Kempinski Hotels is pleased to announce the appointment of Barbara Biffi as Chief Brand Officer, a role created to drive the next stage of the group’s transformation. Biffi will lead the strategic overhaul of Kempinski’s brand and marketing ecosystem, guiding the company through a significant evolution that builds on its enduring heritage while redefining its future in luxury hospitality.

Four in five (79%) travellers in EMEA intend to go on more or the same amount of holidays in 2026 compared to 2025, including 39% who plan to go on an increased number, according to new industry research conducted by Mortar, of more than 22,000 adults across 11 key travel markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Figures from the research, included in Marriott Bonvoy’s 2026 EMEA Ticket to Travel Report, suggest continued overall momentum for the region’s travel sector next year. The average traveller in EMEA is planning five holidays in 2026, with two domestic holidays within their own country, two short-haul breaks (a four-hour flight or less), and one long-haul trip.

Calling all adventure-seekers: Royal Caribbean has revealed its lineup of summer 2027 getaways for travelers to experience the wonders of Alaska. Vacationers can secure their front-row seats to The Last Frontier on weeklong voyages on Anthem, Quantum, Serenade and Voyager of the Seas. The boldest adventures on land and at sea are on deck with 7-night adventures fromSeattle; Seward, Alaska; and Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada, along with ways to take exploration to the next level with multi-night Cruisetour experiences on land. The 2027 Alaska vacations are now open to book on Royal Caribbean's websitefor Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members, ahead of the official opening on Thursday, Oct. 23.

Buddha-Bar Real Estate Development, a joint venture which will be exclusively managed and represented by Yieldhaüs, is delighted to unveil the highly anticipated design of the region’s first-ever Buddha-Bar Hotel and Floating Residences By Buddha-Bar on Dubai’s World Islands. This new landmark brings the world-renowned lifestyle brand to the Middle East in a completely original format, blending island living with immersive design and signature experiences by Buddha-Bar never seen before in the region - featuring the Buddha-Bar Hotel, Floating Residences By Buddha-Bar and the renowned Buddha-Bar Beach. For the first time, the legendary Buddha-Bar concept is being transported from the shores to an island setting, bringing its signature blend of music, mood, and design to the serene seascape of The World Islands.

Mirai has launched Sarai, an advanced AI “super-agent” designed to transform hotel guest interactions into intelligent, seamless experiences. Available 24/7 across multiple languages and channels—including websites, WhatsApp, and soon voice and phone—Sarai can manage real bookings, check rates, process cancellations, and answer complex, multi-part questions in natural language.

Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hospitality management company in the Middle East and Africa, has signed a management contract for the first Tapestry by Hilton branded hotel in Kenya with owner AVA Hotel Limited, further solidifying the company’s position as a leading hotel operator in Kenya and the region.