Travel News

The Dubai World Trade Center will host the eagerly anticipated CTW Global 2023 Conference Program from September 18 to September 20, 2023. The top exhibition event of the year, CTW Global is focused on enabling B2B businesses and B2G organizations. It promises to provide unrivaled insights and tactics that will help businesses flourish in the fast-paced services sector.  The VIP speaker lineup for CTW Global 2023 is remarkable, with each speaker being a renowned authority in their industry. Numerous eminent people, including Faseeh Elahi, a founding member of the World Metaverse Council, Marianna Bulbuc, CEO and Managing Partner of Bizmoiss Group, Katik Bhatt, Chief Operating Officer of Sharaf Retail, and Dr. Arshi Ayub Mohamed Zaveri, CEO and Senior Advisor to Royal Family Offices, are among them.  These professionals bring a remarkable depth of expertise and experience to the table as they come from the Finance & Banking, Digital Commerce, and Sustainable Innovation & Technology industries.  Diverse viewpoints from professionals in the field Leading specialists from a range of industry sectors will talk at the conference, each offering their own distinctive viewpoints on important Service topics. In-depth discussions on important subjects such Special Economic Zones, Professional & Business Services, Digital Commerce, Sustainable Innovations & Technology, Supply Chain & Logistics, Art & Culture/Entertainment, and Finance & Banking can be expected from attendees. Attendees will receive in-depth knowledge and practical techniques from these recognized individuals for success in the services sector.  Engaging Sessions Created to Encourage Growth The schedule for CTW Global 2023 has been carefully planned, and it includes a wide range of sessions that are intended to cover important issues in the services sector. Several of the fascinating sessions are as follows:  Developing the Trade and Collaboration of the Future  Infrastructure for Mobility in the Future  Opportunities and Challenges of the Digital Transformation in Free Zones  Sustainable E-commerce Practices: Juggling Environmental Impact and Profit 5. Exploring the Synergy of Blockchain, AI, and the Regulatory Framework in the UAE Immerse Yourself in Innovation and Learning The CTW Global 2023 Conference Program ensures stimulating debates on subject matters unique to the sector, training designed to improve critical business skills, and engaging seminars on cutting-edge ideas and best practices. Attendees may anticipate immersing themselves in a culture of learning and innovation where they will acquire the skills and information required to succeed in the rapidly changing services sector.  Unprecedented Opportunities for Networking Throughout the event, there will be numerous opportunities for networking, allowing attendees to build relationships with other professionals in the field, possible business partners, and powerful decision-makers. The platform provided by CTW Global 2023 allows you to create lasting connections that could influence the direction of your company.  Sign up right away for CTW Global 2023! CTW Global 2023 registration is now available! Visit our website at www.ctw.global to register or learn more about the event.  A famous exposition, CTW Global is committed to creating innovation, building meaningful relationships, and fostering growth within the services sector. In order to study the most recent trends and tactics influencing the future of the services sector, CTW Global brings together industry experts, top professionals, and enterprises. CTW Global is dedicated to offering top-notch material and networking opportunities.  Source – Travel daily

The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023TM, which concludes with the final in Sydney, has been given Sydney the right to host the second edition of the FIFA Women’s Football Convention from August 18–19, 2023. The FIFA Women’s Football Convention, which takes place at the International Convention Centre Sydney, will welcome 1,000 delegates over the course of two days and is expected to contribute $1.2 million to the NSW economy. They will discuss the evolution of women’s football with football industry experts while showcasing best practices to further spur the expansion of the women’s game worldwide. Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, commented on the news, saying: “Women’s football is developing at a great time. The second FIFA Women’s Football Convention will be held at Sydney’s renowned International Convention Centre on August 18–19 in order to maintain the momentum created by the greatest-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup, which is breaking records on a daily basis. This Convention comes after the first one, which was held in France in 2019. But it is amazing to watch how far women’s football has come in just four years, supported by FIFA’s targeted funding through a global epidemic. To ensure that the historic accomplishments we are making in Australia and New Zealand are used to further advance the sport, as well as to ensure that this tournament not only motivates a new generation of female football players but also enables a new generation of leaders, I am looking forward to joining friends and colleagues from around the world of women’s football. “We can already say with confidence that this tournament is a gamechanger for women’s football,” said FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura. The crowds, the energy, and the caliber of the football we’ve already witnessed have been outstanding. At the Second FIFA Women’s Football Convention, which will be held on August 18–19, I am looking forward to reflecting on that accomplishment and making another significant step toward building on it. The second Women’s Football Convention, which follows the initial gathering in 2019, has received invitations from FIFA’s 211 member associations as well as other international partners. The evolution of the women’s game, the social advantages of football for women and girls, and the good effects it can have on female empowerment will be the main topics of discussion during the Convention. According to NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, the Hon. John Graham, this is the largest women’s sport competition in history. Locals and visitors from NSW have been showing up in record numbers to cheer on their teams at all of the games planned in Sydney. “The city is ready to continue celebrating women’s sport by hosting the FIFA Women’s Football Convention after hosting the Women’s World Cup.” “While the FIFA Women’s World Cup has been an incredible event to entertain global audiences and showcase women’s sporting excellence, the FIFA Women’s Football Convention 2023 in Sydney is where advancements in the business and the human sides of the world game will be made, creating a legacy to embrace, educate, and empower women around the world through football,” said BESydney CEO Lyn Lewis-Smith. Additionally, it gives Sydney the chance to highlight the sporting prowess of NSW and its capacity to host both the FIFA Women’s Football Convention and the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023. The FIFA Women’s Football Convention will feature a range of renowned and accomplished speakers from around the world who have been hand-picked for their role in enabling women and girls to realize their potential in football, sport, and society. Source- Travel daily

The most reliable airlines in Europe in July 2023 have been identified by Cirium, along with regional cancellation trends. Europe: Last month, Iberia was crowned the most reliable airline in Europe, with 80.75% of flights arriving on time. The second-place finisher was Finnair, with 79.82% of all flights arriving on time. The top five included Vueling, LOT Polish Airlines, and Norwegian Air Shuttle, which provide on-time performance on more than 74% of flights. None of the top 10 European airlines for punctuality were British Airways. Globally: With 85.30% of its flights reaching their destinations on time in July, LATAM Airlines was recognized as the world’s most punctual airline. With fierce competition for the second position, Avianca won with an 84.67% punctuality rating, slightly ahead of Saudia, which came in third with 83.76%. Fourth and fifth place went to Japan Airlines and Qatar Airways, respectively, with 83.39% and 82.67%%. Cancellations: As summer travel soared, there were 11% fewer cancelled flights within Europe in July 2023 (month-over-month). 9,231 flights inside Europe were canceled in July 2023, down from 10,401 in June 2023. With the exception of North America, where cancellations jumped 21%, every region of the world saw a decline in cancellations in July. Source- Travel daily

The second ship of the Prima Class and the much-anticipated new ship from Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the Norwegian Viva, welcomed its first passengers as it set sail from Venice (Trieste), Italy. The Norwegian Viva made its grand entrance into Europe when it set sail on its first magnificent nine-day voyage through the Mediterranean, carrying passengers from Venice (Trieste), Italy, to Lisbon, Portugal, with stops in some of Europe’s most incredible seaside destinations, including Salerno, off Italy’s picturesque Amalfi Coast; Cannes along France’s stunning Cote d’Azur; and Ibiza, Spain, in the Balearic Islands, among other outstanding locations.  Through November, Norwegian Viva will sail a number of must-do Greek Isles and Mediterranean voyages before repositioning to San Juan, Puerto Rico, in December for a Caribbean season. According to David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, “this summer, guests will have the chance to explore Europe aboard our newest magnificent vessel, Norwegian Viva, while enjoying its well-appointed spacious design, elevated experiences, expansive culinary offerings, and signature Norwegian Cruise Line hospitality provided by the best crew in the industry.” “Norwegian Viva’s tagline is ‘Live it Up,’ and I have no doubt that our guests will be doing just that while they cruise to some of the liveliest cities in Europe and the Caribbean during the ship’s inaugural season.”  The award-winning Norwegian Prima’s sister ship, Norwegian Viva, features standout onboard experiences like the Viva Speedway, a three-level racetrack; Indulge Food Hall, an upscale food market with 11 unique eateries; The Drop and Rush, the two fastest slides at sea; and the Metropolitan Bar, an NCL industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar. Prior to her official christening in Miami on November 28, 2023, Norwegian Viva will cruise a number of Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries following its initial voyage.The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio, “Saturday Night Live” cast member and Miami resident Marcello Hernandez, and singer Pedro Capó will all be present at the ceremony to formally name the Norwegian Viva, along with Luis Fonsi, a Latin GRAMMY® Award-winning musician.  From December 2023 to March 2024, the ship will be based in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and make calls at Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. John’s, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. Norwegian Viva will make a comeback to Europe in May 2024, where its Mediterranean itineraries provide an unrivaled chance to explore the splendor and culture of Europe. Travelers will spend less time at sea since they spend an average of 10.5 hours in port, giving them more time to explore. The ease and luxury of their world-class travel accommodations and the option to wake up in a new location are all enjoyed by guests as the ship ferries them from one stunning European city to another. Guests only need to unpack once.  Source – Travel biz

According to a French announcement, Indian students who have even studied there for a semester are now qualified for a 5-year short-stay Schengen visa. “France is of the opinion that when an Indian student studies abroad for even a semester, a bond is formed that should be nurtured and treasured. For this reason, Master’s degree-holding Indian students who have studied in France for at least a semester are qualified for a 5-year short-stay Schengen visa. According to the French Embassy’s official statement, “This is a special provision for Indian alumni to enable them to maintain close ties with France and their French counterparts.” According to the official announcement, applicants must have completed a Master’s degree or higher at a recognized university in India, France, or a third nation, as well as have studied abroad for at least one semester. These candidates will also need to submit a visa application that is properly filled out and complies with all standard Schengen standards. “Our teams are putting in twice the effort to put the choices made in Paris by Prime Minister Modi and President Macron for the benefit of students into practice. France has long been a welcoming and multicultural nation, keen to introduce Indian students to our rich cultural history and chances for top-notch education. The French ambassador to India, Emmanuel Lenain, gave the following message to Indian students: “France will always be your friend, and we will do all necessary to ensure you have an outstanding academic and life experience in our country. Source- Travel biz

A private island resort called Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi, located in the pristine Shaviyani Atoll, is a shining example of how luxury and sustainability can coexist together. With a new relationship with Global Green Journeys, the resort has increased its sustainability initiatives as part of its everlasting dedication to environmental responsibility and conservation. Global Green Journeys is an initiative that promotes scalable and sustainable methods for broad adoption while increasing awareness of effective global solutions. The team’s goal is to highlight various initiatives and activities that are catalyzing progress toward social, environmental, and economic sustainability. The Fairmont Maldives can develop, promote, and put into action more effective sustainability programming for a greener future thanks to this exciting relationship, which perfectly complements the resort’s fundamental values and vision. The pilot project, which is a component of the cooperation, focuses on the epidemic of plastic pollution and the technology created by Precious Plastic to address plastic recycling and produce broader socioeconomic advantages for the nearby communities. The project will offer special insight into the property’s on-site Sustainability Lab, the first resort-based recycling facility in the Maldives, and eventually add to a global dialogue on the significance of sustainability. Two celebrities visited the island resort as part of the pilot project to create custom goods out of recycled plastic and take part in a variety of eco-inspired activities, including a trip to a nearby school that helps divert plastic waste to the lab and is a part of the resort’s CSR School Education program, which aims to motivate the next generation to live more sustainably. As a result of its commitment to environmentally friendly operations and growth, Fairmont Maldives is the first Fairmont resort in the world to get the coveted Green Globe certification. The resort is the crowning glory of the idyllic island hideaway, and it has the longest infinity pool in the Maldives, which leads visitors to the Coralarium, which is home to a mesmerizing underwater art installation by renowned eco-artist Jason deCaires Taylor and the nation’s first coral regeneration project in the form of a gallery. The resort’s 120 opulent villas offer a seamless fusion of stylish, understated, Maldivian rustic charm, whether on the white sand beach, amidst the lush island jungle, or perched above the shimmering seas of the Indian Ocean. Source – Travel daily 

In response to increased demand, dnata Travel, the longest-running travel company in the UAE, has launched a second location in Sharjah to better serve its expanding community. The largest mall in the Northern Emirates, City Centre Al Zahia, is home to dnata Travel’s newest one-stop travel shop, which is open for business and where consumers can meet its knowledgeable, multilingual staff. Shoppers may reserve everything they require for a trip here, including flights, hotels, vacation packages, insurance, tours, attractions, transfers, and more, as well as staycations or more intricate itineraries. “We are seeing an increased demand for bookings within our travel stores, as UAE travelers seek to enhance the booking process with the insider knowledge and inspiration from our travel experts,” said Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel. We offer the ability to conveniently book every step of a customer’s journey at our locations around the UAE. We can customize a trip to suit their preferences and make sure they are aware of our most recent, special offers and value additions across a variety of fantastic resorts throughout the world. Following the opening of its travel shop in Dubai Hills Mall, dnata Travel Sharjah Al Zahia represents the next stage in the expansion of its retail footprint for the UAE. A pipeline of new retail locations is preparing to offer a wide variety of travel options to both established and expanding UAE towns. “We are enhancing dnata Travel’s long-standing presence in Sharjah, where many of our longest-serving employees and most devoted clients are located,” Meerah Ketait continued. As we strive to improve our retail network, it has been a consistent request over the years for our staff to further increase our presence in the Northern Emirates. We are excited to welcome clients to our brand-new store, where we have special deals and freebies planned to mark the occasion. For the opening of the Al Zahia store, dnata Travel is collaborating with Air Arabia to operate a number of special promotions based on the direct routes offered by the Sharjah-based airline throughout the summer. All customers who book a vacation with the Sharjah team during the month of August will also be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win a trip for two to Thailand, which is the travel agency’s most popular destination with UAE tourists for the summer of 2023. This will involve travel on Air Arabia’s newly added Bangkok route as well as opulent lodging at the five-star Banyan Tree Bangkok. Source – Travel daily 

Further demonstrating its dedication to preserving the environment with the “Fly Green Fund,” Thai Vietjet will hold the first-ever “Garbage Hunter: Scuba Project” on August 14, 2023, on Samae San Island in Chonburi, in the center of the Gulf of Thailand. Early in 2022, the “Garbage Hunter” squad was established with the goals of removing rubbish from various locations throughout Thailand, increasing environmental awareness among airline employees and members, promoting sustainability, and lowering waste and trash in the environment. In Thailand, including Phuket, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Udon Thani, and other locations, Thai Vietjet has successfully hosted more than 10 iterations of Garbage Hunter events since its founding. The most recent episode of Garbage Hunter extends beyond attempts to clean up the land, concentrating on the crucial job of eliminating rubbish from both beaches and even deeper this time, in the ocean, protecting marine life, and maintaining the environment. This will be a great chance for participants to engage in a variety of cleanup initiatives at Samaesan Island dive sites. “Thai Vietjet considers that as a provider of air transportation services, we are also accountable for environmental sustainability. Pinyot Pibulsonggram, Director of Commercial, Thai Vietjet, stated, “We have made a significant effort to reduce pollution from our everyday operations and have taken various efforts to safeguard the environment, lowering the cause of the global warming challenge that humanity has been suffering. The airline anticipates that by organizing a variety of environmental activities and working with other groups all year long, the Garbage Hunter events will be able to collect at least five tons of trash from locations in Thailand annually. The airline anticipates that in the following stage, in addition to the staff members themselves, the public and foreign tourists visiting Thailand will be invited to participate. Source – Travel daily 

For the first half (1H) of 2023, Jazeera Airways released financial statistics that showed total revenues rising 26.1% to KD97.85 million and operational profits of KD9.35 million. In comparison to KD 7.38 million for the same time last year, the net profit for the period was KD6.27 million. A “one-off” gain of KD1.73 million from the airline’s sale and leaseback of engines was also included in the profits for the previous year. Jazeera’s passenger traffic for the first half of the year increased by 40.9% to 2.1 million because to the high demand for air travel. Additionally, load factors rose by 4.1% in H1 to 78.1%. Marwan Boodai, the chairman of Jazeera Airways, announced the results and stated, “As we share our positive results for the first half of 2023, we remain hopeful and confident of our performance. There is a significant demand for travel, and we are happy to see that it is reflected in both the rising passenger volume and the steady load factors. We have already introduced a number of fresh, alluring places, and we eagerly anticipate introducing more in the second part of the year. In the interests of all of our shareholders, partners, and clients, we continue to put our whole attention on maximising our operational and financial performance through various products, services, and initiatives. The excellent cash position of the company was taken into account when the Jazeera Airways Board of Directors recommended an interim cash distribution of 28 fils per share, or KD6.16 million, for H1. Review of the 2nd quarter of 2023 Jazeera significantly increased their network in the second quarter of the year by introducing direct flights to Moscow, Samarkand, Larnaca, Shiraz, Belgrade, Tirana, and Tivat. Jazeera’s seventh destination in Egypt is now served by the airline, which also made history by being the first GCC airline to fly nonstop from Kuwait to Cairo’s Sphinx International Airport. In keeping with its expansion strategy, the airline added two more planes to its fleet and placed an order for more than 2,000 of the world’s lightest aeroplane seats to update its fleet. Each aircraft in the Jazeera fleet will produce a significant weight reduction of 1.2 metric tonnes, lower jet fuel consumption, and boost passenger capacity by adding a row of seats with these new seats. Jazeera Airways recently offered online pre-ordering from their Duty Free and On-Board shop with a focus on upgrading and improving product selections. 2023 Outlook Jazeera will be introducing numerous additional routes in the second half of the year to meet the needs of both business and leisure visitors. Jazeera Airways is on track to add three more aircraft to its fleet by the conclusion of the current fiscal year. These will assist in serving the airline’s quickly expanding network along with the extra destinations planned for the remainder of the year. Source- Travel daily