Continuing to strengthen its network in the Middle-East region, Himalaya Airlines, Nepal’s fast growing premium carrier, has launched its first direct service between Kathmandu and Dubai. The inaugural flight departed from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, at 10:40 and touched down at Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International Airport at 13:25 hours.

Serge Zaalof, managing director, Atlantis, The Palm, talks to Breaking Travel News at Arabian Travel Market 2017. On the agenda are new properties from the brand in China and the United States, as well as the expansion of the existing property in Dubai.

As the Middle Eastern hospitality industry gathers in Dubai for Arabian Travel Market, Breaking Travel News chats to Mahmoud Qalyoubi, general manager, Funsho Signature Limousine. He reveals how the company has grown in the past 12 months and tells us how the Dubai tourism market is developing this year.

Dubai’s tourism sector sustained the momentum of its strong 2017 start, with Dubai Tourism reporting a stellar 11 per cent increase in overnight visitation in the first three months of the year compared to the same period in 2016.

Jaidev Menezes, corporate director of business development, Emaar Hospitality Group, speaks to Breaking Travel News in Dubai about what the company has planned for 2017.

The economy and mid-market hotel segment was identified as presenting a significant opportunity for hotel owners and operators alike at the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference. Expert speakers also identified a gap in the market for more experiential accommodation and entertainment attractions, especially in Dubai, as the market continues to diversify its hospitality offering.