Devina Divecha, Skift
If more than a month goes by without an acquisition or partnership announcement from Accor, does it even count? There are high expectations from the Middle East and Africa division in the wake of recent deals, especially from owners that may be anxious about potential disruptions.
2 weeks ago
Colin Nagy, Skift
Here are some of the most inspiring innovations in design, service, and guest experience in hospitality and travel so far this year. The more the industry can cross-pollinate, learn from others, and experiment, the better it will be.
2 weeks ago
Zainab Fattah, Bloomberg
The move is driven by economic interests, and the eligibility rules are still strict and the cap on permits is low. But it's good news for corporate leaders who do a lot of business in the region.
4 weeks ago
Vivian Nereim and Donna Abu-Nasr, Bloomberg
The loosening of social restrictions in Saudi Arabia has residents wondering if breaking the taboo on alcohol consumption could be next. That would surely go down well with the tourism industry and the grand Red Sea resorts the Crown Prince plans to build. Lots of international tourists and talent would drink to that.
1 month ago
Sarah Algethami, Bloomberg
The long-discussed first phase of the Red Sea project, with 14 hotels and an airport, is due in 2022. We'll believe it's not a mirage when we see it.
2 months ago
Richard Whiddington, Jing Travel
As Chinese outbound travel continues to rise, this high-spending segment is increasingly appealing to destinations worldwide. Deploying WeChat, China's No. 1 superapp, may be key for travel brands and destinations looking to unlock this market.
2 months ago
Dana Khraiche, Bloomberg
Saudi Arabia has lifted a travel warning on Lebanon for its citizens. Gulf tourists used to be the biggest spenders in Lebanon, so it's hopeful news for the beautiful but geopolitically unlucky country.
5 months ago
Hannah Sampson, Skift
Six Flags' big ambitions for international expansion are meeting economic reality. The theme park operator still finds potential in partnerships outside the United States, but expectations have to be adjusted.
5 months ago
Filipe Pacheco, Bloomberg
The economic slowdown and rise in the number of theme parks in the Gulf are among the factors keeping Six Flags from going full throttle in Dubai.
6 months ago
Archana Narayanan, Bloomberg
Dubai does not lack high towers. Here's another, and one that will provide events planners with more exciting venues. Roll it on.
6 months ago
Sarah Algethami, Bloomberg
Neom Bay would be seen by some as a feather in the cap of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who's accused of ordering the grisly murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi. Not to worry: Saudi Arabia's track record in completing mega developments like this is spotty, at best.
6 months ago
Ania Nussbaum, Bloomberg
Emirates doesn't always sponsor the best team – hello Arsenal – but it does focus on the ones with the fan base in the right demographic. The PSG split is more about politics than marketing smarts.
8 months ago