The post IATA: Policy issues could compromise SAF production appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has pointed out that government mandates and policy shortfalls could compromise both the production and adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) across the globe.

This realisation came as IATA announced on Sunday, 1st June, that it expects SAF production to reach two million tonnes (Mt) (2.5 billion liters) or 0.7 percent of airlines’ total fuel consumption in 2025.

IATA director-general Willie Walsh said: “While it is encouraging that SAF production is expected to double to two million tonnes in 2025, that is just 0.7 percent of aviation’s total fuel needs, and even that relatively small amount will add $4.4 billion globally to the fuel bill. The pace of progress in ramping up production and gaining efficiencies to reduce costs must accelerate.”

Mandates are part of the problem

Most SAF is now heading toward Europe, where the EU and UK mandates kicked in at the beginning of this year.

Unacceptably, the cost of SAF to airlines has now doubled in Europe because of compliance fees that SAF producers or suppliers are charging. 

For the expected one million tonnes of SAF that will be purchased to meet the European mandates in 2025, the expected cost at current market prices is $1.2 billion. 

Compliance fees are estimated to add an additional $1.7 billion on top of market prices, an amount that could have abated an additional 3.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions. 

Instead of promoting the use of SAF, Europe’s SAF mandates have made SAF five times more costly than conventional jet fuel.

Walsh declared:  “This highlights the problem with the implementation of mandates before there are sufficient market conditions and before safeguards are in place against unreasonable market practices that raise the cost of decarbonization. Raising the cost of the energy transition that is already estimated to be a staggering $4.7 trillion should not be the aim or the result of decarbonization policies. Europe needs to realize that its approach is not working and find another way.”

How IATA is helping build the global SAF market

To support the development of a global SAF market, IATA has worked on two initiatives:

• A SAF registry managed by the Civil Aviation Decarbonization Organization (CADO) that brings a transparent and standardized system for tracking SAF purchases, usage and associated emissions reductions in compliance with international regulations such as Carbon Offsetting Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and the EU Emissions Trading Scheme.
• The SAF Matchmaker that will facilitate SAF procurement by matching airline requests for SAF with supply offers.

What needs to be done

IATA urges governments to focus on three areas:

1. Creating more effective policies. Eliminating the disadvantage that renewable energy producers face compared with big oil is necessary to scale renewable energy production in general and SAF production in particular. This includes redirecting a portion of the $1 trillion in subsidies that governments globally grant for fossil fuel.
2. Develop a comprehensive approach to energy policy that includes SAF. Firstly, advancing SAF production requires an increase in renewable energy production from which SAF is derived. Secondly, it also requires policies to ensure SAF is allocated an appropriate portion of renewable energy production. A holistic approach should support joint use of infrastructure, co-production and other measures that will benefit the energy transition for aviation and for all other economic sectors.
3. Ensure the success of CORSIA as the sole market-based mechanism to address international aviation’s CO2 emissions. IATA urges governments to make Eligible Emissions Units (EEUs) available to airlines. To date Guyana is the only state to have made their carbon credits available for airlines to purchase and claim against their CORSIA obligations.

What role does India play in this context?

India, one of the emerging economies on the world stage today, is the third-largest oil user after the US and China. 

The South Asian nation launched the Global Biofuels Alliance to position biofuels as a key to energy transition and economic growth. 

This includes a target for two percent SAF blending for international flights by 2028 with enabling policies such as guaranteed pricing, capital support for new projects, and technical standards. 

IATA will be working with the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) and Praj Industries Limited, to provide guidance on global best practices for life cycle assessment of the use of feedstocks in the country. 

As the third-largest global civil aviation market, India can strengthen its leadership in biofuels with the accelerated adoption of SAF through progressive policies.

The post IATA: Policy issues could compromise SAF production appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Global demand for MICE services is stronger than ever appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In a world where the travel sector’s focus is shifting towards more experiential offerings, the importance of MICE services continues to grow throughout the world.

Based on a study conducted by MICE Hospitality back in 2023, the sector’s worth stands to grow to around US$1.4 trillion by 2028, and both hotels and stand-alone venues are scrambling to carve themselves a larger share of the market.

Following the pandemic years, large-scale MICE events are back and the range of services to ensure successful meetings, conferences, and exhibitions has grown more diverse over the past couple of years.

At the same time, countries are also ramping up their respective facilities to welcome MICE travellers, ensuring that their events are both successful and memorable.

This last point, however, raises the question of how companies select the location of their MICE events, given the increasing number of options available to them.

UCC president Li Zhang recently voiced her take on the matter at the recently concluded ITB China 2025, offering four key points for consideration.

Searching for the perfect venue on a global scale

Li said: “Corporate clients are looking for more than just service providers. They want strategic partners in their global expansion journey. This trend of going global is creating new business opportunities for MICE service providers throughout the world.”

She pointed out how corporations have become more meticulous when it comes to selecting venues for their events, especially those staged overseas.

According to Li: “There are a large number of most favoured destinations, In Europe, these are France, Italy, and Switzerland. In Southeast Asia, it’s Singapore or Thailand; of course, Japan and the United States also remain desirable destinations.”

The destinations mentioned are known for their excellent MICE facilities, but take things a step further by offering rich cultural resources to add local flavour to events and to immerse participants in their respective traditions.

Four points of consideration

Based on her company’s experiences, Li shared four key factors that need to be considered when choosing a MICE venue or destination:

• Safety and security of both organisers and participants need to come first, so locations where political instability is rife are automatically removed from any list of potential venues. The same goes for areas where the health of participants may be compromised due to the possibility of contagion;
• Convenience in terms of infrastructure, transportation, and connectivity are all key, as these enable event participants to get to venues on time, go through these venues hassle-free, and spread the word to their colleagues back home through email or social media. Convenience also means accessible facilities for differently-abled participants;
• Cultural offerings spell the difference between a conventional and staid event done within the confines of four walls, and an immersive experience that blends corporate dealings with local flavour to provide a more interesting take on conferences or exhibitions; and
• Cost-effectiveness matters; companies want to make the most of their budgets and this means looking at the most reasonably priced options, and keeping tabs on fluctuating exchange rates.

The post Global demand for MICE services is stronger than ever appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Hotel101 Global signs joint venture agreement with the Horizon Group appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Philippine hospitality firm Hotel101 Global recently signed a joint venture partnership with Horizon Group (Horizon) as the main partner for its expansion into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The company seeks  to introduce the fast-growing Hotel101 Brand and develop up to 10,000 rooms at the establishment which is expected to translate to about US$2.5 billion in project value. 

Five initial locations have already been identified for Hotel101 Projects, the first of which is intended to be located in Medina, followed by Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, and Alula.

Inspired by leadership

Hotel101 Global founder Edgar “Injap” Sia II remarked: “We are inspired by the leaders of Saudi Arabia and their sheer determination and will power to make things happen, as such, we are confident in the plans they have laid out for the region and we believe the Hotel101 concept will be able to make a significant contribution in terms of room keys to complement the 2030 Vision for the Kingdom, and to form part of our global vision of one million Hotel101 rooms worldwide.”

Hotel 101 chief executive Hannah Yulo-Luccini added: “We feel very fortunate to have found the right local partners to rapidly expand the Hotel101 brand in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is one of the 25 countries we have identified for the initial expansion of Hotel101. We see tremendous opportunities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia given the high growth in tourism both domestic and international. We believe Saudi Arabia will be one of the most exciting markets for Hotel101 globally.”

For his part, Horizon Group chief executive Abdulrahman Sharbatly said: “With Hotel 101’s rapid-build model and Horizon’s local know-how, we will add 10,000 quality, affordable rooms across the Kingdom, supporting Vision 2030, creating Saudi jobs, and expanding options for pilgrims, tourists, and business travelers alike.”

Shared visions

Hotel101 recognizes the strategic opportunities presented by the Saudi market and its Vision 2030 plan. 

That said,Hotel101 is committed to rolling out a standardized and predictable Hotel offering on average 500 rooms per site which can cater to the evolving and growing demands of the Saudi market.

In 2023, Saudi Arabia welcomed 27 million international tourists and 79 million domestic tourists breaching the 100 million visitor mark. 

A total spend of USD 67 billion showcased the robust tourism sector of Saudi Arabia. 

This is in line with the target of reaching over 150m tourists by 2030. This provides substantial opportunities in support services and infrastructure in areas such as Hotels, Shopping, F&B, and transportation.

The post Hotel101 Global signs joint venture agreement with the Horizon Group appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Abercrombie & Kent marks 35 years of expedition cruising with three new voyages appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Global luxury travel firm Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) celebrates its 35th year in the expedition cruise scene with three new voyages for 2026. 

From the rugged coasts of the British Isles and the pristine Arctic wilderness of Svalbard to the sun-drenched archipelagos of French Polynesia, these new itineraries are designed to offer immersive discovery, unrivaled comfort, and the expertise for which A&K is renowned.

A&K’s 2026-2027 portfolio features 15 Expedition Cruises across the Arctic, Antarctica, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean Sea, and remote islands of the Pacific Ocean. 

Each voyage is elevated by A&K’s acclaimed Expedition Team, whose deep expertise and local knowledge ensure every journey is as enlightening as it is extraordinary.

Vice-president for expedition cruising Stefan Kredel said of the voyages: “We have drawn on our more than three decades of expedition cruising expertise to design itineraries that reach far beyond the usual cruise routes – to places like St Kilda, Britain’s most remote point in the North Atlantic or the Marquesas in French Polynesia, which offers varied experiences from local communities, breathtaking snorkelling and scenic, challenging hikes. These are transformative adventures in places that few experience, all elevated by A&K’s signature style.”

Where adventure meets luxury

What was once an intrepid way to observe wildlife in remote destinations has since been transformed into a luxury adventure, offering an unprecedented level of comfort and access across these new voyages for 2026.

Exploring the Wild Coasts of the British Isles (26th May to 5th June 2026)

Experience the British Isles on an expedition beyond the familiar aboard Le Champlain. Starting from Portsmouth, guests will discover the WWII history of Guernsey, wander through the gardens of the Isles of Scilly in full bloom this time of year, birdwatch for puffins off the coast of Wales, hike the wild Scottish Hebrides and sample whisky in the Orkney archipelago. Explore smaller, lesser visited sites via Zodiacs, making it a true expedition-style experience.

An Arctic Wildlife Expedition in Svalbard (3rd to 11th July 2026)

Venture north of the Arctic Circle to Svalbard, a remote cluster of Norwegian islands sculpted by glaciers, cloaked in tundra and surrounded by pristine waters where whales, seals and walruses thrive. Cruise aboard exclusively chartered Le Lyrial, guided by A&K’s acclaimed Expedition Team, for a pure nature experience. Embark on Zodiac excursions alongside naturalist guides, in search of arctic wildlife, like walruses, reindeer, foxes and birds. Make the most of the midnight sun and enjoy the seasonal flowers in bloom this time of year.

Cruising French Polynesia: Tahiti and Beyond (18th September to 4th October 2026)

Dive deep into the diverse cultures and untouched islands of the intriguing island nation, French Polynesia, aboard Le Jacques-Cartier. Meet local craftspeople who keep artisanal traditions alive and go ashore on an uninhabited atoll on the Tuamoto Islands. Trek to secluded waterfalls, pay a visit to Paul Gauguin’s final resting place, and set out in search of tiki, petroglyphs and other archaeological relics on the remote Marquesas. Visit pearl farms, snorkel with blacktip reef sharks, stingrays, and other marine life, or simply relax on the pristine beaches of this idyllic paradise.

The post Abercrombie & Kent marks 35 years of expedition cruising with three new voyages appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post IATA to hold 81st Annual General Meeting in New Delhi appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 81st IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the 2025 World Air Transport Summit (WATS have been slated for 1st to 3rd June in New Delhi, India.

This event will bring in leaders of the global aviation industry, and India’s Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, is expected to deliver a keynote address to delegates.

Likewise, IndiGo is the host airline for the upcoming AGM which was last held in India in 1983. 

It is estimated that up to 1,700 participants will be in attendance, including industry leaders, government officials and media.

Back to India

IATA director-general Willie Walsh expressed delight at bringing the AGM back to India after more than four decades, citing the significant role played by the country in the global aviation sector.

Walsh said: “India’s place in global aviation has changed dramatically, particularly over the last decade. The country has seen record aircraft orders, impressive growth, and world class infrastructure developments. The AGM will allow aviation leaders and journalists from around the world to witness first-hand how India’s rapidly modernizing and expanding aviation sector is contributing to the country’s overall economic and social development.”

At present, the Indian aviation industry directly employs 369,700 people, generating $5.6 billion of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). 

When indirect, induced, and tourism impacts are included, the totals rise to 7.7 million jobs and $53.6 billion of the GDP.

IndiGo chief executive and chair of the IATA Board of Governors Pieter Elbers went so far as to say that this is India’s time.

As Elbers puts it: “Aviation is a powerful force for good worldwide, and that is particularly evident in India. India’s aviation market is rapidly thriving while significantly contributing to the country’s socio-economic growth and IndiGo is at the forefront of this upward trajectory. IndiGo is proud to invite the IATA AGM back to India, and we look forward to showcasing the exciting developments in this market and the warm hospitality of India, during this global mega-event.”

What’s on for WATS 2025?

WATS, which follows immediately after the AGM, will address key issues facing the aviation industry.

Walsh said: “The AGM is always a moment for the industry to reflect and regroup in the face of enormous economic, geopolitical and technological forces ahead. I’m confident this gathering will deliver value to our stakeholders and strengthen our commitment to progress and collaboration.”

The popular CEO Panel moderated by CNN’s Richard Quest will feature:

• Pieter Elbers, CEO, IndiGo
• Joanna Geraghty, CEO, JetBlue
• Adrian Neuhauser, CEO, Abra Group
• Richard Smith, COO International, and CEO Airline, FedEx

 Key topics to be addressed at WATS include:

• The financial outlook for the airline industry
• How India is strategically using aviation to drive development
• The relationship between energy security, renewable energy and Sustainable Aviation Fuel production
• Financing aviation net zero
• The cost of payment and potential innovations
• The view of the Chief Operations Officer

A key highlight of the programme will be the sixth edition of the IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards. 

These awards recognize individuals and organizations who are advancing gender balance in the industry through the 25by2025 initiative.

The post IATA to hold 81st Annual General Meeting in New Delhi appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Retrospective: ITB China 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

ITB China, one of the largest travel trade conferences in the Asia Pacific, formally closed the doors on its sixth edition yesterday, 29th May.

We at Travel Daily Media were honoured to be among the media partners for this milestone event which brought in several thousand participants to Shanghai to take part in detailed discussions regarding the tourism sector and the attendant industries of aviation, travel, hospitality, technological development, and finance.

In this feature, we list a number of observations we had from the floor throughout our coverage of the event which technically began the evening of Monday, 26th May, with a welcome gala honouring Malaysia which was this year’s partner destination.

China first and foremost

While it’s one of the biggest in the region and features a significant number of global tourism boards, airlines, and hotel management companies, ITB China really plays to local travel agencies and hospitality providers.

One good thing about this is that it enables domestic destinations such as this year’s location-in-focus Hubei Province to shine before both local and foreign participants.

Indeed, this China-first approach enabled Hubei, Guangxi, Beijing, Shanghai, Sichuan, and Hong Kong to bring their best and brightest offerings to interested tourism and travel professionals through exhibitions, some modicum of retail, cultural performances, and key events such as signings with upcoming trade and development partners.

However, this also meant that there was a definite language barrier when it came to symposia and panel discussions, as up to 90 percent were Mandarin only.

Unfortunately, AI, simultaneous, and delayed translation methods used during these gatherings literally lost a good deal of the context that would have been important to foreign experts and buyers.

Cultural promotion and using culture for promotion

While facts and figures are interesting enough to professionals, nothing beats immersive experiences to draw crowds to a booth, and several tourism boards delivered this in spades.

Many national displays attracted participants with specialities from their home countries: spiced coffee and dates from Saudi Arabia, for example, as well as the aromatic brews of Brazil, tea and traditional sweets from several Chinese provinces, mint tea from the Moroccans, and both coffee and traditional bread from the Ethiopians.

There were also displays of traditional craftwork as seen above in the Arabic script calligraphy attraction of the Morocco booth, as well as the vibrant woolwork presented by the Peruvians.

Traditional songs and dances also brought crowds to different parts of the hall, from the ululating chants of Arabic nations and the graceful dances of China, to Malaysian ballads sung live at the Tourism Malaysia booth and people joining dance sessions at the booths of several African nations.

Who was at ITB China 2025?

Middle Eastern and African destinations made up the majority of exhibitors, though European nations remained well-represented with Greece, Georgia, Italy, Spain, and Portugal taking up nearly a third of the exhibition hall.

Interestingly, with the exception of Malaysia which is the partner destination for this year, there was a notable absence of Southeast Asian participants.

This was particularly intriguing, given how ASEAN countries like the Philippines and Indonesia were there in full force at the Macao International Travel Expo back in April of this year, and also given how places like Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos are among the countries projected to receive a sizeable number of Chinese travellers by the end of this year.

As mentioned, Brazil and Peru brought some significant South American flavour to ITB China 2025, and their national displays brought in a good number of potential buyers who wished to offer their clients a taste of the far side of the world.

But given this development, North American destinations were also sorely underrepresented, with only the Los Angeles Tourism Board exhibiting and their space was small compared to others.

Traditional travel agencies still did a roaring trade

Considering the bright, bold, even flashy displays of dominant online travel platforms such as this year’s primary sponsor Trip.com, we noticed that collective booths shared by traditional travel agencies were doing very well for themselves throughout the three days of the event.

While most did not offer souvenirs or brilliant gimmicks, travel buyers were actively moving from their spaces to those of the hotel industry and aviation sector, making contacts and cutting deals whenever possible.

This calls to mind one of our previous features which cited the enduring relevance of physical travel agencies that offer trips planned through human interaction despite the convenience offered by OTAs.

The post Retrospective: ITB China 2025 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Shoory: The future of Chinese outbound travel definitely looks promising appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tourism Economics’ head of tourism analysis in the Asia Pacific Michael Shoory opines that China’s outbound travel sector is set to grow significantly beyond the current decade.

Speaking at the recently concluded ITB China 2025, Shoory declared that the global travel sector is entering a growth phase, though it will still be subject to both risks and uncertainty.

Against this background, the Chinese outbound travel sector will continue its post-pandemic recovery, albeit at a much slower pace; indeed, as of 2024, China’s outbound traveller figures are still 25 percent under the total last seen in 2019.

Consequently, the growth of China’s outbound travel sector stands to have significant impact on global tourism as a whole, given how the country is the largest source market for many nations.

Per Tourism Economics’ most recent reports, Chinese travellers in general accounted for 24 percent of those visiting Asia Pacific destinations in 2019, as well as seven percent of the global outbound traveller population.

Excluding those from the special autonomous regions of Hong Kong and Macau, mainlanders made up 18 percent of those travelling into APAC and five percent of those travelling globally.

Factors that could influence Chinese outbound travel

Moving forward, Shoory cited several key factors that will influence the growth of China’s outbound travel sector from now till the end of the current decade and beyond.

On the economic side, the impact of the current US tariffs as well as shifting bilateral trade and tourism policies is already driving Chinese tourists to consider options beyond that particular market, with a rising number making their way to the Middle East and North Africa, though both Southeast Asia and Europe remain popular for their respective range of destinations.

Indeed, based on recent interviews we conducted at ITB China, the number of Chinese travellers to the Middle East and North Africa has grown significantly over the past few years, and measures such as an increased number of direct flights to the region, MICE, retail travel, and sports tourism are drawing even greater numbers.

The continuing rise of the Chinese middle class is also seen as a potential game-changer, seeing how those who previously only travelled domestically now find themselves with enough funds with which to explore the world.

Also, global peace and order in light of ongoing conflicts in several parts of the world are a primary consideration that many take into account whilst planning their trips.

All these considered, Shoory believes: “China’s outbound travel sector will outpace everyone else’s by the end of the decade. By 2030, China will get a larger share of the global market, possibly going on equal footing with India, or even surpassing them in numbers.”

Where the Chinese have gone, and where are they going

It is interesting to note that APAC destinations are still receiving Chinese tourists in droves, with Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and Malaysia on top as their favoured destinations in the region.

While inbound totals have dwindled for Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore in the past year, Chinese travellers are still making their way to those three Southeast Asian nations in significant numbers.

By next year, however, Shoory’s report forecasts that Chinese travellers will opt to go to Vietnam, Taiwan, Cambodia, India, the Philippines, and Laos as their APAC targets, as well as Germany and the United Kingdom as their western destinations of choice.

Nevertheless, Shoory pointed out that the Middle East will be the area to watch as greater numbers of Chinese tourists make their way over to locations like Dubai and Doha, and the upcoming implementation of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)’s Grand Tours Visa will also have a role to play in boosting totals by 2027.

The post Shoory: The future of Chinese outbound travel definitely looks promising appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post EKFC advances fleet modernisation programme with investment in 53 aircraft catering trucks appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) has inked an agreement with Mallaghan, Al-Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company (FAMCO) and Volvo to purchase 53 aircraft catering trucks, an investment of AED 60 million (USD $16 million), as part of its extensive ground fleet renewal programme, under which EKFC plans to introduce 120 next-generation vehicles over 5 years. In total, 92 aircraft catering trucks will be added to the EKFC fleet within the next 12 months*, with the first vehicles slated for introduction later this year.

The new Volvo FL 250 4X2 Euro 6 aircraft catering trucks will feature advanced sensors and monitoring systems to enhance efficiencies on the ground for loading and unloading tasks, in addition to improving overall emissions reductions with the adoption of the latest Euro diesel engine technologies.

EKFC will also closely collaborate with Mallaghan, FAMCO and Volvo Trucks on a Proof-of-Concept electric aircraft catering truck, the first in the catering provider’s fleet, and a regional first in sustainable aviation catering equipment. The electrified aircraft catering truck will be optimised for ground catering operations at Dubai International, putting EKFC at the forefront of testing and prototyping the latest technologies and laying the groundwork for emission-free ground catering operations in the coming years with fleet electrification and automation.  The electric aircraft catering truck is expected to begin operating by the summer of 2026.

Shahreyar Nawabi, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Flight Catering said: “We are excited to embark on the complete modernisation of our fleet of aircraft catering trucks. This fleet investment is a key part of our broader strategy to implement industry leading initiatives, keep pace with ever-growing demand, and strengthen EKFC’s value proposition to our airline customers as a dedicated culinary partner delivering exceptional operational performance at our busy Dubai hub.  It also reflects our strong confidence in the long-term growth prospects and continued market leadership of Dubai’s aviation sector.

We’re also investing in the latest technologies and working closely with Mallaghan and Volvo Trucks to empower a future towards a fully electrified aircraft catering truck fleet, enabling us to reduce our carbon footprint while continuing to deliver top-notch operational performance on the ground. The integration of the first electric aircraft catering truck next summer will mark a milestone for EKFC, reinforcing our commitment to more sustainable operations and pushing the boundaries of innovation.”

Ronan Mallaghan, Chief Executive Officer at Mallaghan, commented: “We are pleased to partner with Emirates Flight Catering in this landmark fleet renewal, delivering its largest ever order of high loaders and introducing the first electric high loader of its kind to the region.

This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and a more sustainable future for aviation ground support. The inclusion of a Proof-Of-Concept electric unit marks an exciting step toward the broader electrification and modernisation of airport operations across the GCC.”

Ramez Hamdan, Managing Director Al-Futtaim Industrial Equipment said: “Securing this milestone agreement with Emirates Flight Catering marks a proud chapter in FAMCO’s journey toward a more sustainable future. By partnering to introduce the region’s first electric Volvo truck at Dubai Airport, alongside 52 advanced Euro 6 trucks, we are not just enhancing fleet capability, we are delivering on ESG priorities through real-world impact: reducing emissions, promoting responsible logistics, and enabling long-term value. Together, we’re setting a new standard for green mobility and operational excellence in the region.”

Christine Sandgren, Acting Managing Director, Volvo Trucks Middle East & Turkey said: “We are proud to be the trusted partner to Emirates Flight Catering as they prepare for the future expansion of operations in DXB and later at Al Maktoum Airport. This agreement is a strong endorsement of Volvo Trucks’ commitment to sustainable transport solutions and our core values of quality, safety, and environmental care. Together with our long-standing partner FAMCO, whose dedication and on-ground support have been instrumental, we are driving real progress through innovation in alternative fuels and automation. These are not just technological advancements; they are vital steps toward building a more resilient and environmentally responsible transport ecosystem in the Middle East.”

EKFC currently operates a fleet of 300 aircraft catering trucks, one of the largest in the world, ensuring the highest levels of aircraft handling to deliver quality inflight dining experiences for more than 100 airline customers at Dubai International Airport.

Emirates Flight Catering is the largest culinary facility of its kind, covering 160,000 sqm with a production capacity of over 250,000 meals per day serving more than 100 airline customers in Dubai, in addition to events catering, food production and lounge catering services.

The post EKFC advances fleet modernisation programme with investment in 53 aircraft catering trucks appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post AlUla’s Hotels Offer a Sanctuary of Unique Wellness Experiences this Summer appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

AlUla, a captivating region of ancient wonders and dramatic landscapes in north-western Saudi Arabia, is fast emerging as a premier destination for transformative wellness experiences.   Beyond its historical significance and breathtaking scenery, AlUla’s hotels and resorts are pioneering spa treatments as unique and enriching as the destination itself. Here are five experiences to try this Summer to elevate your wellness journey like nowhere else:

1) AlUla Essence Massage 

Inspired by the healing elements of the Arabian desert, this signature massage at Our Habitas AlUla uses locally sourced ingredients such as Moringa Peregrina, frankincense, and mastika to soothe aches, calm the body, and promote balance. Complemented by the placement of warm AlUla rocks to clear energy pathways, the treatment offers a holistic journey to well-being.

Located at Thuraya Wellness at Our Habitas AlUla

2) Moringa Candlelight Massage

This is a unique treatment that harnesses the power of Moringa Peregrina Tree Oil. Infused within the candle, this nourishing oil works to reduce inflammation and accelerate healing. As the candle melts, the warm oil is used in a soothing massage that relieves tight muscles, reduces tension, and improves circulation. The inherent goodness of the Moringa Peregrina Tree Oil further nourishes the skin and provides aromatherapy benefits, contributing to a holistic and deeply relaxing experience.

Located at Dalila Spa, Dar Tantora The House Hotel

3) Al Tajdid Al Arabi Exfoliation 

Experience the rejuvenating power of the Arabian desert with this unique exfoliation treatment at Our Habitas AlUla. Enriched with locally sourced Prickly Pear and Date Seed Oil, this treatment is brimming with vitamins that stimulate collagen production, reduce dark spots from sun damage, and leave your skin feeling healthy, nourished, and glowing.

Located at Thuraya Wellness at Our Habitas AlUla

4) The Royal Banyan Experience 

Escape to the tranquil Ashar Valley and indulge in the Royal Banyan Experience at Banyan Tree Spa. This signature treatment blends Eastern and Western techniques, enhanced by a warm herbal pouch steeped in aromatic sesame oil, to ease muscle aches, stimulate circulation, and calm the mind. A luxurious, holistic experience that nourishes body and soul.

Located at Banyan Tree Spa at Banyan Tree AlUla

5) The Summer Icebath

Immerse yourself in AlUla’s refreshing approach to summer wellness with The Summer Icebath – a one-day experience taking place on 20 June. This unique and revitalising session invites you to embrace the contrast of desert heat and icy plunge, all set against the breathtaking sandstone cliffs of Our Habitas AlUla. Thoughtfully curated with detox water, dates, yoga mats, and expert instruction, every element is designed to awaken the senses, boost circulation, and leave you feeling deeply restored.

Located at Our Habitas AlUla

Plan Your Summer Escape to AlUla
This summer, AlUla invites UK visitors to discover a destination where timeless beauty meets modern luxury. With cool desert evenings, breathtaking views, and a vibrant calendar of concerts, wellness sessions, and adventure experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Take advantage of exclusive seasonal offers, including up to 40% off at AlUla’s stunning resorts and boutique hotels – perfect for those seeking relaxation, exploration, or a bit of both.

UK visitors can fly to AlUla via layover in major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Dubai, and Doha, alongside seasonal routes from Manama and Amman, experiencing AlUla is now more accessible than ever.

 

 

The post AlUla’s Hotels Offer a Sanctuary of Unique Wellness Experiences this Summer appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Flynas launches direct flights between Riyadh and Damascus from 5th June appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Flynas announced launching direct flights Between Riyadh and Damascus as of 5 June, adding the Syrian capital to its ever-growing network within the framework of the company’s regional expansion, to meet travellers needs and to enhance air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and the countries of the region, and in line with the national objectives in the aviation sector in the Kingdom.

Adding Damascus to flynas ever-expanding network is the latest step in its growth and expansion plan, launched under the title “We Connect the World to the Kingdom,” in parallel with the objectives of the National Civil Aviation Strategy to enable national air carriers to contribute to connecting KSA with 250 International destinations and to accommodate 330 million passengers and to host 150 million tourists yearly by 2030 and the objectives of the Pilgrims Experience Program (PEP) to facilitate access to the Two Holy Mosques.

Bander Almohanna, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of flynas, said: “We are pleased to resume our flights to Syria. flynas has always been a pioneer in providing air routes between the Kingdom and various Syrian cities. We previously operated direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to Damascus, Aleppo, and Latakia, reaffirming our commitment to strengthening the connectivity between the two brotherly nations. Now, we are returning to relaunch our operations to the Syrian capital.”

flynas operates 139 routes to more than 70 domestic and international destinations in 30 countries with more than 2000 weekly flights and has flown more than 80 million passengers since its launch in 2007, with the aim to reach 165 domestic and international destinations within its growth and expansion plan, and in line with the objectives of Vision 2030.

Passengers traveling with flynas can book their flights through all flynas booking channels: www.flynas.com, the flynas app, the call centre (920001234), or travel agents.

The post Flynas launches direct flights between Riyadh and Damascus from 5th June appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia