Valentine’s is all about making an impression. Sweep off her feet with a collection of experiences on a two-day stay in the Royal Suite of Shangri-La Al Husn including limousine and…
Nick Flynn has been appointed as Hotel Manager, joining the exclusive Shangri-La Al Husn, a breathtaking clifftop retreat for adults located in beautiful Muscat, Oman.
No one wants to miss out on all the fun of bringing in the New Year with style? Shangri-La Muscat has the perfect line-up of activities to do just that.
The Sultanate of Oman has announced the introduction of a direct flight between Muscat and Bangkok. From Sunday, 18 December , Oman’s budget airline SalamAir will fly directly between…
Flights from Muscat depart on Sundays, Tuesdays & Fridays, return flights from Bangkok are scheduled for Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
New Muscat to Bangkok direct flight on…
Shangri-La Al Husn, Muscat opens contemporary Indian restaurant Aangan by Rohit Ghai. Critically acclaimed Chef Rohit Ghai has curated an innovative menu inspired by his personal and…
The airline has increased frequencies between Muscat and Trabzon from 3 weekly flights to 5 weekly flights, and between Muscat and Istanbul from 7 weekly flights to 8 weekly flights.
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group), the executive arm of the Sultanate of Oman for tourism development, announce plans for the upcoming Four…
Middle Eastern carrier Oman Air has announced that it will be grounding planes and suspending all passenger services to and from Muscat, until further notice, as of midday, Sunday 29 March…
W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International, announced the opening of W Muscat, the brand’s newest beachfront W Escape and the second to open in the Middle East this year. Set…
Coming just a couple of weeks after Oman Air first the delivery of its fourth new Boeing 737 MAX 8s, the airline has now announced the arrival of number five to its home hub at Muscat…
Fraser Suites, a luxury brand that offers serviced apartments, has announced its first property in Oman as part of its plans to double its footprint in the Middle East to 13 properties.
The city of Muscat is best known to travellers as ‘a very elegant town with very fine houses’ due to building policies that enforce cleanliness and traditional design elements. Portuguese…
Sundus Rotana Muscat has officially opened its doors and is serving the increasing number of travellers and guests visiting the Sultanate.
The new hotel is the brand’s first property in…
Oman Air has launched a new daily flight from Muscat to Manchester.
The new service will depart Muscat at 14.00 hrs daily and arrive in Manchester at 19.05hrs. The return flight will be…
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has marked yet another milestone in its Middle East expansion strategy having inked an agreement with the Civil Service Employees Pension Fund to operate its…
Laura Eggleton, General Manager of Action Hotel’s Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb, has been awarded the prestigious IHG General Manager of the Year Award for the India, Middle East and Africa…
US Bangla Airlines now operates non-stop flights from Dhaka and Chittagong to Muscat. The four weekly flights are operated by two B373- 800 aircraft.
According to US Bangla team, the…
Residents of the Sultanate of Oman can now apply for visas to France at the visa application centre launched for the Embassy of France in the capital city of Muscat. Applicants can visit VFS…
British Airways has launched a direct flight between Muscat and London, further adding convenience to customers travelling between the two regions.
The UK carrier, which first began…
Singapore’s General Hotel Management (GHM) has revealed plans to launch a brand called Tin Hotels in the Middle East.
The hospitality firm, known for its portfolio of luxury hotels…
Bank Muscat and Oman’s Ministry of Tourism have joined forces to host the country’s renowned social media personality Sheikh Majed Al Sabah.
During his week-long stay the ‘Discover Oman’…
The National Museum of the Sultanate of Oman opened its doors to the people on Saturday.
This new attraction, which is located in Muscat’s Al Alam Palace area, is expected to entice…
The Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) is on track to deliver three new hotels, providing more than 900 additional rooms, in 2017/18.
The properties include the five-star W hotel…
Muscat International Airport has reported an 18% increase in passenger traffic for June 2016, including those in transit.
Figures show 5,694,468 passengers used the airport last month…
From 1 August 2016, Qatar Airways will expand its Muscat services from four to five flights daily taking the total count to 35 flights weekly.
“Both Doha and Muscat are popular cities…
Ethiopian Airlines has launched a daily service to Muscat.
The carrier started operate flights from Addis Ababa to the Omani capital on 1 July.
The new service will connect Oman…
Thailand’s AirAsia X has launched services from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport to Muscat International.
The direct three times weekly service started on 28 June and operates on Tuesday,…
HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings recently announced signing of management agreement for Corp Muscat Al Muzn Hotel followed by opening of Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments.…
Shaheen Air, a private Pakistani airline recently announced the launch of its Muscat-Islamabad flight effective 5 April 2016.
The service will run once a week on Tuesdays. The airline…
The Ascott Limited (Ascott), has opened Somerset Panorama Muscat, the first Somerset-branded property in the Sultanate of Oman.
Opened on 1 March in Muscat’s Bawshar district, the…
Jet Airways will expand its Middle Eastern network this month with the launch of a new flight between Delhi and Muscat.
Commencing on 21 March 2016, the Indian airline will operate…
Muscat Duty Free has partnered with the Sindbad programme to launch the new online ‘Muscat Duty Free’ store.
With the launch, Sindbad members now have more options to spend miles.…
Oman Air recently unveiled its newly refurbished first and business class lounges at Muscat International Airport.
The lounges will be formally opened by HE Maitha Bint Saif Al…
Recent reports stated that the expansion work at Muscat International Airport is on track and will be completed on time, as reported by Times of Oman.
In a recent development, Oman…
Oman Air recently hosted a major meeting of the Gulf Flight Safety Council (GFSC) in Muscat.
The event was well-attended by representatives from the Public Authority for Civil…
The Millennium & Copthorne Hotels has launched its first Millennium Executive Apartments in Muscat.
This is the Group’s global debut for its apartment brand and first foray in…
Gulf Air recently opened its new sales office in Muscat.
The new office was opened under patronage of the ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the Sultanate of Oman HE Mohammed…
Effective 20 January 2015, Gulf Air will increase its services to between Bahrain and Muscat with an additional four weekly flights.
Flights to Muscat will increase from 21 to 25…
Key issues impacting development of the Arabian Gulf's cruise industry will be in the spotlight at the Seatrade Middle East Cruise Forum. The event is being held at the Al Bustan Palace…
Oman will witness a line up of new developments from Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East and Africa (MEA). The Group will open three new properties in Oman, starting with…
The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) recently inked an agreement with Omagine to develop one million square metre area in Muscat. The ‘Omagine Project' will offer residential units, four and…
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) recently signed a multi-year contract extension with Omran for InterContinental Muscat. The 258-room hotel will undergo extensive refurbishment which…
Salalah is gearing up to welcome the organising committee of the sixth edition of the Muscat Youth Summit (MYS). Catering to young minds, the summit MYS 2014 with an apt theme - 'Opening…
Park Inn by Radisson Muscat hotel was recently presented with a certificate of appreciation from the Oman American Business Council (OABC). This recognition was for the hotel’s…
Muscat's latest entrant to the business luxury hotel segment, Hormuz Grand, has formally opened its doors.
Located at a three-minute drive from the Muscat International Airport,…
Come 4 September 2014, the Sama Terrazza lounge at Park Inn by Radisson Muscat will open its doors to guests. The lounge caters well for family, friends or colleagues with a selection of…
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) will resume its daily flight on the Muscat-Dubai sector from 20 July 2014.
A statement stated that the airline's flights were temporarily…
Taameer Investment announced the launch of its new project - The Wave Plaza Hotel – in Muscat.
Shaikh Saif bin Mohammed al Shabibi, minster of housing, was guest of honour. The Wave…
The preparations to open for Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments are well underway. The hotel is entering the final phase of development said Laurent A Voivenel, CEO, HMH - Hospitality…
Muscat is getting another five star hotel near the Muscat International airport. InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Muscat Golf Course Project LLC announced the construction of a…
Talks are currently in progress to launch direct flights between Muscat and Manila. Cebu Pacific is all set to launch the operation, which is likely to start by mid-2014, as reported by…
In an effort to lure GCC traveller, the Park Inn by Radisson Muscat recently unveiled its Arabic website - www.parkinn.com/hotel-muscat.
The website can be accessed in two languages…
Development of the Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments is on track. The construction process was evaluated by Laurent A Voivenel, CEO, HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings who was…
Jumeirah Group has signed a management agreement with Saraya Bandar Jissah SAOH to operate a luxury resort in Muscat. The resort is currently under development and is expected to open in…
Jet Airways has revised the timings for its flight between Mumbai-Muscat-Mumbai from 2 December 2013 to 1 January
2014.
According to the revised timing, the flight from Mumbai will…
Bank Muscat and Oman Air recently collaborated to launch a co-branded credit card.
HE Darwish bin Ismail Al Balushi, minister responsible for financial affairs, was the guest of…
The conferencing and banqueting facilities at Park Inn Muscat underwent a revamp over the summer.
The new-look offers bigger meeting room space to accommodate a variety of…
Muscat Grand Mall has announced plans for its expansion. This expansion will be financed completely through an investment of over US$130m. Tilal Development Company will undertake completion…
SpiceJet in partnership with Khimji's House of Travel (KHOT) will launch three weekly non-stop flights between Ahmedabad and Muscat. The inaugural incoming flight from Ahmedabad will arrive…
SpiceJet has announced new services between Ahmedabad and Muscat, starting 29 August.
The service will be operated thrice a week on a 189-seater Boeing 737-800 New Generation…
Statistics of June 2013 state that Muscat’s Grand Mall has welcomed over half a million visitors. The Mall is home to over 120 international brands, many of which have entered the Oman…
IndiGo has announced to increase its frequency between Muscat and Mumbai to seven weekly flights.
The new flights will come into effect from 16 June 2013. The low cost carrier…
Braemar Golf managed facility Muscat Hills Golf and Country Club in Oman hosted UK tour operator Group Golf.
The group played the three grass golf courses in Muscat at Ghalla Valley,…
Cluttons recently released its report on the hospitality industry in Oman.
As per the report, the market is characterised by a notable number of new developments. Cluttons predicts…
HE Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Salim al Futaisi, minister of transport and communications inaugurated a Testing and Training Centre at Muscat International Airport, as reported in Muscat…
Omani culture is brought to life through the popular Muscat Festival which is celebrated until 28 Feb 2013.
Oman Air is the Gold Sponsor of the month-long Muscat Festival 2013. The…
The Park Inn by Radisson Muscat recently received the HACCP Certificate (The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) for its efforts in offering safe food to its guests.
The hotel, the…
Passenger traffic through Muscat International Airport rose 16% to 7.5mn in the end of December 2012 compared to 6.4mn passengers for 2011, as reported in Muscat Daily.
According to…
Big Bus Tours along with Travel Point LLC have brought the Big Bus Tours into Muscat.
The operation of these buses was flagged off by HE Maitha Saif Majid Al Mahrouqi, undersecretary of…
Etihad Airways has opened a new sales kiosk in the Muscat City Centre for Ramadan. The new sales kiosk is aimed at keeping pace with growing demand for air travel from the region during this…
Jet Airways has introduced early check-in facility from passengers travelling from Muscat to Thiruvananthapuram and Mumbai.
“Our early check-in facility in Muscat will be useful for the…
The overall passenger traffic (including transit and transfer) through Muscat International Airport has increased by 20% to 3,749,000 passengers till June compared to 3,114,452 passengers…
Interior Hotels Co SAOG (IHC), which owns and operates the Golden Tulip Nizwa property, has signed an agreement to acquire the four-star Park Inn by Radisson Muscat in Al Khuwair. As per the…
The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) in collaboration with Air Arabia recently organised a workshop in Muscat to brief travel and tourism agencies on the tourism…
According to data compiled by STR Global, hotels the Middle East and Africa witnessed for May 2012, the region's occupancy jumped 13.3% to 60.4%, its ADR fell 1.6% to US$146.32 and its…
AJAI PUNJ has been appointed general manager of Muscat Dunes Hotel Al Khuwair. Punj brings with him over 21 years of working experience with some of the world's best hotel brands in India,…
Oman's first fully automatic car parking system has opened at the City Seasons Hotel Muscat. The new facility, which can accommodate up to 306 cars, has been designed to provide a solution…
The Chedi Muscat is set to open its new state-of-the-art, 2,500-square-metre spa and fitness facility next week.The Spa at The Chedi Muscat will be the largest facility of its kind in the…
IndiGo, which will commence operation in the Mumbai-Muscat sector on 10 October, is planning to start services to three South Indian destinations from the Omani capital this winter. The…
Air India Express will operate direct flights from Muscat to three new destinations in Kerala from 31 October. The three flights to Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi are intended to…
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has entered an agreement with the Ministry of Tourism from the Sultanate of Oman to acquire the full management of Al Bustan Palace in Muscat, Oman. Starting 1…
Oman Air has re-commenced services between Muscat and Zanzibar. Flights now operate non-stop between the cities three times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays. Zanzibar represents the…
Etihad Airways has celebrated the fifth anniversary of its service between Abu Dhabi and Muscat, Oman.The airline commenced operations to Muscat in March 2006 with daily flights and today…
Oman Air, the official carrier for Muscat Festival 2011, is manning an information stall for visitors to this year's event at the Qurum Natural Park. The stall is providing visitors…
City Seasons Hotel Muscat will help ease capacity issues in a city that is currently running at 100% occupancy."The city is full and thisproperty fills a gap in the market for a larger…
Following an epic, five-month voyage from Oman to Singapore, the Jewel of Muscat, a traditional Arabian sailing ship built to a 9th Century design, has reached its…
Dubai, UAE, March 28, 2010 - flydubai established new links with old friends this morning as Dubai's first low cost airline touched down in Muscat, Oman, in…
Costa Deliziosa (www.costadeliziosa.com), the latest "diamond" in the Costa Cruises fleet, called at Muscat and Abu Dhabi for the first time on her Grand Inaugural Cruise. …
Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, January 7, 2010 - Grand Hyatt Muscat is proud to introduce a new service for single female travellers. When women are travelling alone for…
Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, January 7, 2010 - Grand Hyatt Muscat is proud to introduce a new service for single female travellers. When women are travelling alone for…
Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, November 24, 2009 - Grand Hyatt Muscat is proud to introduce a new partnership with ZEENAH Events, the market leaders in event…
Oman Air has confirmed it is to launch a new daily service between Muscat and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport this week. Employing Oman Air's new fleet of Airbus A330 aircraft, the…
Oman has signed contracts for the construction of a new superhighway extending from the capital Muscat to the country's border with the UAE, Gulf News reported. The 275km Southern…
The design of the Six Senses Spa sets a new dimension and was created by Six Senses in conjunction with Bangkok-basedinterior designers - P49 Design, and architects Febraur. The…
Work has commenced on upgrading and expanding Muscat International Airport which, when finished in 2011, will see Oman's principal air gateway able to accommodate more than 12…
.Muscat International Airport's new VIP lounge, the Plaza Premium Lounge, has been opened in a ceremony at the Omani hub. The Plaza Premium Lounge is available to all passengers…
Jet Airways has announced the launch of services between Kerala state capital Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) and Muscat, Oman. Effective 15 September the airline will commence direct…
He has 15 years experience in the industry, beginning his career with the group in 2001.Morley joins the hotel at a time it undergoes a renovation. His last post was Executive…
KLM suspended services between Amsterdam and Muscat in early 2002.A release said Muscat has developed into a key market in the Middle East, in terms of both business and leisure travel.…
The appointment of Maha Al Balushi as the first female Omani Captain for Oman Air marks a significant milestone in the country’s aviation sector. At a ceremony conducted at Oman Air’s…
Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has unveiled its summer schedule for 2023, continuing its ambitious and dynamic fleet and network growth strategy.
The number…
Continuing its ambitious and dynamic strategy of fleet and network expansion, Oman Air, the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, has unveiled its summer schedule for 2023
Adjoining resorts Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah and Shangri-La Al Husn in Muscat have curated a dreamy programme for couples to rekindle relationships during the month of love.
Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has launched its highly anticipated Global Sale, offering up to 23% off Business and Economy Class fares.
Leading luxury hospitality company Four Seasons continues to expand its development pipeline, elevating its experiential offerings and accelerating bold new ventures that capitalise on…
Oman Air and SalamAir expanded their codeshare partnership, add four services with Oman Air codesharing on the following SalamAir - operated frequencies starting from 09 January 2023:
Oman Air, the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, has been named top in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) for punctuality.
As per the results of the 2022 On-Time Performance…
The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Civil Aviation Authority, recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in the field of air transport with the Federal Republic of Russia.
Majid Al Futtaim, the shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, opened Snow Oman on 24 December.
With the arrival of Costa Toscana, Costa Cruises is consolidating its presence in the Dubai market.
The Costa Group opened the Dubai Harbour Cruise Port in December 2021, making it…
Oman Air, the national airline of Oman, has officially inaugurated its highly anticipated route to Phuket, celebrating the first flight with a ceremony at its First and Business Class…
Vistara is launching its first scheduled passenger service to Oman, with the country’s capital Muscat (MCT) set to receive daily service from Mumbai (BOM).
Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s hotel operator, is partnering with Go First, India's ultra-low-cost airline, to offer passengers huge savings on stays in Thailand, Oman and the…
Getting the ball rolling this football season, Oman Air, the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, is offering special GCC fares to Muscat for those planning on heading to the World…
Joining Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the airline will be showcasing its products and services to major global players in the travel and tourism industry, the highlight of which…
Emirates and Air Canada have announced the launch of their codeshare cooperation. The new partnership will allow customers of the carriers to enjoy seamless connectivity to 46 markets…
Offering travellers, a true Omani adventure, Oman Air Holidays has introduced two new packages that showcase the best of Oman’s nature, culture, and hospitality
Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, will offer four flights a week between Muscat and Phuket, one of Thailand’s most popular resort islands, starting 15 November…
Agoda has observed a 26% increase in searches for stays in Dubai and a 20% increase across the wider region (Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Dammam, Abu Dhabi, Muscat and Manama) as Indian fans…
Making the travel experience even more rewarding, Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has launched its Weekend Special campaign, offering up to 20% off Economy class…
The Sultanate of Oman is leveraging golf as an elegant ambassador to highlight the natural beauty of the Sultanate for travellers and to promote its numerous investment opportunities.
Goa Airport has received a request for slots for the arrival of international charter flights from eight destinations, including Russia, which will be approved by the end of September.
Oman Airports company has signed an agreement with To70 of the Netherlands to improve operations inside Muscat International Airport and ensure their smooth flow
Windstar Cruises has announced new cruises to the Red Sea and Persian Gulf, marking a first for the small-ship brand. Cruises begin November 2023, on the all-suite, 312-guest Star Legend.
Kiwis will see a new star in the sky over Aotearoa as Air New Zealand reveals its world-first Star Alliance livery.
The airline’s newest A321neo will sport a one-of-a-kind look – a…
Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman is offering discounts of up to 20% off on Business and Economy Class fares on selected international destinations.
The plan includes establishing a system of governance and updating the legal framework by reviewing and updating the tourism law and its executive regulations
Skål International is honored to participate in the important Tourism Forum for the Mediterranean region -
The Mediterranean Tourism Foundation (MTF) has honored Skål International World…
As part of the commitment to make the first ever FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 hosted in the Middle East and Arab world an all-inclusive gala event, Qatar Airways has tied up with flydubai,…
If you are looking for a truly authentic experience in the Middle East, Oman is the place to be. It has a rich cultural heritage; stunning scenery; and luxurious hotels to match.
Despite the pandemic headwinds that the global hospitality industry has had to contend with, new hotel development in prime spots in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and the UAE remains substantial
With a vision to transform the tourism in Oman in accordance with Oman Vision 2040, Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) has revealed the masterplan and brand identity of ‘Yiti’ -…
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently staged a special tourism marketing mission to Dubai, the UAE, that resulted in stronger ties with strategic airline partners and a wider…
A report on Reuters on Sunday stated that Oman Air had decided to apply for membership in the Oneworld Alliance, whose chairman currently is Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways.
Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN), has launched a new ‘Creatourism’ programme, aiming to promote art, culture and heritage in various development projects and hotels of the group
Emirates is scaling up services with additional route resumptions and more flights across its European network, responding to the easing of international entry protocols and an upsurge in…
Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, operated two regularly scheduled passenger flights with fully vaccinated crews to two separate domestic destinations in the Sultanate…
Gulf Air begins the summer season with 80% of its pre-pandemic destinations as it continues to resume operations and restore services to cities of its original 2019 destination network.
Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism have signed an agreement with Qurm Stone Development for developing a tourism project in Muscat at an investment of USD 155 million
GHM has announced plans to open a new luxury resort, composed of 59 rooms and suites as well as 32 chalets and villas at Katara Cultural Village in Qatar’s capital city, Doha
Oman’s Supreme Committee has decided to lift the ban on entry to and exit from the Sultanate through various land, air and sea outlets starting from 29 December
Featuring: David Bowden.. Singapore Airlines (SIA) returned to New York in early November, when it launched non-stop flights between Singapore and John F. Kennedy International Airport…
Eckart Pfannkuchen has now been appointed general manager of the 131-room Steigenberger Hotel Treudelberg Hamburg. In this new capacity, he will be responsible in future for all…
Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has launched a global Heroes Campaign to celebrate and recognise the tireless work medical workers are undertaking around the world.
The campaign, which…
Centara Hotels & Resorts has launched an initiative to support courageous medical staff by providing complimentary hotel rooms and meals. Centara Grand at CentralWorld in Bangkok has…
LEVA Hotels & Resorts has pledged its support to the hospitality industry by continuing expansion across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Africa and Europe. The group…
Unearth the paradise that is Oman and find out why it is one of the safest places to holiday as well as learning about historical landmarks that you can visit there.
Swiss-Belhotel International strode into the Oman market this week, with the soft opening of its first property in the country, Swiss-Belinn Muscat.
Launched as part of the company's…
JW Marriott, part of Marriott International, announced the opening of JW Marriott Muscat, setting the stage for distinctive experiences in Oman’s historic capital. Located in the heart…
GHM has announced plans to launch The Chedi Kudavillingili, its first resort in the Maldives, later this year. The 99-villa property will feature 36 overwater villas, a 150-metre-long…
tajawal, the Dubai-based online flight and hotel booking platform, listed some of the romantic destinations that are perfect for the upcoming Valentine’s Day weekend.
Leva Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement with the Golden Group Holding to manage two hotels in Muscat, marking the debut of the Leva brand in Oman. While the 85-room Safeer…
As part of an aggressive expansion strategy, GoAir is adding 12 flights to its route network taking its tally to over 325 daily services. The new services will operate between Delhi…
UNIGLOBE Travel has expanded its network in the Middle East with the addition of UNIGLOBE Bahwan Travels in Muscat, Oman and UNIGLOBE Nasser Air Travel in Dubai, UAE.
“At UNIGLOBE,…
GoAir has launched flight services on seven new international routes, including three new destinations Bangkok, Dubai and Kuwait, as part of its overseas expansion plans, starting 19…
s
Passenger traffic in Asia-Pacific recorded moderate growth in March at 2.0% and a slight decline at -0.3% in the Middle East. This was revealed by the Airports Council International…
The national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, Oman Air, has commenced its new daily direct service between Greece and Oman, with the first flight departing Muscat International Airport…
We caught up with Jeremy Canivet, newly-appointed DOSM at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, about what’s new for 2019 and raising the bar in luxury hospitality.
Oman Air added Russia to its expansion campaign this week, when it announced its very first flight to the country, with the arrival of flight WY 181 at Moscow Domodedovo Airport.
Marking a new era in its legacy, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel reopened following a period of enhancements that includes redesigned rooms and suites, refreshed Ritz Kids…
Oman Air has announced details of the latest addition to its schedule of global network this week, with the introduction of a new daily flight to and from Athens, set to fly as of June 2019.
General Hotel Management Ltd (GHM) has announced the opening date of the Al Bait Sharjah, the company’s follow up to its debut in the Arabian Peninsula, the Chedi Muscat.
Following the recent celebration of its first year operating out of Manchester Airport, in the UK, Oman Air has announced it will be appraising the current make up of its service network in…
Collinson, a company specialising in loyalty and benefit reward schemes, has announced it will be extending customer access to lounge facilities in the Middle East with two new partnerships…
Located in one of London’s most prestigious and fashionable addresses, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park has completed its multi-million-pound restoration - the most extensive in 115 years.
Mandarin Oriental Group has announced its plans for a new resort and branded residences in the port capital of Oman. Scheduled to open in 2021, Mandarin Oriental, Muscat will be the latest…
Oman Air announced the development of its Asia Pacific network this week when it released details of its new codeshare agreement with Bangkok Airways. The agreement, which went into action…
Plaza Premium Group has announced they will be unveiling the first European location of their international airport transit hotel brand Aerotel, at London Heathrow Airport Terminal 3 this…
Minor Hotels' new brand extension, AVANI+, aims to take things slightly higher by using, “a little bit extra” to enhance the existing brand without creating a new one. We spoke to…
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is gearing up for another year of significant portfolio expansion as it forges ahead with plans to open 11 new properties in nine countries by the end of 20
G Adventures has released its 2018 collection of Classic trips featuring 34 new itineraries, including Oman. This is the first time the company has offered trips to the destination.
The…
Twenty14 Holdings, Lulu Group International's hospitality investment arm, recently purchased The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian for £85 million.
Oman Air has expanded its Asia Pacific network with the signing of a codeshare partnership with Malaysia Airlines.
Effective immediately, Oman Air passengers will be able to connect…
Centara Hotels & Resorts recently appointed Aviareps to conduct the hospitality brand’s sales promotion activities within the Arabian Gulf countries of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar,…
Centara Hotels & Resorts has continued to expand internationally with the recent opening of a 152-room hotel in Muscat.
The Centara Muscat Hotel is located in the Omani capital’s…
Centara Hotels & Resorts has continued to expand internationally with the recent opening of a 152-room hotel in Muscat.
The Centara Muscat Hotel is located in the Omani capital’s Ghala…
Corinthian Travel has created a new trip to Oman entitled, Camping in Oman: Family Holiday.
The private tour combines stays by the Indian Ocean in Muscat and Salalah, with a five-day…
Barr Al Jissah in Muscat, Oman has announced a programme of activities and events for 2017.
Throughout the year the destination will offer a programme of entertainment, sports activities,…
Rotana has signed a management agreement with Golden Group Holding (GGH), an Oman-based business group for a new hotel project in Muscat, Oman.
The agreement was signed by Nasser Al…
Innside Yogyakarta
Location: In the Sleman area of the Indonesian city, about eight minutes' drive from Adisucipto International Airport
Grade: Upper-midscale
Keys: 242
Facilities:…
Oman Air is continuing its expansion across Europe and North America after signing a new partnership agreement with Lufthansa.
Under the new agreement, Oman Air passengers can connect…
Hotels developed in and around the region’s shopping malls can expect to post an Average Daily Rate (ADR) that is 25% higher than hotels that are not co-located with a major retail…
Premier Holidays has introduced cruising itineraries to its 2017 Luxury Collection.
The new Luxury Collection brochure – which showcases a selection of high-end properties in spectacular…
SpiceJet has launched flights to its seventh international destination: Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh.
The new short, cross-border hop between Kolkata and Dhaka commenced on 23…
P&O Cruises has announced details of an Arabian Gulf fly-cruise programme, the first time it has ever based a ship in the region.
Between January 10 and April 4 2019, P&O Cruises…
MSC Cruises has unveiled details of its first ever cruise to Japan.
The new 28-night voyage from Dubai to Yokohama will depart on 31 March 2018, aboard the 3,900-passenger MSC…
SalamAir, Oman’s new budget airline, has launched its first international destination.
The double daily service to Dubai will operate from Muscat International Airport to Dubai World…
Compared to its bustling neighbour Dubai, Oman’s quiet, natural and fairly tourist-free — for now.
“I’ve seen a growing request for travels to Oman,” says Simon Cameron, founder and…
Investment in Oman’s burgeoning tourism sector set to hit $1.17 billion by 2026, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).
The total contribution of travel and tourism…
Oman Airports has reported record passenger growth at Muscat and Salalah International Airports in 2016.
Passenger traffic at Muscat International Airport exceeded 12 million…
Oman Air has denied a report that one of its aircraft was diverted due to a bomb threat.
A Kuwaiti newspaper reported that one of the Omani national carrier's flights had been…
Oman's first budget airline, Salam Air, has reportedly revised it launch plans with passenger flights now set scheduled to commence on 30 January.
The low-cost airline, which had…
Thai AirAsia X is suspending all of its Middle Eastern operations, just a few months after it entered the region, the Bangkok Post reports.
The Bangkok-based low-cost carrier started…
The Rixos Group of hotels plans to increase its portfolio to 32 hotels worldwide by 2018, with a strong focus in the Middle East.
The company has already revealed plans to open another…
Oman Air launched its inaugural flight to Guangzhou late last week.
The new route marks the airline's arrival in China and the flights will now operate four times a week using a…
Oman Air has introduced Oman Air Pass, offering regular travellers between Muscat and Salalah with the chance to pre-purchase an online booklet containing eight one-way tickets with…
Business travel to the Sultanate of Oman is set to get a major boost following the opening of the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) last month.
The venue will further…
Oman Air will start flying non-stop to mainland China for the first time next month, with the launch a new route to Guangzhou.
First unveiled in 2014, the new service will become the…
The Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) has launched the first phase of the Mina Al Sultan Qaboos Waterfront Project in Muscat.
The first stage of the integrated mixed use waterfront…
Oman Air has today unveiled the Oman Air Flight Training Centre (OAFTC), a state-of-the-art facility which enables pilots and cabin crew to train realistically for operating aboard both…
IndiGo will expand its operations at Chennai next month with the launch of a new international route.
On 15 December 2016, the low-cost carrier will commence daily flights between the…
Oman Air has pledged its allegiance to the UK trade as the airline continues to up capacity, develop new routes and improve its product and service offering out of London Heathrow and soon,…
Respected MENA operator Rotana Hotels & Resorts has revealed ambitious plans to operate 100 hotels by 2020, with UK and European expansion high on the agenda.
The firm is on…
Rotana is driving forward its ambitious vision of operating 100 hotels by 2020, with the opening of 16 new properties by 2017.
The group’s ongoing strategic growth momentum will…
Oman Air has expanded its codeshare agreement with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines to provide additional travel options between Oman and Europe.
With immediate effect, Oman Air’s customers…
Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas has opened the doors to the highest five-star resort in the Middle East with the launch of Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort.
Perched 2,000 metres…
Jet Airways is expanding its operations between India and the Gulf with the addition of 11 more weekly flights to two destinations.
On 30 October 2016, the Indian carrier will start…
Oman Air will introduce a four times weekly service from Muscat to Najaf, in Iraq from November.
It is expected the flights will further strengthen political, economic and cultural ties…
Oman’s Ministry of Tourism and Oman Air have conducted multi-city roadshows in India in a bid to boost tourism numbers from the Sultanate.
The roadshow commenced on 19 September at…
The AVIAREPS Middle East Travel Caravan 2016 has reached its final destination - Oman.
The event is a calendar of travel industry networking events that brings together some of the…
New research from global travel deals publisher Travelzoo has revealed the falling value of the pound, combined with concerns over security, are having a direct impact on travel within…
Oman Air will increase the frequency of its Muscat-Paris service to daily from 30 October 2016.
Abdulrahman Al Busaidy, Deputy CEO and Chief Commercial Officer of Oman Air, said: “As…
AVIAREPS has launched the ‘AVIAREPS Middle East Travel Caravan 2016’ – a calendar of travel industry networking events that brings together some of the world’s leading destination, aviation…
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has re-opened the doors to the iconic Sheraton Oman following a transformative renovation of its guestrooms, public spaces and food and beverage offerings.…
Oman Air has started upgrading the interiors of its long-haul Airbus fleet.
The airline recently welcomed back an A330-200 aircraft featuring the new seats and cabin products that will be…
Oman Airports’ has returned from the World Routes forum in Chengdu, China, as the company looks to develop better air connections between Asia and the Sultanate.
The commercial…
Hotels in the Middle East reported mixed August 2016 results in the three key performance metrics when reported in US dollar constant currency, according to data from STR
Compared with…
Oman Air’s Chief Executive Officer Paul Gregorowitsch has delivered a key report on the airline’s progress and plans for continued expansion.
In a press conference, he outlined the…
UK tour operator Explore is brochuring Oman for the first time.
The Sultanate is one of 12 new destinations added to its 2017- 2018 Family Adventures Programme.
Explore has operated…
Oman Air has introduced the Media Box digital news concept at its revamped premium lounges at Muscat International
Media Box is a comprehensive e-paper media library service developed by…
flydubai on Thursday announced total revenue of AED2,302 million ($627 million) for the first half of 2016, a 5.4% increase compared to the same period last year.
The low-cost…
Oman Air will fly to Guangzhou in China from its Muscat hub four times a week from December, the airline said in a tweet on its official twitter handle.
“From December 9, 2016, we will…
Shaza Hotels, a specialist in both family- and halal-friendly accommodation, plans to expand its portfolio from one to 20 properties by 2020.
The Dubai-based hospitality group, a joint…
Oman Air has revealed plans to fly four times weekly to Najaf in Iraq from 15 September.
It will mark the first time the airline has operated a service to Iraq - a Boeing 737-800 aircraft…
Oman Air is expanding capacity on its routes to and from Salalah in response to customer demand.
The airline is expanding its capacity to the principal city of Dhofar, in Southern…
Oman Air is continuing its ambitious fleet and network expansion plan, with the airline signing a letter of intent (LOI) with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd for the sale and leaseback…
Oman’s tourism sector reported significant year-on-year declines in June, with visitor numbers and revenues falling.
According to the latest Tourism Index Report – June 2016, published by…
Rabih Zein has been appointed general manager of Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah. Formerly a cluster general manager of Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence
Duqm and Park Inn by…
There are 183 hotel projects and 54,000 hotel rooms in the UAE pipeline, according to a new report.
The hotel construction report by TOPHOTELPROJECTS prepared exclusively for The…
Oman’s newest airline, Salalah Air, will start operating short-haul domestic services across the Sultanate from November, the carrier’s CEO and founder has said.
In an interview with…
Makkah and Medina in Saudi Arabia were the only major hotel markets in the Middle East to experience increases in revenue per available room (RevPAR) during Ramadan 2016, according to data…
An Oman Air flight landed safely at DAR International Airport in Tanzania on Saturday 16 July following two burst nose wheels
“Thanks to the professionalism of the well trained crew, no…
UK travellers can now book ferry travel in Oman with Direct Ferries, the ferry travel comparison site.
Direct Ferries is the first European agent to work with the National Ferries…
Jet Airways is serving up a new gourmet menu on board its international flights from Kerala to destinations across the Arabian Gulf.
Part of the airline’s ‘Guest First’ initiative, the…
Jet Airways is serving up a new gourmet menu on board its international flights from Kerala to destinations across the Arabian Gulf.
Part of the airline’s ‘Guest First’ initiative, the…
An STR analysis of the first half of Ramadan 2016 indicates that Mecca, was the only major hotel market in the Middle East to experience an increase in revenue per available room…
Thai AirAsia X has continued its push into the Middle East with the launch of its inaugural flight to Oman.
The long-haul low-cost carrier touched down in Oman's capital Muscat for the…
Oman Air has reaffirmed its support for initiatives of Oman’s Ministry of Social Development (MOSD).
In addition, the airline has restated its commitment to sustainable social…
Oman Air is planning to significantly expand its network in India with almost 50 additional weekly flights expected to be launched by 2018.
The Times of India quoted the Omani…
In an effort to support the tourism growth during the Khareef season, Oman Air is to operate more flights than ever before to Salalah.
The airline has increased frequencies to Salalah…
The Taiwan Tourism Bureau’s Middle East office is adopting a two-pronged approach to capture the growing numbers from this region.
The tourism bureau held multi-city roadshows as a…
Royal Jordanian has announced an expansion of the code-share agreement with Qatar Airways.
This new agreement will see addition of six new destinations to Royal Jordanian’s network.…
In a recent development, Oman Air Holidays has launched the first fully online holidays booking engine in Oman.
The holidays’ division has unveiled a new website and booking system at…
Oman is set to become a major regional centre for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) following establishment of the new Oman Convention Bureau by the Ministry of…
Oman Air has announced its intent to introduce its Airbus A330-200 aircraft to Doha route.
The new aircraft will be deployed from 1 June 2016. The A330s will operate every Sunday,…
Oman Air recently announced its intent to launch a new service between Muscat and Mashhad effective 1 June 2016.
This is the airline’s second destination in Iran, following launch of…
Following the recent announcement of its first flights to Iran, Thai AirAsia X has continued its Middle Eastern expansion with the launch of services to Oman.
The new direct service…
Oman Air has confirmed its intent to start operating daily flights from Muscat to Manchester.
The new service is scheduled to begin from 1 April 2017.
The United Kingdom has always…
Air India Express is launching new direct flights connecting Delhi with two UAE cities: Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The airline commenced daily direct flights between Delhi and Dubai on…
Majid Al Futtaim recently announced the construction of Mall of Oman.
The project when it opens in 2020 will be the largest integrated retail, leisure and entertainment destination in…
Wyndham Hotel Group recently announced signing of two new properties in Oman, under the umbrella of two brands - Ramada Encore and Ramada Hotel & Suites.
The three star Ramada…
Progress for the construction of the new Oman Convention Bureau was recently announced by the Ministry of Tourism, Oman.
Details of the new Bureau’s operating remit and planned…
The Ministry of Tourism, Oman recently announced at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2016 plans to more than double number of international visitors the Sultanate over the next two…
Oman’s Ministry of Tourism represented by HE Undersecretary Maitha Al Mahrouqi has announced its participation at IMEX 2016.
The exhibition will provide the Ministry with a platform…
Oman Air will launch a second daily flight between Muscat and London Heathrow Airport on Tuesday 12 April 2016.
The new outbound service will be a night flight, departing Muscat every…
Cham Wings Airlines has announced its first flight from Damascus International Airport to Imam al-Khomeini Airport in Tehran.
The new launch was within its plan to widen external…
Oman Air recently reaffirmed its commitment to Omanisation through its continuing recruitment of cabin crew teams of young Omani citizens.
Omanisation is the Sultanate’s policy of…
Oman Air recently unveiled Service by Design, a brand-new innovative inflight dining option for its first class customers.
With the slogan ‘Choose your own Chef’, Service by Design…
In line with the government's ninth five year development plan and under the leadership and vision of HM Sultan Qaboos, the Oman Airport Management Company (OAMC) has unveiled the five…
In a recent development, Oman Air’s shareholders received positive financial results for 2015. This was announced at the airline’s annual general meeting (AGM) in Muscat.
Oman Air’s…
As the Sultanate forges ahead with plans for economic diversification, Omran has taken the lead in the country's tourism and real estate infrastructure, developing hotels, beach resorts,…
Hospitality Management Holdings (HMH) recently announced its intent to enhance its presence in the Oman market.
In this light, Muzn Oman Commercial (S.A.O.C.) signed a management…
Oman’s first budget airline will fly under the brand name 'Salam Air', according to Muscat National Development and Investment Company (ASAAS).
The name, which is derived from the…
Kuwait Airways has revealed changes to its baggage policy 'Baggage made simple' under which all its routes will operate on a piece concept basis.
According to Muscat Daily, the new…
Hotels in the Middle East reported negative results, while hotels in Africa recorded mixed results in the three key performance metrics, according to January 2016 data from STR Global.…
Oman Air recently held a global conference in Muscat aptly titled – ‘To become the Best’.
The event focused on the airline’s continued expansion and was officially opened by HE Maitha…
Oman Air recently announced a new code-share agreement with Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) for flights between Muscat and Bangkok.
As per the new…
Azamara Club Cruises has announced its first global cruise tour.
Launching in 2018, the 102-day cruise onboard Azamara Journey will begin in Sydney on 7 March and end in London on 17…
The last year turned out to be a successful close for Etihad Airways.
The airline carried 17.4 million passengers resulting in a significant increase of 17% over 2014, and operated…
The month of November worked out to be a positive month for Dubai Airports.
Passenger traffic at the airport for international traffic registered a year on year increase of 8.1% in…
Oman Air has recently appointed Elite Travel as its new general sales agent (GSA) for Bahrain.
The company is the largest BSP travel agency in Bahrain, with seven outlets around the…
British Airways recently announced its intent to fly the new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, complete with a new First cabin on the Dubai route from October 2016.
This announcement follows…
Big Bus Tours recently announced launch of its latest operation in Al Ain.
The new tour includes a full day tour covering eight key landmarks in Al Ain, such as Al Qattara, Hili Fort,…
To mark the launch of British Airways’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on its daily London-Abu Dhabi-Muscat service on 6 November, the airline recruited Hollywood star and Australian Margot Robbie…
In a recent development, Oman Air announced its support for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Sultanate.
The airline showed its strong appreciation by participating in…
Oman Air is set to increase frequencies on four of its key destinations to India.
The number of flights from Muscat to Goa will increase from six per week to one a day. Further, daily…
Oman Air is set to significantly increase its operations in India, with additional frequencies on five routes.
The number of flights operated from Muscat to Goa will rise from six per…
Oman recently hosted staff, including more than 50 airport managers from around the world.
The event in Muscat was Oman Air’s Airport Service Managers conference with an apt theme ‘To…
In a recent development, Golden Group of Companies and Taameer Investment SAOC signed an agreement to build one of the largest hotels chain in alliance with Rotana group in Muscat, Sohar…
British Airways recently celebrated launch of its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on its daily London-Abu Dhabi-Muscat service.
The launch witnessed A-listers such as Australian actress…
The recent announcement of Oman Air’s winter schedule 2015-16 has witnessed introduction of a new service to Dhaka.
The airline’s service between Muscat and Frankfurt is now being…
Oman Air's inaugural flight to Dhaka touched down on Sunday 25 October.
The new route will initially operate four times a week, every Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, direct from…
Plaza Premium Group, which operates independent lounges at airports across the world, has unveiled its global expansion plans, including the launch of a new hotel concept.
At a press…
Frankfurt will soon welcome the first Oman Air Boeing 787 Dreamliners this autumn.
Oman Air’s chief executive officer, Paul Gregorowitsch announced that the aircraft will begin flying…
Oman Air’s first Boeing 787 Dreamliner took off on its inaugural flight from Muscat to Salalah.
The flight was hosted by Oman Air’s chief executive officer, Paul Gregorowitsch and…
Maisarah Islamic Banking Services signed an agreement with Shaza Oman to finance construction of its flagship five-star hotel in Muscat.
The agreement was signed by Abdul Hakeem Al…
Oman Air has held a major emergency response exercise in Muscat.
The exercise got together senior managers, operational team leaders and an eight member exercise control team to test…
Oman Air will soon deploy the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner in October to Salalah.
The aircraft will fly from Muscat to Salalah. The flight will be hosted by members of Oman Air’s…
Thomson Cruises has announced that the Thomson Celebration cruise ship will be operating from the port of Dubai for the first time next winter.
On sale from November 2015, two seven…
In a recent development, Thomson Cruises has announced that the Thomson Celebration cruise ship will be operating from Dubai for the first time next winter.
The itineraries will go on…
In a recent development, Dusit International has announced its latest project in the Sultanate of Oman.
Executives from Dusit International, led by managing director and CEO Chanin…
Oman Air is introducing a fifth frequency per week between Muscat and Paris Charles De Gaulle from 25 October.
Oman Air first launched flights from Muscat to Paris in 2009. Abdulrahaman…
Oman Air recently announced its intent to introduce a fifth frequency per week between Muscat and Paris Charles De Gaulle from 25 October 2015.
The airline currently operates four…
Oman Air recently announced its intent to roll out a new multi-segment ticket option, named Oman Air Rahal.
The product offers substantial savings on multiple business class or…
The National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) recently released passenger and flight data of Muscat and Salalah international airports till July-end.
Passenger traffic at…
In a recent development, Pakistan International Airline (PIA) has announced its intent to start direct flights to Salalah.
The airline is awaiting government approvals which are…
Why did the role at Oman Air appeal to you and now you’ve been in the role nearly two months, what do you believe are the airline’s top qualities?
The prospect of working with an…
Tourism in Oman will be given a new perspective. The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) is implementing several projects in Al Wusta governorate to attract more visitors, as per a report in…
In a recent development, Oman Air has announced its intent to further increasing customer choice by operating a range of codeshare partnerships.
The airline is currently increasing…
Oman Air recently extended its support as the official airline of the annual Salalah tourism festival.
As part of the airline’s participation, Oman Air has set up a stall in the…
flydubai recently announced its intent to commence new passenger services from Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC).
This will be with effect from 25 October 2015 in…
British Airways will soon take delivery of its first Boeing 787-9 aircraft in 2015 with UAE, Oman and Delhi routes to be served.
The airline has announced that the new Boeing 787-9…
British Airways is set to take delivery of its first Boeing 787-9 aircraft in 2015 with the UAE, Oman and Delhi routes among the first to welcome the Dreamliner.
The airline has…
A recent survey from HVS reported that average occupancy rate at Beirut hotels stood at 56.1% during the 1996-2014 period.
This is the second-lowest rate among 14 cities in the Middle…
Growing trade and tourism links between Oman and Bangladesh is making the former’s national carrier to deploy more flights in this route, as reported by Times of Oman.
Oman Air will…
Salalah recently welcomed the new airport which boasts the latest facilities and equipment.
The airport includes a passenger terminal of more than 65,000 square meters and can…
MSC Cruises S A and Etihad Airways have recently entered into a new partnership agreement that will benefit MSC Cruises' guests travelling to Abu Dhabi and UAE.
The partnership will…
Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) recently announced its intent to organize media Iftars across six cities during the Holy Month.
This is being dne to raise…
The Sultanate of Oman’s key performance indicators of hotels recorded an increase last year compared to 2013.
The revenues of hotels in 2014 stood at OMR216.52mn compared to…
Oman Air and Garuda Indonesia have recently entered a new code share agreement.
The agreement will enable the airline’s customers to book flights, operated by Garuda Indonesia,…
The upcoming Khareef season will see Oman Air significantly increase number of flights Muscat and Salalah.
The increase will mean that the airline operates more flights to Salalah.…
One of the world’s most modern cruise ships, Quantum of the Seas, has visited India for the first time.
The 18-deck liner, which is operated by Royal Caribbean, carried approximately…
The Middle East/Africa region reported negative year-over-year results in the three major performance metrics during April 2015 when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by…
Oman Air will continue its expansion in Southeast Asia next month, with the launch of a new daily direct service to Kuala Lumpur.
The airline launched its KL service in 2010, with…
Jet Airways has extended its seat selection service to the travel trade.
This new offering will enable passengers to pre-select their seat when making a flight reservation via an…
Oman Air has praised the “vital work” of travel agents at a ceremony held recently at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, Muscat, Oman.
Chief executive officer Oman Air, Paul…
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc recently announced that it will double its portfolio in the Middle East.
The Group plans to open 50 hotels by 2019. Reaffirming its growth…
Oman’s Ministry of Tourism is showcasing several important projects during the 2015 Arabian Travel Market.
Some of the projects include the international airports in Muscat and…
In an effort to strengthen its regional presence, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts recently announced its intent to ramp up its regional footprint by more than 10 hotels by 2020.
The…
The Association of Women Travel Executives (AWTE) has confirmed its new team of directors following its 2015 AGM.
Chair: Debbee Dale (Debbee Dale Development, MD)
Vice Chair:…
Oman Air will be enhancing its frequencies on its Muscat-Manila route from three to seven flights a week, as reported by Muscat Daily.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed…
The data park in Mucat recently welcomed Oman Air’s IT Disaster Recovery section.
The move will follow signing of an agreement between Oman Air and Oman Data Park (ODP). Under the…
Expedia.com recently released its top 20 most popular outbound destinations from UAE.
This list was based on bookings performed on Expedia sites. The research examines passenger…
Oman Air has recently launched a new codeshare agreement with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.
The agreement will enable Oman Air's customers to book onto flights operated by KLM between…
Indian low-cost carrier SpiceJet will add more flights to Muscat next month.
Commencing on 13 May 2015, the airline will increase its Ahmedabad-Muscat route from three to five flights…
The forthcoming Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2015 will see HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings focus on family travel and as well as the halal segment.
Laurent A Voivenel, CEO of…
MSC Cruises has added fly-cruise sailings from the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi to its upcoming winter season.
Between December 2015 and March 2016, the cruise line will offer 16 week-long…
Oman Air has launched a brand new service to the Indian resort enclave of Goa.
The new service, which was first announced in January 2015, touched down in Goa for the first time on 29…
Qatar Airways has unveiled a series of measures designed to enhance its connectivity in the Far East.
This summer, the airline will increase the number of flights it operates to…
Oman Air has revealed its 2014 results, which showed the airline’s revenues increased 4% year-on-year to RO398 million ($1.033bn), while its losses fell 4% for RO95.86 million.
In…
In an effort to boost visitor numbers from Oman, Orange County Visitors Association (OCVA) of California has recently toured the Sultanate.
The tourism association visited Oman for…
A Switzerland Tourism delegation and representatives of over 40 tourist destinations, companies and hotels travelled through GCC states recently.
This visit included Jeddah, Dammam,…
Recent statistics state that number of Omani tourists arriving in India remains unchanged, in spite of rising number of H1N1 flu deaths in the South Asian country, as reported by Times…
Oman Air recently welcomed representatives of several Arab airlines in Muscat.
The airline played host to a meeting on aviation emergency response planning. The meeting of the…
Two of the tyres on an Oman Air aircraft burst while the jet was landing at Delhi Airport this week.
The Boeing 737 aircraft was arriving at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International…
In an effort to secure its regional borders, the government of Oman has deployed border management systems from SITA.
These systems are being deployed to facilitate visitor movement…
Increasing demand for international branded serviced apartments has resulted in the growth of this sector in the GCC.
“The region’s demand for serviced apartments is in line with…
Air India has operated a series of all-female crewed flights to mark International Women's Day.
On its international network, the national carrier operated all-female flights on the…
Gulf Air recently inked a strategic sponsorship agreement with Bahrain Airport Company to host the inaugural Routes Middle East & Africa.
The event will take place in Bahrain from…
Oman Air will continue to grow its South Asian network this year, with the addition of new services to Goa and Dhaka.
The Middle Eastern carrier already operates flights to 17…
Oman Air will continue its expansion in Southeast Asia this month, with the launch of flights to Singapore.
The Middle Eastern airline has flown to Bangkok for several years and in…
Park Inn by Radisson Muscat and Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm recently received the ‘Green Key’.
The hotels received this certification based on 12 criteria which…
The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) road show series has kicked off with Oman.
The event was held at The Chedi Muscat wherein officials met u with key industry players to discuss how to…
Air India Express, the low-cost subsidiary of India's national carrier, is planning to expand its fleet with the addition of multiple new aircraft over the coming years.
The Economic…
Dubai recently played host to the 2nd annual Resort Development & Hospitality Conference.
The event witnessed an opening speech by Laurent A Voivenel, CEO of HMH - Hospitality…
Air Seychelles has added Amman to its route network with the recent expansion of its codeshare with Etihad Airways.
Effective 5 February, Air Seychelles will place its HM code on 14…
ANNA THOMPSON has been named as Cathay Pacific's new director of flight operations, effective 10 April 2015. The move marks a promotion for Ms Thompson, who currently serves as Cathay's…
Air India Express has announced enhanced Free Baggage Allowance (FBA) of 30 kilogrammes for all passengers travelling from Muscat and Salalah to its Indian destinations until March 11.…
The Swiss Belhotel International Group recently announced its intent to open 10 new hotels in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and Iraq in 2015.
This is part of an aggressive…
The recent announcement of Al Futtaim Group acquiring Thrifty car rental is further strengthened with the opening of a new outlet in Oman.
Thrifty Car Rental recently opened a new…
Muscat International Airport recently witnessed the launch of its new North runway. An Oman Air Airbus A330 was the first aircraft to land.
The aircraft was greeted by guest of honour…
The growing potential of Salalah as a tourism hot spot is fast being recognised. Catching up on this trend is Qatar Airways with its announcement of four new services by next February on…
Oman Air’s inaugural flight to Jakarta took off for the first time on Friday, marking the completion of a period of rapid expansion for the airline in Southeast Asia.
The new…
Swiss Belhotel International group has aggressive plans to expand its presence in the Middle East region. The Group’s chairman and president Gavin Faull is of the view that countries…
The recent analysis of the performance of Middle East hotels across the Hajj and Eid Al Adha period showed an impact, according to STR Global. At the start of Hajj, Makkah was able to…
Oman is gearing up for a stronger tourism season. The country is charting out strategic plans to boost its tourism industry. One of the key highlights is the 30-year tourism plan…
The Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) had a new visitor with the AIDAaura at Zayed Port. This was the cruise liner's first visit to Abu Dhabi and the port's second vessel call in the cruise…
Muscat’s Sohar Airport will soon commence operations on 18 November 2014, marking the 44th National Day. The airport opening has been announced ahead of its schedule.
As per a…
Could you give us an overview of your career path?
All I ever wanted to be is a chef. I worked in Australia, did my training and then moved many years later to Grand Hyatt Muscat and…
Muscat International Airport (MIA) recently reported a consistent growth in aircraft movements and passenger numbers for August 2014. The total number of flights increased by 1.1%…
Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company recently inked an agreement with Omani Ministry of Tourism to develop the 'Ras al Hadd' project in the Sur city.
The agreement will witness…
Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East and Africa (MEA) is keenly looking at targeting more European guests. Recent research from Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority for…
In an effort to showcase key cultural events, exhibitions and shows around the Expo 2015 Milano, Italy will hold two workshops in Dubai and Muscat. The decision to hold the workshops…
Oman is primed to lead tourism growth in the Middle East as the Sultanate invests heavily in growing this sector.
According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), total…
The Middle East will be an important asset to Premier Inn’s international expansion. The hotel operator has set its sights on a portfolio of 2,687 rooms across a dozen properties in less…
The Ascott Limited recently signed an agreement to manage a second 117-unit serviced residence in Dubai. The new property - Ascott Culture Village Dubai - is scheduled to open is 2017…
The recent air traffic figures issued by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) reprt that domestic and international traffic movements at Salalah Airport witnessed…
ABOUDI ASALI has been appointed senior vice president for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region for Jumeirah Group. He brings with him over 20 years of experience in the…
Jet Airways is adding three new routes that will boost connectivity between the state of Kerala and the Gulf region.
In the last quarter of the year, the Indian carrier will introduce…
The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) is looking to aggressively promote the business potential of Oman to European countries.
The Centre is participating in a four-leg…
Jet Airways will increase the number of flights it operates to Dubai next month.
Effective 14 October 2014, the Indian carrier will launch a fifth daily service between Mumbai and…
Tourism executives in Oman are calling for talented workers to drive sector growth, but often they find their calls unanswered.
"We are in need of Omani men and women who are willing…
Oman Tourism has announced its largest familiarisation trip for Indian agents to date.
The tourism board is due to host 60 Indian travel agents and tour operators from Mumbai, Delhi,…
Oman Air recently held an ultra-realistic full-scale emergency exercise in Muscat, involving all the airline’s emergency facilities and teams. The exercise was coordinated from Oman…
DUNCAN ALEXANDER has been appointed vice president global alliances and partnerships at Illusions. He brings with him more than 20 years of experience in travel distribution and…
Oman Air recently announced its plan to launch new services from Muscat to Manila and Jakarta from December 2014.
The Manila service will commence from 2 December 2014, with Oman Air…
Air traffic movement at Muscat International Airport (MIA) by the end of the first quarter 2014 witnessed an increase in total number of flights and passengers. The total number of…
The Philippines Embassy in Muscat has announced that representatives of two Filipino travel and tour companies are looking to promote two-way tourism exchange.
CCT 168 Travel &…
The five-star hospitality property – Azaiba Hotels - is all set to be opened in the coming months with the addition of 258 rooms including 24 suites. This will boost tourism to Oman and…
Qatar Airways recently announced increased frequencies to Tehran, Islamabad and Muscat. The additional flights, which include four for Tehran, two for Islamabad and four for Muscat per…
Oman Air has become the latest airline to announce its flights will avoid Iraqi airspace.
The carrier said flights between Europe and Beirut will now be longer as a result of the…
Oman's civil aviation sector received a boost recently with the official opening of the Transitional Air Traffic Control (ATC) Centre at Muscat International Airport by H E Dr Ahmed bin…
Oman is keen to attract the big Indian weddings. This strategy is based on the fact that Oman offers a blend of modern infrastructure and old world charm. Moreover, the destination is…
JCDecaux SA has unveiled a new network of HD digital screens at Muscat International Airport and Salalah Airport, in conjunction with OAMC.
The 103” screens, with high performance and…
The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is strengthening its presence in the Saudi Arabia with secured agreements to manage two more serviced residences. These residences are for the Abdul Samad Al…
The forthcoming annual Khareef season may see some airline make plans to increase flights to Salalah. flydubai is contemplating increasing number of flights to Salalah from Dubai.
A…
Silversea Cruises has announced details of its World Cruise 2016.
Named ‘Venetian World Odyssey 2016’, the 115-day sailing will start in Fort Lauderdale on 5 January on the Silver…
Come 1 December 2014, Emirates will boost the Doha capacity with seven daily flights. The route is currently being served with six daily flights and will overtake the Bangkok route. The…
In an effort to explore new horizons, Market Based Representatives (MBRs) of the Ministry of Tourism (MoT) Oman were welcomed at The Wave. The initiative was to tour the master plan's…
Oman Air is boosting its Muscat to Salalah services to cater for extra demand. The airline is increasing number of services to Salalah from 52 flights per week to 84, from 24 July to 15…
Muscat International Airport witnessed a significant growth in year-to-date aircraft movements and passenger numbers by end of April 2014. The total number of flights increased by 3.5%…
The Oman Ministry of Tourism have recently partnered with Air Arabia. This is in line with the airline’s launch of three new flights to Muscat from Ras al-Khaimah (RAK).
The…
The last month of April has worked out positively for most Middle East and Africa hotels. As per recent reports from STR Global, the Middle East/Africa region reported a two percent…
Oman Air announced its decision to commence operations from Doha Hamad International Airport from today 22 May 2014.
The change in location means that the airline’s services from…
The hospitality sectors in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Jeddah, Muscat and Riyadh are all expected to strong growth through the coming years, driven by megaevents and an improving regional…
Hotel management company, Alila Hotels and Resorts, has opened its first property in the Middle East region with the launch of the Alila Jabal Akhdar resort.
The luxury hotel is…
Air Arabia recently marked the commencement of its operations from Ras Al Khaimah. The inaugural event was attended by HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Saud Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al…
UK tourists visiting Jumeirah Group’s hotels has helped the firm post a rise in profits and revenue for 2013.
British visitors racked up an extra 26% in revenue at the Dubai-based…
In a bid to promote new destination across Thailand, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Dubai & Middle East office is conducting road shows in Bahrain and Oman. The two…
Swiss-Belhotel International has set its sights on a major expansion in the Middle East, with six hotels expected to be operational by 2015. The Group has announced the Swiss-Belhotel…
Oman’s travel and tourism numbers have witnessed strong growth rate. The industry’s contribution to the GDP is expected to rise by 10.2% at OMR 1.08 billion in 2014.
The direct…
Recent reports from STR Global report that the Middle East and Africa region reported a 0.7% decrease in occupancy to 66.9%, a 2.1% increase in average daily rate to US$178.18 and a 1.4%…
Ras Al Khaimah will soon open a new operational hub for Air Arabia. This will be the fourth international base and second in the UAE. The new announcement was made by RAK Department of…
Rotana Jet will continue its international expansion over the next two years, targeting new destinations in the SAMENA region.
Dr Shaikh Ahmad Bin Saif Al Nahayan, Chairman of Rotana…
Oman is fast witnessing a boom in hotel development. This is evident from new chains expanding their presence in the region. One of them is Centara Hotels & Resorts with the opening…
CAPTAIN DHAFFER AL ABBASI has been appointed the chief executive officer (CEO) for the Gulf Aviation Academy (GAA). He brings with him over 20 years of experience in the civil aviation…
Rotana Jet today has announced new routes to its schedule. The airline will soon connect Colombo and Mattala effective 9 April 2014. The airline will operate three flights per week from…
Royal Caribbean International will deploy its Splendour of the Seas in Gulf waters for the winter of 2015-16. The fifth seasonal sailings will comprise 16 roundtrip sailings from…
Etihad Airways can look forward to more European routes with the expansion of the airBaltic codeshare agreement. Subject to government approval, the codeshare include routes from…
flydubai recently announced its results for 2013 which saw the airline gain a net profit of AED 222.8 million (US$ 60.7 m). This is an increase of 47% compared to 2012.
The airline…
Almouj Marina in Oman has launched its new website. The new portal offers visitors a more convenient and easy online service. The portal offers live weather forecasts, full facility…
Oman Air has inked a codeshare agreement with SriLankan Airlines. The agreement allows Oman Air’s customers to book seats on SriLankan Airline’s services from Muscat to Singapore, Male,…
Etihad Airways will expand its network in Southeast Asia with the launch of a new daily service to Phuket.
Due to commence on 26 October 2014, the new service will operate direct from…
Tourism is being ranked a top priority for Saudi tourism officials. The Saudi government is investing heavily in its tourism sector, principally to provide employment opportunities for…
Oman is keen to retain its share of the tourism pie. This country is developing new hotels and resorts and bringing them to market is one of the top priorities. A number of large-scale…
GISELA CIANCIO has been appointed director of human resources at Four Seasons Hotel Doha. In addition to overseeing the Hotel’s HR functions, she will also serve as a member of the…
Bahrain is embarking on a strategic tourism plan to attract more tourists to the country. After a year of steady growth, Bahrain’s tourism industry is on the cusp of an upturn, with…
Etihad Airways has launched daily flights from Abu Dhabi to Saudi Arabia’s religious and cultural centre, Al Medina.
The new service is the airline's fourth destination in the Kingdom…
Growth of Arabian Gulf airports, which are in the midst of multi-billion dollar airport expansions to handle 450 million passengers by 2020, are grappling with mitigating airspace…
Millennium Resort Musannah has a line of projects for expansion during 2014, affirmed general manager Maurice De Rooij. Online travel booking for the resort increased by 125% in 2013 and…
Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa is being considered a key contributor to the economic growth of Oman. The hotel not just provides employment for Omani residents but…
IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has opened Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb, making it the third IHG hotel in the city.
The hotel caters well for business travellers and families. The…
The City Season’s Group of Hotels have charted positive growth in the last nine years. The Group has grown from a single hotel apartment in Dubai to six hotels and suites in Abu Dhabi,…
In a bid to cater for the growing demand of the upcoming tourist season, Oman Air and Oman's Ministry of Tourism have announced the launch of 'Oman Short Breaks'. This initiative offers…
Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, along with Oman Air conducted a familiarisation (FAM) trip for Indian agents.
The group consisted of senior management from tour operators from Mumbai,…
Oman is moving steadily in building a number of projects and initiatives which will bring new economic diversification in Oman’s GDP. The developments will also enhance government…
Oman is seeking to attract more Saudi tourists and businesspeople with financial incentives. Salem Al-Mamari, director of development at the Ministry of Tourism, said the Saudi market…
Recent reports compiled by STR Global for the Middle East and Africa region reported mixed performance results during November 2013. The region reported a 1.7% decrease in occupancy to…
HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, ruler's representative in the Western Region has approved the launch of two weekly flights at discounted rates between Al Bateen Executive Airport…
The new Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) form to travel to the United Kingdom which allows Omani citizens to visit the UK is available on the web, but cannot travel before 1 January 2014.…
Oman Air and Turkish Airlines have signed a codeshare agreement covering services between Oman and Istanbul. The agreement was signed by Wayne Pearce, CEO of Oman Air and Temel Kotil…
Six Senses Hotels Resorts and Spa has announced eight new development concepts and four spa's set to open over the next three years.
The development includes eight new resorts – Six…
Alila Hotels & Resorts has unveiled the three properties it expects to open in 2014.
The Asian boutique hotel company, which currently operates nine properties in India and…
According to World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the annual growth rate projected for the Sultanate of Oman is projected from six to eight percent until 2017 as new investments pour…
How has the year panned out for The Chedi Muscat?
The year has been amazing. The Oman Tourism Board has done a fantastic job promoting the destination. We are just 10 years young but…
Royal Jordanian and Oman Air inked a free sale codeshare agreement thereby boosting passenger services to seven weekly flights between Amman and Muscat. Under the terms of agreement, the…
Oman’s hospitality industry is on the roll, with Amanresorts likely to open its first Middle East property as per reports. The company has set its sight on a town of Shuwaimiya, located…
Dubai is gearing up for a tourist-filled cruise season of 2013-14. The cruise hub is set to welcome more than 20 global cruise lines anticipated to bring in as many as 300,000 tourists…
Qatar Airways has launched its second route to the Philippines.
The airline touched down at Clark International Airport on Monday 28 October2013, following a direct flight from Doha,…
The recent STR Global report for September 2013 on the Middle East and Africa region stated that the region reported a 4.2% decrease to 58.1% in occupancy. There was a seven percent…
Saraya Bandar Jissah is nearing completion on the first phase of construction for Muscat's newest Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC). The first phase was commenced in August 2012 and…
Korean Air has expanded its codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways to include six new destinations.
In the second phase of cooperation between the two carriers, Etihad will place its…
The FBF Group of Companies recently inked an agreement with Arab Malaysia Development Company LLC (AMDC) for the development of RO 40 million mega water theme park in Oman, as reported…
Etihad Airways and airBaltic announced direct flights from Riga-Abu Dhabi. These new flights will commence on 16 December 2013.
The announcement follows a code-share agreement between…
The first golf partnership contract was recently signed between Germany and Oman. The Almouj Muscat club in Oman inked an agreement with Schloss-Miel golf club in Swisttal-Miel, North…
New7Wonders has unveiled the list of cities competing for the honour of becoming one of the world's seven best urban centres.
Following its previous New7Wonders of the World and…
Recent statistics released by the ministry of tourism state that hotel room capacity in Oman is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.3% over the period 2011 to 2016.…
Ethiopian Airlines announced the start of four weekly services to Niamey in the Republic of Niger. The new service will commence from 20 November 2013 with a Boeing 757-200 aircraft. The…
Costa Cruises has welcomed the arrival of the Costa neoRiviera. Effective 24 November 2013, the Costa neoRiviera will be offering a one-week itinerary called ‘The Emirates in style’,…
Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) and the Omani National Investment Funds Company SAOC (NIFCO) recently inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Al-Futtaim.
The MoU was…
NICK WEIR has become Royal Caribbean International's new vice president of entertainment. A former presenter of the UK gameshow 'Catchphrase', Weir has 25 years of experience and comes…
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has charted out a major expansion plan until 2016. The Company has announced several development initiatives that will bring total number of properties in…
Guest-facing technology solutions company Quadriga has launched in the Middle East with a new subsidiary based in Dubai.
In addition to continuing to support the needs of…
Oman Air Learning and Development (OALD) achieved the ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System certification. The section works to improve standards in Civil Aviation for Oman Air's staff and…
MIKE ROCK has been appointed sales manager for Central Asia and the Levant at British Airways. As part of his new role, Rock will be managing the airline’s sales teams across Azerbaijan,…
We see big opportunities across the Asia Pacific region, with a strong focus on expanding in ASEAN countries and the Middle East. Already this year we have opened new hotels in Thailand,…
In a bid to cater to increased passenger demand, Oman Air has added extra flights between Salalah-Muscat-Salalah. This is particularly for Salalah during the Khareef season, which started…
Oman Air is current gearing up its senior staff for the opening of its new airports.
The airline has introduced the first of a regular series of management 'brainstorming' sessions…
Qatar Airways Holidays unveiled their top 20 packages for the Eid Al Fitr holidays. The Eid packages include a number of destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe. The…
The Chennai-based low-cost carrier SpiceJet has announced the addition of three new international destinations.
The carrier will add Bangkok, Muscat and Macau to its international…
The Middle East and Africa region reported a 5.9% increase in occupancy to 61.8%, a 4.0% increase in average daily rate to US$141.21 and a 10.1% increase in revenue per available room to…
Qatar Airways Holidays has expanded its operations across the GCC, with the opening of six Holiday Shops across the region. Two shops have been opened in Dubai and Kuwait.
Additional…
Oman Air has formally opened its new first class and business class check-in lounge at Muscat International Airport.
The facility, which had a ‘soft’ launch earlier in the year, is…
Morocco is leading the region in terms of hotel room demand, according to the latest statistics from STR Global.
Elizabeth Winkle, managing director of STR Global, said the country “is…
Dubai-based Illusions Online has implemented a new client system in record time.
After inking a partnership agreement with one of the GCC region’s leading MICE and FIT specialists, 1001…
Oman Air highlighted its focus on safety when it hosted the recently concluded IATA, ICAO Safety Management Workshop at Hotel InterContinental in Muscat. The event was organised by Oman Air…
Etihad Airways will increase frequencies on services to Amman, Cairo, Islamabad and Muscat from 15 June 2013.
Services to Muscat will increase from 20 to 23 weekly flights, better…
Abdul Samad Al Qurashi Group, one of oldest merchant families in Saudi Arabia, has entered into two management agreements with The Ascott Limited for two Citadines serviced residences in…
MATTHEW VARLEY has been appointed Chief Operating Officer for Wego.com in Asia Pacific and Middle East. Varley will report to Wego.com CEO and Co-Founder Ross Veitch and will be based at…
Gloria Hotels and Resorts recently chalked out an aggressive expansion strategy in the MENA region including but not limited to six new properties in the next year.
Al Fayroz Al Massi…
Qatar Airways has commenced services to Salalah. The Omani capital Muscat is already served 31-times-a-week and with the new four-a-week services to Salalah, Qatar Airways now flies a total…
Oman Air has placed a firm order with Airbus for three new A330-300 aircraft, as it seeks to expand its long-haul operations.
The Muscat-based national carrier currently operates…
Egyptair is to start flights between Manchester and Cairo on 1 June. The new service will operate five times a week on Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Specialist Discover…
Oman Air has placed an order for three Airbus A330-300 wide-bodied aircraft.
The aircraft will be operated on long-haul routes and amounts to an US718.2 million investment.
“The…
Malta’s prime minister Joseph Muscat has given his support to the cruise industry at European Maritime Day, an event jointly hosted by CLIA Europe and Valetta Cruise Port.
Malta has…
The Ascott Limited (Ascott) has forayed into Saudi Arabia by securing a management contract for its first premier serviced residence in Riyadh.
Ascott Olaya Riyadh is slated to open…
Shaza Doha is gearing up for its opening in Spring 2016. The hotel will offer 180 rooms and suites, three dining venues, an executive club, the signature Shaza Hammam & Spa, a Kids'…
Millennium and Copthorne MEA launched its summer 2013 campaign in Dubai. The 'Stamp Your Way This Summer' runs for three months until 15 September 2013.
The campaign focuses on the…
Gloria Hotels & Resorts unveiled its expansion plans for the region at the Arabian Travel Market.
Some of the projects include the pre-opening and full management of a five-star…
The recent statistics compiled by STR Global for Middle East/Africa region reported positive performance results for March 2013. The region reported a 3.8% increase in occupancy to 67.1%, a…
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced the opening of Crowne Plaza Duqm.
The new hotel will join IHG’s three existing Crowne Plaza hotels– Muscat, Sohar and Salalah. The hotel…
In an effort to boost its tourism portfolio, Sharjah has turned its attention to booming Gulf tourism market just before for the long holiday season.
The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism…
An aircruise by private jet from London to Sydney is to take place this September, it has been announced.
Australian firm Bill Peach Holidays will operate the 18-day ‘Passage through…
Oman Air recently entered into a code-share partnership with Ethiopian Airlines in the Muscat and Addis Ababa sector, offering a range of options for customers.
This code-share agreement…
Oman expects to open several new hotels and complexes with more than 2,000 resort and hotel rooms to be added in 2013.
The City of Muscat will see majority of growth with over 720…
The recent hospitality report for the Middle East/Africa region by STR Global revealed a positive performance results for February 2013. The region reported a 6.4% increase in occupancy to…
Under the patronage of HE Mohsin Khamis Al Balushi Advisor, Ministry Of Commerce and Industry, chairman of the Public Authority for Manpower Registration, Oman Air and Airbus recently held…
The Ascott Limited (Ascott) has been given the contract by Katara Hospitality to manage the 200-unit Somerset West Bay Doha. The management contract follows Katara Hospitality's acquisition…
Muriya Tourism Development recently tied-up with Oman Sail who will provide an opportunity for Jebel Sifah visitors to partake in a variety of water sport activities.
The venue will…
The GCC MICE industry might be showing a sustained growth over the years, but challenges facing the industry is also constantly on the rise, according to a senior industry official. Saif…
Riyadh has nearly 8000 rooms in its hotel pipeline, according to figures released by STR Global.
The Saudi capital has the largest expected hotel room supply growth at 103.2%, with 7,990…
AKIRA MORENA has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of GHM's Chinese hotel management company, Ahn Luh. Moreno is currently the Vice President of Development & Pre-Opening…
Hotel occupancies in the Middle East and Africa region have been on an upward trend which is evident from the recent STR Global performance results for January 2013.
As per the report,…
MSC Cruises has announced that it will be returning to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the 2013/ 2014 winter season.
The season is due to start in November 2013 with the MSC Lirica…
A new survey reveals a rebound in market confidence while a boost for regional meetings destinations.
Corporate and meetings business in the Middle East has bounced back from the global…
In an effort to boost its tourism portfolio, the Sultanate of Oman is taking a 360-degree look at its tourism product.
The government is raising investment and private sector interest with…
The first meeting of the Tourism Committee was held recently under Ibrahim al Nabhani, a member of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry and head of the committee to discuss an approved…
Royal Caribbean International’s newly revitalised Serenade of the Seas made her first visit to Dubai and will be homeported until mid-April.
The ship offers cruise enthusiasts an…
Oman Air is further expanding its fleet of Boeing 737-800s with the introduction of two additional aircraft, bringing the total fleet strength to 30.
The expansion follows shortly after…
The Middle East/Africa region reported mostly mixed performance results in 2012, according to data compiled by STR Global.
The Middle East had a good year achieving its third highest…
Autorent opened its first airport counter in Muscat international airport.
The new outlet will cater to both business and leisure travelers to Muscat with a need for rent a car services.…
The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) celebrated the maiden call of Costa Atlantica to Dubai, endorsing the company's commitment to the region for the seventh…
Oman Air launched a direct flight between Muscat and Jaaluni airport at Al Wusta Governorate located on the southern coast of Oman.
The inauguration took place on the sidelines of 42nd…
Airports across the GCC are gearing up to cater to increasing passenger numbers.
The growth has also given rise to increased security dilemmas and a growing demand for more efficient…
Qatar Airways has launched its fifth route of 2013 to Salalah effective 22 May 2013.
The new service will commence with a four-times-a-week service raising the airline's frequencies to…
According to the latest STR Global report for September 2012, the Middle East/Africa region reported mixed performance.
The region's occupancy increased 5.4% to 60.7% during the month,…
The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) in India is planning to open a tourism representative office in Oman. This was revealed at the ‘Incredible India’ tourism road show organised by MoT in…
ROGER BEAUMONT has been appointed chief operating officer for Tibiaan Properties.
His new role would focus on the expansion phase. Prior to the appoint, Beaumont served as vice president…
In a lead-up to its preparation for the 2013 edition, the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM) organizers will be commencing a series of brand new GCC and…
Bollywood has been successfully used by many a tourism board to promote tourism through films, riding on this trend is the Sultanate of Oman. The Ministry of Tourism, Oman recently…
As per the August 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report for Middle East/Africa, Saudi Arabia reported the largest expected room growth with +8.45%, if all 6,413 rooms in the country's…
Tangram Hotels, a newly launched international hotel brand originally established in Beijing has revealed its ambitious expansion plan. The Hotel Group is currently looking at opportunities…
Daily hotel rates are to face price increases in nearly two thirds of overseas destinations, according to Hotels.com’s latest Hotel Price Index (HPI).
Brits are expected to see rates in…
SriLankan Airlines entered into a new age of ‘iPad electronic flying’ by switching from using bulky mandatory paper manuals, to a sleek iPad. This makes the airline Asia’s first to use the…
Best Western International announced the latest addition of its first hotel in Muscat, Oman. The luxury Best Western Premier Muscat is located in Al Khuwair, close to several embassies and…
The government of Kerala has announced plans to launch a new low cost airline, Air Kerala, connecting the state to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The new airline, which will…
Eastin Hotels & Residences is plans to boost its Asian portfolio to 11 properties this year.
The hotel collection, which forms part of Thailand-based Absolute Hotel Services, recently…
The recent data released by STR Global revealed that the Middle East/Africa region reported mostly positive performance results in June 2012. The region's occupancy increased 8.7% to 58.2%…
KOAY PENG YEN has been announced as the new Group Chief Executive Officer for Tiger Airways, effective 10 August 2012. Koay joins the low-cost carrier from his previous role as Executive…
Oman’s Ministry of Tourism has launched a ground breaking campaign to boost travel within Oman over summer, traditionally a time of low travel demand. The ‘Now is the time’ campaign runs…
Oman’s Ministry of Tourism launched a ‘Cool Destinations’ summer campaign on Hotels.com. The campaign will run from July 1st until Sept 30th, 2012 promoting Oman as a summer destination with…
News round-up from Travel Daily Middle East.
Cairo, Muscat lead Middle East occupancy growth: STR
Cairo and Muscat are leading the way in Middle East occupancy growth, according…
Top stories from Travel Daily Middle East this week.
Hard Rock Hotel to open in Abu Dhabi
Hard Rock International recently announced an agreement with Aabar Properties for the…
Oman Air has recorded continous growth in the first five months of 2012. Between January 1st and May 31st, 2012, the airline recorded net passenger revenue which grew by 28%, compared to a…
Oman's Ministry of Tourism partnered with Oman Air to launch a summer travel campaign for Oman's 'Khareef' monsoon season, which is widely celebrated in Salalah. The launch event was held…
Oman’s Ministry of Tourism has launched a new tourism campaign targeting Australian visitors.
Unveiled to mark the World Cup qualifying football match between Oman and Australia, the new…
Oman Air will launch a new daily service between Muscat and the Iranian capital Tehran from September 1st, 2012.
The new route will be operated using Oman Air’s new Embraer 175 regional…
Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) announced a successful end to their road show covering six cities across the Gulf to boost awareness of Qatar's tourism offerings for Eid AL Fitr and Eid Al…
Oman's Ministry of Tourism has partnered with Oman Air to launch a summer travel campaign in time for Oman's 'Khareef' monsoon season in Salalah. Special packages unveiled include discounted…
The Sultanate of Oman's thriving tourism sector is set to welcome Kempinski and Fairmont whose presence will give Oman's skyline a major facelift. Preparations are on for both hotels to open…
The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre is scheduled for completion in 2016. Geoff Donaghy, director of convention centres for AEG Ogden which manages the Oman Centre, said the importance…
The Middle East/Africa region reported mostly positive performance results in April 2012 when reported in US dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global. The figures for April show…
Keeping in line with Oman's Vision 2020, the development of air transport in Oman not only contributes to enhancing the country's Civil Aviation sector, but also contributes to the growth of…
Experts from the hospitality industry have a consistent message: “Now is the right time to invest in the Gulf's growing hotel industry - namely the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Kingdom of…
Oman's resort and hotel portfolio continues to expand with over 2,000 additional rooms scheduled for opening in 2012/ 2013. Muscat witnesses most growth with the addition of 726 rooms, while…
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a growing tourism market for Oman with the number of Saudi nationals visiting Oman reaching 60,000 in 2011, a 17% increase over the previous year. In lieu of…
Could you highlight the key developments in the region?
The Middle East is an important market for us. We have quite a few developments across the region which includes cities such as…
W Hotels Worldwide has recently signed an agreement with Al Sharq Investment LLC to debut a new W Hotel in Dubai on The Palm Jumeirah.
Set to debut in 2016, W Dubai The Palm will feature…
Her Excellency Maitha Al Mahrouqi, minister of tourism for Oman revealed that the room inventory in the Sultanate will rise from 12,000 currently to 20,000 by 2015, while airport capacity…
The Sultanate of Oman's Ministry of Tourism has underlined the need for an Arabian Gulf cruise ship strategy given the steady growth of the cruise ship industry in the region in recent…
During the first quarter of 2012, the major markets across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) reported mixed results in revenue per available room (RevPAR) following mostly positive…
International Air Transport Association (IATA) data is showing a good start to the year with international passenger arrivals to Muscat International Airport showing strong year-on-year…
Swiss-Belhotel International will be announcing the addition of three new Middle East properties to its rapidly expanding regional portfolio at the forthcoming Arabian Travel Market (ATM).…
Travel Point LLC has recently entered into a joint venture (JV) with Big Bus Tours LLC, UK announcing the introduction of City Tours into ‘Oman’.
Tour Oman, which is the Inbound Division of…
Oman's Ministry of Tourism has forecast 10% growth in the sector this year and aims to attract 12 million visitors a year by 2020. Last year, the tourism industry's contribution to GDP was…
Developer Muriya has recently unveiled a 100-berth marina overlooking the Gulf of Oman at Jebel Sifah town. The inland facility was unveiled at a special soft-opening that also showcased…
James Hogan, Etihad's Chief Executive Officer
Etihad Airways has signed up as principal corporate partner of the not-for-profit Australia Gulf Council (AGC). The two organisations…
Oman Air has placed an order for six Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners at the Dubai Airshow. The airline completed an arrangement with Boeing and Kuwait-based leasing company ALAFCO to transfer…
IndiGo today commenced operations of its fifth international destination - Kathmandu on its network. The airline will offer daily flight services between New Delhi and Kathmandu at a return…
Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has launched a brand new three-class service this week on its flagship London Heathrow to Muscat route.
The service is offered…
Abu Dhabi Airports Company has revealed it expects aircraft movements at Abu Dhabi International Airport to increase 8% this coming winter season.Travellers will be offered more than 900…
Oman Air has announced a new joint venture with Bahwan Travel Agencies, which will promote inbound tourism to Oman and outbound holidays to destinations served by the national carrier's…
German airline giant Lufthansa has confirmed plans to increase capacity on its Frankfurt-Abu Dhabi route in October.Flights on route to Abu Dhabi will no longer continue onwards to Muscat,…
The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has forecast that travel and tourism will contribute US$1.93 billion to Oman's total GDP this year, driven by strong tourist arrivals to the…
Indian low-cost carrier, IndiGo has confirmed that it will commence flights to Singapore from 10 October 2011. Sales for the services commenced on Friday. The Mumbai-Singapore route will…
The Indian hospitality sector is beginning to attract more expatriates than ever before due to the booming market. Economic Times said India is expected to add about 100,000 rooms over the…
Oman's Ministry of Tourism has announced that it will host the 3rd Global Geotourism Conference taking place from October 30 to November 1 at the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel. The event will…
Budget carrier IndiGo will soon start services between Dubai and New Delhi and Dubai and Mumbai, company officials was quoted saying in Dubai.The flights between Dubai and New Delhi will…
Oman will build momentum for its tourism and hospitality sectors in 2011 with the opening of new national attractions and a record number of leisure and travel properties and services. The…
Gulf Air has launched a new summer bonanza campaign in association with the Ministry of Culture to celebrate the Bahrain Summer Festival being staged until 31 July. The campaign, being run…
Absolute Hotel Services Group will open its first Eastin Residences property in Oman later this year.Company CEO Jonathan Wigley confirmed the Eastin Residences Muscat, Oman, which…
Gulf Air has launched services to Nairobi. At the gate ceremony held at Bahrain International Airport, Gulf Air COO Capt. Nasser AlSalmi, chief services officer Marcus Bernhardt…
Gulf Air has commenced services to Copenhagen, Denmark. Addressing the media and travel trade at a press meet in Copenhagen, Gulf Air CCO Karim Makhlouf said: "With the commencement of our…
Al Taameer Real Estate Investment Company has published its MENA hospitality report update for June, which found hotel occupancy rates in Kuwait declined 3.0 percentage points YoY to 57.0%…
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has entered an agreement with the Oman Ministry of Tourism to acquire the full management of the Al Bustan Palace in Muscat. The property will be rebranded…
Oman's business tourism sector is poised for further growth following the commencement of construction on the new $1bn Oman Conference and Exhibition Centre in Muscat. The facility - set to…
Royal Caribbean International has announced the deployment of Serenade of the Seas to Dubai for its winter 2012-13 season. Serenade of the Seas will offer vacationers 17 sailings, departing…
Oman Air's First Class passengers departing Muscat International Airport can now benefit from the use of a chauffeur driven Audi A8 that will drive them from the airport's terminal to their…
Lufthansa German Airlines and Swiss International Air Lines have appointed Mark Pey country manager for both airlines' operations in Oman. Pey succeeds Peter Schilter who held the position…
IndiGo, India's second-biggest airline by passengers carried, is gearing up to commence international operations in the first week of August. Domain-b.com, quoting reports and industry…
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has revealed major global expansion plans which will see it operate more than 100 properties worldwide by 2016.The $2 billion expansion programme will see the…
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has revealed major global expansion plans which will see it operate more than 100 properties worldwide by 2016.The $2 billion expansion programme will see the…
Erroneous crew rostering by national carrier Air India left more than 300 passengers stranded at the international airport in Thiruvananthapuram for more than 12 hours from Monday night.…
Royal Caribbean International is extending its third consecutive season in the Middle East with 18 round-trip 7-night sailings and two 12-night sailings from Dubai to India starting in…
Jet Airways has joined the regional airline association known as the Arab Air Carriers Organisation (AACO) as the first partner airline. The association would help Jet Airways and the Arab…