Organisations & Operators News Page 275
UNCCD COP16 Presidency Highlights Stronger Synergies on Land, Climate and Nature at COP30
The five Rio Convention Presidencies (for UNFCCC, CBD and UNCCD) issued a joint call to step up cooperation across climate, biodiversity and land action agendas, presenting the first-ever shared Action Agenda declaration, the Belém Joint Statement, which signals a new, synergy-focused phase of implementation under the Rio Conventions. Youth, Indigenous Peoples, scientists, cities and governments all underscored that this must be driven by rights-based, community-led and science-informed action if it is to deliver real, on-the-ground impact.
All Eyes on Africa as UAE announces $6bn Tourism Investment Plan
As Africa records the fastest tourism growth globally, the UAE is set to inject $6 billion into the continent’s travel and hospitality sector - a move expected to create 70 000 new jobs. The announcement was made at the recent UAE Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025 in Dubai, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Organised by the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism in partnership with The Bench as part of Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World 2025, the event brought together senior government officials, investors, and industry leaders to chart investment priorities and explore opportunities across tourism, infrastructure, aviation, and digital innovation.
Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous sign MoU to explore drone-powered delivery solutions
Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, to explore the development and deployment of next generation air cargo solutions. The agreement was signed by Badr Abbas, Emirates SkyCargo’s Divisional Senior Vice President and Rashid Al Manai, Chief Executive Officer of LODD Autonomous. Under the terms of the MoU, Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous will collaborate to validate the use of VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing) aircraft across the airline’s vast global network, through feasibility studies, regulatory engagement and live demonstrations. Leveraging over four decades’ expertise in the global movement of goods, Emirates SkyCargo will participate in LODD’s experimental operations through to the end of 2027, providing insight to inform design and development, with a view toward commercial deployment in regional and global markets.
Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris honoured with World's Leading Sustainable Supply Chain Programme
Luxury icon Four Seasons Hotel George, V, Paris has been recognised with the title of World's Leading Sustainable Supply Chain Programme 2025 by voters at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA). The prize was revealed in front of hundreds of global leaders of sustainable tourism gathered in Dubai for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025. The VIP ceremony was held at Terra, Expo City Dubai and recognised the individuals and organisations that are accelerating change in net positive tourism.
FortyGuard honoured with World's Leading Sustainable Technology Initiative title at WSTHA
FortyGuard, a market leader for urban heat intelligence and mitigation, has been recognised with the title of World's Leading Sustainable Technology Initiative 2025 by voters at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA). The prize was revealed in front of hundreds of global leaders of sustainable tourism gathered in Dubai for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025. The VIP ceremony was held at Terra, Expo City Dubai and recognised the individuals and organisations that are accelerating change in net positive tourism.
Etijah honoured with World’s Leading Sustainable Education & Training Programme title at WSTHA
Youth & Development Consultancy Institute – Etijah has been recognised with the title of World's Leading Sustainable Education & Training Programme 2025 for the Employability Program in the Hospitality Sector by voters at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA). The prize was revealed in front of hundreds of global leaders of sustainable tourism gathered in Dubai for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025. The VIP ceremony was held at Terra, Expo City Dubai and recognised the individuals and organisations that are accelerating change in net positive tourism.
Hotel Katarina Opening Early 2026 on Croatia's Pelješac Peninsula
Opening early 2026, Hotel Katarina marks an exciting new chapter in the evolution of the Korta Katarina Collection, expanding its legacy of refined Adriatic hospitality. With its idyllic setting on the Dalmatian Coast, this intimate 11-suite Relais & Châteaux seaside retreat captures the essence of Croatia's coastal charm with contemporary elegance.
Bali Beachfront Weddings at the Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa
The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa stands as one of Bali's most enchanting beachfront wedding destinations, offering couples a breathtaking setting on one of the island's most iconic stretches of sand. With panoramic ocean views, elegant architecture, and exceptional Balinese hospitality, the resort brings romance and luxury together in a way few places can. Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, every detail is handled with precision, care, and heartfelt service—creating a wedding experience that feels effortless, beautiful, and deeply personal.
Expedition Micro Cruises Emerge as Top Travel Trend for 2026
As 2026 sets to be the year of purposeful and personalised travel, Expedition Micro Cruises to the remote polar regions are surging in popularity and emerging as a hot travel trend for next year. Leading this new wave of exploration is Secret Atlas, pioneers of small group adventure through Expedition Micro Cruises, offering highly exclusive voyages to the Arctic, Antarctica and South Georgia with a maximum of just 12 and 44 guests onboard each expedition.
KERTEN HOSPITALITY ENTERS MOROCCO WITH SIGNING OF CLOUD 7 HOTEL DERSA TETUÀN
Kerten Hospitality, the global lifestyle operator renowned for creating community-driven destinations, today announced the signing of Cloud 7 Dersa Tetuàn in partnership with Oromecanica Group, a distinguished Moroccan jeweler celebrated for its commitment to authentic craftsmanship and fine artisanal heritage. The signing, which took place in Casablanca, marks Kerten Hospitality’s foray into Morocco’s vibrant and rapidly growing hospitality market.
Series by Marriott Celebrates its Global Debut with 26 Openings Across Key Destinations in India
Marriott International, Inc. announces the global debut of Series by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, with the launch of The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott in India. This new collection brand is designed to celebrate regional character while delivering the trusted consistency of Marriott’s global standards. The first phase of openings includes 26 hotels across key destinations in India, bringing over 1,900 rooms to Marriott’s portfolio and marking a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion.
Marriott International Celebrates 100 Property Milestone in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Marriott International, Inc. today announced it has reached a milestone of 100 combined open and pipeline hotels in Saudi Arabia following the signing of an agreement with a fund managed by SEDCO Capital for a 1,100 room Courtyard by Marriott in Makkah. The property will be situated within the Holy City’s landmark Masar destination which is owned, developed and operated by Umm Al Qura for Development and Construction. Expected to open in 2030, Courtyard by Marriott Makkah Masar is anticipated to deliver the brand’s signature blend of exceptional hospitality, modern comfort and purposeful design.