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Novotel and Paris Saint-Germain unveil Nicolas Anelka’s legendary room in Shanghai
Celebrate the legacy of Nicolas Anelka in an immersive hotel room experience at Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao, blending iconic design, storytelling, and world-class hospitality. Legendary Room at Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao Novotel, in collaboration with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), is delighted to unveil the Legendary Room celebrating PSG Legend’s Nicolas Anelka at Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao. As part of the global Novotel Legendary Rooms initiative, this immersive and bespoke hotel room brings to life the legacy of one of PSG’s most iconic players, offering guests a unique blend of storytelling, design, and hospitality. A Tribute to a Football Legend The Novotel Legendary Room at Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao pays homage to Nicolas Anelka, a football legend with a deep connection to both Paris and Shanghai. Trained at the Paris Saint-Germain’s youth academy, Nicolas Anelka played 69 matches for the Club. Later in his career, he made headlines in China by joining Shanghai’s top football Club as both a player and coach, in one of the most high-profile transfers in Chinese football history. His remarkable journey across these two cities made him the perfect fit for this Novotel Legendary Room in Shanghai. A Unique Hospitality Experience Guests of the Legendary Room can expect a personalised journey that blends the thrill of football with Novotel’s signature hospitality. Highlights include: Exclusive memorabilia and decor reflecting Nicolas Anelka’s career. Digital content sharing behind-the-scenes stories and personal insights from Nicolas Anelka. Locally inspired touches that celebrate Shanghai and China. Novotel’s thoughtful amenities, offering the perfect balance of comfort and connection. Digital Content Exclusively for Guests Guests of the Legendary Room unlock exclusive digital content upon check-in. This includes behind-the-scenes insights into Nicolas Anelka, featuring interviews, career highlights, and iconic PSG moments. The digital content includes Shanghai recommendations inspired by the legend’s favourite spots, while younger fans can enjoy interactive content connecting them to Nicolas Anelka. Blending innovation and storytelling, this digital experience enhances the Legendary Room, creating lasting memories for every guest. A Celebration of Balance, Hospitality, and Football Ken Wong, Chief Commercial Officer of Accor Greater China, commented: “Research shows that both business and leisure travellers seek not only comfort and relaxation but also seamless, efficient hotel services that allow them to unwind and make the most of their time. At Novotel, we believe travel is not just about reaching a destination—it is about living the moment, embracing passion, and creating meaningful memories. Through this partnership with Paris Saint-Germain, Novotel is bringing a new layer of excitement to our guests’ journeys, enhancing their travel experience with balance, storytelling, and innovation.” Attending the launch event, Nicolas Anelka, Paris Saint-Germain Legend, shared his excitement: “It’s an honor to see a part of my journey with Paris Saint-Germain and Shanghai celebrated in this room. Every detail has been carefully designed to reflect my career, my memories, and the spirit of the club. I hope visitors will feel this unique connection and experience a true immersion into the world of PSG.” Adding to the celebration, Nadia Benmokhtar, Diversification and Merchandising Director of Paris Saint-Germain, noted: “With this collaboration, we aim to offer our fans a unique and memorable experience by allowing them to relive the key moments in the history of Paris Saint-Germain through its greatest legends. It is an honor to celebrate Nicolas Anelka and his legacy, through a project that transcends borders and embodies the spirit and greatness of Paris Saint-Germain.
Novotel and Paris Saint-Germain unveil the first legendary room with Javier Pastore
Above: Legendary Room at Novotel Jakarta Cikini Celebrate the legacy of Javier Pastore in an immersive hotel room experience at Novotel Jakarta Cikini, blending iconic design, storytelling, and world-class hospitality. Novotel, in collaboration with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), is delighted to unveil the Legendary Room celebrating Javier Pastore at Novotel Jakarta Cikini. As part of the global Novotel Legendary Rooms initiative, this immersive and bespoke hotel room brings to life the legacy of one of PSG’s most iconic players, offering guests a unique blend of storytelling, design, and hospitality. A Tribute to a Football Legend The Legendary Room at Novotel Jakarta Cikini pays homage to Javier Pastore, renowned for his contributions to PSG and the wider football world. Designed to captivate both fans and travellers, the Legendary Room at Novotel Jakarta Cikini features memorabilia, interactive digital content, and decor inspired by Javier Pastore’s life and career. Upon entering, guests are greeted by the iconic colours of Paris Saint-Germain, enhanced by exclusive themed details. A warm welcome includes specially curated PSG-themed amenities, such as sweet bites, chocolates, and a soft soccer ball, adding a personalised touch to the stay. The room features a pop art-inspired headboard with Pastore’s portrait, a vintage framed photograph, and a signed football jersey. A custom-designed carpet, themed cushions and bed linens, and window decal celebrate the magic of Paris. The space also showcases signed memorabilia, such as boots and a ball in a protective display, and a PSG-inspired lamp, bringing the energy of the stadium into the room. The Javier Pastore Legendary Room Experience is a perfect fusion of football passion and Novotel’s renowned comfort Above: PSG Legend, Javier Pastore Garth Simmons, Chief Operating Officer of Accor’s Premium, Midscale, and Economy Division in Asia, expressed his excitement: "Javier Pastore is not just a football hero but a true inspiration to fans worldwide. We are thrilled to honour his legacy with this unique experience at Novotel Jakarta Cikini, Indonesia - one of our flagship Novotel addresses in Asia - proudly curating an unforgettable journey where guests can fully immerse themselves in his legendary story". A Unique Hospitality Experience Guests of the Legendary Room can expect a personalised journey that blends the thrill of football with Novotel’s signature hospitality. Highlights include: Exclusive memorabilia and decor reflecting Javier Pastore’s career. Digital content sharing behind-the-scenes stories and personal insights from Javier Pastore. Locally inspired touches that celebrate Jakarta, Indonesia. Novotel’s signature amenities, offering the perfect balance of comfort and connection. "At Novotel, we believe travel is about more than just a destination, it’s about passion, experience, and unforgettable moments. This is one of those moments,” said Jean-Yves Minet, Global Brand President for Novotel at Accor. “The Legendary Rooms build on the remarkable success of La Suite Novotel by ALL.com at Parc des Princes, which captured the imagination of fans worldwide. Our new experiential room concept with PSG extends this vision, creating opportunities around the world to bring fans closer to the game they love through innovative and unforgettable experiences that celebrate their heroes. This is more than a stay - it’s a journey into the story of football.” Nadia Benmokhtar, Diversification and Merchandising Director of Paris Saint-Germain, adds: “With this collaboration, we aim to offer our fans a unique and memorable experience by allowing them to relive the key moments in the history of Paris Saint-Germain through its greatest legends. It is an honour to celebrate Javier Pastore and his legacy, through a project that transcends borders and embodies the spirit and greatness of Paris Saint-Germain”. Digital Content Exclusively for Guests Guests of the Legendary Room unlock exclusive digital content upon check-in. This includes behind-the-scenes insights into Javier Pastore’s career, featuring interviews, highlights, and iconic PSG moments. The digital content includes Jakarta recommendations inspired by the legend’s favourite spots, while younger fans can enjoy interactive content connecting them to Javier Pastore. Blending innovation and storytelling, this digital experience enhances the Legendary Room, creating lasting memories for every guest.
Novotel Jakarta Cikini introduces Legendary Room with Paris Saint-Germain’s Javier Pastore
Accor hospitality brand Novotel recently collaborated with iconic French football team Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to launch the Legendary Room celebrating Javier Pastore at Novotel Jakarta Cikini. A new addition under the global Novotel Legendary Rooms initiative, this immersive and bespoke hotel room brings to life the legacy of one of PSG's most iconic players, offering guests a unique blend of storytelling, design, and hospitality. Pastore is best-known for his contributions to PSG and the wider football world, and the Legendary Room at the Novotel Jakarta Cikini was designed to captivate both fans and travellers. This unique room features memorabilia, interactive digital content, and decor inspired by Pastore's life and career. Accor’s chief operating officer for its premium, midscale, and economy division in Asia Garth Simmons commented: "Javier Pastore is not just a football hero but a true inspiration to fans worldwide. We are thrilled to honour his legacy with this unique experience at Novotel Jakarta Cikini, Indonesia - one of our flagship Novotel addresses in Asia - proudly curating an unforgettable journey where guests can fully immerse themselves in his legendary story.” More than just a destination Novotel global brand president Jean-Yves Minet said that the hospitality brand believes that travel is about more than just the destination, but also the passion and experience that leads to unforgettable moments. Minet declared: “This is one of those moments. The Legendary Rooms built on the remarkable success of La Suite Novotel by ALL.com at Parc des Princes, which captured the imagination of fans worldwide. Our new experiential room concept with PSG extends this vision, creating opportunities around the world to bring fans closer to the game they love through innovative and unforgettable experiences that celebrate their heroes. This is more than a stay: it's a journey into the story of football.” PSG’s director for diversification and merchandising Nadia Benmokhtar added: “With this collaboration, we aim to offer our fans a unique and memorable experience by allowing them to relive the key moments in the history of Paris Saint-Germain through its greatest legends. It is an honour to celebrate Javier Pastore and his legacy, through a project that transcends borders and embodies the spirit and greatness of Paris Saint-Germain." Terrifically thematic The Javier Pastore Legendary Room Experience is a perfect fusion of football passion and Novotel's renowned comfort. Upon entering, guests are greeted by the iconic colours of Paris Saint-Germain, enhanced by exclusive themed details. A warm welcome includes specially curated PSG-themed amenities, such as sweet bites, chocolates, and a soft soccer ball, adding a personalised touch to the stay. The room features a pop art-inspired headboard with Pastore's portrait, a vintage framed photograph, and a signed football jersey. A custom-designed carpet, themed cushions and bed linens, and window decal celebrate the magic of Paris. The space also showcases signed memorabilia, such as boots and a ball in a protective display, and a PSG-inspired lamp, bringing the energy of the stadium into the room.
Bonjour, Riyadh! Air France opens direct gateway to Paris from Saudi
In a move that strengthens ties between Saudi Arabia and France, Air France has announced the launch of direct flights between Riyadh and Paris Charles de Gaulle, starting May 20, 2025. The new service aims to enhance connectivity for business and leisure travelers, providing a seamless link between two of the world’s most dynamic capital cities. The airline will begin with three flights per week, before increasing to five weekly services in June to accommodate growing demand. The Riyadh-Paris route will be operated by the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900, a long-haul aircraft designed to offer enhanced passenger experience. With this new service, Air France strengthens its footprint in Saudi Arabia, a country experiencing remarkable growth in both tourism and business sectors. Stefan Gumuseli, General Manager of Air France-KLM India and the Middle East, emphasized the airline’s commitment to the Kingdom. He said: “Saudi Arabia remains a key market for the Air France-KLM Group, and this new service is a testament to our ongoing expansion in the region. Riyadh and Paris are both strategic hubs for business and leisure travel, and we are proud to provide more connectivity between these two cities and our wider global network.” Air France’s expansion in the country also aligns with its broader growth strategy in the region. With this launch, all three airlines under the Air France-KLM Group now operate flights to Saudi Arabia. KLM already connects Amsterdam-Schiphol to Riyadh and Dammam, while Transavia France offers services between Paris-Orly and Jeddah. The growing presence of the airline group in the region reflects the increasing demand for travel between Europe and the Middle East and reinforces France’s longstanding diplomatic, economic, and cultural relationship with Saudi Arabia. Beyond its role in expanding flight options, this new route is expected to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to develop the Kingdom into a leading global tourism and business destination. With Paris being a major gateway to Europe and a hub for connecting flights worldwide, the new Riyadh service will provide seamless connections to more than 190 destinations across Air France’s extensive network. The addition of Riyadh to Air France’s route map underscores the airline’s continued investment in high-growth markets and its confidence in Saudi Arabia’s potential as a key aviation hub. As demand for travel between the Middle East and Europe continues to rise, this new direct service is set to play a crucial role in fostering even closer ties between the two regions. The aircraft features 34 Business Class seats that convert into full-flat beds with direct aisle access, 24 Premium Economy seats offering added comfort, and 266 Economy seats with spacious layouts. Air France is known for its signature hospitality and attention to detail, ensuring that passengers enjoy a premium travel experience from takeoff to landing.
From Paris to Dubai: Mama Shelter brings fresh, creative vibe to the Middle East
Dubai’s ever-expanding hospitality sector has welcomed a bold new entrant—the arrival of Mama Shelter, the French-born lifestyle hotel brand renowned for its vibrant energy, eclectic design, and socially driven experiences. Marking its first foray into the Middle East, the 19th global outpost of Mama Shelter has officially opened its doors in Business Bay, adding a fresh, unconventional twist to Dubai’s increasingly competitive hotel landscape. While Dubai is home to some of the most opulent hotels in the world, with over 820 hospitality establishments and nearly 150,000 hotel rooms, Mama Shelter is taking a different approach. Instead of competing in a “Star Wars battle” for six- and seven-star hotels, the brand aims to redefine hospitality by focusing on creativity, community, and inclusivity. “In Dubai, at a time when all the world’s luxury hotels compete in a ‘Star Wars’ battle for five, six, or even seven stars, with marble and thick carpets, Mama Shelter has simply chosen to settle here, preserving its soul and character,” said Serge Trigano, co-founder of Mama Shelter. “A magical and relaxed place, open to everyone—locals, expatriates, businesswomen and men, and tourists—who will come to enjoy and experience this vibrant city-state.” Founded in 2008 by the Trigano family, the same visionaries behind Club Med, Mama Shelter quickly gained recognition for its rebellious yet accessible luxury, breaking traditional hospitality norms by creating playful, design-forward, and socially engaging spaces. From its original location in Paris to Los Angeles, London, and Rome, the brand has always prioritized affordability without sacrificing personality, and now it brings its unique energy to Dubai. Dubai’s hospitality market is projected to grow to USD 69.57 billion by 2030, with a 5.46% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). With the rise of lifestyle-driven hotels catering to modern travelers, Mama Shelter is stepping in at the perfect time to tap into Dubai’s young, socially connected audience seeking more than just a place to stay. A Hub for Creativity, Work, and Social Connection Located in the heart of Business Bay, Mama Shelter Dubai offers 197 design-forward rooms, each with premium bedding, organic amenities, and complimentary films. The hotel features CineMama, an open-air cinema, and four outdoor pools, blending relaxation with entertainment. For professionals and creatives, Mama Shelter provides five ateliers—coworking and event spaces designed to foster collaboration and innovation. “Mama Shelter is not just a hotel; it’s a movement,” said Cédric Gobilliard, COO of Mama Shelter. “Dubai is a city of bold vision and cultural diversity, a perfect match for Mama Shelter’s ethos of equality, freedom, and social harmony. This space is designed to inspire, connect, and celebrate people from all walks of life.” A Strategic Move for Khamas Hospitality The arrival of Mama Shelter Dubai is a significant milestone for Khamas Hospitality, which has been actively expanding its portfolio with innovative, forward-thinking brands. “It brings us immense pride to unveil the first flagship Mama Shelter in the Middle East,” said Pawan Kachroo, Managing Director at Khamas Hospitality. “This marks a monumental milestone for us, adding another evolutionary brand to our portfolio. Our vision, aligned with Dubai’s commitment to vibrancy, innovation, and elegance, has created this modern and unconventional hospitality experience.” As Dubai continues to diversify its tourism offerings, lifestyle-driven hospitality brands like Mama Shelter are reshaping the city’s hotel scene. With its emphasis on affordable luxury, creative energy, and social connection, Mama Shelter Dubai offers a refreshing contrast to the city’s high-end hotels, proving that hospitality isn’t just about five-star amenities—it’s about experience, engagement, and a sense of belonging.
Emirates teams up with the NBA to lead youth clinic in Paris
Emirates, the Official Airline Partner of the NBA, offered youth in Paris last week an unforgettable experience with NBA Legend Joakim Noah. Showing 15 kids from a local organisation, Sport dans la Ville, in Paris the fundamentals of the game, Noah gave up-close and personal lessons around passing, shooting, rebounding and offered positive reinforcement and encouragement throughout the session. Sport dans la Ville is dedicated to the social and professional integration of youth from disadvantaged neighbourhoods through sports. The kids also had the opportunity to interact with Jr. NBA coaches, participate in friendly games and take home keepsake photos at the end of the session. As the Official Airline Partner and Title Partner of the Emirates NBA Cup, the airline connects fans with basketball through community programs and unique experiences. From supporting youth basketball clinics to creating memorable moments at NBA events, the partnership reflects Emirates’ commitment to bringing people together through sport. The airline also welcomed NBA Legend Tony Parker earlier this week to its newly opened Travel Store in Paris, offering guests a chance to meet the player and take home signed merchandise. The NBA Paris Games 2025 presented by Tissot took place from 23 to 25 January. Basketball fans enjoyed an immersive experience at the NBA House located in Carreau du Temple, with live entertainment, photo opportunities, merchandise giveaways, and a dedicated playground area for fans to interact with players. Fans also had the exciting opportunity to take part in the 'Around the World Challenge’ at the Emirates booth, for a chance to win an authentic Emirates Wilson ball. Emirates has been operating to France for more than 30 years. The airline currently serves Paris with 21 weekly flights, including 3 daily A380 flights; a daily A380 service to Nice; and a daily flight to Lyon utilising its Boeing 777 aircraft (upgraded to a daily A350 service starting from June 2025).
Celebrating a Century of French Elegance at Le Bristol Paris
For a century, Le Bristol Paris has been the beating heart of a city synonymous with audacity and elegance. Born in 1925, amidst the vibrancy of the Roaring Twenties and the Art Deco movement, Le Bristol Paris has become the epitome of Parisian sophistication. As one of the last family-owned grand hotels in the world, it carries forward a rich legacy. Initially founded by the Jammet family, the hotel was later entrusted to the German Oetker family, who have lovingly upheld its celebrated traditions and preserved its timeless allure. Even a hundred years later, as the 2024 Olympic Games showcased the indomitable essence of the City of Light to the world, the most Parisian of palaces embodies celebration on a daily basis. As it marks its centenary, Le Bristol Paris wishes to extend the festivities for the next hundred years. By "festivities," one means bespoke hospitality, thoughtful gestures, attentive listening, a touch of humor, ultimate comfort, exquisite cuisine, a cozy ambiance, and a culture of the unexpected. For paying the utmost attention to the smallest details with the intent to surprise is the hallmark of a successful celebration. This art of perpetual motion is mastered by the 650 team members of this iconic venue on Rue du Faubourg SaintHonoré—an art commonly known as "the French art of living." This Bristolian classicism remains boldly true to itself in an era of complete transformation. Thus, Le Bristol Paris celebrates its centenary with the understated elegance that defines it. Throughout 2025, surprises will punctuate the year, allowing the palace’s guests to experience moments of wonder during their stay in this historic haven, the home of savoir faire. Dressed for the Occasion Before any worthy celebration, both guests and hosts prepare their attire. Le Bristol Paris dons its finery, unveiling a new visual identity to mark its centennial on even the smallest everyday objects. Ordinary items like matchboxes, pens, and letterhead paper become collectible treasures. A subtle touch of fragrance enhances the experience. For the first time in its history, the master candle maker Cire Trudon has created a custom fragrance for a hotel. In partnership with Le Bristol Paris, a unique scent has been created that embodies the palace’s essence. Notes of ground wheat mingle with freshly cut grass and crisp linens, evoking the palace’s signature elements: the flour mill, the garden, and, of course, its rooms and suites. Composed of white musk, vetiver, and cedar, this fragrance— available as a candle and a room spray—will permeate the hotel throughout the 365 days of 2025. To enrich the festive atmosphere, music plays a vital role. A vinyl record, bearing Le Bristol Paris’s colors, captures a jazz ambiance that traces the last ten decades of music. These ten tracks, emblematic of their eras, remind us that each decade was "roaring" in its own way. Joséphine Baker wasn’t the only one who embraced celebration within these storied walls. Count de Castellane, the hotel’s first owner, when Le Bristol Paris was a private residence, was famed for hosting the most splendid Parisian fêtes at the end of the 19th century. This history will be further explored in the book "Ode to an Art of Living," published by Flammarion for the September literary season. This work recounts the DNA of Le Bristol Paris: the intimate stories that have made this palace the Grande Dame it is today. Vibrant Cuisine These anecdotes are sure to spark conversations over dinner at Epicure, the haute cuisine restaurant celebrating the hotel’s centenary under the leadership of Chef Arnaud Faye. His signature vibrant cuisine, where plant-based elements and citrus notes create a fresh and spirited take on a centennial celebration, is at the heart of the menu. This identity will shine in November during a gastronomic week in Japan, where Chef Faye will bring his artistry to L’Osier in Tokyo. Back in Paris, he will also host a grand gala dinner and the traditional garden party—which, true to Le Bristol Paris, will be anything but ordinary. These events, still under wraps, are dedicated to loyal patrons as a heartfelt thank-you to those who have made Le Bristol Paris a part of their lives for generations. « To celebrate our 100th anniversary, the cuisine of Le Bristol Paris brings together tradition and modernity in a beautiful harmony of flavors. We draw on the great classics that have shaped our history, with a contemporary twist and always a commitment to excellence. Each dish is a surprise, a tribute to our culinary art, where every bite reflects a century of passion, expertise, and boldness. » — Chef Arnaud Faye, Executive Chef of Le Bristol Paris Palace Culture at its Peak The highlight of Le Bristol Paris’s centenary celebration? The guestroom experience. Two of its most iconic suites have been magnificently renovated under the direction of Elvira and Narcisa Oetker. The Signature Honeymoon Suite, nestled under the rooftops with a view of the Eiffel Tower, features a pristine contemporary design. A fresco by Dimitri Rybaltchenko, inspired by the myth of Eros and Psyche, elevates this romantic haven to new heights. Meanwhile, the Imperial Suite’s redesign pays homage to the American painter George Condo, a frequent guest who has transformed the suite into his atelier. For the first time, Condo has collaborated on the decoration of a hotel suite, showcasing carefully selected and custom-made artworks. The space has been reimagined as a collector’s apartment, where arresting colors and intimate portraits create an atmosphere of refined artistry. The suite harmonizes green tones with the hotel’s private garden, blending heritage craftsmanship with contemporary design to embody the pinnacle of architecture decorative arts. Casual Way of Life Even amidst the grandeur, life in these exceptional suites—like all rooms at the palace—flows with refined ease. Guests can relax on plush sofas dressed in the special 100th-anniversary capsule collection by Le Bristol Paris x Sporty & Rich or stroll down Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré wearing the Bristol Society cap, part of the hotel’s coverable first ready-to-wear collection. For a truly unique experience, guests can enjoy an evening of family fun with Le Bristol Paris' very own edition of Cluedo, the first-ever hotel version of the iconic board game. Set in the 1930s, this version replaces murder with a whimsical cat hunt. Socrate, the hotel’s resident beloved Birman mascot, has disappeared! Investigators must use clever bait to lure him back, exploring key locations like the Castellane salon, Epicure’s kitchen, and the gourmet shop. This playful game promises laughter and connection—the perfect recipe for extraordinary daily life, championed by Le Bristol Paris.
Qatar Airways extends principal partnership with Paris Saint-Germain until 2028
Qatar Airways announces the extension of its partnership with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) until 2028, reaffirming its commitment to one of the most iconic football clubs in the world, ushering in a new era of collaboration. This renewal strengthens the long-standing relationship between Qatar Airways and PSG, built on shared values of excellence, ambition, and innovation. The announcement was made a few days following The Parisian’s victory over Manchester City F.C at the Parc des Princes Stadium in the UEFA Champions League – Europe’s premier football tournament where Qatar Airways also holds a strong presence as ‘Official Airline Partner’. Further cementing their alliance, the partnership will extend across the Qatar Airways Group, involving Qatar Duty Free and Hamad International Airport to create a comprehensive and engaging partnership ecosystem. The Qatar Airways logo will continue to feature on the “rouge & bleu” shirt, as well as all training apparel and warm-up jerseys at all domestic and international tournaments, including Ligue 1, and UEFA Competitions. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said: “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Paris Saint-Germain, a club that embodies the spirit of excellence and innovation. This collaboration is a testament to our shared vision of connecting and inspiring people around the world. Together, we will continue to redefine the boundaries of what is possible, both on the pitch and in the skies.” Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, President of Paris Saint-Germain said: “We are proud to extend our partnership with Qatar Airways, the world’s leading airline, through 2028. This collaboration, founded on excellence, creativity, and innovation, was exemplified by the groundbreaking in-flight press conference aboard a Qatar Airways flight to kick off 2025. Together, we will continue to set new benchmarks and create history in the years ahead. Paris Saint-Germain is playing an important role in Qatar Airways’ extensive sponsorship portfolio and is connecting and engaging its brand with the club’s hundreds of millions of fans world-wide, whilst providing unique experiences to reward its Privilege Club members – which is the Official Frequent Flyer Programme of Paris Saint-Germain. Additionally, Qatar Airways Holidays will continue to offer official Paris Saint-Germain fan travel packages, bringing football enthusiasts from around the world to Paris, to enjoy the city and see some of the best players in football. As an industry leader in advanced technology, Qatar Airways offers passengers complimentary gate-to-gate Wi-Fi, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout their journey. This unique partnership with Starlink also enables Paris Saint-Germain teams to stay connected throughout their travels with its global fanbase in real-time. This technology was in use on 2 January when the team hosted a first ever virtual press conference onboard their Qatar Airways flight 35,000 feet up in the skies, prior to securing the French Cup against Monaco – a special cup final that was staged in Doha. The renewed partnership underscores a shared commitment to elevating fan engagement and delivering exceptional brand experiences. It introduces a range of exciting initiatives designed to bring fans and Privilege Club members closer to the action. These include innovative collaborations that seamlessly blend Paris Saint-Germain’s elegance with Qatar Airways’ world-class hospitality, exclusive offerings within the Club’s ecosystem, and unique lifestyle experiences that celebrate the synergy between the two iconic brands. The extended partnership will continue to focus on creating global campaigns, and opportunities to engage with PSG supporters worldwide. With Qatar Airways’ award-winning service and PSG’s growing influence on the world stage, this collaboration will reach new heights in the coming years. This partnership marks another milestone in Qatar Airways’ portfolio of high-profile global sports partnerships, including the likes of FIFA, Formula 1®, UEFA, MotoGP, AFC, FC Internazionale Milano, Tennis Legend – Novak Djokovic, The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Qatar Airways Premier Padel Tour, the IRONMAN Triathlon Series, the United Rugby Championship (URC) and European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR), French Rugby Team – Section Paloise, The British and Irish Lions Tour of Australia 2025, The Brooklyn Nets NBA Team, and multiple other disciplines including Australian football, equestrian, kitesurfing, motor racing, squash, and tennis.
Air France launches new direct Manila-Paris route
Air France formally launched a new thrice-weekly direct service between Manila and Paris last 8th December. This is the first time that Air France has had a direct route to the Philippine capital in two decades. To launch the revived route, Philippine transportation secretary Jaime J Bautista, tourism secretary Christina Frasco joined French ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel and Air France-KLM general manager for Southeast Asia and Oceania Femke Kroese at a ribbon-cutting ceremony to send off the first flight. Travellers arriving and departing on the new route were greeted at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport with floral garlands whilst being serenaded with traditional Filipino festival music. Kroese said of the airline’s return into Philippine airspace: “We are extremely proud of this new Air France service operating non-stop between Manila and Paris, three times weekly. Together with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, the Air France-KLM group is the only European carrier with a daily service between Manila, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, and Amsterdam-Schiphol.”
The 2nd Saudi-French Ministerial Committee for AlUla was held in Paris
The ministerial committee responsible for overseeing and monitoring the intergovernmental agreement signed on 10 April 2018, on cultural, environmental, tourism, human and economic development, and the enhancement of the heritage of AlUla County in Saudi Arabia, met for the second time in Paris, France. Chaired by Prince Badr bin Abdullah bim Farhan Al Saud, the Saudi Minister of Culture and Governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla and France’s Jean-Noel Barrot, the Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, the committee meeting brought together His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Investment, Eng. Khalid Al-Falih, in addition to Abeer AlAkel, Acting CEO of the Royal Commission for AlUla. The committee meeting was also attended by France’s Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, the French Minister of Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty HE Antoine Armand, and Jean-Yves Le Drian, Chairman of the French Agency for the Development of AlUla (AfAlUla). During this second meeting of the joint committee, members praised the establishment of Villa Hegra as a non-profit Saudi Foundation, results of its 2023-24 pre-opening programming. The Villa Hegra cultural centre at AlUla was enshrined in an agreement signed during the visit of President Emmanuel Macron to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 4 December 2021. The Saudi-French Committee also welcomed the partnership between RCU and Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne announced earlier this year, which opened a new chapter in the long-standing and mutually beneficial collaborations with leading French institutions. As well as establishing new integrated systems of research, training, information sharing and documentation, which will contribute to the documentation of AlUla’s 200,000 years of human history and north-west Arabia’s history in one of the world’s largest archaeological reference libraries, the agreement will also open fresh avenues of development in areas related to scientific study, tourism, archaeology, history, and art to support AlUla’s regeneration into a global hub for collaboration, learning, culture, art, and community. This includes the establishment of the Jaussen & Savignac Archaeological Research Centre with twin locations in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, and Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, France, serving as a hub for the unique comprehensive research, publication, and dissemination of scholarly work related to north-west Saudi Arabia, as well as an endowed Jaussen & Savignac Chair which will be established to promote academic excellence and archaeological research in the Kingdom's north-west. The agreement also spans a Jaussen & Savignac Chair Master Programme in the fields of Archaeology and Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage, as well as annual training workshops and archaeological field schools situated in AlUla. Saudi Arabia and France recently celebrated more than 20 years of archaeological cooperation, dating to 2002 at Hegra, and French experts continue to be part of AlUla's archaeological journey. In 2019, an exhibition titled "AlUla: Wonder of Arabia" was held at the Arab World Institute in the French capital, Paris, showcasing the diversity and beauty of AlUla’s natural and cultural heritage, while in 2023, the Lihyanite King statue, the ‘Monumental Statue’, was loaned to the Louvre Museum highlighting the active cultural bridges between AlUla, Saudi Arabia and France. Most recently, the Khaybar Longue Durée Archaeological Project, led by Dr. Guillaume Charloux, researcher at the French National Centre for Scientific Research, and Dr. Munirah AlMushawh, archaeological survey manager at RCU, unveiled new archaeological research, revealing an exceptional Bronze Age town in the Khaybar oasis. The discovery confirmed a major transition from mobile, nomadic life to settled, town life in the second half of the third millennium BCE, challenging previous notions surrounding northwestern Arabia urban life during the early and middle Bronze Age. The committee also reaffirmed the importance of broader cross-sector cooperation between Saudi Arabia and France, pointing to ongoing efforts in AlUla across a number of sectors. AlUla has welcomed partnerships with over 80 French companies across construction, infrastructure, public services, and more including specialists from Alstom for the experiential tram design, FERRANDI Paris for co-creation of knowledge exchange and upskilling to unlock opportunities for the community, and the Accor group for its hospitality projects. Construction is also underway on the Sharaan Resort and International Summit Centre, designed by world renowned French architect Jean Nouvel. Built directly into the mountains of Sharaan Nature Reserve, construction is being managed by French engineering group Bouygues Construction through a joint venture with Almabani, a leading Saudi engineering firm. In line with AlUla’s transition into a new phase of its regeneration and development, the committee encouraged the participation of additional French institutions, as it seeks to expand mutual learning and growth, and define AlUla’s future as a center for culture, innovation, and shared global heritage.
Beyond Covid-19: Global Tourism’s New Normal
The Hong Kong Tourism Board is proud to present the world's very first industry forum, joined by top leaders, to discuss new trends on tourism from Hong Kong to Mainland and from Asia to the world in the post-COVID era.
Direct Booking Summit Bangkok 17 to 18 November 2021
The Direct Booking Summit unites hundreds of hoteliers together - from savvy independents to international chains - to strategize, network and drive the Direct Booking Movement forward.
Win the perfect honeymoon with Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel
“There is only one happiness in this life, to love and be loved,” as George Sand once said. A powerful and insightful sentiment from the famous French novelist, and a notion which Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers has taken to heart with the launch of The Journey of Love 2018 – a lucky draw campaign aimed solely at brides and grooms planning to celebrate their nuptials in 2018.