Airline, Events, Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

Emirates has today announced an exciting new offer for travellers planning to visit Dubai this winter. Starting from 12 January, people who have bought flights to Dubai or add a stopover in Dubai of 8 hours or more can enjoy free tickets to two of Dubai’s biggest attractions – the Museum of the Future and Atlantis Aquaventure. The Museum of the Future is the newest jewel in the Dubai skyline where visitors will be transported into the world 50 years from now. Furthermore, customers can cool off on the slides and rides at Atlantis Aquaventure, the world’s largest waterpark.
This special offer is valid on tickets bought between 12 January to 01 February 2024, for travel between 15 January and 31 March 2024. The offer is available in all cabins and bookings made on emirates.com, Emirates call centre, Emirates ticketing office or via travels agents, and can be redeemed at least 96 hours before travel.
Experience more of Dubai with Emirates
From soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches, shopping at Dubai Mall, enjoying the views from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa to dining at incredible restaurants, Dubai offers the perfect winter sun holiday. Other Emirates benefits include:
My Emirates Pass: Take advantage of hundreds more offers in Dubai and the UAE thanks to My Emirates Pass. Available until 31 March 2024, customers can just show their Emirates boarding pass at participating restaurants, spas, activities and more to access exclusive offers and discounts. To see all My Emirates Pass offers, please visit www.emirates.com/myemiratespass.Create your Dubai Experience: Pack more into each visit with Dubai Experience. Customers can browse, create, and book their own customised itineraries including flights, hotel stay, visits to key attractions, and other dining and leisure experiences in Dubai and the UAE.Emirates Skywards Partners: There’s more to enjoy as a member of the airline’s award-winning loyalty programme. Customers can earn Skywards Miles on everyday spends at retail outlets in the UAE with the Skywards Everyday app. Spend Miles on flights and upgrades or get tickets for concerts and sports events through Skywards Exclusives. Learn more about Emirates Skywards here: https://www.emirates.com/english/skywards/.Emirates Holidays/Vacations: Customers can book their holiday to Dubai through Emirates Holidays. All Emirates Holidays include flexible booking options. Whilst for even more peace of mind, Emirates Holidays’ dedicated 24/7 On Holiday Service team will be thereADVERTISEMENT

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A new chapter in travel has arrived on the global stage with the world class, digitally-led airline Riyadh Air, making its international debut at the 54th bi-annual Paris Air Show. The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner adorned with Riyadh Air’s unique livery touched down after a stunning fly-over the city of Riyadh for its first official reveal on Monday 12th June.  The disruptive new airline from Saudi Arabia will fly to more than 100 destinations, and reach 100 million visitors, by 2030 making Riyadh City a hub for global travel and encouraging visits to the Kingdom for business and leisure. The airline will bring a new level of attention to detail to guest experience and has technology that will raise the bar for the industry. The brand identity captures the heritage of the Kingdom whilst being modern and forward thinking with the tagline ‘The Future Takes Flight’.   
The aircraft is on display at the show, allowing visitors to view the unique indigo aircraft livery up close. Its lavender colour is symbolic of the welcoming and hospitable nature of the people in the Kingdom, as well as being a natural plant that carpets Saudi Arabia during spring and the tail design captures the movement of canopy tents in the desert.
Riyadh City is rapidly becoming a major player in global business and the rapid Saudi economic growth, which is targeted to be in the top 15 globally by 2030, is outperforming other major economies. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has many developing tourist sites, such as Al Ula, Diryah, and Qiddiyah, and the national airline will make the Kingdom more accessible whilst positioning Riyadh City as a global leader in aviation excellence.
The airline, which will join the global aviation sector with RX as its Airline Designator Code, is a catalyst for the Kingdom’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy and the National Tourism Strategy by leveraging the Kingdom’s strategic location connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe.  It is chaired by governor of the Public Investment Fund, His Excellency Yassir Al-Ramayyan with Tony Douglas CEO at the helm.     

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Etihad Airways is teaming up with Paramount Pictures to celebrate the theatrical release of the highly anticipated feature film Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One.
The next installment of the epic action franchise, written and directed by Christopher McQuarrie, will be released globally beginning 12 July. Among other locations, the movie was also shot in Abu Dhabi, Etihad’s home city
You can catch a glimpse of the iconic sand-dunes of the Liwa desert as well as Midfield Terminal, Abu Dhabi’s upcoming new flagship airport terminal and Etihad’s future home in the latest movie trailer.
From June to August, guests flying in Etihad’s First and Business cabins will be treated to a cinema style Movie Snacks menu and indulge in themed mocktails such as Mission Accomplished, Undercover Sipper, Secret Agent and Thyme’s Up. All Etihad guests will enjoy inflight entertainment featuring Mission: Impossible content.
In addition to the onboard experience, Etihad will be celebrating the film’s release with a co-branded marketing campaign featuring bespoke content and flight specials with self-destructing offers. Fans around the world will get to travel on their next mission with a movie themed experience.ADVERTISEMENTLater in the year, guests travelling on Etihad will be able to experience a dedicated Mission: Impossible channel on E-BOX, its inflight entertainment service. The channel will feature all seven of the Mission Impossible series as well as exciting behind-the-scenes content.
Amina Taher, Vice President Brand, Marketing and Sponsorships, Etihad Airways, said: “The Mission Impossible blockbusters are a phenomenal series and we’re incredibly proud to partner with Paramount Pictures to showcase Etihad and Abu Dhabi to the world. We are thrilled to be able to give millions of guests the opportunity to enjoy the Mission Impossible films during their Etihad flight and to showcase the film across our global network.”
Irene Trachtenberg, SVP, Worldwide Marketing & Partnerships, Paramount Pictures, commented: “We are happy to partner with Etihad and to shoot in Abu Dhabi once again. Having Etihad aircraft and cabin crew authentically in the movie celebrates our appreciation of the warm welcome Abu Dhabi gave to our production. Our partnership with Etihad will help to reach Mission: Impossible fans globally as they can watch the previous Mission: Impossible movies on the inflight entertainment as they fly to, from or through Abu Dhabi on their own missions.”
This is the third time the blockbuster movie series has chosen the UAE as a location, with Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol being the first of the franchise to be filmed in the country in 2011.
Abu Dhabi is now a popular location for movie makers having attracted Hollywood blockbusters and independent filmmakers from across the globe in recent years. The film industry in Abu Dhabi has seen significant growth thanks to the Abu Dhabi Film Commission and its investment in cutting edge production facilities and infrastructure.Abu Dhabi’s diverse landscapes offer captivating and inspiring backdrops for cinematography, ranging from the modern, skyscraper filled skyline to the expansive deserts and sand dunes featured in the Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One trailer.

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Discover Qatar is thrilled to unveil its highly anticipated Formula 1® Ultimate Fan Experience Package, offering motorsport enthusiasts a unique opportunity to be in the midst of the most prestigious racing event, the Formula 1® Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023, taking place in Doha between 6 – 8 October 2023. Adding allure to this premium package, car enthusiasts will enjoy complementary entry into the first Geneva International Motor Show in Qatar.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker said: “At Discover Qatar, we are dedicated to continuing our legacy in providing world-class packages to our travellers and ensuring exceptional experiences in Doha. The latest F1® Ultimate Fan Experience Package offers motorsport enthusiasts three days of thrills and luxury with meet-and-greet opportunities, Paddock Club™ access, and entry into the prestigious Geneva International Motor Show 2023. We have curated this spectacle to be one fans will never forget, maintaining our excellence when it comes to large-scale global events.”

Discover Qatar’s F1® Ultimate Fan Experience Package grants fans exclusive privileges to the most sought-after areas of the race circuit to witness the intense action from prime viewing locations, in addition to access to the team garages, pit lane, and the start and finish line. Fans will also receive an invite to a meet-and-greet lunch with F1® Drivers or Legends.
ADVERTISEMENTWith access to the Formula 1 Paddock Club™, enthusiasts can enjoy pit lane walks, fan zones, guided track tours, and dedicated Paddock Club™ parking. For those eager to immerse themselves in the electric atmosphere of the grandstand, complementary seating will be provided.

Automotive enthusiasts looking to be a part of the exhilarating and luxurious weekend can secure their F1® Ultimate Fan Experience Package with a starting price of QAR 26,795. With limited ticket availability, bookings can be completed on www.discoverqatar.qa/F1.

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Qatar Airways, the Global Partner and Official Airline of F1®, in partnership with Qatar Airways Holidays, announced this weekend the launch of its exclusive travel packages for the upcoming F1® races this season. The travel packages allow fans to be up-close to high-octane action, and exclusively enjoy unique experiences including pit lane walks, guided track tours, and special events with select F1® drivers.
Fans have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to purchase an array of flexible packages for all of the 2023 F1® race destinations, including the forthcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix and Qatar Airways Gran Premio del Made in Italy e Dell’Emilia-Romagna. In addition, the airline’s Privilege Club members can also earn Avios points – the world’s leading loyalty rewards currency, based on the total value of these Ultimate F1® Fan Travel Packages.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are thrilled to introduce our F1® Travel Packages to motorsports fans around the world. We have worked hard to create these affordable packages that offer unbeatable value. The Formula 1® Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix packages offer fans the additional experience to attend the superlative Geneva International Motor Show that is taking place in Qatar from 5-14 October. The access to the most highly anticipated auto show of the year makes the Qatar Grand Prix Travel Package a guaranteed unforgettable experience and the most affordable travel package for fans.”
From start to end of their journey, the packages are designed for fans to enjoy a seamless motorsport extravaganza, with the inclusion of return flights, hotel accommodations, F1® Paddock Club or Grandstand race tickets, and much more. Motorsport enthusiasts planning to attend the Formula 1® Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023 are encouraged to purchase the Early Bird Offer by 31 May 2023. To guarantee this unique personalised experience, fans can choose their most convenient travel package, with prices starting at $1,110 USD, by visiting: qatarairways.com/F1
Qatar Airways as a brand is committed to supporting sports globally, helping fans travel to their favourite events around the world. The airline is the Official Airline of Concacaf, Paris-Saint Germain, The Royal Challengers Bangalore, the IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 Triathlon Series, the United Rugby Championship (URC) and European Professional Club Rugby (EPC), the Global Kitesports Association (GKA) and GKA Kite World Tour, and multiple other disciplines including Australian football, basketball, equestrian, motor racing, squash, and tennis.ADVERTISEMENT

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In light of Africa’s vast landmass, its population accounting for 16% of the world population, and its low share of global trade of 2%, the continent is an excellent opportunity to develop air transport. However, as a market, Africa’s share over several decades has remained stagnant at less than 3% of the world market – it is time to take action to change this narrative.
The 11th Aviation Stakeholders Convention, scheduled to take place from 07-09 May 2023 is timely and aligned to address this situation. The Convention, which is proudly being hosted by Ethiopian Airlines under the patronage of the Government of Ethiopia, will be held under the theme: “Changing the African Aviation Narrative”. The event will bring together over 400 delegates from Africa and across the globe. The Convention is one of Africa’s leading forums for air transport industry stakeholders to dialogue, exchange knowledge and experiences for the development of the travel ecosystem. Several African airline Chief Executive Officers and aviation industry thought leaders will be present at the event.
Speaking in Addis Ababa on the significance of attainment of sustainability that will change the narrative of Africa’s air transport, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé emphasized the importance of dialogue among stakeholders and collaborative initiatives such as those facilitated by AFRAA: “AFRAA and Ethiopian Airlines are excited to stage this Convention for the travel ecosystem stakeholders to meet, deliberate on strategies to enhance efficiencies, create synergies, develop intra-Africa connectivity, ensure business continuity that will redefine the narrative of Africa air transport industry.”
Mr. Mesfin Bekele, Group CEO Ethiopian Airlines remarked, “We are delighted to host the 11th Aviation Stakeholders’ Convention of AFRAA which will serve as a forum for stakeholders in the industry to put their heads together and discuss the opportunities and pressing issues in Africa’s aviation sector. The forum will showcase the ‘Africa Rising’ mantra manifested in the growing opportunities for all stakeholders in the continent’s aviation industry.” 
Event HighlightsADVERTISEMENTThe Convention will be held from 07-09 May 2023 at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa Ethiopia.  A robust and comprehensive programme has been lined up to facilitate discussions on various salient topics, masterclasses, networking opportunities at social events and B2B sessions through a conferencing application. Delegates will have the opportunity to network and discuss developments in the industry and forge business partnerships.
CSR event for youth development in aviation: On 10th May, the Convention activities shall cover a CSR activity aimed at empowering the next generation of aviators at the Ethiopian University. The event will be sponsored by Collins Aerospace and staged in collaboration with AFRAA and Ethiopian Airlines. 
Exhibition: There shall be exhibition and showcase of aviation-related products and solutions at the exhibition segment of the Convention.
Sponsors: The Stakeholders Convention is proudly sponsored by Ethiopian Airlines, ASECNA, ATNS, Boeing, Collins Aerospace and Embraer.
About AFRAA:
The African Airlines Association, also known by its acronym AFRAA, is the leading trade association of airlines from the member states of the African Union (AU). Founded in Accra, Ghana, in April 1968, and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, AFRAA’s mission is to promote, serve African Airlines and champion Africa’s aviation industry. The Association envisions a sustainable, interconnected and affordable Air Transport industry in Africa where African Airlines become key players and drivers to African economic development. AFRAA membership of 48 airlines cuts across the entire continent and includes all the major intercontinental African operators. The Association members represent over 85% of total international traffic carried by African airlines. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

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Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism joined forces to partner with the highly acclaimed Destination Wedding Planners (DWP) Congress 2023, an exclusive event that brought the largest Business-to-Business platform for weddings to Doha.This collaboration underscores the city’s growing stature as a key figure in the MICE industry, which continues to attract business travellers from around the world.
The 9th edition of DWP congress was held from 14-16 March, to bring together leading wedding planner professionals who provided fresh perspectives on the industry through a series of keynote speeches and DWP masterclasses. Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker opened the congress with a speech to spotlight Qatar’s offerings as a versatile and captivating wedding destination.
Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Our continuous effort to promote Qatar as a leading destination that caters to the needs of all travellers has been further strengthened by the recent hosting of the Destination Wedding Planners Congress 2023. This event is regarded as the most prestigious B2B gathering in the multi-billion-dollar wedding industry, and we are honoured to have had the best wedding planners and designers in Doha. We eagerly anticipate welcoming them back following an inspiring visit this year, and look forward to seeing their vision for luxurious and elaborate weddings.”Ackash Jain, Director of QnA International, organiser of the prestigious DWP Congress said: “Qatar is one of the most fascinating countries in the world to tie the knot with its majestic palatial resorts and scenic backdrops. Combining world-class hospitality with cosmopolitan sophistication, it seamlessly opens the door to planning some of the most opulent celebrations. We are proud to bring the world’s biggest destination wedding congress to Qatar, which was at a perfect timing right after the FIFA World Cup™. With the support of Qatar Tourism, Qatar Airways and other regional and international partners, we were able to showcase the best of Qatar as a wedding destination to leading wedding experts from around the world.”
The DWP congress has grown rapidly since its inception in 2014, which took place in Greece, and has successfully made its mark in desirable destinations across the globe from Florence, Phuket, Los Cabos, Dubai and Bali.
This year the congress highlighted Doha, a city that has undergone remarkable developments in hospitality, aviation, the service industry and tourist attractions. In the last year the country has hosted what is being called the greatest FIFA World CupTM, a mega-event which has made the country fully equipped to take on a wider range of global events.ADVERTISEMENTp > 

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Insightful discussions and debates on sustainability, the economic outlook, and key trends shaping the future of aviation will be in the spotlight as the milestone 10th edition of the Arab Aviation Summit (AAS) gets underway from March 14-16 at Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Centre in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.Organised under the theme ‘Impactful sustainability in modern-day travel and tourism’, the three-day summit hosting a distinguished gathering of thought-leaders, innovators, and industry experts, will explore decarbonising pathways in aviation and discuss the challenges and opportunities in the industry with the continued rise of disruptive technologies. Leading regional and global players in the aviation and travel industry will headline inspiring keynote addresses and participate in interactive panel discussions that offer a deep dive into best practices, sustainable business models, regional trends in aviation and tourism, and more.
Prominent speakers at the event include H.H. Sheikha Mozah bint Marwan Al Maktoum, first lieutenant pilot of the Dubai Police Airwing; H.E Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA); H.E. Ilin Dimitrov, Minister of Tourism, Republic of Bulgaria, Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia and Abdul Wahab Teffaha, Secretary General, Arab Air Carriers Organisation (AACO).

In a discussion with other industry experts, Ted O’Byrne Chief Executive at AviLease, and Mikail Houari, President, Africa and Middle East at Airbus, will explore the fundamentals of airline economics under the pillar of sustainability. Val Miftakhov Founder & CEO at ZeroAvia – a company developing the world’s first practical zero emission aviation powertrain, will discuss pathways to net zero in the aviation, travel and tourism industry while Andreas Slettvoll, CEO CHOOOSE, will be part of a discussion on the rise of the next generation traveller and share insights on how the industry is preparing for the future of travel. Dr. Fethi Chebil, CEO and Founder of VPORTS, will offer insights into how advanced air mobility will shape airlines, airports and travel operations.
Several other industry professionals at the Summit will also deliberate on the rise of travel destinations in the Middle East and offer varied perspectives on airport sustainability including how technology and influencers are shaping the travel and hospitality industry.ADVERTISEMENTHosted in collaboration with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, AAS 2023 is supported by global industry partners such as Airbus, CFM, Collins Aerospace, Turkish Teknik, T3 Aviation Academy, and others. For updates on the Summit: www.arabaviationsummit.net | Twitter: @AAviationSummit.

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