Emirates has reached a defining milestone in its ambitious multi-billion dollar retrofit programme with the successful reconfiguration of its first two-class A380 aircraft. The newly refurbished aircraft (A6-EUX) has taken to the skies operating as EK 39/40 between Dubai and Birmingham, featuring sparkling new interiors with Emirates’ latest products in three cabin classes: 76 Business Class seats, 56 Premium Economy Seats, and 437 Economy Class seats.

This is the first of 15 two-class A380 aircraft in its fleet that Emirates will renovate as part of its commitment to offer customers a consistently superior experience in the sky.

Managed entirely in-house by Emirates Engineering in Dubai, the retrofit programme has so far completed work on 95 Emirates aircraft including 42 Airbus A380s and 53 Boeing 777s, representing more than one third of Emirates’ current fleet of aircraft.

Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline said: The Emirates retrofit programme revolves around the central premise that we will offer our customers a truly elevated experience every time they choose to travel with us. To this end, our engineering team has been working continuously and at pace in close collaboration with an ecosystem of partners and suppliers to meticulously refresh and integrate the best-in-class products to each aircraft in the programme. Our retrofit programme has raised the bar at every step, in terms of complexity, scale and detailed craftsmanship. The reconfiguration of our two-class A380 into three-class layout that brings our popular Premium Economy seating onto the upper deck illustrates the extensive cabilities of our team.

Fleet First for Premium Economy

As part of the retrofit, Emirates’ award-winning Premium Economy cabin will be featured, for the first time, in the upper deck of the A380. Featuring spacious leather seats with generous recline in a 2-3-2 configuration, customers can enjoy features including full leg and footrests, 6-way adjustable headrests, built-in charging ports, side cocktail tables as well as elevated dining experiences and an unmatched entertainment system via a 13.3 inch personal screen.

Refreshed interiors across all cabins

The retrofitted three class A380 features upgraded interiors across all cabins including the latest generation seats and updated cabin finishings. From nose to tail, from fresh carpets to ceiling panels, Emirates’ new signature elements are evident throughout the cabin including modern colour palettes, specially designed Ghaf tree motifs as well as premium wood finishes.

The nuts and bolts of retrofitting the first two-class A380

During the retrofit, the entire cabin interior of A6-EUX was taken art, refreshed and put back together with precision. The Emirates Engineering team had to carry out extensive modifications to the upper deck of the A380 aircraft by removing 120 Economy Class seats to accommodate 56 Premium Economy and an additional 18 Business Class seats. To support this change in configuration, the team had to undertake structural work to remove, upgrade and reposition galley modules, stowage areas, overhead bins, partitions and other cabin features along with associated changes to the electrical and plumbing systems in the aircraft.

It took a team of around 50 engineers and technicians investing an proximate 35,000 man-hours and utilising more than 2,500 different types of parts.

Emirates Engineering completed the retrofit of the first two-class A380 over a period of two months, including comprehensive planning and testing. With learnings from the first project integrated into future processes, retrofits of other two-class A380 aircraft are expected to take around half the time at 30 days. By the end of 2026, all 15 two-class A380 aircraft in the Emirates fleet will be retrofitted.

Evolution of the Emirates retrofit programme

The ambitious Emirates retrofit programme was first announced in 2021, emerging from a bold vision to ensure that Emirates’ signature standards of customer experience could be delivered consistently and seamlessly to customers across the world. 120 aircraft were initially slated to be refurbished under the first phase of the programme. However, by May 2024, based on the success of the programme and the positive feedback received from customers, the programme scope was expanded to 191 aircraft and then further scaled up to 219 aircraft later in the year. A dedicated team of around 270 staff ensure that on an average two refreshed aircraft emerge every month from the Emirates Engineering hangars in Dubai.

Consuming responsibly

In line with its commitment to minimise its environmental footprint, materials retrieved from the 219 Emirates A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft undergoing cabin retrofit are evaluated for repurposing as part of Emirates’ upcycling programme. This has resulted in successful initiatives including the Aircrafted range of limited-edition collector pieces such as luggage items; and Aircrafted for Kids backpacks made from repurposed Economy Class seat fabric. To date, around 4,000 Aircrafted for Kids backpacks have been donated to children across 10 countries.

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, today announced the launch of full public sales for flights between Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (RUH) and London Heathrow (LHR). This key route, which introduces the new aircraft on 1 July 2026, strengthens the airline’s mission to connect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with major global and regional hubs and deliver a world-class travel and logistics experience.

Riyadh Air has operated daily flights to London Terminal 4 since 26 October 2025, utilizing the airline’s technical spare Jamila as part of its Pathway to Perfect operational readiness program, during which tickets have been available for booking. Jamila flights will continue to be available for booking through Riyadh Air’s proved travel partners until 30 June 2026.

Starting today, sales on the London-Riyadh service from 1 July 2026 are fully open to the public and will operate exclusively on the airline’s new state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, featuring unparalleled cabin interiors and experiences.

Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, said, Today marks a truly exciting milestone for Riyadh Air as we introduce our new aircraft and signature premium experience on our established London route. It demonstrates our deep commitment to delivering a truly world-class journey for our guests, one that blends exceptional comfort, cutting-edge technology and our distinctive Saudi ‘Hafawa’ hospitality from the moment they step on board.

Douglas added: Connecting Saudi Arabia with the UK directly and beyond through our growing network of global destinations including Jeddah, Cairo and Dubai, sits at the very heart of what we are building at Riyadh Air and the Kingdom’s ambitions under Vision 2030. We look forward to welcoming our guests aboard to experience the future of air travel.

Daily flights to London Heathrow (LHR) on RX401: (All times local)

Depart RUH at 02:35
Arrive LHR at 07:30

Daily flights to Riyadh (RUH) on RX402: (All times local)

Depart LHR at 09:35
Arrive RUH at 18:05

The Riyadh-London route is a cornerstone of the airline’s UK expansion, linking two G20 cital cities. This service strengthens a key economic corridor, further facilitating investment and commerce between the Kingdom and London’s established status as a global financial center. The route also caters to growing tourism demand in both directions, fostering cultural exchange and providing essential connectivity for travelers exploring the rich heritage and modern attractions of both cities.

The service also positions Riyadh as a key transport hub, offering convenient onward connections for passengers travelling from London to soon-to-be-announced global destinations.

Premium Comfort and Style

Riyadh Air’s new 787-9 Dreamliners offer a four-class configuration – Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy and Economy – each designed to deliver exceptional comfort and cutting-edge technology. This includes, for a truly personalized audio experience, Bluetooth audio connectivity and traditional physical audio jacks available at every seat, across all classes. Business Elite and Business share a fully flat-bed 1-2-1 layout, with AC Power USB-C and USB-A charging and immersive high-fidelity sound delivered directly into the headrests. Premium Economy’s 2-3-2 layout features privacy headrest wings, additional storage, expandable surfaces, four USB-C charging points, while Economy offers 6-way adjustable headrests and two USB-C charging points in a 3-3-3 configuration. Throughout all classes, seats are ergonomically crafted with plush foam and premium fabrics for deep, restorative comfort.

The world’s most modern in-flight entertainment experience

Guests on Riyadh Air’s Dreamliners will experience one of the world’s most modern in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems, offering a rich selection of over 500 movies and 600 TV series from partners like Shahid, Disney+, HBO Max, and Warner Bros., complemented by 1,000 audio albums and playlists, via Panasonic Avionics’ innovative Astrova IFE system, which delivers pioneering technology including ‘mobile-first’ connectivity, cinema-quality visuals, wireless listening via Bluetooth® and USB-C charging.

Signature Onboard Hospitality

Riyadh Air guests will also experience restorative Saudi-made Kayanee in-flight products, with bespoke Disney amenity kits for younger travelers, the finest in-flight dining experience, luxurious bedding by John Horsfall and a customized wellness journey that touches all five senses to ensure a peaceful flight. Guests travelling in Business Elite and Business will receive exclusive Kayanee loungewear, while Premium Economy guests will be treated to a Kayanee loungewear top, ensuring every guest arrives feeling refreshed and at ease.

Sfeer: for a generation in motion

Guests planning to travel on our London Heathrow route can unlock exclusive benefits by joining Riyadh Air’s loyalty program, Sfeer. The name Sfeer derives from the Arabic word for Ambassador and the English word sphere, embodying the generous spirit of Saudi Arabia while fostering a global community. It offers a Best Offer Guarantee, including a range of unique benefits such as a no points of expiry policy, the ability for members to share level points with friends and family, and complimentary onboard Wi-Fi for seamless connectivity.

The program is distinguished by its blend of community engagement with gamified experiences, featuring challenges and leaderboards, and is designed to be a comprehensive digital lifestyle ecosystem that provides value to a new generation of travelers both in the air and on the ground through exclusive partnerships and events. Early Sfeer members join an elite club of ‘The Founders’, who will receive priority access to bookings on new routes, along with other benefits.

Eid Al Adha is just around the corner, and with long lunches, family gatherings, and city staycations sure to fill the calendar, VEO Fitness is giving Dubai residents another reason to make movement part of the holiday plans. Bringing people together through wellness, VEO’s latest community-led initiative allows every active member to bring one friend or neighbour to experience the club completely free throughout the Eid break.

Part of Emaar Hospitality Group, VEO Fitness has established itself as one of Dubai’s leading lifestyle fitness destinations, built around a strong sense of community and inclusivity. With multiple locations across the city, including The Lakes, Manzil Downtown, Meadows Town Center, and Arabian Ranches 2, VEO combines premium fitness facilities with a welcoming atmosphere designed for every level of experience. First-time gym-goers and dedicated fitness enthusiasts alike can enter VEO and enjoy spaces to move, connect, and feel part of a supportive wellness community.

The Eid initiative reflects exactly that ethos, encouraging members to share the VEO experience with someone new during one of the year’s most social periods. Guests taking advantage of this offer will receive full complimentary access to the gym facilities from May 26th to 31st, along with a complimentary PT assessment session designed to help them better understand their fitness goals and training needs.

Perfect for those looking to maintain healthy routines throughout the holiday period, it is a more accessible way to experience fitness in a relaxed and welcoming environment. It also creates an opportunity for residents to reconnect with friends, neighbours, or family members through shared wellness experiences, reinforcing the idea that fitness is often more enjoyable when experienced together.

To redeem the offer, active VEO members simply need to bring their chosen guest to any participating VEO location during the campaign period. All guests must be non-members, first-time visitors to VEO, and registered within the system prior to accessing the club. The offer is valid across all VEO Fitness locations, with access limited to gym facilities only.

As Dubai embraces the Eid holiday spirit, VEO Fitness continues to champion wellness, connection, and community through experiences that make fitness feel more accessible and social.

When: Available from May 26th to 31st

Offer Inclusions:

Complimentary gym access for one guest per active VEO member

One complimentary PT assessment session

Terms & Conditions:

Offer valid for non-members and first-time visitors only

Guests must be registered within the system prior to club access

Offer valid across all VEO Fitness locations

Access is limited to gym facilities only

Standard terms and conditions ply

Contact: VEO Hayya Lakes: 04 438 4070; VEO Manzil, Downtown: 04 438 4046; VEO Meadows Town Center: 04 438 4722; VEO Arabian Ranches 2: 04 245 5321

For more information, please follow VEO on Instagram or visit

Eid Al Adha is the perfect time to slow down, reconnect and enjoy a well-earned break. This year, Rove Hotels is making it easier than ever to do just that with a citywide offer designed for comfort, value and a little something extra. With stays starting from AED 199, Rovers can look forward to a vibrant getaway packed with thoughtful additions.

Known for its homegrown spirit and effortlessly cool vibe, Rove Hotels has become a go-to for explorers, families and staycation seekers across the UAE. With locations spanning the beachfront charm of Rove Al Marjan Island, the high-energy setting of Rove At The Park, and the buzzing neighbourhoods of Rove Downtown and Rove Dubai Marina, each property offers contemporary design, social spaces, and all the essentials for a seamless stay, right where you want to be this Eid.

Available across all Rove Hotels in Dubai, the Eid Al Adha offer brings added value to every stay. Guests who book a room-only rate will enjoy complimentary breakfast at The Daily, setting the tone for relaxed mornings and easy-going days. For those opting for a stay that already includes breakfast, the experience is elevated further with a complimentary upgrade to half board, adding even more flavour to the celebration.

If you’re planning a spontaneous staycation or simply looking for a change of scenery this Eid, Rove Hotels offers the perfect base for a celebration made simple, just the way it should be.

When: Valid for stays from 25th to 31st May

Where: All Rove Hotels across Dubai

Offer Inclusions:

Complimentary breakfast when booking a room-only rate

Complimentary upgrade to half board when booking a room with breakfast

Price: Stays from AED 199 per room, per night

Terms & Conditions:

Valid for stays from May 25th to 31st

plicable on direct bookings only via this link

Not valid in conjunction with any other offer

Free cancellation available until 2pm on the day of arrival

For more information, please visit 
Connect with Rove Hotels on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok

For enquiries, call +971 4561 9999 or Whatsp +971 50 517 6833

Ziptrrip has acquired HelloTravel in its first acquisition since launching operations three years ago, as the AI-led corporate travel platform looks to deepen its presence in the ridly growing MICE and business leisure segments.

The acquisition marks a significant strategic expansion for Ziptrrip, which has so far focused primarily on corporate travel and expense management. Through the deal, the company gains access to HelloTravel’s extensive travel agent and destination management company (DMC) network, strengthening its cabilities across experiential travel, meetings and incentive travel, and blended business-leisure offerings.

Expanding beyond core corporate travel

The acquisition reflects a broader trend within India’s travel-tech ecosystem, where companies are increasingly looking to build integrated travel platforms rather than operate in isolated verticals.

In a relatively short period, Ziptrrip has built scale in the corporate travel segment, facilitating more than 2 lakh trips across over 650 corporate clients through its AI-driven booking and expense management platform.

The acquisition of HelloTravel allows the company to move beyond transactional corporate travel into higher-engagement segments such as MICE and business leisure, where demand for customised experiences and destination expertise continues to rise.

Access to large partner ecosystem

Founded over 18 years ago, HelloTravel has evolved into one of India’s larger travel marketplace platforms, with more than 7,000 verified travel partners across destinations and over 2 lakh experience-led travel packages.

The platform also brings a sizeable digital community and operational reach across more than 10,000 destinations, having served over one crore travellers to date.

For Ziptrrip, this provides immediate scale in areas where supplier relationships and execution cabilities are critical, particularly in MICE and experiential travel.

Building integrated travel infrastructure

The combined platform is expected to create synergies across travel agents, hospitality partners and DMCs, while allowing greater control over execution and customised travel delivery.

Focus on AI-led travel operations

Shan Prabhakaran, Co-founder and CEO of Ziptrrip, said HelloTravel’s destination expertise and partner relationships would help the company expand meaningfully into MICE and business leisure.

Our focus will be on building on this foundation and working closely with partners to unlock new opportunities, he said.

Rishabh Agarwal, Co-founder and COO of Ziptrrip, added that combining HelloTravel’s ecosystem with Ziptrrip’s AI-led infrastructure could help deliver more customised and reliable travel experiences, especially in segments where operational execution is crucial.

Consolidation trend gains momentum

The transaction also reflects growing consolidation within India’s travel and hospitality technology landsce, as companies seek scale, supplier depth and differentiated offerings in an increasingly competitive market.

As corporate travel rebounds and business-leisure convergence accelerates globally, MICE and experiential travel are emerging as high-growth segments for travel-tech firms.

The acquisition positions Ziptrrip to participate more aggressively in these segments while broadening its role from a corporate booking platform to a more comprehensive travel ecosystem player.

Under the deal, HelloTravel will continue to operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Wayfarers Technologies, while its existing team will remain with the business to ensure continuity across operations and partner relationships.