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      Italy –  what to look forward to this Spring 2024

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      Rome will be celebrating its legendary birthday on the 21st of April. According to legend, Rome was founded on April 21, 753 BCE. So, on this date, there is a holiday to celebrate, the Natale di Roma.Pesaro as The Italian Capital of Culture 2024 in the Marche region has been announced as the Italian capital of culture for 2024.
      The Leaning Tower of Pisa commemorates its 850th anniversary, highlighting its architectural significance and ongoing celebrations showcasing its history through various mediums. The city has arranged a programme that will last until 9th August 2024, which includes an
      exhibition featuring the paintings, engravings, photographs and films that have immortalised the work over the years – ‘The Many Lives of the Pisa Bell Tower’.

      Looking ahead, the 2025 Vatican Jubilee anticipates a massive influx of visitors to Rome for a year-long celebration of grace, marked by significant rituals including the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica.ADVERTISEMENT
      In the realm of sports, Milano Cortina prepares to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, with Cortina as the primary venue and Milan’s San Siro Stadium hosting the opening ceremony. This event marks a historic moment as the games return to Cortina after 70 years, promising an unforgettable spectacle for athletes and spectators alike.

      FOOD & DRINK
      Primavera del Prosecco in Treviso and Surrounding Areas – 16th March – 9th June
      Embark on a journey through the Prosecco wine region, where you will discover the secrets behind Italy’s beloved sparkling wine. Indulge in special packages offering a blend of gastronomy and culture.
      Vinitaly in Verona, Veneto – 14th– 17th April
      Immerse yourself in the world of Italian wines at Vinitaly, the largest wine show globally. Explore exquisite wines, witness prestigious competitions and embrace the essence of Italian viticulture.
      Fritto Misto All’Italiana in Ascoli Piceno, Le Marche – 22nd April – 1st May
      Delight your taste buds with an array of fried delights at Fritto Misto, the event that celebrates the great Italian fried foods and has characterised the bridge between Liberation Day and Workers’ Day for the past 19 years. From Sicilian arancini to Neapolitan cannoli, savour the authentic flavours of Italy.
      Sagra del Pesce in Liguria –12th May
      Experience the vibrant tradition of the Sagra del Pesce in Camogli, Liguria, where the picturesque port square transforms into a culinary spectacle. Dating back to 1952 and intertwined with the ancient festival of San Fortunato, this celebration honours the patron saint of fishermen. Witness the spectacle of the world’s largest frying pan sizzling with freshly caught fish, while the community gathers for bonfires and artistic competitions between the districts of Porto and Pinetto.
      Focaccia Festival of Recco in Genoa – 26th of May
      Join the celebration of the iconic gastronomic symbol of Recco at the Focaccia Festival. Established in 1955 and organised by the Consorzio della Focaccia di Recco col Formaggio and the Municipality of Recco since 2006, this event pays homage to the beloved focaccia. Experience the culinary tradition with the free distribution of both classic and onion-flavoured focaccia.
      SPORTING EVENTS
      Rome Marathon – 17th March
      ‘Run Rome the Marathon’ is a journey in the eternal city that will make participants fall in love with running and the marathon, forever. Share the wonders of the route with hundreds of fellow runners: starting from Fori Imperiali, passing in front of the Vittoriano, in Piazza Venezia, you will gaze at Circo Massimo, feel the breeze of Lungotevere and run past places such as Castel Sant’Angelo, Viale Della Conciliazione and St. Peter’s Basilica.
      Giro d’Italia (Tour of Italy) – 4th – 26th May
      The Giro d’Italia is an annual multiple-stage bicycle race primarily held in Italy, while also passing through, other countries. The Giro is one of professional cycling’s three-week-long Grand Tours, and after the Tour de France is the second most important stage race in the world.
      CULTURE
      Venice Biennale – 20th April – 24th November
      A major international art exhibition featuring contemporary art, architecture and film in Venice. Explore cutting-edge artistic expressions from around the world amidst the timeless charm of Venice’s historic landmarks.

      The First Edition of Exposed: Torino Photo Festival in Turin – 2nd May – 2nd June
      From May until June, the spotlight will be on the new International Festival of Photography of the city of Turin. Under the Artistic Direction of Menno Liauw and Salvatore Vitale the exhibition will be entitled – New Landscapes – Nuovi Paesaggi. It will consist of 15 temporary exhibitions in 15 venues and a single programme of events dedicated to photography.
      Festa Della Sensa in Venice – 12th May
      A traditional event that celebrates the city’s relationship with the sea, including a boat parade and the “Wedding of the Sea” ceremony. Witness centuries-old maritime customs and festivities along the stunning canals of Venice.

      Festa Di San Giovanni (Feast Of St. John) in Florence – 24th June

      A celebration of St. John the Baptist’s feast day, featuring fireworks and historic pageants. Join in the revelry as Florence comes alive with colourful processions, music and fireworks to honour the city’s patron saint.
      MUSIC

      Verona Opera Festival in Verona – 8th June – 7th September
      Held in the ancient Roman arena in Verona, this festival features open-air opera performances. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of classical music under the stars in one of Italy’s most iconic settings.

      Umbria Jazz Festival in Umbria –  12th – 21st July
      A world-renowned jazz festival held in Perugia, Umbria, with performances by international and local artists.

      NEW FLIGHTS
      Starting from 31st March, British Airways is increasing the frequency of its flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Palermo (PMO) to five flights per week, providing travellers with more options to explore the beautiful Sicilian city. This increased schedule will run until 26th October, allowing passengers ample opportunities to experience the rich culture and history of Palermo.
      British Airways is also introducing a new route from London Gatwick (LGW) to Catania, offering two flights per day every Friday. Commencing on 31st March and concluding on 26th October, this expanded schedule will cater to the growing demand for travel to Catania. 

      NEW HOTELS
      MONTANA LODGE AND SPA (5*), La Thuile in Aosta Valley
      In a harmonious balance of modern design and natural scenery, the rooms at the Montana Lodge & Spa are perfectly suited to the needs of every family, providing a sense of warmth and hospitality.
      GRAND HOTEL COURMANYEUR MONT BLANC (5*)  ,Aosta Valley
      Ideal for both the winter and summer seasons, Grand Hotel Courmanyeur offers its guests numerous services and exclusive spaces, for an unforgettable holiday.
      CITIZEN M ISOLA TIBERINA (4*), Rome
      Experience the perfect blend of art, comfort and Italian charm at Citizen M hotel in Rome’s historic Jewish Quarter, where dreamy beds, a lively living room and a rooftop bar overlooking ancient ruins await.
      FONTANA 16 ROOMS, Milan
      Located in the heart of Milan, Fontana 16 Rooms offers a unique stay experience, combining the peace of a historic street with the convenience of a central location.
      LE CATTEDRALI (5*) , Monferrato (Piedmont) 
      Discover the beauty and rich heritage of the Monferrato region at Le Cattedrali relais, nestled in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its fine truffles, wines, and hazelnuts, where ancient castles, Romanesque churches invite adventurers to explore the unique landscape.
      PALAZZO DEI FIORI  BY ROOM MATE (4*), Venice
      Experience the timeless charm of Venice at Palazzo Dei Fiori, a historic 19th-century gem designed by architect Teresa Sapey, perfectly situated in the heart of the city near St. Mark’s Square.
      SINGER PALACE HOTEL (5*), Rome
      Originally founded in 1850 by Mr. Singer, the inventor of the sewing machine, Singer Palace has been transformed into a chic boutique hotel by the Visocchi family in 2018. Centrally located in Rome, within walking distance of major historical sights and shopping areas, the hotel offers 30 beautifully appointed rooms, including suites and connecting solutions, blending historic charm with contemporary elegance.

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      Jumeirah Group’s CEO Katerina Giannouka steps down after 15 months

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      Cloudbeds and IDeaS Forge Innovative Partnership

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      Cloudbeds, a leading provider of hospitality management software, and IDeaS, the world’s leading provider of hospitality revenue management software and services, today announced a strategic technology partnership that brings together the expertise of two industry powerhouses to deliver cutting-edge revenue solutions for accommodations providers worldwide.The collaboration will combine IDeaS’ latest revenue management solution with Cloudbeds’ innovative hospitality management platform. The result will deliver a simple, yet powerful solution to enable thousands of independent hotel operators worldwide to reap the revenue benefits of automated dynamic pricing in an increasingly complex and competitive market.
      The revenue management solution, already used in over 10,000 hotels worldwide, is expected to be available to Cloudbeds clients in the Summer of 2024.
      Key benefits of the partnership:
      Integrated technology: This partnership seamlessly connects Cloudbeds’ award-winning property management system with IDeaS’ industry leading revenue management capabilities. Operators will be able to quickly and easily enhance their operational efficiency, pricing accuracy, and revenue generation capabilities.
      Leveling the playing field: The collaboration between IDeaS and Cloudbeds is poised to reshape the hospitality industry and democratize revenue management by offering a unified solution that opens the door to revenue management excellence and enhances overall operational efficiency for independent hotels worldwide.ADVERTISEMENTDesigned for busy operators: The integration will empower hoteliers with automated tools that monitor and capitalize on market fluctuations to optimally price rooms via an easy-to-use, application purpose-built for busy hoteliers. It will allow operators to deliver personalized and memorable guest experiences by aligning pricing strategies with operational excellence.
      Adam Harris, CEO and co-founder of Cloudbeds: “With a partnership between IDeaS and Cloudbeds, we’re creating something entirely new and innovative for our industry. Hoteliers will benefit from our comprehensive solution that addresses their most pressing challenges and rewrite the rules for what’s possible in hospitality.”
      Sanjay Nagalia, co-founder, COO & CTO of IDeaS Revenue Solutions: “We are excited to embark on this strategic journey with Cloudbeds. For many independent hoteliers, revenue management capabilities were believed to be out of reach. By combining our strengths, we’re poised to empower these hotels with the tools they need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.”

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      Marriott International Announces Robust Growth Across the Caribbean and Latin America in 2023

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      Jumeirah Group’s CEO Katerina Giannouka steps down after 15 months More

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      Design Hotels™ Partners with Weeva to Drive Sustainable Practices in Independent Hospitality

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      Digital sustainability management solution, Weeva, establishes conscious collaboration with forward-thinking travel brand Design Hotels to help its portfolio of independent hotels build data-led sustainability initiatives.
      Weeva’s innovative, integrated platform enables hotels to manage their sustainability in one digital system. By tracking, informing decisions and reporting on their commercial viability and environmental and social impact, these businesses can experience the myriad of benefits that come with running a sustainable operation.
      Designed by sustainable tourism experts, Weeva champions continuous improvement actions, backed by consistent data management, to boost efficiency, reduce wastage and, ultimately, support profitability and business resilience within the industry.
      Renowned for establishing partnerships that keep its member hotels ahead of the curve, Design Hotels™ is currently hosting an ongoing series of online workshops and virtual roundtables to connect its members with partners, industry experts, and each other around actionable insights and forward-thinking ideas and practices.
      The first of these conversations, hosted by Elin Kann, Director Sustainability & Culture at Design Hotels™, and moderated by Dr Andrea Ferry, Head of Sustainability at Weeva, focussed on the importance of developing an internal culture of sustainability. A key takeaway was:ADVERTISEMENT“If ‘vision’ is where you are going, ‘culture’ makes sure you can get there.”
      Weeva’s reporting tools can generate tailored Impact Reports for hotels to share with their guests, tour operators and other suppliers. Reports show metrics such as the carbon footprint per bed night or an overall view of a property’s impact. It’s not about being perfect, but rather quantifying goals and showing improvement. Using a system like Weeva helps streamline internal management, sharing the load between departments, from HR employee wellness surveys for to showcasing your community projects. It is also an invaluable data aggregator for those wishing to gain certifications.
      Julie Cheetham, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Weeva commented:
      “We’re so excited to onboard many of the Design Hotels member hotels into our system in 2024, giving them access to all our best-practice educational guides, suggested improvements and easy-to-understand tools and dashboards that track results in real-time.  The travel industry has long needed affordable, accessible sustainability technology to measure and improve operations for the benefit of profit, people and the planet – so it is wonderful to see our software being adopted by hotels of this calibre globally.”
      Stijn Oyen, Managing Director of Design Hotels™, said:
      “We are delighted to collaborate with Weeva to share the exemplary sustainability efforts and successes of our member hotels in transparent, measurable ways.  By utilizing Weeva’s data-driven, science-backed approach, our aim is to learn more about the impact our hotels have on the planet, and apply these insights to develop new, meaningful initiatives that guide them towards a more conscious, sustainable future.”

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      Largest startup gathering in the Middle East, Web Summit Qatar, welcomes 15,453 to Doha

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      Largest startup gathering in the Middle East, Web Summit Qatar, welcomes 15,453 to Doha

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      Web Summit, the world’s largest technology conference, today announced that the inaugural edition of its Middle Eastern event, Web Summit Qatar, is hosting 15,453 attendees from 118 countries.
      Web Summit CEO Katherine Maher took to the stage on Opening Night, saying: “Over the last few years, we noticed a growing presence from the Middle East at our events. Dynamic founders, investors and entrepreneurs from the region were contributing to our events in such a meaningful way, we knew that it was time for us to bring an event here. Web Summit Qatar represents a brand new opportunity to connect a new generation of entrepreneurs, investors and changemakers.”Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office and Chairman of the Web Summit Qatar 2024 Organising Committee, said: “Hosting Web Summit Qatar signifies a milestone in our nation’s ongoing journey to forge the future, showcasing Qatar’s growing status as a place where people, ideas and inspiration come together to envision the next digital revolution. The tremendous turnout in attendees and ticket purchases demonstrates the high demand for such events in the region, as well as Qatar’s potential as a hub for SMEs and innovators. More so, on its very first day, we set several new records in Web Summit history, including the biggest startup participation in a first-year edition, thelargest presence of startups from Africa, and more. With such a strong start, Web Summit Qatar is poised to be the next spot for technological leaps to take place.”
      15,453 attendees from 118 countries
      Web Summit Qatar has gathered 15,453 attendees at the sold-out event in the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), connecting a new generation of founders, investors, journalists and leaders in Doha.Attendees from 118 countries across the globe arrived in Qatar for the first Web Summit event held in the Middle East – an event that will serve as a pivotal force for innovation in the region, enabling the people who are reshaping the world to connect.The largest gathering of startups in the Middle East 1,043 startups from 81 countries were selected – out of nearly ten thousand applicants – to showcase their vision to attendees on the event floor. 10 percent of attending startups come from Qatar, while 20 percent come from Africa and 50 percent from the wider MENA region. 10 percent of startups have joined the event through Web Summit Qatar’s Impact programme, which focuses on tech for good.
      358 startups will take part in 42 Mentor Hours sessions during the event, learning from and connecting with leading entrepreneurs in the industry. Participating startups will also have the opportunity to take part in Web Summit Qatar’s PITCH competition, powered by Jusour, which brings together the world’s leading early-stage startups to go head-to-head on stage in front of globally-renowned investors.ADVERTISEMENT401 investors from 46 countries and some of the largest funds in the world will attend the event to explore investment opportunities in one of the fastest-growing markets in the world, and to meet the next generation of startups. Investors at the event include Peak XV managing director GV Ravishankar, Global Ventures founder Noor Sweid, 500 Global’s Christine Tsai and Khailee Ng, and Invest Qatar’s Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani.
      380 speakers will speak during the event, and 896 members of the media will attend.Top speakers at the event include His Excellency Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Emmy-winning South African comedian Trevor Noah, Bollywood actress and singer Nora Fatehi, WPP CEO Mark Read, Whoop founder and CEO Will Ahmed, Groq CEO Jonathan Ross, astronaut and Deep Space Initiative founder Sara Sabry, Replit co-founder and CEO Amjad Masad, Builder.ai founder and chief wizard Sachin DevDuggal, soccer legends Patrice Evra, John Obi Mikel and Gilberto Silva, and Tabby co-founder and CEO Hosam Arab.
      148 partners will exhibit on the event floor at Web Summit Qatar to explore business opportunities in the region, and to meet the up-and-coming companies and technologies of tomorrow.Big tech partners – including Microsoft, Snap, TikTok, Meta, Qatar Investment Authority, Deloitte and Palo Alto Networks – will be exhibiting on the sold-out event floor. Trade delegations from countries including Canada, Türkiye, Bahrain, Pakistan, Nigeria and Kenya will be attending Web Summit Qatar to explore business opportunities in the Middle East.Also taking part in the event are six community partners – groups that support and prioritise underrepresented people across the technology industry.
      Women in tech37 percent of attendees at the event are women, and 30 percent of speakers are women. One in three startups participating in the startup programme has a woman on the founding team. The Women in Tech Lounge will welcome organisations including Women of Qatar and Women Techmakers, along with thousands of women in tech attendees from all over the world.
      Qatar announces US$1bn investment in international and regional VC fundsDuring his opening remarks at Web Summit Qatar 2024, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the State of Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced Qatar’s first-ever venture capital Fund of Funds programme, which will invest US$1 billion in international and regional venture capital funds. Led by the Qatar Investment Authority, the initiative aims to foster innovation and boost the tech ecosystem in the country.In addition, HE emphasised that as technological innovations rapidly advance, it is a collective duty to ensure this progress serves the greater good by balancing innovation with ethical principles, guiding progress with moral wisdom for the benefit of all.
      Pics from day two follow :

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      WTTC Celebrates Saudi Arabia’s Milestone Surpassing 100 Million Tourists More

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      WTTC Celebrates Saudi Arabia’s Milestone Surpassing 100 Million Tourists

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      The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) congratulates Saudi Arabia’s achievement of welcoming over 100 million tourists, a testament to the Kingdom’s strategic reforms, visionary investments, and resilience in the face of global challenges. This milestone exemplifies the success of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to transform its Travel & Tourism sector into a key driver of economic diversification and growth.
      The introduction of tourist visas in 2019 and the strategic formation of the Ministry of Tourism in 2020 have been pivotal in aligning the Travel & Tourism sector with the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.
      The National Tourism Strategy and subsequent regulations introduced in 2022 to enhance service quality and development have further propelled the sector forward, setting a strong foundation for sustainable growth and innovation.
      Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience, achieving a 156% increase in international tourist arrivals in 2023 compared to 2019.
      This recovery highlights the effectiveness of the Kingdom’s strategic initiatives, including the streamlined E-visa program and significant investments in tourism infrastructure, which have collectively enhanced the country’s appeal as a premier global tourism destination.ADVERTISEMENTThe achievement of attracting over 100 million tourists underscores the success of Saudi Arabia’s proactive strategy and reform-driven approach to cultivating a vibrant tourism ecosystem.
      This milestone not only showcases the sector’s appeal but also Saudi Arabia’s strategic foresight and adaptability, achieving a significant goal seven years ahead of schedule.
      Saudi Arabia strategic reforms have created a supportive and flexible regulatory environment that encourages investment and innovation.
      Key among these reforms is the restructuring of tourism license fees, tailored to meet specific needs and operations of investors. The Kingdom has also taken significant steps to alleviate the financial burden on the Travel & Tourism sector by reducing annual government fees by almost 22%, with a commitment to further reductions of up to 70%.
      These initiatives are integral to Saudi Arabia’s broader economic diversification strategy and its aim to position tourism as a leading employment sector by 2030.
      As Saudi Arabia continues its path of expansion and strategic reforms within the Travel & Tourism sector, WTTC recognises the Kingdom’s significant achievements and is committed to supporting its ongoing ambitions.
      The global tourism body looks forward to Saudi Arabia’s continued growth and success in establishing itself as a global tourism powerhouse, contributing to the sector’s global recovery and prosperity.

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      WORLD’S FIRST ABUSE-FREE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM LAUNCHES IN THE UAE, PIONEERED BY FOOTBALL ICONS

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      Yesterday, at WebSummit Qatar, marked a groundbreaking moment as Striver, the world’s first truly abuse-free social media platform, is set to launch in the United Arab Emirates. Created by footballers for fans, Striver aims to redefine the social media landscape with a positive and inclusive digital space.
      Under the visionary leadership of CEO Tim Chase, Striver proudly announces its official entry into the UAE market. With a commitment to fostering a safe and respectful online environment, Striver stands as a beacon against online abuse, setting a new standard for social media platforms worldwide.Notably, Striver is honoured to have esteemed football legends Gilberto Silva and Roberto Carlos as Co-founders with Tim. Their passion for the beautiful game and dedication to fostering a positive community led them to building Striver’s mission.CEO Tim Chase expresses his enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce Striver to the dynamic landscape of the UAE. Our abuse-free platform aims to provide football enthusiasts with a space to connect, share, and celebrate the sport we all love.”Striver’s entrance into the UAE is strategically timed, coinciding with the nation’s burgeoning interest in football. With Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the sport, Striver anticipates playing a pivotal role in nurturing a supportive online community for football enthusiasts across the region.Co-founder Gilberto Silva shares his excitement, saying, “Striver is more than a platform; it’s a community that celebrates the spirit of football without the negativity.I look forward to engaging with fans in the UAE and creating a space where the love for the game unites us all.”Co-founder Roberto Carlos adds, “In Striver, we have a platform that reflects the values of respect and teamwork that football embodies. I’m honoured to be part of this initiative and connect with fans in the UAE.”Striver invites football fans, enthusiasts, content creators, and social media users in the UAE to join the movement toward a more positive online experience. The platform is set to revolutionise the way fans engage with each other, their favourite players, and the sport they adore.

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      Web Summit Qatar 2024 opened its doors Monday at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC)

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      Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan to speak at Web Summit Qatar

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      Web Summit, the world’s largest technology conference, has announced that Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan will speak at Web Summit Qatar.
      The Queen of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan will make an address at Web Summit Qatar’s Centre Stage to discuss the impact of social media on our lives. Queen Rania will also talk about the importance of a wide exposure to different viewpoints in broadening horizons and achieving more balanced perspectives. Her Majesty is globally renowned for her work in education, advocating for the rights and aspirations of refugees and migrants worldwide, and promoting intercultural dialogue, while using social media platforms toadvance her work.Web Summit announced this week that its inaugural Middle East event had officially sold out, and expects to welcome more than 12,000 attendees from over 120 countriesto Doha this week.Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan will join speakers such as His Excellency the Prime Minister of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Emmy-winning South African comedian, Trevor Noah, Bollywood actress andsinger, Nora Fatehi, astronaut and Deep Space Initiative founder, Sara Sabry, WPP CEO, Mark Read and Whoop CEO, Will Ahmed.The largest and most globally diverse cohort of startups to ever gather in the region – more than 1,000 startups from 80 countries, including a strong Jordanian presence – will connect a new generation of investors and partners hailing from countries such as Qatar, the US, Egypt, Brazil, Italy, Nigeria, the UK, India, and beyond. Within the startup cohort, almost 200 will be coming from Africa, and more than 100 are part of the event’s Impact programme, which focuses on tech for good. Almost one third of attending startups are founded by women.The Doha event joins the company’s global roster alongside flagship event Web Summit, which draws 71,000 attendees to Lisbon each November; North America’s fastest growing tech event, Collision, in Toronto; and Web Summit Rio, which will take place in 2024 for the second time.Web Summit Qatar is taking place at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) February 26-29, 2024.
      Web Summit runs the world’s largest technology events, connecting people and ideas that change the world. Web Summit events – Web Summit in Lisbon, Web Summit Rio in South America, Collision in North America, RISE in Asia, and Web Summit Qatar inthe Middle East – have gathered half a million people since Web Summit’s beginnings as a 150-person conference in Dublin in 2009.Web Summit’s mission has been to create software that enables meaningful connections between the CEOs, founders, investors, members of the media, politicians and cultural icons who are reshaping the world.Forbes says Web Summit is “the best tech conference on the planet”; Bloomberg calls it “Davos for geeks”; Politico “the Olympics of tech”; the Guardian “Glastonbury for geeks”. In the words of the Financial Times, Web Summit is “the world’s largest tech conference”, and the Telegraph calls it the “planet’s best tech conference”.
      Web Summit website: https://websummit.com

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      Meyer Jabara Hotels Sets New Investment Course; Hires Ian McAuley as Chief Investment Officer

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      To expand its portfolio and capital partner alliances, Meyer Jabara Hotels welcomes Ian McAuley as Chief Investment Officer. In this newly created position, McAuley will source acquisition opportunities, equity investors, debt financing, and third-party management contracts. His 30 years of extensive publicly traded and privately held real estate experience and hands-on hotel development, operations, and ownership expertise will set the course for continued growth and profitability.“Good things really do come to those who wait,” said Meyer Jabara Hotels President Justin Jabara. “Ian is the rainmaker we have been searching for – for well over a year. He spent his career raising capital from kitchen tables to Wall Street, co-founded a management company, operated hotels, and knows where the money is made. His breadth of experience is profoundly unique in this space. With Ian running the investment side of our business, we can focus more closely on operations, profitability and growth. We welcome him aboard.”
      McAuley will relocate from Toronto to the company’s office in West Palm Beach, Fla. Short term, he will focus on getting to know the people, culture, and operating practices that drive margins and reap investment returns. Midterm he will speak to the investment community about MJH’s vast differentiators and focus on securing sources of capital. Long term, McAuley will seek out capital partners that don’t know about MJH and introduce them to the company’s fundamental principles and buy/develop assets to add to the portfolio.
      “Meyer Jabara Hotels has been around for 47 years, and it’s my job to make sure the company is set up to thrive over the next 47,” McAuley said. “What excites me about this new role is there is no rush to monetize the assets or sell off properties; no gun to my head to get deals done. At MJ there is a different mindset to growth . . . find the right assets and capital partners, then bring MJ in to provide returns for investors. It’s a great marriage.”
      Exceptional Background
      Over the years McAuley has incorporated more than $2 billion in real estate transactions across North America. His extensive corporate finance experience with private equity and institutional capital partners includes more than 100 ground-up developments and acquisitions, along with several initial public offerings. He also has been instrumental in the growth and expansion of numerous international hospitality companies.ADVERTISEMENT
      Prior posts include Co-founder, CEO, President and Director of VM Hotel Acquisition Corp. where he was successful in raising $100 million at the company’s Initial Public Offering on the Toronto Stock Exchange; Canadian President of Aimbridge Hospitality where he more than tripled the number of Canadian hotel management agreements during his first six months; President of American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP; President and COO of Superior Lodging Corp.; Co-Founder and Executive Vice President of Royop Hospitality Corp.; and Co-Founder and Vice President of InnVentures Hospitality Corp.
                               
      McAuley is a graduate of the University of Toronto – ICD-Rotman Directors Education Program and holds a Dipl T Hospitality, and Bachelor of Arts and Master of Business Administration degrees. He is a long-standing board member of Northern Vision Development LP, current board member and executive of The Musical Stage Co., former two-term director of the Hotel Assn. of Canada and was a board member of Hilton Hotels Advisory Board, Hallmark Properties Ltd., Airline Hotels and Resorts Ltd., and Theatre Calgary.

      “Timing is everything,” McAuley said. “Family owned and operated companies like Meyer Jabara Hotels that span three generations are the ones that are successful. I’m honored that they were not afraid to let a visionary like me in. It’s going to be a win-win-win for everyone. Now it’s time to get to work.”
      For more information on Meyer Jabara Hotels, visit www.mjhotels.com

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