Arabian Travel Market to spotlight luxury travel as global demand rises

Arabian Travel Market to spotlight luxury travel as global demand rises
Danielle Curtis, exhibition director ME, Arabian Travel Markets
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Updated 19 March 2025
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Arabian Travel Market to spotlight luxury travel as global demand rises

Arabian Travel Market to spotlight luxury travel as global demand rises

Arabian Travel Market is set to highlight the thriving luxury tourism sector when it returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 28 to 1 May. 

Bringing together top-tier hospitality brands, influential industry figures, and innovative travel destinations, the event will showcase the latest trends and insights that are shaping the high-end travel segment.

 According to McKinsey and Company, the demand for luxury tourism and hospitality is expected to grow faster than any other industry. This is predominantly due to the rising number of high-net-worth individuals globally and a growing segment of aspiring luxury travelers willing to allocate larger proportions of their income to premium experiences.

 The research suggests that luxury tourism and hospitality will reach $391 billion by 2028, up from $239 billion in 2023, with Asia gaining significant ground in the market segment.

Supporting this trend, data recently issued by the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab Countries of the Gulf revealed that GCC states earned $110.4 billion in international tourism revenues in 2023.

The largest share of tourists came from the Asia-Pacific region (38 percent), followed by the Middle East (25.1 percent), Europe (22.9 percent), Africa (8.8 percent), and the Americas (4.3 percent).

Danielle Curtis, exhibition director ME, Arabian Travel Markets, said: “The increase in inbound tourism from Asia and the growing wealth in this region create a major opportunity for Middle Eastern tourism, especially in the luxury sector.

“At ATM, Asia is among our fastest-growing markets for exhibitors, boasting a 27 percent increase in exhibitors from the region this year. National Tourism Organizations from destinations like Japan, Maldives, South Korea, India and Thailand are driving this growth, alongside regional tourist boards such as Rajasthan Tourism, Goa, Phuket, Hong Kong and Jakarta, all contributing to Asia’s expanding presence at ATM 2025 and the growing focus on luxury travel.”


Escape the ordinary: Celebrate Eid Al-Adha at Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Escape the ordinary: Celebrate Eid Al-Adha at Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Updated 2 min 14 sec ago
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Escape the ordinary: Celebrate Eid Al-Adha at Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Escape the ordinary: Celebrate Eid Al-Adha at Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offers an exclusive opportunity to celebrate Eid in a secluded island setting within the Ummahat Islands in the Red Sea. Surrounded by one of the world’s most untouched marine environments, the resort combines refined luxury with natural beauty. With spacious villas, uninterrupted sea views, and personalized service, Nujuma is designed for guests seeking a peaceful and private holiday experience.

An Eid Al-Adha celebration like no other

To mark Eid Al-Adha, Nujuma is inviting guests to enjoy a thoughtfully curated stay that combines elevated dining, family-friendly moments, and opportunities for rest and renewal. The seasonal offer includes:

  • Daily breakfast and dinner for two: Guests can delight in exquisite dining each day, including two signature experiences — Arabian Surf and Turf at SITA Restaurant on June 7 and a “beach dinner under the stars” on June 8 — creating an atmosphere of celebration and culinary delight.
  • Family-friendly elegance: Children aged 6–12 can join the festivities for an additional SR275++ per child, making this the perfect escape for families seeking a meaningful holiday together.
  • 20 percent savings at Neyrah Spa: Guests can rejuvenate with exclusive savings on luxurious spa treatments, tailored to restore and renew in a tranquil setting.

This offer is valid for stays from June 4–8, with a minimum three-night stay required. Guests can use the promotional code “E4000” to access the offer.

“Let Nujuma, a Ritz Carlton Reserve be the place where your Eid Al-Adha becomes more than a getaway — a time to reconnect with loved ones, reflect on the season, and enjoy the rare stillness of an island sanctuary,” a press statement said.

Tucked away in the remote Ummahat Islands along Saudi Arabia’s ecologically rich Red Sea coast, Nujuma is the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East.

This secluded sanctuary features 65 elegantly designed beach and overwater villas, each offering expansive living spaces, panoramic sea views, and private pools. Inspired by the natural curves of seashells and built with locally sourced materials, the architecture pays homage to the region’s heritage and environment.

Guests can indulge in curated culinary journeys across four distinctive dining venues, where modern gastronomy is elevated by thoughtful storytelling and authentic flavors. Every experience at Nujuma, from wellness at the Neyrah Spa, to stargazing and marine exploration is crafted to connect guests to the rhythms of nature and the spirit of Saudi Arabia.

With a deep commitment to regenerative tourism, cultural authenticity, and meaningful connection, Nujuma is not simply a destination — it is a rare journey into the heart of refined discovery.

For reservations and inquiries, please call +966 1-45040000, email reservations.nujuma@ritzcarlton.com, or visit the website here.


Naif Alrajhi, TGCC partner to execute landmark projects in KSA

Naif Alrajhi, TGCC partner to execute landmark projects in KSA
Updated 20 May 2025
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Naif Alrajhi, TGCC partner to execute landmark projects in KSA

Naif Alrajhi, TGCC partner to execute landmark projects in KSA

In a strategic move aimed at contributing to the continued growth and diversification of Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector, Naif Alrajhi Investment, a Saudi investment group and a leader in real estate development, financial markets, and mergers and acquisitions, has entered into a partnership with Travaux Généraux de Construction de Casablanca — a leader in the construction industry — through its Saudi subsidiary TGCC Middle East.

The partnership will collaborate on the construction of projects developed by Naif Alrajhi Investment within the Kingdom, underscoring the strong confidence and significant potential both parties see in the Saudi real estate market. This collaboration builds on the complementary strengths of both organizations and reinforces their shared commitment to contributing to the Kingdom’s dynamic growth.

Naif Alrajhi Investment is one of the prominent groups in the Kingdom, managing a diversified investment portfolio with a particular focus on the real estate sector. With a strong track record of successful projects both within Saudi Arabia and internationally, the company continues to demonstrate its extensive expertise and strategic vision in real estate development, further solidifying its position as a key player in the industry. 

Naif Saleh Alrajhi, chairman and CEO of Naif Alrajhi Investment

TGCC stands among the top-tier construction firms operating across Africa and the Middle East. With a proven track record of over 1,000 successfully delivered projects and a workforce exceeding 14,000 employees globally, TGCC generates consolidated revenues of more than 8 billion Moroccan dirhams ($867 million). The company maintains a robust presence in six African countries in addition to the Middle East and is distinguished by its international certifications in quality, safety, and environmental standards. In 2021, TGCC was successfully listed on the Casablanca Stock Exchange, marking a major milestone in its growth journey.

Naif Saleh Alrajhi, chairman and CEO of Naif Alrajhi Investment, said: “This alliance with TGCC Middle East aligns perfectly with our vision to contribute to the development of vibrant, forward-looking urban environments in Saudi Arabia and beyond. We are pleased to collaborate with a partner known for its technical excellence and reliability. This partnership supports our commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 by enabling the development of high-quality, sustainable projects that serve the needs of tomorrow.”

Mohammed Bouzoubaa, chairman and CEO of TGCC, added: “This strategic partnership represents a significant step in TGCC’s international expansion and demonstrates our strong commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s ongoing transformation. Through our collaboration with Naif Alrajhi Investment, and by leveraging their deep understanding of the regional market, we aim to deliver projects that set new standards in innovation, sustainability, and execution.”

The agreement reinforces Naif Alrajhi Investment’s strategic focus on impactful, high-quality developments that align with national development goals.

“With a shared vision of excellence, the two companies aim to contribute meaningfully to Saudi Arabia’s urban and economic evolution,” a statement said.


Mastercard names Saud Swar as country manager for KSA

Mastercard names Saud Swar as country manager for KSA
Updated 20 May 2025
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Mastercard names Saud Swar as country manager for KSA

Mastercard names Saud Swar as country manager for KSA

Mastercard has announced the appointment of Saud Swar as country manager for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan and other Levant. The appointment strengthens Mastercard’s leadership team in the West Arabia division, underlining the company’s commitment to serving as the region’s technology partner of choice.

Bringing a wealth of experience to the role, Swar will lead and manage Mastercard’s operations in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan and Palestine, deepening local market knowledge and engagement, and advancing efforts to connect and power an inclusive digital economy.

“We are very pleased to see Saud Swar take another important step forward on his professional journey with this exciting appointment,” said Adam Jones, executive vice president, division president of West Arabia, Mastercard. “Saud will no doubt play a pivotal role in advancing our work to empower the people and communities we serve across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Palestine with even greater access to a more accessible, secure and transformative digital economy. We look forward to him stewarding us to more success in the region.”

Swar said: “I am excited to begin this new chapter with Mastercard, making the most of my experience to complement and build on of the team’s achievements ... I am looking forward to working closely with our partners to unlock new opportunities, drive growth and create impact across the division and wider region.”

Swar has more than 17 years of experience working in the financial services industry. Prior to joining Mastercard, Swar spent all his professional career at American Express, initially joining the company as a new product development specialist in 2008, gradually rising the ranks to serve as the chief business officer — MENA for American Express Middle East. 

He holds a bachelor of science in computer engineering from the University of Bahrain and completed an executive MBA at London Business School.


Ajman university fosters healthcare innovation

Ajman university fosters healthcare innovation
Updated 20 May 2025
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Ajman university fosters healthcare innovation

Ajman university fosters healthcare innovation

Gulf Medical University, Ajman, reaffirmed its position as a leading hub for academic excellence and healthcare innovation with the success of the GMU Career Fair and Industry Partners Meet 2025.

Themed “Empowering the Next Generation of Healthcare Leaders,” the event brought together an impressive assembly of students, alumni, industry veterans, and more than 90 leading healthcare organizations.

It provided a vibrant platform for aspiring professionals to engage directly with recruiters, learn from thought leaders, and explore career paths across diverse health care sectors.

The initiative also showcased GMU’s ongoing efforts to align its academic vision with real-world demands through innovation, entrepreneurship, and global industry collaboration.


Sofitel launches limited-edition croissant collection

Sofitel launches limited-edition croissant collection
Updated 20 May 2025
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Sofitel launches limited-edition croissant collection

Sofitel launches limited-edition croissant collection

Sofitel has unveiled a limited-edition collection of its signature elevated croissants, available in seven properties worldwide.

The exclusive collection, La Haute Croissanterie Blossoms, features seven indulgent floral-flavored croissants which pay homage to the tradition and art of elaborate French floral arrangements in hospitality. The buttery delights give guests and locals the opportunity to discover native flavors; from Mexican dahlia to Beninese hibiscus and Korean cherry blossom, to be enjoyed exclusively in seven Sofitel locations globally, for four months. 

Inspired by the excellence and beauty of haute couture, La Haute Croissanterie concept was launched to elevate the art of croissant-making. Rooted in a perfected traditional French recipe and using precise proportions of pure butter and high-quality flour, croissants are enhanced with exclusive local ingredients of the highest quality — from Middle Eastern za’atar to Piemontese hazelnut praline and Korean Gochujang. 

Drawing inspiration from the timeless floral artistry of French luxury hospitality, La Haute Croissanterie Blossoms marks the brand’s very first limited-release collection, turning croissants into a gastronomic adventure where guests can experience local cultures like never before, designed by Sofitel’s pastry chefs from across the world and crafted using local flowers woven into the buttery layers.

  • The Floral Saffron 

Saffron and its violet-hued flower is considered one of the most valuable spices in the Middle East. This two-toned croissant features a round crust that’s filled with a pistachio sponge cake and saffron creme brulée — a creation synonymous with velvety luxury.

Available in Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk from 32 dirhams ($8.7).

“Creating La Haute Croissanterie Blossoms allowed us to elevate everyday experiences for guests by infusing creativity and flair into our pastries, using unconventional tastes to bring flavors from native flowers from around the world. The tradition of gifting flowers to celebrate special occasions is enjoyed across the world, so La Haute Croissanterie Blossoms felt like the perfect opportunity to treat those who mean most to us with a creative and delicious twist on the floral bouquet,” said Anne-Cécile Degenne, corporate executive chef, Sofitel.

La Haute Croissanterie Blossoms will be available for four months in seven Sofitel properties globally, starting from May. It marks the beginning of a series of limited-edition La Haute Croissanterie collections, with each to capture a unique and different theme, whilst honoring the elegance and excellence of traditional croissant making.