Starfish Travel Corporation Team

Executive of the Year – Tourism went to Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi, at the Middle East Management Excellence Awards ceremony in Dubai. The evening honored the region’s most remarkable business executives, with Cruise Saudi CEO taking up this prestigious title. Attendees included C-suite level, senior management, digital and technology business department heads, and marketing communications executive visitors. The “Executive of the Year – Tourism” award honors an individual who has made a noteworthy contribution to the development and success of a business. Lars Clasen has overseen Cruise Saudi’s ambitious offshore and onshore cruise ecosystem-building process in conjunction with esteemed international partners, government and local entities, and a passionate team of visionaries with the goal of establishing Saudi as a top international cruise destination. Lars Clasen has led Cruise Saudi through its exponential initial growth phase. By the end of its third season, Cruise Saudi had welcomed more than 300,000 visitors to Saudi Arabia’s shores from more than 100 different countries. Since its launch in 2021, the company has fully equipped three ports with the infrastructure needed to welcome international cruise ships: Jeddah Islamic Port, Yanbu Commercial Port, and King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam. By 2035, Cruise Saudi hopes to welcome 1.3 million cruise passengers to the country by sea. This ambitious goal is made possible by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the government’s own goal of receiving 100 million tourists annually. Notably, Cruise Saudi has continued to implement training and development programs in conjunction with regional universities and foreign cruise lines, and additional plans are in the works to give Saudi youth the knowledge and experience they need to work in the cruise industry. Cruise Saudi is having an impact on the local economy in addition to the worldwide cruise market, with 50,000 direct and indirect employment expected to be produced by 2035, a current Saudization rate of 77%, and ambitions to hire additional Saudi residents in the coming years. A future-focused approach is a key component of the plan for Cruise Saudi’s sustained expansion and success on the global cruising arena, especially with trailblazing innovation like the introduction of its owned-cruise line, AROYA Cruises, the first of its kind created with Arabian tastes. Lars Clasen commented on the victory, saying, “Since joining Cruise Saudi in February of last year, I am extremely delighted to have witnessed the organization make enormous steps in establishing Saudi as a global cruise destination. This award was definitely a team effort, so I would want to receive it while also praising the cooperation and commitment of all Cruise Saudi employees. We are set to begin our fourth season, which will strengthen local communities, provide jobs, and expand Saudi Arabia’s great tourism industry by drawing in more foreign tourists. As the innovative cruise line sets sail for season four, Cruise Saudi will keep collaborating with the government and local organizations to develop ports and curate top-notch destination experiences that boost both tourism and the local economy—many of which are welcoming visitors for the first time. Source- Travel daily Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/cruise-saudi-recognised-for-growth-of-the-cruise-sector-in-saudi/

An amazing celebration has been presented amidst the picturesque hills and foothills of Uttarakhand by the eco-friendly boutique hotel brand Stotrak Hospitality, which has properties spread across Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The Kenilworth Mussoorie & Hotel Luxury Inn Mussoorie in Mussoorie and Sukhoon Retreat in Dakpathar, two of the group’s most picturesque resorts, will be hosting a delightful stay this holiday season. Stotrak promises a spectacular journey, including the allure of Mussoorie, the serenity of Dehradun’s Great Yamuna River, and the meditative vibes of Rishikesh.  The owner of Stotrak Hospitality, Manish Goyal, remarked, “The most anticipated season of the year is back. Our staff will serve as your ambassadors throughout the area and design an agenda specifically for your visit. Visitors will have the chance to discover secret pathways and relax in the great outdoors. To celebrate the holiday spirit, we present a variety of scrumptious treats, excellent experiences, and an appealing ambiance with upbeat rhythms.  A 3-star boutique hotel called The Kenilworth Mussoorie by Stotrak is situated in the center of Mussoorie. It offers generously sized accommodations, simple access to the Mall Road, parking options, and top-notch hospitality. The Hotel Luxury Inn Mussoorie by Stotrak, meanwhile, is a short stroll from the Mall Road and features 26 opulent rooms with breathtaking valley views, a rooftop multi-cuisine restaurant, Wi-Fi, and 24-hour hot water. Visitors can travel to Sukoon travel in Dakpathar, an eco-friendly haven that offers activities like swimming, Ayurvedic wellness, trekking, and secret waterfall hikes, for those who want to get away into nature. Diwali is a time of joyous celebration, and Stotrak Hospitality has offered a number of Diwali specials to make the occasion even more memorable. There is also a list of must-attend festivals that will begin the next month. Visitors can take part in the Egaas festival in Mussoorie, Dehradun, and Rishikesh following Diwali. Adventurers can enjoy water activities at the Tehri Lake Festival in Mussoorie from February 4 to February 6. Yoga fans should put March 8 through March 14 of 2024 on their calendars for the International Yoga Festival in Rishikesh. With their winter sun and chilly Mall Road strolls, December and January in Mussoorie provide a “White Christmas of the Hills.”  The Uttarakhand region’s Operation Manager, Ankit Mishra, stated: “The beauty of Uttarakhand is not confined to breathtaking hills; it has a lot more to offer. We chose these locations because they each provide distinctive experiences for that reason. Visitors can even select among the well-known Ayurvedic resorts in Uttarakhand, which range from the highlands of Mussoorie to the adventurous and spiritual Rishikesh and the calm environment of Dakpathar. Source- Travel daily Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/stotrak-hospitality-unveils-unforgettable-festive-experiences-amidst-nature/

This autumn, long-distance travelers are eager to discover European places, with travel intentions from major markers maintaining stable or rising in comparison to previous year. Travel to Europe has becoming increasingly popular, especially in China. In spite of worries about expensive travel and increased airfares, 74% of Chinese survey participants want to travel to Europe between September and December 2023. This reflects a significant 10% increase from the same time last year and a 9% increase over the last travel season before China closed its borders to travel, which was in the fall of 2019. Despite rising inflation, travel interest climbed marginally in both the US (+3%) and Canada (+2%). In Australia and Brazil, travelers’ intentions to visit Europe have somewhat decreased from the previous year. Australia saw a 3% decline, which may be attributed to travelers’ growing desire to visit new places and the summer months in the Southern Hemisphere, which make domestic travel more alluring. Brazil also had a 3% decline, but opinion is still positive there, with more than half (52%) of respondents saying they want to visit Europe. When compared to the same time in 2022, Japanese respondents’ travel intentions to Europe increased significantly, by 12%. Even still, Japan continues to be the most cautious market among all those questioned, with only 25% of respondents planning to go to Europe in the next few months. This is supported by the most recent Long-Haul Travel Barometer (LHTB), which the European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail BV released today. In six significant long-haul markets—Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, and the United States—the LHTB tracks travelers’ plans to visit Europe. The most recent issue discusses travel behavior between September 2023 and December 2023. Following the release of the LHTB 3/2023, ETC President Miguel Sanz made the following statement: “After a protracted period of disruption due to the Covid pandemic, Europe is reestablishing its connection with Asian tourists.” Our allure to long-distance travelers continues to be strong, with Europe’s ageless culture and history serving as the main pull. It’s very exciting to observe how rail travel is becoming more and more popular, and how tourists are becoming more interested in slow travel. It’s critical that we focus especially on the responsible growth of the tourism business right now more than ever. The travel plans of tourists are changing as a result of high prices. Overall, there is still a high level of interest in visiting Europe, but in all six markets, this interest is mostly hampered by high travel costs. This is particularly true in Brazil and Australia, where 45% and 40% of visitors, respectively, are deterred from taking a vacation in Europe because of the high costs. The perceived affordability of services and experiences inside the location is therefore becoming more important to travelers across all markets (32% vs. 28% last year). Tourists are implementing new tactics to get the most of their experience while staying within their budget as travel-related expenditures rise. The most common strategy is to cut back on shopping spending (35%), a strategy that is especially well-liked by respondents from Canada, Australia, and Japan. Use of reward programs and reasonably priced all-inclusive packages are two further new spending trends that 30% of respondents in all regions, but are especially popular in Brazil and China, are considering. The culture and history of Europe particularly appeal to long-distance travelers In five of the six markets examined, travelers cite culture and history as Europe’s top draws. China is an exception, where tourists’ keen interest in culture and history is surpassed only by their desire for culinary and urban experiences. Notably, slow travel is becoming more popular overall this fall (+7% compared to 2022), particularly with visitors from Japan, Australia, Canada, and the US. Long-distance travelers are also drawn to well-known locations this fall. Compared to the same period in 2022, a growing number of respondents (+6%) said that they are most interested in visiting places that are home to famous landmarks in Europe. Another important factor that influences where travelers choose to go is the weather. Chinese visitors place the greatest emphasis on climate factors (39%), followed by Australian and Brazilian visitors (both at 34%). To get between European destinations, travelers prefer trains and inexpensive flights. An intriguing shift in preferred modes of transportation between destinations has been seen among Australian travelers. While flying continues to be the most popular option, interest in rail passes has significantly increased (+8%) and that of bus travel has slightly increased (+2%). With 34% of poll participants inclined to purchase a rail pass and 32% interested in at least one train ticket, rail travel remains the top means of transportation for Canadian tourists. Despite previously favoring air travel, US travelers are now becoming more interested in rail transportation due to its price and efficiency in terms of trip durations. Despite rail’s strong position as a long-distance travel alternative, low-cost airplanes remain the most widely used. Although rail has historically been the primary mode of transportation for Brazilians, interest in low-cost aircraft has increased by 13% in that country. The Canadian market, where the appeal of low-cost flights increased by 9%, exhibits the same pattern. Source- Travel daily Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/europes-culture-and-history-draw-in-long-haul-travellers-despite-rising-costs/

What does this mean for the broader travel sector, given that France has banned domestic flights when there is a rail alternative and major European carriers like Air France, KLM, and Lufthansa are backing the change?  How can travel agents and B2B suppliers participate in and support this crucial climate initiative?  To learn more, we consult experts from all facets of the travel value chain. According to Alice Ferrari of aviation technology company Kyte, there is a commercial potential for airlines in the rail boom. “The shift to rail doesn’t mean airlines need to lose out,” she tells us.  “Future-focused carriers have already realized there is an economic opportunity, thanks to airlines like KLM.  Airlines should consider intermodality, which involves providing several modes of transportation for a traveler’s whole journey, and provide travelers with options for using public transportation on some or all of their itineraries.  Additionally, airlines can consider forming partnerships with train businesses to acquire and sell rail seats and simply count this as an additional source of revenue. Travel agencies, including airlines and train carriers, must be prepared to plug and play with several travel apps and itinerary-planning tools as multimodal transit becomes more significant to consumers. The switch to rail is, however, hampered by a number of real-world obstacles.  Many booking systems and third parties are not adequately set up to manage the B2B payment with rail providers automatically, or even at all, according to Spencer Hanlon of the worldwide real-time payments platform Nium.  We must collaborate to find quick solutions to these problems in order to meet the growing demand for rail. The industry may not be ready to accept rail bookings in bulk at this time due to the complexity of rail ticketing, the variety of providers and schedules, as well as the possibility of cancellations or rebookings. I firmly believe that rail is and will continue to develop as an alternative to air for any route that can be covered in less than four hours by train, says Emilie Dumont, Managing Director at Digitrips, the company that owns the popular French multi-product travel platform MisterFly.  In the upcoming years, high-speed train improvements will also be beneficial.  Train travel is practical because stations are located inside cities, there are no security lines, and passengers can arrive as little as ten minutes prior to departure and still enjoy comfort and wifi onboard.  The primary problem I notice is with carbon estimations; the approach is a little out of date compared to air… However, I see progress in this.  In 2024, we also intend to improve our rail services, offering our B2B clients train-inclusive travel options. As a last point, Andres Fabris of Traxo, the sole supplier of real-time business travel data capture in the globe, points out that booking train tickets presents a substantial challenge. According to Fabris, “Many business travelers avoid official booking channels because rail reservations are complicated and there aren’t enough options in standard corporate booking systems or through Travel Management Companies (TMCs).” This issue hinders the promotion of train travel despite its significant advantages for lowering the company’s carbon footprint, not to mention it leaves travel managers who are responsible for duty of care in the dark. For enterprises to adopt train travel, capture technology like ours that can capture rail reservations wherever they are made is essential. Source- Travel daily Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/from-planes-to-trains-how-will-the-shift-impact-the-way-travel-is-sold/

Emirates, a company renowned for its dedication to cutting-edge technology and innovation, has introduced a new “One Device” strategy utilizing Apple products, in which all 20,000 Emirates Cabin Crew members receive iPhone 13 or iPad Air devices set up with personalized Emirates apps to enhance the overall crew experience as well as improve and streamline passenger service onboard. The operation, which started with the distribution of Apple products more than a year ago, has already attracted investments totaling more than AED 32 million from Emirates. On the 450 flights Emirates operates each day around the globe, more than 7,000 of the airline’s crew members use iPhones. Building on the successful deployment, 5,000 more cabin crew members will get iPhones and iPads with new apps and features in the upcoming months. Prior to creating and developing a suite of native, custom-built apps to enhance the cabin crew’s user experience and guarantee that customers receive the world-class service Emirates is known for, Emirates’ internal Service Delivery and IT teams performed extensive user research with cabin crew. According to feedback so far, Apple devices enable cabin workers to feel more prepared for work and give passengers a more customized experience. One of these specially created apps enhances the Business Class in-flight meal ordering process, ensuring prompt and accurate service and enabling the cabin staff to view each passenger’s profile and Skywards status. Another app makes sure that the crew has access to the most recent flight information, the roster, and a list of the cabin staff that are traveling with them. The 360-degree view of passengers provided by Emirates cabin crew allows them to personalize each passenger’s experience to an unprecedented degree, even providing details like dining and drink preferences and onboard loungewear sizes – if used on prior flights. This gives them access to critical real-time data and gives them the tools they need to perform at their best. A team of specially trained professionals at the Emirates Dubai hub and through Apple help are just two of the 24/7 worldwide resources made available by the One Device programme to enhance cabin crew performance and safety standards. Cabin crew may at any time access remotely updated operating instructions and use One Device as a platform for continual training through microlearning to increase safety on board. The iPhone is available to Emirates Cabin Crew for personal use, and their data is secure. Apple devices meet the rigorous operational environment of the Emirates cabin crew because to features like quick charging, longer battery life, lightweight design, and high build quality. Additionally, Apple’s market-leading security shields customer and flight attendant data by utilizing the device’s security, securely verifying user identity with Face ID, and erasing flight data when the trip has been completed. The One Device rollout has been backed by an in-person experience zone at Emirates Headquarters in Dubai, which acts as a round-the-clock one-stop shop for cabin crew to get answers to questions about hardware and operating software, access support for Emirates applications, meet device accessory needs, and more. Source- Travel biz Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/emirates-provides-cabin-crew-20000-apple-devices-to-improve-inflight-services/

With the first Asia Pacific edition of the renowned creative industries festival beginning today, Sydney has become the first location outside of Austin, Texas, for an annual South by Southwest (SXSW®) event. From Sunday, October 15, to Sunday, October 22, SXSW Sydney will host more than 1,200 events and sessions, including a speaker lineup that includes Naomi Watts, Chance The Rapper, Charlie Brooker, the creator of Black Mirror, Baz Luhrmann, and Nicole Kidman, an actress who has won an Academy Award. SXSW, which is sponsored by the NSW government’s Destination NSW in collaboration with TEG, has a reputation for being the launchpad for what’s next, memorably giving young Billie Eilish her first international stage and serving as a pitch venue for Uber and X (previously known as Twitter). The festival will now take center stage in New South Wales, promoting Sydney as a hub for the Asia Pacific creative industries and uniting artists, tech innovators, musicians, and culture aficionados from the area and beyond. SXSW Sydney hosts a city-wide music festival, futurist think tank, game showcase, global premieres of movies and television shows, and an expo for cutting-edge technology. This unique event will take place at several places throughout Sydney’s CBD, including Darling Harbour, the Darling Quarter, Haymarket, Ultimo, and Chippendale. It will activate numerous venues throughout the city and support the entire visitor and nightlife ecosystem. John Graham, the minister of jobs and tourism, declared: “This week, straight from Austin, Texas to Sydney, our city will be the hub of the music, screen, gaming, and technology worlds as we open our doors to residents and guests to enjoy the first SXSW Sydney. I’m delighted that SXSW attendees will have the opportunity to see Sydney at its finest after hours, taking in music, ideas, and culture. This is the first time the Texas-based tournament has been staged outside of Texas. “SXSW Sydney will change the game for NSW. It is only the start of an unrivaled calendar of cultural events over the following months that will highlight Sydney’s own talent, creativity, culture, and natural beauty and attract tourists from all over the nation and the world. “SXSW coming to Sydney is not only a remarkable milestone for the event, it’s monumental for the global creative community,” said Colin Daniels, managing director of SXSW Sydney. The inauguration of SXSW Sydney, which departs Austin for the first time in its history, is a testament to the city’s thriving ecosystem and its relevance on the international arena. We can’t wait to meet you at SXSW Sydney, which promises to be a singular and remarkable experience for all attendees. Source- Travel daily Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/iconic-festival-sxsw-has-a-new-home-in-sydney/

In order to take advantage of the best US currency rate in 20 years, REALM Events, Asia’s fastest-growing DMC and event management company, and Unicorn Group, one of Australia’s most innovative event agency, have announced their strategic partnership. With a common goal to providing outstanding event experiences throughout the Pacific Region, including Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Islands, the alliance brings together two industry giants. Selina Sinclair, CEO of REALM Events, said, “This relationship marks a key milestone in our effort to extend the destinations that we can deliver solutions for our clients. We can provide clients with the top talent in the industry for event planning, design, and production, both within Australia and beyond the Pacific, thanks to our partnership with Unicorn Group. “We are thrilled to partner with REALM Events as together we can further enhance incentive and conference options in Australia and surrounding areas,” said Ron Anderson, CEO of Unicorn Group Australia. We want to demonstrate the numerous opportunities that Australia and the area can provide together. We are here to make sure guests are given the greatest experiences we have to offer since we are aware of the dedication and effort needed to draw people to our region of the world. We are here to make our clients and their brands become heroes, and our strategic knowledge will also align with crucial objectives on their behalf. The joint venture’s main highlights include: Enhanced Event Capabilities: The agreement will deliver a new level of creative event and experience curation to businesses ready to experience Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. It will combine the substantial event production knowledge of Unicorn Group with REALM Events. Expanded Network: REALM Events and Unicorn Group’s clients will get access to a wider range of event resources, including the greatest talent, vendors, and industry networks throughout Asia, Australia, and the Pacific. The joint venture strongly emphasizes sustainability and incorporates environmentally friendly procedures into the event preparation and implementation. Both businesses are committed to minimizing the negative effects of their events on the environment and advancing sustainability within the sector. The partnership between REALM Events and Unicorn Group embodies a vibrant symbiosis of creativity and strategic know-how that will influence events in Australia and the Pacific in the future. Both businesses are eager to demonstrate their combined strengths and offer audiences and clients alike fresh and engaging event experiences. Source- Travel daily Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/realm-events-and-unicorn-group-announce-strategic-joint-venture/

Thailand’s Samut Songkhram: Between Bangkok and Hua Hin, in a peaceful agricultural region of Thailand, sits the boutique resort known as Coconut Garden Retreat. The resort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and is surrounded by a beautiful green landscape. The ideal setting for relaxation and escaping daily stress is Coconut Garden Retreat. The 15-meter saltwater pool at Coconut Garden Retreat is one of its most distinctive features. The pool is ideal for swimming, tanning, or just unwinding poolside. The resort also provides full body and facial treatments, visiting massages, and a number of other activities including fishing and canoeing along the klong. Enjoy a wonderful outdoor barbecue that is a ton of fun for everyone (gas and charcoal grills are provided). The neighborhood market offers a wide selection of fresh seafood, while the neighborhood store offers a fantastic selection of wines, beers, and mixers. Full English breakfast is offered to guests staying two or more nights. The four-bedroom pool villa Coconut Garden Retreat is perfect for couples, families, and social groups. The villa is roomy and nicely furnished. The resort is the ideal place to unwind because it is situated in a serene region of Thailand. You can get in touch with Coconut Garden Retreat directly by email, Facebook, or Instagram to make a reservation. Additionally, you can reserve a room on Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, or VRBO. Here are four explanations for choosing Coconut Garden Retreat as your lodging: Swim in the saltwater pool to relax. One of Coconut Garden Retreat’s most distinctive features is the saltwater pool. The water is claimed to have healing qualities and is perfectly pure. Take in the lovely gardens and garden. The resort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and is surrounded by a beautiful green landscape. Stay at the four-bedroom pool villa, which is roomy and luxurious. Families, friends, and couples can all enjoy the property. Eat inside or outside.  Experience Thailand at its best. Coconut Garden Retreat is the ideal spot to unwind and get away from the bustle of daily life because it is situated in a tranquil and serene area of Thailand. For extended stays and tranquil out-of-town adventures, Coconut Garden Retreat is the ideal location if you’re searching for a quiet and pleasant getaway. Source- Travel daily Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/coconut-garden-retreat-a-peaceful-4-bed-pool-villa-oasis-in-samut-songkhram/

In order to transform the hospitality industry and achieve Saudi Arabia’s aims in line with its Vision 2030, IHG has opened a new office in the King Abdullah Financial District. This move is a part of the company’s larger growth plans in the Kingdom. One of the top hotel corporations in the world, IHG® Hotels & Resorts, is quickly growing in Saudi Arabia in line with the nation’s aspirational Vision 2030. As new brands from its global portfolio are introduced in the Kingdom, 50% of the Group’s current Middle East hotel development pipeline is headquartered in Saudi Arabia. The company’s emphasis on talent development and employment creation is consistent with IHG’s goals for expansion in Saudi Arabia. Saudi nationals make up about 1,700 coworkers, or 44% of the company’s present employment in the nation. IHG hopes to increase this figure by adding 6,000 Saudi citizens by 2030. IHG wants to be a major player in Saudi Arabia’s hospitality industry by making investments in local talent and boosting the economy of the nation. The recent inauguration of IHG’s Saudi headquarters in Riyadh, which has solidified the company’s role and expansion in the Kingdom, serves as another evidence of the company’s dedication to the KSA. Moataz Kurdi, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Tourism’s Deputy Minister of Policies and Regulations, attended the formal ceremony. The office, which is centrally located in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), a mixed-use financial area, will assist the company’s expanding presence and help the Kingdom establish itself as a major player in the world economy. The substantial expansion of IHG Hotels & Resorts within Saudi Arabia’s borders is a testament to the promising opportunities the Kingdom has to offer, according to Mahmoud Abdulhadi, Deputy Minister of Tourism Destinations Enablement, Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia. This dedication to market investment fits with our vision to establish a vibrant, investor-friendly environment with the goal of promoting economic diversity. In turn, this advances our realization of Saudi Vision 2030. “As we work towards the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030, including economic diversification, social progress, and cultural enrichment, we are strategically positioning the Kingdom to become a top global destination for travelers from all over the world,” said Moataz Kurdi, Deputy Minister of Policies and Regulations, Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia, at the occasion. Our shared dedication to Saudi Vision 2030 is reflected in IHG Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to this vision, which is demonstrated through the inauguration of their Saudi Headquarter in Riyadh. The Kingdom’s tourism industry will grow faster as a result of these actions, which will also considerably advance our objectives for economic expansion and development and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s standing on the global stage. “Saudi Arabia stands as a primary focus for IHG, and our decision to establish a stronger local presence in the country through the new country headquarter in Riyadh reinforces our commitment to this dynamic region,” said Haitham Mattar, Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts for SWA, Middle East, and Africa. IHG has put a lot of effort into creating business plans and strategies that support the vision of Saudi Arabia’s leadership in order to fulfill the nation’s aspirations for economic and tourism growth. With a strong economy, a rich cultural legacy, and rising visitor numbers, the Kingdom has numerous chances for the hotel industry to expand and flourish. IHG’s position as one of the top hospitality firms in the nation will be cemented by this crucial milestone in our expansion in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. “The opening of our new office in Riyadh signifies IHG’s expanding presence in the country, with half of our hotels in the Middle East pipeline set to open doors in the Kingdom,” continued Maher Abou Nasr, VP Operations, Saudi Arabia, IHG Hotels & Resorts. IHG is dedicated to becoming a part of KSA’s success story as the astute Saudi leadership ramps up its Saudization efforts to support local talent development. With 32 hotels already in the works and 40 hotels now functioning, Saudi Arabia is a strategic market for IHG in the Middle East. A Kimpton in the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), a Hotel Indigo property called Oxagon, NEOM, an MDA to open 12 “Next Generation” Holiday Inn Express hotels around the nation, and more have recently signed contracts in the Kingdom. Source- Travel daily Link- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/ihg-hotels-resorts-open-saudi-headquarter-in-riyadh/