Weekly Summary
Highlights of the Week in Travel and Hospitality
This week featured significant developments in the travel and hospitality sector, from new flight routes and hotel openings to collaborations aimed at enhancing customer experiences.
Reports
The New Forces Shaping China's Travel Landscape: Young Explorers and Senior Adventurers
An examination of the shifting demographics in China's outbound travel market, highlighting the rise of young adventurers and affluent seniors seeking meaningful experiences.
Events
Expo 2025 Osaka: A Showcase in Passion Tourism and Storytelling
Dr. Jens Thraenhart discusses the impact of Expo 2025 Osaka on global tourism and the strategies to attract high-yield travelers.
Middle East
Saudi Arabia Introduces VAT Refunds for Tourists
Saudi Arabia has initiated a new VAT refund program aimed at boosting tourism and shopping, allowing international visitors to claim 15% VAT on eligible purchases.
Agreements / Understandings / Contract Signings
The Lux Collective Expands in China with New Hotel
The Lux Collective has announced the signing of the LUX Shaoguan in Guangdong, marking a significant expansion into the Chinese market.
Asia
Expanding Tourism Ties Between India and the Philippines
The Philippine government's state visit to India focuses on enhancing tourism collaboration and other sectors.
Hospitality
Dusit International Expands Its Saudi Arabian Portfolio
Dusit International is set to unveil the dusitD2 Al Ahsa resort, catering to both business and leisure travelers, in a significant expansion in Saudi Arabia.
Business
“The biggest challenge today is managing the pace of change”: Emilie Groleau
An in-depth interview with Emilie Groleau discussing her role at AVIAREPS Group and the evolving challenges within the tourism industry.
Weekly Summary
Weekly Digest: Travel and Tourism Highlights
This week saw significant advancements in the travel and tourism sector, including new transportation routes and strategic partnerships enhancing global connectivity and services.
MICE
Tourism New Zealand Reports Record NZ$78.8 Million in Conference Bookings
The Tourism New Zealand Business Events team achieved a remarkable milestone in its 2025 financial year, surpassing its bid targets significantly.
Weekly Summary
Travel and Tourism Highlights of the Week
This week, the travel and tourism sector showcased significant initiatives including new service launches, sustainability efforts, and collaborations aimed at enhancing the traveler experience.
Asia
Philippines Commits to Support Unified Visa for ASEAN
The Philippines' tourism secretary confirmed the country's backing for a unified regional visa, ahead of hosting the ASEAN Summit in 2026.
Asia
Thailand Establishes Itself as a Safe Haven for Travelers
Amid global challenges, Thailand reaffirms its commitment to being a top travel destination by ensuring seamless transportation and high safety standards.
Asia
Tourism Malaysia Partners with HONOR Technology to Enhance Its Tourism Image
A new collaboration aims to elevate Malaysia's visibility in global tourism through innovative AI-driven campaigns.
Airlines and Aviation
Batik Air Launches New Route Enhancing Thailand-Malaysia Connectivity
Batik Air has introduced a direct flight route between Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, marking a pivotal step in boosting travel between Thailand and Malaysia.
Asia
Unlocking Opportunities in Vietnam: ITE HCMC 2025 Brings Buyers Together
The ITE HCMC 2025 Hosted Buyer Programme opens doors for attendees to explore Vietnam's vibrant travel market.
Middle East
Jordan's Tourism Surges: 2.717 Million Overnight Visitors in H1 2025
Jordan has experienced a remarkable growth in tourism during the first half of 2025, with a rise of 14% in overnight visitors compared to the previous year.
Asia
Philippine Government Allocates $6.8 Million for Tourism Projects
The allocation aims to fund various tourist initiatives across 21 locations in the Philippines.
Asia
Significant Rise in UK Visitors to Hong Kong
Hong Kong experiences a notable increase in British tourists in the first half of 2025, signaling a recovery in travel post-pandemic.
Tourism
ikhlas.com Launches Innovative Muslim-Friendly Travel Solutions
Discover how ikhlas.com is transforming travel experiences for Muslim travelers with new offerings and packages.
