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Check FAQAbout Melinda
Melinda Healy is a journalist based in Sydney, Australia. She has 20 years of industry experience and has worked within the Australian and Middle Eastern media. Mel is a contributor for Conde Nast Traveler, Culture Trip and a destination expert for Telegraph Travel. She has written for publications including Harper's Bazaar Arabia, Etihad's Atlas online, Mandarin Oriental's MO Magazine, Beau Monde Traveler UK, The Times, The Independent, Ultratravel Middle East and Family Traveller (UK). Available for content and copy work no matter the topic.
Portfolio
Dubai to become a more walkable city
Dubai is set to transform into a pedestrian-friendly city by 2040 with the approval of the Dubai Walk Master Plan by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. The plan aims to establish a 6,500km network of pathways, enhancing accessibility, safety, and comfort. It includes constructing new walkways, rehabilitating existing ones, and developing pedestrian bridges and underpasses. The initiative seeks to increase pedestrian mobility and integrate greenery, art, and commercial spaces, positioning Dubai as a leading sustainable city.
UAE and Saudi score highly in Top 100
The UAE and Saudi Arabia have achieved high rankings in the Top 100 Travel City Index by Euromonitor International, with Dubai leading in international arrivals and cultural tourism. Sharjah and Abu Dhabi excel in health, safety, and economic performance, while Medina emerges as a significant religious and cultural destination in Saudi Arabia. Despite positive recovery projections, challenges such as labor shortages and geopolitical tensions may limit city growth. The trend towards less-traveled destinations and personalized experiences is expected to rise.
Waldorf Astoria hotel brand to debut in Bahrain
Hilton is set to introduce the Waldorf Astoria brand to Bahrain with a new hotel in Manama, in partnership with Al Sorouh Hospitality Development Real Estate. The Waldorf Astoria Bahrain Bay will feature luxury amenities and is strategically located near key commercial and leisure areas. This development is part of a broader expansion strategy by Hilton and strengthens its partnership with the Alshaya Group, which already includes several hotels in the region. The new hotel aims to enhance Bahrain's tourism offerings and attract both shoppers and travelers.
Hyatt to open 50 new hotels by 2026
Hyatt plans to expand its luxury and lifestyle hotel portfolio by opening over 50 new hotels globally by 2026. Key projects include the Miraval the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia, marking the brand's international debut, and new Park Hyatt locations in Kuala Lumpur and Johannesburg. The expansion follows recent successful openings and acquisitions, such as Mr & Mrs Smith and Standard International, enhancing Hyatt's offerings in the luxury and lifestyle segments. The new hotels aim to provide unique and curated experiences for luxury seekers and original design and cultural programming for lifestyle travelers.
Saudi Arabia’s King Fahd airport sets new passenger record
King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, experienced a significant increase in air traffic, welcoming over 12 million passengers from January to mid-December 2024, a 15% rise from the previous year. The airport also recorded over 99,000 flights, marking a 5% increase. Daily passenger numbers exceeded 50,000, with a record 374 flights on June 13, 2024. These achievements underscore the airport's growing importance in the region.
4 Last-minute New Year holiday destinations recommended by Dnata
Dnata, a leading UAE travel agent, recommends last-minute New Year holiday destinations for GCC travelers, highlighting the Maldives and Mauritius. These destinations offer visa-free entry, short flights, and luxurious experiences. Nova Maldives, Long Beach Mauritius, Kandima Maldives, and Sugar Beach Mauritius are featured with special offers, including discounts and inclusive packages, catering to various preferences and ensuring a memorable holiday experience.
Sunset Hotels boosts global portfolio with Bahrain METT Resort
Sunset Hotels & Resorts is set to expand its METT brand with the launch of METT Hotel & Residences in Bahrain, in partnership with Esterad Amwaj, and CASA METT in Spain. The Bahrain property will feature 220 keys, including villas and residences, and amenities like Isola Beach club and Raise Fitness gym. This expansion aligns with the company's goal to manage or operate 20 properties by 2026. Antonio Gonzalez, Chairman and Group CEO, emphasizes the brand's commitment to delivering luxury lifestyle experiences globally.
British Airways suspends Abu Dhabi to Heathrow summer service
British Airways has announced the suspension of its summer 2025 flights between Abu Dhabi and Heathrow, with services set to resume in October 2025. This decision follows a recent resumption of flights after a pandemic-induced hiatus. The suspension is linked to engine issues affecting Boeing 787 aircraft, with delays in engine and parts delivery from Rolls-Royce. Passengers can still travel to and from Dubai during this period. The International Air Transport Association guidelines are cited as a reason for the suspension, though specific details remain unconfirmed.
Saudi’s Flynas carrier to launch Dammam-Red Sea domestic flights
Flynas, a low-cost Saudi Arabian airline, will begin direct domestic flights from Dammam to the Red Sea International Airport starting December 28, 2024. This expansion aligns with the airline's growth strategy and Saudi Arabia's national aviation objectives. The Red Sea International Airport supports the Red Sea Project, part of Saudi Vision 2030. Flynas, operational since 2007, aims to expand its reach to 165 destinations by 2030, currently offering over 1,500 weekly flights to more than 70 destinations.
VIDEO: Kevin Hart stars in Qatar Airways in-flight safety video
Qatar Airways has unveiled a new in-flight safety video featuring comedian Kevin Hart, who serves as the airline's Global Brand Ambassador. Directed by Tim Story, the video includes appearances by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and other internet personalities. The initiative aims to capture passengers' attention by using popular celebrities, addressing the issue of passengers often ignoring safety videos. The video will be available on all Qatar Airways flights starting January 2025.
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