Qatar has been selected to host the 51st UN Tourism Regional Commission Conference for the Middle East, solidifying its position as a regional and global hub for cultural, economic, and political exchange. The conference will showcase Qatar’s expertise in tourism development, including the Hayya platform and the Qatar Tourism Awards. Collaboration opportunities in innovative digital and AI technologies will also be explored.
The sudden passing of Ebrahim Raisi, the Iranian President known as the ‘Butcher of Tehran,’ has sparked reactions and concerns, particularly regarding the Biden administration’s response. While Raisi’s death is unlikely to bring immediate changes within Iran, it presents an opportunity for the Biden team to reassess its Iran policy and ensure the safety of America, Israel, and the Middle East. However, the administration’s ‘condolences’ to the Iranian regime have been met with criticism, emphasizing the need for a more assertive and strategic approach to deterring Iranian aggression and supporting the opposition movement within the country.
Signum Hotels & Resorts, a rapidly growing hotel management company, has opened a new office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The office, located at 203 Schon Business Park, Dubai Investment Park, will serve as the central hub for the company’s operations in the Middle East.
Tribute Portfolio, a collection of independent hotels under Marriott Bonvoy, has opened its first Middle East property, The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle. Situated in the vibrant JVC neighborhood, the hotel offers an urban escape, blending city energy with beachside tranquility. It boasts 491 guestrooms, 26 suites, and a variety of dining, wellness, and leisure amenities. The hotel joins Marriott’s loyalty program, Marriott Bonvoy, allowing guests to earn and redeem points.
During the Future Aviation Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Eve Air Mobility and Saudia Technic have signed a Memorandum of Agreement to collaborate on Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in the region.
The United States has warned of potential sanctions against any entities considering business deals with Iran following India’s signing of a long-term contract for the development of Shahid Beheshti Port Terminal in Chabahar. The move marks a shift in US policy, as India had previously been exempted from certain sanctions for the development of the port. The deal is seen as a key part of India’s efforts to expand its trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia. However, the US maintains that sanctions on Iran remain in place and will continue to be enforced.
Intrepid, a leading responsible travel provider, has launched its first destination management company in Jordan, expanding its presence in the Middle East. The new team in Amman will operate Intrepid’s small group tours and plans to expand the offerings by 2025.
Amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, Republicans are taking action against President Biden’s decision to withhold weapons shipments to Israel. This move is seen as a betrayal of the U.S.’s long-standing commitment to its ally and is deemed to undermine Israel’s efforts to defend itself effectively. The GOP argues that withholding critical munitions, including precision-guided bombs, contradicts the Biden administration’s stated goal of reducing civilian casualties. This decision is also seen as fueling the conflict and empowering Iran-backed Hamas to continue its attacks. Republicans are pushing for legislation to halt this withholding and to provide Israel with the necessary support to defend its citizens and sovereignty.
Leading global hospitality company Minor Hotels has recently appointed Lokesh Kumar as its Vice President of Development for the Middle East region. Lokesh brings over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, particularly in developing and managing strategic business operations. He will oversee the growth of Minor Hotels’ brands including Anantara, Avani, NH Hotels, Oaks, and Tivoli in the region.
South Korea has positioned itself as a leading medical tourism destination for Middle Eastern travelers. Its advanced healthcare facilities, high-quality service, and cultural accommodations cater to the specialized medical needs and cultural sensitivities of patients from the region.
