Abu Dhabi’s budget carrier Wizz Air is launching flights to Maldives starting from $87 as they further expand their coverage to recover from air travel loss.
Flights will be offered four times a week to Male’ which is the main international airport in the Maldives.
Wizz Air is also launching daily flights to their fifth destination in the Gulf, Kuwait, starting at AED99.
“We are excited to announce two new Wizz Air Abu Dhabi routes, which reaffirm our commitment to supporting the UAE’s travel and tourism industry by connecting its capital with many popular holiday destinations regionally and globally,” said Wizz Air’s development officer, Owain Jones.
The airline is hoping to receive their 5thairbus plane in October, which will expand their connectivity and capacity to recover from the pandemic.
September 2nd, 2024 – Creator of one-of-a-kind hospitality projects, Zannier Hotels, has announced a partnership with NEOM to develop a new luxury eco-resort in Zardun, one of Magna's destinations located in the Northwest of Saudi Arabia on the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba. Overlooking crystalline waters, Zannier Zardun nestles into the exquisite landscape stretching from the mountains to the low hills, across the coastal plain to the sea.
Known for its distinct hotels and resorts that harmonize with their environments, Zannier Hotels is partnering with NEOM to develop Zannier Zardun, a tranquil retreat for discerning guests seeking authentic experiences amidst a breathtaking natural setting.
The resort, situated within the four square kilometers of Zardun in a carefully restored semi-desertic landscape thriving with native fauna and flora, will feature a total of 100 rooms and suites, spread over three striking signature buildings, each themed to offer diverse and breathtaking experiences.
A distinctively unique experience centre welcomes guests through an underground entrance, leading to a 360-degree observation deck that reveals the splendor of Zardun, providing a setting for the most intimate connection between humans and nature.
Guests will enjoy transformative experiences, educational programs on nature conservation and rewilding, and various sports and leisure activities including trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, stargazing, meditation, and yoga.
"We are thrilled to officialize our collaboration with NEOM" commented Arnaud Zannier, Founder and CEO of Zannier Hotels, highlighting that "this partnership marks a significant milestone, solidifying our position among top-tier hospitality brands. It highlights our ambitious vision and commitment to excellence, serving as both a cornerstone for our brand's evolution and a testament to our emergence as a formidable contender in the luxury hospitality market.”
As part of NEOM and Zannier Hotels' dedication to preserving and enhancing the natural environment, the resort will feature a series of lush oases designed to support diverse habitats, aiding the reintroduction of native animal, tree, and plant species.
“Zannier Zardun epitomizes NEOM's dedication to crafting unrivaled experiences that celebrate the precious environment and rich heritage of Magna. Together we will carefully and diligently cultivate and conserve the vibrant ecosystem along the coast for future generations” said Jeremy Lester, Executive Director, Magna. “This partnership with Zannier Hotels reflects a unified vision where ultra-luxury and sustainability coexist in perfect harmony. Zannier Zardun charters new horizons, merging our grand ambitions and shared values to create lasting memories for our guests and visitors to cherish.”
This project represents another major achievement for Zannier Hotels continuing to make its mark as an ambitious and creative global hospitality brand and a leader in new-generation luxury.
“Our collaboration with Zannier Hotels, a brand that shares our commitment to authenticity, sustainable practices, and creating unique guest experiences rooted in nature, represents a powerful partnership for NEOM," said Chris Newman, Executive Director of NEOM Hotel Division. " Zannier Hotels' dedication to authentic experience makes them the ideal partner for Magna. Together, we will create a sanctuary that embraces the stunning natural beauty of the Gulf of Aqaba, pushing boundaries in progressive architecture with the aim to redefine how we travel, stay, and live."
Zannier Hotel's strength lies in its “Simple Mastery” approach, which emphasizes customization, immersion, sustainability, and authenticity. All projects are crafted by the acclaimed Zannier Interior Design Studio, ensuring a unique and masterful touch.
Bringing Barry's signature hybrid-style training to the Saudi Arabian desert for the second year, Banyan Tree AlUla is inviting guests to embark on a journey of self-discovery against the majestic backdrop of the Ashar Valley. Returning exclusively for one weekend only – from Thursday, 26 September to Sunday, 29 September – the Wellbeing Retreat will see the ethereal desert come alive with Barry's invigorating workouts and Banyan Tree AlUla's bespoke wellbeing experiences.
Banyan Tree AlUla
The thoughtfully planned itinerary includes:
3-night stay in a luxurious tented villa with full board
Four sessions of Barry's signature workouts
60-min spa treatment at Banyan Tree Spa
Banyan Tree AlUla wellbeing classes
Destination dining experiences in the Ashar Valley and over a Stargazing Rawi
Healthy cooking class, followed by a lunch of guests' own creation
Airport transfers
Centred on Banyan Group's 8 Pillars of Wellbeing, guests will enjoy a generous schedule of activities that nourishes the mind, body, and soul – including four workout sessions hosted by Barry's expert instructors, Lina Antar and Farah Adra, as well as a heavy dose of relaxation – with morning yoga and stretching sessions among magical surroundings, evening sound healing sessions under the starry desert skies, and a spa treatment nestled between the soaring tawny-hued rocks.
The retreat will also include dining experiences at Harrat – Banyan Tree AlUla's acclaimed Middle Eastern restaurant that overlooks the mirrored Maraya concert hall, Saffron – Banyan Tree's signature Thai offering, as well as a special Bedouin Tent Dinner under the stars, while a healthy cooking class will let guests embrace their inner chef, learning the secrets to delicious and nutritious food.
With pockets of free time in the itinerary, guests can look forward to unwinding at the tranquil rock pool with the valley on the horizon, enjoying the exclusivity of their own private villa, or exploring AlUla's ancient local surroundings during their stay.
Prices for the Wellbeing Retreat with Barry's at Banyan Tree AlUla start at SAR3,900/USD$1,040 per person per night in a Dune One-Bedroom Villa, or SAR4,250/USD$1,130 per person per night in a Dune One-Bedroom Pool Villa. A minimum of two guests and three nights' stay (fixed dates from 26 to 29 September 2024) are required per booking. All meals, airport transfers, and scheduled activities as per the itinerary, are included in the rate.
For more information or to book the Wellbeing Retreat with Barry's at Banyan Tree AlUla, please visit https://www.banyantree.com/saudi-arabia/alula/offers/wellbeing-retreat-with-barrys.