Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

WTTC welcomes Embratur as its newest destination partner

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced the integration of the Brazilian Tourism Institute of Tourism (Embratur) as its newest Destination Partner, marking an exciting chapter in collaborative efforts to drive global tourism growth.
 
As a WTTC Destination Partner, Embratur will participate in high-level forums featuring CEOs and executives from around 200 of the most influential companies and destinations in the tourism sector.
 
These forums align with WTTC's mission to unlock the potential of the Travel & Tourism sector for inclusive, sustainable, and resilient growth.
 
 Through collaboration with governments, destinations, communities, and industry leaders, WTTC aims to foster economic development, create jobs, and reduce poverty worldwide.
 
Under its promotional brand ‘Visit Brasil’, Embratur joins more than 30 prominent Destination Partners within WTTC's global network. These include organisations such as Atout France, Brand USA, Abu Dhabi, Destination Canada, Dubai, Visit California, ProColombia, Buenos Aires, Thailand, Portugal, and Rwanda, among others.
  
Julia Simpson, President & CEO WTTC, said: “It is an honour to announce Embratur as our new Destination Partner. Brazil stands as a global icon in the Travel & Tourism sector, and through this partnership, we will work together to strengthen the resilience of the industry while unlocking opportunities for growth that benefit everyone.”
 
According to WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) 2024, conducted in collaboration with Oxford Economics, Brazil's tourism sector contributes 7.7% to the country’s GDP, amounting to a staggering $165.4 billion.
 
By joining WTTC, Embratur will enhance Brazil’s global presence as a leading tourism destination while contributing to the initiatives and policies spearheaded by the organisation. Membership also grants access to a premier network of key stakeholders in the global tourism industry.
 
Marcelo Freixo, President of Embratur, commented: “It is an honour for Embratur to join WTTC’s distinguished group of Destination Partners. This partnership provides a platform to strengthen Brazil’s standing as a central player in global tourism discussions. We remain steadfast in our commitment to promoting Brazil as a destination that harmonises tourism with the challenges of the 21st century, fostering development through environmental sustainability and the celebration of human diversity.” -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