City.mobi News
Berlin plans tax on accommodation
Berlin has become the latest major European destination to plan a city tax on accommodation. As in other German cities the tax is expected to be a percentage of the hotel rate including VAT.
WTTC reiterates call for low-carbon growth policies in tourism industry
The World Travel & Tourism Council has urged governments to develop climate change policies which are designed to ensure tourism can continue to grow sustainably. Releasing a communiqué during the International Climate Change Negotiations in Durban, the WTTC said measures would be necessary for tourism to continue to provide millions of new jobs across the planet.
Qatar Airways boosts flights to London from Doha
Qatar Airways is to introduce a fifth daily flight between Doha and London Heathrow Airport from March 25th next year. The carrier is considered as offering the Middle East’s Leading Airline Business Class by the prestigious World Travel Awards.
Etihad launches environmental best practice flights
Etihad Airways has successfully reduced carbon emissions by a combined total of nine tonnes on two flights from Australia to Abu Dhabi. The savings were made as a result of cooperation between Etihad Airways and various air traffic control centres on the ground that enabled the aircraft, two Airbus A340s, to fly routes that took advantage of prevailing jet streams.
Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa revels in UAE 40th anniversary celebrations
Last weekend saw the celebration of the United Arab Emirates 40th Anniversary with festivities and activities held across all seven emirates. Since its formation 40 years ago, the UAE has established itself as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, brining visitors from all over the globe.
Breaking Travel News Review: Soft landing at Aloft London Excel
While W Hotels has revolutionised the concept of design led short-stay accommodation over the last few years, younger sibling Aloft – also by Starwood – is taking a more measured approach, offering business travellers vibrant properties in urban locations. With the brand launching in London last month, Breaking Travel News called in to see what was on offer.
Doha welcomes new Qatar National Convention Centre
The new Qatar National Convention Centre has officially opened in Doha. The venue – under the leadership of Qatar Foundation – is designed to add capacity for creativity and critical thinking through research in education and science as the Middle Eastern destination seeks to build a knowledge based economy.
Etihad Airways celebrates three years of service to Moscow
United Arab Emirates flag-carrier Etihad Airways is celebrating three years of its non-stop service between Abu Dhabi and Moscow. The airline commenced operations to the Russian capital in December 2008 and since then has carried almost 200,000 travellers on the route.
Dubai International Airport passenger numbers surge
Economic uncertainty and flagging consumer confidence in Europe and the United States did little to curtail the continued growth in passenger numbers at Dubai International as traffic surged 7.3 per cent to 4.3 million passengers in October, according to the latest traffic statistics released today by Dubai Airports. October passenger numbers rose to 4,307,817, up 7.3 per cent compared to 4,013,127 recorded during the same month in 2010.
Hilton continues UAE growth with Jumeirah Hotel Apartment opening
Hilton Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Hilton Jumeirah Hotel Apartment in Dubai, UAE, the American brand’s third property in the city. Located on Jumeirah Beach and The Walk, the popular beachfront avenue of boutiques, al fresco restaurants and modern day Arabic culture, Hilton Jumeirah Hotel Apartment is linked via footbridge to Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort, with both properties sharing a wide range of facilities and services.
Emirati youth urged toward hospitality careers at World Green Tourism
Popular misconceptions about careers in tourism are causing many Emirati youth to overlook rewarding careers in the tourism industry, says a local cultural expert. Ali Al Saloom, owner and founder of Embrace Arabia, an organisation dedicated to enhancing intercultural relationships and educating newcomers about Emirati culture, argues local students and their families often hold negative stereotypes about careers in the tourism industry.
Emirates launches new Rome A380 service
Emirates has brought Italy into its broadening A380 network after the launch of a superjumbo service to Rome. EK097 is now operated with the popular double-decker, bringing an additional 34 per cent capacity on the Dubai-Rome route or an extra 250 seats each day.