Technology fragmentation has emerged as the most significant challenge facing the travel industry, according to a survey conducted by HBX Group during MarketHub Asia 2026. The survey, which gathered insights from over 450 industry leaders, revealed that 34% of respondents identified the complexity of integrating various technological systems as the sector’s primary obstacle, surpassing concerns about demand.

The survey highlighted that whilst volatility and cost pressures were cited by 24% of respondents, and talent shortages by 15%, the difficulty in orchestrating complex systems across channels and partners remains the foremost concern. Additionally, 31% of participants pointed to intensifying competition as a barrier to growth, with technology integration complexity following closely at 27%.

Despite these challenges, there is a moderate level of confidence in existing technology stacks, with respondents rating their confidence at an average of 3.7 out of 5. However, only 19% expressed the highest level of confidence, indicating room for improvement. Investment priorities for 2026 show a strong focus on AI, data, and automation, with 38% of respondents planning to allocate budgets towards these areas.

Javier Cabrerizo, Chief Strategy, Transformation & AI Officer at HBX Group, noted, “The industry is no longer constrained by demand, it is constrained by complexity. Integration is the real competitive advantage.”

The findings suggest that the travel sector is transitioning from a recovery mindset to a phase of structural reinvention, where integration and scalable AI will be crucial for future growth

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

Emirates Skywards is celebrating Ramadan by offering its members the opportunity to win a share of 2 million Skywards Miles. Throughout the month, members who spend with Skywards Everyday or Skywards Miles Mall will be entered into a prize draw, with 20 winners each receiving 100,000 Skywards Miles. Additionally, members will earn 25 bonus Miles on all purchases.

Members can maximise their rewards by spending at over 500 brands, including Hind Aloud, La Marquise Jewellery, and Organic Foods & Café, using the Skywards Everyday app. Each transaction with a saved payment card during Ramadan automatically enters members into the draw. New users of Skywards Everyday can earn four times the Miles on their first transaction with a saved Visa Card.

For those shopping online, the Skywards Miles Mall UAE offers 25 bonus Miles on all spends at participating brands like Amazon.ae and Deliveroo. Spending $27 (AED 100) on the mall platform also enters members into a draw for a chance to win 100,000 Miles, with 10 winners selected. New users can earn an additional 2,000 bonus Miles on their first transaction of at least $50 (AED 184) with a Visa Card.

Emirates Skywards, recognised as the Best Global Airline Loyalty Programme at the International Loyalty Awards 2025, continues to provide its 37 million members with exclusive rewards and benefits. Members can redeem Miles for flight tickets, upgrades, hotel stays, and unique experiences. For more details, visit the Emirates Skywards website

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

Oceania Cruises is set to elevate luxury cruising in Australia, confirming that Oceania Vista—the first ship in its new Allura class—will sail an extended season in Australia and New Zealand in 2027/28. The move marks a major moment for the brand locally, bringing one of its newest and most design‑forward ships to a market that has rapidly become Oceania’s second largest worldwide.

Vista will replace Oceania Riviera, which concludes her debut Australian season this month and returns again next year before redeploying to Alaska. Riviera’s success has paved the way for Oceania to send an even more contemporary, luxury‑focused vessel to the region.

Vista: A New Era of Luxury for Oceania

When Vista launched, she signalled a bold evolution for Oceania Cruises. Long known for its upper‑premium positioning, the brand used Vista to step confidently into the world of modern luxury cruising.

Key features include:

•              A dramatic, light‑filled atrium

•              Ralph Lauren‑designed public spaces

•              Enhanced suite categories

•              Elevated dining concepts and expanded culinary venues

Vista embodies Oceania’s refreshed identity—one that now proudly sits within the luxury cruise category. Bringing her to Australia is a clear vote of confidence in the region’s appetite for premium travel experiences.

Riviera’s Strong Season Sets the Stage

Riviera’s inaugural Australian season has been a standout success. Cruise Passenger’s recent visit found the 1,238‑guest ship in exceptional condition, with guests praising her intimate atmosphere, spacious design, and refined, adults‑focused onboard experience.

Oceania’s new 18+ policy has been warmly received, reinforcing Riviera’s appeal as a ship designed for grown‑up cruising—no waterslides, no theme‑park distractions, just relaxed elegance and destination‑rich itineraries.

A Culinary Reputation That Still Leads the Industry

Riviera continues to uphold Oceania’s reputation as the “foodie line”, with:

•              One chef for every 10 guests

•              No surcharges for specialty dining

•              Signature dishes from Jacques Pépin’s culinary legacy

•              A diverse menu spanning Toscana, Red Ginger, Polo Grill, and more

Oceania’s updated fare structure also resonates strongly with Australian travellers, offering inclusions such as specialty coffees, soft drinks, bottled water, smoothies, milkshakes, and even complimentary laundry access. Guests can choose between shore excursion credit or a wine‑and‑champagne package at booking.

Vista’s Arrival Signals Growing Confidence in Australia

With eight ships currently sailing and Oceania Sonata joining the fleet in 2027, the brand is expanding rapidly. Deploying Vista to Australia reflects a broader industry trend: luxury cruise lines are increasingly targeting Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific as demand for high‑yield itineraries grows.

Riviera will return for one more season next year, with limited availability remaining for her current sailings. For travellers wanting to experience the ship that helped cement Oceania’s presence in Australia, the window is narrowing.

Vista, meanwhile, represents the next chapter—a ship that doesn’t just continue Oceania’s evolution, but defines it.

For more information, visit Oceania Cruises https://www.oceaniacruises.com/

PONANT EXPLORATIONS is bringing its highly anticipated 2026 Discovery Sessions to Australia this March and April, offering travellers a rare chance to step inside the world of luxury small‑ship and expedition cruising. Hosted across Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne, these immersive events will showcase what’s new across the fleet and itineraries, while giving guests access to exclusive, event‑only booking benefits.

Designed for curious travellers and cruise enthusiasts alike, the Discovery Sessions provide insight, inspiration and practical advice to help guests find the perfect voyage for their next adventure at sea.

Discover PONANT EXPLORATIONS in five Australian cities

Each PONANT Discovery Session is hosted by the line’s destination specialists and enriched with insights from past guests who have already sailed to some of the world’s most remote and remarkable regions. Guests will be guided through the breadth of PONANT’s expedition and luxury small‑ship portfolio, from icy polar frontiers to warm‑water paradises and culturally rich coastlines.

Throughout the session, travellers can explore:

• Polar expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctica
• Australian voyages, including the Kimberley and Australia’s West Coast
• Iconic regions such as the Mediterranean, Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands

This makes the Discovery Sessions ideal for guests considering their first expedition cruise as well as seasoned travellers looking to plan an in‑depth itinerary for 2027 and 2028.

Expert speakers on polar and warm‑water destinations

Every event features two expert speakers: one specialising in the polar regions and one dedicated to warm‑water and cultural destinations. Together, they share first‑hand stories from on board, highlight signature itineraries and offer practical tips on choosing the right voyage.

From what to pack for Antarctica to how best to experience coral reefs, remote atolls or Kimberley waterfalls, guests will gain useful guidance tailored to their interests and travel style. This format allows attendees to compare very different styles of expedition cruising in a single, relaxed session.

Immersive event experience: maps, inspiration and canapés

PONANT EXPLORATIONS has designed the Discovery Sessions to feel like a journey in their own right. Guests are invited to:

• Explore interactive destination maps
• Dive into immersive content at the Inspiration Station
• Enjoy fine canapés, refreshments and entertainment offering a taste of life on board

This combination of expert presentation, visual storytelling and hospitality helps guests truly imagine themselves on a PONANT voyage—whether that’s sailing past icebergs, Zodiac‑cruising through remote fjords or island‑hopping in tropical seas.

Exclusive event‑only offers for attendees

One of the biggest drawcards of the 2026 Discovery Sessions is the suite of exclusive, limited‑time incentives available only to attendees. Guests who register and attend can access:

Book early and save up to 30% on 2027 and 2028 voyages, plus receive a €300 shipboard credit per person for all attendees*

Save 5% on staterooms and 10% on suites for departures within 12 months following the event*

Entry into a prize draw to win a $1,000 AUD voucher toward their next PONANT EXPLORATIONS voyage, with winners announced live at each session*

Past guests can also share a memorable wildlife moment from a previous PONANT voyage for the chance to win one of three additional $1,000 vouchers*

For travellers already considering a future expedition or small‑ship cruise, these offers make the Discovery Sessions one of the most advantageous times to secure a cabin.

How to register for PONANT’s 2026 Discovery Sessions

Capacity at each venue is limited, and guests are encouraged to register early to secure their place. Registration and full event details—including dates, times and city‑specific information—are available via PONANT EXPLORATIONS’ dedicated event website.

Prospective guests can review the program, choose their preferred city and session, and confirm attendance online, making it easy to align the event with existing travel or work commitments.

Scenic Group has launched Scenic & Emerald Rewards, a new global loyalty program that unifies its previous Scenic Club and EmeraldEXPLORER schemes into one streamlined platform for returning guests. The program is designed to reward loyal travellers across the group’s full portfolio of luxury yachts, river cruises and escorted land journeys, spanning all seven continents and more than 100 countries.

One loyalty account across Scenic and Emerald

Under the new Scenic & Emerald Rewards structure, all existing status points from Scenic Club and EmeraldEXPLORER have been consolidated into a single account, giving members a clearer, more seamless way to earn and redeem benefits on every booking. Membership remains free for guests returning from their first Scenic or Emerald journey, making it easy for repeat travellers to start enjoying rewards straight away.

Scenic Group Founder & Chairman Glen Moroney says the integrated program represents a major evolution in how the company recognises its most loyal guests, highlighting that few travel brands can offer earning and recognition across ocean, river and land journeys at this scale.

Four simple tiers: Gold, Diamond, Emerald, Chairman’s Club

To simplify recognition, Scenic & Emerald Rewards introduces a refined four‑tier structure: Gold, Diamond, Emerald and Chairman’s Club. Thresholds have been realigned and benefits enhanced at each level, ensuring that as members move up through the tiers they receive stronger privileges, added recognition and more elevated experiences.

Existing members have been automatically transitioned into the new framework, with points balances adjusted where tiers were merged so guests keep, or gain, their tier benefits without needing to take any action. The focus, Scenic Group says, is on making loyalty easier to understand while still feeling aspirational and rewarding.

MyRewards: 1% back toward future journeys

A standout feature of the new program is MyRewards, which assigns a real monetary value to member bookings. For eligible new bookings made directly with Scenic Group, members earn 1% of the booking value (excluding taxes, fees and certain charges) as a credit that can be redeemed toward future Scenic or Emerald cruises or land journeys.

MyRewards balances are applied to a member’s account after travel and can then be used as part payment on a subsequent journey, giving guests a tangible way to see their loyalty translate into savings on their next trip.

Designed with guests and advisors in mind

Scenic & Emerald Rewards was developed using extensive feedback from guests and travel advisors, with a brief to simplify the previous set of programs and make benefits more transparent and meaningful. The unified program is intended to deliver clearer communication, more relevant recognition and easier access to rewards, no matter whether members choose a European river sailing, an ultra‑luxury yacht voyage or an escorted land tour.

For travellers who enjoy mixing river, ocean and land experiences across Scenic and Emerald’s brands, the new loyalty framework provides one cross‑portfolio account that follows them from journey to journey, turning every booking into an opportunity to climb tiers and bank value toward their next holiday.

Hurtigruten, Norway’s legendary coastal cruise operator, has announced an exciting new route connecting Copenhagen to Tromsø via the North Cape, offering travellers a seamless voyage from mainland Europe to the edge of the Arctic Circle. The new itinerary is one of three fresh sailings launching along Norway’s spectacular coastline, reinforcing Hurtigruten’s commitment to authentic, slow-paced exploration.

Bookings officially opened on February 12, 2026, with voyages departing from 2027.

From Copenhagen to the Arctic Frontier

The new Copenhagen–Tromsø route via North Cape invites travellers to experience Norway’s most iconic fjords, fishing villages, and natural landscapes—all from the comfort of M/S Trollfjord. Guests will journey from Denmark’s vibrant capital through a series of breathtaking stops that showcase the best of coastal Norway, including time spent at the North Cape, Europe’s northernmost point.

“This new route gives Scandinavians and international travellers the chance to discover the Norwegian coast from the continent itself,” says Hedda Felin, CEO of Hurtigruten. “Departing from Copenhagen, guests can savour the beauty of the fjords and coastal towns at a slower pace—a true celebration of authentic Norwegian travel.”

Strong Demand from Scandinavian Travellers

The expansion comes amid strong growth in travel demand from Scandinavia. Danish bookings increased by 17%, while Swedish travellers grew by 20% between 2024 and 2025, signalling renewed interest in regional exploration and coastal cruising closer to home.

Copenhagen Malmö Port AB welcomed the move, noting the benefits for both visitors and the local economy. “Hurtigruten’s strong heritage and focus on authentic experiences align perfectly with Copenhagen’s position as a leading cruise port,” says Luis de Carvalho, Commercial Cruise Director at CMP. “Extending cruise activity into the winter months brings valuable year-round tourism and economic impact.”

A New Era of Coastal Cruising

In addition to the Copenhagen–Tromsø voyage, Hurtigruten is launching two other new itineraries:

• A week-long fjord sailing from Bergen, showcasing Norway’s most famous natural wonders.
• A round-trip journey from Tromsø, exploring Northern Norway’s Arctic coastline.

Each voyage aboard M/S Trollfjord follows Hurtigruten’s signature concept—locally sourced cuisine, extended port stays, and excursions developed with local communities. Passengers can look forward to regional specialties, onboard lectures, and immersive experiences highlighting Norway’s maritime heritage and pristine wilderness.

Authentic Travel, Norwegian Style

With its heritage tracing back to 1893, Hurtigruten continues to redefine sustainable and meaningful travel. The new routes allow travellers to connect with Norway’s coastline in a deeper, more authentic way, combining comfort, culture, and conservation in equal measure.

For travellers craving a journey where the voyage itself is the destination, Hurtigruten’s new Copenhagen–North Cape sailing offers an unforgettable path to the Arctic—where Nordic charm meets raw natural beauty.

The upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to generate an estimated $556 million in event-related spending across US host cities, according to a pre-event economic impact analysis by The Data Appeal Company and Mabrian. This projection, unveiled on 17 February 2026, suggests that spending will be concentrated in cities with high attendance potential, large stadiums, robust hospitality infrastructure, and direct air connectivity.

The analysis identifies East Rutherford, New Jersey, as the leading beneficiary, expected to receive $67 million in spending. Other top cities include Inglewood, California ($59 million), Arlington, Texas ($58 million), Atlanta, Georgia ($52 million), and Seattle, Washington ($51 million). These five cities alone are projected to account for 52% of the total spending.

Mirko Lalli, CEO and Founder of The Data Appeal Company, noted that “Food & beverage represents the largest spending category, projected at $280 million, accounting for 50% of total spend.” Accommodation and transportation follow, with projected spends of $181 million and $95 million, respectively.

The analysis also highlights the evolving nature of travel behaviour, with many fans delaying travel decisions until team qualifications are finalised. The United States, with direct air connectivity from all qualified markets, is expected to see a 3.3% increase in seat capacity year over year.

Carlos Cendra, Director of Marketing and Communications at Mabrian, stated, “Air scheduling for 2026 is still at a very early stage and will continue to evolve.” The final playoff matches in March are expected to further influence air connectivity patterns.

Overall, the World Cup is poised to have a significant economic impact on US host cities, with spending driven primarily by destination-based visitor activity

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

Plaza Premium Group (PPG) and PT IAS Hospitality Indonesia have announced a strategic partnership to enhance airport lounge experiences for travellers in Indonesia and worldwide. This collaboration allows PPG’s partners access to 26 lounges operated by PT IAS Hospitality across Indonesia, whilst PT IAS Hospitality’s partners can utilise up to 100 Plaza Premium Lounges globally.

The partnership leverages PPG’s extensive global lounge network, present in major hubs such as Singapore Changi and London Heathrow, to elevate the travel experience for PT IAS Hospitality’s customers. Simultaneously, PPG’s global clientele can enjoy premium lounges in Indonesia through PT IAS Hospitality’s network, enhancing both inbound and outbound travel.

PT IAS Hospitality, Indonesia’s largest airport lounge operator, emphasises Indonesian hospitality, adding value to PPG’s customers with its service-oriented approach. The collaboration is timely, as Indonesia recorded 15.39 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2025, with projections of 17.6 million by 2026, highlighting growth in inbound travel. Outbound travel is also on the rise, with destinations like Malaysia and Singapore covered under Plaza Premium’s network.

Song Hoi See, CEO of Plaza Premium Group, stated, “Southeast Asia is a key strategic market, and Indonesia presents a significant opportunity for growth. This partnership is another step towards delivering a consistent airport hospitality experience.” Ariadevi Hermaini, Director of Commercial at PT IAS Hospitality, added, “This collaboration extends IASH’s global reach, strengthening Indonesia’s position as a key gateway in international aviation.”

This partnership not only expands lounge access but also reinforces Indonesia’s role in global travel, promising a consistent, high-quality experience for business and leisure travellers alike

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

BCD Travel and Riskline have announced a strategic partnership aimed at revolutionising travel risk management. This collaboration combines BCD’s travel management technology with Riskline’s AI-driven risk intelligence, offering a comprehensive solution for travel and security managers. According to a December 2025 survey by BCD, 50% of travel buyers reported incidents requiring travel risk management activation, highlighting the need for improved traveller communication.

The partnership will leverage Riskline’s intelligence suite, which utilises human expertise, AI, and open-source intelligence to provide accurate and actionable risk insights. This integration into BCD’s platform will offer risk alerts and real-time emergency response capabilities, enhancing the ability to mitigate risks proactively.

Travellers and managers will benefit from risk alerts and destination intelligence in seven languages, real-time travel information with a 99.8% accuracy rate, and insights from global security analysts. The coverage includes various risks such as health, conflict, crime, and political developments, ensuring comprehensive support throughout the travel journey.

Jorge Mesa, senior director of Travel Risk Management at BCD, emphasised the importance of risk mitigation in today’s volatile travel environment, stating, “Riskline allows us to turn risk intelligence into engaging insights that mitigate risk and drive confidence with travellers and programme stakeholders.” Suzanne Sangiovese, CEO of Riskline, added, “Together, we are focused on helping organisations and travellers navigate an increasingly complex risk landscape with confidence.”

This partnership marks a significant step in enhancing operational resilience and traveller wellbeing, promising a more secure and informed travel experience

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

flydubai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Emirates Aviation University to launch a Flight Dispatcher Cadet Programme, targeting Emirati nationals. The initiative, set to begin in July 2026, is part of flydubai’s strategy to enhance its in-house aviation capabilities and support national workforce development.

The MoU was signed by Nasser Binkherbash, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at flydubai, and Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University. The programme will involve a 10-week Flight Dispatcher Initial Course (FDIC) at the university, approved by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority. This course will equip cadets with essential skills in aviation law, meteorology, navigation, and more, preparing them for a flight dispatcher licence.

Nasser Binkherbash emphasised the programme’s role in flydubai’s growth strategy, stating, “Developing national talent and investing in our people is vital to flydubai’s growth strategy. This programme not only supports our internal training and succession planning, but also contributes to national development goals by creating meaningful job opportunities and building a sustainable pool of future aviation professionals, including flight dispatchers, engineers and pilots.”

Professor Ahmad Al Ali highlighted the university’s role, saying, “Emirates Aviation University has deep expertise in developing and delivering targeted and impactful training for the aviation industry.”

Graduates will receive a Certificate of Course Completion, positioning them for a long-term career in aviation. This collaboration supports the UAE’s broader human capital development agenda and reinforces flydubai’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.