The leading membership and accreditation platform for family-focused hotels, the Luxury Childcare Association (LCA), has announced the winners of the inaugural LCA Awards. Voted for by the public, the awards celebrate LCA members who set new standards in luxury family travel, from innovative childcare design to exceptional family experiences. Each category reflects the core LCA values of professionalism, safety, fun and inspiring care for children in remarkable destinations.

Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, has renewed its long-standing management agreement with Munshaat Real Estate Projects for Pullman Zamzam Madinah, one of the most prominent premium hotels in the heart of the Holy City. The renewal reflects a trusted partnership and shared commitment to elevating service, design, and operational excellence in one of Saudi Arabia’s most visited destinations.

Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, has signed a master development agreement with Mayan Properties, a subsidiary of Resources Investment, to further expansion across Sub-Saharan Africa. The partnership strengthens Accor’s presence in Africa while underscoring the strong contribution of UAE-backed investment to Africa’s tourism future.

The Middle East continues to position itself as a global powerhouse in hospitality innovation, setting new benchmarks in luxury, technology, and sustainability. From AI-driven guest experiences and integrated travel ecosystems to well-being tourism and talent transformation, the region is shaping a bold new era of hospitality excellence. With Dubai and the UAE driving progress in AI adoption, regenerative design, and workforce upskilling, the Middle East is not just following global trends —it’s defining them.

Kadam joins with a mandate to build out roomangel’s AI development capabilities and lead the creation of the world’s most advanced AI system for hotel performance-the foundation’s flagship platform, hive.

One of only five Blue Zones in the world, Okinawa has been named by Expedia as one of its Destinations of the Year 2026, ranking second on the list following a remarkable 71% year-on-year increase in flight and accommodation searches. The recognition also aligns with Expedia's new Smart Travel Health Check framework, developed with insights from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) to highlight destinations demonstrating sustainable tourism management. Okinawa's inclusion reflects not only its growing global popularity, but also its commitment to responsible tourism and community wellbeing