Organisations & Operators News Page 207
Etihad Airways Signs as Official Airline Partner of the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, will be the Official Airline Partner of the 2026 Open Masters Games taking place from 6-15 February in over 20 venues across Abu Dhabi, marking a significant partnership that reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a host of world‑class sporting events. The event highlights the importance of sport as a way of life for people of all ages and backgrounds; and showcases Etihad’s commitment to supporting the Abu Dhabi community.
The Peninsula Motoring Series Debuts in The Scottish Highlands
As luxury travellers around the world increasingly seek exceptional experiences, they are discovering that the most memorable journeys are not about where you go, but who you meet along the way. This September, The Peninsula Hotels is once again bringing its renowned hospitality beyond its doors and guiding an intimate group of motoring enthusiasts through the Scottish Highlands for six days of winding mountain passes, historic estates, and the kind of shared moments that turn fellow travellers into lasting connections with its newest iteration of The Peninsula Motoring Series, Scotland.
IHG Hotels & Resorts to debut its luxury lifestyle brand, Kimpton in Qatar
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of Kimpton Al Rowda Doha, a 283-key luxury lifestyle hotel situated in the heart of the capital. Slated to open mid-2026, the hotel will bring Kimpton’s signature blend of playful design, culinary innovation, and genuine service to Doha, creating a vibrant hub for authentic human connection.
Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) commissions large-scale biodigester, with aim to reduce CO₂ emission
Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) is scaling up its approach to waste management with a custom-built biodigester, one of the largest in commercial scale and capacity. The Power Knot LFC-3000 biodigester at EKFC's Central Commissary Unit enables on-site processing of organic waste, treating it at the source rather than diverting it to landfill.
Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy Makes Its Debut in Greater China with the Opening of Artik Suzhou
Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel platform and global portfolio of more than 30 brands, today announced the opening of Artik Suzhou, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy, the highly anticipated Asia debut for the brand in Greater China. Located in the heart of the historic city of Suzhou—often referred to as the “Venice of the East”—the property blends contemporary design with the refined elegance of Suzhou’s centuries-old cultural heritage, thoughtfully reinterpreting local art, architecture, and tradition.
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives Celebrates Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives invites guests to celebrate Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH with a serene three-day island experience from 19 to 21 March 2026, honouring the values of renewal, gratitude, togetherness, and shared joy in a setting where time and space are gently redefined.
AROYA Cruises Prepares for Highly Anticipated Inaugural Arabian Gulf Season
AROYA Cruises, the first Arabian cruise line introduced by Cruise Saudi, a 100% PIF-owned company – has unveiled its much-anticipated inaugural Arabian Gulf season, commencing in February 2026. The new season introduces a range of voyages from two-, three- and four-night itineraries, all the way through to five-, six- and seven-night journeys that offer international guests a unique opportunity to explore some of the Arabian Gulf’s most vibrant destinations by sea from a range of ports throughout the region.
Emirates introduces second service to Tokyo Narita
Emirates has announced the expansion of its operations to Tokyo Narita with the introduction of a second daily service from 1 May, operated by the airline’s retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER.
WIZZ AIR ADDS SANTORINI TO EXPANDING GREEK NETWORK
Wizz Air, the fastest-growing European airline and London’s local airline, today announces the launch of a brand new route from London Gatwick to Santorini, further expanding its Greek network ahead of the peak summer travel season.
Emirates joins UAE–Kuwait week celebrations, honouring decades of enduring ties
Emirates marked UAE-Kuwait Week with a series of special onboard initiatives, marking the longstanding ties that unite the UAE and the State of Kuwait.
Rail Europe expands global distribution of European rail through a new integration with Juniper
Rail Europe has strengthened its international distribution strategy through a new integration of its European rail offering into the technology platform of Juniper Travel Technology, making it easier for travel agencies and OTAs to sell rail within their existing booking flows.
Seconds, Not Minutes: Thai Airways’ Leap in Baggage Handling
Automation cuts baggage processing time from minutes to seconds, transforming passenger experience at one of Asia’s busiest hubs.