Posted on

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W1, January 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • IHG opens the first Staybridge Suites in France. 
  • Marriott acquires Dubai hotels, Saudi tourism rises, Wadama’s rally 
  • Sofitel Mumbai BKC: India’s 1st hotel with Green Key Certification. 
  • Accor grows in India and signs Grand Mercure Jaipur Kukas. 

  • Amal Group invests $315M in Phuket’s “Gardens of Eden.”

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read!

Newshound w1 January

IHG launches inaugural Staybridge Suites in France. 

The city of Cannes is now home to the first Staybridge Suites property in France. Staybridge Suites Cannes Centre represents the introduction of the all-suites hotel to the IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio in France. Staybridge Suites Cannes has been opened in partnership with hospitality management company, SOHOMA. 

https://shorturl.at/oJT39

Marriott acquires three Dubai hotels, Saudi tourism surges, and Spencer Wadama issues a rallying cry 

The past week has been marked by key developments, reshaping the hospitality landscape, from Marriott’s strategic move to take over three Dubai hotels previously operated by Emaar to Hyatt’s ambitious plan to expand its luxury hotel portfolio across Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar by 2025, even as we near the year’s end, the industry is witnessing substantial growth and transformation. 

https://shorturl.at/ckoX2

Sofitel Mumbai BKC: India’s first hotel awarded Green Key Certification 

Sofitel Mumbai BKC is thrilled to announce its prestigious Green Key Certification, bestowed by the National Jury Green Key India and the Center for Environment Education (CEE). As the inaugural recipient of this certification in the country, the hotel proudly stands at the forefront of environmental responsibility and sustainable practices within the tourism industry. 

https://shorturl.at/dsAJQ

Accor expands in India with the signing of Grand Mercure Jaipur Kukas  

Accor, a world-leading hospitality group boasting more than 1,000 properties across the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, has partnered with Shree Kamalam Elite Resorts Pvt Ltd, to launch Grand Mercure Jaipur Kukas, the eighth Grand Mercure property in India, a premium addition to its distinguished portfolio. Set to open in 2028, this upscale property will tailor an unparalleled guest experience in India’s foremost tourist belt.   

https://shorturl.at/pyHS6

Amal Group invests $315M in record Phuket property, “Gardens of Eden.”

Amal Group of Companies has unveiled Gardens of Eden on Bangtao Beach, a 11.68 hectare luxury wellness residential and hospitality community dedicating 70% of the land to open spaces populated with botanical gardens and active green areas. With an investment capital of USD 315 million, an inspiring vision of sustainability and well-being are at the core of the project, a clear indication of the growing maturity of Phuket as a multicultural lifestyle destination highly sought after by the international community. 

https://shorturl.at/bdvE0

That’s all folks!  

Posted on

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W5, December 2023

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • New restaurant: The Lounge at Radisson Riyadh Airport 
  • Saudi tourism hits $40B spend with record visitors in 2023 
  • TRIBE Milano Malpensa anticipates debut of TRIBE hotel in Italy 
  • A new concept for Bali tourism: health, wellness & advanced healing 
  • Experience sky-dining: a celestial culinary adventure 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound w5, December 2023

The lounge launches at Radisson Riyadh Airport 

Following the successful launch of its Lune restaurant, Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport is delighted to announce the opening of a new dining venue: The Lounge. The positive feedback garnered since the opening of Lune has not only established the hotel as a sought-after destination but has also driven significant visitor numbers to the outlet throughout the year.  

https://shorturl.at/bghlV

Saudi Arabia’s 2023 tourism boom: $40B spending, record visitors 

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector significantly increased in the first half of 2023. The total expenditure in the sector reached an unprecedented 150 billion Saudi Riyals (US$40 billion), according to the Ministry of Tourism. This period continued the upward trend from 2022, with total tourists numbering 53.6 million, split between 39 million domestic and 14.6 million inbound visitors. 

https://shorturl.at/jtvFQ

TRIBE Milano Malpensa anticipates debut of TRIBE hotel in Italy 

TRIBE Milano Malpensa is set to become the first TRIBE hotel in Italy. It is the ideal place for those looking for stress-free entrance to Malpensa airport. RIBE Hotels are for travelers of today – those who want a bit more for less. The hotel is for people who appreciate affordability, aiming for relaxed, aesthetically attractive hotel accommodation and social spaces. 

https://shorturl.at/lHT18

A new concept for Bali tourism: health, wellness & advanced healing 

In Partnership with the World Tourism Network, the Sharing Knowledge Initiative for Health & Wellness Tourism Indonesia will launch at the Cannabali meeting facility on Friday. Health and wellness tourism is the next big approach in Indonesia, specifically in Bali with the government creating two free zone health facilities with state-of-the-art facilities. 

https://shorturl.at/hjnrT

Experience sky-dining: a celestial culinary adventure 

Today, Fortune Ranjit Vihar, a member of ITC’s hotel group, touched a new and significant milestone in the Fortune Hotels’ brand journey by introducing its latest F&B proposition, Nakshatra – a sky dining restaurant. Making its debut at Fortune Ranjit Vihar, Amritsar, this rooftop sky-diner by the poolside promises an unmatched experience and a taste of celestial flavours, under the stars. 

https://shorturl.at/jqwX0

That’s all folks!  

Wish You All Happy Holidays and A Great New Year 2024 Ahead.

Posted on

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W4, December 2023

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • Seasonal magic at Four Seasons Baku: An enchanting atelier 
  • Georgia 2024: Luxe retreats & historic gems in hotels 
  • Celebrate festive delights at the newly opened Banyan Tree Dubai 
  • Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah re-opens its doors 
  • Hyatt arrives in Bodh Gaya: A new era of hospitality 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound w4, December 2023

Four Seasons Baku: A magical atelier for seasonal wonders 

This year, Four Seasons Hotel Baku invites guests to immerse themselves in a tale of festive wonder where every detail, from the special lobby décor to memorable dining experiences, is imbued with the magic of everyone’s favourite season. Four Seasons Hotel Baku has something in store for the whole family with an unmatched holiday atmosphere, world-class service, and unbeatable offers. 

https://shorturl.at/CDHQ9

Georgia 2024: Luxe retreats & historic gems in hotels 

Georgia’s upcoming array of new hotels in 2024 promises more than just a place to rest your head. From luxurious mountaintop golf resorts to historically restored mansions, here’s a glimpse of the diverse accommodations set to greet travelers in the Peach State. Fayetteville’s Trilith Guesthouse, part of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, opens in January 2024 at the entrance of the European-styled Town at Trilith. 

https://shorturl.at/guwAB

Immerse yourself in festive delights at the newly opened Banyan Tree Dubai 

Set against the breathtaking shoreline of Bluewaters Island and boasting a plethora of dining and recreational facilities, Banyan Tree Dubai is the ultimate escape for those seeking a vibrant stay overlooking the crystal-clear Arabian Gulf. From heartwarming Christmas culinary delights and spectacular New Year’s Eve revelries to tranquil spa treatments, charming afternoon teas, and so much more, Banyan Tree Dubai has everything in place for an unforgettable festive experience. 

https://shorturl.at/bcwCG

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah re-opens its doors 

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah has reopened after a major revamp of its 149 rooms and 54 suites, restaurants, event spaces, and lobby. Alongside the rooms, nine restaurants and lounges, extensive outdoor space for private events and weddings, and the resort’s six-metre Waldorf Astoria clock in the heart of the lobby have all gone through a refurbishment. The clock showcases a pearlised domed glass dial with an aquamarine centre, complemented by gold-plated Whitehurst seven-day mechanical movement. 

https://shorturl.at/knAZ4

Hospitality evolves: Hyatt establishes a presence in Bodh Gaya 

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the opening of Hyatt Place Bodh Gaya, the first ever Hyatt Place brand hotel in the state of Bihar and the ninth Hyatt Place property in the country. Developed by the Saraf Hotel Enterprise, the 74-guest room property features the Hyatt Place brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere, and practical amenities, such as Free Wi-Fi and 24-hour food offerings. 

https://www.hotelierindia.com/operations/bodh-gaya-gets-a-hyatt 

That’s all folks!    

Wish you all a Happy Holidays!

Posted on

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W3, December 2023

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • Dominick Hotel & Lizzie Fortunato: festive partnership 
  • Minor Hotels’ visionary safari deal in Zambia 
  • Radisson Blu Hotel opens in Jordan 
  • BWH Hotels introduces Tesla EV charging in North America 
  • Opening of Ramada by Wyndham Goa Vagator 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound w3, December 2023

Dominick Hotel Teams Up with Lizzie Fortunato for Festive Collaboration 

The Dominick Hotel is known for innovative collaborations with local artists. This holiday season, the SoHo hotel announces a festive partnership with local jeweler Lizzie Fortunato to trim in-suite holiday trees in dazzling baubles. Holiday guests at The Dominick Hotel have long been offered the opportunity to have an elaborately decorated tree waiting in their suite upon check-in, which is available to reserve beginning at $800. 

https://shorturl.at/ewHK8

Zambia Safari: Minor Hotels’ Visionary Deal 

Minor Hotels, an international hotel owner, operator and investor with more than 540 hotels in 56 countries in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe and the Americas, is pleased to announce the upcoming debut of its luxury Anantara brand in the African wilderness. Slated to launch in early 2025, Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp will be located in the expansive Kafue National Park in Zambia, the oldest and largest of the country’s national parks. 

https://shorturl.at/fmqJK

Radisson Blu Hotel opens at Amman Galleria Mall, Jordan 

Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) has expanded its regional portfolio by opening the Radisson Blu Hotel, Amman Galleria Mall. The hotel has 178 rooms and suites with authentic Jordanian-inspired details and is close to Swefieh Village and Wakalat Street, Amman Citadel and the Jordan Museum. Restaurants include all-day dining spot L’Olivier and bar and lounge Jade. 

https://shorturl.at/gBHM8

BWH Hotels brings Tesla EV charging stations to North American hotels 

BWH Hotels announced a collaboration with Tesla to bring electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to properties throughout North America, with plans to expand internationally. Beginning in 2024, BWH Hotels will begin installing Universal Wall Connectors at selected hotels across North America. With the recent launch of Tesla’s Universal Wall Connector, the charging stations will be designed to charge any North American vehicle model. 

https://shorturl.at/nCRU9

Opening of Ramada by Wyndham Goa Vagator 

M/s The Palace, a proprietary firm based out of Goa, announced the opening of Ramada by Wyndham Goa Vagator in partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,100 hotels across over 95 countries. Located in a prime area of Vagator, Ramada by Wyndham Goa, Vagator has green views and is at a walking distance of 1.2 km from the popular Chapora Fort, which is adjacent to the hotel. It offers quick access to Vagator Beach, which is less than a kilometer from the hotel. 

https://shorturl.at/BSY05

That’s all folks!  

Posted on

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W2, December 2023

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • Future travel trends: Sustainability, AI, and slow travel 
  • Indonesia is considering visa-free entry to 20 countries 
  • ATM 2024: Global market value to pass $1 trillion by 2027 
  • Marriott raises the bar with all-inclusive luxury resorts 
  • Lemon Tree launches its 10th property in Maharashtra 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound w2, December 2023

Upcoming travel fads: Sustainability, AI, and slow travel 

Travellers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) plan to increase their spending on breaks and holidays over the next three years. They will have more of an eye on sustainability than ever before. Most now check the sustainability of their travel plans and are prepared to pay over 20% more for environmentally friendly accommodation.  

https://shorturl.at/hinK2

Indonesia is considering visa-free entry to 20 countries 

Indonesia will consider visa-free entry to let more nationalities attract more tourism spending. It somewhat reverses earlier restrictions of the country’s entry rules. The government is proposing to add 20 countries to the list. It includes the US, China and India, said Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno after a cabinet meeting on Thursday. 

https://shorturl.at/dquCV

ATM 2024: Key trends shaping the trillion-dollar travel market 

 Attendees from around the world will explore opportunities spanning the full spectrum of travel and tourism – including leisure, business, luxury and meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) – at the 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) in the UAE from Monday 6 to Thursday 9 May 2024. Allied Market Research valued the global business travel market at $689.7 billion in 2021, predicting the segment to grow to $2.1 trillion by 2031.  

https://shorturl.at/hwzY0

Marriott raises the bar with all-inclusive luxury resorts 

All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy welcomed Marriott Hotels to its portfolio. Beginning in early 2024 with Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort, guests can connect with the local culture through experiences, entertainment, and hospitality. With nearly 600 hotels and resorts, Marriott Hotels has affected modern business and leisure travelers, which represents an opportunity to invite travelers of Marriott Bonvoy’s flagship hotel brand for all-inclusive trips. 

https://shorturl.at/pEPU8

Lemon Tree launches its 10th property in Maharashtra 

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited announces the opening of Lemon Tree Hotel, Dapoli. This is the 10th property of the group in Maharashtra. The hotel offers 50 rooms, Citrus Café – a multi-cuisine coffee shop, and Slounge – the hip recreational bar and banquet & conference spaces for all event requirements. It also has a well-equipped fitness centre and a refreshing swimming pool to keep you fresh like a lemon. 

https://shorturl.at/wxFRU

That’s all folks!

Posted on

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W3, November 2023

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details.

  • US hotels anticipate a busy holiday season
  • Regis Riyadh: Marriott’s 500th luxury property
  • Truffle week at Atlantis Dubai
  • Hotel industry trends and stats for 2024
  • IHCL now at Mumbai airport

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today.

Enjoy the read!

Newshound-w3-November-2023

US hotels poised for solid holiday season

The business outlook for US hotels remains strong for the remainder of 2023, thanks to an uptick in business travel and a healthy preference among business and leisure travelers to stay in hotels. The survey found that 32% of Americans are likely to travel overnight for Thanksgiving, up from 28% a year earlier, while 34% are likely to travel overnight for Christmas, up from 31% last year.

https://eturbonews.com/us-hotels-poised-for-strong-holiday-season/

The St. Regis Riyadh: Where luxury meets tradition

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts has opened The St. Regis Riyadh. The hotel marks Marriott International’s 500th luxury property globally. It is found at Via Riyadh, home to designer boutiques, restaurants and a luxury cinema. Situated at the entrance of the Diplomatic Quarter, the hotel is close to embassies and the central business district. The area has trails, palm trees, and plants from the surrounding valleys and deserts.

https://shorturl.at/AKNO4

Truffle week at Atlantis Dubai

This one is for the truffle fans… Atlantis Dubai and its esteemed culinary collection, which includes the likes of Hakkasan, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, The Royal Tearoom, and many more, will be celebrating Truffle Week with a series of exclusive menus from Friday, 10th November until Monday, 20th November. Guests can look forward to embarking on an extraordinary culinary journey as Atlantis Dubai unveils its exclusive truffle-infused signature dishes, available exclusively for 10 days.

https://shorturl.at/mxyIP

Sustainability trends in the hospitality industry

The spotlight shines on the group sales and meetings sector, which is anticipated to accelerate in the coming year. In the world of hospitality, group business isn’t just a segment; it’s a cornerstone of revenue potential for any hotel that effectively harnesses its power. Considering this, we’ve distilled the quintessential hotel group sales trends and statistics for 2024 you’ll want to embed in your strategic playbook.

https://www.hospitalitynet.org/opinion/4119148.html

IHCL is now at Mumbai airport

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) announced the opening of Ginger Mumbai Airport. The 371 Keys flagship Ginger Hotel, strategically located near the domestic airport, will introduce the brand’s lean luxe design and service philosophy of offering its guests a vibrant, contemporary, and seamless hospitality experience. The 371 keys hotel offers thoughtfully curated rooms designed to prioritize convenience and comfort, catering to the needs of both business and leisure travelers.

https://www.hotelierindia.com/operations/ihcl-now-at-mumbai-airport

That’s all folks!

Posted on

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W2, November 2023

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • New private island retreats to open in Saudi Arabia 
  • Luxury apartment hotel reopens in Denver 
  • Cross Hotels & Resorts shines at WTM 2023 
  • Race weekend luxury at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island 
  • Astor arrives in Goa 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound w2, November 2023

New luxury private island destination unveiled 

Red Sea Global (RSG), the multi-project developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations, The Red Sea and Amaala, has revealed Thuwal Private Retreat, an exclusive, buy-out-only island destination set to welcome guests next year. Located on a pristine 1.7-hectare sandy islet in a spectacular coral archipelago on the Red Sea coast, the intimate destination offers stunning natural beauty complemented by discreet architecture, offering ultimate luxury in complete privacy. 

https://shorturl.at/aiZ27

Luxury apartment-hotel reopens in Denver 

Mint House announced the reopening of Mint House Denver – Downtown Union Station. The property has apartment-style hospitality units in a highrise building, which just completed a property-wide refurbishment. Mint House Denver – Downtown Union Station’s new footprint has doubled in capacity from its previous iteration; from studio to two-bedroom options, the units will have up to three times the space of traditional short-term rentals. 

https://shorturl.at/befJO

Cross Hotels & Resorts makes waves at WTM 2023 

Cross Hotels & Resorts, a major hospitality business in South East Asia, has announced its participation in World Travel Market 2023, which will take place from November 6th to 8th at ExCeL in London, UK. Cross Hotels & Resorts seeks strategic relationships and sales possibilities at World Travel Market 2023. The firm intends to improve its position in the travel industry in the United Kingdom and worldwide. 

https://shorturl.at/xyGI4

Race weekend luxury at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island  

As the year’s most anticipated weekend, November 23rd to 26th, draws near, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island is set to deliver an array of exhilarating activities both on and off the track. Make W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island your home during this thrilling weekend, and immerse yourself in unparalleled entertainment. Nestled in the heart of the action, W Abu Dhabi offers the perfect vantage point to soak in all the adrenaline-pumping race action from November 24th to 26th. 

https://shorturl.at/afsv9

Astor arrives in Goa 

The Astor Goa redefines experiential luxury by launching an all-suite luxury boutique property nestled in the coveted Candolim area of North Goa. After a successful stint with the iconic heritage property of Kolkata, The Astor Kolkata, The Archer Hospitality group brings their flagship brand to Goa as a part of the strategic expansion of their portfolio. Poised to become one of the most popular destinations for the modern traveller, this boutique hotel is far from ordinary, offering chic and sophisticated experiences. 

https://www.hotelierindia.com/operations 

That’s all folks!       

Posted on

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W1, November 2023

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details.

  • Six Senses Southern Dunes opens in Saudi Arabia
  • ATM 2024 – Exploring a $1 trillion Tourism horizon
  • Motel 6 predicts U.S. Travelers’ increased holiday plans
  • Abu Dhabi welcomes 2023-2024 cruise season
  • Gangtok savours the introduction of ginger

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today.

Enjoy the read!

Newshound w1, November 2023

Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea officially opens in Saudi Arabia

The resort, designed by British architectural firm Foster + Partners, features 36 guest rooms and 40 pool villas with dunes and wadi views. The design intricacies, made using locally sourced materials, echo the vivid colours and patterns of traditional Bedouin attire to give guests a true sense of place.

https://shorturl.at/bnrwJ

ATM 2024 to explore travel and tourism with a $1 trillion market projection

Arabian Travel Market 2024 will continue to go beyond leisure, highlighting how business, luxury and MICE travel are impacting destinations, hotels and airlines. Revenue in the global travel and tourism market is projected to reach $854.7 billion this year, according to research conducted by Statista. The sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.42 per cent during 2023-27, passing the trillion-dollar mark within the next four years.

https://shorturl.at/krzD1

Motel 6 anticipates increased travel as U.S. Travelers plan holidays

Motel 6 found that U.S. travelers celebrating a winter holiday are planning to participate in an average of 10 or more gatherings this year. In its sixth annual holiday travel survey, Motel 6 heard from over 2,000 respondents who celebrate a winter holiday and found that their festivities are expected to lead to an increase in travel. This holiday season, 85 percent say the joy of spending time with friends and family outweighs travel challenges.

https://shorturl.at/jwIK3

The first cruise liner of the 2023-2024 season receives a warm welcome in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal encounters slate to have 126 calls. Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach will have 63 calls -the cruise season promises significant growth. AD Ports Group announces the official start of the 2023-2024 cruise season with the arrival of Crystal Symphony. It will dock at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal in Zayed Port. Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal is poised to receive over 7,000 visitors during Formula 1 Abu Dhabi, providing them world-class hospitality. It aligns with the group’s commitment to bolster Abu Dhabi’s event calendar.

https://shorturl.at/JRW06

Gangtok experiences the flavor of ginger

The 89-room hotel is strategically situated on Indra Bypass, just a short drive from the traditional business district and with easy access to major tourist attractions. The well-appointed rooms offer panoramic valley views. Ginger Gangtok features Qmin, the signature all-day diner offering global and local favourites, an inviting bar, a flexible meeting room and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. It serves as the perfect place for both business and leisure travelers.

https://www.hotelierindia.com/operations/gangtok-welcomes-ginger

That’s all folks!       

Posted on

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W4, October 2023

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • Saudi Arabia investing $800bn in tourism by 2030 
  • Sofitel Dubai The Palm enhances luxury with a signature collection 
  • Dubai Hospitality success, NEOM news, and Ajman tourism initiatives 
  • Sri Lanka welcomes Indian tourists with visa-free travel 
  • UAE hotel revenue surges 24% to $7 billion in 7 months 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound w4, October 2023

Saudi Arabia investing $800bn in tourism, targets 100m tourists by 2030 

Saudi Arabia is investing $800bn in tourism and looking to attract 100m local and international tourists by 2030, according to Minister of Tourism Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb. He stressed that the Kingdom is the fastest growing among the Group of Twenty (G20) countries in the tourism sector, as the number of tourists has reached more than 30m. 

https://shorturl.at/dnW16

Sofitel Dubai The Palm introduces a signature collection for elevated luxury 

Sofitel Dubai The Palm, the epitome of contemporary French elegance on Dubai’s renowned Palm Jumeirah, proudly unveils its luxury Signature Collection of bespoke suites and villas. This boutique hotel experience promises exceptional stays, seamlessly merging the French Riviera charm with the allure of Dubai. Sofitel Dubai The Palm’s pivotal expansion marks a significant milestone in the resort’s unwavering commitment to world-class sophistication, propelling it into unparalleled luxury hospitality. 

https://shorturl.at/BKMRS

Dubai Hospitality soars, NEOM project unveiled, Ajman tourism innovates 

The first expert panellists for our next Hospitality 3.0 conference can now be revealed. During the event, expert panellists will discuss topics such as tackling food and water waste, maintaining profits and quality while costs rise, the appetite for fine dining and making Abu Dhabi a year-round tourism success story.  

https://shorturl.at/tBDO5

Sri Lanka welcomes Indian tourists with visa-free travel 

Sri Lanka has announced visa-free entry for Indian tourists under a pilot project that has begun with immediate effect until March 21, 2024. The Sri Lankan cabinet proposed an e-ticketing system for most of the tourist sites in the country soon. Apart from India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and Thailand are also added to the list of countries in the pilot project, according to the announcement made by Sri Lanka’s foreign affairs minister.  

https://shorturl.at/brE58

UAE hotel revenue surges 24% to $7 billion in 7 months 

Hotels in the United Arab Emirates have seen a substantial 24 percent increase in revenues, totalling US$$7.08 billion, in the first seven months of 2023. This surge was revealed by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Head of the Emirates Tourism Council, during a council meeting. During this seven-month period, the country hosted 16 million guests, marking a growth of more than 15 percent compared to the previous year. 

https://shorturl.at/jmvM2

That’s all folks!       

Posted on

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W3, October 2023

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • Minor Hotels upgrades to Oracle Cloud to boost guest service 
  • Jumeirah Beach Hotel to host football camp in October 
  • Hotelbeds launches new group brand, HBX Group 
  • Exploring Leyja: NEOM’s sustainable tourism oasis 
  • Novotel Pune unveils its ‘Novolution’ rooms 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound-w3-October

Minor Hotels boosts guest service with Oracle OPERA 

Minor Hotels upgraded 100 of its properties to Oracle OPERA Hospitality Cloud. By moving to the cloud, the hotel owner, manager, and operator will be able to unify guest profiles across its global properties. This will help Minor Hotels understand its guests’ preferences so it can engage and serve. The roll-out of OPERA Cloud Property Management (PMS) is starting with Minor Hotels’ flagship, the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, Thailand. 

https://shorturl.at/djmJT

Jumeirah Beach Hotel to host football camp with Premier League legends 

Jumeirah Beach Hotel, the ultimate relaxed luxury family beach resort, has announced the return of the popular children’s camp, Football Escapes. The camp will run for two weeks this October and can be combined with a family staycation package which welcomes children to stay for free, promising savings this half-term break. A team of UEFA-licensed coaches from renowned English Premier League clubs supports the camp. 

https://shorturl.at/aDIKQ

HBX Group: Hotelbeds’ new group brand 

Hotelbeds has recently introduced HBX Group, its new group brand, to administer the B2B TravelTech company to its next growth and progress phase. HBX Group will go to market with an assemblage of first-rate B2B solutions, each with a clear proposal and target market that meets rising needs and DS and a varied client base in over 190 global markets. CEO Nicolas Huss said that as they carry on their alteration as a leading TravelTech company in the world, HBX Group streamlines their structure into four different brands under their new umbrella. 

https://shorturl.at/juwD1

Leyja: A new era of sustainable tourism in Saudi Arabia 

Saudi gigaproject NEOM has unveiled its latest development, Leyja, a sustainable tourism destination. Stretching from the Gulf of Aqaba to the west, the Leyja Valley will nestle between 400m-high mountains. In line with NEOM’s mission to designate the majority of its land as nature reserves, Leyja will preserve 95 percent of its land, integrating ecological design and construction techniques with the natural landscape. 

https://shorturl.at/oBWY1

Novotel Pune unveils its ‘Novolution’ rooms 

Novotel Pune celebrates its 10th anniversary with an exciting addition to its offering: the ‘Novolution’ Premier Rooms. Breaking the mould of conventional design thinking in the hospitality industry, Novotel Pune, under Accor India, has embarked on a journey to redefine the guest experience. The deluxe rooms, starting at approximately 290 sq. ft., are ideal for young bleisure travellers, exuding a youthful and trendy ambience that makes them a timeless choice for repeated stays. 

https://shorturl.at/FP056

That’s all folks!