Emirates has unveiled 'Emirates First', a new premium check-in zone at Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport, offering a private and elevated experience exclusively for its First Class travellers and Skywards Platinum members.

Just steps from the dedicated Emirates entrance, the new facility is designed to mirror the airline’s First Class luxury—with interiors featuring marble finishes, gold and bronze accents, and plush seating areas. The space is intentionally free of digital signage to maintain a calm, lounge-like atmosphere. Instead, the check-in process is handled via iPads or at elegantly crafted counters, providing a personalised, tech-enhanced experience.

The zone also includes family-friendly seating, allowing one member to complete formalities while others relax. Luggage is seamlessly routed through dedicated First Class belts for smoother transfers.

“Emirates First reflects our continued investment in luxury travel,” said Adel al Redha, Deputy President & COO, Emirates. “It offers privacy, efficiency, and comfort at every step of the journey.”

Post check-in, passengers can proceed directly to the First Class lounges for à la carte dining, spa treatments, shopping concierge services, and more.

This initiative is part of Emirates’ broader First Class upgrades, which include Robert Welch caviar bowls, curated wine pairings, and a more refined onboard service. With over 26,800 First Class seats available weekly, Emirates continues to set the standard for top-tier travel experiences.

Alma Resort Cam Ranh has appointed Yen Dang as its new Director of Sales and Marketing (DOSM). With over two decades of experience, Yen is known for her dynamic leadership and creative sales strategies in Vietnam’s hospitality sector.

She steps into the new role at Alma, an award-winning, 30-hectare beachfront resort on Vietnam's Cam Ranh peninsula, after serving as DOSM at Mercure Danang French Village Bana Hills. Her previous roles include DOSM at Movenpick Resort Cam Ranh, cluster director of sales at Mercure Vung Tau and ibis Styles Vung Tau, and DOSM during the pre-opening phase of Melia Cam Ranh Bay. She also held the position of director of sales (wholesale) at Novotel Phu Quoc Resort.

Yen began her career in 2005 as a sales secretary at MGallery La Veranda Resort and Spa in Phu Quoc Island and climbed the ladder to become assistant sales manager. She later held key roles at Novotel Halong Bay, Novotel Saigon Centre, and Pullman Danang Beach Resort.

A graduate in hospitality and tourism management from Ho Chi Minh City’s Van Lang University, Yen brings a strong background in sales leadership, market understanding, and team development.

In her new role at Alma, she will lead sales and marketing strategies across the resort’s key segments and report directly to Frederic Savoye, Alma’s chief commercial officer.

“Yen is a dynamic and creative professional with a wealth of experience with many leading international hotels from Vietnam's south to north,” said Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler. “Her savvy in leading teams, drawing out each member's strengths, to not only hit but exceed budget places her in excellent stead with our Alma family.”

The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance) has welcomed Mr. Sun Guangbin, Senior Vice President of JA Solar, as its new Senior Strategic Advisor for Asia. With over two decades of experience in renewable energy, international trade, and ESG governance, Mr. Sun brings a wealth of expertise that will support the Alliance’s mission to drive Net Positive transformation in the hospitality industry.

Mr. Sun’s journey began in 1997 with the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME), where he played a pivotal role in international negotiations and policy advocacy for the solar sector. Since 2015, he has led key departments at JA Solar—ranging from strategic development and ESG to legal affairs and compliance—establishing himself as a champion of sustainability.

In addition to his corporate role, Mr. Sun holds several prestigious positions, including Vice Secretary General of the China Photovoltaic Industry Association (CPIA) and Chairman of the New Energy Committee under the China Association of Electric Power Education. He also contributes to the academic and policy space as a visiting professor and advisor to various energy think tanks.

As Senior Strategic Advisor to the Alliance, Mr. Sun will guide long-term planning, forge regional and global partnerships, and represent the Alliance at key renewable energy and hospitality platforms. His appointment is expected to boost the Alliance’s influence across Asia and accelerate its commitment to responsible and sustainable hospitality practices.

Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the Alliance, said, “Mr. Sun’s appointment is a strategic leap forward for us. His deep cross-sectoral knowledge and vision will be instrumental in advancing our sustainability goals, especially across Asian markets.”

Expressing his excitement, Mr. Sun remarked, “I’m honoured to take on this role at such a critical time. I look forward to working with the Alliance to integrate renewable energy solutions and drive sustainability as a core pillar of growth for the hospitality industry across Asia.”

The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance represents over 66,000 hotels, 300 brands, and more than 8 million rooms, collaborating with hospitality giants such as Hilton, Marriott, IHG, and Accor. With a network of over 100 partners, the Alliance is committed to uniting industry efforts to build a prosperous, sustainable future for hospitality worldwide.