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UK urged to extend business rate relief to hotels

The UK Government is being urged to extend its £4.3 billion business rate relief fund, currently aiding pubs, to include hotels. According to Blick Rothenberg, a leading audit, tax, and business advisory firm, hotels are grappling with significant tax increases and rising operational costs. Darsh Shah, a partner at the firm, highlighted that some hotels are experiencing a 300% increase in rateable values this year, compounded by hikes in National Insurance Contributions and the National Minimum Wage. The proposed extension of the relief fund would allow hotels to phase in business rate increases over three years, alleviating some financial pressure. Shah also noted that English mayors now have the authority to introduce a tourist tax on hotel stays, which could further strain hotel finances if guests resist the additional cost. However, he suggested that if a portion of the levy supports hotels with rising costs, it could be beneficial. Frazer Callingham, Managing Director of Starboard Hotels, echoed these concerns, stating that the hospitality sector, severely impacted by COVID-19, continues to face unfair cost burdens. He pointed out that employment costs and supplier prices have surged, leaving hotels with limited options to pass on these costs to consumers. Shah emphasised the need for the Government to reconsider the current rate discount, which has been reduced from 75% during the pandemic to 40% this year, and is set to end in April 2026. He urged for a more gradual phase-out and additional support to help hotels manage the business rate rise. ```

Grand Mercure Business Bay opens in Dubai

Grand Mercure Business Bay has officially opened its doors in Dubai, marking a significant transformation from its previous identity as Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay. Owned and managed by Gulf Hotels Group under a franchise agreement with Accor, the rebranded hotel aims to merge Dubai's modern energy with regional warmth and character. Situated on Al Abraj Street along Marasi Drive, the hotel is strategically located just eight minutes from Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. It features 270 refreshed rooms and suites, a club lounge, and four meeting rooms accommodating up to 90 guests. The property also boasts five dining and entertainment venues, including the Mediterranean Muse, set to open in early 2026, and an enhanced outdoor pool terrace with views of Business Bay's skyline. Ahmed Janahi, Group CEO of Gulf Hotels Group, stated, “This transition to the Grand Mercure brand represents a strategic step for Gulf Hotels Group. We continue to manage the hotel whilst leveraging Accor’s global reach through its distribution channels and loyalty platforms.” Raki Phillips, Regional President for Accor, added, “Grand Mercure Business Bay is an exciting addition to Accor’s premium portfolio in the UAE. Our partnership with Gulf Hotels Group brings together local heritage, thoughtful design, and the trusted standards that guests expect from Accor.” To celebrate the opening, members of ALL Accor will receive 4X reward points on bookings made between 16 February 2026 and 12 April 2026, for stays until 9 August 2026. This rebranding aligns with Gulf Hotels Group’s strategy to expand its international portfolio and strengthens the hotel's role within the Business Bay community. ```

Business rate hikes threaten 2,000 UK hospitality closures in 2026

Representative Image Rising business rates are set to pile further pressure on the UK’s hospitality sector, with industry leaders warning of widespread closures unless urgent action is taken ahead of changes due in April. New figures from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) show business rates anxiety has reached a record high, with more than a third of firms (34%) expressing concern in its Q4 2025 Quarterly Economic Survey. Hospitality businesses are the most worried, with nearly half (49%) citing business rates as a major concern — the highest level of unease recorded since the survey began tracking the issue in 2017. The BCC has called on the Treasury to rethink its approach, warning that the proposed reforms risk leaving already-stretched sectors dangerously exposed. While limited protections for pubs have been welcomed, the organisation said many small hospitality operators remain at risk, while larger players such as airports and hotel chains are facing multi-million-pound hikes. Transitional relief is essential Kate Shoesmith, Director of Policy and Insights at the BCC, said the Chancellor had acknowledged the business rates system is “broken” in the Autumn Budget, but warned that the current proposals lack balance. She said an immediate uplift in transitional relief is essential to cushion the sharp increases in rateable values expected from April, before longer-term reform is delivered. Business rates system risks 6 venue closures a day The warning comes as fresh modelling from UKHospitality paints a stark picture for the sector. The trade body estimates that without a hospitality-wide solution to rising business rates, more than 2,000 venues could close in 2026 — the equivalent of six closures every day. The analysis forecasts the loss of 963 restaurants, 574 hotels and 540 pubs next year alone. Under current plans, the average hotel is set to face a £28,900 increase in business rates in 2026, rising to £205,200 over three years — a 115% jump. Pubs are expected to see rates rise by 15% next year, followed by a 76% increase over three years. Need to increase the business rates discount UKHospitality is urging the Government to increase the business rates discount for hospitality properties from 5p to the maximum 20p permitted in law, arguing this is vital to preventing mass closures and supporting the high street. Chair Kate Nicholls said soaring business rates would add to an already unsustainable cost burden for hospitality businesses, which are facing higher wages, national insurance contributions, energy costs and ongoing inflationary pressures. She warned that neighbourhood restaurants, local pubs and regional hotels would be among the hardest hit, despite hospitality being one of the UK’s largest employers and a key driver of economic growth. Without urgent intervention, Nicholls said, rising costs will continue to outstrip revenues, undermining the Government’s ambitions to boost jobs and economic activity. UKHospitality said its modelling is based on NIQ Hospitality Market Monitor data, alongside current closure rates and member survey responses on business failure risk.

From compliance to competitive advantage: The business case for accessible tourism

The concept of accessible tourism tends to be shunted off into a corner whenever talk turns to improvements to facilities for aviation, cruise, hospitality, and public attractions. To quote Malaysian accessibility advocate Beatrice Leong: “The thing about accessibility is that the moment you talk about persons with disabilities and accessibility, the first thing you think about is a wheelchair and a ramp. But I'm trying to zero in on the fact that it’s more than that.” The very root of the word itself is access, essentially a means of entering a place, gaining hold of an item or information, or the license to perform certain actions. For those hampered by the physical impact of age, illness, and injury, as well as those who were born with brains differently wired from the majority, accessibility to the instruments of regular living is a daily struggle, and travel even more so. In this feature, we at Travel Daily Media take a closer look at accessible tourism and how global travel professionals can make things easier for those who need various forms of assistance. First things first: what exactly is accessible tourism? The global research firm EBSCO defines accessible tourism as such: “Accessible tourism is an approach to travel that ensures accommodations and experiences are available to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities, seniors, and families with young children. This concept encompasses a wide range of accessibility features, such as wheelchair-friendly accommodations, transportation options, and venues equipped with Braille signage or audio descriptions to assist visually impaired travellers. The tourism industry is increasingly recognizing accessibility not just as a requirement, but as a valuable opportunity to engage a broader audience.” This definition certainly concurs with Leong’s statement that accessibility involves just a wheelchair and a ramp, seeing how it allows for signage for the visually impaired and transportation options for disabilities of any stripe. Likewise, in their study A Whole of Life Approach to Tourism: The Case for Accessible Tourism Experiences for Cambridge University, experts Simon Darcy and Tracey J Dickson pointedly state: “Accessible tourism enables people with access requirements, including mobility, vision, hearing and cognitive dimensions of access, to function independently and with equity and dignity through the delivery of universally designed tourism products, services, and environments.” Their definition includes infants well below the walking stage, as well as senior individuals in less than ideal health. It should also be stated there that accessible tourism needs to cover three dimensions of accessibility; namely physical access, sensory access, and communication access. To elaborate further, related measures need to include: Physical access for those with physical disabilities that require wheelchairs, walking aids, or handrails; Sensory access for those who have sight or hearing impairments; and Communication access for those who have impairments involving speech, vision, and hearing. Offering calm rooms and other soothing measures for individuals on the autism spectrum or who have been diagnosed as having one form of neurodivergence or another is also something that travel and tourism professionals need to look into. It’s not that easy Despite the need for these inclusions to be in place, along with government mandates the world over regarding the comfort and safety of the disabled, it is a sad truth that many countries have yet to implement relevant measures or struggle to place even the barest minimum. Indeed, it has been noted that there are five key barriers to the proper administration of measures related to accessible tourism. These are: Longstanding misconceptions and prejudices regarding disability tend to lead to weaker legislation and the absence of implementation Whether we like it or not, much of the world’s population has yet to (or potentially refuses to) shake off the notion that the disabled are little more than an annoyance or, worse, a burden to the rest of able-bodied society. Likewise, lawmakers who share that prejudiced mindset see measures for accessibility as either unnecessary or impractical due to “low demand,” and are quick to veto any related proposals for such measures in airports and seaports; Accessible tourism is still perceived as a risky investment For the most part, businesses the world over balk at the cost of accessibility upgrades, marking them as too high and either late to deliver returns on investment or are unprofitable all together. This mindset is more common in countries within the developing world; Stakeholders never seem to see the big picture In cases wherein the public and private sectors do agree to implement accessibility measures, they figuratively come to blows as to which exact measures to put in place. Progress regarding the implementation of key measures is often hampered by a lack of middle ground among stakeholders; Those who are supposed to be in charge lack training Admittedly, the human resources side of global travel and tourism has never quite recovered from the impact of the pandemic, as there is still a staffing shortfall of up to 52 percent throughout the industry. That said, it has been a challenge finding individuals to handle facilities related to accessible tourism due to their lack of qualifications as well as the relevant training for dealing with those in physical or mental difficulty; and There remains a major disconnect regarding infrastructure and design Despite the best efforts of urban planners and architects, physical barriers remain in transportation hubs, accommodations, as well as attractions. The concept of faulty infrastructure even applies to websites or booking systems that prove challenging to use for both regular people and those with disabilities. Now what? As daunting as the situation may be, implementing measures related to accessible tourism may start small and eventually grow thanks to sustained action on the part of governments or, more likely, the private sector by way of cause-oriented organisations. For this, we offer the following potential solutions for consideration: Maximise the use of contemporary and innovative technologies Japan is already on the forefront here, thanks to the use of robotics-enabled mobility solutions that make travel easier, more comfortable, and certainly fun for those with difficulty getting around. Haptic touchscreens may also be considered as signage for the visually-impaired, essentially offering an alternative to conventional Braille boards; Involve stakeholders in the planning and development phase One major mistake we’ve seen among urban planners, transportation companies, and even governments is that the disabled never seem to be involved in the development of related measures. It would be best if these organisers brought in qualified experts or even advocates speaking for the disabled into the planning process in order to properly see what the sector really needs as opposed to, say, yet another useless ramp; and Change the mindset, change the game The biggest problem I’ve encountered, particularly as someone whose mobility is compromised by poor vision and weak joints, is that people would rather mock than understand the difficulties others have to go through, especially when travelling. Making people aware of disabilities in an objective manner that enables them to see the disabled as real people rather than objects of pity will go a long way in ensuring greater acceptance of accessibility measures. I daresay that the conclusion to the study What is stopping the process? Analysis of obstacles to accessible tourism from a stakeholders' perspective authored by Lucía Rubio-Escuderos, Francisco Javier Ullán de la Rosa, and Hugo García-Andreu in 2024 is the best way to sum the matter up: “Promoting accessible management of tourist destinations is not only crucial for the inclusion of people with disabilities but also renders these destinations straightforward and comprehensible for all individuals, particularly considering the inevitable aging of the global population. Understanding the barriers to accessible tourism enables stakeholders to focus their actions in developing strategies to overcome them.”

Vietjet reintroduces premium Business & SkyBoss classes

Vietjet has announced the return of its premium fare classes, Business and SkyBoss, designed to provide an elevated travel experience for passengers seeking both elegance and efficiency. The airline's "Wings for Leaders" initiative aims to deliver a seamless journey from the ground to the sky, featuring dedicated check-in counters, priority security screening, and access to premium lounges. The airline continues to strengthen its domestic and international network, offering high-frequency routes that cater to both business and leisure travellers, and this expansion allows passengers greater control over their schedules and more efficient travel planning. Vietnamese hospitality 30,000 feet above Passengers can expect a refined in-flight experience with premium leather seats in a private cabin setting. Meanwhile, the menu includes unlimited hot, freshly prepared meals with Vietnamese favourites like Pho and Banh Mi, ensuring a familiar and comforting journey. Vietjet's cabin crew, known for their warm and attentive service, are always on hand to further enhance the travel experience. Key service privileges for Business and SkyBoss passengers include: Carry-on baggage allowance of up to 18kg for Business and 12kg for SkyBoss Checked baggage allowance of up to 60kg for Business and 50kg for SkyBoss, plus a golf club set Priority check-in, security screening, and boarding Access to premium lounges Unlimited in-flight meals Double SkyPoints and double lounge access on key routes in Vietnam Vietjet, a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), has been recognised for its safety and operational excellence, holding a seven-star safety rating and being listed among the world's top airlines for financial health by Airfinance Journal. ```

GCC business travel market to hit $270.8b by 2030

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) business travel market is projected to reach $270.8 billion by 2030, according to Tumodo's 2025 Business Travel Insights Report. The report highlights the impact of enhanced regional connectivity and the increasing prevalence of short business trips on corporate travel dynamics. Tumodo, a leading business travel platform in the UAE, has identified several key trends shaping the market. Despite a surge in demand, the average booking price has decreased to $427.8 from $496.6 in 2024. The busiest travel periods are January to February, with a notable recovery in November. The report also sheds light on popular travel routes and airlines. The Riyadh–Dubai route is the most active, with Emirates, IndiGo, Turkish Airlines, and Flydubai being the top carriers. Economy class bookings account for 72.81% of the total. Traveller behaviour is shifting towards shorter trips, typically lasting one to three days. The average hotel rate has fallen to $171, with 5-star and 4-star hotels being the most popular choices, comprising 40.79% and 37.38% of bookings, respectively. Additionally, airport transfers and visa support are the leading add-on services. These insights underscore the evolving landscape of business travel in the GCC, driven by changing traveller preferences and economic factors. As the market continues to grow, businesses and service providers will need to adapt to these emerging trends to remain competitive. ```

Plymouth showcases venues for business events

Plymouth, known as Britain's Ocean City, is set to host its annual Meet Plymouth Showcase on 3 February 2026 at Home Park Stadium, the home of Plymouth Argyle Football Club. The event will spotlight the city's growing reputation as a premier destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). The showcase will feature over 25 venues, hotels, and event suppliers, offering attendees a comprehensive view of Plymouth's event potential. Notable venues include The Box, the grade-II listed Tinside Lido, and the Plymouth Pavilions, which is expanding its venue hire offerings. New additions such as Gidleigh Park, a luxury country house hotel with Michelin-starred dining, and Plymouth Boat Trips' latest vessel, 'The Legend of Plymouth', will also be on display. Amanda Lumley, CEO of Destination Plymouth, emphasised the city's unique position between a National Park and a National Marine Park, stating, “Plymouth finds itself immersed in the natural beauty of a dramatic coastline, and it’s a destination perfect for team-building and outdoor corporate activities.” The event aims to attract local, regional, and national businesses, providing them with the opportunity to connect with Plymouth's MICE community. Attendees can explore a variety of offerings, from upscale coastal hotels to unique visitor attractions and teambuilding activities. For more information and to secure free tickets, interested parties can visit the official event page. The showcase promises to further cement Plymouth's status as a competitive choice for organisations seeking memorable meeting environments. ```

Malaysia Aviation Group launches Long-Term Business Plan 3.0

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) unveiled its Long-Term Business Plan 3.0 (LTBP3.0), a strategic roadmap for 2026–2030 designed to enhance its competitive edge and solidify its status as Asia’s Leading Travel and Aviation Services Group. Building on the success of LTBP2.0, which saw MAG reduce liabilities by over RM15 billion and eliminate RM10 billion in legacy debt, the new plan aims to double the Group’s revenue to more than $5.1 billion (RM24 billion) and position Malaysia Airlines among Skytrax’s Top 10 Global Airlines by 2030. Group Managing Director, Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, stated, “LTBP3.0 marks a shift from stabilisation to scaled and disciplined growth. It sharpens our premium position and deepens the value we create across our broader aviation ecosystem.” So, what's the plan? The plan outlines four strategic pillars: establishing MAG as a premium Asia-Pacific carrier, forming deeper partnerships, achieving operational leadership, and building resilient businesses. These initiatives are supported by investments in fleet renewal, including 40 A330neos and 43 Boeing 737-8s, to expand capacity by over 50 percent. MAG also plans to enhance digital capabilities and customer engagement, aiming for a 91% Customer Satisfaction Index at its contact centres. The plan also targets a 60 percent growth in third-party revenue across its aviation services businesses, reinforcing MAG’s role as a catalyst for national development. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, LTBP3.0 aims to deliver disciplined growth and create long-term value for customers and partners. ```

Scottish hospitality faces £69m business rates increase

Representative Image Scottish hospitality businesses are bracing for a significant financial burden as new analysis by UKHospitality Scotland reveals a 23% average increase in rateable values, potentially leading to a £69m rise in business rates bills for 2026/27. This increase is contingent on the discontinuation of the existing 40% relief for properties with a rateable value below £51,000, unless the Scottish Government intervenes in its January Budget. The draft valuation roll from the Scottish Assessors Association has prompted UKHospitality Scotland to urge the First Minister to halt the revaluation process. They propose freezing rateable values at current levels and working with the sector to find an alternative solution. The organisation highlights several case studies, including a rural pub facing a 160% valuation increase, a rural hotel with a 40% rise, and an Edinburgh restaurant that recently closed following a 54% increase. Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UKHospitality Scotland, stated, “Hospitality businesses across Scotland continue to be punished by the broken business rates system. Without action, we will only see business closures accelerate, more jobs lost, and Scottish communities continue to see the loss of much-loved local venues.” UKHospitality is advocating for a permanently reduced business rates poundage for hospitality and leisure, funded by rebalancing the burden to reflect the rise of the online economy. The organisation calls on the Scottish Government to collaborate on a solution to prevent unsustainable increases in rates bills. ```

Etihad introduces carbon-offset feature for businesses

Etihad Airways has unveiled a new feature on its Etihad for Business platform, enabling corporate clients to use their EYB credits to purchase carbon offsets directly. This enhancement, launched on 11 December 2025, is part of Etihad's ongoing collaboration with CarbonClick and aims to support corporate partners in fulfilling their voluntary environmental commitments. The new functionality integrates seamlessly into the existing Etihad for Business portal, which was launched earlier this year as a fully digital corporate programme. This portal allows corporate clients to manage travel, access contract details, track spending, and redeem credits for various benefits, including upgrades, priority services, lounge access, and now, carbon offsets. Javier Alija, Vice President Global Sales & Distribution at Etihad Airways, stated, “This enhancement provides our corporate clients with a practical tool to assist in achieving their voluntary environmental commitments. By integrating carbon-offsets directly into Etihad for Business, we simplify the process for corporate clients to be aware of their emissions associated with business travel and choose to take steps in support of climate action through their everyday travel management.” The platform is set to expand further in the coming year, offering features such as automated performance reports, real-time analytics, and simplified contract management. This development underscores Etihad's commitment to providing a comprehensive, user-friendly travel management solution that aligns with corporate clients' environmental goals. With the integration of carbon-offset redemption, Etihad for Business now offers an efficient mechanism for corporate clients to support their climate goals, enhancing the airline's suite of digital travel management tools. ```

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