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Sabre leaders to offer insights at ITB Berlin 2025

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Sabre Corporation’s leadership team makes their way to ITB Berlin 2025 to provide insights into the evolving travel landscape and showcase its latest innovations in hospitality and travel retailing. 

Sabre executives will take the stage to discuss the future of travel technology, highlighting advancements in personalization, retailing, and the role of AI in delivering seamless and customized experiences for travelers.

Aside from these presentations, technology buyers visiting this year’s event will be able to connect with Sabre at two trade fair booths, one dedicated to its travel distribution business, the other focused on hospitality IT.

Scott Wilson on transformative trends

Sabre Hospitality president Scott Wilson heads to the main stage where he will explore common myths and realities transforming the travel industry’s future via an interactive presentation. 

As technological capabilities, consumer behavior, and sustainability efforts evolve, businesses must navigate widespread assumptions about their impact. 

Wilson seeks to delve into whether personalization truly drives loyalty, how technology is redefining the role of intermediaries, and which industry shifts are likely to have the most significant long-term effects. 

Incorporating audience input, he will provide insights on how travel businesses are adapting to change.

The shifting travel retail scene with Amy Read

Sabre Hospitality vice-president for innovation Amy Read will be taking part in a panel discussion on the evolution of travel retailing. 

As competition intensifies across the travel and hospitality sectors, businesses are adopting new strategies to enhance customer engagement and drive revenue. 

The panel will explore how AI, data-driven insights, and intelligent automation are enabling organizations to deliver seamless and personalized experiences across hotels, airlines, and travel agencies. 

Read will share Sabre’s perspective on how travel companies can use technology to strengthen brand loyalty and unlock new revenue streams in an increasingly digital landscape.

Delving into hyper-personalisation in travel with Madhaven Kasthuri

Sabre Travel Solutions’ head of global solutions engineering Madhaven Kasthuri will introduce and participate in a panel discussion on the future of hyper-personalisation in travel. 

As demand grows for customised experiences, the industry faces the challenge of delivering personalization at scale. 

The panel will examine how AI and automation can be integrated into travel planning and retailing, from individual bookings to complex package and group travel. 

How technology providers and travel companies can balance personalization with operational efficiency while ensuring profitability will also be discussed during the session. 

Presenting fresh innovations for the hospitality sector

Sabre Hospitality will showcase SynXis Retailing, the most comprehensive cloud-based retailing solution in the market, which enables hoteliers to create and sell dynamic, personalized offers beyond the traditional room booking, including standalone products and services that are not bound to a reservation. 

Also, Sabre Hospitality will showcase SynXis Insights, a new data and analytics solution providing real-time business intelligence for hotels. 

Additional highlights include Gift Card and Voucher to drive revenue and guest engagement. 

Attendees will get a first look at prototypes of Sabre’s generative AI-powered tools, designed to enhance guest engagement, and a new payment solution that streamlines transactions for hospitality providers.

Rethinking technological travel solutions

Sabre Travel Solutions, on the other hand, will showcase how Sabre’s multi-source content strategy provides agencies and travel buyers with seamless access to a broad range of content, including NDC, low-cost carriers, and traditional GDS content. 

The team will also demonstrate advanced capabilities for selling and servicing multi-source content including Sabre Red Launchpad, a streamlined, simplified booking solution for new and independent travel agents that integrates seamlessly with Sabre Red 360. 

Other product highlights include Content Services for Lodging, which offers a unified view of hotel content from multiple sources, making it easier to compare rates, availability, and property details; and Sabre Direct Pay, a secure and automated payment solution designed to enhance efficiency and reduce complexity in business-to-business transactions.

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Ovolo Central offers a boutique, funky and fun hotel stay in Hong Kong

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Situated on Arbuthnot Road between SoHo, Tai Kwun and Wyndham Street at the crossroads of Hong Kong Island’s famed nightlife and dining districts is Ovolo Central, one of the leading designer boutique hotels in Hong Kong. Surrounded by renowned restaurants, bars, art galleries and global fashion houses, this unique property channels a modern and funky aesthetic through its edgy design elements, custom-made artworks and luxurious appointments.

Ovolo Central’s exciting hospitality concept pays tribute to the sophisticated and playful hub that Hong Kong Island’s Central District is, and at the same time reflects the city’s East-meets-West heritage. Many of the colonial buildings, temples and markets from the area’s earlier days still exist today, making Central a stimulating place packed with history, art, innovation and energy.

Ovolo Central is the perfect destination for a stimulating, inspirational and inviting stay.

The 40-room hotel is the flagship property of Ovolo Hotels and the Ovolo Group, founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Girish Jhunjhnuwala – or ‘GJ’ – and which has become one of Hong Kong and Australia’s most dynamic and vibrant hospitality brands. The family-owned chain operates three hotels and one restaurant in Hong Kong, and five hotels and several restaurants and bars in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Brisbane.

Also within the Ovolo portfolio of hotels is the By Ovolo Collective. There are four of these distinctive properties, each offering their own unique accommodation experience – in Hong Kong, Bali, Melbourne and Canberra.

Select Ovolo Hotels and By Ovolo Collective properties are members of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Founder and Executive Chairman Girish wanted not to use the usual cookie-cutter approach of what a hotel ‘should’ be like, but rather to create hotels where he personally would love to stay. And thus began the Ovolo Group’s hotels – ever-evolving, boutique, funky and fun.

Befitting its well-earned status as a leading name among designer boutique hotels in Hong Kong, Ovolo Central serves up a banquet of deep colour, modern art pieces and unique wallpaper in its design. Works by Artist Rancinan are showcased in the lobby and select guestrooms and suites. Greeting guests at first entrance into the lobby with a message of love and peace, is Einstein, the street-art inspired painting by Mr. Brainwash.

Adding to the hotel’s ambiance is Radio Ovolo, that plays 80s rock and pop classics in the surrounding public areas.

Rooms With Character

The resplendent design and aesthetic of Ovolo Central continues in fabulous fashion throughout the property’s guestrooms, which come in the categories of Platinum and Gold and the rooftop Radio Suite.

Each room is well appointed with a large retractable flat screen smart TV, mini bar, Nespresso machine, phone chargers and additional wall plugs. The hotel also offers complimentary Wi-Fi, and self-service laundry.

Guests who book a stay direct through the Ovolo website enjoy complimentary gym access, and their first drink at the daily Apero Hour is complimentary too.

Fit For Rock Royalty

The signature rooftop Radio Suite is designed to cater to the everyday rock star. A stylish collision of art, music and pop culture, the one-of-a-kind 700 sq ft suite is the ideal abode for blending a bit of work with a whole lot of play, and boasts a view overlooking Tai Kwun and SoHo. Its bedroom comes with an extra plush king-size bed, walk-in closet and deluxe ensuite, while the separate lounge and dining area has a bar, a sublime velvet couch and original artwork.

Plant-forward Cuisine At Veda

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Ovolo Central’s Veda is a vegetarian restaurant inspired by modern Indian homes around the world. It serves coffee, cocktails and delicious dishes that are lovingly created by the chefs and which champion the ‘vibrant vegetable’, are minimally processed, rich in flavour and simplistic by nature. The plant-forward menu changes seasonally and tempts guests with dishes both familiar and original, encouraging a culinary exploration into the world of vegetables. Veda is also committed to giving back to the Earth, and minimises waste in the kitchen and uses sustainable materials and  practices wherever possible.

PURE Fitness Gym, Fitness Classes

Ovolo Central guests can keep up their regular fitness routine or simply fit in a workout whenever the mood arises, with complimentary access to two nearby locations of leading Hong Kong gym PURE Fitness. These are PURE Fitness Kinwick Centre and PURE Fitness California Tower. Complimentary fitness classes can also be enjoyed.

Intimate Meetings For B.I.G Ideas

The contemporary meeting space B.I.G is ideal for small to medium sized meetings and occasions where comfort is a desired element. With a large flat screen TV, built-in speaker system and private balcony, it’s especially perfect for intimate events such as birthday celebrations, anniversaries and professional seminars. For even more intimacy, the Radio Suite is fantastic for a party or social event.

Experience for yourself a stay at Ovolo Central, and make a booking through the hotel’s website, or call +852 3755 3000.

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Arab Aviation Summit 2025 set to unveil Saudi Arabia’s $100 billion aviation vision in Riyadh

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The 12th Arab Aviation Summit (AAS) is set to take place on February 17-18, 2025, in Riyadh, bringing together key industry leaders to discuss the future of aviation in the Arab world. Recognized as the “voice of the industry”, the summit serves as a bridge between the public and private sectors, shaping policies and investments that drive the aviation and tourism landscape in the region.

This year’s theme, “Uniting Leaders, Building Tomorrow: Advancing Global Aviation,” reflects Saudi Arabia’s ambitious aviation strategy, backed by a $100 billion investment to modernize infrastructure, enhance connectivity, and cement its position as a global aviation hub. With plans to triple passenger traffic, launch new airlines, and develop major airport expansions, the Kingdom is setting the stage for a transformation in global air travel.

The summit will feature an elite lineup of industry leaders, including Gabriel Semelas, President of Africa & Middle East at Airbus; Kamil Al-Awadhi, Regional Vice President of IATA; Abdul Wahab Teffaha, Secretary General of the Arab Air Carriers Organisation (AACO); Majid Khan, CEO of Saudi Air Connectivity Program; and Osamah Alnuaiser, Senior VP of Marketing & Corporate Communications at Riyadh Air. These speakers will provide key insights into aviation policy, sustainability, infrastructure investment, and future technological advancements.

With Riyadh as the host city, the event underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global aviation. The Arab Aviation Summit 2025 aims to foster new collaborations, drive innovation, and position the region at the forefront of aviation modernization and sustainability.

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From Paris to Dubai: Mama Shelter brings fresh, creative vibe to the Middle East

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Dubai’s ever-expanding hospitality sector has welcomed a bold new entrant—the arrival of Mama Shelter, the French-born lifestyle hotel brand renowned for its vibrant energy, eclectic design, and socially driven experiences. Marking its first foray into the Middle East, the 19th global outpost of Mama Shelter has officially opened its doors in Business Bay, adding a fresh, unconventional twist to Dubai’s increasingly competitive hotel landscape.

While Dubai is home to some of the most opulent hotels in the world, with over 820 hospitality establishments and nearly 150,000 hotel rooms, Mama Shelter is taking a different approach. Instead of competing in a “Star Wars battle” for six- and seven-star hotels, the brand aims to redefine hospitality by focusing on creativity, community, and inclusivity.

“In Dubai, at a time when all the world’s luxury hotels compete in a ‘Star Wars’ battle for five, six, or even seven stars, with marble and thick carpets, Mama Shelter has simply chosen to settle here, preserving its soul and character,” said Serge Trigano, co-founder of Mama Shelter. “A magical and relaxed place, open to everyone—locals, expatriates, businesswomen and men, and tourists—who will come to enjoy and experience this vibrant city-state.”

Founded in 2008 by the Trigano family, the same visionaries behind Club Med, Mama Shelter quickly gained recognition for its rebellious yet accessible luxury, breaking traditional hospitality norms by creating playful, design-forward, and socially engaging spaces. From its original location in Paris to Los Angeles, London, and Rome, the brand has always prioritized affordability without sacrificing personality, and now it brings its unique energy to Dubai.

Dubai’s hospitality market is projected to grow to USD 69.57 billion by 2030, with a 5.46% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). With the rise of lifestyle-driven hotels catering to modern travelers, Mama Shelter is stepping in at the perfect time to tap into Dubai’s young, socially connected audience seeking more than just a place to stay.

A Hub for Creativity, Work, and Social Connection

Located in the heart of Business Bay, Mama Shelter Dubai offers 197 design-forward rooms, each with premium bedding, organic amenities, and complimentary films. The hotel features CineMama, an open-air cinema, and four outdoor pools, blending relaxation with entertainment. For professionals and creatives, Mama Shelter provides five ateliers—coworking and event spaces designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

“Mama Shelter is not just a hotel; it’s a movement,” said Cédric Gobilliard, COO of Mama Shelter. “Dubai is a city of bold vision and cultural diversity, a perfect match for Mama Shelter’s ethos of equality, freedom, and social harmony. This space is designed to inspire, connect, and celebrate people from all walks of life.”

A Strategic Move for Khamas Hospitality

The arrival of Mama Shelter Dubai is a significant milestone for Khamas Hospitality, which has been actively expanding its portfolio with innovative, forward-thinking brands. “It brings us immense pride to unveil the first flagship Mama Shelter in the Middle East,” said Pawan Kachroo, Managing Director at Khamas Hospitality. “This marks a monumental milestone for us, adding another evolutionary brand to our portfolio. Our vision, aligned with Dubai’s commitment to vibrancy, innovation, and elegance, has created this modern and unconventional hospitality experience.”

As Dubai continues to diversify its tourism offerings, lifestyle-driven hospitality brands like Mama Shelter are reshaping the city’s hotel scene. With its emphasis on affordable luxury, creative energy, and social connection, Mama Shelter Dubai offers a refreshing contrast to the city’s high-end hotels, proving that hospitality isn’t just about five-star amenities—it’s about experience, engagement, and a sense of belonging.

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Morocco smashes tourism records with 1.2 million visitors in January

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Morocco’s tourism sector is off to a record-breaking start in 2025, welcoming 1.2 million visitors in January alone—a 27% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy. This marks the first time Morocco has crossed the one-million visitor threshold in January, reinforcing its position as one of North Africa’s most dynamic travel destinations.

This surge comes amid ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure, expanded air connectivity, and a rising global interest in Morocco’s diverse offerings—from ancient medinas and luxury desert resorts to its booming eco-tourism sector. The country’s promotional campaigns, aimed at European, Middle Eastern, and American markets, are yielding impressive results, with increased flights and streamlined visa processes making Morocco more accessible than ever.

The nation’s ability to attract record numbers reflects its evolving travel strategy, blending heritage tourism with cutting-edge experiences. Key destinations like Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca continue to drive strong visitor numbers, while emerging hotspots such as Essaouira, Dakhla, and the Atlas Mountains are drawing adventure seekers, surfers, and wellness tourists.

The Moroccan government has ambitious goals for 2025, with a clear focus on sustainable tourism and a push to further elevate the country’s status as a premier global travel destination. With visitor numbers soaring and infrastructure expanding, Morocco’s upward trajectory shows no signs of slowing down.

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Marriott’s Sheraton enters Al Khobar, strengthening Saudi presence

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Marriott International is bringing its Sheraton brand to Al Khobar for the first time, through a partnership with Aleph Hospitality and Ashaad Company. The 580-room Sheraton Al Khobar Al Hamra, set to open near Al Shbaily Mall, will cater to the growing demand for business and leisure travel in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.

With easy access to the King Fahd Causeway, linking Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, the hotel will feature three distinct dining concepts, state-of-the-art wellness facilities, and expansive event spaces designed for corporate meetings and social gatherings.

“Sheraton has a strong legacy in the Kingdom, and we are excited to expand its footprint in Al Khobar,” said Chadi Hauch, Regional VP of Lodging Development, Marriott International. Meanwhile, Ali bin Mohammed Al Ali, Chairman of Ashaad, emphasized the project’s alignment with Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.

Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hotel management firm in the Middle East and Africa, will oversee operations. The Sheraton Al Khobar Al Hamra is expected to reinforce the city’s reputation as a key commercial and tourism hub.

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Bahrain teams up with Wego to supercharge global tourism appeal

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Bahrain is stepping up its global tourism marketing efforts, partnering with Wego, the Middle East’s leading travel platform, to highlight the Kingdom’s attractions. The collaboration comes at a crucial time, as Bahrain expands its luxury hospitality offerings and cultural tourism experiences.

Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Gulf”, Bahrain is leveraging Wego’s digital reach to showcase top destinations like the UNESCO-listed Bahrain Fort, Bab Al Bahrain Souq, and the Bahrain International Circuit, home to Formula 1. The initiative also highlights eco-tourism efforts, including the preservation of Hawar Islands and pearl diving experiences.

“Bahrain is a treasure trove of cultural and modern attractions,” said Mamoun Hmidan, Chief Business Officer at Wego. Meanwhile, Maryam Toorani, Director of Marketing at Bahrain Tourism Authority, emphasized how this partnership will expand Bahrain’s reach to a broader international audience. With immersive virtual tours, smart tourism solutions, and sustainability initiatives, Bahrain is crafting a tech-forward travel experience, positioning itself as a must-visit destination in the Middle East.

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From 5K to 40K: UAE becomes one of Moscow’s fastest-growing tourism markets

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Moscow, Russia
Moscow, Russia
 

Moscow is setting its sights on an ambitious tourism boom, with the goal of welcoming over 50 million visitors by 2030, according to Bulat Nurmukhanov, Deputy Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee. Speaking at a press meeting in Dubai, Nurmukhanov highlighted the city’s strategic focus on the UAE, emphasizing the rapid growth in Emirati visitors.

In 2022, Moscow saw just 5,000 tourists from the UAE. By the first nine months of last year, that number had surged to over 40,000, a nearly 700% increase. “The Gulf region, especially the UAE, is a key market for us,” Nurmukhanov stated, underlining Moscow’s commitment to maintaining this momentum.

The Moscow delegation, including federal and foreign affairs representatives, expressed gratitude to Emirati businesses and travel operators for their role in strengthening Moscow’s tourism appeal. Mayor Sergey Sobyanin’s vision aligns with this push, setting a target to double annual tourist arrivals by 2030.

As Moscow positions itself as a premier global travel destination, stronger tourism ties with the UAE signal new opportunities for cultural and business exchanges, shaping the future of tourism in the Russian capital.

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Virtual Safari: OurAfrica.Travel sets new course for tourism in 2025

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When Storm Napier and Allie Hunt launched OurAfrica.Travel during the pandemic in 2020, few could have predicted how this virtual platform would transform African tourism networking. Now, as they prepare for their 2025 edition scheduled for February 17-21, the platform stands as the continent’s premier virtual travel trade show.

“The show was born through the pandemic when we were looking for ways to connect Africa and the Indian Ocean islands back to the wonderful trade around the world,” explains Hunt during our exclusive interview. What started as a crisis response has evolved into an innovative solution for connecting African tourism suppliers with global buyers.

“African tourism has shown remarkable resilience,” notes Napier. “This virtual show isn’t about replacing traditional trade shows – it’s about complementing them. We’re creating additional touchpoints that strengthen existing relationships and forge new ones.”

The 2025 edition promises enhanced interactivity, maintaining the platform’s unique selling point – allowing participants to connect from their preferred location and time zone through carefully scheduled 20-minute meetings. This format has proven particularly effective for bridging the geographical divide between African suppliers and international buyers.

A notable addition to this year’s program is the pre-show Spotlight Webinar Week. “We’re tackling crucial industry topics,” Napier shares. “From the role of AI in travel to the power of storytelling in tourism marketing, these sessions will equip participants with insights and tools to navigate the evolving tourism landscape.”

The 2025 show will connect exceptional African and Indian Ocean Island suppliers with global buyers, facilitating strategic discussions and updates in a convenient, accessible format. For an industry that once relied heavily on physical trade shows, OurAfrica.Travel demonstrates how digital innovation can create new opportunities for tourism growth and collaboration.

Recent trends in African travel have shown a marked shift towards more purposeful journeys. “We’re seeing a surge in active holidays and conservation-focused experiences,” Hunt explains. “Travelers aren’t just visiting Africa; they’re engaging with its wildlife, contributing to conservation efforts, and seeking meaningful connections with local communities.”

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DBS Hong Kong offers clients DBS Culinary Delights

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DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited (DBS Hong Kong) reveals its latest marketing and customer engagement initiative: DBS Culinary Delights. 

As a leading player in wealth management and private banking, DBS always looks at trends that drive behaviours of its customers. 

With wealth management customers becoming more selective and aspirational, DBS seeks to provide them with more customised solutions, advisory services, and personal touches. 

Also, as Hong Kong continues to be a gourmet paradise for locals and tourists, DBS aims to celebrate the art of gastronomy with its customers through DBS Culinary Delights, introducing the best culinary experiences in the city.

DBS Hong Kong CEO and head of North Asia Sebastian Paredes said: “DBS has grown substantially in the Wealth Management space over the years. As a customer-centric and relationship-focused bank, we focus on delighting our customers by creating the best-in-class customer journeys and giving them an experience beyond banking. We look forward to connecting with our clients meaningfully and this unprecedented collaboration shall deliver fresh and exceptional dining experiences for our esteemed clientele in alignment with the global trend of eating well, eating differently while indulging in culinary art.”

The chef in the spotlight

Acclaimed chef Edward Lee, a standout contestant on Culinary Class War, will debut the DBS Culinary Delights initiative. 

Both Lee and DBS are driven by a commitment to excellence, constantly exploring, innovating, and crafting experiences that move, delight and reward their customers.

Lee is renowned for his creative fusion of Asian and Western cuisines, having received numerous accolades from prestigious culinary organisations. 

He will visit Hong Kong in March to attend the inaugural signature event under the DBS Culinary Delights concept: ARTable, which will artfully marry culinary excellence and artistic inspirations.

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