase on 2022 earnings.

“Jamaica’s tourism is back, and our recovery continues to outpace our earlier projections. We are now in growth mode and to achieve this in double digits for this year is huge. It will mean more jobs and more earnings for workers and the island’s economy. Tourism is Jamaica’s lifeblood and driver of economic growth and the industry’s growth means the country’s growth,” said Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica minister of tourism.

The projected growth is based on Jamaica’s primary markets registering growth over the previous period, with Canada strengthening its position to deliver 39 per cent growth, the United States showing steady growth of seven per cent, and UK/Europe primarily demonstrating growth of 5.3 per cent through the eastern European markets.

“We could not achieve these successes without our partners. Our airline partners, tour operators, travel agents and so many more have contributed to the destination remaining top of mind and accelerating our recovery. The Jamaica Tourist Board’s focus on an integrated sales and marketing strategy, which is embedded in the pervasive use of new technologies along with a focus on new and emerging markets, has allowed the destination to leapfrog its own projections for growth,” said Donovan White, director of tourism with the Jamaica Tourist Board.

Last year, Jamaica welcomed 3.3 million visitors and registered a remarkable recovery of earnings compared to pre-Covid earnings of 2019, with total estimated revenue of US$3.63 billion. As the destination recovery has outpaced earlier projections, there is a high possibility that full recovery could be realized a year earlier than predicted.

Tourism is Jamaica’s lifeblood and driver of economic growth and the industry’s growth means the country’s growth

Spirit in the Sky

Continuing to expand ease of access to the island for US travellers, Jamaica has welcomed new air service from Connecticut’s Bradley International Airport (BDL) in Hartford to Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay from by Spirit Airlines.

The route is the first ever non-stop flight from Connecticut to Jamaica, making the arrival truly a historic one.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome a flight by Spirit from Connecticut to Jamaica, providing us with further reach into the key north-eastern United States,” said minister Bartlett.

“The expansion of our partnership with Spirit Airlines is a welcome addition to our airlift arrangements as we continue our drive to further boost the flow of visitors to Jamaica through the addition of new gateways and greater seat support.”

Upon landing in Montego Bay, the arriving flight received a high-spraying water cannon salute on the runway to mark the occasion. Disembarking passengers were greeted by officials from the Jamaica Tourist Board and the airport. In keeping with tradition, gifts were presented to the pilots and crew of the flight in appreciation of their service. Live music from a Jamaican mento band capped off the festive atmosphere.

Connecticut is home to one of the largest Jamaican communities in the world, with the fifth largest population of residents having Jamaican ancestry among all United States.

In addition to the new flight from Bradley International Airport now operating four times weekly year-round, Spirit also operates non-stop flights to Jamaica from Baltimore, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando.

“This new non-stop service provides yet another convenient option for visitors to get to our beautiful island,” White. “It is wonderful to see so many people on board the very first flight, indicating strong demand for Jamaica from the Connecticut area.”

More Information

For more information about Jamaica visit www.visitjamaica.com - or head over to Hall 22/103B here at ITB Berlin 2023.

Jamaica was honoured with the titles of World’s Leading Family Destination and World’s Leading Wedding Destination by voters at the World Travel Awards in 2022.

we continue our drive to further boost the flow of visitors to Jamaica through the addition of new gateways and greater seat support

Four Seasons and Red Sea Global to open new Saudi Arabia resort

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Red Sea Global (RSG) are introducing a new Four Seasons Resort as part of The Red Sea masterplan development.

Soon to be one of the region’s foremost luxury beachside destinations, The Red Sea will comprise of the idyllic natural islands and lagoons across 200 kilometres (124 miles) of coastline along the western coast of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, between the cities of Umluj and Al Wajh. The new Four Seasons Resort, designed by Foster + Partners, will be located on Shura Island, the hub of the development and also home to a yacht marina, leisure and lifestyle facilities, retail offerings, 18-hole golf course and more.

“As we continue to expand Four Seasons presence in the region, our new project in the Red Sea will be one of our first resorts in the Kingdom, blending the best of beachside travel with the natural and cultural wonders of Saudi Arabia,” says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business

Development and Portfolio Management. “We are incredibly proud to be part of this impressive and visionary development by RSG and look forward to inviting guests to explore our new Resort within such a beautiful and storied destination.”

The Red Sea destination is being built with sustainable practices and tourism at its core, with the masterplan being informed by an impressive marine spatial planning simulation to model the environmental impact of development and operations to minimise over-tourism while providing guests with an exceptional travel and lifestyle experience. The destination will also rely on renewable energy and will only develop a small portion of the islands with expansive dedicated conservation zones.

“This new destination provides the next generation of travellers with an incredible opportunity to discover what Saudi Arabia has to offer, building on its historic and cultural significance, while highlighting the exceptional natural beauty of the region,” says John Pagano, Group CEO, Red Sea Global. “We are thrilled to have Four Seasons as a partner on this project, bringing their world-renowned service expertise to the beautiful Red Sea.”

This latest project in The Red Sea will join Four Seasons growing collection of properties in the Kingdom, including Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, and upcoming projects in Diriyah and Jeddah at the Corniche.

For more information visit fourseasons.com or head over to Hall 22/103c

Superbly connected to Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 4 via a covered walkway, Hilton London Heathrow Airport offers excellent links to the capital and convenient air connections to the UK, Europe and beyond.

NEW FRESH LOOK

Following its recent refurbishment in 2021, the hotel launched a new restaurant concept, OXBO, which will have three different outlets at the hotel: OXBO Café, OXBO Bar and OXBO Kitchen, each with different food and drink menus available day and night. The new food outlets have been designed to cater for a wide variety of needs, from food on the go, to informal sharing plates, to hearty, traditional favourites, with the emphasis on responsibly sourced ingredients.

The hotel has also extended its options for conference and events. In addition to its existing 15 meeting rooms – which can cater for up to 300 people – the hotel has also created the new Concorde Exhibition space, which has floor to ceiling windows and can comfortably accommodate up 170 people.

Whether staying for business or leisure, Hilton Heathrow Airport Terminal 4 is the perfect location for a great stay.

KEY FEAUTURES

Located just a six-minute walk via covered walkway to Terminal 4.

Award-winning hotel with personalised service and great recognition of regular guests.

Park & fly packages available with fully flexible rates.

Leaders of sustainability initiatives

The new restaurant concept, OXBO has been created under the ethos “bound by nature”, with the emphasis on responsibly sourced ingredients

The ultimate beach side and lush nature destination in Nosy Be

DISCOVER Andilana Beach Resort

On the north-western coast of Madagascar, Andilana Beach Resort lies on two beaches of white sand and is the largest hotel and tourist complex of Madagascar. With 340 days of sun per year and a constant temperature between 26 and 34°C, it most certainly deserves its reputation as a corner of paradise.

Nestled in the heart of a lush tropical garden, Andilana Beach Resort offers its guests an exceptional setting for a dream holiday - ideal for couples and families alike –that successfully offers both

privacy and opportunities for social interaction.

The resort offers 6 suites and 204 rooms that give this resort the right size to make the most of a holiday, to enjoy the three restaurants, the two bars and all the high quality services that over 500 staffs will be happy to deliver with a welcoming smile.

Andilana Beach Resort is undoubtedly the destination of choice. The colours of the sea that surrounds it, the peaceful atmosphere of its beaches and its stunning sunsets combine

to make it the ideal place for all types of holidays. It is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy a break that’s all about sun, sea and relaxation and it is an excellent starting and ending point for your excursions.

Andilana was voted ‘World’s Leading Beach Resort 2022’ by voters of World Travel Awards.

Golden era for rebranded Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Emirates Palace Hotel has rebranded as Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, signalling a new golden era as part of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group portfolio.

This exciting chapter will celebrate and build upon the hotel’s distinctive legacy while introducing unparalleled experiences for guests, further cementing its position as world’s most iconic beachfront resort.

To commemorate this milestone, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the hotel. H.E. Mohammed Al Junaibi, Chairman of Emirates Palace Company (‘EPCO’), H.E. Sultan Al Hemeiri, Managing Director of EPCO, and other senior EPCO officials were welcomed by James Riley, Group Chief Executive, and Joanna Flint, Chief Commercial Officer of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. During the ceremony, they unveiled the hotel’s signature fan, which was designed by Abu Dhabi-born multidisciplinary artist Ahmad Saeed Al Areef Al Dhaheri and inspired by the UAE’s treasured tradition of pearl diving.

Commenting on the occasion, H.E. Mohammed Al Junaibi said: “We are thrilled as Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi enters a new golden era of hospitality. Guided by the legacy and expertise of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, the resort is set to become an icon of global luxury in line with our leadership’s quest to extend world-class hospitality to anyone visiting or living in the UAE.”

Commenting on the rebranding, James Riley stated, “Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi marks a milestone for our brand and confirms our commitment to the region. The palace is a globally recognised landmark in the UAE and we are delighted to manage a property with such rich historical and cultural relevance.”

The beachfront palace boasts renovated rooms, innovative dining experiences, and brand-new spa and sports facilities, each elevated by Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service. The reimagined accommodation will include the region’s very first vegan rooms with compassionate design, sustainable bedding, plant based in-room dining options and cruelty-free bath

amenities. The hotel’s new signature suites offer a haven of sophistication and style, complete with priority access to the resort’s facilities, whilst The EP Club comprises 660 square metres of elevated living, dining, and relaxing areas exclusively for members and suite guests.

Crown Your Love at the Palace by Chaumet represents a highlight of the resort’s grand wedding offering, providing a luxury addition for guests celebrating their special day within the grandiose palace grounds. Found at Emirates Palace will introduce an exclusive range of gifts, accessories, and resort wear, whilst guests can also discover unique crafts and contemporary art from local businesses and emerging artists with The Palace Pop-Up.

Amongst the enhanced dining options, the oneMichelin-starred Talea by Antonio Guida is a celebration of authentic Cucina di Famiglia, served in a vibrant atmosphere both indoors and outdoors. Elsewhere, the all-new culinary destination Episodes – comprising a tea apothecary, a deli, a cake shop and a gelateria –promises an exploratory journey into both contemporary and classic favourites.

In addition to the serene sanctuary offered by The Hideaway, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental will pioneer self-care practices by world-renowned practitioners and launch a new range of skincare products by Tata Harper and Oto. The new spa will also be home to an exclusive Acqua di Parma Barbiere services and retail products. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi looks forward to welcoming guests to experience a whole new era that builds on the exceptional, whilst pioneering a new echelon of Arabian hospitality.

For more information visit mandarinoriental.com/abudhabi

Mandarin Oriental opens new Mallorca resort

Scheduled to open during the second half of 2024.

The new luxury resort is being developed by Spanish based Blasson Property Investments and comprises a significant reconstruction and redesign of the former H10 Punta Negra hotel which occupies an iconic peninsula on the Costa d’en Blanes in the southwest of the island. Following the completion of the renovation, the hotel will be named Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca.

Surrounded by natural beauty, the resort spreads over 3 hectares of landscaped cliff tops and gardens cascading down to the sea, where it offers unique access to two coves surrounded by crystalline waters. The property is ideally located within Calvià, one of the most exclusive municipalities of the island, and close to key attractions such as the Portals port, the historical landmarks of the capital Palma de Mallorca, and the international airport.

Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca will feature 131 guestrooms, including 44 suites and nine bungalows located just a few steps from the waterfront. The spacious accommodation will provide full or partial sea views, outdoor terraces or balconies, some of which offer private panoramic plunge pools.

A wide range of cuisines will be offered at a variety of local and international restaurants, making it a destination for locals and visitors alike. Indoor and outdoor event spaces will provide a chic backdrop for meetings and social gatherings, including a garden ideal for wedding celebrations.

A comprehensive Spa at Mandarin Oriental will offer the Group’s signature wellness therapies and beauty treatments, with a focus on local nature-inspired programmes. The spa includes an indoor swimming pool, while three outdoor pools are located across the resort. Guests will also have access to a wide range of water-sports as well as a comprehensive Children’s Club.

James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group said, “We are delighted at this opportunity to bring Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service to this extraordinary beachfront resort in the Balearics, and we look forward to collaborating with Blasson Property Investments to develop a luxury hotel that will be designed and constructed with a strong

sustainability ethos. Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca will be a welcome complement to our hotels in Barcelona and Madrid and we are extremely pleased to be expanding Mandarin Oriental’s presence into another important leisure destination in Europe.”

As the largest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca enjoys a mild climate with warm summers and mild winters. The island is known for its pristine beaches, natural parks and mountainous landscape. In 2022, Mallorca played host to the World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony with the VIPs of the European travel industry in attendance.

Visit www.mandarinoriental.com to find out more.

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Rures lucide circumgrediet Aquae Sulis, semper matrimonii adquireret quinquennalis saburre. Gulosus fiducias amputat suis, ut tremulus saburre conubium santet suis. Chirographi vocificat umbraculi. Suis conubium santet Augustus. Concubine fortiter suffragarit

Norwegian Cruise Line celebrates first cruise season in South Africa and Namibia

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) celebrates a new milestone with the successful conclusion of its inaugural season sailing from Cape Town, South Africa.

Norwegian Jade became the first vessel in the line’s 18-ship fleet to homeport from the South African port, offering international and local guests 12-day Extraordinary Journeys along the coast of South Africa and Namibia with an overnight stay in Cape Town, South Africa and visits to Mossel Bay, Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) and Richard’s Bay, South Africa; and Luderitz and Walvis Bay, Namibia.

The international cruise line is building on its successful inaugural season in South Africa and has recently announced the deployment of Norwegian Dawn to the region in winter 2024. Homeporting from Cape Town, South Africa and Port Louis, Mauritius, the 2,340-passenger ship will offer a series of Extraordinary Journey voyages between January and March 2024.

Harry Sommer, Brand President and CEO at NCL, said, “As part of our Guest First philosophy we are focused on enhancing our destination offerings, providing our guests with more immersive itineraries that are designed to create memories of a lifetime. Our new Africa voyages

are a testament to that, combining bucket-list locations such as Cape Town and Mauritius with hidden gems like Pomene and Maputo in Mozambique or Fort Dauphin in Madagascar. With an average of almost 12 hours in each port, allowing more time to fully experience these unforgettable destinations, the new voyages are already amongst our fastest selling cruises for 2024 and are attracting guests from almost 60 countries worldwide.”

In January 2024, Norwegian Dawn will embark on her 17-day repositioning cruise to the region, sailing for the first time in the Company's 56year history from Doha, Qatar to Mauritius. The itinerary provides for a unique combination of calls to the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Seychelles, Kenya, Tanzania and Madagascar.

For more information visit www.ncl.com or head over to Hall 25/122 at ITB Berlin.

Norwegian Cruise Line was voted ‘World’s Leading Cruise Line 2022’ by World Travel Awards.

Breaking Travel News spotlight on: Maldives

tourism

Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has revealed the island destination welcomed 1.6 million guests in 2022 - as the recovery from Covid19 continued. The figure met the target set by president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

MMPRC said the milestone, announced by president Solih in his presidential address in 2022 year, was achieved through the hard work and dedication of government agencies, industry stakeholders and travel trade partners from across the globe.

An event was held to celebrate the arrival of the 1.6 millionth visitor of 2022

Tejas Sanjay Kothari from India arrived in the Maldives for his honeymoon onboard Air Vistara flight UK271. He was conferred special gifts on behalf of MMPRC, the tourism ministry and other stakeholders.

In a further success, the Maldives was also selected by voters at the World Travel Awards as the World’s Leading Destination for the third year in succession in 2022.

Thoyyib Mohamed, MMPRC managing director, stated: “We are celebrating yet another milestone following our recent momentous wins at the World Travel Awards. It is no small feat

for a tiny nation like ours to be crowned the World’s Leading Destination thrice in a row.”

He added: “Our perseverance during the harshest of times that the world has seen recently led us to these achievements. All this is undeniably the result of the foresight of the government in policy formulation; implementation during and post-covid; the sacrifices and hard work of employees of the tourism sector; the joint efforts of every single tourism sector stakeholder; and the noteworthy efforts of MMPRC staff and our network of global travel trade partners.

“We move forward now, with even more determination to uphold this level of service excellence.”

Minister of tourism, Abdulla Mausoom, also made a statement regarding the achievement of this national milestone.

“Appreciate the engagement and support of travel and tourism industry stakeholders in achieving yet another milestone of Maldives Tourism success story. Congratulations all! This quick rebound of Maldives tourism to pre-pandemic level is a clear indication of the visionary leadership of president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, sound

World Travel Awards victory caps recovery year for Maldives

tourism policies and the strong partnership between the government and the private sector,” the minister said.

In 2021, the Maldives achieved the 1.3 million tourist arrival mark set by the government two months ahead of the forecasted date. In 2022, 1.6 million tourist arrival figure is a 23.1 per cent increase compared to last year.

As of the fourth quarter of 2022, MMPRC had conducted over 171 marketing and promotional activities including 88 marketing campaigns, 41 fairs, six roadshows, ten virtual

17 familiarisation trips and nine other events worldwide to promote Maldives as a tourist destination.

World Travel Awards are globally recognised as the hallmark of industry excellence. This is the third consecutive year that the Maldives had successfully earned the prestigious title, a shining testimony of the trust placed in the ‘magic of Maldivian hospitality’ by travellers from all over the globe.

This year, MMPRC also secured the title of World’s Leading Tourist Board for the first time.

Throughout the year the Maldives has also won several other awards while resorts, properties, tour operators and travel agencies also won individual awards in the global arena.

More Information

Find out more about visiting the Maldives on the official tourism website at www.visitmaldives.com or head over to Hall 5.2/106 at ITB Berlin for a chat with Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation

We move forward now, with even more determination to uphold this level of service excellence

Thoyyib Mohamed, MMPRC managing director

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Jumeirah expands European presence with Le Richemond acquisition

JUMEIRAH ANNOUNCES the acquisition of its first property in Switzerland as it continues its growth trajectory and international expansion.

Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hospitality company and member of Dubai Holding, has announced the acquisition of its first property in Switzerland as it continues its growth trajectory and international expansion. The flagship property – Le Richemond – was founded in 1875 and is located on the banks of Lake Geneva in a prime location at the heart of the city’s business district and a short walk from the city’s luxury designer boutiques.

The move signals Jumeirah’s appetite for investment in key cities that support the diversification of its portfolio and build brand equity as a globally recognised luxury hotel operator. Geneva, as a thriving city, synonymous with luxury living, with a strong international business

community and a robust highend tourism sector, will support Jumeirah’s vision to become one of the world’s top five luxury hotel brands.

The art deco property with its charm and grandeur has been a popular destination for wellknown personalities throughout the years. The hotel features 109 keys with 87 rooms and 22 suites, boasting stunning views across Lac Léman and the mountain peaks of Mont Blanc. The property will undergo extensive renovations, which will commence as soon as possible, to reposition and elevate the guest experience to a level consistent with Jumeirah’s brand expectations. Jumeirah plans to introduce its signature wellness and fitness concepts and will also focus on bringing its culinary

expertise to the banks of Lake Geneva, a city well-regarded for its diverse culinary craftsmanship and innovative spirit, with the introduction of unique destination dining concepts.

Katerina Giannouka, Chief Executive Officer

of Jumeirah Group said: “This is an important acquisition for Jumeirah as it marks our entry into Switzerland, presenting guests with a prestigious address to stay in the heart of Geneva’s most desirable destination, as well as serving as a gateway to worldrenowned ski resorts. Le Richemond is a legendary property with a 140-year legacy and impeccable pedigree, and we are committed to preserving this heritage as we redesign the hotel. We are in pursuit of the

finest architects and designers to curate an exceptional hotel within the Jumeirah portfolio, and we are confident that the re-launch of this property as a new ultra-luxury hotel in Geneva following the completion of the planned renovation works (currently expected in 2025), will support the city’s tourism economy, attracting both domestic and international visitors for business and leisure.”

Giannouka continued: “As the gateway to the mountains of Europe, Geneva is strategically significant for us as we look to diversify our portfolio in major cities with both summer and winter resort destinations.”

Jumeirah’s new property in Geneva is its fifth in Europe, joining The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, and Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel in London, UK; Capri Palace Jumeirah on the island of Capri, Italy; and Jumeirah

Port Soller Hotel & Spa in Mallorca, Spain. Jumeirah Group, which originated in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, has a portfolio of 26 hotels and resorts across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Jumeirah Group is a member of Dubai Holding, a diversified global investment company with operations in over 13 countries, employing more than 20,000 people and with an extensive portfolio of over AED 130 billion worth of assets that support the diversification and sustainable growth of Dubai’s economy across key sectors.

For more information visit www.jumeirah.com

Le Richemond is a legendary property with a 140-year legacy and impeccable pedigree, and we are committed to preserving this heritage as we redesign the hotel

Katerina Giannouka, Chief Executive Officer of Jumeirah Group

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Mission Ferrari megacoaster opens in Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, voted ‘World’s Leading Theme Park’ at World Travel Awards, has unveiled Mission Ferrari, the world’s most immersive mega-coaster and the latest addition to its exhilarating mix of rides.

Mission Ferrari joins Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s unique line-up of attractions which have long taken guests on exhilarating experiences for over a decade. Equipped with the latest advancements in the industry, the themed next generation megacoaster promises passengers an unforgettable ride featuring stunning visuals and an immersive environment like no other. Set in a top-secret international spy headquarters, guests become part of the stealth mission to safely deliver a high-spec Ferrari spy car, commissioned especially for agent Cavallino, to a rendezvous deep within the subterranean level of the Ferrari Factory in Maranello Italy.

Deana Taylor, General Manager at Ferrari

World Abu Dhabi commented on the occasion: “We are excited to announce that the world’s most immersive mega-coaster, Mission Ferrari, is now open to our guests. At Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, we’re passionate about creating thrilling experiences that evoke that ‘Ferrari Feeling’! For over a decade, the Park has maintained its reputation of giving guests unparalleled experiences through record-breaking rides and attractions. This unique ride offers an immersive experience where guests get the chance to see the world through the eyes of agent Cavallino and become part of the story. We can’t wait for our guests to try it.”

The launch of Mission Ferrari will bring the Park’s offerings to over 44 Ferrari-inspired

attractions for both the young and the young at heart, ensuring guests unforgettable memories. This addition come as part of the Park’s commitment to adding new offerings that complement its Ferrari-inspired adventure.

For over a decade, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has been bringing the Ferrari spirit to Yas Island Abu Dhabi and has garnered countless awards and accolades that celebrate the theme park’s rides and attractions, year-round calendar of events and unique dining and shopping experiences.

rides and attractions. It is just minutes away from, Yas Waterworld, the world’s first and only Emirati-themed waterpark, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, The world’s largest indoor theme park and CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi the UAE’s ultimate adventure hub.

For more information, visit www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com

Located on Yas Island, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, home to a variety of family- friendly

The launch of Mission Ferrari will bring the Park’s offerings to over 44 Ferrariinspired attractions for both the young and the young at heart

DFDS expands logistics network in UK & Ireland

DFDS has agreed to acquire the family-owned McBurney Transport Group for a debt-free price of DKK 1.2 billion.

With the acquisition of McBurney Transport Group, DFDS will expand its network in the UK and Ireland and connect services to Europe and Turkey, in which DFDS operates.

McBurney Transport Group is based in Northern Ireland with over 800 employees and serves high-street retailers, supermarkets and food producers with temperaturecontrolled and ambient warehouses and multiple strategically located depots in the UK and Ireland. The Group operates a fleet of around 400 trucks and 1360 trailers, including 955 refrigerated trailers.

Torben Carlsen, CEO DFDS says: “DFDS is dedicated to serving the UK and Irish markets with reliable and efficient transport and logistics services. With increasing importance, we connect our UK and Irish services with the rest of Europe through our extensive network. With the acquisition of the McBurney Transport Group, we enhance the scope of our customer offerings, particularly towards the resilient food sector.”

Norman McBurney OBE, the founder of McBurney Transport Groups, says: “By becoming part of DFDS, we gain access to new development opportunities. I am certain the wider market

coverage, including access to DFDS’ extensive transport network, will benefit our many longstanding customers. I am confident that our many loyal and dedicated employees will be comfortable and happy after this transaction.”

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval. Once approved, the McBurney Transport Group will integrate with DFDS cold chain UK & Ireland.

Beach retreat

The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah occupies a prime beach location in the exciting emirate of Ajman.

Al Zorah is just a short drive from Dubai, but it feels like an eternity away. Framed by one million square metres of protected mangroves, with pristine white sand beaches and lagoons that nurture exceptional biodiversity; almost sixty species of bird, a fish nursery and off shore coral.

Al Zorah also offers a Jack Nicklaus designed championship golf course.

The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah has been thoughtfully designed as a retreat where you can switch off and take time out. The best hotel in Al

Zorah offers sophisticated contemporary architecture, wide open spaces and a natural palette that harmonises with panoramic ocean vistas and long white sand beaches.

With Oberoi’s legendary hospitality and a sense of masterfully crafted luxury, this is the holiday destination our discerning guests have been waiting for. Spacious rooms and villas bathed in natural light with ocean views. Chic interiors and modern technologies.

The elegant living and dining area of the opulent villas with 218 square metres interiors, features floor to ceiling windows that open onto your private pool and private terrace; perfect for barbecues. One of the highlights are the private showers that only you can access directly from the beach. From here, you can enter your ensuite bathroom and from there, your king size and twin bedrooms.

The restaurants and bar at The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah, Ajman are incomparable examples of the finest modern

design, crafted to harmonise with the surrounding natural landscape. Located within a faux glass island, Vinesse, the all-day fine dining restaurant in Al Zorah, serves world cuisine throughout the day. The attached bar serves exquisitely crafted cocktails, and a wide range of spirits and single malts.

The speciality seafood restaurant by the beach is furnished with wall lined sofas, wooden tables and wicker chairs. It has indoor and outdoor seating; the latter is shaded by a pergola for your

comfort during the day and is a romantic candlelit space in the evenings. The menu features responsibly sourced seafood, cooked using specialist methods to retain authentic flavours and nutrition.

The Spa at The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah, features private treatment rooms with open air showers and private hammams, nestled within a labyrinth of open-air corridors with chic, elegant lines that maximise height, space and natural light. Nearby the spa is a 24-hour gymnasium, a yoga pavilion and a table tennis

Things to do in Al Zorah

• Take a swing at Al Zorah’s 18hole championship golf course, designed by Jack Nicklaus

• Try bird watching; Al Zorah is home to almost sixty species of birds

• Experience watersports such as snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, kite surfing, jet skiing paragliding, fishing trips, sail boat cruises and much more

• Take a short drive for some retail therapy in Dubai. While there you should also go to the top of the Burj Khalifa, for afternoon tea with spectacular views

• Dubai Opera offers unforgettable international performances, while Lego Land is a must for children

deck. Central to the resort is a temperature-controlled 85 metre swimming pool (265 feet), a children’s activity area, with a sandbox and two shallow swimming pools for toddlers and young children.

Atlantis The Royal opens with Beyoncé Grand Reveal

Dubai’s iconic new landmark, Atlantis The Royal heralded its opening with Beyoncé lighting up the stage after a five-year hiatus with an aweinspiring performance.

The global pop sensation was accompanied by Firdaus, a 48person orchestra. From the powerful choreography by Emmy-nominated Fatima Robinson, to the featured Mayyas dance group and a special duet with her daughter Blue Ivy, Beyoncé’s performance was unforgettable. The song lineup included a soulful rendition of Etta James's ‘At Last,’ before diving into a medley of her greatest hits including ‘XO,’ ‘Halo,’ ‘Beautiful Liar,’ ‘Crazy in Love,’ ‘Naughty Girl,’ and ‘Drunk in Love’.

In a breath-taking finale moment, Beyoncé was raised 16 feet into the air as a first-ofits kind fireworks display lit up

the night sky using drones created by Grucci. To end the evening, guests celebrated into the morning hours with a live afterparty performance by the international DJ supergroup Swedish House Mafia. A spectacle unlike anything the world has ever seen, Atlantis The Royal has made history.

More information

To find out more about Atlantis The Royal visit www.atlantis.com/ atlantisthe-royal or head over to Hall 2.2/100 at ITB Berlin.

Photos: Atlantis The Royal

WORLD SPA AWARDS GALA

2023

3 October 2023

Sandals inks content partnership with Berlin’s GIATA

GIATA DRIVE, a Berlin-based technology company that specializes in automated hotel content management, has secured a partnership with Unique Travel Corp, worldwide representatives for Sandals Resorts International, that will help increase the visibility and accessibility of the Sandals brand.

Through the integration of GIATA DRIVE, Sandals Resorts International’s most up-todate hotel content – including resort descriptions, images, and factsheets – will be further seamlessly showcased to international guests. The content management system will help to support and enhance Sandals Resorts

International’s reach and promote ts offerings to millions of holidaymakers who are searching for luxury Caribbean accommodations.

Sandals Resorts International is the parent company of the Caribbean's leading luxury allinclusive resort brands, Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, which has 24 properties in Jamaica, Antigua, the Bahamas, Grenada, Barbados, St. Lucia, Curaçao and Turks and Caicos.

"GIATA has been specialising in delivering premium content solutions since its founding," says Rainer Schaefer, VP Sales, at GIATA GmbH. “With GIATA DRIVE’s distribution

capabilities, we are continuing our mission by enabling distribution of verified, cleansed information that highlights the best customer journey possible for our clients and increase their revenues.” Family-owned and operated, Sandals Resorts International is the largest private employer in the region.

For more information about Sandals Resorts visit www.sandals.co.uk

For more information about Beaches Resorts visit www.beaches.co.uk.

SANDALS GRENADA

OMRAN launches highoctane 1,800 metre zipline

The Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has announced the soft opening of an 1,800-metre dual zipline in the Wilayat of Khasab, in the Governorate of Musandam.

The zipline project is the first activity offered by the Oman Adventure Centre, which is being developed as part of a comprehensive development plan for the region, offering tourists unique experiences that combine adventure and exploration.

The Musandam Governorate aims to diversify its tourism market by providing a wide variety of quality products and experiences. This will enable it to draw out its potential and highlight its position as a prominent tourist destination in the region.

The Oman Adventure Centre was designed to

accommodate a broad range of facilities, providing visitors with an integrated tourism experience. The zipline project will be managed and operated by LEOS, a specialist operator that runs adventure and entertainment projects on a regional and international scale.

The Musandam Governorate is a

mountainous peninsula in Oman, projecting into the Strait of Hormuz, separated from the rest of the country by the United Arab Emirates. Its jagged coastline features fjordlike inlets called khors, and its waters are home to dolphins and other marine life.

Mubarak bin Ali al Rahbi, Head of the Musandam Governor’s Office said,

“The Musandam Governorate has a wealth of tourism offerings that can be utilised to develop a wide range of tourism projects. This project illustrates our ongoing efforts to utilise these elements for tourism development.” He added, “We are confident that the zipline project will encourage businesses within and outside the Governorate to develop more tourism-related services. In doing so, they will contribute to the sector’s growth, aligning with our vision to place Musandam on the local and regional map of the most prominent tourist destinations, especially in the areas of exploration and adventure.”

Said Hareb Al Obaidani, Director General of Tourism Development at

the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, said: “The Ministry is working to stimulate development and investment in the various key tourist destinations in the Sultanate of Oman, especially the Governorate of Musandam. Our goal is to enhance the tourism services ecosystem with a variety of specialised multi-use projects that satisfy the desires and tastes of various tourist segments. Currently in its soft opening phase, the zipline project serves as a quality benchmark for developing tourism products and enhanced tourism experiences that we aspire to achieve.”

He added: “In addition to the zipline project, we are also developing several hiking and mountain

biking trails in the Musandam Governorate, installing informational and guiding signboards that meet all required safety and security standards. The Ministry is seeking, in cooperation with all partners, to explore investment opportunities in the Musandam Governorate’s tourism sector, aiming to make it an investment of choice destination within the tourism sector. Given the uniqueness of the geographical, natural and cultural elements within the Governorate of Musandam, it serves as an ideal destination to accomplish our goal of enriching the adventure tourism sector in the Sultanate of Oman”

The project has also generated great social benefits and added value

to the local communities that surround it. A prominent example is the development of 3.5 kilometres of Jebel Fitt Street, which leads up to the Adventure Centre and the villages beyond. The development of this road has contributed significantly to the ease of movement to and from the villages. Guests wanting to experience the zipline can visit the Oman Adventure Centre from 09:0016:00hrs.

For more information visit www.omran.om, and to find out more about Oman Ministry of Heritage & Tourism head over to Hall 2.2/203

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OMRAN opens art space

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has opened a unique ‘Walk In’ Creative Art Space at The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC).

The art space is a permanent platform that will be used to display the works of prominent Omani artists, and falls within the framework of the ‘Creatourism’ programme, one of OMRAN’s initiatives to promote Oman’s rich and diverse art, culture and heritage in its various developments and hotels.

The opening ceremony was held under the auspices of HE Sayyed Said bin Sultan Al Busiadi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for Culture, and witnessed the presence of the Chairman of the Board of Directors, OMRAN Group’s CEO, and several officials and national artists.

Speaking on occasion, HE Sayyed Said bin Sultan Al Busiadi said, “The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth is working toward activating the cultural strategy (2021-2040) by supporting platforms and initiatives that promote Omani art and culture. In particular, those that achieve the eight

values that underpin our strategy. By supporting these initiatives we delivering on the mission of our strategy. This encompasses organising and developing cultural works and creating the appropriate environment to foster creativity to strengthen the country’s cultural identity”.

“Supporting platforms that celebrate the creative work of Omani artists fulfil the values of the cultural strategy. This ‘Walk In’ Creative Art Space, and the ‘Creatourism’ initiative under which it falls, are exactly such platforms. They bring together creative minds from all over the country to showcase the breadth and depth of art, culture, and heritage in Oman while contributing to the growth and development of the country’s tourism sector.”

The art space, located at one of the main entrances of the OCEC, will serve as a permanent space that celebrates creative arts. Currently, it features more than

30 specially curated art pieces by talented Omani artists, including Alia Al Farsi, Anwar Sonya, Asila Juma, Budoor Al Riyami, Gaith Al Siyabi, Hassan Meer, Idris Al Hooti, Israa AlBalushi, Majeda Alhinai, Marwa Al- Kaabi, Mazin AlHarthi, Moosa Omar, Nada Al Masoudi and Ruqayia Al Balushi.

Hassan Meer, the Art & Culture Expert at OMRAN Group, commented on the Art Space, saying, “As part of our ‘Creatourism’ initiative, we aim to give local artists a platform to showcase their talent and celebrate their creative artworks. Moreover, we aim to leverage the initiative to enrich our assets with creative arts by local artists, utilising their skills and capabilities to enhance the country’s tourist experiences, primarily through art and culture-related shops, exhibitions, and activities at our tourist facilities.”

The OMRAN Group has continued to develop various programmes and activities, such as the ‘Creatourism’ programme, as part of its commitment to nurturing, inspiring and promoting promising local talent. It also showcases the group’s commitment to its sustainability framework, which is based on four main pillars: economy, society, environment, and cultural heritage.

For more information visit www.omran.om, and to find out more about Oman Ministry of Heritage & Tourism head over to Hall 2.2/203.

SHA voted ‘World’s Best Wellness Clinic’

The World Spa Awards annually recognise and reward excellence in all sectors involved in the spa and wellness tourism industry. The vote, which was open for 12 weeks, was open not only to regular wellness tourism customers, who are increasingly knowledgeable about the subject, but also to industry and media professionals. In a very short space of time, these prestigious awards have become an international benchmark.

SHA is characterised by its global and integrative approach to health, fusing the latest advances in scientific

medicine with the most proven and effective holistic therapies, enhancing the effect that these would have separately, always seeking to obtain the best results in a healthy and sustainable way, in the shortest possible time.

Alejandro Bataller, Vice President of SHA Wellness Clinic, sums up the emotion and, at the same time, the enormous responsibility of receiving the awards for Best Wellness Clinic in the World 2022 and Best Wellness Retreat in Spain 2022: “Obtaining this new recognition gives all of us in the SHA family an even greater motivation to continue

evolving, innovating and helping each of our guests to achieve and maintain an optimal state of health and wellbeing over time”.

After the success of its establishment in Spain, responsible for having brought about a positive change in the health and wellbeing of more than 65,000 people from all over the world, including a long list of celebrities, SHA now faces its international expansion with the opening of SHA Mexico planned for the end of 2023 and SHA Emirates planned for the end of 2024.

To find out more visit www.shawellnessclinic.com

The 8th edition of the World Spa Awards has recognised SHA Wellness Clinic as the ‘World’s Best Wellness Clinic 2022’ and ‘Spain’s Best Wellness Retreat 2022’.

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Etihad unveils new Lisbon service

Etihad Airways is expanding its European network with the introduction of a new direct service between Abu Dhabi and Lisbon from the start of July 2023.

The airline will be connecting Abu Dhabi to Portugal’s capital city in time for the summer holidays, with three weekly flights scheduled to be operated on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sundays.

“We’re excited to introduce flights to Portugal for the first time and provide our guests with convenient travel options to one of the most popular summer destinations for 2023,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways.

“As one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, the coastal city of Lisbon is a great entry-point to exploring the rest of the country, with perfect beaches, historic castles, fantastic nightlife and a warm and welcoming people.

“Our new direct connection will enhance the trade and tourism ties between the UAE and Portugal, and we are grateful for the support of the Portuguese authorities in establishing our new air link.”

Lisbon was voted ‘Europe’s Leading City Break Destination 2022’ by voters of World Travel Awards, whilst Portugal was named ‘Europe’s Leading Destination 2022’.

Summer flights to Malaga and Mykonos

As well as introducing flights to Lisbon, Etihad Airways will be returning to Málaga on the Spanish Costa del Sol and the popular Greek island of Mykonos this summer.

Etihad Airways will be flying to Málaga twice-per-week from 18 June 2023. Lying on a wide bay with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and one of the most visited coastal cities in Spain, Málaga is famous for its miles-long sandy beaches, culture and food.

Travellers can also look forward to Etihad Airways launching flights to Mykonos, lying in the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea, with twice-per-week services on Mondays and Fridays from 16 June 2023. With worldclass beaches, restaurants and entertainment, as well as plenty of opportunities to discover ancient Greek history, the island is one of the hottest summer spots in Europe.

With the addition of new routes to Lisbon, Malaga and Mykonos, Etihad Airways will be offering travellers nearly 160 weekly flights to 21 destinations in Europe this summer, with 20% more seats available than in 2022.

Etihad was named ‘World’s Leading Airline - Economy Class 2022’ and ‘World’s Leading Airline Lounge - First Class 2022’ by voters of World Travel Awards.

For more information about Eithad Airways visit etihad.com - or head over to Hall 22/103B here at ITB Berlin 2023.

We’re excited to introduce flights to Portugal for the first time and provide our guests with convenient travel options to one of the most popular summer destinations

Antonoaldo Neves, CEO, Etihad Airways

Six Senses to open Napa Valley wellness retreat

Six Senses is taking its wellness and sustainability formula to California’s Napa County. The retreat is slated to open in 2026.

“Six Senses Napa Valley will marry the region’s beauty with the unique natural resources of the original Aetna Springs,” said Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs.

Conveniently located a twohour drive from San Francisco, Six Senses Napa Valley will welcome guests to the western edge of a vast 3,000acre estate. The existing structures will be sensitively preserved, and the landscape regenerated to bring back the beauty and functionality of the natural mineral springs, with a focus on native planting.

There will be a choice of 95 rooms and suites, including ten tent-style structures, with interiors designed by 1508 London, known for their knowledge and unique capabilities in luxury hospitality. There will also be

16 branded residences, which will be serviced by Six Senses.

With a retreat vibe and location, wellness will be front and centre in luring local and international guests. Programming will include yoga, meditation, mindfulness, Visiting Practitioners, and various treatments and therapies, all inspired by nature.

The historic mineral springs will be revived with indoor and outdoor thermal experiences and bathing.

The investment group, comprising Weller Development Partners, Pegasus Capital Advisors, and IHG Hotels & Resorts, will work with expert partners in sustainability to restore the recreational green spaces, vineyards, and agricultural

activities supporting the resort. The water bottling program will tap into the natural springs and offset operational water requirements. Practices such as rewilding zones and the use of sustainable design and materials will help the resort achieve LEED certification.

“We couldn’t be more excited about our ongoing partnership with Six Senses and Pegasus Capital Advisors,” said Marc Weller, Founding Partner and President at Weller Development Partners. “As we continue to strategically expand our hospitality division nationally and internationally, the Aetna Springs development in Napa presents a phenomenal opportunity to marry the top luxury hotel brand in the world with one of the most incredible natural landscapes in the United States.”

Six Senses hotlyanticipated Rome opening

The new Six Senses hotel in Rome is among Europe’s top hotel openings in 2023. Located at the Piazza di San Marcello, it is just 5 minutes from the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. The main facade, which is UNESCO listed and

overlooks the Via del Corso, is being restored along with the grand staircase. The accommodation will offer 95 rooms and suites, many with high ceilings and unique layouts.

For more information visit www.sixsenses.com

A 5-star contemporary style beachfront property featuring 13 hotel rooms, suites and private villas, multiple restaurants and 450-meter private beach, Tone Gym, Nikki Spa, two overs and iconic beach club, Nikki Beach Dubai.

luxurious d lounges, a sized pools,

Emirates seals agreement to manage Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

The Emirates Group has renewed its agreement with Dubai Municipality for the management of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR), in its continuous commitment to preserving wildlife and protecting natural habitats. As custodian of the reserve for over 20 years, the Emirates Group is charged with its full operations and funding of its efforts to nurture the fragile ecosystem of the UAE, in addition to research and education programs.

With Dubai’s rapid pace of development and urbanisation over the past two decades, the DDCR was borne out of the Dubai Government’s commitment to preserving the emirate’s unique desert habitat and biodiversity. The reserve is the UAE’s first national park, spanning an area of 225 square kilometres which is roughly 5% of the total land area of Dubai.

Signing the agreement on behalf of Emirates Group, Ali Mubarak Al Soori, Executive Vice PresidentFacilities, Projects Management & Group Procurement & Supply Chain said: “At the core of Emirates’ Group strategic goals is our commitment to sustainability and protecting the precious environment that we operate in. Since the establishment of DDCR in 2002, the Emirates Group has supported this important initiative by operating the reserve and managing its vast facilities on behalf of the Government of Dubai. The UAE has declared 2023 the Year of Sustainability, and we are proud to continue playing a role in achieving the nation’s sustainability goals.”

Commenting on the renewed management agreement, Engineer Alya Abdulrahim Alharmoudi, Acting CEO – Environment, Health & Safety Agency at Dubai Municipality, added: “Our collaboration with Emirates Airline to preserve and manage the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (Al Maha) demonstrates the significant role of public-private partnerships in promoting the sustainable development of natural reserves.”

The Emirates Group has invested more than AED 28 million in the reserve since its establishment in 2002, to fund and support the conservation of the natural desert landscape and its indigenous fauna and flora. The protected inland desert habitat is currently home to over 560 different species of plants and trees, birds, mammals, reptiles and arthropods - more than double the original 150 indigenous species which thrived in the area prior to DDCR’s efforts. The reserve’s effective management strategies have helped promote the natural processes that lead to rewilding of the desert habitat and its rehabilitation.

By protecting Dubai’s valuable desert ecosystems, Emirates has also made it possible for the DDCR to provide an authentic desert experience for visitors through carefully managed and monitored tours. Funding from the Emirates Group and limited tour operations at the DDCR also enables the reserve to conduct scientific research, collect data, and develop new technologies necessary for its

management, in addition to rolling out education programs designed to enrich the visitor experience.

The sustainable tourism offering allows visitors from around the world to experience spectacular dune drives, desert safaris and traditional Arabian experiences while gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of the desert’s natural habitat, heritage and wildlife, and the importance of conservation. A new Desert Visitor Centre is currently being developed to further enhance the educational experience for guests of the reserve.

The DDCR operates under the supervision of the Dubai Conservation Board (DCB) which is chaired by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Since the inception of the DDCR, the reserve has been immensely successful in growing the population of sand gazelles, Arabian gazelles and the Arabian onyx, from 230 initially to over 1,300 today. A further 171 Arabian Oryx have been relocated to other protected areas in the UAE. Also amongst its other milestone achievements are the reintroduction of 2,800 Houbara, or Macqueen’s Bustard, which roam freely within the safe environment of the reserve. In excess of 31,000 native trees flourish in the vast area, which include the Ghaf tree, native to the desert and known for its ability to survive its extreme climate conditions without irrigation.

To find out more visit emirates.com or head over to Hall 2.2/100 at ITB Berlin.

Sandals introduces cutting-edge accommodations in Jamaica and St. Lucia

Beaches Negril, Jamaica

Sandals Resorts International (SRI) has unveiled the next generation expansions to its beloved, flagship family resort, Beaches Negril in Jamaica, and the lush, nature-laden Sandals Halcyon Beach in Castries, St. Lucia.

A favourite among families for its intimacy and quintessential island hospitality, Beaches Negril will add a total of 12 new

and expansive butler suites, bringing its room count to 197 luxury accommodations. The new additions consist of six all-new Firesky Reserve Villas – each offering four bedrooms spanning three stories and an unprecedented 3,700 square feet.

On the opposite end of the resort’s coastline and comprising six suites, the

Eventide Penthouse Collection will give nod to the calm waters and the minimal change in tides along the beach – ranging from three to four bedrooms each and accommodating up to 18 with access to a rooftop terrace ideal for stargazing and soaking in the soothing breeze.

Sandals Halcyon Beach, St. Lucia

Privy to some of St. Lucia’s calmest and brightest blue seas, Sandals Halcyon Beach capitalizes on its magical setting with the addition of 25 butler accommodations. The expansion includes 20 Joli Beachfront Suites built right on the edge of the shore, offering a combination of suites with walkout beach access and private pools, as well as second-story accommodations. Five new Koko Rondoval Villas will be meticulously intertwined among the resort’s lush landscaping, steps from the sea.

The expansion will bring the total number of rooms and suites to 194 modern-meetsquintessentially Caribbean accommodations, complementing the resort’s lush, garden of eden-

like pathways, six gourmet restaurants, watersports, access to golf, as well as an additional 21 eateries at the two nearby awardwinning Sandals Resorts in St. Lucia.

“Our guest experience drives everything we do and these new suites are emblematic of our unrelenting move across the brands as we challenge ourselves to reimagine every facet of the business,” said Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International. “We wanted to go beyond traditional luxury and these new suites are stunners; it’s about design and amenities that make connecting with each other more comfortable and more fulfilling.”

Expansions at Beaches Negril and Sandals Halcyon mark just the beginning of news projected for 2023 and beyond including the opening of the highly anticipated Sandals Dunn’s River, debuting in May 2023, as well as additional projects and new openings across Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, Curaçao, St. Vincent & The Grenadines and more.

Sandals was voted ‘Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort Company’ at the World Travel Awards 2022.

For more information visit www.sandals.com

THE LEADER IN U.S. CRUISING

American Cruise Lines is the leader in U.S. River & Coastal cruising and is the largest cruise line in the U.S. Offering the newest and most environmentally friendly fl ee t of 100 to 200 passenger ships, American visits 34 states across the country with over 35 itineraries, ranging from 5 to 22 days in length. Year after year, American is the most awarded U.S. cruise line and has been consistently recognized for providing personalized service aboard the fi nest ships. With over 30 year s of experience in cruising, American Cruise Lines exceeds the expectations of the most seasoned and sophist icated traveler.

THE NEWEST FLEET OF SMALL SHIP

INCLUDING THE FIRST AMERICAN RIVERBOATS & COASTAL CATS IN THE U.S.

MODERN RIVERBOATS

PADDLEWHEELERSCOASTAL CRUISE SHIPS

THE AMERICAN CRUISE EXPERIENCE

American’s itineraries offer a personalized, all-inclusive cruise experience featuring: fi ne dining, complimentary cocktails each evening, complimentary beer & wine with lunch and dinner, complimentary onboard entertainment, many complimentary shore excursions, as well as included tips and gratuities. Many cruises also include complimentary pre-cruise hotel and transportation packages in the most beautiful port cities across the country. American Cruise Lines caters especia lly well to mature, sophisticated travelers in search of culturally unique and enriching American experiences.

Saadiyat Island –Arabia’s beach paradise

Voters of World Travel Awards have named Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi as ‘Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination’

Overlooking the glittering turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf and a short drive from Abu Dhabi’s downtown, guests can expect to be mesmerized by the tranquil and idyllic beaches nestled on Saadiyat Island. For the 11th consecutive year, Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi has been crowned as the “Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination” by the World Travel Awards, reaffirming its spot as the Middle East’s best beach destination.

Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi offers guests unique and inspiring experiences, guaranteed to take them on a transformative journey. Guests

can expect captivating natural surroundings, pristine white sandy beaches, thriving wildlife and marine life, luxurious resorts, and a vibrant culture and entertainment scene.

Liam Findlay, CEO of Miral Destinations said, “It is no secret that Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi has a well-deserved reputation for having one of the best beaches in the Middle East, further cemented by the World Travel Award for ‘Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination’ for 11 years in a row. With expansive white sandy beaches, we welcome guests and their families to relax, unwind and experience

all that Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi has to offer. This truly is a place to revitalise your senses and nourish your soul.”

Choose from the many beaches and begin your journey by accessing Saadiyat Beach Club which is located along the serene shores of the Arabian Gulf. This lifestyle spot offers guests the ultimate luxury experience with tranquil settings, fine dining restaurants, and an outdoor swimming pool. As the sun sets, unwind in a private cabana or lounge on the beach where playful bottlenose dolphins make frequent appearances.

Nestled in the heart of Saadiyat Island, Kai Beach will transport guests to a dreamlike setting to rest, reconnect, and rejuvenate where guests can escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Guests are also invited to visit Soul Beach, located in the heart of Mamsha Al Saadiyat, and marvel at the glittering waters of the Arabian Gulf.

Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi offers a plethora of five-star resorts on the island to complement the ultimate beach experience with lush greens, and tranquil turquoise beaches.

Choose from Jumeriah at Saadiyat Island Resort, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, The St. Regis

Saadiyat Island Resort and Nurai Island.

Furthermore, Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi is a protected haven for wildlife and marine life where guests can witness these animals in their natural habitats. Arabian gazelles are often spotted roaming around Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and by the coast, visitors can see the endangered hawksbill turtle that seasonally nest on Saadiyat Island’s pristine beach.

At the Culture District, guests can immerse themselves at Manarat Al Saadiyat, a space designed for creative artistic expression and offers a range of cultural activities interactive exhibitions art classes and community events and performances all year around. The

iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi features magnificent architecture, and an expansive collection of artworks open to the public.

Additionally, Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi is a rejuvenating wellness destination, with premium yoga and wellness offerings. The spas across Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi are an innovative, all-encompassing collective of health, fitness, and beauty.

Head over to Hall 2.2/200 at ITB Berlin to find out more.

This truly is a place to revitalise your senses and nourish your soul

Liam Findlay, CEO, Miral Destinations

BREAKING TRAVEL NEWS TRAVEL CALENDAR

YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR TRAVEL INDUSTRY EVENTS ACROSS THE WORLD

March 2023

Virtuoso Connects

AUS/NZ 2023

1 March 2023

Australia virtuosomeetings.virtuoso .com

ABTA Travel Finance Conference 2023

1-2 March 2023

United Kingdom abta.com/events/travelfinance-conferencevirtual

AIME - Aircraft Interiors

Middle East 2023

1-2 March 2023

Dubai World Trade Centre United Arab Emirates aime.aero

BC Tourism & Hospitality Conference 2023

1-3 March 2023

Canada bctourismconference.ca

HI Design MEA 2023

1-3 March 2023

Online hidesign-mea.com

Strategic Platform for iGaming Conference & Exhibition (SPiCE) India 2023

1-3 March 2023

India

sportsbettingevents.com/ spice-india

BTL 2023

1-5 March 2023

Feira Internacional de Lisboa Portugal btl.fil.pt

Formula 1 Gulf Air

Bahrain Grand Prix 2023

3-5 March 2023

Bahrain formula1.com

IITM Kolkata 2023

3-5 March 2023

India iitmindia.com

The Outdoor Adventure & Travel ShowVancouver 2023

4-5 March 2023

Vancouver Convention Centre Canada outdooradventureshow.c a/vancouver

Connections Luxury

Middle East 2023

4-7 March 2023

Oman weareconnections.com

The Ocean City Spring Trade Expo 2023

5-6 March 2023

Ocean City Convention Center United States oceancitytradeexpo.com

Arival 360 - Berlin 2023

5-7 March 2023

Germany arivalevent.com

BITAC® Luxury 2023

5-7 March 2023

Caribe Hilton United States bitac.net

TO THE TABLE MEA 2023

6-8 March 2023

Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

United Arab Emirates tothetablemea.com

Visit North Carolina 365 Conference 2023

6-8 March 2023

Omni Grove Park Inn United Kingdom visitnc365.com

Deluxe Travel Market Kazakhstan 2023

7 March 2023

Rixos Almaty Kazakhstan deluxetravelmarket.com

Virtuoso Connects US 2023

7 March 2023 United States virtuosomeetings.virtuoso .com

ITB Berlin 2023

7-9 March 2023

Messe Berlin Germany itb-berlin.com

AdventureConnect - ITB Berlin 2023

8 March 2023

Green Stage, Hall 3.1 / Messe Berlin Germany adventuretravel.biz/event s/adventureconnect

Virtuoso Connects US 2023

8 March 2023 United States virtuosomeetings.virtuoso .com

ScotHot 2023

8-9 March 2023

SECC Glasgow United Kingdom scothot.co.uk

Deluxe Travel Market

Uzbekistan 2023

10 March 2023

Hyatt Regency Tashkent Uzbekistan deluxetravelmarket.com

Uzakrota Europe 2023

10 March 2023

Mecure Moa Hotel Germany

uzakrota.com

DRT Show Taiwan 2023

10-12 March 2023

Taipei Flora EXPO Dome Taiwan drtexpo.com/taiwan

Business Travel Trends and Forecasts - Seattle 2023

11 March 2023

United States btngroupconferences.co m

CLIA RiverView Conference 2023

12-14 March 2023

Austria cruising.org/engb/events/2023/march/ri verview-conference2023--vienna

Virtuoso Forum LAC 2023

12-15 March 2023

Mexico virtuosomeetings.virtuoso .com

Africa ShowcaseCentral Eastern Europe 2023

12-16 March 2023

Germany africashowcase.travel

IMM 2023

13-14 March 2023

QEII Centre United Kingdom travmedia.com/immuk

intourmarket Moscow 2023

13-15 March 2023

Expocentre Russia itmexpo.ru/en

Independent Hotel Show 2023

14-15 March 2023

Amsterdam RAI

Netherlands independenthotelshow.nl

Arab Aviation Summit 2023

14-16 March 2023

Al Hamara International Exhibition and Conference Centre United Arab Emirates arabaviationsummit.net

ABTA: Delivering Sustainable Travel 2023

15 March 2023

United Kingdom abta.com/events/deliveri ng-sustainable-travelconference

AdventureConnectProvidence 2023

15 March 2023

Johnson & Wales University

United States adventuretravel.biz/event s/adventureconnect

ASTA Global River Cruise Expo 2023

15-18 March 2023

Hungary asta.org

Destination Australia Conference 2023

16 March 2023

International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney Australia tourism.australia.com

CAPA Airline Leader Summit 2023

16-17 March 2023

Hungary

centreforaviation.com/ev ents

BMT 2023

16-18 March 2023

Italy bmtnapoli.com

MITT - Moscow

International Travel & Tourism Exhibition 2023

16-18 March 2023

Crocus Expo Russia mitt.ru/en

Ferien-Messe Wien 2023

16-19 March 2023

Vienna Exhibition Center Austria ferien-messe.at/en/home

Salon Mondial du Tourisme 2023

16-19 March 2023

PARIS EXPO PAVILLON 4 France salons-dutourisme.com/Paris

SITE Incentive Summit

Americas 2023

16-19 March 2023

United States siteglobal.com/event/site -incentive-summitamericas-isa

Deluxe Travel Market Belarus 2023

17 March 2023

Renaissance Minsk Hotel Belarus deluxetravelmarket.com

Deluxe Travel Market Georgia 2023

17 March 2023

Rooms Hotel Tbilisi Georgia deluxetravelmarket.com

Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabia Grand Prix 2023

17-19 March 2023

Jeddah Corniche Circuit Saudi Arabia formula1.com

WETM-IAC 2023

18-20 March 2023

Greece wetm-iac.org

International Conference on Tourism and Hospitality - Tokyo 2023

20-21 March 2023

Japan waset.org/tourism-andhospitality-conferencein-march-2023-in-tokyo

Hotel, Restaurant & Catering (HRC) 2023

20-22 March 2023

ExCel London United Kingdom hrc.co.uk

Business Travel Trends and ForecastsWashington DC 2023

21 March 2023

United States businesstraveltrends.com

ETOA European Travel Marketplace - North America 2023

21 March 2023

Online etoa.org

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Shanghai 2023

21 March 2023

China chinaute.com/en/index.aspx

Nordic Business Travel Summit 2023

21-22 March 2023

Sweden nordicbta.com

Hunter Hotel Conference 2023

21-23 March 2023

Atlanta Marriott Marquis Hotel

United States hunterconference.com

IT&CM China - Physical 2023

21-23 March 2023

China itcma.com

Routes Americas 2023

21-23 March 2023

United States routesonline.com

AdventureConnect - UK 2023

22 March 2023

Punchbowl Inn United Kingdom adventuretravel.biz/event s/adventureconnect

Youth Marketing Strategy New York 2023

22-23 March 2023

Brookly United States

ymsnyc.voxburner.com

Asia Pacific Summit for Aviation Safety (APSAS) 2023

22-24 March 2023

Sands Expo & Convention Centre

Singapore flightsafety.org/apsas2023

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Beijing 2023

23 March 2023

China china-ute.com/en

B-Travel 2023

24-26 March 2023

Montjuïc Spain b-travel.com

Dubai World Cup 2023

25 March 2023

Meydan Racecourse United Arab Emirates dubairacingclub.com

MCE North & West Europe 2023

26-28 March 2023

Vila Nova de Gaia

Portugal europecongress.com

Mountain Travel Symposium 2023

26-31 March 2023

Canada mtntrvl.com

BTN CALENDAR

HFTP Club Summit 2023

27-28 March 2023

Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center

United States

hftp.org/hospitality_confe rences/hftp_club_summit

HOTCO - HOTEL INVESTMENT

CONFERENCE CEE 2023

27-28 March 2023 Austria hotconf.com

SAHIC Latin America & The Caribbean 2023

27-28 March 2023

Hilton Cartagena Hotel Colombia sahic.com

Select Traveler Conference 2023

27-29 March 2023

United States selecttravelerconf.com

Seatrade Cruise Global 2023

27-30 March 2023

Greater Fort Lauderdale Broward County Convention Center United States seatradecruiseglobal.com

TTG Aussie Fest 2023

27-31 March 2023

Online ttgmedia.com/aussie-fest

New Deal Europe 2023

28 March 2023

United Kingdom newdealeurope.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Guangzhou 2023

28 March 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

China Clean Expo

Shanghai 2023

28-31 March 2023

Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC)

China chinacleanexpo.com/ en-us

Hotel & Shop Plus 2023

28-31 March 2023

Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC)

China en.hotelex.cn/hotelplus

Skift Future of Lodging Forum 2023

29 March 2023

United Kingdom live.skift.com/travelloyalty-summit

International Conference on Tourism and Hospitality - Sydney 2023

29-30 March 2023

Australia waset.org/tourism-andhospitality-conferencein-march-2023-in-sydney

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Chengdu 2023

30 March 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

AdventureConnectBologna 2023

31 March - 2 April 2023

DumBO Space

Italy

adventuretravel.biz/event s/adventureconnect

Formula 1 Rolex

Australian Grand Prix 2023

31 March - 2 April 2023

Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit

Australia formula1.com

ILTM AfricaInternational Luxury Travel Market Africa 2023

31 March - 2 April 2023

Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)

South Africa

www.iltm.com/africa

April 2023

The Travel and Vacation Show 2023

1-2 April 2023

Shaw Centre

Canada

travelandvacationshow.ca

Travel & Adventure Show

- Dallas 2023

1-2 April 2023

Dallas Market Hall

United States

adventureexpo.com

COTTM - China

Outbound Travel and Tourism Market 2023

3-5 April 2023

New Hall, National Agricultural Exhibition Center

China cottm.com

World Travel Market

Latin America 2023

3-5 April 2023 Brazil latinamerica.wtm.com

SPATEC North America 2023

3-6 April 2023

La Cantera Resort & Spa United States spatecevents.com

SPATEC Spring 2023

3-6 April 2023

La Cantera Resort & Spa

United States spatecevents.com

IBTM Asia Pacific 2023

4-5 April 2023

Marina Bay Sands

Singapore Singapore ibtmasiapacific.com

Travel & Adventure Show - Atlanta 2023

4-5 April 2023

Georgia World Congress Center

United States adventureexpo.com

AAHOA Convention & Trade Show 2023

4-7 April 2023

Los Angeles Convention Center United States www.aahoa.com

Azerbaijan International Travel & Tourism Fair (AITF) 2023

6-8 April 2023

Baku Expo Centre Azerbaijan aitf.az

DigiMarCon Cruise 2023

6-10 April 2023

Royal Caribbean ‘Mariner of the Seas’ Cruise Ship United States digimarconcruise.com

Business Travel Trends and Forecasts - Boston 2023

10 April 2023

United States businesstravelnews.com/ Business-Travel-Events

IT&CM China - Virtual 2023

11-12 April 2023

Online itcma.com

DigiMarCon Los Angeles 2023

12-13 April 2023

Loews Hollywood Hotel United States

digimarconlosangeles.co m

EMITT - East Mediterranean International Travel & Tourism Exhibition 2023

12-15 April 2023

TUYAP Fair, Convention and Congress Center Turkey emittistanbul.com

Social Media Strategies Summit - First Responders 2023

12-15 April 2023

Online socialmediastrategiessu mmit.com

VITM Hanoi 2023

13-16 April 2023

International Exhibition Center (ICE Hanoi) Vietnam vitm.vn

Passenger Terminal Expo 2023

14-16 April 2023

Netherlands passengerterminalexpo.com

BITAC® Operations 2023

16-18 April 2023

Rancho Bernardo Inn United States bitac.net

International Alpine Travel Market (IATM) 2023

16-18 April 2023

Austria istm.co.uk

Connections Wellbeing

2023

16-19 April 2023

The Farm at San Benito Philippines weareconnections.com

m&i Europe Spring 2023

16-19 April 2023

Turkey mi-forums.com

Africa ShowcaseNordics 2023

17-21 April 2023

Global africashowcase.travel

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Hangzhou 2023

18 April 2023

China chinaute.com/en/index.aspx

Canadian Hotel Investment Conference 2023

18-19 April 2023

Fairmont Royal York Canada hotelinvest.ca

Caravan Camping Holiday SupershowNSW 2023

18-23 April 2023

Rosehill Gardens Racecourse Australia supershow.com.au

CLIA Cruise360 2023

18-23 April 2023 United States cruise360.org

Meaningful Travel Summit - Tourism Cares with Norway 2023

18-23 April 2023

Norway tourismcares.org

Kazakhstan International Tourism Fair (KITF) 2023

19-21 April 2023

Atakent International Exhibition Centre Kazakhstan kitf.kz/en

AERO FriedrichshafenThe Global Show for General Aviation 2023

19-22 April 2023

Germany aero-expo.com

Business Travel Show America 2023

20 April 2023

Online businesstravelnews.com/ Business-Travel-Events

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Shenzhen

2023

20 April 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

eMerge Americas 2023

20-21 April 2023

Miami Beach Convention Center

United States emergeamericas.com

ITF SLOVAKIATOUR

2023

20-23 April 2023

Fair ground Incheba Expo Bratislava Slovakia incheba.sk

m&i Private Europe 2023

23-26 April 2023

Spain mi-forums.com

MYBA Charter Show

2023

24-27 April 2023

OneOcean Port Vell Barcelona Spain mybashow.com

Deluxe Travel Market

Romania 2023

25 April 2023

Romania deluxetravelmarket.com

RDA Group Travel Expo 2023

25-26 April 2023

Germany rda-expo.de/koeln

IATA World Cargo Symposium 2023

25-27 April 2023

Hong Kong iata.org

FHA-Food & Beverage 2023

25-28 April 2023

Singapore Expo & Suntec

Singapore

Singapore foodnhotelasia.com

UNWTO World Sports

Tourism Congress 2023

26 April 2023

Croatia unwto.org/world-sportstourism-congress

CAPA Americas Aviation & LCCs Summit 2023

26-27 April 2023

United States centreforaviation.com/ events

ProcureCon Travel 2023

26-27 April 2023

Hyatt Regency Indian Wells

United States procurecontravel. wbresearch.com

ITB India 2023

26-28 April 2023

Jio World Convention Centre India itb-india.com

Deluxe Travel Market Poland 2023

27 April 2023

Poland deluxetravelmarket.com

Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2023

28-30 April 2023

Baku City Circuit Azerbaijan formula1.com

World Travel Awards Middle East Gala Ceremony 2023

30 April 2023

Atlantis The Royal United Arab Emirates worldtravelawards.com

Global Meeting & Incentive Travel Exchange (GMITE) 2023

30 April - 3 May 2023

Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina

United States incentivetravel exchange.com

BTN CALENDAR

May 2023

ATM - Arabian Travel Market 2023

1-4 May 2023

Dubai World Trade Centre

United Arab Emirates arabiantravelmarket. wtm.com

F&B @ Sea 2023

2-3 May 2023

Miami Beach Convention Center United States seatradecruiseglobal.com /en/FandB

ILTM Arabia 2023

2-3 May 2023

United Arab Emirates iltm.com/Arabia

ASTA Global Convention 2023

2-4 May 2023

Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino Puerto Rico astaglobalconvention.org

HD Expo + Conference 2023

2-4 May 2023

Mandalay Bay United States hdexpo.com

Australasian Hotel Industry Conference and Exhibition (AHICE) 2023

3-4 May 2023

William Magarey Room, Adelaide Oval Australia ahice.com.au

DigiMarCon Chicago 2023

3-4 May 2023

Solider Field Stadium United States digimarconchicago.com

Seoul International Tourism Industry Fair (SITIF) 2023

4-7 May 2023

COEX Convention Center, Korea

Korea, South en.kotfa.net

Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix 2023

5-7 May 2023

Miami International Autodrome United States formula1.com

Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) - Saudi Arabia 2023

7-9 May 2023

Al Faisaliah Hotel Saudi Arabia futurehospitalitysummit.c om

TFest 2023

7-11 May 2023

Mexico travel-fest.com

Business Travel Tech Talk - Chicago 2023

8 May 2023

The Loews Chicago Hotel United States btngroup conferences.com

Business Travel Trends and Forecasts - Atlanta 2023

8 May 2023

Renaissance Atlanta Waverly United States businesstraveltrends.com

Business Aviation Safety Summit (BASS) 2023

8-9 May 2023

Sheraton New Orleans United States flightsafety.org

Australian Tourism Exchange 2023

8-11 May 2023

Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre

Australia tourism.australia.com

INDABA 2023

8-11 May 2023

Durban ICC South Africa indaba-southafrica.co.za

AdventureELEVATE 2023

9-11 May 2023

Portland United States adventuretravel.biz/ events/adventureelevate

Airport Show, Dubai 2023

9-11 May 2023

DWTC, Dubai United Arab Emirates theairportshow.com

Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2023

9-11 May 2023

Barbados chtamarketplace.com

FT Future of the Car summit 2023

9-11 May 2023

United Kingdom car.live.ft.com

Routes Europe 2023

9-11 May 2023

Poland routesonline.com/events/ 241/routes-europe-2023

ILTM Latin America 2023

9-12 May 2023

Brazil iltm.com/latinamerica/en-gb

ABTA: Travel Law Seminar 2023

10-11 May 2023

Deloitte, 2 New St Square United Kingdom abta.com/events/travellaw-seminar

Customer Service & Experience 2023

10-11 May 2023

San Diego Mission Bay Resort

United States events.incite-group.com/ customerservice

Int'l Wellness Tourism Expo 2023

10-12 May 2023

Tokyo Big Sight

Japan wellnesstourismexpo.jp/en-gb.html

HSMAI ROC Asia Pacific 2023

11-12 May 2023

Sands Expo & Exhibition Center Singapore Singapore

hsmaiasia.org/event/reve nue-optimizationconference-asia-pacific

CLIA Conference 2023

12 May 2023

United Kingdom cruiseexperts.org

International Conference on Cultural and Tourism Innovation (ICCTI) 2023

15-16 May 2023

United Kingdom waset.org

International Conference on Food in Tourism 2023

15-16 May 2023

United Kingdom waset.org/food-intourism-conference-inmay-2023-in-london

International Conference on Tourism and Hospitality - Montreal 2023

15-16 May 2023

Canada waset.org/tourism-andhospitality-conferencein-may-2023-in-montreal

IHIF - International Hotel Investment Forum 2023

15-17 May 2023

Germany ihif.com

We Are Africa 2023

15-18 May 2023

Cape Town Stadium

South Africa

weareafricatravel.com

Adjacent Spaces 2023

16 May 2023

The Pullman Hotel Germany adjacentspaces.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Wuhan 2023

16 May 2023

China china-ute.com/en/ Advertising Week Europe 2023

16-18 May 2023

Picturehouse Central United Kingdom advertisingweek.com

IATA Aviation Energy Forum 2023

16-18 May 2023

Hyatt Regency Bellevue United States iata.org

IGHC Ground Handling Conference 2023

16-18 May 2023

Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center United Arab Emirates iata.org

UNWTO Executive Council 2023

16-18 May 2023

Dominican Republic unwto.org/events/118executive-council

ABTA: Travel Marketing Conference 2023

17-18 May 2023

United Kingdom abta.com/events/travelmarketing-conference

Social Media Strategies Summit - Public Agencies & Government 2023

17-18 May 2023

Online socialmediastrategiessu mmit.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Changsha 2023

18 May 2023

China chinaute.com/en/index.aspx

The Hotel & Hospitality Show 2023

18-20 May 2023

Gallagher Convention Centre South Africa thehotelshowafrica.com

Formula 1 Italy Grand Prix 2023

19-21 May 2023

Italy formula1.com

WITS Travel Creator Summit 2023

19-21 May 2023

Caribe Hilton, 1 San Geronimo Street Puerto Rico witsummit.com

Women in Travel Summit (WITS) - Puerto Rico 2023

19-21 May 2023

Puerto Rico witsummit.com

National Restaurant Association Show 2023

20-23 May 2023

McCormick Place United States show.restaurant.org

The Advantage Conference 2023

20-23 May 2023

Melia Villaitana Spain advantage conference.co.uk

International Pow Wow 2023

20-24 May 2023

Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center United States ipw.com

Snow Travel ExpoMelbourne 2023

21 May 2023

Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre

Australia

snowtravelexpo.com.au

SITE Nite Europe 2023

22 May 2023

Hilton Frankfurt City Centre

Germany

siteglobal.com/event/site -nite-europe

Caribbean Hotel & Resort Investment Summit (CHRIS) 2023

22-23 May 2023

Loews Coral Gables Hotel United States chrisconference.com

CTC Hong Kong Corporate Travel Summit 2023

23 May 2023

Hong Kong hk23.corporatetravelcom munity.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Chongqing 2023

23 May 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

DMIEXPO 2023

23-24 May 2023

Israel dmiexpo.com

FTE Ancillary & Retailing 2023

23-25 May 2023

Dublin RDS Ireland futuretravelexperience.co m/fte-ancillary

FTE EMEA 2023

23-25 May 2023

Dublin RDS Ireland futuretravelexperience.co m/fte-emea

IMEX 2023

23-25 May 2023

Messe Frankfurt Germany www.imex-frankfurt.com

The Hotel Show Dubai 2023

23-25 May 2023

Dubai World Trade Centre | DWTC

United Arab Emirates thehotelshow.com

The Leisure Show 2023

23-25 May 2023

Dubai World Trade Centre United Arab Emirates theleisureshow.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Ji'nan 2023

25 May 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

DigiMarCon Houston 2023

25-26 May 2023

JW Marriott Houston by The Galleria Hotel United States digimarconhouston.com

Formula 1 Grand Prix De Monaco 2023

26-28 May 2023

Monaco formula1.com

Snow Travel ExpoSydney 2023

28 May 2023

International Convention Centre (ICC), Darling Harbour Australia snowtravelexpo.com.au

HOTELEX Shanghai 2023

29 May - 1 June 2023

National Exhibition and Convention Center China

www.hotelex.cn

BTN CALENDAR

June 2023

Global Travel Marketplace 2023

1-3 June 2023

The Diplomat Beach Resort United States gtmflagship.com

Formula 1 Spainsh Grand Prix 2023

2-4 June 2023

Circuit de BarcelonaCatalunya Spain formula1.com

KILIFAIR 2023

2-4 June 2023

Magereza Ground Tanzania kilifair-tanzania.com

AAAE Conference & Exposition 2023

3-5 June 2023

United States aaae.org/aaaeden

CNS Partnership Conference 2023

4-6 June 2023

JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa United States iata.org/en/events/cnspartnership-conference

IATA: Annual General Meeting 2023

4-6 June 2023

Turkey iata.org/en/events/agm

NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference 2023

4-6 June 2023

New York Marriott Marquis United States sps.nyu.edu

Connections Luxury Europe 2023

4-7 June 2023

Spain

weareconnections.com

PROUD Experiences 2023

5-7 June 2023

Fairmont Century Plaza United States proudexperiences.com

Africa Showcase - East Africa 2023

5-9 June 2023

Kenya africashowcase.travel

FUTR Summit - Europe 2023

6 June 2023

QEll Centre Westminster United Kingdom futr.today

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Nanjing 2023

6 June 2023

China chinaute.com/en/index.aspx

Aircraft Interiors Expo 2023

6-8 June 2023

Hamburg Messe Germany aircraftinteriorsexpo.com

m&i Healthcare Europe 2023

6-8 June 2023

Netherlands mi-forums.com

Skift Short-Term Rental Summit 2023

7 June 2023

United States live.skift.com/short-termrental-summit

Boutique Hotel Investment Conference 2023

7-8 June 2023

United States bllanewyork.com

Safety Forum 2023

7-8 June 2023

EUROCONTROL

Belgium flightsafety.org

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Zhengzhou 2023

8 June 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

Ascend 2023

11-14 June 2023

Caribe Royale Resort United States ascendusers conference.com

Business Travel Tech Talk - Frankfurt 2023

12 June 2023

Germany btngroup conferences.com

Strategic Meetings

Summit - New York 2023

12 June 2023

United States businesstravelnews.com/ business-travel-events

Arival Activate - Bangkok 2023

12-14 June 2023

Thailand arivalevent.com

BITAC® Casino Resorts 2023

12-14 June 2023

Red Rock Resort United States bitac.net

PhoCusWright Europe 2023

12-14 June 2023

Spain phocuswrighteurope.com

IATA Slot Conference 2023

13-15 June 2023

The Convention Centre Dublin Ireland www.iata.org

TTRA Annual International Conference 2023

13-15 June 2023

United States ttra.com/conference

World Travel Awards

Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2023

14 June 2023

Kenya worldtravelawards.com

Social Media Strategies

Summit - Virtual Conference 2023

14-15 June 2023

Online

socialmediastrategiessu mmit.com

AviaDev Africa 2023

14-16 June 2023

Radisson Blu Hotel

Nairobi Upper Hill Kenya aviationdevelop.com

DRT Show Shanghai 2023

14-16 June 2023

SWEECC China drtexpo.com/shanghai

Bali & Beyond Travel Fair (BBTF) 2023

14-17 June 2023

Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center Indonesia bbtf.or.id

ICVTOTTA - Montreal 2023

15-16 June 2023

Canada waset.org/virtualtourism-tourismtechnology-and-applicati ons-conference-in-june2023-in-montreal

International Conference on Tourism and Hospitality - Venice 2023

15-16 June 2023

Italy waset.org/tourism-andhospitality-conferencein-june-2023-in-venice

ITE Hong Kong 2023

15-18 June 2023

Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre

Hong Kong

www.itehk.com

Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada 2023

16-18 June 2023

Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve Canada formula1.com

Destination WorkshopLake Geneva 2023

18-19 June 2023

The Abbey Resort United States siteglobal.com/event/des tination-workshop-lakegeneva-wi

LATA Expo 2023

19-21 June 2023

Battersea Evolution United Kingdom lataexpo.travel

FIEXPO Latin America

2023

19-22 June 2023

Panama fiexpolatinamerica.com

ILTM Asia Pacific 2023

19-22 June 2023

Marina Bay Sands Singapore iltm.com/asia-pacific/ en-gb

Paris Air Show 2023

19-25 June 2023

Le Bourget France siae.fr/en

IATA Focus Africa 2023

20-21 June 2023

Skylight Hotel Ethiopia iata.org

ASTA Legislative Day 2023

20-22 June 2023

United States web.asta.org/imis/LegDa y/Home/LegDay/Home.a spx

Luxury Travel Advisor's ULTRA Summit 2023

20-22 June 2023

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess United States ltaultrasummit.com

Business Travel Summit

2023

20-23 June 2023

Pebble Beach United States btngroupconferences .com/btsummit

ABTA: Travel Matters

2023

21 June 2023

National Gallery, Trafalgar Square United Kingdom abta.com/events/travelmatters

Digital Marketing World Forum - Global 2023

21-22 June 2023

Business Design Centre United Kingdom digitalmarketingconference.com/global

PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023

21-23 June 2023

Kuching Malaysia pata.org/patadestination-experienceforum-and-mart-2023

m&i Europe Summer 2023

25-28 June 2023

Norway mi-forums.com

Romance Travel Forum 2023

25-29 June 2023

Secrets Moxche Mexico romancetravelforum.com

Experience Africa 2023

26-28 June 2023

Chelsea Football Club United Kingdom experienceafrica.travel

HITEC North America 2023

26-29 June 2023

Metro Totonto Convention Centre

Canada hftp.org/hitec

HSMAI ROC Americas

Commercial Strategy Week 2023

26-29 June 2023

Canada

www.hsmai.org

CTC Singapore Corporate Travel Summit 2023

27 June 2023

Singapore hk23.corporatetravel community.com

IATA Wings of Change

Americas 2023

27-28 June 2023

Mexico iata.org

Business Travel Show

Europe 2023

28-29 June 2023

ExCeL London United Kingdom businesstravelshow.com

The Meetings ShowLondon 2023

28-29 June 2023

ExCeL London United Kingdom themeetingsshow.com

TravelTech Show 2023

28-29 June 2023

ExCeL London United Kingdom traveltech-show.com

Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix 2023

30 June - 2 July 2023

Red Bull Ring

Austria formula1.com

July 2023

ICVTOTTA - Prague 2023

3-4 July 2023

Czech Republic waset.org/virtualtourism-tourismtechnology-and-applicati ons-conference-in-july2023-in-prague

International Conference on Tourism and Hospitality - Ottawa 2023

3-4 July 2023

Canada waset.org/tourism-andhospitality-conferencein-july-2023-in-ottawa

International Conference on Tourism and Hospitality - Singapore 2023

3-4 July 2023

Singapore waset.org/tourism-andhospitality-conferencein-july-2023-in-singapore

Outlook Forum 2023

3 July - 3 August 2023

SAFE Credit Union Convention Center United States industry.visitcalifornia. com/events

Caravan Camping Lifestyle Expo - Illawarra 2023

7-9 July 2023

Kembla Grange Racecourse Australia caravanexpo.com

Formula 1 Aramco British Grand Prix 2023

7-9 July 2023

United Kingdom formula1.com

BITAC® Purchasing & Design East 2023

9-11 July 2023

Omni Amelia Island United States bitac.net

BTN CALENDAR

Arizona Governor's Conference on Tourism 2023

10-12 July 2023

JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa

United States azgcot.com

Congressional Summit on Travel & Tourism 2023

10-13 July 2023

United States

southeasttourism.org/ congressional-summit

Asia America Trade Show 2023

11-13 July 2023

Miami Airport & Convention Center (MACC) United States asiaamericashow.com

Global Travel Marketplace West 2023

11-13 July 2023

Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa United States gtmwest.com

Miami Airport Convention Center 2023

11-13 July 2023

Miami Beach Convention Center Hall A United States asiaamericashow.com

SITE Incentive Summit Europe 2023

12-15 July 2023

Slovenia siteglobal.com/event /incentive-summiteurope-ise

The Americas Lodging Investment SummitSummer Update 2023

13 July 2023

The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta United States burba.com/ alissummerupdate

TTF Kolkata 2023

14-16 July 2023

Netaji Indoor Stadium & Khudiram Anushilan Kendra India ttfotm.com

International Conference on Tourism and Hospitality - Tokyo 2023

17-18 July 2023

Japan

waset.org/tourism-andhospitality-conferencein-july-2023-in-tokyo

The Americas Lodging Investment SummitSummer Update 2023

18 July 2023

Hilton Boston Back Bay United States burba.com/ alissummerupdate

FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023

20 July - 20 August 2023

Australia fifa.com/ womensworldcup

Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix 2023

21-23 July 2023

Hungaroring Hungary formula1.com

Africa ShowcaseAustralia & New Zealand 2023

23-28 July 2023

Australia africashowcase.travel

International Conference on Tourism and Hospitality - Vienna

2023

24-25 July 2023

Austria

waset.org/tourism-andhospitality-conferencein-july-2023-in-vienna

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2023

24-30 July 2023

Wittman Regional Airport United States eaa.org/en/airventure/ eaa-airventure-tickets

Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix 2023

28-30 July 2023

Circuit de SpaFrancorchamps Belgium formula1.com

August 2023

TTF Hyderabad 2023

2-3 August 2023

India ttfotm.com

HSMAI ROC Brazil 2023

8 August 2023

Brazil

www.hsmai.org

Hotel Data Conference 2023

9-11 August 2023

Omni Nashville Hotel United States www.hoteldataconferenc e.com

Adventure Travel Film Festival - Cotswolds 2023

11-13 August 2023

Hathrope Castle United Kingdom adventuretravel filmfestival.com/ cotswolds-festival

Virtuoso Travel Week 2023

12-18 August 2023

United States virtuosomeetings. virtuoso.com

GBTA Convention 2023

13-15 August 2023

United States convention.gbta.org

TakeOff North America 2023

13-15 August 2023

Atlantic City United States routesonline.com/events/ 245/takeoff-northamerica-2023

Digital Travel Summit APAC 2023

14-16 August 2023

Equarius Hotel Singapore digitaltravelapac. wbresearch.com

International Conference on Tourism and Hospitality - Tokyo 2023

16-17 August 2023

Japan waset.org/tourism-andhospitality-conferencein-august-2023-in-tokyo

HOTELEX Chengdu 2023

16-18 August 2023

Chengdu Century City International Covention & Exhibition Centre China en.hotelex.cn/ chengdu-exhibition

International Ski Travel Market (ISTM) 2023

16-18 August 2023

Gurgl Carat Austria istm.co.uk

Site Classic 2023

16-19 August 2023

United States siteglobal.com

Caribbean Meeting & Incentive Travel Exchange (CMITE) 2023

21-24 August 2023

Secrets Wild Orchid & St. James Montego Bay Jamaica caribbean.incentivetravel exchange.com

TTF

Ahmedabad/Gandhinaga r 2023

23-25 August 2023

India ttfotm.com

Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix 2023

25-27 August 2023

Netherlands formula1.com

International Conference on Sustainable Tourism Management (ICSTM) 2023

25-27 August 2023

Denmark icstm.org

ASTA Caribbean Showcase 2023

28-31 August 2023

Turks and Caicos Islands asta.org

HICAP Australia New Zealand 2023

30 August - 1 September

2023

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour and the Offices of Ashurst Australia anz.hicapconference.com

m&i Europe Summer 2023

30 August - 2 September

2023

Cyprus mi-forums.com

CAPA Latin America

Aviation & LCCs Summit 2023

31 August - 1 September

2023

Mexico

centreforaviation.com/ events

September 2023

Formula 1 Gran Premio D'Italia 2023

1-3 September 2023

Autodromo Nazionale Monza

Italy

formula1.com

Business Travel Tech Talk - San Francisco 2023

4 September 2023

United States btngroup conferences.com

Business Travel Trends and Forecasts - Chicago 2023

4 September 2023

United States btngroup conferences.com

World Travel Awards

Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony 2023

6 September 2023

Vietnam worldtravelawards.com

Hospitality Philippines Conference (HPC) 2023

6-7 September 2023

Marriott Manila Philippines hospitalityasia.com/hpc2023

Seatrade Europe 2023

6-8 September 2023

Hamburg Messe Germany seatrade-europe.com

Cruise360 Australasia 2023

7 September 2023

Royal International Convention Centre Australia cruising.org.au/CLIAEvents/Cruise360Australasia

ITE HCMC 2023

7-9 September 2023

Saigon Exhibition & Conference Centre (SECC)

Vietnam itehcmc.travel

Rugby World Cup 2023

8 September -

21 October 2023

France rugbyworldcup.com/ france2023

Retirement Lifestyle & Travel Expo 2023

9-10 September 2023

Ellerslie Events Centre, Ellerslie Racecourse New Zealand retirementlifestyle expo.co.nz

Business Travel Trends and ForecastsPhiladelphia 2023

11 September 2023

United States businesstravelnews.com/ Business-Travel-Events

The Annual Hotel Conference (AHC) 2023

11-12 September 2023

Manchester Central Convention Complex United Kingdom theahc.co.uk

International LGBTQ+ Travel Association Convention 2023

11-13 September 2023

Global Convention Puerto Rico iglta.org

Adventure Travel World Summit 2023

11-14 September 2023

Japan

adventuretravel.biz/event s/summit

Africa Showcase - North America 2023

11-20 September 2023 United States africashowcase.travel

IBTM Americas 2023

13-14 September 2023 Centro Citibanamex, CDMX Mexico ibtmamericas.com

CAPA Australia Pacific Aviation Summit 2023

14-15 September 2023

Australia centreforaviation.com/ events

DigiMarCon Europe 2023

14-15 September 2023

Johan Cruyff Arena Netherlands digimarconeurope.com

ITIC Botswana Tourism Investment Summit 2023

14-15 September 2023

Botswana investbotswana.itic.uk/ itic-bostwana-tourisminvestment-summit-2023

Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2023

15-17 September 2023

Marina Bay Street Circuit Singapore formula1.com

Business Travel Trends and Forecasts - Toronto 2023

18 September 2023

United States btngroup conferences.com

ILTM North America 2023

18-21 September 2023

Baha Mar, The Bahamas Bahamas, The iltm.com/en/ northamerica/home

IDEEA Hospitality Investment Forum 2023

19-20 September 2023

Prague Marriott Hotel Czech Republic ideea-forum.com

FTE Global 2023

19-21 September 2023

Long Beach Convention Center

United States

futuretravelexperience.co m/fte-global

BTN CALENDAR

Global Safety & Operations Conference (GSOC) 2023

19-21 September 2023

Vietnam iata.org

Skift Global Forum New York 2023

19-21 September 2023 United States forum.skift.com

Formula 1 Lenovo Japanese Grand Prix 2023

22-24 September 2023

Suzuka International Racing Course Japan formula1.com

GS23 2023

24-25 September 2023

Spain us10.campaignarchive.com/?u=0c873b 07b6f9e16ea297cd3c9&i d=4562532669

Future Hospitality Summit 2023

25-27 September 2023

Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island

United Arab Emirates futurehospitality summit.com

ASTA Travel Masters 2023

26-28 September 2023

St. Andrews Golf Club United Kingdom asta.org

IT&CM Asia and CTW

Asia-Pacific 2023

26-28 September 2023

Thailand corporatetravel world.com/apac

IT&CMA and CTW 2023

26-28 September 2023

Bangkok Convention Centre Thailand itcmchina.com

SPATEC Fall 2023

26-29 September 2023

Eau Palm Beach United States spatecevents.com/ northamerica-fall

Private Luxury - Middle East 2023

26-30 September 2023

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel And Villas

United Arab Emirates privateluxuryforums.com

World Tourism Day 2023

27 September 2023

Global unwto.org

BLTM Delhi 2023

29-30 September 2023 India ttfotm.com

TIME 2023

29 September -

1 October 2023

Rennaissance Uluwatu Resort & Spa Indonesia time2023.com

October 2023

M&I Americas 2023

1-4 October 2023 United States mi-forums.com

World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony 2023

1 October 2023

Batumi, Georgia worldtravelawards.com

innovate 2023

2 October 2023

Convene 225 Liberty St United States btninnovate.com

Outbound Travel Roadshow Southeast Asia 2023

2-6 October 2023

Global otrsea.com

Horticultural Expo 2023

2 October 2023 - 28

March 2024

Qatar dohaexpo2023.gov.qa

World Spa Awards Gala Ceremony 2023

3 October 2023 Dubai worldspaawards.com

DigiMarCon India 2023

4-5 October 2023

Hyatt Regency Gurgaon India digimarconeurope.com

Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix 2023

6-8 October 2023

Losail International Circuit Qatar formula1.com

Resort & Residential Hospitality Forum 2023

9-11 October 2023

EPIC SANA LISBOA Portugal randrforum.com

Arival - Orlando 2023

9-12 October 2023

Gaylord Palms United States arivalevent.com

Africa ShowcaseSoutheast Asia 2023

9-13 October 2023

Singapore africashowcase.travel/ markets/southeast-asia

ICC Cricket World Cup 2023

9 October26 November 2023 India cricketworldcup.com

m&i Luxe 2023

11-14 October 2023

Montenegro mi-forums.com

World Travel Tech Awards 2023

15 October 2023

Atlantis The Royal United Arab Emirates worldtraveltech awards.com

SITE Young Leaders Conference 2023

15-16 October 2023

United States siteglobal.com/event/site -young-leadersconference

World Routes 2023

15-17 October 2023

Turkey routesonline.com/events/ 244/routes-world-2023

Business Travel Trends and ForecastsMinneapolis 2023

16 October 2023

United States businesstravelnews.com/ Business-Travel-Events

Site Nite North America 2023

16 October 2023

United States siteglobal.com

GITEX GLOBAL 2023

16-20 October 2023

Dubai World Trade Centre United Arab Emirates gitex.com

Africa Showcase - Latin America 2023

16-24 October 2023

Argentina africashowcase.travel

World Travel Awards

Middle East Gala Ceremony 2023

17 October 2023

Atlantis The Royal Dubai worldtravelawards.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Beijing 2023

17 October 2023

China china-ute.com/en

IMEX America 2023

17-19 October 2023

Mandalay Bay United States imexamerica.com

Advertising Week New York 2023

17-20 October 2023

The Market Line United States advertisingweek.com

FUTR Summit - Asia 2023

18-19 October 2023

Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, Singapore futr.today

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Shanghai 2023

19 October 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

Caravan Camping Lifestyle Expo - Canberra 2023

20-22 October 2023

Exhibition Park Australia caravanexpo.com/ canberra

Formula 1 Lenovo United States Grand Prix 2023

20-22 October 2023

Circuit of The Americas United Kingdom formula1.com

BITAC® Purchasing & Design West 2023

22-24 October 2023

Arizona Biltmore United States bitac.net

MCE South Europe 2023

22-24 October 2023

Spain europecongress.com

m&i Europe Autumn 2023

22-25 October 2023

Lake Como Italy mi-forums.com

World Golf Awards Gala Ceremony 2023

23 October 2023

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi worldgolfawards.com

HICAP Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific 2023

23-25 October 2023

Fairmont Singapore & Swissotel The Stamford Singapore www.HICAP conference.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Chengdu 2023

24 October 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

ITB Asia 2023

25-27 October 2023

Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands Singapore www.itb-asia.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Guangzhou 2023

26 October 2023

China chinaute.com/en/index.aspx

Formula 1 Gran Premio De La Ciudad de México 2023

27-29 October 2023

Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez Mexico formula1.com

CTC Shanghai Corporate Travel Summit 2023

30 October 2023

China hk23.corporatetravelcom munity.com

November 2023

WTTC Global Summit 2023

1-3 November 2023

Rwanda www.wttc.org

CAPA Asia Aviation Summit & Sustainability Awards 2023

2-3 November 2023

Malaysia centreforaviation.com/ev ents

Global European Marketplace (GEM) 2023

2-3 November 2023

United Kingdom etoa.org/events/gem

Formula 1 Rolex Grande Prêmio de São Paulo 2023

3-5 November 2023

Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace Brazil formula1.com

Strategic Meetings Summit - Chicago 2023

6 November 2023

United States businesstravelnews.com/ business-travel-events

World Travel Market 2023

6-8 November 2023

ExCeL London United Kingdom wtm.com/london

Business Travel Tech Talk - London 2023

7 November 2023

United Kingdom btngroup conferences.com

ASTA Premium Business Summit 2023

7-9 November 2023

United States asta.org/ premiumbusinesssummit

CLIA Expedition Showcase 2023

7-10 November 2023

Online cruising.org.au/ CLIA-Events/CLIAExpedition-Showcase

Advertising Week LATAM 2023

8-10 November 2023

Online advertisingweek.com

Skift Aviation Forum 2023

9 November 2023

United States live.skift.com/skiftaviation-forum

Adventure Travel Show 2023

11-12 November 2023

Excel London United Kingdom adventureshow.com

ICCA Congress 2023

12-15 November 2023

Thailand iccaworld.com

Africa ShowcaseMitteleuropa 2023

13-17 November 2023

Global africashowcase.travel

DigiMarCon Las Vegas 2023

16-17 November 2023

Wynn Las Vegas United States digimarconlasvegas.com

FUTR Summit - North America 2023

16-17 November 2023

United States futr.today

Formula 1 Heineken

Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix 2023

17-19 November 2023

United States formula1.com

BTN CALENDAR

Business Travel Trends and Forecasts - New York 2023

20 November 2023

United States btngroup conferences.com

ETOA European Travel Marketplace - Asia

Pacific 2023

21 November 2023

Online etoa.org

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Taiyuan 2023

21 November 2023

China china-ute.com/en

World MICE Awards 2023

21 November 2023

Qatar worldmiceawards.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Xi'an 2023

23 November 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

CTC Sydney Corporate Travel Summit 2023

23-24 November 2023

Australia hk23.corporatetravel community.com

Formula 1 Etihad Airways

Abu Dhabi 2023

24-26 November 2023

Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island

United Arab Emirates formula1.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Fuzhou 2023

28 November 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

CAPA World Aviation Summit & Awards for Excellence 2023

28-29 November 2023

United Arab Emirates was19.capaevents.com

IBTM World 2023

28-30 November 2023

Spain ibtmworld.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Kunming 2023

30 November 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

COP 28 - 2023

30 November - 12

December 2023

United Arab Emirates unfccc.int

December 2023

ILTM Cannes 2023

4-7 December 2023

Palais des Festivals et des Congrès France iltm.com/cannes/home

THE BEAT LIVE 2023

5 December 2023

United States thebeatliveevent.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Hangzhou 2023

5 December 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

Business Travel Trends and Forecasts - Dallas 2023

6 December 2023

United States btngroup conferences.com

m&i Luxe 2023

6-9 December 2023

Mexico mi-forums.com

Universal Tourism Exhibition - Shenzhen 2023

7 December 2023

China china-ute.com/en/

World Cruise Awards

Gala Ceremony 2023

8 December 2023 worldcruiseawards.com

World Culinary Awards

Gala Ceremony 2023

9 December 2023 worldculinaryawards.com

Business Travel Trends and Forecasts - San Francisco 2023

11 December 2023

United States btngroup conferences.com

Skift Global Forum East 2023

12-14 December 2023

United Arab Emirates live.skift.com/ skift-global-forum-east2023

HOTELEX Shenzhen 2023

14-16 December 2023

Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center

China www.hotelex.cn

January 2024

CES 2024

9-12 January 2024

United States ces.tech

ALIS Law 2024

21-22 January 2024

Courtyard/Residence Inn

United States burba.com/ALISlaw

The Americas Lodging Investment Summit 2024

22-24 January 2024

JW Marriott/Ritz-Carlton United States alisconference.com

February 2024

NBAA Leadership Conference 2024

6-8 February 2024

United States nbaa.org

OTM Mumbai 2024

8-10 February 2024

Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai India

otm.co.in

Conventa 2024

21-22 February 2024

Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre Slovenia www.conventa.si

Hungexpo 2024

22-25 February 2024

Hungexpo Budapest Fair Center

Hungary

utazas.hungexpo.hu/en

March 2024

HOSTEX 2024

3-5 March 2024

Sandton Convention Centre

South Africa hostex.co.za

ITB Berlin 2024

5-7 March 2024

Messe Berlin Germany itb-berlin.com

HOSTELCO 2024

12-14 March 2024

Recinto Gran Via Spain hostelco.com

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