Travel News Page 485
Crowne Plaza by IHG Reveals a New Era of Blended Travel
Crowne Plaza by IHG – one of the world’s largest premium hotel brands and a thought-leader in the blended travel space – has released its second white paper: Leading the Charge in Blended Travel. The report unveils a major shift since its 2022 report, driven by a new breed of companies and individuals seeking far-reaching flexibility that extends beyond traditional work-life balance and into a holistic approach focused on personal growth, mind-body equity, and connection when travelling.
Jockey Club announces plans to become a global sports entertainment brand
The Hong Kong Jockey Club (the Club) announced the launch of a major initiative to transform itself into a global sports entertainment brand with the ultimate aim of creating even more value for the community. In support, the Club has entered into a strategic partnership with XIX Entertainment (XIX), one of the world’s top entertainment brands.
Wego and Hong Kong Tourism Board Partner
Wego, the number 1 travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), is proud to announce a strategic partnership with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) to showcase the vibrant culture, world class experiences, and renewed appeal of Hong Kong as a must visit destination for travelers across the MENA region.
Turkish Airlines Announces First Use of the Sompo AXIS Aviation Finance Insurance (SAAFI) Product
Turkish Airlines, a leading global airline, has mandated the first financing structure to use the Sompo AXIS Aviation Finance Insurance (SAAFI), Aviation Non-Payment Insurance (ANPI) product. This transaction, sealed at a signing ceremony in Tokyo, Japan, marks a significant milestone in aviation financing insurance as it is the first time SAAFI has been mandated following its launch earlier this year.
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Etihad Reports April 2025 Traffic Statistics
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has released its traffic statistics for April 2025, demonstrating continued strong growth and performance. The airline welcomed 1.7 million guests during the month, up 21% compared to the same period last year, as Etihad’s upward trajectory continued
U.S Economy Set To Lose $12.5BN In International Traveler Spend this year
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the global body representing the Travel & Tourism private sector, today announced its latest Economic Impact Research which found that the U.S. is on track to lose a staggering $12.5BN in international visitor spending this year. Notably, international visitor spending to the U.S. is projected to fall to just under $169BN this year, down from $181BN in 2024.
Riyadh Air selects Sabre as its first global distribution partner
Sabre Corporation, a leading software and technology provider that powers the global travel industry, has signed a global distribution agreement with Riyadh Air, the newly established Saudi Arabian national carrier. This strategic partnership positions Sabre as the first global distribution partner to collaborate with Riyadh Air, building on an already strong IT partnership and further solidifying Sabre’s role as a key enabler of the airline’s retailing and distribution strategy.
Wyndham and Le Park Concord to Launch 100 Super 8® Hotels Across Saudi Arabia
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,300 hotels spanning more than 95 countries, has entered into an exclusive development agreement with Le Park Concord Company to launch its iconic Super 8® by Wyndham brand in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With plans to open 100 hotels over the next ten years, the agreement reinforces Wyndham’s long-term commitment to quality, accessible and sustainable hospitality development in the region. The signing was executed with the active support of the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, further underlining the initiative’s alignment with the Kingdom’s national tourism goals.
Baraka and Kerten Hospitality partner to launch The House Residence at Al Salam District in Jeddah
In a strategic move to bring soulful, modern living to the forefront of Jeddah’s urban landscape, Baraka for Real Estate Development and Investment Company Ltd has signed a milestone agreement with global lifestyle hospitality operator Kerten Hospitality to launch The House Residence Al Salam District in Jeddah. The announcement was made earlier today during the Future Hospitality Summit Saudi Arabia in Riyadh.
SOPHOS Hotels SA and WATANIAH Business Group to manage a Le Meridien
In partnership with WATANIAH Business Group, SOPHOS Hotels SA, one of the leading Third-party hotel operator, is set to manage a Le Meridien, one of Marriott International’s premium brands, in Tabuk. Marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s evolving hospitality landscape. Sophos have signed this agreement to operate a property that is strategically located at a crucial commercial and logistical hub, bordering Jordan, the Red Sea, and other emerging regions across Saudi Arabia. With construction already advancing, the hotel is moving ahead and foreseen to open its doors Q1 2026.
Harry Theoharis: A Profile of Leadership and Vision in Tourism and Governance
Harry Theoharis, a prominent figure in Greek politics and international tourism, has carved out a distinguished career marked by his deep commitment to public service and transformative leadership. Currently serving as a Member of the Hellenic Parliament, Theoharis has held key ministerial roles, including Minister of Tourism and Deputy Minister of Finance in Greece. His ambition and vision extend beyond national borders, as he seeks to bring his expertise to global tourism challenges as a candidate for the Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
Marriott International Signs Agreement to Bring the Iconic St. Regis Brand to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
“The signing of The St. Regis Jeddah reflects our commitment to expand our portfolio of brands and experiences in the Kingdom,” said Karim Cheltout, Senior Vice President, Development, Middle East & Africa. “Jeddah continues to be an important business and leisure destination in the region, and a gateway to Makkah and Medina. We look forward to offering locals and travellers to the city the St. Regis’ legendary service, modern glamour and distinctive luxury experiences.”