RAKTDA and Trip.com Group Strengthen Partnership to Promote

RAKTDA and Trip.com Group Strengthen Partnership to Promote Ras Al Khaimah as a Top Destination for Chinese Travelers

By Author

Published on March 10, 2025

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Trip.com Group have strengthened their strategic alliance to position Ras Al Khaimah as a premier destination for Chinese travelers. The announcement was made at ITB Berlin 2025, where both organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce a series of initiatives aimed at increasing the Emirate’s visibility, engagement, and accessibility in China.

The MoU was signed by Amanda Wang, Vice President of Trip.com Group, and Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of Destination Tourism Development at RAKTDA. This agreement builds upon the success of their existing partnership and introduces transformative strategies leveraging Trip.com Group’s digital ecosystem, data intelligence, and extensive consumer reach. Through immersive storytelling, targeted promotions, and exclusive travel offerings, Ras Al Khaimah is being positioned as an authentic Arabian escape for Chinese tourists. The Emirate’s blend of adventure, relaxation, and history provides a compelling alternative to traditional Middle Eastern destinations.

Since the partnership’s inception in June 2024, Trip.com Group has generated over 17.5 million page impressions for Ras Al Khaimah. This collaboration has significantly boosted the Emirate’s hospitality sector, leading to a 22% increase in hotel bookings in the second half of 2024. In recognition of this success, Trip.com Group honored RAKTDA with its “Outstanding Strategic Partner of the Year” and “Best Overseas Partner of 2024” awards at its Global Partner Summit in December 2024.

China remains one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets, and this partnership underscores Ras Al Khaimah’s commitment to capturing this audience. Iyad Rasbey emphasized that the extension of their collaboration with Trip.com Group represents a critical step in their broader strategy to explore new growth opportunities. By combining RAKTDA’s destination marketing expertise with Trip.com Group’s market insights and digital influence, the alliance seeks to introduce Ras Al Khaimah to a wider Chinese audience while highlighting its cultural heritage and Arabian hospitality.
Amanda Wang, Vice President of Trip.com Group, expressed enthusiasm for the shared vision between the two partners, emphasizing Ras Al Khaimah’s natural beauty, adventure offerings, and cultural significance. She stated that the next phase of the partnership will involve enhancing digital capabilities to create engaging narratives for Chinese travelers. By amplifying marketing efforts and increasing the Emirate’s presence across Trip.com Group’s platforms, the goal is to attract more visitors eager to explore Ras Al Khaimah.

One of the key initiatives in this collaboration is the launch of a flagship Ras Al Khaimah Star Hub store on Ctrip, Trip.com Group’s primary travel booking platform for Chinese travelers. This digital storefront will serve as a dedicated space for travel inspiration, promotions, and curated itineraries, further strengthening Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal. Additionally, RAKTDA is implementing measures to enhance the travel experience for Chinese visitors, including language support and digital payment solutions tailored to their needs.

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority reported a record-breaking year in 2024, with 1.28 million overnight arrivals, marking a 12% increase in tourism revenues and a 15% rise in MICE visitors. These figures highlight the Emirate’s growing prominence as a global tourism destination. With a strategic vision aimed at attracting over 3.5 million annual visitors by 2030, Ras Al Khaimah continues to solidify its position as a premier choice for international travelers.

TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

As Japan gears up for its much-awaited cherry blossom season, Tobu Tower Skytree Co., Ltd. has announced a special spring programme titled “THE Sakura SKYTREE – Going to Meet the Cherry Blossoms Above the Clouds” at TOKYO SKYTREE. The limited-period experience will run from February 26 to April 14, 2026, offering visitors a fresh way to enjoy sakura from 350 metres above ground.

Designed as an alternative to traditional park hanami, the event brings cherry blossom viewing into an urban, elevated setting. Located on the Tembo Deck at Floors 350 and 340, the experience blends sakura-inspired installations with wide, uninterrupted views of Tokyo, allowing visitors to enjoy spring scenery from above the city skyline.

Built around the theme “Sky × Sakura,” the Tembo Deck will be transformed with cherry blossom décor and Japanese-style photo installations. The setting reflects the fleeting beauty of sakura while creating striking visual moments for visitors. With the Tokyo skyline as a backdrop, the space offers a modern interpretation of spring that combines tradition with a sense of scale and spectacle.

For evening visitors, a key attraction will be the seasonal showcase at the SKYTREE ROUND THEATER® on Floor 350. The observatory’s large windows will turn into a panoramic screen for a three-minute visual presentation capturing the delicate and short-lived nature of cherry blossoms. Using 24 projectors and surround sound from 13 speakers, the experience adds a cinematic layer to hanami, bringing together culture, technology, and storytelling.

Adding to the seasonal feel, the SKYTREE CAFE on Floor 350 will launch a limited-edition cherry blossom-themed menu. The offerings will include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with spring-inspired sweets. Highlights include donuts in “Sakura Mochi” and “Sakura Sky Vanilla” flavours, made as 100% plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free options. The menu is designed to be visually appealing and easy to share, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The spring theme will also extend to the W1SH RIBBON monument on the Tembo Deck, where limited-edition pink ribbons will be available during the event period. Visitors can tie their wishes onto the softly lit pink installation, reflecting themes of renewal and fresh beginnings associated with the season. The monument lighting will also shift to pink to match the overall décor.

On selected evenings, TOKYO SKYTREE itself will light up in special spring illumination called “Sakura SKY (Sakura-Sora).” Inspired by cherry blossoms set against a spring sky, gentle pink beams will represent petals floating in the wind, turning the tower into a seasonal highlight visible across the city.

With immersive décor, visual storytelling, seasonal food, and special lighting, “THE Sakura SKYTREE” positions TOKYO SKYTREE as a standout attraction during spring. By presenting the cherry blossom season from 350 metres above ground, the event offers visitors an experience that feels modern, memorable, and uniquely Tokyo.

Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

TIYA, a Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant, has announced the appointment of Chef Bobby as its new Sous Chef. The move underlines the restaurant’s continued focus on quality, innovation, and refined modern Indian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

In his new role, Chef Bobby will oversee day-to-day kitchen operations at TIYA. His responsibilities include ensuring smooth service, refined plating presentation, well-balanced flavours, and consistent portion control. Through his leadership, the restaurant aims to further strengthen its position as a premium modern Indian dining destination known for creativity, precision, and memorable guest experiences.

Before joining TIYA, Chef Bobby worked as Sous Chef at Madras Group Inc., located at 1177 W El Camino Real, Sunnyvale. There, he supported the Executive Chef in running high-performing kitchen operations. His role included supervising and training culinary teams, maintaining HACCP and ServSafe food safety standards, handling inventory and supplier coordination, and contributing to cost control and menu innovation. His involvement in recipe development and tasting menu execution played a key role in maintaining high dining standards.

Earlier in his career, Chef Bobby gained valuable experience as a Demi Chef de Partie at The Quorum, Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road, and as a Commi at Hotel Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar. He began his professional journey at Aamod Resorts, Kandaghat, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, where he built a strong foundation in kitchen operations and hospitality discipline.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Bobby said, “Joining TIYA, a Michelin Guide restaurant, as Sous Chef is an exciting milestone in my culinary journey. The brand’s vision of redefining modern Indian cuisine resonates deeply with my passion for innovation and excellence. I look forward to contributing to TIYA’s continued growth and delivering memorable dining experiences to our guests.”

With experience across well-known hospitality brands in both India and the United States, Chef Bobby’s appointment marks a meaningful step forward for TIYA as it continues to raise the bar for modern Indian fine dining in San Francisco.

Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

By Hariharan U

Published on February 24, 2026

As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Novotel Cairo Airport welcomes guests to experience the season in an atmosphere defined by serenity, reflection, and heartfelt hospitality. Designed for both Cairo residents seeking a peaceful retreat within the city and travellers exploring Egypt’s capital, the hotel offers a setting where the spirit of togetherness takes centre stage.

Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport focuses on creating meaningful moments. Guests can slow down, reconnect, and embrace the traditions of the holy month while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing stay. The property’s dining venues present thoughtfully curated Iftar and Sohour experiences, blending traditional Ramadan flavours with contemporary touches. Each meal is crafted to bring families, friends, couples, and colleagues together around the table in celebration.

For corporate guests, the hotel provides fully equipped banquet rooms and dedicated facilities suited for Iftars, Sohour gatherings, and Ramadan celebrations. The spaces are designed to encourage connection and appreciation, offering organisations a welcoming environment to host teams and partners during the blessed month.

A highlight of the season is the exclusive Ramadan dessert display, available throughout the day. Guests can indulge in a carefully selected assortment of oriental pastries, featuring both classic favourites and delicately crafted treats that reflect the flavours of Ramadan. Whether enjoyed on-site or taken home to share, the sweet offerings add a festive touch to the experience.

More than a destination to stay or dine, Novotel Cairo Airport positions itself as a place where Cairo’s Ramadan evenings come alive with warmth and community spirit. It is a space to unwind after a long day of fasting, reflect on the blessings of the season, and create lasting memories.

Part of the global Accor portfolio, Novotel operates over 590 hotels across more than 65 countries and participates in the ALL – Accor Live Limitless lifestyle loyalty programme, offering members access to rewards and exclusive experiences worldwide.

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