The World Governments Summit Organisation (WGSO) and World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) have launched a strategic partnership to strengthen global cooperation on the future of travel and tourism. The agreement will deepen collaboration between governments and the private sector while supporting sustainable growth and forward-looking policymaking. The organisations will exchange knowledge and best practices and collaborate on research, studies and joint initiatives. The World Governments Summit will also host dialogues bringing together government officials, business leaders and experts. Key areas of focus include investment, job creation, global connectivity, resilience and competitiveness across the international tourism sector.

Marriott International has signed an agreement with Misr Italia Properties and People & Places to develop nine properties with more than 1,500 keys across Egypt. The projects will span hotels, resorts and branded residences under brands including The Ritz-Carlton, The Luxury Collection and Autograph Collection. Developments are planned across Ras Al Hekma, West Cairo, Ain Sokhna and East Cairo, including a 170-room Ritz-Carlton hotel with 268 residences. The partnership represents investments exceeding EGP 56.7 billion and is expected to create around 6,000 jobs, while supporting Egypt’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.

ACCIONA Cultura has completed Riyadh Air’s Hafawa Lounge at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, marking a milestone ahead of the new Saudi national airline’s launch. Spanning 2,000 sqm, the premium lounge accommodates up to 370 guests and combines advanced technology, refined materials and Saudi cultural inspiration. Designed by Yabu Pushelberg, the project saw ACCIONA Cultura lead technical design, project management and execution of interior works.

SAL Logistics Services has become the first company in Saudi Arabia and the second in the Middle East and North Africa to receive the IATA Security Management System (SeMS) Level 1 certification. Awarded by the International Air Transport Association, the certification recognises SAL’s security management framework across its cargo handling and ground operations.

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry has discussed measures to strengthen tourism sustainability and hospitality standards, alongside a new incentive package from Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA). Running from June through August, the programme provides financial and operational incentives designed to reduce hotel operating costs, improve efficiency and encourage sustainable practices. The initiative also aims to strengthen collaboration between government entities and hospitality businesses.  

Virtuoso honoured leading travel advisors and partners at its Global Stewardship Awards during the Under One Sky lunch at Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas. The initiative expands Virtuoso’s sustainability focus to encompass positive impacts on communities, cultures, destinations and economies. Winners included Fernando Cervigon of Knightsbridge Circle, Goya Travel, and Beyond Tanzania, Nomadic Expeditions, Wilderness and Dubrovnik Tourist Board. 

Marjan and Wynn Resorts have broken ground on Janu Al Marjan Island, their second joint venture on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. Scheduled to open in 2029, the development will be Janu’s first property in the Emirate and its second destination in the Middle East. Designed by SCDA Architects, it will feature a luxury hotel, branded residences and wellness-led experiences focused on connection and contemporary living.

Saudi fintech company barq and Riyadh Air have signed a strategic agreement to develop an integrated payment technology solution for the airline. Under the partnership, barq will serve as Riyadh Air’s strategic payment technology partner, supporting implementation, integration and ongoing platform development. The solution will provide secure and scalable payment capabilities across the transaction lifecycle, while offering passengers flexible payment options across multiple channels.