Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Tourism experts discuss guidelines for tech evolution

Tourism sector experts and technology leaders established guidelines for the technological evolution of tourism at the Fiturtechy 2025, held as part of Fitur in Madrid.
 
Fiturtechy, the leading platform for technology, innovation, and tourism sustainability, organised by Fitur and the Hotel Technological Institute (ITH), celebrated its 17th edition, inspired by the tales of “One Thousand and One Nights.” 
 
Over three days of the International Tourism Trade Fair at IFEMA Madrid, the event hosted prominent figures from the tourism sector, consolidating itself as the main knowledge hub for technology, business, destinations, and sustainability in tourism.
 
The opening sessions were led by representatives such as Luis Martín Izquierdo, Deputy Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Sports of the Community of Madrid, who highlighted the role of technology in the hospitality sector as part of the 19th edition of the section, and emphasised the positive evolution of tourism data in the Community of Madrid. 
 
Jordi Hereu, Minister of Industry and Tourism, was also present during these inaugural sessions, where he reminded attendees of “the significant challenge sustainability poses for a country that welcomes 94 million tourists.”
 
From January 22 to 24, professionals participated in presentations spanning four thematic pillars: TechYnegocio: “Aladdin 4.0: The Business and Its Magic Lamp,” sponsored by AdQuiver. TechYFuturo: “The Genie of Tomorrow’s Desires,” sponsored by American Express. TechYdestino: “A Magic Carpet to Explore the World,” sponsored by Maarlab. TechYsostenibilidad: “The Oasis in the Desert,” sponsored by Veolia and the TechYhotel space, showcasing the innovative hotel of the future, was supported by Enovam as the energy partner and Telefónica Empresas as the technology partner.
 
TechYnegocio comprehensively explored the economic, technological, and experiential changes shaping tourism’s future. Topics included macroeconomic analysis, Next Generation Fund strategies, revenue optimization, and experience personalization. The segment emphasized innovation and public-private collaboration for sustainable sector development. Discussions addressed Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, customer and employee experiences, and differentiation strategies through content creation and social media. Key participants included Jorge Marichal (CEHAT), Pablo Díez (Uground), and Rebecca Johnson (Foundever). A unique contribution came from virtual influencer Alba Renai, highlighting emerging trends in tourism technology. The Sergestur Awards were also presented, recognizing “The 150 Most Influential Professionals in Spain’s Tourism Sector.” 
 
In TechYFuturo, the challenges and opportunities of tourism in the context of digital transformation were addressed, highlighting the impact of artificial intelligence, innovation in smart tourist destinations, and the personalization of experiences. The presentations and debates covered topics ranging from the creation of sustainable metropolises to the development of strategies for premium clients, with experts such as Jesús Gatell (ITH), Julia López (American Express), and Jesús Serrano (Microsoft). Technological tools for enhancing the hotel experience and strengthening direct distribution were analyzed, while debates on data usage, Smart Cities, and marketing dynamics emphasized the importance of connecting technology and emotions to satisfy the modern traveler. Additionally, practical workshops on artificial intelligence and roundtables on training in smart tourism highlighted the relevance of collaboration and training to lead the future of the sector. With notable interventions and reflections on sustainability and humanization, TechYFuturo has been a key space for the exchange of ideas and innovation in global tourism.
 
TechYdestino focused on digital transformation, sustainability, and personalization as key pillars for the development of smart tourist destinations. Over the course of three days, experts and industry leaders debated the impact of technology on improving the management of mature destinations and creating personalized experiences, highlighting how artificial intelligence is redefining standards and optimising traveller satisfaction. Presentations such as those by Raúl Domínguez (Maarlab) and Álvaro Carrillo de Albornoz (ITH) addressed innovative topics like blue tourism and digital twins in destinations. Additionally, roundtables explored trends such as the rise of wellness tourism, smart mobility, and the challenges faced by destinations in the digital era, featuring prominent voices like Kike Sarasola (Room Mate Hotels) and representatives from the Alliance of Tourist Municipalities of Sun and Beach (AMT).
 
The AMT Smart Destinations Awards 2025 recognised technological innovation in projects such as Ok Located, Freeplantour, Barceló Hotel Group, Murmuration, and the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria City Council for their successfully implemented tech solutions. 
 
Finally, TechYsostenibilidad highlighted the importance of integrating sustainability into every aspect of tourism, from the traveler’s experience to the management of destinations and urban services. Throughout the event, innovations such as the ITH TechYroom 2.0, a sustainable and technological room model presented by José Picó, were explored, and discussions were held on how hotels can become beacons of sustainability and engines of local development.  - TradeArabia News Service

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

All-Economy Oman Air Connect launched

Oman Air has launched a new series of all-Economy Class aircraft, designed to offer more affordable travel options while maintaining the airline’s renowned comfort and service.
 
 Oman Air Connect will consist of five Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, the first of which arrived earlier this month. 
 
The new aircraft will primarily operate to the Indian Subcontinent, Middle East, and Africa, complementing the airline’s existing network, while offering greater accessibility to travellers. Alongside several recent service and product enhancements, Oman Air is also preparing to introduce upgraded in-flight entertainment, ensuring a more modern and engaging onboard experience, the airline said.
 
Con Korfiatis, Chief Executive Officer at Oman Air, said: “The way people travel has evolved, with greater accessibility and choice; at the same time, passengers still want to enjoy a comfortable journey. With this all-Economy fleet, we are adapting to these changing needs, providing our guests with more flexibility and choice without compromising on quality.”
 
Oman Air, which embarked on a three-year financial transformation in 2023, has implemented several initiatives to strengthen its position in the market and ensure long-term sustainability. The airline continues to serve over 40 destinations with a mix of wide-body and narrow-body aircraft, offering three cabin classes and a diverse range of fare options. Through these efforts, the award-winning airline remains committed to delivering exceptional travel experiences tailored to the modern traveller. – TradArabia News Service 
 

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Boeing to showcase cutting-edge solutions at Idex

Boeing will present its advanced defence and security capabilities and services at the International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2025) in Abu Dhabi from February 17 to 21. 
 
“IDEX is a key opportunity to engage with partners across the region and showcase how our advanced defense solutions can support the country’s security and aerospace ambitions,” said Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia. 
 
“Our commitment to the UAE spans more than four decades, and we look forward to deepening collaboration through pioneering industrial and technological initiatives and further contributing to the growing domestic defense industrial base.” 
 
At IDEX 2025, among the products being highlighted include:
• T-7 Advanced Trainer – Next-generation pilot training system with fighter-like performance.
• AH-64 Apache – Advanced, combat-proven attack helicopter, evolving for continued battlefield dominance.
• CH-47 Chinook – Multi-mission heavy-lift helicopter with advanced digital cockpit and cargo handling capabilities.
• F-15EX – The backbone of tactical fighter fleets with increased payload capacity, advanced electronic warfare system and the world’s most powerful fighter radar.
• Insitu Integrator ER – Long-range uncrewed system for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. 
 
Boeing will also showcase its services portfolio, including performance-based logistics support, parts, modifications and modernization, upgrades, and training. These offerings are designed to support the defense modernization and mission readiness of customers in the UAE and the Middle East.
 
Boeing has been a trusted partner of the UAE Government since 1978, providing and sustaining advanced defense platforms, including the AH-64 Apache, CH-47 Chinook, and C-17 Globemaster III. These aircraft play a vital role in protecting the UAE’s air, land, and sea borders and supporting global humanitarian missions. 
 
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top US exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. 
 
Boeing's team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Boeing’s relationship with the Middle East extends back to 1945. Since then, Boeing has established several offices across the region including in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Kuwait, and Riyadh, a statement said. - TradeArabia News Service