Travel Industry News Page 289
IHG Hotels & Resorts partner with SEDCO Capital to strengthen lifestyle offering in Jeddah
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement with an investment fund managed by SEDCO Capital, a global multi-asset management and advisory firm, to launch Hotel Indigo Grand Square Jeddah. The 150-key lifestyle hotel marks the first collaboration between the global hospitality group and the Saudi real estate investment fund. Hotel Indigo Grand Square Jeddah will form a central component of the Grand Square mixed-use development on King Abdulaziz Road in Jeddah. The project is being developed through a strategic partnership via the fund, which brings together Ajdan Real Estate Development Company, MASIC Investment Company, and SEDCO Capital. It aims to introduce a new model of contemporary living in Jeddah by integrating hospitality, retail, and office spaces within one destination.
Hilton and Explora Journeys Announce Luxury Ocean Travel Partnership
Today, Hilton and Explora Journeys – the privately owned and ultra elegant ocean travel brand of the MSC Group – announce an exclusive collaboration. As part of this exciting new travel offering, Hilton debuts Hilton Honors Adventures, an extension of Hilton’s award-winning guest loyalty program focused on immersive, adventure-driven travel.
Curio Collection by Hilton Strengthens its London Roots with The BoTree Signing
Hilton has announced a stylish new addition to its Curio Collection in the UK with the signing of The BoTree London, Curio Collection by Hilton. Set in the heart of Marylebone, the hotel is the latest addition to Hilton’s expanding lifestyle portfolio and builds on its long-standing partnership with Shiva Hotels.
Hilton Expands Flagship Brand in India with Debut in Hyderabad
Hilton has announced the opening of Hilton Hyderabad Genome Valley Resort & Spa, marking the company’s entry into Hyderabad. Strategically located in India’s Biotech Hub, the urban resort blends Hilton’s vibrant spaces with an architectural style that complements the landscape and incorporates sustainable design elements. Developed in partnership with C.K.R Resorts Pvt. Ltd., Hilton Hyderabad Genome Valley Resort & Spa marks a significant milestone in Hilton’s robust South Asia expansion, introducing the brand’s world-class hospitality to one of India’s fastest-growing cities. With a GDP of USD 94 billion and rising infrastructure and global investment, Hyderabad is experiencing heightened demand for premium hospitality that caters to both business and leisure travelers.
HKIA Voted “World’s Leading Airport for Customer Experience” at World Travel Awards
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has been voted the “World’s Leading Airport for Customer Experience”, as the airport won an array of accolades in the prestigious 32nd World Travel Awards, in recognition of the airport’s relentless efforts to enhance passenger facilities and provide excellent services.
The Ultimate Maldives Romance Guide: Where to Stay, Swim, Dine & Dream Together
The Maldives remains the world’s ultimate destination for romance, where overwater villas, starlit dinners and crystal-blue lagoons create the perfect setting for couples to reconnect. DW Travel’s experts have handpicked the most extraordinary resorts—each offering its own blend of seclusion, luxury and unforgettable experiences—to help you plan a truly personalised escape in paradise.
Fermata Announces Its December 20 Opening
A New Landmark for Refined Coastal Hospitality in Santa Teresa. Santa Teresa has entered a new moment. Its long golden beach, restless surf and calm forest backdrop have attracted travelers who seek privacy and authentic connection. On December 20 Fermata will open its doors and introduce a new chapter for the region. The property blends luxury, surf culture and family comfort into a unified vision shaped for the modern traveler. It is a thoughtful response to the rising demand for elevated sanctuaries that honor Santa Teresa’s natural charm while offering meaningful experiences.
Aleph Hospitality and Hilton announce Tapestry Collection by Hilton Hotel in Dammam
Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hospitality management company in the Middle East and Africa, has secured the Tapestry Collection by Hilton brand for an upcoming 84-key hotel in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, owned by AREA Investment and Real Estate. This marks Aleph Hospitality’s third Tapestry Collection by Hilton property under management, further strengthening the company’s partnership with global hospitality company Hilton and expanding its footprint in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Melbourne transforms bag drop with Amadeus seamless solution
Passengers at Melbourne Airport will benefit from a unique side-loading design that makes it easier to load bags and manoeuvre large items like wheelchairs, pushchairs and trollies
VIRGIN ATLANTIC LAUNCHES THE FUTURE OF TRAVEL PLANNING: YOUR PERSONAL CONCIERGE IS HERE
Virgin Atlantic has today unveiled the full rollout of its innovative Virgin Atlantic Concierge across both the Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Atlantic Holidays websites, giving every guest access to an intelligent, always-on travel companion that redefines how journeys are planned and booked. Powered by OpenAI and built in partnership with Tomoro teams, Virgin Atlantic’s digital Concierge combines the warmth and personality of Virgin Atlantic with cutting-edge AI technology. Whether guests are seeking the perfect getaway, exploring Virgin Atlantic Holidays, or booking their next flight, the Concierge listens, understands, and curates tailored recommendations in real time, offering a seamless way to plan, book, and dream about future travels through natural conversation. Guests can choose to tap, type or talk, enjoying effortless interaction however they prefer.
Travel Trends in Australia's Wine Regions
Australia’s wine regions are pulling in a different crowd these days. What used to be an area that focused on serious wine collectors now attracts families, young professionals, and travelers who simply want a weekend that feels more real than another hotel in the city.
Qatar Airways Group Appoints Mr. Hamad Ali Al-Khater as Group Chief Executive Officer
Qatar Airways Group today announced the appointment of Mr. Hamad Ali Al‑Khater as Group Chief Executive Officer, effective Sunday, 7 December 2025. Mr. Al‑Khater succeeds Engr. Badr Mohammed Al‑Meer.