Dubai, UAE, June 24, 2017:  With the end of the school year upon us, many families will be planning to leave Dubai’s hot summer until the cooler start of the school year in September. Dr Sara Elliott, at British Veterinary Hospital in Dubai, explains the restrictions pet owners will face with the increase in travel plans for pets. She said: “With the inevitable mass exodus over the summer we always have a huge increase of enquiries about pet travel arrangements. While it’s wonderful for your pets to be able to enjoy the great outdoors with mum, dad and the kids, there are some key elements pet owners need to be aware of from both a health and safety perspective for their pet as well as a legal one. Ideally pet owners will have planned in advance and pets will have been sent ahead in April or May, especially ......read more

22 June 2017   Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and China Southern Airlines, Asia’s largest airline, have announced a new codeshare partnership, which comes into effect on 22 June 2017. This increases the number of codeshare agreements operated by the Abu Dhabi-based airline to 53.  Under the agreement, China Southern Airlines will put its 'CZ' code on Etihad Airways’ daily services between Beijing (PEK)/Shanghai (PVG)/Chengdu (CTU) and Abu Dhabi.  The codeshare partnership will give China Southern guests the opportunity to book codeshare flights to and from Abu Dhabi, and connect onto Etihad’s network of over 100 destinations worldwide.   Mohammad Al Bulooki, Etihad Airways’ Executive Vice President Commercial, said: “The codeshare ......read more

22 June 2017 New ‘Neighbour-Free Seat’ paid option in Economy Class Premium Lounge access now a paid option for Economy Class  Business Class paid upgrade for First Class Lounge and Spa access Chauffeur services for Business and First Class to become a paid option at all international destinations Economy Class guests now able to pay for Etihad Chauffeur services Continued complimentary chauffeur services in Abu Dhabi for all eligible Business and First Class guests Etihad Airways is introducing a series of changes designed to offer increased value and flexibility based on customer feedback.  The airline is to amend its chauffeur policy following a review of usage by premium guests across all major markets. The complimentary chauffeur service will be retained at Etihad Airways’ Abu ......read more

Personal Arabic shopping assistant in the summer months From July 24 up to and including September 10, 2017, Munich Airport will offer Arabic-speaking personal shopping assistants on request in Terminal 2. They will be available to bridge any cultural or language gaps between passengers and the personnel serving them in airport shops. The native Arabic speakers can also guide travelers through the Terminal 2 shopping world and provide detailed information on offers and products. The service will be free of charge for passengers, and is intended to provide them with a pleasant shopping experience. The shopping assistants can also help in case of questions on sales tax refunds or customs formalities. They will be easy to spot by their uniform with the embroidered text "Arabic Shopping Assistant". All shops in Terminal 2 ......read more

21 June 2017  The peak summer travel period is fast approaching with many travellers making plans for trips home or on holiday. The combination of the Eid public holiday, school break and the summer season means that 22 June to 24 August will be a particularly busy time at Abu Dhabi International Airport, with up to 3.3 million guests flying with Etihad Airways across the network over the next two months. To make sure that our guests enjoy a convenient travel experience during this busy period, we have a number of travel tips and reminders to save time. With the Etihad Airways mobile app, guests can check in 49 hours before departure and download an electronic boarding pass. The app is free to download on iOS and Android, and has a host of features including preferred seat selection and a live flight tracker. Online ......read more

21 June 2017 Airline wins three major awards for its industry-leading First Class at the annual World Airline Awards  Etihad Airways has once again been presented with three coveted awards for the World’s Best First Class, Best First Class Onboard Catering, and Best First Class Airline Seat at the annual Skytrax World Airline Awards. The event was held at the Musee de l’Air et de l’Espace, as part of the bi-annual Paris Airshow. The prestigious World Airline Awards are widely considered to be a global benchmark of airline excellence. Winners are chosen based on the votes and findings of a ten month survey of over 19 million air travellers from 105 countries. The survey covers over 325 airlines, from the largest international airlines to smaller domestic carriers, measuring quality standards for 41 KPIs ......read more

Dubai, UAE, June 20, 2017:  Etihad Airways has been given a top rating by London’s Heathrow Airport for its emissions and night-time noise performance during the first three months of 2017. The “Fly Quiet and Clean” League Table, the first of its kind to be produced by the airport, placed the UAE’s national airline among the top carriers for operating the cleanest and quietest fleets. The top rating recognition is the result of a programme of disciplined flying by Etihad Airways’ Operations which strictly manages airport approaches and departures, as well as adhering to air traffic control instructions and procedures. Rick Allen, Senior Vice President Operations at Etihad Airways, said: “In addition to safety, our pilots are trained to focus on efficient flying, especially into busy ......read more

-         Aerospace leaders to return to UAE capital to tackle industry challenges   -         Future of aerospace to be assessed at time of international unpredictability 19 June 2017 - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: 1,000 of the world’s aerospace, space and defence industry leaders will define the future of their sectors when they return to Abu Dhabi for the fourth edition of the Global Aerospace Summit 2018.  Corporate, government and military strategies will be marked out at the Summit, which will address some of the key challenges facing the aerospace industry and discuss future trends at a time of international uncertainty.  A range of important issues will be assessed, such as the future of aircraft and new technologies that will revolutionise manufacturing, as ......read more

Ajman – UAE, June 20, 2017:  Thanani, the contemporary restaurant in Ajman’s serene Al Zorah pavilion hosted the official opening event of the ‘Zayed Humanitarian Day’ launched by Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD). The initiative which is aimed at training and integrating people of determination in the government and tourism sectors across Ajman commenced with a hearty and delectable Iftar served on the evening at Thanani who were also the official sponsors of the event. The initiative was launched under the patronage of Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Tourism Development Department and is in line with the ATDD’s initial CSR plans and programs. Through this the department aims to fulfil its responsibility towards the community, contributing to integrate ......read more

Exhibitor Commitments and Interest High Dubai, UAE. 19 June 2017:  The new features taking place at the Dubai Airshow 2017 including new sector specific pavilions, Space Pavilion, UAV Summit, Cargo Zone and the return of Airport Solutions, are set to bring focus to new market sectors when the show opens in November. The Space Pavilion and conference in particular is shaping up to be a key feature of the event, produced in partnership with the UAE Space Agency. Space exploration is a national priority for the UAE and this new feature has been developed to support the government’s strategic objectives of building the region’s space sector. Exhibitors from around the globe are keen to be part of this growing market with Spanish Aistech and Russian Reshtenev among those already committed to exhibiting.  With ......read more

Dubai, UAE, June 17, 2017:  Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and one of the main sponsors of the Taste of London Festival, has crowned Dean Parker from The Manor restaurant in London, winner of its Taste the World competition. The competition took place on 15th June. The Taste the World Award is presented to one chef who best epitomises Etihad Airways’ food philosophy, a highly-acclaimed culinary offering which constantly pushes the boundaries to provide a superior guest experience. Each chef was independently judged by a panel consisting of an Etihad Airways Inflight Chef, a culinary expert and a renowned food influencer. The winner earns a trip to the global final to represent London and The Manor at Taste of Abu Dhabi, in November. Dean will compete against 11 other world class chefs ......read more

Dubai, United Arab Emirates (June 15, 2017):  Arjaan by Rotana, a popular hotel apartments property located in the heart of Dubai Media City, recently hosted an exclusive Iftar for members of the media fraternity in Dubai.  More than 20 media personnel ranging from travel publications, dailies and lifestyle publications shared a moment of togetherness in the holy month. The locally-grown hospitality brand is guided by the values of nurturing lifelong relationships over time and engaging with its stakeholders - from guests and investors to media. Media provides Arjaan by Rotana a dynamic vehicle to communicate with its target audience by sharing topical information, key developments and valuable insights for the brand and the hospitality industry at large.  Mr. Ayman Ashor, General Manager of Arjaan by Rotana, said: ......read more

Treat kids to some soaking wet play at Splash ‘n’ Party - Dubai’s favourite Kids waterpark. With the kid’s holiday break fast approaching and hours of recreational time needing to be filled, Splash ‘n’ Party offers an array of fun-filled water based activities and engaging onsite entertainment all guaranteed to keep active little ones amused. Fathers Day – 18th June, 2017 With Father's Day on June 21st, we've got a special treat for every kid's favourite superhero. Might sound like a present for Mommy to relax, the splash-tastic fun will begin at 9am and end at 8pm. Fathers can enter for absolutely no cost at all, and entry for kids will cost AED 50 each. Activities include entertainment, Pizza making and water activities. Eid Carnival - June 25th - July 1st This Eid, Splash ......read more

Two weekly flights connecting Sharjah and Hargeisa starting July 4th   Sharjah, UAE; 14 June 2017:  Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC), announced today that starting 4 July 2017, Hargeisa will be the newest African destination added to its growing international network.  Air Arabia marked its entry into the African market in 2004, and currently serves six destinations across Egypt, Sudan and Kenya from its main hub in Sharjah. The new flights to Hargeisa, Somaliland will operate twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays, departing Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) at 03:45 hours, and arriving at Hargeisa Egal International Airport (HGA) at 06:15 local time. The return flight will depart Hargeisa at 06:55, landing in Sharjah at 11:25 local ......read more

2016 saw 24% growth in the total number of international meetings over 2015, according to UIA rankings. 138% growth achieved since 2012 Dubai, United Arab Emirates: 13 June 2017: Dubai has emerged as one of the top 10 destinations for international meetings, according to the latest edition of the International Meetings Statistics Report published last week by Union of International Associations (UIA). The report ranked 1,157 cities globally based on the total number of international meetings that took place during the year. Previously ranked 14th in the 2015 edition, Dubai has moved up the list to claim the 10th spot with a total of 180 meetings taking place in 2016, reflecting a growth of 24% in comparison to 2015. Dubai is the only city in the Middle East and Africa to appear in the top 25 in the rankings, further ......read more

Explore the salty winds of Galle, the never-ending Samui sunsets, and the culturally diverse Kuala Lumpur Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 11th June 2017:  The Eid holidays are the perfect occasion to relax and spend time with family.   The extended weekend is the best time to pack your bags and go abroad to escape the summer temperatures and the maddening city life. To avoid burning last minute holes in your pocket, stay smart and pre-plan your Eid vacation to these top budget-friendly getaways. From the laid back serenity of Galle to the iconic views of Kuala Lumpur, there is an exciting adventure waiting to be enjoyed. Prominent Asian direct selling company QNET, through its travel and holiday services called Q-breaks and tripsavr, gives you the chance to visit these spectacular destinations with great ......read more

Great news for Cebu Pacific passengers flying out of Dubai! The Philippines’ largest carrier celebrates Philippine Independence Day by giving all passengers the freedom to bring more gifts and ‘pasalubong’ for their loved-ones as Cebu Pacific offers a total baggage allowance that exceeds a typical ‘balikbayan box.’ CEB extends its promo granting its valued guests additional baggage allowance free-of-charge. Until November 30, 2017, all passengers originating from Dubai travelling to Manila who pre-purchase a 40-kilogram baggage allowance will get an extra 25 kilograms absolutely free! The extra baggage allowance will be given upon check-in at the airport. A 40-kg baggage allowance on Cebu Pacific costs between AED 320-350. What’s more, the total 65 kilogram baggage allowance will be carried-over ......read more

Dubai, UAE, June 8, 2017:  Leading Philippine carrier Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB) has placed an order with Airbus for an additional seven A321CEO (Current Engine Option) aircraft, for delivery from March 2018. The aircraft will meet the airline’s increased capacity requirements pending the start of delivery of 32 A321NEO aircraft, which will now begin in 4TH quarter of 2018. CEB has chosen to defer the A321NEO deliveries due to delays with the Pratt & Whitney engines selected to power the aircraft. “We have decided to take a conservative approach to the introduction of the A321NEO into our operations. We remain confident that Pratt & Whitney will address all issues on the GTF (Geared Turbo Fan) engine. There is, however, the need to increase our current capacity to meet growing domestic and regional network ......read more

Dubai, UAE, June 8, 2017:  Etihad Aviation Group confirms that it has terminated negotiations with TUI AG, in relation to a potential joint venture involving the leisure operations of Air Berlin Group and the German TUIfly company. Etihad has taken this decision following many months of negotiations, in good faith, during which time the parties have been unable to reach agreement on the final nature of such a joint venture. The leisure operations of Air Berlin group will now continue to operate as a separate business unit, under the NIKI brand.  Further details of this structure will be announced in due course by Air Berlin. NIKI’s operating schedule remains unchanged with all bookings being honoured.  Customers should contact NIKI directly for any further information.

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Dubai, UAE, June 8, 2017:  VFS Global, the world’s leading technology and outsourcing services company for visa processing, has launched special offers providing visa applicants with just the convenience they are looking for this Ramadan. From extended working hours to special discounts, VFS Global’s Ramadan offers on its specialised services ensures applicants in the United Arab Emirates experience a level of comfort and ease like no other! Ramadan special offers for VFS Global applicants (applicable from 25 May to 28 June 2017) include: Extended working hours at the Visa Application Centre in Wafi Mall Dubai During the month of Ramadan, the Visa Application Centre in Wafi Mall, Dubai will operate for extended working hours from 06:00 pm to 09:00 pm for greater convenience and ease to applicants. Applicants can ......read more

Dubai, UAE, June 7, 2017:  The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Qantas will host the 74th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit. The event will attract the top leadership of the air transport industry to Sydney, Australia, from 3 5 June 2018. “Sydney is an excellent choice to become the capital of the global air transport industry in June 2018. I am confident that Qantas will be an excellent host, as they were when we last met there in 2000. Australia’s pioneering tradition on aviation matters carries on to this day with competitive airlines, effective air traffic management and a commitment to Smarter Regulation. As a result, aviation keeps Australia connected to the world. And those links contribute greatly to the country’s prosperity. I am sure that we ......read more

6 June 2017 (Dubai, UAE) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) 73rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) approved a resolution calling for governments to implement policies to accelerate the deployment of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). The Resolution also reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to work with governments to implement the Carbon Offset and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) global CO2 emissions agreement.  “The CORSIA agreement is a vital part of our strategy on combatting aviation emissions. We are committed to carbon neutral growth from 2020 and to cutting net emissions to half 2005 levels by 2050. While offsetting is critical to managing emissions in the short-term, in the long-term we rely on clean technology improvements to achieve our goals. Sustainable aviation fuels are ......read more

6 June 2017 (Dubai, UAE) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) revised its 2017 industry profitability outlook upwards. Airlines are expected to report a $31.4 billion profit (up from the previously forecast $29.8 billion) on revenues of $743 billion (up from the previously forecast $736 billion).  “This will be another solid year of performance for the airline industry. Demand for both the cargo and passenger business is stronger than expected. While revenues are increasing, earnings are being squeezed by rising fuel, labor and maintenance expenses. Airlines are still well in the black and delivering earnings above their cost of capital. But, compared to last year, there is a dip in profitability,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO. In 2017 airlines are expected to ......read more

6 June 2017 (Dubai, UAE) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) 73rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) adopted a resolution reaffirming the airline industry’s commitment to safety and security. It also called for greater collaboration among all government and industry stakeholders to keep flying secure with risk mitigation measures that maximize the protection of passengers and crew while minimizing disruption to passengers and the economy at large.  “Aviation is a target for terrorists intent on destroying the freedom that is at the heart of our business. Information sharing among governments and with the industry is the key to staying a step ahead of emerging threats. We have the same goals—to keep passengers and crew safe. So it only makes sense that we work together as closely as ......read more

Dubai, UAE, June 6, 2017:  The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that the global airline industry’s performance on safety, sustainability and profitability is solid, but the industry faces the threat of protectionist measures being implemented by governments. IATA also called for governments to enhance their collaboration with the industry to meet rising security challenges, avert a looming infrastructure crisis and to build smarter regulation.   The Director General’s Report on the Global Air Transport Industry was delivered to the 73rd IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit. The event opened today and has gathered 1,000 industry leaders and stakeholders in Cancun, Mexico.  Highlights from de Juniac’s address include: Industry Financial Performance: ......read more