Raffles Hotels & Resorts, a leading Singaporean chain of luxury hotels, is gearing up for the opening of its new property in Saudi Arabia - Raffles Jeddah - which is set to introduce a new era of refined coastal luxury to the kingdom.
The Middle East has cemented its position as a place of choice for planners delivering world class in person experiences. 2025 Cvent’s Top Lists named Dubai the #1 meeting destination, with Istanbul at #2 and Abu Dhabi at #3, underscoring the region’s unmatched infrastructure, access, and service culture.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach has been rebranded to the Sheraton The Walk, Dubai. Nestled between Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), the prime property boasts 361 spacious rooms and apartment-style suites along with other amenities.
Jumeirah, a global leader in luxury hospitality, has announced the launch of Jumeirah Eco Village – a well-curated sustainability destination at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai designed to inspire sustainable living through engaging, educational experiences.
Leading global hospitality group Hilton and RMKA Private Company have announced the signing of Sandblu Santorini, marking the highly anticipated debut of LXR Hotels & Resorts in Greece.
Leisure travel across all sectors remained strong in 2025, particularly among luxury and ultra luxury travelers, said a report. This trend should carry over into 2026, accompanied by increased demand for the services of travel advisors, it added.
Travel Counsellors, one of UK’s top technology platforms for travel entrepreneurs, said it has inked a deal for the strategic acquisition of Canadian group - The Travel Agent Next Door - thus creating a transatlantic leader in the travel operator market.
Air Arabia, a leading low-cost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa has announced the official launch of its daily non-stop flights to Munich from its hub in Sharjah, thus marking the airline’s first German destination served directly from UAE.
The Desert's Grand Stage', the Liwa International Festival, has returned (from December 12, 2025 to January 3, 2026), bringing 23 days of culture, adventure, motorsports, music, and family fun to the golden dunes of the Al Dhafra region.
Accor has signed an agreement with Arbah Taiba to develop Novotel Madinah North, scheduled to open in 2028 near Al Masjid an-Nabawi. The 200-room hotel will cater to pilgrims, business, and leisure travelers, supporting Madinah’s growing visitor demand and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 tourism goals.
