Riyadh has become Emirates’ first GCC destination to welcome the refurbished Emirates Boeing 777, offering passengers the all-new Business Class cabin and highly acclaimed Premium Economy seats.
The newly refurbished aircraft will operate on the EK 819/820 daily service which departs Dubai at 0710hrs, with a scheduled arrival in Riyadh for 0805hrs. The return flight departs from the Kingdom’s capital at 0940hrs and reaches Dubai at 1235hrs.
The four-class Emirates Boeing 777 offers 24 Premium Economy seats arranged in a 2-4-2 layout with 6-way adjustable headrests for added comfort and space – making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers. The upgraded Business Class cabin offers more privacy, with 38 seats in a spacious 1-2-1 configuration, and direct aisle access, a mini-bar and multiple charging ports, among other thoughtful features.
The aircraft also features 6 First Class gamechanger suites offering the very best in luxury. The refreshed Economy Class cabin has 256 ergonomic seats with leather headrests that can be adjusted vertically.
Emirates aircraft fitted with Premium Economy will reach 48 by the end of this year, and will serve 27 destinations including Dubai, using Emirates’ fleet of B777s, A380s, and A350s.
Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has announced the launch of a pioneering community initiative titled ‘Autumn with Dubai Civil Aviation Authority’, in collaboration with helicopter operator Air Chateau and the Community Development Authority, to express its gratitude to senior citizens who witnessed Dubai’s development and contributed to its prosperity. To give back to them, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority has organized flights in the skies of Dubai to give them an exceptional opportunity to enjoy watching the emirate and its charming beauty from its sky.
The ‘Autumn with Dubai Civil Aviation Authority’ initiative embodies the spirit of appreciation and respect for senior citizens, and this one-of-a-kind trip provides them with unforgettable moments to explore the breathtaking views of Dubai’s creative landmarks, reflecting its sustainable development. The trips start from Al Barsha Community Center, as part of DCAA’s efforts to enhance community participation.
His Excellency Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Director General of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, stated: “This initiative comes in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which places attention to senior citizens and their active participation in various community activities at the heart of the priorities of the targeted social and family initiatives launched by Dubai. In line with the evolving social system in the emirate, which consolidates Dubai’s position as one of the best cities in the world in terms of standard of living. We believe that investing in the well-being of society is an integral part of our vision to build a sustainable and balanced future, as we are keen to provide services and initiatives that keep pace with the highest international standards of social responsibility.”
Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of Community Development Authority in Dubai, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Dubai Civil Aviation Authority on this pioneering community initiative, which confirms our vision to build a thriving Emirati society and a cohesive social system, and to develop services that meet the aspirations of the Emirate of Dubai. This initiative is not only a tribute to senior citizens, but also an embodiment of our commitment to providing opportunities and strengthening national identity and community participation, which contributes to consolidating the spirit of giving and belonging to serve the country for the benefit of current and future generations.”
The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is committed to continuing to develop initiatives that contribute to supporting community groups, enhancing the overall quality of life, and building a cohesive society by providing innovative opportunities and services that ensure the well-being of all members of society.
Emirates has announced several appointments in its commercial team across key markets in the Middle East and Africa to help further strengthen the airline’s leading position and support its long-term strategic initiatives.
The rotation will enable seasoned outstation managers, including six UAE Nationals, to further enhance Emirates’ commercial capabilities in their respective markets by bringing in their expertise during a pivotal period of growth and expansion for the airline.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer commented: “Our long-serving commercial managers have played integral roles in Emirates’ global operations over the years, and today’s appointments demonstrate our confidence in their continued contributions to strengthen our business across the GCC and Africa.
I wish the commercial managers all the success in their new roles and have full confidence in their ability to further thrive as Emirates’ ambassadors in our outstations.”
From1 October, the following commercial managers will assume these roles:
Abdulla Adnan: Formerly Manager Tanzania, will become Manager Morocco
Cathrine Wesley: Formerly Country Manager Ghana and Ivory Coast, will become Manager Algeria
Fahad Al Hassawi: Formerly Manager Oman, will become District Manager Dharan and KSA Eastern Province
Khalfan Al Salami: Formerly Manager Morocco, will become Manager Kuwait and Iraq
Omar Alhemeiri: Formerly Manager Algeria, will become Manager Tanzania
Saood Al Aqili: Formerly District Manager Dharan and KSA Eastern Province, will become Country Manager Ghana
Emirates is also pleased to announce the promotion of Khalid Al Zarooni, currently Manager Kuwait and Iraq, to Emirates’ Vice President, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
National Commercial Outstation Programme
Emirates places competent and ambitious UAE talent in key leadership positions across markets in its network through the National Commercial Outstation Programme, equipping them with unmatched industry knowledge and world-class skills that allow them to contribute to the airline’s growth ambitions. The programme further aims to develop a strong pipeline of future Emirati leaders, fully capable of supporting the Emirates Group’s global businesses and the UAE aviation sector.
Radisson Hotel Group is set to make a significant impact at this year’s Future Hospitality Summit, announcing major growth milestones across the Middle East. With 58 hotels, resorts and serviced apartments in operation and 30 under development, the Group is rapidly expanding its regional footprint. Supporting this expansion, Radisson Hotel Group has strengthened its leadership team with the recent appointment of Ayman Ezzeddine as Director of Development for the Middle East, North-East Africa, and Pakistan, who will be instrumental in supporting the Group’s growth strategy across the region.
Expanding in Saudi Arabia with strategic new signings
Radisson Hotel Group continues to expand its footprint in Saudi Arabia with strategic signings in Al Ahsa, Hail, Madinah, and a third Radisson Collection property in Riyadh, marking significant milestones in the Group’s growth plan. With 29 hotels in operation and 17 hotels under development, the Group is actively working to reach its goal of operating 100 hotels in Saudi Arabia by 2030. These developments align with Saudi Vision 2030, positioning Radisson Hotel Group as a key player in the Kingdom’s growing tourism and hospitality sector while contributing to economic diversification and job creation. More signings and openings will be announced soon across the GCC.
“The Middle East remains a key focus for Radisson Hotel Group with almost 90 hotels open or under construction. We thank our partners and owners for their continued trust in our 10 relevant brands and we look forward to further forging strong partnerships and creating a positive impact in the communities we serve”, said Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer at Radisson Hotel Group
Photographer: Saleh Lotfy
Strengthening the portfolio in Jordan and rest of the Levant region
In Jordan, the Group has expanded its portfolio with two significant signings: Radisson Collection Residence, Amman Abdoun, and Radisson RED Amman Downtown. Both properties are set to open in 2028, bringing luxury and lifestyle offerings to the heart of Amman and increasing the Group’s footprint to 3 properties in operation and under development. These signings (and more to be announced soon for the rest of the Levant region) highlight Radisson Hotel Group’s commitment to strengthening its presence in key regional markets, providing guests with unique experiences catering to business and leisure travelers.
Regional Overview: hotels in operation and development
Radisson Hotel Group operates a robust and growing portfolio across the Middle East, with 58 properties in operation totaling 12,704 keys, and an additional 30 and 5,107 keys under development. In 2024 so far, the Group has signed 7 new hotels and serviced apartments, representing 998 keys across the region, further consolidating its presence in the Middle East.
The recently opened Radisson Hotel & Residence Riyadh Olaya, along with the Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher Alsharqi and Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher Algharbi, highlight the Group’s commitment to offering world-class hospitality in the region. Upcoming openings include the Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Al Sahafa, Radisson Hotel Jeddah Tahlia Street, and the first Park Inn by Radisson property in Kuwait.
Strengthening the team with new leadership
To support the Group’s regional expansion, Ayman Ezzeddine was recently appointed Director of Development for the Middle East, North-East Africa, and Pakistan. Ayman brings over a decade of experience in hospitality and development, having previously worked with leading brands across the region. His leadership will be focal in accelerating Radisson Hotel Group’s growth, particularly in markets like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt and Pakistan.
“We are proud to contribute to the region’s economic diversification and to deliver hospitality experiences that align with the aspirations of both our investors as well as our guests. We are thrilled to welcome Ayman to the team to help drive our growth, and by expanding our portfolio and strengthening partnerships, we’re creating long-term value for our stakeholders while leading the way in sustainability and innovation across the Middle East,” said Elie Milky, Vice President of Development, Middle East, Greece, Cyprus, and Pakistan, Radisson Hotel Group.
Strong First Half of 2024 with global growth
During the first half of 2024, Radisson Hotel Group achieved substantial global growth, with over 130 new signings and openings in key markets across EMEA and APAC. This includes adding the Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, and Radisson RED brands in new markets, solidifying the Group’s position as a leading player in the worldwide hospitality industry.
Radisson Hotel Group is strategically advancing its lifestyle portfolio in the Middle East, with ambitious plans to introduce art’otel as well as Prize by Radisson, in partnership with key strategic investors.
art’otel offers an elevated arts-inspired concept, where each property showcases the work of a signature artist, creating culturally immersive environments. These hotels not only cater to travelers but also serve as vibrant social hubs for local communities. Through close collaboration with leading investors, Radisson Hotel Group aims to fast-track the rollout of this lifestyle brand in key cities, building on art’otel’s current growth momentum with several openings in London, Zagreb and Rome and reinforcing its leadership in the region’s evolving hospitality landscape.
Prize by Radisson, with its recent rebranding, continues to provide a unique midscale lifestyle offering—blending high-energy communal spaces with the value-conscious pricing of an economy hotel, ideal for guests seeking modern, flexible living experiences.
Philippine airline Cebu Pacific placed a firm order with Airbus for 70 A321neo, finalising a memorandum of understanding previously announced in July.
The purchase agreement was signed in Manila by Cebu Pacific chief executive Mike Szucs and Airbus executive vice-president for sales of the commercial aircraft business Benoît de Saint-Exupéry.
Szucs said: “The selection of Airbus A321neo underscores our focus on operational efficiency, sustainability, and innovation, ensuring that we continue to deliver the highest standards of service while significantly reducing our carbon footprint. This milestone signals our ongoing dedication to expanding air travel accessibility and affordability, while supporting the Philippine’s broader economic growth and connectivity goals.”
De Saint-Exupéry added: “The A320 Family has supported Cebu Pacific’s domestic and short-haul international network growth over the last two decades. We’re grateful to the airline for its continued endorsement of our best selling single-aisle product line. The A321neo is highly regarded for its unparalleled economics, performance and fuel efficiency. We’re confident that these additional A321neo aircraft will contribute strongly to the all-Airbus operator’s next phase of expansion as one of Asia-Pacific’s leading low cost carriers.”
Augmenting its fleet
Cebu Pacific currently operates 61 A320 Family aircraft on its extensive regional network.
In addition, it flies nine A330 widebodies on high-density routes within Asia, as well as to destinations in the Middle East.
Following the latest order, the airline’s backlog with Airbus now stands at 94 A320neo Family aircraft and seven A330neo.
Bigger and better
The A321neo is the largest member of Airbus’ best-selling A320neo Family, offering unparalleled range and performance.
By incorporating new generation engines and Sharklets, the A321neo brings a 50 percent noise reduction and more than 20 percent fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft, while maximising passenger comfort in the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky.
To date more than 6,500 A321neo have been ordered by more than 90 customers across the globe.
The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) jointly held an overseas tourism promotional event for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in Jakarta, Indonesia on Thursday, 26th September.
The event introduced the theme Greater Bay Area – Connecting Great Experiences through a roster of attractions, along with the launch of innovative multi-destination products for travel agents. This collaborative project aims to present the Greater Bay Area as one great destination and expand international visitor markets.
Likewise, the event aimed to strengthen regional tourism cooperation and showcase the unique tourism resources and latest development of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, to attract more Indonesian visitors to the Greater Bay Area and tap the potential of international visitor markets together.
The event engaged about 150 participants including members of the travel trade, media, and key opinion leaders (KOLs) in Indonesia.
A cooperative effort
Through the cooperative mechanism enabled by the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Tourism Marketing Organization, MGTO has for long maintained close communication and collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Tourism Board.
The three offices regularly hold tourism promotion meetings to explore the possibilities of collaboration in destination marketing.
Using collaborative booths, the three tourism offices jointly showcase the three destinations’ tourism resources and multi-destination tour routes, further branding the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area as a world-class destination.
Greater Bay Airlines (GBA) announced the launch of a scheduled service to Zhoushan, China starting 7 November 2024.
This new route will operate three times a week between Hong Kong and Zhoushan’s Zhoushan Putuoshan International Airport.
Flights from Hong Kong to Zhoushan will take off at 1505hrs on Mondays and Saturdays, and at 0935hrs on Thursdays.
Return flights from Zhoushan take off at 1810hrs on Mondays and Saturdays, and at 1240hrs on Thursdays.
A port city that appeals to one’s faith
Zhoushan is a maritime city of Zhejiang Province in China and is composed of over 1,300 islands, including the Zhoushan Main Island, which is the fourth largest island in China.
Putuoshan is one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China. The statue of Goddess of Mercy (also known as Guanyin), 18 metres high and the largest outdoor Guanyin statue in Asia, together with the grand temples, such as Puji Temple, Fayu Temple and Huiji Temple, make Zhoushan a famous tourist destination and appeal to many Buddhists from all over the world.
Club Med announced a strategic partnership with boardsports and lifestyle hub TRIFECTA to bring the mountains to Singaporeans.
This partnership includes the Club Med Snow Academy powered by TRIFECTA later this year, along with a skiing competition and party.
This partnership stems from the overwhelming response to Club Med’s inaugural Snow Report in 2023, where nine out of ten families expressed willingness to try indoor ski lessons.
The partners officially launched the snow academy on Tuesday, 1st October, and TRIFECTA instructors are now giving skiing lessons so that participants can confidently head to the slopes.
Olivier Monceau, general manager for Club Med Singapore and Malaysia, said: “We are thrilled to partner with TRIFECTA to offer a unique training experience in advance of their vacation at Club Med’s snow resorts. This collaboration not only enhances our guests’ enjoyment but also positions Club Med as the most desirable snow holiday brand.”
Redefining holiday fun
The Club Med Snow Academy redefines how snow sports enthusiasts and beginners alike prepare for their holidays directly from Singapore.
After signing up, attendees will train at TRIFECTA where instructors will assess their progress and match their skills to Club Med ski and snowboarding levels. Upon completion, attendees will receive a certificate endorsed by both Club Med and TRIFECTA, validating their new skills unlocked.
Riders can then maximise their time on the powder snow slopes, whether at Club Med resorts in Hokkaido, The French Alps, Canada and across the globe or elsewhere.
The enrollment in the Club Med Snow Academy by TRIFECTA is open to everyone. Meanwhile, Club Med guests who already have an existing booking can enjoy a 10 percent off all class packs if purchased before 15 October.
A shared mission
The two brands share a mission to make skiing and snowboarding accessible to Singaporeans by bringing the mountains to all.
Drawing on Club Med’s nearly seven decades of mountain expertise, the premier all-inclusive resort brand has grown in their expertise on teaching and are able to tailor courses designed to ensure a smooth learning experience for all levels. This is further leveraged during the courses at Club Med Snow Academy.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust are celebrating the prestigious award of Accredited Museum status by Arts Council England, a UK-wide benchmark recognising that the Trust meets the highest standards of management, education, care and access to their historic collections.
To celebrate the new Museum Accreditation status, the Trust is relaunching the Visitor Centre located on the Leigh Woods side of the bridge as the ‘Clifton Suspension Bridge Museum’ and unveiling a new brand.
Open to the public 7 days a week, the museum welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each year. Inside, visitors can discover objects from the museum collections and learn how the bridge was constructed and is maintained today. Free and ticketed tours run throughout the year, in addition to children’s activities for families and school groups.
The Museum Accreditation application process took approximately three years, during which time the Trust’s Archivist worked to ensure important documents, drawings, photographs and objects were properly catalogued, preserved and made accessible to the public. Many of the items can already be viewed online, with more exciting projects to follow before Christmas.
Bridge Master Trish Johnson said, “We are thrilled to announce Museum Accreditation for our heritage site. This award represents our commitment to preserving the rich heritage of our bridge. Ultimately, we aim to continue sharing captivating stories for present and future generations.”
Museum Archivist Dr Hannah Little added, “We are really pleased to achieve Museum Accreditation. While Clifton Suspension Bridge is familiar to many, our museum and its collections are less well known – these tell us how the bridge was seen, built and used in the past, enabling people to see Bristol’s famous landmark in new and different ways. It is important to preserve and share these objects and stories for the benefit of the public.”
Oxfordshire UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace has announced that it will be partnering up with Magic Light Pictures, the award-winning producers of Pip and Posy to launch an immersive trail in its family themed attraction Adventure Play from 1st October to 3rd November.
Pip and Posy is a series of British children’s picture books illustrated by Axel Scheffler, and published by Nosy Crow, which were adapted into a popular television series for Sky Kids and Milkshake!. Scheffler is well known for his illustrations of The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom, and Zog. Based on the delightful episode of the ‘Grumpy Pebble,’ the new trail in Adventure Play promises fun and adventure for young visitors as they help Pip and Posy on their playful journey.
The trail will guide children through a series of imaginative and engaging activities. Along the way, little explorers will complete tasks and traverse the immersive play area featuring secret chambers, clamber nets, tunnels, slides, rope bridges – and giant carrots!
To make this October even more special, the trail will be transformed with a Halloween theme. Young guests are encouraged to dress up in their favourite costumes and enjoy a variety of free activities. On Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd November, there will be appearances from Pip and Posy costume characters, and there will also be storytelling sessions with TV tie-in books from the series too, which are also published by Nosy Crow. Readings will take place daily throughout October in Adventure Play at 11:30am and 2:00pm.
Heather Carter, Managing Director at Blenheim Palace, said: “We’re excited to work with Magic Light Pictures to bring the charm and fun of Pip and Posy to Adventure Play this October. The trail is a wonderful way for children and families to enjoy the outdoors, use their imagination, and enjoy time together. With the added Halloween twist, we’re looking forward to a truly memorable experience.”
Hollie Bladen, Brand Manager at Magic Light Pictures, said, “We can’t wait to bring Pip and Posy to Adventure Play at Blenheim Palace this October. We strive to enrich and entertain as many children as we can with our properties, and this trail will bring Pip and Posy straight to its audience through play.”
The Pip and Posy trail at Adventure Play is set to run throughout October, with the Halloween-themed activities available exclusively during the half-term week from Monday 28th October – Sunday 3rd November. Available at £150 for a family of four (two adults and two children) and at £50 per adult and £40 per child for individual day passes, a valid Palace and Play Pass is required for families to take part in the Pip and Posy trail.
Existing Family Annual Pass holders (two adults and two children) can upgrade to the new Palace and Play Pass for £51 and individual annual passes can be upgraded for £18 per child and £12 per adult.
