Travel in Uae

Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) and Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) have taken a significant move towards transforming tourism and transportation in the Emirate by signing a future-forward Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Skyports Infrastructure (Skyports), the company leading the development of vertiport infrastructure for electric air taxi services. Marking the beginning of an exciting partnership that will pioneer sustainable tourism through electric air mobility, this pivotal MoU will see Skyports develop a network of vertiports to connect key attractions across Ras Al Khaimah, propelling the Emirate as a destination of the future and aligning with RAKTA’s Strategic Plan 2030.

The proposed $3.9 billion Wynn Al Marjan has caused a development frenzy in Ras Al Khaimah, the once-quiet man-made island– located about 70 minutes drive from Dubai International Airport. Just about every major hotel operator has a project underway, and as Bloomberg reported last month, developers have snapped up every available plot. 

In a shift in global mobility rankings, Singapore has claimed the top spot in the 2024 Henley Passport Index released on Wednesday, granting its citizens visa-free access to 195 countries.

One of the most powerful real estate developers in the Gulf is partnering with the Indonesian government to boost its tourism sector.

The UAE-born Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) has posted combined room revenues of $1.3 billion for the first six months of this year, 18% more than in the first half of 2023.

World Travel Awards plans its first Philippine ceremony in Manila, highlighting significant tourism growth and infrastructure investments.

Emirates opens its first regional lounge at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, reflecting its commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 and enhancing passenger experience.

ADCB’s new Traveller Credit Card offers comprehensive travel benefits and cashback, including no FX fees, unlimited lounge access, and substantial savings on global travel expenses.

Dubai Mall saw 57 million visitors in the first half of 2024, up from 52 million in 2023, with retail sales growing by 8-15%.

Etihad Airways and Batik Air Malaysia launch a codeshare partnership enhancing connectivity with new domestic and international destinations via Kuala Lumpur, facilitating seamless travel and luggage transfers for passengers.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is aiming to increase tourism revenue in the country by 7.5% next year.

World Travel Awards (WTA) has unveiled plans to hold its first ever ceremony in the Philippines. Capital Manila will welcome travel and tourism figureheads for the red-carpet WTA Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony 2024 on 3 September. The red-carpet reception will take place at City of Dreams Luxury Resort. WTA’s debut reflects the buoyancy of the travel and tourism economy in the Philippines. International visitor arrivals in the first quarter of 2024 rose 15 per cent year-on-year, echoing significant investments in tourism infrastructure and improvements in land, sea and air connectivity.

Emirates flies almost a million passengers every week, making it one of the world’s largest international airlines. As part of this, its Skywards program aims to boost loyalty to the brand, converting first-time customers into Emirates devotees. 

Wego partners with the Jordan Tourism Board to promote Jordan’s rich history and stunning landscapes, offering exclusive travel deals and curated itineraries to travelers.

dnata Travel, the UAE’s longest serving travel provider, is reporting a 35% increase in bookings for international travel across July and August 2024, compared to the same timings last year. As one of the busiest weekends forecasted for travel fast approaches, the travel agency is supporting thousands of travellers with pre-booked itineraries and last-minute requests across its multiple channels, including 14 retail outlets across the country.

One of India’s largest airlines recently launched a new program that allows female travelers to see where other women are seated when they select their seats online.

Hilton teams up with M Hospitality to launch Hilton Marjan Island Beach Resort & Spa in Ras Al Khaimah, set to open in Q4 2026, enhancing its Middle Eastern portfolio amid increasing visitor projections.

Marriott and Eagle Hills to open the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in UAE on Ramhan Island, Abu Dhabi, by 2029, offering secluded luxury villas and extensive amenities.

Etihad Airways celebrates its 10 millionth loyalty program member, marking a milestone with upgrades and enhanced benefits reflecting its growth and commitment to exceptional service.

The Indian hotels industry signed a total of 146 branded hotels between January and May this year. This was up from 110 branded hotels signed during the same period last year. More than 14,000 keys are now under development, a monthly report by hospitality advisory services firm HVS Anarock showed.

Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi announces the launch of its updated website, now offering an enhanced booking experience for premium stays. This summer, visitors can not only book their luxurious accommodations seamlessly but also take advantage of exclusive new packages and offers designed to make their stay unforgettable.

Marriott International, Inc. and Eagle Hills announced the signing of an agreement to open the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Anticipated to open on Ramhan Island, an exclusive waterfront destination in Abu Dhabi, the property will offer a secluded escape complete with expansive views across the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf.