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Mid East Info
28-02-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
MALT Congress 2025: A Resounding Success for Luxury Travel in the Middle East
Abu Dhabi, UAE – February 2025 – The 13th edition of the Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, hosted by the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB) in partnership with QnA International, concluded on February 19-20, 2025, marking another milestone in the Middle East's luxury travel and MICE industry. Held over two dynamic days, the event solidified its position as the region's premier platform for high-level networking, strategic collaborations, and industry innovation. The MALT Congress 2025 attracted top-level travel and hospitality stakeholders, including global travel suppliers, top-tier travel agencies, corporate travel heads, and luxury concierge services. The event's meticulously curated one-on-one meetings fostered meaningful business connections and delivered tangible outcomes for participants. Board member Anil Chandirani who is Group president of Satguru Travels remarked on the growing interest in travel. The Founder of the 35 year old travel conglomerate with operations across 80 countries says, ' Travel has changed and grown. People are exploring more and more. They are being adventurous with travel destinations, looking for upgrades' , Satguru Travels is a full fledged agency that owns the travel portal Travel Wings and has recently acquired Orient Tours as well as Trav Trips, a pure holiday organising company. Chandirani said the market has grown for both economy and luxury travel. Demand in all segments of the market has increased, even for business travel related to MICE in spite of the of the growing incidence of online meetings. High demand has led to travellers booking in advance. 'We have covered 30% of our revenue target for 2025 in January itself' he added. With over a decade of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Mr. Nasir, CEO of Al Naboodah Travel & TourismAgencies LLC and MALT Board member emphasized the value of networking at key events, saying, 'I consider myself lucky that I never missed all these events… this is my 13th year.' He highlighted the rapid recovery post-COVID in the region, noting, 'We recovered the business volumes at the level of 2019 much earlier than expected.' Mr. Nasir also observed the rise of online bookings in markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, stating, 'Online business has grown tremendously… Saudi Arabia has 75% penetration… and UAE has almost the same trend.' Despite this, he stressed the continued importance of travel agents for personalized support, especially for cancellations and refunds: 'People are now coming back to the travel agent to buy services… there's a responsible person now.' He noted the increasing popularity of luxury travel and shorter holiday durations, with travelers seeking more control over their plans: 'Luxury travel has picked up a lot after COVID… people are booking shorter holidays.' Lastly, he commented on rising costs in the industry, adding, 'Airline fares are going up, hotel rates are up, but the occupancy rate is 95%.'. Travel is here to stay in spite of higher costs. 'The whole concept of MICE and Meetings and Luxury Travel is evolving in the Middle East. Middle Eastern travellers used to have a standard pattern of traveling to certain specific location and not go anywhere else. But it's changing because luxury is no longer about glitz and glam. Or VIP service, it's about connecting with nature. It's about sustainability. It's about all they want is just to unwind. It's different things to different people. We are looking forward to setting the trend year after year.' He added. The Congress concluded with an award distribution recognizing excellence in various categories. * Mr, Mishal Kanoo won the Lifetime Achievement award. He highlighted the important role the travel industry plays in adding meaning to people's lives. List of awardees attached. Chris Flynn Executive Chairman of World Tourism Association for Culture & Heritage had a varied perspective on luxury travel. He said, 'We work with governments on how to build a better policy. He suggests that the success of a destination should not be based on volume but on attracting the right type of tourist who will value the experience and respect your culture. When the right profile of traveller is attracted for the right reasons in optimum numbers, the impact on the industry and host country are excellent.' Mohamed Islam Salama, Senior Regional Director Client Executive EMEA, CWT highlighted the increasing role of technology in travel and tourism. 'In our company we have lots of training on how to generate savings by using AI and it's a very sensitive subject, managed as such. As an American company we are very aware about protecting passenger information and not exposing it to an open environment like AI. We are also focused on sustainability and developing sophisticated techniques to measure the carbon footprint of travelers to meetings and events.' Sidh N.C., Director of QnA International reiterated the location of the MALT 2025 Congress. 'Abu Dhabi is a perfect location for this Congress. We are overwhelmed with the response.'
Zawya
28-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
MALT Congress 2025: A resounding success for luxury travel in the Middle East
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The 13th edition of the Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, hosted by the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB) in partnership with QnA International, concluded on February 19-20, 2025, marking another milestone in the Middle East's luxury travel and MICE industry. Held over two dynamic days, the event solidified its position as the region's premier platform for high-level networking, strategic collaborations, and industry innovation. The MALT Congress 2025 attracted top-level travel and hospitality stakeholders, including global travel suppliers, top-tier travel agencies, corporate travel heads, and luxury concierge services. The event's meticulously curated one-on-one meetings fostered meaningful business connections and delivered tangible outcomes for participants. Board member Anil Chandirani who is Group president of Satguru Travels remarked on the growing interest in travel. The Founder of the 35 year old travel conglomerate with operations across 80 countries says, ' Travel has changed and grown. People are exploring more and more. They are being adventurous with travel destinations, looking for upgrades' , Satguru Travels is a full fledged agency that owns the travel portal Travel Wings and has recently acquired Orient Tours as well as Trav Trips, a pure holiday organising company. Chandirani said the market has grown for both economy and luxury travel. Demand in all segments of the market has increased, even for business travel related to MICE in spite of the of the growing incidence of online meetings. High demand has led to travellers booking in advance. 'We have covered 30% of our revenue target for 2025 in January itself' he added. With over a decade of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Mr. Nasir, CEO of Al Naboodah Travel & TourismAgencies LLC and MALT Board member emphasized the value of networking at key events, saying, "I consider myself lucky that I never missed all these events... this is my 13th year." He highlighted the rapid recovery post-COVID in the region, noting, "We recovered the business volumes at the level of 2019 much earlier than expected." Mr. Nasir also observed the rise of online bookings in markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, stating, "Online business has grown tremendously... Saudi Arabia has 75% penetration... and UAE has almost the same trend." Despite this, he stressed the continued importance of travel agents for personalized support, especially for cancellations and refunds: "People are now coming back to the travel agent to buy services... there's a responsible person now." He noted the increasing popularity of luxury travel and shorter holiday durations, with travelers seeking more control over their plans: "Luxury travel has picked up a lot after COVID... people are booking shorter holidays." Lastly, he commented on rising costs in the industry, adding, "Airline fares are going up, hotel rates are up, but the occupancy rate is 95%.". Travel is here to stay in spite of higher costs. 'The whole concept of MICE and Meetings and Luxury Travel is evolving in the Middle East. Middle Eastern travellers used to have a standard pattern of traveling to certain specific location and not go anywhere else. But it's changing because luxury is no longer about glitz and glam. Or VIP service, it's about connecting with nature. It's about sustainability. It's about all they want is just to unwind. It's different things to different people. We are looking forward to setting the trend year after year.' He added. The Congress concluded with an award distribution recognizing excellence in various categories. * Mr, Mishal Kanoo won the Lifetime Achievement award. He highlighted the important role the travel industry plays in adding meaning to people's lives. List of awardees attached. Chris Flynn Executive Chairman of World Tourism Association for Culture & Heritage had a varied perspective on luxury travel. He said, 'We work with governments on how to build a better policy. He suggests that the success of a destination should not be based on volume but on attracting the right type of tourist who will value the experience and respect your culture. When the right profile of traveller is attracted for the right reasons in optimum numbers, the impact on the industry and host country are excellent.' Mohamed Islam Salama, Senior Regional Director Client Executive EMEA, CWT highlighted the increasing role of technology in travel and tourism. 'In our company we have lots of training on how to generate savings by using AI and it's a very sensitive subject, managed as such. As an American company we are very aware about protecting passenger information and not exposing it to an open environment like AI. We are also focused on sustainability and developing sophisticated techniques to measure the carbon footprint of travelers to meetings and events.' Sidh N.C., Director of QnA International reiterated the location of the MALT 2025 Congress. 'Abu Dhabi is a perfect location for this Congress. We are overwhelmed with the response.' About QnA International QnA International LLC is a global leader in B2B event organization, driving innovation in knowledge-sharing and business events for over a decade. Its diverse portfolio includes conferences, summits, and training programs across sectors such as trade finance, travel and tourism, technology, supply chain, destination weddings, and human resources. Based in Dubai, UAE, QnA International delivers world-class events in key global markets, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Mexico, India, Greece, Thailand, Georgia, and Indonesia, aligning with the evolving demands of the global economy.
Trade Arabia
20-02-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
MALT Congress unveils top trends for Mideast luxury travellers
The 13th Annual Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, opened in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (Feb 19) bringing together key players in the business, luxury travel and meetings industry to discuss the evolving trends shaping the future of outbound travel from the Middle East. Organised by QnA International and in partnership with the Host Sponsor - Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB), the event will continue tomorrow. The event highlights the region's growing influence on global luxury travel, driven by a 21.6% increase in outbound travel spending in 2024, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. The top 10 trends shaping Middle Eastern outbound MICE & luxury travel, highlighted by industry leaders at MALT Congress 2025 are: 1. Experiential Luxury: Beyond opulence: Middle Eastern travellers are shifting from traditional luxury to immersive, culturally rich experiences. Stephanie Tanpure, Vice President of Sales at Sands Resorts Macao, highlighted the importance of private VIP experiences and seamless comfort, including halal dining and Arabic-speaking staff. 'We have observed a strong shift toward high-end, immersive, and family-oriented travel among Middle Eastern visitors, with a focus on exclusivity and personalised experiences. Affluent travelers from the region increasingly seek private villa-style accommodations, VIP shopping, fine dining, and experiential travel that blends luxury with cultural and entertainment elements.' she adds. 2. Growing interest in winter holidays and cooler summer destinations: 'We are experiencing two main trends among Middle Eastern travellers into our destinations. First is a growing interest in winter holidays, particularly those centered on snow activities and the allure of the Northern Lights. In response, we carefully curate experiences that seamlessly blend the expectations of luxury, exceptional service, and premium amenities with the excitement of active, adventure-led getaways. Secondly, we are seeing increasing demand for cooler summer destinations, with travelers seeking mild climates where temperatures do not exceed 25°C," shares Erna Evudottir, Co-Founder & CEO of Destination Complete. 3. Multi-generational travel: Catering to all ages: Family travel remains a cornerstone, with a focus on multi-generational trips. Andrew Gomes, Head of Sales at Royal Caribbean International, noted the surge in demand for family-centric travel, with accommodations and activities designed to cater to diverse age groups. Sergey Mandryka, Business Development Manager at Viadi Group SA, also pointed out the growing interest in family trips that incorporate immersive experiences, like husky sledding, helicopter tours, and curated excursions, to enhance their stay. 4. Wellness and holistic travel: A growing priority: Wellness tourism is on the rise, with travellers prioritising health and well-being. 'A growing segment is seeking wellness-focused travel. This encompasses everything from yoga retreats and spa breaks to mindful travel experiences that connect travellers with nature and promote inner peace'' shares Jennifer Charlton: SVP Trade Sales & Business Development, UK & EMEA, Abercrombie and Kent. Natali Oniani, Business Development Coordinator at GNTA, also noted the growth in wellness tourism, particularly in destinations like Georgia that offer unique cultural and wellness experiences. 5. Hyper-personalisation: Tailored to perfection: Generic luxury is out; hyper-personalisation is in. Elena Kosmina, Managing Partner at Qunota Travel Limited, stressed the importance of tailored itineraries, private butlers, and exclusive access to meet the expectations of discerning travelers. 'We collaborate with luxury brands, wellness retreats, and eco-friendly operators to provide diverse, high-value experiences," shares Elena. Shafiul Syed, CEO of Royal Jet, emphasised the demand for premium private jet services with personalisation, ensuring privacy and uninterrupted connectivity. 6. Emerging Destinations: beyond the beaten path: "Middle Eastern travellers are among the most well-travelled individuals in the world, having extensively explored traditional luxury destinations. As a result, they are increasingly seeking new inspirations, unique experiences, and untouched destinations that offer something beyond the familiar," shares Robin Eichmueller, Regional Director of Sales, Orascom Hotel Management. Carlos Ruiz Gonzalez, Director of Spain Tourist Office for GCC Countries, reaffirmed the allure of new vistas and highlighted the promotion of eco-friendly travel and lesser-known regions in Spain. A&K's Jennifer Charlton: SVP Trade Sales & Business Development, UK & EMEA, adds: 'While traditional European hotspots remain popular, Middle Eastern travellers are increasingly adventurous, seeking out new and undiscovered destinations.' 7. Culinary Tourism: A feast for the senses: Food is central to the travel experience indicated by a growing interest in culinary tourism. Andrew Gomes also emphasized the role of halal-friendly dining and immersive cultural experiences for Middle Eastern travelers on their most popular sailings. "The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has launched a transformative initiative to establish Hong Kong as a top Muslim-friendly travel destination with a focus on food offerings as Muslim-friendly or halal-certified, along with assessing and certifying attractions, hotels, MICE venues," shares Becky Ip, Deputy Executive Director Hong Kong Tourism Board. 8. Sustainability and responsible travel: A new mindset: Sustainability is becoming a key consideration. Carlos Ruiz Gonzalez emphasised the promotion of eco-friendly destinations and authentic cultural experiences. Erna Evudottir, Co-Founder & CEO of Destination Complete, also noted the growing interest in sustainable and culturally rich Scandinavian luxury experiences. Another growing trend is of trips around global events, such as sports championships, cultural festivals, and seasonal highlights like cherry blossom viewing or winter escapes. 'While Eid and regional holidays remain peak travel periods, travel in the colder season is increasing,' adds Elena Kosmina, Managing Partner, Q Travels. 9. Luxury shopping and high-end retail: A key attraction: Luxury shopping remains a significant draw. Stephanie Tanpure highlighted the importance of high-end retail destinations, such as The Shoppes at Londoner Macao, offering VIP services and private shopping experiences. Natali Oniani concurred pointing out the growth of high-end retail and luxury hospitality in Georgia. 10. Tech-Driven Convenience: Seamless connectivity: Middle Eastern travellers expect uninterrupted connectivity and advanced technological amenities. Shafiul Syed noted the importance of in-flight connectivity and personalised entertainment. Becky Ip, Deputy Executive Director of Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), also emphasised the need for cultural inclusivity and luxury experiences, supported by seamless technological integration. Summarising the comprehensive industry feedback, and reflecting on the upcoming event, Sidh NC, Director of QnA International, says: 'Future travellers will look beyond luxury accommodations — they will crave immersive, exclusive, and seamless experiences that transform the very idea of travel.' The highlighted trends, along with key discussions such as the evolution of travel through heritage, innovation, and shifting expectations; the art of curating authentic, luxurious, and holistic hospitality experiences; and the rise of the Middle East as a dominant force in outbound luxury travel, will be explored in depth during the two-day conference in Abu Dhabi. - TradeArabia News Service
Web Release
17-02-2025
- Business
- Web Release
The 13th Annual MALT Congress Unveils Top 10 Trends for Middle East Luxury Travellers
The 13th Annual Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, taking place in Abu Dhabi on 19th & 20th February 2025, will bring together key players in the business, luxury travel and meetings industry to discuss the evolving trends shaping the future of outbound travel from the Middle East. Organized by QnA International and in partnership with the Host Sponsor – Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB), the event will highlight the region's growing influence on global luxury travel, driven by a 21.6% increase in outbound travel spending in 2024, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council*. The top 10 trends shaping Middle Eastern outbound MICE & luxury travel, highlighted by industry leaders at MALT Congress 2025 are: Experiential Luxury: Beyond Opulence Middle Eastern travelers are shifting from traditional luxury to immersive, culturally rich experiences. Stephanie Tanpure, Vice President of Sales at Sands Resorts Macao, highlighted the importance of private VIP experiences and seamless comfort, including halal dining and Arabic-speaking staff. ' We have observed a strong shift toward high-end, immersive, and family-oriented travel among Middle Eastern visitors, with a focus on exclusivity and personalised experiences. Affluent travelers from the region increasingly seek private villa-style accommodations, VIP shopping, fine dining, and experiential travel that blends luxury with cultural and entertainment elements. ' she adds. Growing interest in winter holidays and cooler summer destinations ' We are experiencing two main trends among Middle Eastern travelers into our destinations. First is a growing interest in winter holidays, particularly those centered on snow activities and the allure of the Northern Lights. In response, we carefully curate experiences that seamlessly blend the expectations of luxury, exceptional service, and premium amenities with the excitement of active, adventure-led getaways. Secondly, we are seeing increasing demand for cooler summer destinations, with travelers seeking mild climates where temperatures do not exceed 25°C, '' shares Erna Evudottir, Co-Founder & CEO of Destination Complete Multi-Generational Travel: Catering to All Ages Family travel remains a cornerstone, with a focus on multi-generational trips. Andrew Gomes, Head of Sales at Royal Caribbean International, noted the surge in demand for family-centric travel, with accommodations and activities designed to cater to diverse age groups. Sergey Mandryka, Business Development Manager at Viadi Group SA, also pointed out the growing interest in family trips that incorporate immersive experiences, like husky sledding, helicopter tours, and curated excursions, to enhance their stay. Wellness and Holistic Travel: A Growing Priority Wellness tourism is on the rise, with travelers prioritizing health and well-being. 'A growing segment is seeking wellness-focused travel. This encompasses everything from yoga retreats and spa breaks to mindful travel experiences that connect travellers with nature and promote inner peace'' shares Jennifer Charlton: SVP Trade Sales & Business Development, UK & EMEA, Abercrombie and Kent. Natali Oniani, Business Development Coordinator at GNTA, also noted the growth in wellness tourism, particularly in destinations like Georgia that offer unique cultural and wellness experiences. Hyper-Personalization: Tailored to Perfection Generic luxury is out; hyper-personalization is in. Elena Kosmina, Managing Partner at Qunota Travel Limited, stressed the importance of tailored itineraries, private butlers, and exclusive access to meet the expectations of discerning travelers. 'We collaborate with luxury brands, wellness retreats, and eco-friendly operators to provide diverse, high-value experiences' ' shares Elena. Shafiul Syed, CEO of Royal Jet, emphasized the demand for premium private jet services with personalization, ensuring privacy and uninterrupted connectivity. Emerging Destinations: Beyond the Beaten Path ''Middle Eastern travelers are among the most well-travelled individuals in the world, having extensively explored traditional luxury destinations. As a result, they are increasingly seeking new inspirations, unique experiences, and untouched destinations that offer something beyond the familiar,'' shares Robin Eichmueller, Regional Director of Sales, Orascom Hotel Management. Carlos Ruiz Gonzalez, Director of Spain Tourist Office for GCC Countries, reaffirmed the allure of new vistas and highlighted the promotion of eco-friendly travel and lesser-known regions in Spain. A&K's Jennifer Charlton: SVP Trade Sales & Business Development, UK & EMEA, adds ' While traditional European hotspots remain popular, Middle Eastern travellers are increasingly adventurous, seeking out new and undiscovered destinations .' Culinary Tourism: A Feast for the Senses Food is central to the travel experience indicated by a growing interest in culinary tourism. Andrew Gomes also emphasized the role of halal-friendly dining and immersive cultural experiences for Middle Eastern travelers on their most popular sailings. ' 'The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has launched a transformative initiative to establish Hong Kong as a top Muslim-friendly travel destination with a focus on food o ? erings as Muslim-friendly or halal-certi?ed, along with assessing and certifying attractions, hotels, MICE venues'' shares Becky Ip: Deputy Executive Director Hong Kong Tourism Board Sustainability and Responsible Travel: A New Mindset Sustainability is becoming a key consideration. Carlos Ruiz Gonzalez emphasized the promotion of eco-friendly destinations and authentic cultural experiences. Erna Evudottir, Co-Founder & CEO of Destination Complete, also noted the growing interest in sustainable and culturally rich Scandinavian luxury experiences. Another growing trend is of trips around global events, such as sports championships, cultural festivals, and seasonal highlights like cherry blossom viewing or winter escapes. ' While Eid and regional holidays remain peak travel periods, travel in the colder season is increasing,' adds Elena Kosmina: Managing Partner, Q Travels Luxury Shopping and High-End Retail: A Key Attraction Luxury shopping remains a significant draw. Stephanie Tanpure highlighted the importance of high-end retail destinations, such as The Shoppes at Londoner Macao, offering VIP services and private shopping experiences. Natali Oniani concurred pointing out the growth of high-end retail and luxury hospitality in Georgia. Tech-Driven Convenience: Seamless Connectivity Middle Eastern travelers expect uninterrupted connectivity and advanced technological amenities. Shafiul Syed noted the importance of in-flight connectivity and personalized entertainment. Becky Ip, Deputy Executive Director of Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), also emphasized the need for cultural inclusivity and luxury experiences, supported by seamless technological integration. Summarizing the comprehensive industry feedback, and reflecting on the upcoming event, Mr. Sidh NC, Director of QnA International, says, 'F uture travellers will look beyond luxury accommodations—they will crave immersive, exclusive, and seamless experiences that transform the very idea of travel .' The highlighted trends, along with key discussions such as the evolution of travel through heritage, innovation, and shifting expectations; the art of curating authentic, luxurious, and holistic hospitality experiences; and the rise of the Middle East as a dominant force in outbound luxury travel, will be explored in depth during the two-day conference in Abu Dhabi. *
Mid East Info
17-02-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
The 13th Annual MALT Congress Unveils Top 10 Trends for Middle East Luxury Travellers - Middle East Business News and Information
Abu Dhabi: The 13th Annual Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, taking place in Abu Dhabi on 19 th & 20 th February 2025, will bring together key players in the business, luxury travel and meetings industry to discuss the evolving trends shaping the future of outbound travel from the Middle East. Organized by QnA International and in partnership with the Host Sponsor – Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB), the event will highlight the region's growing influence on global luxury travel, driven by a 21.6% increase in outbound travel spending in 2024, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council*. The top 10 trends shaping Middle Eastern outbound MICE & luxury travel, highlighted by industry leaders at MALT Congress 2025 are: Experiential Luxury: Beyond Opulence Middle Eastern travelers are shifting from traditional luxury to immersive, culturally rich experiences. Stephanie Tanpure, Vice President of Sales at Sands Resorts Macao , highlighted the importance of private VIP experiences and seamless comfort, including halal dining and Arabic-speaking staff. ' We have observed a strong shift toward high-end, immersive, and family-oriented travel among Middle Eastern visitors , with a focus on exclusivity and personalised experiences. Affluent travelers from the region increasingly seek private villa-style accommodations, VIP shopping, fine dining, and experiential travel that blends luxury with cultural and entertainment elements. ' she adds. Growing interest in winter holidays and cooler summer destinations ' We are experiencing two main trends among Middle Eastern travelers into our destinations. First is a growing interest in winter holidays, particularly those centered on snow activities and the allure of the Northern Lights. In response, we carefully curate experiences that seamlessly blend the expectations of luxury, exceptional service, and premium amenities with the excitement of active, adventure-led getaways. Secondly, we are seeing increasing demand for cooler summer destinations, with travelers seeking mild climates where temperatures do not exceed 25°C, '' shares Erna Evudottir, Co-Founder & CEO of Destination Complete Multi-Generational Travel: Catering to All Ages Family travel remains a cornerstone, with a focus on multi-generational trips. Andrew Gomes, Head of Sales at Royal Caribbean International , noted the surge in demand for family-centric travel, with accommodations and activities designed to cater to diverse age groups. Sergey Mandryka, Business Development Manager at Viadi Group SA , also pointed out the growing interest in family trips that incorporate immersive experiences, like husky sledding, helicopter tours, and curated excursions, to enhance their stay. Wellness and Holistic Travel: A Growing Priority Wellness tourism is on the rise, with travelers prioritizing health and well-being. 'A growing segment is seeking wellness-focused travel. This encompasses everything from yoga retreats and spa breaks to mindful travel experiences that connect travellers with nature and promote inner peace'' shares Jennifer Charlton: SVP Trade Sales & Business Development, UK & EMEA, Abercrombie and Kent. Natali Oniani, Business Development Coordinator at GNTA , also noted the growth in wellness tourism, particularly in destinations like Georgia that offer unique cultural and wellness experiences. Hyper-Personalization: Tailored to Perfection Generic luxury is out; hyper-personalization is in. Elena Kosmina, Managing Partner at Qunota Travel Limited , stressed the importance of tailored itineraries, private butlers, and exclusive access to meet the expectations of discerning travelers. 'We collaborate with luxury brands, wellness retreats, and eco-friendly operators to provide diverse, high-value experiences' ' shares Elena. Shafiul Syed, CEO of Royal Jet , emphasized the demand for premium private jet services with personalization, ensuring privacy and uninterrupted connectivity. Emerging Destinations: Beyond the Beaten Path ''Middle Eastern travelers are among the most well-travelled individuals in the world, having extensively explored traditional luxury destinations. As a result, they are increasingly seeking new inspirations, unique experiences, and untouched destinations that offer something beyond the familiar,'' shares Robin Eichmueller, Regional Director of Sales, Orascom Hotel Management. Carlos Ruiz Gonzalez, Director of Spain Tourist Office for GCC Countries , reaffirmed the allure of new vistas and highlighted the promotion of eco-friendly travel and lesser-known regions in Spain. A&K's Jennifer Charlton: SVP Trade Sales & Business Development, UK & EMEA, adds ' While traditional European hotspots remain popular, Middle Eastern travellers are increasingly adventurous, seeking out new and undiscovered destinations .' Culinary Tourism: A Feast for the Senses Food is central to the travel experience indicated by a growing interest in culinary tourism. Andrew Gomes also emphasized the role of halal-friendly dining and immersive cultural experiences for Middle Eastern travelers on their most popular sailings. ' 'The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has launched a transformative initiative to establish Hong Kong as a top Muslim-friendly travel destination with a focus on food o ff erings as Muslim-friendly or halal-certified, along with assessing and certifying attractions, hotels, MICE venues'' shares Becky Ip: Deputy Executive Director Hong Kong Tourism Board Sustainability and Responsible Travel: A New Mindset Sustainability is becoming a key consideration. Carlos Ruiz Gonzalez emphasized the promotion of eco-friendly destinations and authentic cultural experiences. Erna Evudottir, Co-Founder & CEO of Destination Complete , also noted the growing interest in sustainable and culturally rich Scandinavian luxury experiences. Another growing trend is of trips around global events, such as sports championships, cultural festivals, and seasonal highlights like cherry blossom viewing or winter escapes. ' While Eid and regional holidays remain peak travel periods, travel in the colder season is increasing,' adds Elena Kosmina: Managing Partner, Q Travels Luxury Shopping and High-End Retail: A Key Attraction Luxury shopping remains a significant draw. Stephanie Tanpure highlighted the importance of high-end retail destinations, such as The Shoppes at Londoner Macao, offering VIP services and private shopping experiences. Natali Oniani concurred pointing out the growth of high-end retail and luxury hospitality in Georgia. Tech-Driven Convenience: Seamless Connectivity Middle Eastern travelers expect uninterrupted connectivity and advanced technological amenities. Shafiul Syed noted the importance of in-flight connectivity and personalized entertainment. Becky Ip, Deputy Executive Director of Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) , also emphasized the need for cultural inclusivity and luxury experiences, supported by seamless technological integration. Summarizing the comprehensive industry feedback, and reflecting on the upcoming event, Mr. Sidh NC, Director of QnA International , says, 'F uture travellers will look beyond luxury accommodations—they will crave immersive, exclusive, and seamless experiences that transform the very idea of travel .' The highlighted trends, along with key discussions such as the evolution of travel through heritage, innovation, and shifting expectations; the art of curating authentic, luxurious, and holistic hospitality experiences; and the rise of the Middle East as a dominant force in outbound luxury travel, will be explored in depth during the two-day conference in Abu Dhabi.
