Eligible members of Marriott Bonvoy and ShebaMiles, Ethiopian Airlines’ loyalty programme, can convert ShebaMiles into Marriott Bonvoy points for hotel stays, upgrades, and more, as well as Marriott Bonvoy points to ShebaMiles to book flights.

Members can also choose whether to earn Marriott Bonvoy points or ShebaMiles when staying at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels.

This collaboration marks a key partnership for Marriott Bonvoy with a leading African airline, connecting Ethiopian Airlines’ network of over 145 destinations with Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 destinations worldwide.

Ethiopian Airlines Group Vice President of Marketing, Rahel Assefa, commented: “The partnership we have established with Marriott Bonvoy is part of our ongoing efforts to advance our vision of enhancing the ShebaMiles member travel experience while diversifying our service offerings. Through this new partnership, our ShebaMiles members will have greater opportunities to earn and redeem their miles through access to Marriott Bonvoy’s global network of hotels across multiple touchpoints and destinations in Africa and around the world. Ethiopian Airlines remains committed to building strategic partnerships with various stakeholders that enhance our service offerings and enable us to exceed our customers’ expectations continually.”

Ethiopian Airlines now enables ShebaMiles members — and Marriott Bonvoy members who convert points to ShebaMiles — to access flight redemptions and cabin upgrades across 25 Star Alliance partner airlines serving more than 1,150 destinations. ShebaMiles members can convert miles to Marriott Bonvoy points at a 2:1 ratio.

Marriott Bonvoy members can convert points to ShebaMiles at a 3:1 ratio and will receive a 5,000 bonus ShebaMiles for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points transferred in a single transaction. On eligible stays at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties, members can earn up to 2 ShebaMiles per US dollar spent, or earn Marriott Bonvoy points as usual.

(Source: Ethiopian Airlines)

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The resumption further restores a key connection between Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL).

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew noted, “Atlanta is one of the most vibrant markets in the US, and Ethiopian Airlines is delighted to bring this route back into its network. The route serves growing demand from business travellers, members of the African diaspora, and tourists seeking convenient access to destinations across the African continent.”

Atlanta serves as a major economic and cultural centre in the US and hosts one of the largest African diaspora communities in the country. The renewed service will provide convenient travel options for passengers connecting to cities across the southeastern US and onward to destinations throughout Africa via Addis Ababa.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates flights to multiple destinations across the US and continues to strengthen its transatlantic network as part of its long-term growth strategy.

The reintroduction of the Atlanta route further enhances the airline’s role as a vital bridge linking Africa with the rest of the world.

Tickets are available through Ethiopian Airlines’ website, mobile app, global ticket offices, Global Customer Interaction Centres, and authorised travel agents.

(Source: Ethiopian Airlines)

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Southeast Asia has emerged as one of South Africa’s fastest‑growing outbound travel source markets, with Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore all showing strong outbound travel growth. Looking forward to 2030, the minister forecast compound annual growth rates of around 8% across most travel segments. 

The region is also among the fastest‑growing air access markets to South Africa, with seat capacity from Asia and Australasia increasing by 37.6% year‑on‑year, signalling growing airline confidence and recovery momentum.

Singapore offers 12 flights weekly on the route to Johannesburg, operated with 259-seat A350-900s. The round-trip economy fare on the route averages USD1670. There are no direct flights from Jakarta or Kuala Lumpur to Johannesburg.

The Minister’s outreach will focus on translating this growth potential into sustained arrivals, deeper partnerships and long‑term economic value for South Africa. The visit will commence on 2 Singapore, followed by engagements in Malaysia from 4 February, before concluding the mission in Indonesia on 6 February.

Strengthening air connectivity 

A key priority of the visit is to unlock growth through stronger air links and aviation partnerships, recognising air access as a critical enabler of tourism growth.

In Singapore, Minister de Lille will hold high‑level engagements with Singapore Airlines and Changi Airport Group to discuss route development, expanding flight frequencies, potential incentive mechanisms and opportunities to strengthen South Africa’s position as a gateway to Africa for Southeast Asian travellers.

Singapore offers 12 flights weekly on the route to Johannesburg, operated with 259-seat A350-900s. The round-trip economy fare on the route averages USD1670. There are no direct flights from Jakarta or Kuala Lumpur to Johannesburg.

In Indonesia, the Minister will engage with multiple international and regional carriers at the ASTINDO Travel Fair in Jakarta, including Singapore Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, AirAsia, Lion Air Group, and the newly established Indonesia Airlines, as well as other carriers operating in the market.

These engagements aim to support connectivity, codeshare opportunities, and joint efforts to stimulate demand across Southeast Asia.

Shaping tourism 

The visit will also reinforce South Africa’s strategy of aligning its tourism offering with the preferences of Southeast Asian travellers, while recognising the region’s diversity.

In Indonesia and Malaysia, engagements will place strong emphasis on Halal‑friendly tourism offerings, luxury travel experiences and tailored long‑haul products, particularly in destinations such as Cape Town, Durban and South Africa’s renowned natural attractions.

In Singapore, a high‑value and mature market, the focus will be on business travel, MICE, repeat visitation, and premium leisure, reflecting Singapore’s role as a strategic gateway to Southeast Asia.

Minister de Lille said: “My first official visit to Southeast Asia as Minister of Tourism comes at a time when the region is showing strong growth potential for South Africa. We are here to work closely with our partners to expand air access, align our tourism offerings with market demand, and unlock new opportunities that will foster bilateral trade growth. We are confident that this visit will deliver meaningful outcomes that strengthen our partnerships with the region over the long term.”

Ministerial meetings and trade engagement

During the visit, Minister de Lille will undertake a series of bilateral meetings with counterparts and key stakeholders, including:

A bilateral meeting with Singapore’s Minister of State for the Ministry of Trade & Industry, and the Ministry of National Development, Alvin Tan.

Engagements with the Singapore Tourism Board to exchange insights on destination marketing, events‑led tourism growth and digital platforms.

A bilateral meeting with Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dato Sri Tiong King Sing.

A bilateral meeting with Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, including the signing of a tourism cooperation MOU to strengthen collaboration between the two countries.

Minister de Lille will also host industry meetings in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia, bringing together hotel groups, financial institutions, property developers and investment companies. Discussions will focus on collaboration opportunities across hospitality, eco‑tourism, nature‑based developments and supporting infrastructure.

(Source: South African Tourism)

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Ethiopian Airlines will leverage the 787-9 jets to grow its route network, which currently serves 145 international destinations.

The airline’s latest 787 purchase follows its commitment for 11 737 MAX jets announced at the Dubai Airshow. Both orders were finalised in December 2025 and boost Ethiopian Airlines’ order book by 20 fuel-efficient Boeing aircraft.

“We are pleased to confirm the order for nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to expand our existing fleet further. This order underscores our continued commitment to enhancing our fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, thereby further strengthening our customer service,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew. “We will continue to acquire more aircraft and adopt the latest technologies as part of our strategic vision to advance sustainable aviation.”

Ethiopian Airlines operates Africa’s largest 787 Dreamliner fleet, flying 787-8 and 787-9 jets on intercontinental routes from Addis Ababa to high-demand destinations across Europe, Asia and North America, as well as key intra-African routes.

“The 787 Dreamliner family has proven to be a game-changer for airlines around the world, and we are proud to support Ethiopian Airlines in their mission to connect Africa with the global community,” said Boeing Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa Anbessie Yitbarek.

Ethiopian Airlines operates the largest Boeing fleet in Africa and has the continent’s largest backlog of 737 MAXs, 777X and 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

(Source: Boeing)

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With the addition of Lyon, Ethiopian Airlines will expand its network in France to three destinations, in addition to Paris and Marseille, further strengthening its presence in Europe.

Flight schedule

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO  Mesfin Tasew commented: “We are delighted to expand our presence in France with the addition of Lyon to our extensive global network. France has long been a key market for Ethiopian Airlines. With over five decades of connecting the country to Africa and beyond, we remain committed to strengthening our services to and from France and the region.”

Ethiopian Airlines’ flights between Europe and Africa offer seamless connectivity to more than 65 destinations in Africa.

(Source: Ethiopian Airlines)

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The six-suite property in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, A&K Sanctuary’s smallest and most intimate, combines sustainability-focused design with meticulous craftsmanship to create what designers describe as a “living gallery” where the delta itself becomes the artwork. 

Perched on the floodplains of the Boro River at the edge of the Moremi Game Reserve, the rebuilt lodge draws inspiration from Thomas Baines’ artistic legacy. Working in partnership with Luxury Frontiers, the design team has created spaces that frame views of the wetland with such intention that the landscape reads like a series of paintings. 

Architecture as a gallery 

The lodge operates under a concept designers describe as an “African pavilion gallery.” Open-plan spaces defined by columns rather than walls create fluid transitions between indoors and outdoors. Raised on stilts and linked by wooden walkways, the six suites and communal areas have a distinctly nautical feel, transplanted into the reedy, wildlife-rich water-world of the delta. 

 Explore the delta

The lodge’s Explorer’s Lounge is equipped with spotting scopes, interactive maps and a library, whilst Leica binoculars are provided at check-in for wildlife viewing from private decks. A swimming pool extends the watery theme, with sweeping delta views from sun loungers. 

Game drives in the early morning and late afternoon explore one of Africa’s most biodiverse habitats. The Okavango Delta’s wildlife populations are extraordinary: Elephants move through the channels in significant numbers, whilst lions, leopards and wild dogs hold territories across the concession. When seasonal floods transform the landscape between May and September, the 5,800-square-mile patchwork of waterways attracts concentrations of resident and migratory birdlife. 

When water levels permit, traditional mokoro canoe excursions and motorised boat trips offer different perspectives on the delta’s wetland ecology. Scenic helicopter flights reveal the vast scale from above. 

Baines’ Lodge is now accepting bookings. Minimum guest age is 16. The property can be experienced as part of A&K’s signature journeys: A&K Sanctuary Safari — Victoria Falls to the Okavango Delta, or Safari Odyssey Across Southern Africa. 

About AKTG (Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group)
AKTG is a global lifestyle and travel company encompassing premier travel brands, including Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal, Cox & Kings, and Ecoventura, as well as strategic investments in other travel companies. 

About Abercrombie & Kent  
Abercrombie & Kent pioneered luxury adventure travel with its first African safaris in 1962. 

About A&K Sanctuary 
A&K Sanctuary, part of the A&K Travel Group family, owns and operates luxury safari camps and lodges across Eastern and Southern Africa, as well as riverboats in Egypt and Peru. 

(Source: A&K)

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The agreement for 11 B737-8, signed at the Dubai Airshow, will enable Ethiopian Airlines to grow its regional and international networks and expand its Addis Ababa hub. 

“We are thrilled to be announcing our agreement with Boeing for an additional 11 B737-8 aircraft during the Dubai Airshow,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew. “The order will support our growth plans that we have set as part of our vision and strategy. We are happy that our partnership with Boeing continues to grow over the years, and we look forward to flying Boeing aircraft for years to come.”

The carrier leverages the reliability, efficiency, and range of its 737 MAX fleet on routes across Africa, the Middle East, India, and Southern Europe, where quick turnarounds and frequency are essential to meet passenger demand.

“Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to expand its 737 MAX fleet underscores its leadership in Africa. Our new agreement also strengthens our nearly 80-year partnership with the airline and region,” said Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing Brad McMullen. “We are proud that our efficient and versatile aircraft will continue to play a pivotal role in Ethiopian Airlines’ growth as they further connect the African continent and the world.” 

(Source: Ethiopian Airlines)

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Scheduled to open in July 2026, with sales commencing in October 2025, this project is the country’s first high-end all-inclusive resort, combining the best of beachside relaxation and exclusive ‘Big Five’ safari adventure.

Club Med East, South Asia and Pacific (ESAP) CEO Rachael Harding said: “The launch of Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari marks an exciting first for our brand – our very first footprint in South Africa. This project not only celebrates the extraordinary beauty of KwaZulu-Natal but also offers a unique blend of beach and safari experiences. It’s a truly unique offering that we believe will deeply appeal to our clients in ESAP and beyond, who are consistently seeking new and immersive travel experiences.”

This landmark opening will reinforce Club Med’s pioneering spirit by bringing its unique brand of premium all-inclusive holidays to a region still relatively untouched by international tourism. The resort will be situated just 30 minutes from King Shaka International Airport and developed across 32 hectares of unspoilt natural surroundings.

It will feature 411 accommodations, including Superior and Deluxe rooms as well as an Exclusive Collection Ilanga section with 66 suites. Designed in collaboration with South African architects Craft of Architecture and supported by interior designers Mobius and MHNA of Paris, the resort will blend harmoniously into its natural environment while paying homage to Zulu culture through the use of locally sourced materials, authentic design motifs and a natural palette.

For the first time in Club Med’s history, a resort experience will be paired with an exclusive private safari adventure. Located within an 18,000-hectare game reserve, Mpilo Safari Lodge will be reserved for Club Med guests, offering premium tented accommodation with panoramic views and a full range of amenities. Daily guided drives, led by experienced rangers, will allow guests to encounter the “Big Five” – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and Cape buffalo – in their natural habitat. 

Families will also be able to enjoy specially adapted drives designed for younger children. Evenings will feature traditional Boma gatherings with barbecues and storytelling around the fire, bringing the authentic magic of the African savannah to life.

The opening of Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari also carries significant economic and social benefits for the region. Representing an investment of more than 2 billion rand (approximately EUR100 million), the project is being developed in partnership with Collins Residential and a South African Investment Consortium. It is expected to generate over 800 direct and 1,500 indirect jobs, with 1,200 construction workers already employed from neighbouring communities.  

Bookings for Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari will open in October 2025, ahead of its grand opening in July 2026.

(Source: Club Med.)

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This new route marks a significant milestone in Ethiopian Airlines’ ever-expanding global network, strengthening socio-economic ties between Ethiopia and Portugal.

The service operates four times a week, departing Addis Ababa at 2310 on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. The 315-seat Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, flight ET740, makes a transit stop in Madrid, Spain, landing at 0555 and departing for Porto, Portugal at 0655.

The return flight ET741 departs Porto at 1955 and makes a transit stop in Madrid at 2210 before taking off for Addis Ababa at 2310. 

Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city and a major cultural and economic centre. Its historic centre is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an attractive destination for both leisure and business travellers.

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This strategic expansion further strengthens the airline’s commitment to enhancing connectivity across the African continent and beyond, fostering regional socio-economic growth and facilitating trade and tourism.

The new route will provide seamless travel options for passengers between Ethiopia and Sudan and connect travellers across the Ethiopian Airlines network to this significant Red Sea port city. 

Flight schedule

Flight ET350 departs from Addis Ababa at 1100 and arrives in Port Sudan at 1215.
Flight ET351 departs Port Sudan at 1415 and arrives in Addis Ababa at 1730. 

The airline will deploy Boeing 737 Max aircraft on the route.

“We are pleased to connect our Sudanese brothers and sisters from Port Sudan to Addis Ababa and the rest of the world using our extensive global network,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew. “By introducing daily flights to Port Sudan, we are bridging cultures and economies. This expansion is a testament to our unwavering dedication to serve our continent and its people, driving progress and prosperity through the skies.”

With the inclusion of Port Sudan, Ethiopian Airlines expands its network to 66 destinations in Africa. This new route will improve connectivity for business and leisure travellers. 

Port Sudan, a city strategically situated along the Red Sea, is an important centre for commerce and economics in the region.

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