Air India and Riyadh Air have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the framework for a future partnership that aims to provide travellers with greater connectivity between India, Saudi Arabia, and destinations across the globe.

The agreement reflects the shared vision of both full-service carriers to strengthen international travel links by leveraging their strategic hubs in Delhi, Mumbai, and Riyadh. The proposed collaboration is expected to offer passengers more travel options and seamless connections across both airline networks.

Subject to regulatory approvals, the two airlines plan to introduce interline and codeshare arrangements that will allow guests to book journeys across both networks through a single reservation while benefiting from smoother transit experiences through their respective hubs.

Beyond network connectivity, Air India and Riyadh Air will also explore opportunities to collaborate in areas such as loyalty programme benefits, cargo operations, operational support, and digital and technology initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall guest experience.

The partnership comes at a time when travel demand between India and Saudi Arabia continues to grow, driven by business travel, tourism, and strong people-to-people connections between the two countries.

Commenting on the development, Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said, “India and Saudi Arabia are two important growth markets in global aviation today, and the scale and momentum in both countries make this a natural partnership. We look forward to working with Riyadh Air to bring together complementary strengths of the two airlines to unlock that opportunity with a focus on offering our guests more choice across our combined networks and elevating their travel experiences.”

Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, added, “India is one of the most important and dynamic aviation markets in the world, and this partnership with Air India marks a defining step in Riyadh Air's mission to connect Saudi Arabia with key global destinations. Together, we will offer guests a seamless, world-class experience that reflects the deep cultural and economic bonds shared between our two nations.”

Since its privatisation in 2022, Air India has significantly expanded its international alliance network. The airline currently maintains 25 codeshare partnerships and more than 120 interline agreements with global carriers, providing access to over 1,000 destinations worldwide.

Riyadh Air has also recently opened public sales for its flights to London Heathrow through its website and mobile application. The inaugural service is scheduled to commence on July 1, offering Indian travellers seamless connectivity through Riyadh to the United Kingdom and Europe for business, leisure, and family travel.

The proposed partnership marks another important step in strengthening aviation ties between India and Saudi Arabia while expanding premium travel choices for passengers across both markets.

Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) has announced the return of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2026, inviting residents and visitors to “Make it a Dubai Summer” with what promises to be the most value-packed edition of the annual festival. Running from 2 July to 30 August 2026, the 60-day celebration will bring together shopping, entertainment, dining, family attractions, hotel offers, and rewarding experiences across the city.

Designed to keep excitement high throughout the season, DSS 2026 will feature a phased retail calendar packed with major sales, exclusive promotions, and citywide activations. Among the highlights is the Great Dubai Summer Sale, offering discounts of up to 90 per cent, flash deals, and special offers from leading brands across Dubai.

From 3 to 30 August, the Back to School campaign will provide shoppers with attractive offers on school supplies, fashion, electronics, and student essentials. The season will also introduce the first-ever Back-to-School Carnival on 7 and 8 August, transforming shopping malls into family-friendly entertainment destinations.

One of the most anticipated additions this year is the "Win Your Home in Dubai" initiative, launched jointly by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment and Dubai Chambers. Shoppers spending AED 500 or more at participating outlets will have the opportunity to win one of 12 residential units from Binghatti Developers, including 11 studio apartments and a grand prize of a two-bedroom apartment. The first winner is expected to be announced during DSS 2026.

Entertainment will be a major attraction throughout the festival. The popular Beat the Heat DXB concert series will return with its biggest edition yet, while the Miami Musical Show will take place at Coca-Cola Arena on 28 August, marking its first performance outside Kuwait. Additional events and performances will be revealed as part of the complete DSS programme.

Malls across Dubai will also host the new DSS Performing Arts Fest, bringing themed performances, roaming entertainers, and community-focused activities to visitors throughout the season.

Families can once again enjoy Modesh World at Dubai World Trade Centre, while opening weekend celebrations will transform several shopping destinations into immersive entertainment hubs. The city’s dining scene will also come alive with the return of Summer Restaurant Week from 13 July to 2 August, followed by the much-loved 10 Dirham Dish promotion from 3 to 30 August.

For fitness enthusiasts, Summer Mallathons will offer indoor activity experiences during the warmer months, while August will feature a range of Back to School celebrations, including live performances, themed installations, and family entertainment across participating malls.

Alongside the extensive programme of events and activities, visitors can also look forward to added value through exclusive offers at hotels, restaurants, attractions, and entertainment venues across the city.

With a mix of retail rewards, dining experiences, live entertainment, family attractions, and exciting promotions, Dubai Summer Surprises 2026 is set to deliver another memorable summer season for residents and tourists alike. Further details about the complete event calendar will be announced in the coming weeks.

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has announced the opening of Taj Hessischer Hof Frankfurt, marking a significant milestone for the brand as it enters Continental Europe for the first time. The launch further strengthens Taj’s international presence and aligns with IHCL’s strategy of expanding into leading global gateway cities.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO, IHCL, said, “Established in 1903, Taj is a legendary symbol of timeless hospitality. Recognised as World’s Strongest Hotel Brand 2025, it is a unique collection of 150+ hotels across 15 countries offering an unrivalled fusion of Indian hospitality and world-class service. The opening of Taj Hessischer Hof Frankfurt marks Taj’s debut into Continental Europe, in line with our international strategy to grow our presence in key gateway cities of the world. We are delighted to reopen this iconic landmark following its extensive renovations and bringing the warmth of Tajness to Frankfurt.”

Located at one of Frankfurt’s most historic addresses, the 126-key hotel combines heritage charm with contemporary luxury. The property has been extensively renovated and reintroduced with a renewed focus on comfort, elegance, and personalised hospitality.

Guests can enjoy a range of dining experiences, including Bombay Brasserie, known for its authentic and eclectic Bombay and Indian cuisine. The hotel is also home to the iconic Jimmy’s Bar, popular for its live piano performances and signature cocktails, while the Lobby Bar offers a relaxed setting with fine teas, coffees, and pastries throughout the day.

Commenting on the opening, Mr. Simon Lutz, Partner at Peakside Capital and owner of the hotel, said, “We are delighted on the opening of Taj Hessischer Hof. This will be a landmark, bringing together the hotel’s rich legacy with Taj’s world-renowned luxury hospitality to Frankfurt.”

Mr. Boris Schran, Partner at Peakside, added: “We are very pleased that the legendary Hotel Hessischer Hof, with its long tradition as a five-star hotel close to the Frankfurt Exhibition Centre, is now reopening its doors as a Taj Hotel.”

The hotel also features Taj’s signature J Wellness Circle, offering wellness experiences inspired by Ayurveda and focused on balancing the mind, body, and soul. Guests have access to a fully equipped fitness centre, while business and event travellers can make use of three spacious venues designed for meetings, private gatherings, and corporate events.

Adding to its premium offerings, the property houses The Chambers, Taj’s exclusive members-only business club, providing a private space for networking, business interactions, and social engagements.

Mr. Albert Mayr, General Manager, Taj Hessischer Hof Frankfurt, said, “Taj Hessischer Hof draws from its aristocratic provenance which has been thoughtfully reimagined for today’s traveller. We are proud to reintroduce this living legacy blending European heritage with the essence of Indian hospitality and look forward to welcoming our guests.”

Located in Germany’s financial hub, Frankfurt is known for its blend of business, culture, and history. The city is home to attractions such as Römerberg, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, Palmengarten, and the museums along the River Main, making it an important destination for both leisure and business travellers.