EU Must Review EU ETS to Support Competitiveness as Aviation Decarbonizes

EU Must Review EU ETS to Support Competitiveness as Aviation Decarbonizes 24 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) calls for the review of the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) to enhance European air connectivity and economic resilience by improving the competitiveness of Europe’s air transport industry. IATA calls for the review to: Ensure full implementation of CORSIA for all international flights, including flights within the European Economic Area (EEA) routes. To prevent market fragmentations, the EU should avoid regional derogations, additional eligibility hurdles, and overlapping measures that conflict with this global framework. Enable a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) book-and-claim system for the claiming of environmental ......read full article

Air Travel Demand Will More Than Double by 2050

17 March 2026 (Geneva) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its Long‑Term Demand Projections (LTDP) for air travel, showing that global air passenger demand is expected to more than double by 2050. Under the mid‑range scenario, demand is forecast to reach 20.8 trillion revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), based on a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% (2024-2050) from the 9 trillion RPKs seen in 2024. A higher growth scenario would see a 3.3% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 21.9 trillion RPKs in 2050. A lower growth scenario would see 2.9% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 19.5 trillion RPKs by 2050. The different scenarios are driven by alternative modeling of long-term economic growth, populations, aviation fuel price trends, the global energy transition, and air ......read full article

IATA Launches DG Digital to Fully Digitalize Dangerous Goods Declarations

13 March 2026 (Lima) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched DG Digital, IATA's digital Dangerous Goods Declaration solution, as a feature of DG AutoCheck. The new tool fully digitalizes the creation and approval of shippers' declarations for more than 3,800 dangerous items—from lithium batteries to explosives and chemicals. This results in faster document sharing, improved safety, and a significant reduction in rejected shipments. Today, 95% of Dangerous Goods Declarations are still received in paper format. These declarations must be scanned, converted into a PDF document, then uploaded into DG AutoCheck to be validated. With DG Digital, declarations are generated and transmitted digitally from creation by the shipper to validation. This creates a more efficient and ......read full article

IATA Advances AI Initiatives to Support Air Cargo Operations

12 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is advancing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in air cargo with three initiatives to improve operational efficiency, strengthen safety and compliance, and accelerate innovation across the global air cargo value chain: Making publications more efficient: IATA is launching an AI Subject Matter Expert (AI SME), a mobile and web-based application that helps operational teams quickly find information in IATA cargo and safety publications by asking questions in plain language. The tool provides accurate answers within seconds. This supports faster operational decision-making, strengthens compliance, and improves efficiency in time-critical environments. The AI SME will be available initially for the IATA Dangerous Goods ......read full article

Air Cargo Enable $157 Billion in Frontloaded Trade and Supported AI Growth in 2025

11 March 2026 (Lima, Peru) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) today released a report, showing air cargo’s vital role in sustaining global trade and supporting economic growth in 2025 amid severe trade policy uncertainty. Two key report findings are that: Air cargo enabled the frontloading of $157 billion US imports in the first quarter of 2025. Air cargo transported more than two thirds of global AI-related goods in 2025. These activities supported global trade growth of 2.4% in 2025—well above initial forecasts by the World Trade Organization. Global GDP also expanded by 3.2% despite significant policy headwinds. “Air cargo is a structural component of global economic resilience. In 2025, it helped businesses absorb tariff shocks, enabled rapid trade restructuring, and ......read full article

Highlights Three Priorities for Air Cargo

11 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted three priorities for the global air cargo industry: Accelerating digitalization Strengthening global standards Enhancing safety and security "Air cargo plays a critical role in connecting businesses to global markets and keeping supply chains moving, even as the operating environment becomes more complex. With so many external events impacting global supply chains—including the tariff and geopolitical shocks—it is important that we work on building resilience in areas we can control or influence. Working together to strengthen digitalization, global standards, and supply chain security will position air cargo well to continue supporting economic growth by connecting products to markets," said Brendan Sullivan, ......read full article

IATA Releases 2025 Safety Report

0 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its 2025 Annual Safety Report demonstrating a solid year of safety performance with the following highlights: The all-accident rate of 1.32 per million flights (one accident per 759,646 flights) was better than the 1.42 recorded in 2024 but slightly above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 1.27. There were 51 accidents in 2025 among 38.7 million flights. That is fewer than the 54 accidents among 37.9 million flights in 2024, but above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 44 accidents. There were eight fatal accidents in 2025. That is more than the seven fatal accidents recorded in 2024 and the five-year average of six fatal accidents. There were 394 onboard fatalities in 2025, more than the 244 fatalities reported in ......read full article

IATA Focus Africa to Spotlight Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency

9 March 2026 (Amman) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2026 edition of IATA Focus Africa Conference will convene under the theme 'Elevating Aviation Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency in Africa' in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 29-30 April 2026, hosted by Ethiopian Airlines. "Aviation has the potential to do much more to enable Africa's economic and social development. Improving safety, harmonizing regulations, and reducing costs while increasing operational efficiency are at the top of the agenda for this edition of the IATA Focus Africa Conference. The demand to support 3-4% growth annually is there. Focus Africa aims to align the continent's aviation stakeholders in taking the pragmatic steps needed to turn potential into a sustainable ......read full article

IATA Opens Nominations for 2026 Edition of Diversity & Inclusion Awards

26 February 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the opening of nominations for the 2026 edition of the IATA Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Awards. The Awards recognize excellence in the promotion of diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry in three categories: The Inspirational Role Model Award recognizes a woman holding a senior position within the air transport industry who has had substantial impact on diversity and inclusion in aviation through her significant influence at global level. The High Flyer Award recognizes a female aviation professional under the age of 40 who has demonstrated leadership through concrete action in favor of diversity and inclusion, making a positive impact on the industry. The Diversity & ......read full article

Etihad rail reveals passenger experience ahead of uae network launch

Designed around comfort, reliability and time gained A calm option for commuters, business travellers and families A passenger experience built for every-day and every-way of life Abu Dhabi, UAE – 25 February 2026: Following the announcement of the UAE's national passenger rail network, Etihad Rail has revealed new details on what passengers can expect when services start operating later this year. The passenger experience has been developed with a clear focus on how people live, work and travel across the UAE today, offering a modern, comfortable and reliable alternative to intercity driving, while supporting the country's wider mobility and sustainability goals. Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy CEO, Etihad Rail Mobility said: "This next phase of our passenger journey is about moving from infrastructure to ......read full article

Airlines Call for Annual 4.9% Reduction in Spanish Airport Charges

18 February 2026 (Geneva/Madrid) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Spanish Airline Association (ALA) called for an annual reduction of 4.9% (excluding inflation) in Spanish airport charges over the next five years (2027–2031), a level compatible with maintaining an airport investment plan of nearly €10 billion over the same period, and enhancing Spain’s economic competitiveness. AENA, the operator of most airports in Spain, has proposed an annual increase of 3.8% (excluding inflation) for the five-year period covered by the Third Airport Regulation Document (DORA III). Airlines reject this proposal, citing AENA’s consistent underestimation of traffic growth and the excessive regulated returns it has earned during previous regulatory periods. Between 2017 and 2025, ......read full article

The Inaugural Art Basel Qatar Marks a Defining Moment in Doha's Cultural Rise

The conclusion of Art Basel Qatar 2026 has marked a defining moment in Doha’s cultural evolution, reinforcing the city’s position as a leading hub for contemporary art and creative exchange in the region. Held from February 3 to 7 across M7 Cultural Forum and the Doha Design District in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the inaugural edition brought together leading galleries, collectors, curators and artists from Qatar, the wider MENASA region and beyond. As Art Basel’s fifth global fair, the Qatar edition reflected a deliberate curatorial approach that placed regional narratives within a global framework. With Visit Qatar as lead partner, the Art Basel Qatar 2026 was developed in partnership with Art Basel, Qatar Sports Investments and QC+ to celebrate Qatar’s growing cultural leadership while creating a ......read full article

Swissôtel Doha Corniche Park Towers Introduces "Nasmah" at The Quarter

Inspired by Tradition and Togetherness, Nasmah Sets the Scene for Elevated Ramadan Gatherings Throughout the Holy Month Doha, Qatar – 16 February 2026:  Swissôtel Doha Corniche Park Towers marks its first Ramadan season in Doha with the introduction of Nasmah, a new Ramadan tent at The Quarter. Inspired by the spirit of the Holy Month and reimagined through Swissôtel's refined approach to hospitality, Nasmah presents a thoughtfully curated setting designed for meaningful Iftar and Suhoor gatherings rooted in tradition, elegance, and togetherness. Set within The Quarter at Swissôtel Doha Corniche Park Towers, Nasmah forms the heart of the hotel's Ramadan experience this season. The setting complements Swissôtel's philosophy of thoughtful hospitality, where refined service, attention to detail, and a calm, ......read full article

Raffles doha named five-star hotel in forbes travel guide's 2026 star awards

Raffles Doha Earns Prestigious Accolade; Ratings Showcased on ForbesTravelGuide.com Doha, Qatar, 12 February 2026: Forbes Travel Guide ("FTG"), the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and cruise ships, today announced its 2026 Star Awards. Raffles Doha earned a new Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award and is showcased with other honourees on ForbesTravelGuide.com. Situated within the iconic Katara Towers, Raffles Doha is a defining masterpiece of Lusail's skyline. It has established a new global benchmark for ultra-luxury hospitality as Qatar's first all-suite property. As you step into the soaring kaleidoscopic atrium of Raffles Doha, you are greeted with a personalised welcome. The hotel's suites feature majestic, vaulted ceilings and private balconies that open up to spectacular ......read full article

IDAM Received the “Best Restaurant in Qatar” Award at MENA's 50 BEST Excellence Recognised

Doha, Qatar — 10 February 2026: IDAM by Alain Ducasse (IDAM), the MICHELIN-starred fine-dining restaurant located at the Museum of Islamic Art, received the ‘’Best Restaurant in Qatar’’ Award and has been ranked 44 on MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants, reaffirming its status as one of the region’s most distinguished culinary destinations. This prestigious recognition reflects the restaurant’s unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, innovation, and exceptional guest experiences. Aligned with QC+, a mark of distinction that celebrates quality, creativity, and cultural excellence in Qatar, IDAM is celebrated for its innovative fine dining with focus on preservation. The restaurant’s inclusion in MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants highlights not only its culinary mastery, but also its ......read full article

Msheireb Downtown Doha Unveils “Layali Msheireb” Ramadan Seasonal Programme

Doha, Qatar – 11 February 2026: Msheireb Properties has unveiled its comprehensive seasonal programme for Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr 2026, themed “Layali Msheireb.” Running through the holy month, the smart and sustainable district, Msheireb Downtown Doha, will become a glowing hub of community, celebration, and spiritual contemplation through a series of intricate installations and cultural activations. A Season of Spiritual and Cultural Reflection The Barahat Msheireb will serve as the centrepiece for evening gatherings, hosting exclusive Iftar and Suhoor experiences in collaboration with the Mandarin Oriental Doha. These “Baraha Ramadan Nights” offer families and friends a refined setting to break their fast amidst the district's striking architecture. A defining feature of this ......read full article

AROYA Cruises Prepares for Highly Anticipated Inaugural Arabian Gulf Season

Saudi Arabia's first cruise line invites travellers across the region to rediscover the Arabian Gulf through an authentically Arabian, world-class cruising experience Doha-Qatar, 5 February 2026 – AROYA Cruises — the first Arabian cruise line introduced by Cruise Saudi, a 100% PIF-owned company - unveiled its much-anticipated inaugural Arabian Gulf season, commencing in February 2026. The new season introduces a range of voyages, from two-, three- and four-night itineraries to five-, six-, and seven-night journeys, offering guests a new way to explore the region's most vibrant destinations by sea. AROYA brings the warmth and familiarity of its signature 'Remarkably Arabian' hospitality to the onboard experience, blending authentic Saudi culture with world-class cruise standards. From diverse ......read full article

Visit Qatar Launches Exclusive Travel Packages for Qatar Football Festival 2026 and Finalissima Spain vs Argentina Showdown

Visit Qatar, in collaboration with Qatar Airways, has announced the launch of exclusive travel packages for international fans attending the Qatar Football Festival 2026, taking place from 26 to 31 March 2026. Available starting February 1, 2026, the packages offer football fans a unique opportunity to attend the highly anticipated Finalissima 2026 match between Argentina and Spain at the iconic Lusail Stadium. The festival will also feature a series of high-profile international fixtures involving the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the Republic of Serbia. Designed to enhance the visitor journey and facilitate access, the travel packages deliver a seamless sports tourism experience, enabling visitors to enjoy world-class competition in Qatar’s state-of-the-art stadiums while ......read full article

Swissotel Corniche Park Towers Doha

An iconic oasis with picturesque corniche views – prime location – global culinary experience and the finest Swiss Hospitality. Welcome to Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha, the flagship of our iconic Swiss brand in Qatar. Located in the commercial centre of West Bay, the hotel’s glittering glass towers soar above the palm-fringed Doha Corniche, a waterfront promenade famed throughout the region for its vibrant restaurants and cultural venues. The best spot in the city for an invigorating early-morning run or a hand-in-hand afternoon stroll, it is loved by locals and visitors alike for its mesmerising Gulf and skyline views. Featuring 342 elegantly designed rooms, suites, and serviced apartments, and six distinctive restaurants and lounges, Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha blends Swiss sophistication with ......read full article

Qatar Tourism Marks 2025 as a Year of Global Milestones and Resilient Growth

Qatar Tourism and Visit Qatar delivered a strong performance and sustained strategic momentum in 2025, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a year-round tourism destination. Total visitor arrivals grew 3.7 percent to 5.1 million, with the country welcoming 674,000 visitors in December, a near 16 percent increase on the same month a year earlier, driven by major international events, including the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™. The hospitality sector delivered solid growth across all key indicators. 10.8 million room nights were sold, up 8.6 percent compared to 2024, while total accommodation revenue reached QAR 8.3 billion, representing a 12 percent year-on-year increase. 2025 was defined by strong integrated delivery across marketing, partnerships and events. More than 35 global strategic partnerships were activated, supported ......read full article

Taste of Sardinia by Cala di Volpe Comes to Doha with an Exclusive Culinary Collaboration at The Ned

Doha, Qatar (January 2026): The Ned Doha welcomes an extraordinary culinary collaboration with Cala di Volpe, bringing the spirit, heritage and flavors of Sardinia to the heart of Doha for a limited three-day experience, Taste of Sardinia, from 20–22 January 2026. Designed as an intimate and immersive dining journey, Taste of Sardinia is a private culinary experience inspired by the island's rich gastronomic traditions, artisanal produce and time-honored techniques. Curated by the chefs of Cala di Volpe, Culinary Director Maurizio Locatelli alongside Executive Chef Michele Bacciu, the experience celebrates Sardinia's distinctive food culture through a refined, contemporary lens. Hosted in the refined setting of The Ned Doha's club, Taste of Sardinia invites guests to enjoy ......read full article

Msheireb Downtown Doha Welcomes Qatar Tourism Headquarters Relocation

Doha, Qatar – 18 January 2026: Msheireb Properties announces the relocation of Qatar Tourism headquarters to Msheireb Downtown Doha. This move enhances Msheireb Downtown Doha's position as Qatar's premier destination for leading government institutions and major organisations. The relocation provides Qatar Tourism—including its marketing arm Visit Qatar—with state-of-the-art facilities within Msheireb Downtown Doha's sustainable urban environment. The city offers a strategic hub through smart city infrastructure and proximity to key cultural, business, and transport centres. Msheireb Downtown Doha's Gold and Platinum LEED-certified buildings feature energy-efficient systems and smart infrastructure designed to optimise operations whilst supporting Qatar National Vision 2030 objectives. H.E. ......read full article

Qatar International Food Festival Returns for its 15th Edition, Celebrating 15 Years of Culinary Excellence

Visit Qatar officially inaugurated the 15th edition of the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) at the 974 Stadium Precinct, marking the opening of one of Qatar's longest-running cultural festivals. The ceremony was attended by Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, alongside senior officials, partners, and guests. The opening day featured a curated cultural programme, including a Qatari Fajri performance inspired by the nation's pearl-diving heritage, Mexican and Canadian cultural showcases presented as part of the Year of Culture 'Qatar,  Canada and Mexico', an opening address by Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, Chief Executive Officer of Visit Qatar, an opening ceremony show and the festivities concluded with fireworks and drone ......read full article

Visit Qatar unveils second wave of headliners at 25N51E Music Festival

Visit Qatar has announced a second wave of headline artists joining the 25N51E Music Festival, taking place on 30 January 2026 at the iconic Stadium 974. New artists include Feeona and Againstcelebrities on the 25E Main Stage, and A.M.R and Pierre Fares on the 51N Stage, each celebrated for their innovative sounds and mesmerising performances. The 25E Main Stage will now showcase Feeona and Againstcelebrities alongside returning global icons Calvin Harris, Alesso, and Afrojack, all renowned for their chart-topping hits and dynamic live shows.  Feeona is a Doha-based DJ and producer known for her versatile techno and house sets, while Againstcelebrities are renowned for their energetic performances. On the 51N Stage, A.M.R and Pierre Fares join NTO and Ben Böhmer, delivering a curated experience for fans of cutting-edge ......read full article

Mandarin Oriental, Doha Celebrates Qatar National Day Through Art And Creativity With Qatar Academy Msheireb

Doha, 16 December 2025 – In honour of Qatar National Day, Mandarin Oriental, Doha celebrates the nation’s heritage and cultural spirit through a meaningful collaboration with Qatar Academy Msheireb continuing a long-standing commitment to creativity, education, and community engagement. Inspired by this year’s Founder’s Day slogan, “With you it rises, and from you it awaits,” students from Grades 3, 4, and 5 were invited to create original artworks reflecting Qatar’s heritage, values, and strong sense of community. A selection of these thoughtful works has been integrated into the hotel’s Qatar National Day celebrations. On Qatar National Day, the students’ artworks are showcased on limited-edition dessert cups at Gelato, offering guests a refined culinary experience enriched by ......read full article

Visit Qatar announces the return of 25N51E Music Festival

Visit Qatar has announced the return of the 25N51E Music Festival, taking place on 30 January 2026 at the iconic Stadium 974, bringing one of Qatar’s most exciting electronic-dance music experiences to life with an extraordinary lineup of international artists across two dynamic stages. The 25E Main Stage will feature global headliners including Calvin Harris, Alesso, and Afrojack, each renowned worldwide for their chart-topping hits and dynamic live performances. The 51N Stage will offer a curated experience for electronic music fans, showcasing NTO and Ben Böhmer, both celebrated for their innovative sounds and ability to craft captivating performances. Named after Qatar’s geographic coordinates, 25° North, 51° East, the festival stands as a cultural and musical landmark event, ......read full article

USD 1.2 Billion in Airline Funds Blocked by Governments, Majority in Africa and Middle East

10 December 2025 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that USD 1.2 billion in airline funds are blocked from repatriation by governments as of the end of October 2025. A marginal improvement of USD 100 million has been made since last reported in April 2025. Out of total blocked funds reported, 93% are trapped in Africa and Middle East (AME). IATA called on governments to lift all restrictions on currency repatriation and allow airlines to access their revenues in U.S. dollars from ticket sales, cargo sales and other activities, as guaranteed in bilateral air service agreements and treaty obligations. Restrictions include burdensome or inconsistent procedures to obtain repatriation approval, delays in obtaining approval, shortage or lack of foreign exchange or other limitations imposed by ......read full article

Rosewood doha unveils the city's first outdoor ice rink and a season of festive experiences

A new winter tradition arrives as Rosewood Doha debuts the city’s first outdoor ice rink, surrounded by thoughtfully curated festive moments DOHA, QATAR | DECEMBER 3, 2025 – Rosewood Doha ushers in the festive season with a collection of thoughtfully crafted experiences designed to inspire connection and celebration across the property. Leading this year’s highlights is a debut unlike anything seen in the city before: the Rosewood Ice Rink, Doha’s first-ever outdoor ice skating experience. Set beneath a canopy of shimmering lights and surrounded by Lusail’s striking cityscape, the Rosewood Ice Rink invites guests to glide across a glistening surface that feels both rate and beautifully unexpected. The atmosphere carries a sense of elegant winter leisure with graceful movement, soft notes of ......read full article

Swissotel Corniche Park Towers Doha

An iconic oasis with picturesque corniche views – prime location – global culinary experience and the finest Swiss Hospitality. Welcome to Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha, the flagship of our iconic Swiss brand in Qatar. Located in the commercial centre of West Bay, the hotel’s glittering glass towers soar above the palm-fringed Doha Corniche, a waterfront promenade famed throughout the region for its vibrant restaurants and cultural venues. The best spot in the city for an invigorating early-morning run or a hand-in-hand afternoon stroll, it is loved by locals and visitors alike for its mesmerising Gulf and skyline views. Featuring 342 elegantly designed rooms, suites, and serviced apartments, and six distinctive restaurants and lounges, Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha blends Swiss sophistication with ......read full article

A Toast to 2026 at Shanghai Me Doha

This New Year's Eve, Shanghai Me Doha invites guests to step into The Next Chapter, a sophisticated, future-facing celebration inspired by themes of personal growth, luxury and new beginnings. As the current chapter comes to a close, the restaurant will transform into an elegant, atmospheric destination where guests can welcome 2026 with intention, style and contemporary glamour. Guests can choose between two refined dinner seatings crafted to suit every style of celebration. The early seating, from 5pm to 8pm, features a specially curated à la carte menu spotlighting festive dishes and Shanghai Me's signature culinary artistry. The second seating, from 8pm to 12.30am, offers a more immersive New Year's Eve experience complete with premium menu options, live entertainment and a vibrant, luxurious atmosphere that ......read full article

Thailand Strengthens Its Appeal for High-End Business Travellers

Premium hospitality, world-class golf and luxury lifestyle experiences reshape Thailand’s business travel landscape. Thailand is emerging as a preferred destination for business travellers from the Gulf who are increasingly combining work commitments with elevated leisure and luxury experiences. With premium hospitality, modern business districts and an expanding ecosystem of high-end lifestyle offerings, the country is positioning itself as a leading hub for travellers who value efficiency during the day and indulgence after hours. Industry analysts note that Thailand’s upscale business travel segment continues to generate strong revenue, with luxury hotel groups reporting steady growth driven by executive travellers seeking personalised service and high-comfort environments. Bangkok remains the anchor for ......read full article

Place vendôme announces the return of its record-breaking 24-hour sale

A Non-Stop Shopping Phenomenon from 10PM 27 November to 11:59 PM on 28 November 2025 Doha, Qatar – November 24th, 2025: Place Vendôme, Qatar's premier luxury shopping, lifestyle, and entertainment destination, is thrilled to announce the return of its iconic 24-Hour Sale, a non-stop, night to day shopping celebration beginning at 10PM on Thursday 27th November, and continuing until 11:59PM on Friday evening. Now in its third edition, the 24-Hour Sale has become one of the most eagerly anticipated moments in the national retail calendar, drawing thousands of visitors and delivering record-breaking footfall year-after-year. The event has evolved into a defining pillar of Place Vendôme's retail strategy, one that turns the entire mall into a vibrant, immersive, high-energy experience ......read full article

Thailand Strengthens Its Status as a Premier Luxury Destination

High-end hospitality, private island villas and world-class wellness draw an increasing number of affluent Gulf travellers. Thailand is solidifying its reputation as one of the world’s most desirable luxury destinations for Gulf travellers, supported by rising demand for exclusive accommodations, advanced wellness experiences and premium lifestyle offerings. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recorded more than 162,790 Middle Eastern arrivals in the early months of 2025 and expects numbers to reach around 1.1 million by year-end, underscoring strong interest from UAE and GCC residents seeking indulgent, highly personalised escapes. Phuket, Koh Samui and Krabi remain at the forefront of the country’s luxury appeal, with private villa estates offering a level of exclusivity that continues to ......read full article

IATA and Industry Partners Call for Strengthened Global Cooperation on Aviation Climate Action

18 November 2025 (Belem, Brazil) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA), together with the governments of Japan, Malaysia and leading industry stakeholders, have issued a joint statement at COP30, urging governments and the international community to reaffirm the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)'s leadership and accelerate coordinated climate action for aviation to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Specifically, the signatories highlight the need for global solutions, emphasizing that ICAO remains the exclusive forum for addressing international aviation emissions. The signatories caution against fragmented or unilateral measures, stressing that only a unified approach can deliver effective climate results for the sector. The signatories also stress the role of robust ......read full article

EU261 Reform Going in Wrong Direction and "Works as Reverse Robin Hood"

18 November 2025 (Brussels) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reiterated its strong concern that proposed reforms by the European Parliament to EU261 consumer rights regulation will entrench and worsen its flaws, which have ensured ever-rising costs to consumers and airlines, while failing to tackle the main concerns of passengers. The shortcomings of EU261 have been known for years. In June, European governments finally acted to put in place changes to EU261 that would safeguard connectivity and preserve the competitiveness of European aviation. While far from perfect, the European Council attempted to achieve a more balanced regulation – which has always been the objective of reviewing EU261. The most notable reform was to move the thresholds for compensation from the present three hours to four hours ......read full article

Qatar airways supercharges global operations with next-generation network

Airline’s worldwide rollout of SITA’s SD-WAN sets a new benchmark for aviation connectivity and performance GENEVA – 13 November 2025 – Airlines today face the dual challenge of rising passenger volumes and increasingly complex digital operations. Legacy networks are stretched thin, making it harder to keep global outstations connected, secure, and resilient. To overcome these pressures, Qatar Airways, one of the world’s leading airlines, has rolled out SITA’s next-generation Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) technology across its international outstations. The agreement marks the first large-scale SD-WAN deployment for a major global airline by SITA. SD-WAN replaces rigid legacy networks with a flexible, software-based system that intelligently routes data across multiple ......read full article

Visit Qatar Presents Mo Amer Live in Doha

Visit Qatar presents acclaimed Palestinian- American comedian and actor Mo Amer, performing live in Doha on Friday, 21 November 2025, at the iconic Katara Amphitheatre. Known for his sharp wit and relatable storytelling, Amer will bring his unique take on comedy to audiences in Qatar for one unforgettable night. As a pioneer in Arab American stand-up comedy, Mo Amer has built a global following by turning stories of identity, migration, and everyday life into powerful comedy that resonates across cultures. The show forms part of Qatar’s year-round calendar of events spanning culture, sport, and leisure, reinforcing Doha’s growing reputation as a premier hub for unique events and experiences. Tickets for Mo Amer are now available ......read full article

UFC President and CEO Dana White visits Doha

UFC President and CEO Dana White visited Doha to witness the preparations for the highly anticipated event UFC Fight Night – Doha, which will take place on November 22 at the modern ABHA Arena. This historic event will bring the Octagon to Qatar for the first time, promising an exciting night filled with thrilling matchups and world-class mixed martial arts action. Get your tickets through the following link: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar/ufc-fight-night-2025

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IDAM x Chef Guillaume Galliot Totalling 4 MICHELIN Stars

Doha, Qatar – 27 October 2025:  IDAM by Alain Ducasse (IDAM) has concluded a two-day collaboration with Guillaume Galliot, Executive Chef at the three-MICHELIN-starred Caprice in Hong Kong. Galliot joined forces with IDAM’s Executive Chef, Fabrice Rosso, to present a menu of French haute cuisine with South Asian influences. In partnership with Qatar Tourism, the collaboration celebrated the highest level of gastronomic mastery and creativity. Galliot is one of very few chefs to have achieved the most prestigious culinary honour in the world; he earned Caprice its third MICHELIN star in 2019 (retaining it ever since), an award so uncommon that fewer than 1% of all MICHELIN-rated restaurants achieve it. Rosso (who gained IDAM a MICHELIN star in 2025) and Gaillot together in the kitchen was an extremely rare and special ......read full article

Hadika Reopens at the NED Doha

Hadika at The Ned Doha proudly announces its reopening for the season this October. Tucked within the hotel’s serene courtyard, Hadika offers a tranquil al fresco experience celebrating the warmth and generosity of Levantine cuisine. The menu features hot and cold mezze and signature mains including Hummus Bil Laham, Muhammara, Chicken Liver with Pomegranate Molasses, Arabic Mixed Grill, Fattoush with dibs el-remman, Dawood Basha, and Kharof Mishwi. Desserts, drinks, and shisha complete the social, welcoming atmosphere. “Hadika captures the essence of the Levant, generous, flavorful, and full of life,” says the team at The Ned Doha. “As we reopen for the season, we look forward to welcoming both hotel guests and local residents to rediscover this timeless experience.”

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