Emirates will broadcast every match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 live onboard its flights through the Sport 24 channel available on its ice in-flight entertainment system.
The live sports channels are designed to provide passengers with access to major sporting events during their journeys. Coverage will run throughout the tournament, from the opening match in Mexico to the final in the US on July 19, allowing passengers to follow the competition while travelling.
Passengers will be able to watch every FIFA World Cup 2026 match live through Emirates’ Sport 24 channel; photo by Emirates
The airline said the full match schedule is available in the June edition of its ice magazine, enabling customers to plan their viewing during flights.
Live television, including Sport 24 and Sport 24 Extra, is available on most Emirates aircraft, although availability may vary depending on aircraft type and route.
Where possible, FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will also be shown in Emirates lounges in Dubai.
In addition to football coverage, Emirates will continue to offer a range of live sports programming through Sport 24 and Sport 24 Extra.
The NBA Finals will be available through June 20, while other events scheduled for broadcast include the Canada Sail Grand Prix in Halifax on June 20-21, the Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix on July 19 and the Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix on July 26.
Dusit International has signed a hotel management agreement with developer Atmosphere to introduce its Dusit Princess brand in the Tehri Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India.
Scheduled to open in 2031, Dusit Princess Rishikesh will be located near Rishikesh, a destination known for wellness, spirituality and outdoor tourism in northern India.
Donavanik said the signing reflects Dusit’s commitment to growing its presence in India
The project is planned as a mixed-use development comprising 300 keys, including hotel rooms and duplex villas. It is expected to cater to both leisure and business travellers.
Facilities will include an all-day dining restaurant, lobby lounge, business centre, outdoor swimming pool, gym, yoga room and event spaces.
The development will also feature a clubhouse with wellness and recreational facilities including a spa, infinity pool, restaurant, squash court, mini-plex, bowling alley and indoor games.
According to the companies, the project has been designed to integrate with its Himalayan surroundings while focusing on wellness and lifestyle experiences.
The signing follows the opening of dusitD2 Fagu, Shimla in December 2024 and expands Dusit’s development pipeline in India, which the company identifies as a key growth market.
Siradej Donavanik, vice president – development (global) at Dusit International, said: “The signing of Dusit Princess Rishikesh reflects our commitment to growing thoughtfully in India through destinations that align with evolving traveller trends and owner aspirations.”
Sanchit Jain, chairman and managing director of Atmosphere, added: “With Dusit’s globally recognised hospitality expertise and strong wellness-driven approach, we are confident that Dusit Princess Rishikesh will emerge as a distinguished retreat for travellers seeking immersive and elevated stay experiences in Uttarakhand.”
Delta Airlines’ Los Angeles-Hong Kong flight receives a water cannon salute on arrival in Hong Kong
Delta resumes Hong Kong-Los Angeles flights Delta Airlines has restarted services to Hong Kong with the launch of daily non-stop flights between Hong Kong and Los Angeles.
The route reconnects Hong Kong with Delta’s Los Angeles hub and provides onward access to more than 30 destinations across the airline’s network.
Flights are operated daily using Airbus A350-900 aircraft.
The new service marks Delta’s return to the Hong Kong market and further expands its Asia-Pacific network.
Air Astana
Air Astana adds China capacity, resumes Dubai services Air Astana is expanding its international network with a new route to Guangzhou, increased frequencies across China and the gradual restoration of services to Dubai.
The airline has launched direct flights between Astana and Guangzhou, operating twice weekly. The new route complements its existing five-times-weekly Almaty-Guangzhou service.
During the 2026 summer season, the Air Astana Group will also increase frequencies on routes from Almaty to Urumqi, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Sanya and Yining, as well as from Astana to Beijing and Urumqi. The airline group expects to operate 51 weekly flights between Kazakhstan and China.
Separately, Air Astana will resume regular services from Almaty to Dubai from June 20, 2026, and from Astana to Dubai from July 10, 2026. Services will be restored gradually, with both routes returning to daily operations by August.
Flights will operate via Pakistan due to the closure of Iranian airspace.
Qantas and Jetstar
Qantas, Jetstar unveil Western Sydney routes
Qantas and Jetstar will launch domestic services from the new Western Sydney International Airport when it opens in October 2026.
Jetstar will become the airport’s first commercial passenger operator, launching services on October 25, 2026, with up to 14 weekly flights to Melbourne, four weekly flights to the Gold Coast and three weekly flights to Brisbane.
Qantas will begin operations from the airport on March 28, 2027, operating four weekly flights each to Melbourne and Brisbane through QantasLink.
The airlines have signed a five-year agreement with Western Sydney International Airport and said the new services will add capacity to the Sydney market alongside their existing operations at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport.
Philippine Airlines
Philippine Airlines upgrades Toronto route with A350-1000
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has deployed its second Airbus A350-1000 on the Manila-Toronto route from June 5, 2026, expanding the use of its flagship aircraft in North America.
The carrier will operate the aircraft three times weekly on services between Manila and Toronto.
Toronto becomes PAL’s second Airbus A350-1000 destination after New York JFK, following the delivery of the airline’s second aircraft of the type.
The A350-1000 forms part of PAL’s order for nine aircraft and supports the airline’s ongoing fleet modernisation programme.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli has introduced a new honeymoon programme featuring complimentary experiences and optional add-ons for couples visiting the Maldives resort.
Located across three interconnected islands, the programme allows couples to personalise their stay with a selection of romantic experiences. Complimentary touches include personalised messages, a treasure hunt, a private sundowner experience, a mini photoshoot and a “Just Married” bicycle ride.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s new honeymoon programme lets couples personalise their celebration with experiences ranging from private sundowners to sandbank escapes
Guests can also enhance their stay with optional experiences such as floating breakfasts, lagoon breakfasts, private beach cinema screenings and spa treatments for two.
Additional premium experiences include private dining by the ocean, castaway sandbank excursions, personalised villa set-ups and underwater ceremonies.
Grand Hyatt Singapore has introduced Stories of Orchard, a guided walking tour developed with urban heritage specialist Yong Min Ho, founder of The Urbanist Singapore.
Created to mark the hotel’s 55th anniversary, the experience traces Orchard Road’s transformation from plantation land to one of Asia’s best-known shopping and lifestyle districts, while highlighting Grand Hyatt Singapore’s role in the precinct’s evolution since opening in 1971.
Grand Hyatt Singapore’s Stories of Orchard walking tour explores the history, heritage and transformation of Orchard Road with urban heritage specialist Yong Min Ho
The tour begins at Grand Hyatt Singapore before exploring key locations along Orchard Road, including the nutmeg-inspired public artwork at ION Orchard, the Somerset area and Emerald Hill. Along the way, guests learn about the district’s colonial past, urban planning evolution and cultural heritage.
Participants also travel on Singapore’s MRT network and receive a commemorative NETS FlashPay card featuring commissioned artwork by local studio Ripple Root.
Guests can extend the experience with dining options at 10|Scotts or StraitsKitchen, while an overnight package, Grand Happy Hour Escape, combines accommodation with evening canapés and beverages at the hotel.
Amid geopolitical uncertainty and global instability, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has outlined its latest tourism strategy at Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2026 under the theme Healing is the new luxury: Define your new luxury; discover unforgettable experiences.
The strategy places wellness and restorative travel at the centre of Thailand’s tourism offering through five pillars – Retreats, Rituals, Reels, Rhythms and Relations. TAT is positioning Thailand as a destination where travel supports well-being through nature, culture, hospitality, gastronomy, wellness and local connections.
TTM+ 2026 showcased Thailand’s regional diversity and growing focus on wellness-led travel experiences; photo by Anne Somanas
“Travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer comfort, balance, and peace of mind. Thailand provides meaningful experiences, genuine hospitality, and the healing power of nature and culture,” said TAT deputy governor for marketing Nithee Seeprae.
Nithee stated the strategy is being applied across markets and travel segments, with marketing campaigns tailored to different audiences while reinforcing the Healing is the new luxury message through storytelling and visual content.
TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said geopolitical uncertainty also presents an opportunity for Thailand.
“In times of global volatility, what tourists fundamentally desire – especially those travelling from longhaul markets – when they come to Thailand is something we can tangibly offer: safety,” she shared.
“Therefore, Healing is the new luxury situated within a ‘Safe Haven’ is our primary communication direction. In conjunction with Trusted Thailand, we are conveying that you will be safe here. You will be able to achieve a state of mind and experience genuine healing that truly rejuvenates you, healing both your body and your mind.”
Longhaul travellers are being targeted with experiences centred on transformation, escape and self-investment, while shorthaul markets are being promoted through food, entertainment and relaxation-focused breaks. Domestically, TAT’s collaboration with Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal under the Amazing Thailand x LISA Feel All the Feelings campaign links travel with emotion, contemporary culture and national pride.
TTM TALK 2026 also featured a medical and wellness tourism forum titled Thailand: Your Source of Healing Vitamins.
In addition, TAT is promoting Travel with Care as a responsible tourism initiative aimed at travellers seeking experiences that benefit destinations, local communities and the environment.
As of June 2, 2026, Thailand had welcomed more than 14 million international visitors, generating around 679 billion baht (US$20.6 billion) in tourism revenue.
TAT is targeting total tourism revenue of 2.65 trillion baht from domestic and international tourism in 2026, supported by an expected 33 million international arrivals.
TTM+ 2026 has attracted 429 international buyers, 428 Thai sellers and more than 70 international media representatives. Organisers expect the event to generate 15,408 business appointments and more than five billion baht in tourism revenue.
The event is taking place from June 10 to 12, 2026, at the NICE Pattaya Convention and Exhibition Center in Chonburi.
New York City Tourism + Conventions, in partnership with CrescentRating and HalalTrip, has released the 2026 edition of the New York City Halal Travel Guide ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
First launched in 2022, the guide is designed to help Muslim travellers navigate the city’s tourism offerings across the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island.
The guide includes halal dining, prayer facilities and World Cup visitor information across New York City’s five boroughs; photo by Narisa Ladak
The latest edition includes information on halal dining, prayer facilities, accommodation and cultural attractions. It also features details related to the World Cup, including official fan event locations and a five-day itinerary tailored for Muslim visitors attending the tournament.
New York City will host eight World Cup matches in 2026, including the final.
According to the guide’s organisers, the resource aims to address common challenges faced by Muslim travellers during major sporting events, including access to halal food, prayer spaces and transport options.
The publication also highlights New York City’s Islamic heritage, covering sites linked to the city’s Muslim communities and cultural history alongside tourism, retail and dining recommendations.
The release comes as Muslim travel continues to grow globally. According to the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index 2025, international Muslim arrivals reached 176 million in 2024 and are projected to contribute US$235 billion in travel spending by 2030.
Raudha Zaini, head of operations at CrescentRating and HalalTrip, shared that the guide reflected New York City’s commitment to Muslim travellers and would help strengthen the city’s appeal ahead of the World Cup.
Julie Coker, president and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions, said: “New York City is proud to welcome Muslim travellers from around the world with resources that reflect the diversity, inclusivity and hospitality that define our city. This guide is an important part of our commitment to creating a seamless and welcoming experience for every traveller who chooses New York City.”
Marriott International has joined forces with CG Hospitality Global to develop three hotels in Nepal and India, expanding its luxury and premium portfolio in South Asia.
The projects comprise The Ritz-Carlton Kathmandu, The Westin Kathmandu and JW Marriott Hotel Siliguri. Scheduled to open in 2031, the three properties will add nearly 450 rooms to Marriott’s regional portfolio.
The agreement includes the debut of The Ritz-Carlton brand in Nepal and a new JW Marriott hotel in Siliguri
The signing expands Marriott’s relationship with CG Hospitality Global, which has collaborated with the hotel group on multiple projects across the region.
According to Marriott, the developments are intended to support tourism growth and strengthen hospitality infrastructure in Nepal and India.
The agreement marks the debut of The Ritz-Carlton brand in Nepal. Located in Kathmandu, the hotel is expected to feature 150 guestrooms, including 30 suites, alongside five food and beverage venues, a spa, fitness centre, outdoor swimming pool and more than 1,100m² of meeting and event space.
The Westin Kathmandu will also feature 150 rooms and suites. Planned facilities include three dining venues, a fitness studio, spa, rooftop swimming pool and more than 700m² of meeting and event space.
In India, JW Marriott Hotel Siliguri will introduce 150 guestrooms and suites in the city of Siliguri, a gateway to north-east India. The hotel is expected to include four dining venues, a spa, swimming pool, fitness centre and 1,500m² of event space.
Rajeev Menon, president, Asia-Pacific excluding China, Marriott International, said: “We are pleased to deepen our association with CG Hospitality Global through a shared vision to bring world-class hospitality experiences to these high-potential markets.
“These landmark developments reflect the exceptional standards and brand excellence that define Marriott’s luxury and premium portfolio, while contributing meaningfully to tourism growth, local employment and regional economic development.”
Rahul Chaudhary, CEO and managing director of CG Hospitality Global, said: “Growing our relationship with Marriott International marks an exciting new chapter in our journey to elevate South Asia’s hospitality landscape.”
Philippine Airlines (PAL) will soon become the 16th member of the oneworld airline alliance following the signing of a memorandum of understanding at the International Air Transport Association’s 82nd Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro.
The airline was invited to join the alliance as a member-designate carrier by the oneworld Governing Board, which comprises the chief executives of member airlines.
The move will strengthen oneworld’s network in South-east Asia and expand connectivity across the Philippines
Once integrated into the alliance, PAL will add 31 destinations across the Philippines and other markets to the oneworld network. The carrier operates services across Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, the Middle East and Australia.
The addition will strengthen oneworld’s presence in South-east Asia and expand connectivity for travellers across the region.
PAL’s Mabuhay Miles members will gain access to reciprocal earning and redemption opportunities across oneworld airlines. Eligible top-tier members will also receive access to oneworld priority services and more than 700 airport lounges worldwide.
The alliance said the move supports its long-term network development plans in Asia-Pacific and will strengthen connections between the Philippines and international markets.
Lucio C Tan III, president of PAL Holdings, said: “This is a defining and transformative moment for Philippine Airlines.Becoming a member of the oneworld Alliance and strengthening Southeast Asia’s representation within the group significantly brings the Philippines and the region closer to the world like never before.
“Together with our partners, we will deliver greater choice, consistent journeys, and a world-class travel experience that reflects the warmth of Filipino hospitality.”
Robert Isom, CEO of American Airlines and chairman of the oneworld Governing Board, added: “Philippine Airlines’ entry into oneworld supports our long-term strategic growth and strengthens our connectivity across key markets in the Asia-Pacific region.”
Capri by Fraser, Penang, Malaysia
Capri by Fraser, Penang has opened on Jalan Magazine in George Town, combining a restored heritage shophouse with a new 22-storey tower. The property offers 248 rooms and residences, including studio accommodation and one-bedroom residences equipped with kitchenettes.
Guest facilities include a swimming pool, jacuzzi, gymnasium, yoga room, meeting spaces, games room and self-service laundrette. Dining options include Palm House restaurant and bar, while The Den serves as a social and coworking space. The hotel is also pet-friendly and provides EV charging stations.
Situated close to George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the hotel offers convenient access to the city’s historic streets, cultural landmarks, street art and food scene.
Mercure Tokyu Stay Hiroshima
Mercure Tokyu Stay Hiroshima, Japan
Mercure Tokyu Stay Hiroshima is a 182-room hotel located in Hiroshima’s Hatchobori district, marking Accor’s first property in the city.
Facilities include a coworking and social lounge, meeting rooms and a fitness centre. Guests can also enjoy locally sourced food and beverages, including bread from Hiroshima bakery Aloft and coffee from Mount Coffee.
The property is a two-minute walk from Hatchobori Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railway network, providing access to the city’s shopping, dining and cultural attractions.
Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai Eastern Hub
Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai Eastern Hub, China
Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai Eastern Hub features 445 guestrooms and suites in Pudong, around 23 minutes from Shanghai Pudong International Airport and close to the future Shanghai East Railway Station.
Dining options include an all-day restaurant, a Chinese restaurant with private dining rooms and an executive lounge.
Facilities include a temperature-controlled swimming pool, fitness centre and more than 6,700m² of meeting space, including a conference hall, theatre and eight meeting rooms. The hotel also offers convenient access to Pudong’s business districts, convention venues and cultural attractions.
Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel
Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel, Australia
Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel is a 180-room property located on Mooloolaba Esplanade overlooking the Pacific Ocean on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.
Facilities include a rooftop pool and terrace, a spa, fitness centre, Lobby Bar and Sully’s Rooftop restaurant. Guests can also access local experiences and activities through the hotel’s dedicated experience host.
The hotel is within walking distance of Mooloolaba Beach, restaurants and shopping along the esplanade. It also benefits from access to attractions across the Sunshine Coast, including coastal trails, beaches and marine activities. Sunshine Coast Airport, which offers connections to destinations including Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Denpasar and Singapore, is around 15 minutes away by car.
