As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Makkah is preparing for an influx of pilgrims eager to perform Umrah. This year, significant advancements in facilities and technologies are reshaping the experience, particularly for elderly pilgrims, who often face challenges in navigating the crowded environments of holy sites. With improved planning capabilities and resources, the perception that Umrah is difficult for older individuals is steadily changing. These enhancements represent a vital shift in how the pilgrimage is experienced and administered, ensuring that every worshiper can engage in the spiritual journey with confidence and ease. Breaking Down Barriers to Accessibility Historically, the…
Author: Eat ‘N Stays
Strengthening Ties in Asia’s Hospitality Landscape In a significant development for the travel and hospitality industry, the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) has signed a strategic partnership with Tokyu Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd., marking its expansion into Japan, a move that underscores the country’s growing importance in the global tourism market. This collaboration not only enhances GHA’s reach in Asia but also enriches the offerings available to millions of travelers who frequent Japan’s diverse cities, renowned for their unique blend of tradition and modernity. A Robust Alliance GHA, recognized as the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, operates through…
Indian hospitality leader ITC Hotels Limited has secured four major titles at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading sustainable hospitality brands. The company, which today encompasses over 140 hotels across 90+ destinations, was voted: • World’s Leading Sustainable Organisation 2025 • World’s Leading Sustainable Employer 2025 • World’s Leading Sustainable Food & Nutrition Initiative 2025 • World’s Leading Sustainable Marketing Campaign 2025 The prizes were revealed in front of global leaders in sustainable tourism at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards Gala Ceremony 2025. The VIP reception was held at Terra, Expo City Dubai and recognised…
Dubai : In response to ongoing flight disruptions, Palazzo Versace Dubai is supporting travellers who may experience unexpected delays in the city. To assist affected guests, the hotel is offering a complimentary stay including breakfast, subject to availability and confirmation of travel status. The team remains in close contact with the relevant UAE authorities and continues to follow official guidance to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both guests and colleagues. Palazzo Versace Dubai is fully operational and ready to provide comfort and assistance during this time.
Dubai : One of the Maldives’ most exclusive private island resorts, Velaa Private Island, has unveiled a newly upgraded Ocean Pool House, marking a significant design evolution for one of its signature overwater residences. The transformation reflects a deliberate shift towards design-led ultra-luxury, positioning the Ocean Pool House as one of the most desirable private villa experiences in the Indian Ocean. At the heart of the project is Joy Alexandre Harb, principal architect and founder of JYH International Architects. Renowned for his contextual and human-centred approach, Harb’s architectural vision brings clarity, balance and flow to the Ocean Pool House, enhancing its…
Jeddah : Hyatt House Jeddah Sari Street has announced the appointment of Amr El Ebyari as General Manager, bringing a wealth of leadership experience in the hospitality industry to this pivotal role. With over a decade of experience, Amr has previously held key positions including Director of Operations at Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah and Executive Assistant Manager for Sales & Marketing. His expertise in these roles has consistently driven operational excellence, revenue growth, and improved guest experiences. A graduate of the Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Amr combines strategic management skills with deep operational knowledge. He is dedicated to…
This will Position Africa as a Premier Year Round Destination Nairobi : Kenya’s national carrier, Kenya airways (KQ), has partnered with European based TUI Airline Holidays, part of the global TUI Group, to relaunch KQ Holidays. The revamped platform offers travellers a seamless, end to end booking experience, combining Kenya Airways’ extensive global network with TUI’s established expertise in curated holiday solutions. KQ Holidays is designed to position Kenya as a vibrant, year round leisure destination through meaningful and well curated travel experiences. The platform emphasises sustainable tourism, authentic local engagement, and personalised journeys that reflect travellers’ individual interests, while…
Riyadh : As part of the cultural and tourism transformations aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, the museums in Mecca and Madinah have become vital components of an integrated tourism system designed to enhance visitor experiences while broadening their cultural and intellectual horizons. These museums have evolved into modern display platforms that leverage digital technologies, interactive models, and visual storytelling to present historical content more clearly and comprehensively. This approach caters to the diverse backgrounds of visitors, offering them profound insights into the civilizational and human context of these sacred cities. Additionally, the organized environments ensure a safe visitor experience, adhering…
During Ramadan… Bookings Rise by 20.67% in Makkah and 25.16% in Madinah Recent travel data reveals a notable increase in travel activity among residents of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during Ramadan 2026, driven by sustained strong demand for Umrah trips and family-related travel. Searches for accommodation in Makkah and Madinah have increased by 20.67% and 25.16% compared to the same period in 2025, with demand peaking during the second half of the holy month. These indicators reflect that Umrah remains the primary driver of Ramadan travel activity, with travel behaviour shaped primarily by spiritual priorities and family connectivity. This…
Event debut aims to strengthen its foothold in the region Abu Dhabi-headquartered STORY Hospitality will attend ITB Berlin for the first time from March 3–5 2026, marking a strategic step in deepening its engagement with European travel and investment partners. As one of the world’s largest and most influential travel trade shows, ITB Berlin brings together global destinations, hospitality brands, tour operators and investors under one roof in the German capital. For STORY Hospitality, whose hospitality portfolio spans the Middle East, North Africa and the Indian Ocean, Europe represents both a key source market and a region of selective growth opportunity. Across…