Travel Unpacked: Emirates' New Business Class Seats and Trump Hotel Opening in Oman

July has kicked off with an array of travel news in the region, from Emirates' latest business class seats to the unveiling of a luxurious Trump hotel in Oman.

$500 Million Luxury Trump Resort Coming in 2028

Trump International has shared details about its upcoming luxury resort in Oman, scheduled to open in December 2028. This $500 million hotel will be perched 100 meters above the Gulf of Oman, featuring villas with clifftop views, private infinity pools, and an 18-hole championship golf course.

Part of Aida, a new affluent community in the sultanate, the hotel will offer 140 rooms, suites, and villas. Premium suites will overhang the clifftop with floor-to-ceiling windows providing stunning ocean views. Amenities will include multiple restaurants, a private beach, children's play area, wellness center, and the exclusive Cliff Hanging Night Club.

Eric Trump, executive vice president of The Trump Organization, expressed excitement about the project: “In collaboration with Dar Global, we are thrilled to launch Trump International Oman, heralding a new era of sophistication, impeccable service, and exclusivity synonymous with the Trump standard of excellence.”

Located less than half an hour from Muscat International Airport, the development by Saudi property developer Dar Global will also include furnished villas and serviced apartments, including Trump Signature Villas with “elite membership” to the golf club and a Trump-branded golf cart.

Emirates Unveils First Routes for Refurbished Jets

Geneva will be the first destination served by Emirates' refurbished B777s. The Swiss city will start receiving the upgraded jets from August 11. Tokyo and Brussels will follow, with flights to Japan beginning on September 1 and to Belgium on September 11.

The revamped Boeing 777s will introduce Emirates' new business class seats, set in a staggered 1-2-1 configuration to enhance privacy and comfort. Each seat is lie-flat with wider dimensions, aisle access for every passenger, personal mini bars, storage facilities, a touch screen seat controller, and a 23-inch HD screen.

The jets will also feature first class, premium economy, and economy cabins. Emirates is refurbishing 81 Boeing 777s as part of a $3 billion retrofit program, the largest of its kind in the aviation industry.

Emirates has already refurbished many of its A380 aircraft to add premium economy cabins, with these superjumbo flights now operating to several destinations, including the US, Australia, Japan, Singapore, Mumbai, Bangalore, Sao Paulo, London, and Dubai.

In June, Emirates posted significant profits for 2023-2024 and announced enhanced staff benefits, including 90 days of paid maternity leave and a 4% salary increase starting July 1. This follows a bonus equivalent to 20 weeks' salary after record financial results. The airline will also introduce its new A350 fleet in November, adding flights to Edinburgh and 36 other cities by February, featuring premium economy and business class seats.

Egypt, the UK, and Thailand Popular for UAE Travellers

According to the latest data from online travel agency Skyscanner, Egypt is the top trending destination for UAE travellers this summer. The country's rich history and vibrant culture attract many visitors. The UK ranks as the second most popular destination, followed by Thailand, which offers tropical vibes. Turkey, known for its fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, also ranks highly among UAE travellers.