The post True automated AI in travel is coming: Phocuswright appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The travel industry is on the cusp of a major transformation, driven by the rise of autonomous AI agents, according to a new report from Phocuswright.  These intelligent assistants, capable of learning, adapting, and executing tasks without constant human supervision, have the potential to revolutionize how we plan, book, and experience travel.

In its report, “True Automated AI in Travel Is Coming,” Phocuswright, the leading travel industry research authority, delves into the emergence of autonomous agents and their implications for the future of travel.  The report explores the capabilities of these agents, the potential impact on various industry roles, and the key questions surrounding their adoption and regulation.

“Autonomous AI agents are poised to reshape the travel landscape, automating tasks, personalizing experiences, and potentially even negotiating on our behalf,” said Norm Rose, Senior Technology and Corporate Market Analyst at Phocuswright and co-author of the report.  “While this technology is still in its early stages, its potential to transform the industry is undeniable.  Travel companies need to understand the implications of autonomous agents and prepare for a future where AI plays an increasingly central role.”

Key takeaways from the report include:

 

• Increased efficiency and personalization: Autonomous agents can truly automate the travel booking process, potentially replacing the manual research and booking tasks that travelers currently perform, leading to increased efficiency and personalization.
• Challenges for legacy systems: The increased volume of shopping inquiries generated by autonomous agents could pose challenges for legacy travel systems, requiring the industry to adapt and optimize infrastructure.    The report estimates that autonomous agents could increase the number of shopping calls to travel systems by up to 40%.
• Enhanced personalization: Personalization efforts will be enhanced by autonomous agents, leveraging vast amounts of data to tailor travel recommendations and experiences to individual preferences.
• Ownership and competition: The question of “ownership” of autonomous agents remains open, with tech giants, OTAs, and specialized travel companies all vying for a position in this emerging market.
• Impact on the workforce: The impact on the travel workforce could be significant, with some jobs potentially being replaced by AI while others are augmented and enhanced.  The report suggests that up to 30% of travel agent jobs could be automated by AI agents in the next decade.
• Legal and regulatory concerns: Legal and regulatory concerns surrounding autonomous agents, particularly regarding liability and data privacy, will need to be addressed as the technology matures.

The rise of autonomous agents and other key trends in AI will be further explored at The Phocuswright Conference, taking place November 19-21, 2024, at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix, Arizona.

The session “A glimpse of the new Age(nts)” will delve deeper into where leading AI companies can demonstrate their autonomous agent technology and discuss its potential to transform the travel industry.  Industry experts will provide critical analysis and insights based on their experience at the forefront of AI in travel.

Speakers:

• Div Garg, Co-Founder and CEO, MultiOn
• Humayun Sheikh, CEO, Fetch.ai
• Talkbackers: Noreen Henry, Chief Revenue Officer, Sojern; Terry Jones, Chairman, AMGiNE
• Moderator: Norman Rose, Senior Technology and Corporate Market Analyst, Phocuswright Inc.

 

 

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The post Alipay+ expands partnership with Japan’s PayPay appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Japanese QR payment operator PayPay announced an expanded partnership with Ant International’s cross-border mobile payment solution Alipay+.

The announcement was made on Wednesday, 6th November at the Singapore FinTech Festival 2024.

This expanded partnership seeks to broaden their joint merchant coverage network across Japan. 

By working with local partners including PayPay, Alipay+ will now connect over 3 million local merchants to the global payment ecosystem, enabling local businesses and payment partners to provide global visitors seamless and secure payment and travel experiences with their preferred domestic e-wallets.

Alipay+’s current partner payment app network in Japan includes 16 e-wallets and bank apps, such as Alipay (Chinese mainland), AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR China), MPay (Macao SAR China), South Korea’s Kakao Pay, Naver Pay and Toss, Singapore’s OCBC Digital, Changi Pay and EZ-Link, Malaysia’s Touch ‘n Go eWallet and MyPB by Public Bank Berhad, the Philippines’ GCash and HelloMoney, TrueMoney (Thailand), Hipay (Mongolia), and Tinaba (Italy).

Benefits for merchants and users

Through this expanded partnership, travellers using Alipay+ payment partner apps will be able to scan PayPay QR codes to make payments at a wide range of merchant-presented mode (MPM) stores across Japan, even if the merchants have not yet displayed Alipay+ point of sale materials. 

They can also look forward to special promotions during the upcoming Christmas and New Year travel peak seasons. Alipay+ will collaborate with PayPay merchants to launch a promotional campaign, which will run from 20 December 2024 to 10 January 2025.
Users of participating payment partners, including Alipay, AlipayHK, GCash, Kakao Pay,Toss Pay, Touch ‘n Go eWallet, and TrueMoney, will be offered an exclusive 10 percent discount (up to a maximum of JPY 1,000, CNY 50). 

Tinaba will also provide a 10 percent cashback promotion (up to a maximum of EUR 20). Eligible users may redeem the offer once during the campaign period.

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The post Travel advisories issued in light of volcanic eruption in Indonesia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Several governments across the globe have issued travel advisories warning their nationals to practise caution or call off travel to Indonesia in light of the most recent volcanic eruption and a Magnitude 5 earthquake that hit the country early today, 11th November.

Global disaster monitoring site Crisis24 reported that a magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurred near Indonesia’s Watubela Archipelago at around 07:35 today; its epicentre was about 107 km northwest of Tual, Indonesia.

The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of Maluku and West Papua provinces.

As of press time, there have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage, however, is unlikely.

Crisis24 warned that it could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Also, aftershocks are likely over the coming days, though the event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

Travellers and locals have been advised that officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are also possible where shaking occurred.

Keeping an eye on Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki 

The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) reiterated an earlier warning made on Wednesday, 6th November this morning (1200hrs, SGT):

FCDO now  advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province.

British travellers were likewise warned that their travel insurance could be invalidated if they travel against the FCDO’s advice.

The UK FCDO also warned its nationals against travelling to the following locations:

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, East Nusa Tenggara 

FCDO advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities. Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on 3 November 2024.

Mount Sinabung, North Sumatra

FCDO advises against all travel to within 5km of the Mount Sinabung crater in Karo Regency, North Sumatra. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities.

Mount Marapi, West Sumatra

FCDO advises against all travel to within 3km of the crater of Mount Marapi in West Sumatra. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities.

Mount Semeru, East Java

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• within 5 km of the crater of Mount Semeru in Lumajang Regency, East Java
• the south-east area of Mount Semeru along the Besuk Kobokan river, approximately 13km from the crater, and 500m from any Besuk Kobokan riverbank

These are exclusion zones put in place by the local authorities.

Mount Ruang, Northern Sulawesi

FCDO advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Ruang in Northern Sulawesi. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities. Mount Ruang erupted on 16 April 2024.

Mount Ibu, North Maluku

FCDO advises against all travel to within 7km of the crater of Mount Ibu in North Maluku Province. This is an exclusion zone put in place by the local authorities. Mount Ibu erupted on 6 June 2024.

General warning on political unrest remains

At the same time, foreign travellers have been advised to be cautious during their stay in Indonesia due to the high potential for political unrest, as well as the potential threat of terrorism

The Australian government’s Smartraveller site made this announcement:

We’ve reviewed our advice for Indonesia and continue to advise exercise a high degree of caution. Higher levels apply in some areas.

(Note: This is a developing story. Additional details will be published as soon as available.)

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The post Europe’s Travel Sector shows strong performance in Q3  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The European tourism sector demonstrates a robust performance, surpassing pre-pandemic figures and showcasing resilience despite economic headwinds and geopolitical challenges. The latest research from the European Travel Commission (ETC) highlights a 6% rise in foreign arrivals over 2019 levels and a 7% increase in year-on-year growth. Overnight stays have also grown by 5% year-on-year. The upward trend is driven by major events, improved air connectivity – especially from China – and lingering pent-up demand.

The “European Tourism Trends & Prospects” Q3 2024 report offers insights into the dynamic performance of European tourism during the summer period and provides a comprehensive analysis of the region’s latest tourism and macroeconomic developments.

While headline inflation in Europe has eased, services inflation remains elevated, affecting both tourism businesses and travellers. Prices for international flights in the Euro Area declined in July and saw a slight increase in August, but inflation for accommodation and package holidays continued to surpass overall services inflation. As travellers become increasingly price-conscious, there is a notable shift toward value-driven travel experiences. Overall tourist expenditure across Europe is projected to rise by 10.3% in 2024 compared to 2023 and reach €719.7 billion, with Western Europe accounting for 74% of this total.

Commenting on the publication of this report, ETC President Miguel Sanz, said: “The performance of European tourism in 2024 underscores the sector’s resilience and enduring appeal despite economic pressures. Travellers continue to prioritise holidays, even in the face of rising costs, highlighting the essential role of travel in their lives. Following a busy summer, Europe is actively addressing capacity constraints in popular hotspots by redistributing visitors to more diverse destinations. We aim to alleviate the strain on overburdened areas and ensure that the economic benefits of tourism are shared more equitably. European tourism is not just about rebounding; we need to evolve to secure a sustainable future.”

Southern Mediterranean Europe driving travel demand

Over half of reporting European destinations have exceeded 2019 levels of foreign arrivals, with nearly a third increasing over 10%. Southern Mediterranean destinations showed particularly strong performance, led by Serbia (+34%) and Malta (+32%) – both from a smaller base – followed by Portugal and Greece (each +19%). Türkiye (+16%) faces rising competition as budget-conscious travellers turn to other Mediterranean destinations due to increasing prices.

Recovery is slowest in the Baltics, Finland, Romania, and Slovakia, where declines from 2019 levels range from 24% to 11%. However, year-on-year data in many countries within these sub-regions provides a promising outlook, suggesting that recovery is progressing, albeit at a slower pace than in other areas. Notably, Romania (+12.8%), Latvia (+12.7%), and Estonia (+10.7%) have shown substantial  increases in foreign arrivals compared to 2023 levels.

Resilience in aviation and accommodation sectors

Looking at the industry’s performance, European air travel demand rose by 3.4% over the summer months, despite disruptions like cybersecurity issues and strikes. Frequent air traffic disruptions over the summer involving a number of different European countries are likely to have dampened the recovery across the region. Recent statistics have reported that nearly 40% of passengers in Europe this summer experienced delays or cancellations.

Accommodation performance remains strong, with revenue per available room (RevPAR) in European hotels rising 5.9% year-on-year. Southern and Mediterranean destinations are experiencing the highest growth in daily rates, driven by robust demand despite rising prices. This pattern suggests that, while travellers are more budget-conscious, they are still willing to pay for higher-end experiences during peak travel seasons. Similarly, short-term rentals have surged by 11% as of August 2024 compared to 2023, particularly in France and Italy. This growth represents approximately 479,000 short-term rental units since August 2023.

Balancing tourism distribution across Europe

The report also examines the growing concern of overcrowding, highlighting the uneven distribution of tourism flows across Europe. While the increase in tourism has positively influenced European economies, popular destinations are once again facing capacity constraints and environmental strain, particularly during peak seasons in 2024.

In response to these continued challenges, some countries and cities have been implementing measures to become more resilient to the expected continued rise in tourist volumes. These measures aim to reduce the flow of tourists in concentrated areas, spread tourists out to other destinations across the country and maximise the value they receive from tourism.

In particular, efforts are being made to promote lesser-known destinations, with the aim of redistributing tourist flows and alleviating pressure on overcrowded hotspots. Recent data indicates that arrivals in emerging destinations are increasing, albeit from a smaller base. For instance, Albania has reported a noticeable uptick in visitor numbers, while cities like El Hierro and Sevilla in Spain are experiencing growth that outpaces established tourist destinations like Ibiza and Tenerife.

 

 

 

 

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The post Taychreggan Hotel: A Scottish Jewel in Eight Continents’ Crown appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Nestled on the tranquil shores of Loch Awe, Taychreggan Hotel is not just another luxury destination in Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts’ global portfolio—it is a timeless piece of Scotland’s rich history. This historic 17th-century inn turned luxury retreat invites guests to experience the charm, elegance, and natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands. With Eight Continents owning and managing Taychreggan, this addition marks a pivotal moment for the brand, which is known for its commitment to high standards of hospitality, heritage preservation, and sustainability.

1. A Historic Gem with Modern Luxury

Originally a cattle drover’s inn, Taychreggan’s walls tell stories of centuries past. The painstaking restoration has maintained its architectural heritage, allowing guests to experience the old-world charm without compromising on comfort. Period details blend harmoniously with modern amenities, creating an ambiance that transports guests to another era. Whether relaxing in the cozy rooms with loch views or dining in elegantly appointed spaces, guests find themselves immersed in a blend of history and luxury.

2. A Scenic Escape at Loch Awe

One of Taychreggan’s most captivating features is its stunning location. Situated on the picturesque banks of Loch Awe, Scotland’s third-largest freshwater loch, the hotel offers sweeping vistas of serene waters framed by lush, rolling hills. The natural beauty surrounding Taychreggan enhances its allure as a peaceful retreat, providing an idyllic backdrop for relaxation or exploration. Every room and common area is designed to maximize views of the loch, so guests are never far from Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes.

3. A Variety of Activities for Every Traveler

Taychreggan caters to diverse tastes with an array of activities. For nature lovers, the hotel offers access to hiking trails, fishing excursions, and boating adventures. Guests can also book guided tours, allowing them to explore the Highlands’ hidden gems. Those looking for a quieter escape can take advantage of the wellness spa, which offers relaxation therapies designed to rejuvenate body and mind. This balance of adventure and tranquility is central to the Taychreggan experience.

4. Luxurious, Pet-Friendly Accommodations

The cozy, beautifully designed rooms at Taychreggan feature traditional Scottish decor with modern touches, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. Eight Continents understands the importance of including every member of the family in the travel experience, and Taychreggan welcomes pets with open arms. Each pet-friendly room includes a special “chill-out corner” for furry guests, complete with a complimentary treats box, cozy blanket, and even a personalized welcome card.

5. Gourmet Dining with a View

Food is an integral part of the Taychreggan experience. Faodail Restaurant, the hotel’s acclaimed dining venue, serves award-winning Scottish cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Loch Awe, diners enjoy not only exquisite dishes but also breathtaking scenery. The restaurant prides itself on a menu that celebrates local flavors, seasonal produce, and sustainable sourcing. Guests can also choose private dining options, including a room with loch views adjacent to the main dining area and an intimate space near the Ghillies Bar for smaller gatherings.

 

6. A Perfect Setting for Memorable Events

For special occasions, Taychreggan Hotel offers a grand ballroom with loch views, perfect for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. The ballroom provides access to the scenic gardens, allowing guests to take in the outdoors in an informal yet elegant setting. The hotel staff specializes in tailoring each event to the host’s needs, ensuring every occasion is unique and memorable.

7. A Commitment to Sustainability

With Taychreggan, Eight Continents reinforces its dedication to eco-friendly hospitality. From energy-efficient lighting to water conservation practices, the hotel has embraced sustainability without compromising luxury. The restaurant’s commitment to local ingredients reduces carbon footprint while supporting nearby farmers. Eight Continents is also exploring renewable energy options to further enhance Taychreggan’s environmental stewardship, demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously.

8. Personalized, Bespoke Service

Eight Continents has built its reputation on exceptional service, and Taychreggan Hotel embodies this commitment to personalization. Every guest’s experience is tailored to their preferences, from curated in-room amenities to custom activity plans. The staff, trained in Eight Continents’ renowned service standards, takes pride in ensuring that each guest’s stay is exceptional, bringing warmth and authenticity to the hospitality experience.

9. A Rich Tapestry of Scottish Culture and Eight Continents Excellence

Taychreggan Hotel is more than just a beautiful property; it’s a destination where guests can connect deeply with Scottish heritage. Eight Continents has embraced this legacy with pride, ensuring that guests not only enjoy luxury but also engage with the cultural richness of the Highlands. The blend of historical ambiance, breathtaking nature, gourmet cuisine, and world-class hospitality creates a compelling experience that is quintessentially Scottish and distinctively Eight Continents.

Taychreggan Hotel is a crown jewel in the Eight Continents portfolio, embodying the brand’s vision of preserving unique locations while enhancing their charm through luxurious amenities and sustainable practices. With its enchanting setting, tailored experiences, and blend of heritage and modernity, Taychreggan stands as a testament to the unforgettable journeys that Eight Continents is dedicated to curating around the globe. This exclusive property promises to be a cherished destination for travelers seeking an immersive Scottish escape.

 

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The post IndiGo announces eight new flights this winter appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

IndiGo, India’s preferred airline announces new flights and resumption of operations in its winter schedule to significantly bolster connectivity to East and North-East India.

• Announces exclusive tri-weekly flights between Agartala- Dibrugarh operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, starting from October 29, 2024
• Announces new direct flights between Guwahati- Dimapur and resuming operations between Guwahati- Ahmedabad, operating daily from December 10, 2024
• Announces frequency addition on the Kolkata- Bangkok route, operating 4 times a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, starting from November 24, 2024

IndiGo will operate maiden direct flights connecting Agartala with Dibrugarh. The addition of these new routes and resuming operations will bolster domestic connectivity and provide business and leisure travellers with increased flight options to travel to their preferred destinations across East and Northeast India, thereby enhancing regional accessibility this winter. These new routes will also facilitate trade, commerce, and employment opportunities, further strengthening economic ties between the cities.

 Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo, said: “We are pleased to announce these multiple new routes as a part of our ongoing winter schedule. There’s a surge in demand, and these flights will further strengthen regional connectivity, facilitating economic growth, tourism, and cultural exchange. We do remain committed to providing affordable fares, on-time performance, courteous service, and a hassle-free travel experience across an unparalleled network.”

Agartala, the capital of Tripura, offers a unique blend of lush greenery and rich culture. Home to historical sites like Ujjayanta Palace, it promises visitors a glimpse into its vibrant heritage and captivating natural beauty.

Known as Assam’s “Tea Capital,” Dibrugarh enchants with its expansive tea gardens and the majestic Brahmaputra River. This charming city serves as a gateway to the diverse landscapes of northeastern India, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Kolkata, also known as the City of Joy, is regarded as the educational, commercial, and cultural centre of Eastern India. It is one of the four metropolitan cities in India and has retained its quintessential charm despite modernization.

The bustling capital of Thailand, Bangkok, offers a vibrant mix of modern skyscrapers, historic temples, and lively street markets. Known for its rich culture, visitors can explore the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and indulge in authentic Thai street food. The city’s nightlife, shopping districts, and floating markets create a dynamic atmosphere, making Bangkok a top destination for travellers seeking a blend of tradition and modern experiences.

Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India, is situated along the banks of the Brahmaputra River. This vibrant city is famous for its wildlife sanctuaries, temples, and rich Assamese heritage, making it a key destination for nature and culture enthusiasts.

Dimapur, the largest city in Nagaland, serves as a cultural crossroad with a unique blend of Naga traditions and modern influences. Known for its vibrant markets and historical sites, it offers visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region.

Ahmedabad, the largest city in Gujarat, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and architectural marvels like the Sabarmati Ashram and the intricate stepwells. The city’s bustling markets and delectable street food make it a must-visit for travellers.

Customers who wish to plan their travel can book via our official website www.goIndiGo.in or through our mobile app. The introduction of these flights will further bolster the airline’s domestic and international connectivity.

Flight Schedule:

 

Flight No.	Origin	Destination	Frequency	Effective	Departure	Arrival
6E 0524	Agartala	Dibrugarh	Tue, Thu, Sat	Oct 29, 2024	13:05	14:20
6E 0525	Dibrugarh	Agartala	Tue, Thu, Sat	Oct 29, 2024	15:00	16:25
6E 1914	Kolkata	Bangkok	Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun	Nov 24, 2024	0:35	4:45
6E 1913	Bangkok	Kolkata	Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun	Nov 24, 2024	1:15	2:40
6E 6441	Ahmedabad	Guwahati	Daily	Dec 10, 2024	8:30	11:15
6E 6442	Guwahati	Ahmedabad	Daily	Dec 10, 2024	16:55	20:35
6E 6441	Guwahati	Dimapur	Daily	Dec 10, 2024	13:00	14:00
6E 6442	Dimapur	Guwahati	Daily	Dec 10, 2024	14:30	15:35

 

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The post RCU partners with National Archaeological Museum of Naples appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has signed a new strategic partnership with the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli – MANN) which will see ancient masterpieces from the museum’s collection exhibited in Saudi Arabia, and the region, for the first time.

The newest addition to RCU’s global network of cultural partners, MANN joins leading heritage and educational institutions from the UK, France, China, and Italy enhancing global collaboration in the ongoing conservation, study, and celebration of AlUla’s 200,000 years of shared human history.

A landmark museum in one of Italy’s heritage capitals, MANN was created in 1777 and is now home to some of Europe’s most cherished cultural treasures, including wonderfully conserved Roman and Greek statues, bronzes, frescos, and other remarkable pieces.

The agreement between RCU and MANN paves the way for a specially selected collection of artefacts to be transported from Naples in Southern Italy to AlUla in northwest Arabia for the Masterpieces of the National Archaeological Museum of Naples exhibit.

A total of 15 masterpieces from ancient cities and historic landmarks, such as Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Rome, will be debuted to a regional audience. This will be the first time in the museum’s history that the marbles on exhibition, as well as the terracotta elephant will be on display outside of Italy. Additionally, the Nilotic Mosaic will be making its second trip abroad, having first been displayed in Japan. The exhibit will form one of the key cultural attractions at the 2024 edition of AlUla’s Ancient Kingdom’s Festival, and will be on display at Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, from the 7th November to the 14th December.

Visitors to the upcoming exhibition include; AlUla World Archaeological Symposium guests, and schoolchildren from AlUla as part of the Ancient Kingdoms Festival School Engagement Week.

The partnership between RCU and MANN builds on the May 2023 signing of an intergovernmental agreement between Saudi Arabia and Italy which aims to foster cultural diplomacy through the promotion of cultural conservation, knowledge sharing, and heritage protection. As part of this collaboration, a team of specially selected Rawis (AlUla’s onsite heritage interpretation team) travelled from AlUla to Naples as part of a cultural exchange, that saw them learn more about MANN’s collections, in particular its prized Nabataean altar which was recovered from the sea near the ancient commercial port of Puteoli.

Dr Abdulrahman AlSuhaibani, VP of Culture at the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: “The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is a repository of masterpieces that reveal the wonders and richly interconnected stories that helped shaped the ancient world – key among them are Nabataean artefacts including alters and inscriptions dedicated to the Nabataean chief deity Dushares that show the extent of that civilisation, from AlUla in northwest Arabia to the shores of southern Europe.

“It’s a privilege for RCU to host the Masterpieces of the National Archaeological Museum of Naples exhibit and to display its wonderful collection of ancient artefacts for the first time in the region as we build toward an exciting calendar of cultural events, including the AlUla World Archaeological Symposium and the Ancient Kingdom’s Festival.

“This important new partnership between RCU and MANN highlights our aim to work in reciprocal, and collaborative development with global knowledge centres, as we continue to share the cultural significance of AlUla and its role in a global history.”

Beyond the exhibition, the partnership includes a comprehensive programme of technical cooperation projects spanning AlUla’s landscape of cultural assets and heritage sites, with teams from RCU and MANN involved in extensive curation, interpretation, and research work. These will be combined with opportunities for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and upskilling by both parties.

Silvia Barbone, VP of Strategic Partnerships, at the Royal Commission for AlUla said “This partnership is integral to our efforts to open new global markets for AlUla and engage with leading cultural institutions worldwide. We are not only enhancing cultural conservation but also creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and skill transfer, ensuring that both AlUla and MANN benefit from a deeper, shared understanding of cultural heritage. MANN was selected not only because it hosts one of the world’s best collections of Greek and Roman antiquities and creates a direct link between Hegra and Pompeii but also because of its management model, which brings the community to the centre.”

Professor Massimo Osanna, Director General of Museums at the Italian Ministry of Culture, added: “We are honoured to partner with the Royal Commission for AlUla in this extraordinary initiative. The new partnership not only strengthens the cultural ties between Italy and Saudi Arabia, but also represents a unique opportunity to share experience and expertise in the field of heritage. Together, we are committed to protecting and enhancing our cultural riches, promoting an intercultural dialogue that will enrich both nations.”

 

 

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