In-the-Issue

Transforming retail into travel experiences

Retail tourism is reshaping the global travel landscape, with the Middle East emerging as a key player in this dynamic sector. Industry experts share their views with TRAVTALK on the trends. TT Bureau Home to iconic shopping destinations, cultural markets, and luxury retail experiences, the Middle region is leveraging transformative …

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2025: Year of greater sustainability

The tourism and hospitality sectors are gearing up for a transformative 2025, driven by optimism and a renewed focus on sustainability. The industry is now prioritising climate action as an important agenda to future-proof its growth. Experts predict a dynamic year ahead, marked by shifting travel patterns and a wave …

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Iconic Hard Rock, Reverb hotels to open in KSA

Palladium Hotel Group is set to charter new territories following its agreement with Hard Rock International to operate hotels under the two brands in Saudi Arabia. TT Bureau Palladium Hotel Group will be infusing the region’s hospitality market with over 50 years of expertise, following a record-breaking 2023 with an …

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A new desert experience @Ras Abrouq

Visit Qatar launched a first-of-its-kind desert activation at Ras Abrouq, a premium destination that caters to the entire family, offering adventure, relaxation and cultural enrichment. Situated on the edge of the UNESCO-protected Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve in north-west Qatar, these activations present a new desert experience for visitors and residents alike. …

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DCT Abu Dhabi begins Retrofit Summit

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi hosted the inaugural Retrofit Summit, bringing together key stakeholders from the hospitality industry, financial institutions and government agencies, alongside industry experts. The event enabled industry leaders to exchange best practices, explore new retrofitting technologies, and discuss the growing role of sustainability …

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KSA’s foray into business and MICE

The inaugural International MICE Summit took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, last month, bringing together business leaders and MICE management professionals from around the globe. TRAVTALK engaged in an exclusive discussion with Kai Hattendorf, former Chief Executive Officer, UFI, to explore the state of the industry and its future prospects, …

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An all-inclusive era for UAE travellers

With the New Year beginning, there are some key trends that will matter to the UAE travellers. According to the latest research by Expedia, three main trends to be seen this year, to be followed even by the Gen Z, will be all-inclusive, restaurant renaissance and the phenomena list. Trips …

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Dubai’s new tourism concept

As Dubai celebrates its 30th anniversary of its shopping festival, the organisers take a different approach to the event by introducing local partners and their work to the tourists and residents in the UAE. TRAVTALK spoke with Mahra Al Khaja, Senior Associate, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, to know about …

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Unlocking revenue potential in hospitality

In an increasingly competitive landscape of the hospitality industry, optimising revenue streams is paramount for hotel organisations to ensure long-term success in the business. Ibrahim Saba, Principal Sales Director – Middle East and Africa, IDeaS Revenue Solutions, outlines four ways through which hoteliers can optimise their revenues, as well as …

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Curating experiences beyond London

With a sharp focus on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Middle East markets, VisitBritain aims to promote the UK’s cultural richness, regional beauty, and unique experiences. The recently held Destination Britain Middle East and Asia (DBMEA) event in Bengaluru, India, proved to be a landmark occasion for fostering deeper …

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