Dubai, UAE, June 24, 2017:  With the end of the school year upon us, many families will be planning to leave Dubai’s hot summer until the cooler start of the school year in September. Dr Sara Elliott, at British Veterinary Hospital in Dubai, explains the restrictions pet owners will face with the increase in travel plans for pets. She said: “With the inevitable mass exodus over the summer we always have a huge increase of enquiries about pet travel arrangements. While it’s wonderful for your pets to be able to enjoy the great outdoors with mum, dad and the kids, there are some key elements pet owners need to be aware of from both a health and safety perspective for ......Read More

22 June 2017   Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and China Southern Airlines, Asia’s largest airline, have announced a new codeshare partnership, which comes into effect on 22 June 2017. This increases the number of codeshare agreements operated by the Abu Dhabi-based airline to 53.  Under the agreement, China Southern Airlines will put its 'CZ' code on Etihad Airways’ daily services between Beijing (PEK)/Shanghai (PVG)/Chengdu (CTU) and Abu Dhabi.  The codeshare partnership will give China Southern guests the opportunity to book codeshare flights to and from Abu Dhabi, and connect onto Etihad’s network ......Read More

22 June 2017 New ‘Neighbour-Free Seat’ paid option in Economy Class Premium Lounge access now a paid option for Economy Class  Business Class paid upgrade for First Class Lounge and Spa access Chauffeur services for Business and First Class to become a paid option at all international destinations Economy Class guests now able to pay for Etihad Chauffeur services Continued complimentary chauffeur services in Abu Dhabi for all eligible Business and First Class guests Etihad Airways is introducing a series of changes designed to offer increased value and flexibility based on customer feedback.  The airline is to amend its chauffeur policy ......Read More

Personal Arabic shopping assistant in the summer months From July 24 up to and including September 10, 2017, Munich Airport will offer Arabic-speaking personal shopping assistants on request in Terminal 2. They will be available to bridge any cultural or language gaps between passengers and the personnel serving them in airport shops. The native Arabic speakers can also guide travelers through the Terminal 2 shopping world and provide detailed information on offers and products. The service will be free of charge for passengers, and is intended to provide them with a pleasant shopping experience. The shopping assistants can also help in case of questions on sales tax refunds or ......Read More

21 June 2017  The peak summer travel period is fast approaching with many travellers making plans for trips home or on holiday. The combination of the Eid public holiday, school break and the summer season means that 22 June to 24 August will be a particularly busy time at Abu Dhabi International Airport, with up to 3.3 million guests flying with Etihad Airways across the network over the next two months. To make sure that our guests enjoy a convenient travel experience during this busy period, we have a number of travel tips and reminders to save time. With the Etihad Airways mobile app, guests can check in 49 hours before departure and download an electronic boarding ......Read More

21 June 2017 Airline wins three major awards for its industry-leading First Class at the annual World Airline Awards  Etihad Airways has once again been presented with three coveted awards for the World’s Best First Class, Best First Class Onboard Catering, and Best First Class Airline Seat at the annual Skytrax World Airline Awards. The event was held at the Musee de l’Air et de l’Espace, as part of the bi-annual Paris Airshow. The prestigious World Airline Awards are widely considered to be a global benchmark of airline excellence. Winners are chosen based on the votes and findings of a ten month survey of over 19 million air travellers from 105 countries. ......Read More

Dubai, UAE, June 20, 2017:  Etihad Airways has been given a top rating by London’s Heathrow Airport for its emissions and night-time noise performance during the first three months of 2017. The “Fly Quiet and Clean” League Table, the first of its kind to be produced by the airport, placed the UAE’s national airline ......Read More

-         Aerospace leaders to return to UAE capital to tackle industry challenges   -         Future of aerospace to be assessed at time of international unpredictability 19 June 2017 - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: 1,000 of the world’s aerospace, space and defence industry leaders will define the future of their sectors when they return to Abu Dhabi for the fourth edition of the Global Aerospace Summit 2018.  Corporate, government and military strategies will be marked out at the Summit, which will address some of the key challenges facing the aerospace industry and discuss future trends at a time of international ......Read More

Ajman – UAE, June 20, 2017:  Thanani, the contemporary restaurant in Ajman’s serene Al Zorah pavilion hosted the official opening event of the ‘Zayed Humanitarian Day’ launched by Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD). The initiative which is aimed at training and integrating people of determination in the government and tourism sectors across Ajman commenced with a hearty and delectable Iftar served on the evening at Thanani who were also the official sponsors of the event. The initiative was launched under the patronage of Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Tourism Development Department and is in line with the ......Read More

Exhibitor Commitments and Interest High Dubai, UAE. 19 June 2017:  The new features taking place at the Dubai Airshow 2017 including new sector specific pavilions, Space Pavilion, UAV Summit, Cargo Zone and the return of Airport Solutions, are set to bring focus to new market sectors when the show opens in November. The Space Pavilion ......Read More

Dubai, UAE, June 17, 2017:  Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and one of the main sponsors of the Taste of London Festival, has crowned Dean Parker from The Manor restaurant in London, winner of its Taste the World competition. The competition took place on 15th June. The Taste the World Award is presented ......Read More

Dubai, United Arab Emirates (June 15, 2017):  Arjaan by Rotana, a popular hotel apartments property located in the heart of Dubai Media City, recently hosted an exclusive Iftar for members of the media fraternity in Dubai.  More than 20 media personnel ranging from travel publications, dailies and lifestyle publications shared a moment of togetherness in the holy month. The locally-grown hospitality brand is guided by the values of nurturing lifelong relationships over time and engaging with its stakeholders - from guests and investors to media. Media provides Arjaan by Rotana a dynamic vehicle to communicate with its target audience by sharing topical information, key ......Read More

Treat kids to some soaking wet play at Splash ‘n’ Party - Dubai’s favourite Kids waterpark. With the kid’s holiday break fast approaching and hours of recreational time needing to be filled, Splash ‘n’ Party offers an array of fun-filled water based activities and engaging onsite entertainment all guaranteed to ......Read More

Two weekly flights connecting Sharjah and Hargeisa starting July 4th   Sharjah, UAE; 14 June 2017:  Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC), announced today that starting 4 July 2017, Hargeisa will be the newest African destination added to its growing international ......Read More

2016 saw 24% growth in the total number of international meetings over 2015, according to UIA rankings. 138% growth achieved since 2012 Dubai, United Arab Emirates: 13 June 2017: Dubai has emerged as one of the top 10 destinations for international meetings, according to the latest edition of the International Meetings Statistics Report ......Read More

Explore the salty winds of Galle, the never-ending Samui sunsets, and the culturally diverse Kuala Lumpur Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 11th June 2017:  The Eid holidays are the perfect occasion to relax and spend time with family.   The extended weekend is the best time to pack your bags and go abroad to escape the summer temperatures ......Read More

Great news for Cebu Pacific passengers flying out of Dubai! The Philippines’ largest carrier celebrates Philippine Independence Day by giving all passengers the freedom to bring more gifts and ‘pasalubong’ for their loved-ones as Cebu Pacific offers a total baggage allowance that exceeds a typical ‘balikbayan ......Read More

Dubai, UAE, June 8, 2017:  Leading Philippine carrier Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB) has placed an order with Airbus for an additional seven A321CEO (Current Engine Option) aircraft, for delivery from March 2018. The aircraft will meet the airline’s increased capacity requirements pending the start of delivery of 32 A321NEO aircraft, which will now begin in 4TH quarter of 2018. CEB has chosen to defer the A321NEO deliveries due to delays with the Pratt & Whitney engines selected to power the aircraft. “We have decided to take a conservative approach to the introduction of the A321NEO into our operations. We remain confident that Pratt & Whitney will address all issues ......Read More

Dubai, UAE, June 8, 2017:  Etihad Aviation Group confirms that it has terminated negotiations with TUI AG, in relation to a potential joint venture involving the leisure operations of Air Berlin Group and the German TUIfly company. Etihad has taken this decision following many months of negotiations, in good faith, during which time the parties have been unable to reach agreement on the final nature of such a joint venture. The leisure operations of Air Berlin group will now continue to operate as a separate business unit, under the NIKI brand.  Further details of this structure will be announced in due course by Air Berlin. NIKI’s operating schedule remains ......Read More

Dubai, UAE, June 8, 2017:  VFS Global, the world’s leading technology and outsourcing services company for visa processing, has launched special offers providing visa applicants with just the convenience they are looking for this Ramadan. From extended working hours to special discounts, VFS Global’s Ramadan offers on its specialised services ensures applicants in the United Arab Emirates experience a level of comfort and ease like no other! Ramadan special offers for VFS Global applicants (applicable from 25 May to 28 June 2017) include: Extended working hours at the Visa Application Centre in Wafi Mall Dubai During the month of Ramadan, the Visa Application ......Read More

Dubai, UAE, June 7, 2017:  The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Qantas will host the 74th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit. The event will attract the top leadership of the air transport industry to Sydney, Australia, from 3 5 June 2018. “Sydney is an excellent choice to become the capital of the global air transport industry in June 2018. I am confident that Qantas will be an excellent host, as they were when we last met there in 2000. Australia’s pioneering tradition on aviation matters carries on to this day with competitive airlines, effective air traffic management and a commitment to Smarter Regulation. ......Read More

6 June 2017 (Dubai, UAE) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) 73rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) approved a resolution calling for governments to implement policies to accelerate the deployment of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). The Resolution also reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to work with governments to implement the Carbon Offset and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) global CO2 emissions agreement.  “The CORSIA agreement is a vital part of our strategy on combatting aviation emissions. We are committed to carbon neutral growth from 2020 and to cutting net emissions to half 2005 levels by 2050. While offsetting is critical to ......Read More

6 June 2017 (Dubai, UAE) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) revised its 2017 industry profitability outlook upwards. Airlines are expected to report a $31.4 billion profit (up from the previously forecast $29.8 billion) on revenues of $743 billion (up from the previously forecast $736 billion).  “This will be another solid year of performance for the airline industry. Demand for both the cargo and passenger business is stronger than expected. While revenues are increasing, earnings are being squeezed by rising fuel, labor and maintenance expenses. Airlines are still well in the black and delivering earnings above their cost of capital. But, compared to last ......Read More

6 June 2017 (Dubai, UAE) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) 73rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) adopted a resolution reaffirming the airline industry’s commitment to safety and security. It also called for greater collaboration among all government and industry stakeholders to keep flying secure with risk mitigation measures that maximize the protection of passengers and crew while minimizing disruption to passengers and the economy at large.  “Aviation is a target for terrorists intent on destroying the freedom that is at the heart of our business. Information sharing among governments and with the industry is the key to staying a step ahead of ......Read More

Dubai, UAE, June 6, 2017:  The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that the global airline industry’s performance on safety, sustainability and profitability is solid, but the industry faces the threat of protectionist measures being implemented by governments. IATA also called for governments to enhance their collaboration with the industry to meet rising security challenges, avert a looming infrastructure crisis and to build smarter regulation.   The Director General’s Report on the Global Air Transport Industry was delivered to the 73rd IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit. The event opened today and has gathered 1,000 ......Read More

Dubai, UAE, June 6, 2017:  The International Air Transport Association (IATA) 73rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) adopted a resolution to accelerate the modernization and transformation of the air cargo industry. The resolution builds on the momentum created by the entry into force of the World Trade Organization’s (WTO’s) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).  “The TFA commits governments to making trade faster, cheaper and more efficient. Air cargo processes are stuck in another century. To ensure that air cargo is ready to benefit from the expected $1 trillion boost in trade growth arising from the TFA and the improving global economic environment, we need a ......Read More

Dubai, UAE, June 5, 2017:  Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai is delighted to welcome back Victoria Kashakashvili as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager. In her new position, Victoria will be in charge of all F&B outlets at the 125-room business hotel located in the historic heart of Dubai and take charge of all F&B ......Read More

4th June 2017, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi Airports’ Free Zone (ADAFZ) is thriving as the destination of choice for businesses, as it issues its 200th trade license today to NATS. NATS is the UK's leading provider of air traffic control services. Each year the company handles 2.5 million flights and 250 million passengers in UK airspace alone. In addition to providing services to 14 UK airports, and managing all upper airspace in the UK, NATS is working with customers around the world, and prides itself on extending its services to the Middle East region. With the 200th trade license, ADAFZ has proven its popularity in attracting businesses to the capital, as ......Read More

Experience the first public flying appearance of the A321neo and A350-1000; Journey into the future in 3D at the Airbus Digital Exhibition centre; Virtually fly an A400M or interactively explore an “Airspace” cabin in 3D. Dubai, UAE -  4th June 2017 – At the Paris Air Show, which runs from 19th to 25th June ......Read More

4 June 2017 (Dubai, UAE) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that leaders of the global air transport industry are gathering in Cancun, Mexico for the Association’s 73rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit. The AGM will feature keynote addresses on Monday by Mr. Gerardo Ruiz Esparza, Mexico’s Minister of Communications and Transport and Dr. Olumuyiwa Benard Aliu, President of the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). “Cancun will be the capital of air transportation as aviation leaders gather for the 73rd IATA AGM and World Air Transport Summit. The airline industry’s most senior leaders ......Read More

--Laptop Ban May Be Affecting Middle East-US Traffic-- 4 June 2017 (Dubai, UAE) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced global passenger traffic data for April 2017 showing that demand (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose by 10.7% compared to April 2016, which was the fastest pace in six years. April capacity (available seat kilometers or ASKs) increased by 7.1%, and load factor climbed 2.7 percentage points to 82.0%- a record for the month of April.  The strong performance is supported by a pick-up in global economic activity and lower airfares. After adjusting for inflation, the price of air travel in the first quarter was around 10% ......Read More

  Sharjah’s premier archaeological and eco-tourism project provides an unforgettable learning environment  Sharjah,June 03, 2017  The UAE’s residents and visitors who are fascinated by the country’s rich history and wish to learn more about its early civilizations will be amply rewarded with a trip to ......Read More

31st May 2017 - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi Duty Free is celebrating the Ramadan season with various activities and initiatives aimed at spreading the spirit of this holy month throughout the capital’s airport. Abu Dhabi Duty Free is actively engaging passengers with the essence of Ramadan, educating guests on what this month is all about. Screens across the airport terminals will be showing videos on the habits and traditions strengthened in Ramadan, and several entertaining activities will also be taking place. These include: live weavers, displays of Al Ghadeer traditional UAE crafts and the unique woven products of the local brand Tegaya which is supported by ......Read More

30 May 2017 To celebrate the Year of Giving, Etihad Guest has launched a special Ramadan campaign with Emirates Red Crescent to provide thousands of meals to families and children in need in Somalia.  Members of Etihad Airways’ award-winning loyalty programme can donate their miles to the emergency response in the African country, with 750 Etihad Guest Miles providing one meal. The aim of the campaign is to achieve 15 million miles of donations which would provide 20,000 meals. The Etihad Guest partnership with Emirates Red Crescent is one of the many elements of Etihad Airways’ contribution to the UAE’s Year of Giving programme. Yasser Al Yousuf, ......Read More

May 31, 2017- The Elaf Group of Companies, a SEDCO Holding Group company and a leading provider of travel, tourism and hospitality services, has announced the coming opening of its latest five-star hotel in Jeddah. The latest addition to Elaf Group’s growing portfolio of hotels is part of its recent implementation of a strategic expansion initiative aimed at further reinforcing its leading presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s booming tourism and hospitality segment--in line with the goals and objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 to support the national economy and to promote tourism, particularly tourism for religious purposes, as a key contributor in the efforts to achieve a ......Read More