Astral Aviation Boeing 757F Operates Nairobi’s 1st Direct Cargo Service To Tel Aviv

Africa’s leading cargo carrier is expanding its international operations with a direct service between Kenya and Israel. Kenya-based Astral Aviation has launched the first direct service between Nairobi and Tel Aviv. The flight was operated on a Boeing 757 freighter, transporting 27 tons of Pineapples and Nile Perch fillets to the Middle East.

It is a significant milestone for the airline and all stakeholders involved. The new service is essential for Kenya, Israel, and the global trade industry, as it facilitates the efficient transportation of goods and sets a precedent for more mutually beneficial partnerships.

A route celebrated by all

Kenyan President William Ruto formally announced the direct service from Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta Airport (NBO) to Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) at last month’s investor roundtable in Israel. It is a significant step toward strengthening Africa-Middle East trade.

The inauguration was celebrated by various stakeholders, including Astral CEO Sanjeev Gadhia, Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Managing Director Alex Gitari, Kenya Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Mithika Linturi, and Israel in Kenya ambassador Michael Lotem. The ambassador said,

“Nairobi is the cargo hub in Africa. We Israelis thank Astral Aviation and Sanjeev Gadhia and look forward to enjoying more Kenyan products. Hope to see this followed by passenger flights. Bravo, Astral, for your vision and business skills.”

Kenya’s imports and exports contribute to about 30% of the GDP. Agricultural products, which include fruits and vegetables, tea, coffee, and tobacco, are the most exported. Other exports include textiles and raw materials, so this new route will be essential for the country’s export earnings.

Enhanced cargo operations

In addition to Nairobi, Astral has other hubs in Dubai, Johannesburg, and Leige. From there, it operates more cargo flights than any other African carrier with 767-200F, 757-200F, 747F, 727-200F, DC-9 Freighter, and Fokker 50F aircraft. In 2023, it won the Africa All Cargo Carrier of the Year award.

Earlier this year, at the Air Cargo Africa event in South Africa, a new carrier Suid Cargo was launched. It would begin operations from Johannesburg Or Tambo (JNB) with Astral’s Boeing 727F. Astral would also offer Suid Cargo its 747-400F, 757F, and 767F on a charter basis to allow the startup to cover operations in South, West, and East Africa.

The Kenyan carrier also plans to launch three subsidiaries to increase its presence in the global market. Sanjeev Gadhia disclosed plans to divest about 70% of shares in Astral to invest in new AOCs in Australia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Taking advantage of partnerships

According to ch-aviation, the European AOC would come in 2025, with Ireland and Malta as potential markets. This will be followed by the Middle Eastern AOC and potentially Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Asia. Astral is also looking at a potential AOC in Lomé, Togo, which already operates as its West African hub.

February’s Air Cargo Africa Expo introduced a new cargo carrier, expected to launch in Q2 2023. Astral Aviation was at Air Cargo Europe last month and will attend AviaDev Africa next week to continue taking advantage of these partnership opportunities.

Partnerships are essential as African aviation stakeholders are launching various initiatives to increase connectivity and enhance aviation’s contribution to Africa’s socio-economic development.

SOURCE: Simple Flying

Dubai DET Commits to Sustainable Global Tourism Status

As the world yesterday united on 5 June to commemorate World Environment Day and encourage awareness and action for the protection of the environment, Dubai has reiterated its pledge to advancing efforts to promote sustainability and responsible tourism.

In the bustling metropolis of Dubai, which is home to a thriving and vibrant tourism industry, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has established itself as a prominent entity leading the charge in environmental conservation. With a resolute commitment to sustainability, the Department has spearheaded a multitude of pioneering strategic initiatives aimed at protecting the environment and forging a greener and more sustainable future for the city’s tourism sector.

Dubai Can

One of the unique initiatives DET has launched to reduce single use plastic consumption is the Dubai Can. Since its launch in February 2022 by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the citywide sustainability movement has achieved extraordinary success. The transformative programme empowers communities to reduce their reliance on single-use plastic bottles and embrace sustainable alternatives. To date, the collaborative efforts of Dubai Can and its partnership with Talabat have yielded extraordinary results, with a reduction of over 10 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles. This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to the resounding success of the initiative and the unwavering dedication of the local community, stakeholders and partners involved.

By encouraging simple changes such as adopting the culture of using refillable water bottles and utilizing public water stations, residents and visitors alike are urged to adopt a ‘refill for life’ mindset, as well as implement this practice in their households and offices. With 50 strategically placed public water fountains across the city, Dubai is leading the charge in championing a refill culture, resulting in a substantial reduction of millions of single-use plastic water bottles.

Dubai Sustainable Tourism

Driven by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) is another initiative of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism that is at the forefront of positioning Dubai as a leading sustainable destination. Aligning the tourism sector with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy, DST is pioneering a transformative journey towards a more environmentally conscious and socially responsible tourism sector.

Yousuf Lootah, Acting CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance sector, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, said: “World Environment Day serves as a powerful catalyst for global action, and Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism is proud to lead the charge in promoting sustainability and responsible tourism. The remarkable achievements of the Dubai Can initiative are a testament to our unwavering commitment to protecting the environment and shaping a greener future for Dubai’s tourism industry. The initiative’s recent figures display the transformative power of Dubai Can and the collective efforts of our community in embracing sustainable alternatives. Beyond Dubai Can, we are actively driving change through innovative strategies and partnerships. The Dubai Sustainable Tourism initiative serves as another shining example of our unwavering dedication to fostering sustainability within the tourism sector.”

“As we commemorate World Environment Day, let us celebrate Dubai’s remarkable achievements in sustainable tourism and renew our collective dedication to building a better and more sustainable world for future generations. By embracing responsible tourism practices and making conscious choices, we have the power to make a profound and lasting impact on our environment, not only on this special day but every day,” Lootah added.

Dubai’s commitment to sustainability extends far beyond World Environment Day, as the city gears up to host the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. As 2023 has been designated as the ‘Year of Sustainability’ in Dubai, the city is poised to showcase its dedication to addressing the pressing challenges of climate change on a global stage. COP28 will bring together world leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from around the globe to engage in crucial discussions and negotiations to shape the future of our planet. As Dubai assumes this pivotal role, it underscores the city’s determination to lead by example and drive impactful change through sustainable practices, innovative technologies, and collaborative partnerships. With COP28 on the horizon, Dubai is not only showcasing its sustainability initiatives but also facilitating a platform for international cooperation and knowledge exchange to tackle the pressing environmental issues of our time.

Dubai Carbon Calculator

Central to the Dubai Sustainable Tourism strategy is the ground-breaking Dubai Carbon Calculator, an innovative system that measures and tracks the carbon footprint within Dubai’s hospitality sector. Launched in 2017, Dubai Carbon Calculator empowers hotels to accurately assess their carbon emissions, enabling them to identify cost-saving opportunities and manage their energy, water and waste consumption more efficiently.

DST’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond carbon footprint measurement. The initiative has mandated hotels in Dubai to comply with the 19 Sustainability Requirements, encompassing sustainable management approaches, performance metrics, energy and water management plans, guest education and employee training initiatives. By embracing these requirements, hotels not only contribute to environmental conservation but also enhance their brand value, resource efficiency and overall competitiveness.

Recognising that collaboration is key to achieving sustainability goals, DST aims to establish partnerships with various stakeholders, including Etihad ESCO, Emirates Environmental Group, and Emirates Green Building Council, Goumbook and Emirates Nature WWF. Through comprehensive training programmes and educational initiatives, the initiative ensures that hotels and resorts have the necessary tools and knowledge to implement sustainable practices and contribute to Dubai’s sustainability goals. By fostering strong partnerships and sharing best practices, Dubai is setting an example for destinations worldwide and inspiring a collective commitment to sustainable tourism.

World Environment Day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for collective action in safeguarding the planet. With its strategic approach to sustainability and responsible tourism, the Dubai Sustainable Tourism initiative positions the city as a leader in the global movement. Driven by innovation, collaboration, and the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai remains unwavering in its commitment to shaping a greener and more sustainable future for the tourism industry.

SOURCE: Breaking Travel news

​​IAFCAC, AASA Join Forces with IATA on Focus Africa

The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) “Focus Africa” drive is gaining momentum, spurred on by the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) as its newest partners. Focus Africa will strengthen aviation’s contribution to Africa’s economic and social development and improve connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers.

It will see private and public stakeholders deliver measurable progress in six critical areas: safety, infrastructure, connectivity, finance and distribution, sustainability and skills development.

“Focus Africa is all about establishing a coalition of partners committing to pool their resources and delivering a set of African air transport solutions that let the continent, its people and economies play a greater, more meaningful and representative role in the global economy.  The combined contributions of AFCAC and AASA will be critical to Focus Africa’s success. Africa accounts for 18% of the global population but less than 3% of global GDP and just 2.1% of air passenger and cargo transport activity. With the right interventions those gaps will be closed, and Africa will benefit from the connectivity, jobs and growth that aviation enables,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

“The ability to access, serve and develop intra-African markets is crucial as the continent’s populace is set to increase by over a billion people by 2050. For this to be sustainable, economic opportunities must be created. As other regions have demonstrated, air transport connectivity unlocks broad prosperity. As the African Union’s civil aviation agency, we will support Focus Africa through our work developing a set of harmonized rules and regulations designed to make this connectivity a reality and drive our strategic objectives,” said AFCAC Secretary-General, Adefunke Adeyemi.

“Time is not on our side as AASA’s members and the communities they serve face rising costs, unprecedented unemployment, obsolete constraints on trade and market access, inadequate infrastructure and a looming skills shortage. These demand urgent action, so we do not get stranded on the runway. It is why we have no hesitation standing with IATA and other Focus Africa partners,” added AASA CEO, Aaron Munetsi.

Leaders and decision-makers from airlines, airports, air navigation services, government agencies, aircraft manufacturers, industry suppliers and other stakeholders will convene at the IATA Focus Africa Conference, hosted by Ethiopian Airlines, in Addis Ababa on 20-21 June, to address the six priority task areas in detail.


SOURCE: Breaking Travel News

LATAM Brasil And Airlink Announce Interline Agreement

On Wednesday, LATAM Brasil and the South African carrier Airlink announced the signing of an interline agreement that will allow the travelers of the South American airline to access over 40 destinations in Africa. The new travel options will be available once LATAM restarts its route between Sao Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) and Johannesburg Tambo International Airport (JNB) on September 2, with three weekly flights.

A new interline agreement.
LATAM Brasil and Airlink have inked a new interline agreement in which one company may sell flight segments of the other using its own code. LATAM will begin to gradually sell Airlink’s flights as of Tuesday, May 23, on its website. It will offer over 40 destinations in Africa operated by the new partner.

The new routes under LATAM’s interline agreement with Airlink are available starting on September 2. On that date, LATAM will restart flying to Johannesburg from Sao Paulo after a pause of more than three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The route between Brazil and South Africa will last nine hours. It will be operated by the airline’s Boeing 787-9 fleet, which seats 300 passengers (30 in premium business, 57 in premium economy, and 213 in economy).

Where does Airlink fly?
The South African carrier based in Johannesburg has a fleet of 62 aircraft, composed mainly of Embraer jetliners, according to data from ch-aviation. Through the new interlink agreement, LATAM passengers will be able to access more than 40 destinations across Africa. This includes sixteen destinations in South Africa, six in Mozambique, three in Zimbabwe, one in Tanzania, one in the Democratic Republic of Congo, three in Botswana, one in the island of St. Helena, one in Angola, three in Zambia, one in Lesotho, one in Kenya, two in Madagascar, two in Namibia, and one in
Eswatini.

Rodger Foster, CEO and Managing Director of Airlink, said the airline “is very proud of this partnership with LATAM as it enables connectivity between Latin America and all of Southern Africa, creating wonderful corporate and leisure opportunities.”

Meanwhile, Aline Mafra, LATAM Brasil’s Director of Sales and Marketing, added, “This is yet another example of how we have thought of a borderless airline network to bring Brazil closer to the world in a sustainable manner. This agreement makes our flights to South Africa even more attractive and full of possibilities. The new connectivity options from Johannesburg expand the offer to LATAM customers, who will now be able to reach important destinations on
the African continent such as Luanda, Nairobi, and Cape Town.”

This is Airlink’s second partnership announcement this year. In February, British Airways and the South African carrier announced a new codeshare agreement connecting British’s passengers with over 15 destinations across Southern
Africa. This includes destinations such as Durban, Port Elizabeth, and Skukuza in South Africa via Johannesburg and or Cape Town, and Windhoek and Walvis Bay in Namibia via these two South African cities.

SOURCE: Simple Flying

Dubai World Trade Centre events fuel Dubai economy in 2022

A key driver of MICE sector growth and the largest operator across the wider MENASA region, Dubai World Trade Centre’s(DWTC) event calendar remained an economic catalyst for the Emirate – generating sustainably high returns for adjacent industries connected to the MICE ecosystem.63 Large scale events held at DWTC welcomed nearly 1.2MM attendees with 40% being international – an impressive49% YOY increase in foreign participation, emphasizing Dubai’s leadership as a global mega-event hub.
Dubai continues to attract businesses and talent from around the world, with DWTC providing an effective connectivity platform to collaborate, accelerate innovation, and showcase next-generation products and services to far-reaching markets. This sustained impact of in-person events is a clear indicator of the MICE industry’s role in supporting economic growth and achieving investment returns for all stakeholders,” said H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri Director General of DWTC Authority. According to DWTC’s 2022 Economic Impact Assessment Report, released today, DWTC’s 63 large scale events (>2,000 attendees) grew by 26% YOY. Total direct economic output across MICE business services and adjacent sectors more than doubled YOY (108%) to reach $2.55 billion. This further reinforces DWTC’s global leadership as a consistent driver of incremental revenues benefiting other vital sectors of the economy. DWTC events supported over 48,000 jobs, representing a 110% YOY increase, yielding increased disposable household income of $651 million. DWTC’s robust events portfolio spans key priority verticals for Dubai’s economic agenda with Healthcare, Medical, and Scientific; Information Technology (IT); and Food, Hotel, and Catering, emerging as the top three sectors. They accounted for 57% ($1.16 billion) of the gross value added (GVA) to Dubai’s economy. Combined attendance represented 46% (535,000) of total large-scale event visitation. Annual events, which included GITEX Global and Gulfood, generated $3.55 billion in economic output, of which $2.03 billion was retained within Dubai’s GDP. “2022 has been a particularly milestone year for global MICE, and Dubai’s ability to continue to sustain its pace of growth in this sector that has been through a transformative period showcasing revival post pandemic, is testament to our ability to render sustained value to business participants,” concluded His Excellency Almarri.
SOURCE: breakingtravelnews

Kenya Airways Operates Its Most Sustainable Boeing 787 Flight Yet

A significant milestone for Kenya Airways and the African aviation industry. On May 25, Kenya’s national carrier Kenya Airways (KQ) operated possibly the most sustainable commercial long-haul flight between Africa and Europe as part of The Sustainable Flight Challenge (TSFC) by SkyTeam. The challenge is a friendly competition between members of the alliance. The flight was operated on KQ’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner, departing Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta Airport (NBO) at 08:40 and arriving at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) at 16:40. The entire Kenya Airways team worked tirelessly to make sure the flight was a success. KQ’s SAF-powered flight involved sustainable flight and ground operations, a sustainably curated in-flight menu, a customer carbon offsetting program, e-mobility for guests, travel light policies, and waste management initiatives.

Eni Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Kenya Airways used Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) provided by Eni as part of the challenge, making it the first African airline to use this type of fuel. For the flight, JetA1 fuel was mixed with Eni Biojet to significantly cut carbon emissions and demonstrate the future of world air travel. Eni Biojet is the first biogenic SAF. It is blended with 20% of Eni’s Jet Fuel and made in Synergy with its Gela biorefinery solely from waste materials, animal fats, and used vegetable oils. The fuel is produced at the company’s Livorno factory and tested in research laboratories to ensure quality. It is also the first exclusive batch of SAF to come out of Eni’s Livorno refinery. The partnership between Eni and one of Africa’s most prominent carriers is a significant step towards the decarbonization of aviation in the continent. Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka said; “Working with Eni Sustainable Mobility to pilot the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) puts us on the first pathway to testing the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel within Africa. The data and insights generated from the pilot flight will be valuable to inform policy decisions, regulatory frameworks, and industry best practices related to SAF. This will be a significant milestone for Kenya Airways and the broader African aviation industry.” In addition to reducing carbon emissions during flights, the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels must reduce water usage, limit the use of pesticides and fertilizers, and not use land reserved for food production, significantly reducing deforestation. Blending jet fuel with biofuels JetA1 fuel can be combined with up to 50% of Eni Biojet as it contains 100% biogenic feedstock. For the Nairobi-Amsterdam flight, it was mixed with conventional jet fuel, and Kenya Airways will continue working with Eni to power flights going out of the country. As the use of biofuels is still being tested, such flights will provide valuable data and insights as the aviation industry works towards Net Zero by 2050. Additionally, the SAF powered flights allow Kenya Airways to gain a competitive advantage in the continent. Eni CEO Stefano Ballista said; “The supply of Eni Biojet to Nairobi Airport is an important step for Eni Sustainable Mobility because it confirms that the company can support airlines such as Kenya Airways in their path towards decarbonization.” From 2025, all airlines operating flights from European airports will be required to incorporate a portion of SAF. Kenya Airways seeks to take advantage of this sustainability momentum in line with EU guidelines for blending jet fuels.

Sourcing raw materials from Africa
Eni currently produces aviation fuel with a 20% biogenic component, JetA1, and Eni Biojet. The company has signed agreements with various airlines, airports, and logistical operators to deliver it, with over 200,000 tonnes expected to be produced annually from 2024. The mega-production requires a significant supply of raw materials which can be sourced from Africa. Eni is looking to develop a supply chain in Kenya to collect used cooking oil through collaborations with various companies in the food sector. This will also contribute to food waste management in Africa. Eni and Kenya Airways will continue working together for a greener future and reach a broader agreement for long-term collaboration. As importing Jet Fuel is one of the most significant costs for African airlines, the production of SAF in the continent would be essential for maintaining a sustainable African aviation market.
SOURCE: simpleflying

Turkish Airlines Introduces Flight Tracker Digital Globe to Enhance Guest Experience

Turkish Airlines, the airline that flies to the more countries than any other in the world, made a new addition to its privileged services offered to guests in this rapidly evolving era of technology and digitalization where customer satisfaction has become increasingly important. The flag carrier has introduced the Flight Tracker digital globe for use in its Business Lounge, emphasizing the diverse and enjoyable aspects of digital channels, modernized with a solution oriented approach. With the Flight Tracker digital globe, guests will be able to track real-time locations of Turkish Airlines aircraft, flown destinations, current weather conditions, and experience the use of many different features such as flight information and Miles&Smiles membership. This technology, which is a result of extensive market research and presented for passengers’ appreciation, was launched with live flight information and destination data, along with a unique interface design exclusive to Turkish Airlines. On the new service of the flag carrier, Turkish Airlines Chief Marketing Officer Ahmet Olmuştur stated: “As Turkish Airlines, from the first day we were established, we have been working to provide our guests with a flawless travel experience, in addition to safety and comfort during their travels. With our new service, we offer our guests the opportunity to learn the weather of the destinations they will go to, and also the possibility to create a Miles&Smiles membership via QR code. We prepare and develop our solution alternatives according to the needs of our guests with the strength that the evolving and changing technology adds to our brand.” Turkish Airlines has raised the bar in its service approach by adding the Flight Tracker digital globe to its Business Lounge, where guests also enjoy spending time with the Hezarfen Flight Simulator, console games, a golf area and children’s play areas.
SOURCE: breakingtravelnews

Qatar Airways and Google Cloud to Collaborate on Data and AI

Google Cloud and Qatar Airways have agreed to collaborate to set out the airline’s intention to explore leveraging Google Cloud’s data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to create superior customer experiences for its passengers. In 2022, Qatar Airways carried 18.5 million passengers across 150 destinations worldwide. This large volume of passengers drives an abundance of structured and unstructured data to the airline’s digital transformation unit. The proposed collaboration with Google Cloud is intended to help bring deeper meaning to Qatar Airways’ customer data through the power of Google’s data analytics, AI and machine learning (ML) solutions, including BigQuery and Vertex AI. This, in turn, will enable the airline to enhance the travel experience for passengers, providing them with offerings personalized to their individual needs, travel trends, and past travel history. Qatar Airways Chief Information Officer, Mr. A.T. Srinivasan, said, “Qatar Airways is a highly respected aviation leader which has always set benchmarks with its globally recognized and award-winning customer service. Google Cloud brings us the opportunity to build elasticity and scalability on demand, as we increasingly look to leverage both structured and unstructured data to personalize customer and employee experience. We will also leverage Google’s highly secure and diverse set of Cloud service offerings for optimizing our airline and airport operations particularly in the areas of aircraft inventory, flight operations both on ground and in the air, as well as airport operations. We also look forward to collaborating with Google Cloud to try out some of their cutting-edge technology through this long-term partnership. The presence of a Cloud in Qatar gives us the assurance that our data stays in-country and we can focus on data and AI/ML led innovation without having to worry about data residency.” Ghassan Kosta, Qatar Country Manager, Google Cloud added: “Businesses today can make smart decisions in real time and provide personalized experiences to their customers through AI and machine learning     tools. Qatar Airways is not only an airline that takes passengers from point A to point B, but also it is a manifestation of Qatari hospitality. Through use of Google Cloud, Qatar Airways can enable passengers to enjoy elevated travel experiences, including personalized travel recommendations and suggestions as if they have a dedicated travel agent who understands their specific needs and requirements.” Additionally, Qatar Airways and Google Cloud will explore further areas of collaboration, including using cloud tools to drive cost optimization, increase streamlined operations, and more. Sustainability is also a top priority in the airline’s digital transformation roadmap, and Qatar Airlines will explore using Google Cloud, the cleanest cloud in the industry, to implement new programs that will support Qatar Airways in fulfilling its sustainability goals by 2030.
SOURCE: breakingtravelnews

Fly Emirates to Dubai and enjoy a complimentary night’s stay in a luxury 4- or 5-starhotel

Emirates has announced an exciting new offer for travellers planning to visit Dubai this summer. Available now until 11 June 2023, people who purchase an Emirates return ticket in First Class or Business Class to or stopping over in Dubai, will be able to enjoy a complimentary two night stay at 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central. While those travelling in Premium Economy Class or Economy Class can enjoy a complimentary one night stay at Novotel World Trade Centre, Dubai. This special offer is valid for all return tickets to or stopping over in Dubai for more than 24 hours, for travel dates between 26 May 2023 and 31 August 2023. The offer is available on bookings made on emirates.com, Emirates call center or ticket offices, and via participating travel agents, made at least 96 hours in advance of passengers’ arrival.  Based right next to Dubai’s iconic Museum of the Future, the 5* 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central draws inspiration from traditional Bedouin culture and design, but with a modernized twist. Lose yourself in a culinary experience from North Indian Cuisines to Bavarian beer across the five amazing in-house restaurant and bars all over the hotel. If you’re looking to relax, travellers can unwind in the Extra Hour Spa, a unique, rooftop sauna that overlooks the stunning city of Dubai. Located within the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DWTC), Novotel World Trade Centre, Dubai, gives off a luxurious yet homely vibe right in the heart of the city. Relax by the pool and enjoy signature cocktails and light meals from Chills Pool Bar, and cap your adventure off with listening to a live music performance at the soul southing Blue Bar. Whether travelling alone or as a family, make Novotel World Trade Centre, Dubai your place to stay. Explore more of Dubai with Emirates whether it’s cooling down in private pools or enjoying family fun at indoor theme parks and water parks, there is something for every traveler when visiting Dubai this summer. From sun-soaked beaches and cultural activities to world class hospitality and leisure facilities, Dubai offers a variety of world- class experiences for every visitor:

My Emirates Pass:

Customers flying to or through Dubai can simply show their boarding pass and a valid form of identification to hundreds of retails, leisure, and dining outlets, as well as famous attractions and luxury spas, to enjoy fantastic discounts throughout Dubai and the UAE. To see all My Emirates Pass offers, please visit www.emirates.com/myemiratespass.
Dubai Experience:

Customers can browse, create and book their own customized itineraries including flights, hotel stay, visits to key attractions, and other dining and leisure experiences in Dubai and the UAE, through Emirates’ Dubai Experience platform, and enjoy even more unique benefits. Skywards Partners: Members of Emirates’ award-winning loyalty program, Skywards, can earn Miles with our worldwide partners like hotels, airlines, car rentals, retail and banking. Members can spend these Miles on reward tickets, upgrades, or even tickets for concerts and sports events. Learn more about Emirates Skywards here. Emirates Holidays: Customers can book their holiday to Dubai through Emirates Holidays. All Emirates Holidays include flexible booking options. Whilst for even more peace of mind, Emirates Holidays’ dedicated 24/7 On Holiday Service team will be there to support holidaymakers for every moment that they’re away. Emirates currently offers flights to Dubai from more than 130 destinations across six continents.  For more information, visit emirates.com. Tickets can be purchased on emirates.com, Emirates Sales Office, via travel agents or through online travel agents. Available in 20 countries: Australia, Canada, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Kuwait, Lebanon,
New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Africa, Sudan, Switzerland, Tanzania, Uganda, United States, United Kingdom, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
SOURCE: breakingtravelnews

Dubai announces major beach development plan

Dubai will have five times as many beaches by 2040, following a major announcement to develop tourism and wellbeing for residents.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai made the announcement on social media, after a visit to Jebel Ali Beach.

The ambitious plans will see the emirate increase the area of beaches in the emirate from 21km to 105km.

Dubai beach plan

Sheikh Mohammed said there will also be a 300 per cent increase in the services on public beaches by 2025.

Sheikh Mohammed’s Twitter message said: “Within the Dubai Urban Plan, we have adopted the development and doubling of public beaches by 400% by 2040. increasing its area from 21km now to 105km and raising the percentage of services by 300% on public beaches by 2025.

We launched the first urban plan in Dubai in the 1960s. Development in Dubai is continuing and we are still at the beginning. We will continue to provide the best standard of living for individuals and families in services and projects globally”

“The new urban projects will add to the renewed dazzle in the emirate and will support our economic and tourism agenda for the next decade.”

Sheikh Mohammed said the city will continue to compete with itself to be the ideal place for visitors and residents.

“Our goal is to consolidate the leading position achieved by Dubai as one of the most beautiful and most developed cities in the world,” he added.

Earlier this month it was announced a new beach in the city will be dog-friendly and a hub for water sports.

The newly opened beach will be the first family-friendly beach in the city to allow dogs to swim, says developer Nakheel.

The new beach is located along the emirate’s northern coastline and is now open from sunrise to sunset.

The new beach is poised to become the go-to destination for water sports and beach sports enthusiasts, just a few steps away from Centara Mirage Beach Resort and Hotel Riu.

SOURCE: Arabianbusiness.