Tourism News Page 83
Hilton Signs Umfolozi River Hotel, KwaZulu Natal, Tapestry Collection by Hilton in South Africa
Hilton has announced the signing of Umfolozi River Hotel, KwaZulu Natal, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, in partnership with Umfolozi Hotel and Spa (Pty) Ltd. Expected to open in 2028, the hotel marks the brand’s second Tapestry Collection signing in South Africa within the last year, demonstrating Hilton’s continued growth across key leisure destinations in the country. The signing took place during Africa’s Travel Indaba in Durban with representatives from Hilton, Umfolozi Hotel and Spa (Pty) Ltd, and Valor Hospitality Partners.
Hilton Strengthens its Hyderabad Presence with Signing of First Hilton Garden Inn in Kompally
Hilton has announced the signing of Hilton Garden Inn Hyderabad Kompally, further strengthening its presence in Hyderabad, one of India’s fastest-growing commercial hubs. Once open, the property will become Hilton’s third hotel in the city, following the recently opened Hilton Hyderabad Genome Valley Resort & Spa and the upcoming Hilton Hyderabad Gachibowli, while also marking the company’s first Hilton Garden Inn in Hyderabad. Expected to open in 2028, the new property is being developed by Fairmount and Friends LLP, part of the Fairmount Group.
NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort Unveils Caravela: A Story-Driven Fine Dining Concept
NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort, a newly-opened sanctuary in the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, introduces Caravela, an immersive culinary journey inspired by the great maritime expeditions that shaped global gastronomy. Blending Spanish culinary heritage with Maldivian provenance, Caravela offers a multi-sensory journey where each course unfolds as a chapter in the story of exploration, trade and cultural exchange. The concept takes its name from the caravel, the agile Portuguese vessel that enabled pioneering voyages between the 14th and 17th centuries.
Qatar Airways Unveils FIFA Special Livery and Bespoke Onboard Experience
Qatar Airways has officially unveiled its FIFA special livery aircraft on a Boeing 777 ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, celebrating the airline’s longstanding partnership with FIFA and its continued role in connecting fans, teams and global football communities worldwide.
Caribbean Airlines cuts routes in network overhaul
To stem millions of dollars in ongoing losses, Caribbean Airlines will discontinue service on several regional routes and slash flight frequencies starting June 1 as part of a broader effort to streamline its network and improve long-term financial stability. The Trinidad and Tobago-based airline said it will end service to Dominica, St. Kitts, and the Ogle, Guyana route to Suriname. It will also reduce flights to Martinique and Guadeloupe to just twice weekly.
Emirates completes first-ever retrofit of two-class A380 aircraft
Emirates has reached a defining milestone in its ambitious multi-billion dollar retrofit programme with the successful reconfiguration of its first two-class A380 aircraft. The newly refurbished aircraft (A6-EUX) has taken to the skies operating as EK 39/40 between Dubai and Birmingham, featuring sparkling new interiors with Emirates’ latest products in three cabin classes: 76 Business Class seats, 56 Premium Economy Seats, and 437 Economy Class seats. This is the first of 15 two-class A380 aircraft in its fleet that Emirates will renovate as part of its commitment to offer customers a consistently superior experience in the sky.
Riyadh Air Introduces New Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners on Riyadh-London Route
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, today announced the launch of full public sales for flights between Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (RUH) and London Heathrow (LHR). This key route, which introduces the new aircraft on 1 July 2026, strengthens the airline’s mission to connect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with major global and regional hubs and deliver a world-class travel and logistics experience. Ticket purchases can be made from today (19 May, 2026) through the Riyadh Air App, Riyadh Air website at riyadhair.com, or through preferred travel providers and platforms. Guests are also invited to become ‘Founding Members’ of the airline’s loyalty program, Sfeer, ensuring a Best Offer Guarantee and free Wifi while earning rewards from their very first flight.
Your Wellness Plans Are Sorted this Eid With Complimentary Gym Access at VEO Fitness
Eid Al Adha is just around the corner, and with long lunches, family gatherings, and city staycations sure to fill the calendar, VEO Fitness is giving Dubai residents another reason to make movement part of the holiday plans. Bringing people together through wellness, VEO’s latest community-led initiative allows every active member to bring one friend or neighbour to experience the club completely free throughout the Eid break.
Enjoy Feel-Good Stays from AED 199 This Eid Al Adha Across Rove Hotels
Eid Al Adha is the perfect time to slow down, reconnect and enjoy a well-earned break. This year, Rove Hotels is making it easier than ever to do just that with a citywide offer designed for comfort, value and a little something extra. With stays starting from AED 199, Rovers can look forward to a vibrant getaway packed with thoughtful additions.
Etihad Airways Makes Eid al-Adha and Summer Travel Easier with Rewards & Smart Check in
Etihad Airways is preparing for a busy Eid al-Adha and summer travel season, with strong demand expected across its expanding global network. To help guests travel more easily during the peak holiday period, the airline is encouraging travellers to plan ahead and make use of its expanded check-in options, digital services, and seasonal travel benefits. With destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia and North America, guests flying to or transiting through Abu Dhabi can benefit from a range of benefits designed to make travel more convenient during the busy holiday season.
Etihad Launches Flights to Salalah, Oman’s Southern Oasis
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, today celebrated the inaugural flight of its new service to Salalah, introducing a direct connection between Abu Dhabi and Oman’s southern coastal city. The new route will operate year-round, launching with two weekly flights on 21 May and increasing to five flights per week from 15 June to coincide with the Khareef season, when Salalah’s coastline and mountains transform into vibrant green landscapes. The introduction of flights to Salalah reflects Etihad’s commitment to expanding its regional network, offering guests across the airline’s global network seamless and consistent access to one of the Gulf’s most bucket-list destinations. The new Salalah route is Etihad’s second destination in Oman, complementing its long-standing operations to Muscat, which celebrates 20 years of operation this year.
Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi and Etihad Airways Surprise Families Ahead of Eid Al Adha
Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi joined forces with Etihad Airways to surprise travelling families and children at Zayed International Airport with a heartwarming character experience ahead of the busy Eid Al Adha and summer travel season. As part of the special collaboration, beloved Warner Bros. characters including Tom and Jerry, Scooby-Doo and Tweety made a surprise appearance across the airport, creating memorable moments for guests as they prepared to Jet off for the holidays and summer break.