ABU DHABI, 12 January 2026: Etihad Airways confirms it will start flights to Luxembourg this October, making it the first airline from the Middle East to serve the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
Services will commence on 29 October 2026 from its Abu Dhabi home. Bookings are already open on the airline’s website and through online travel agencies. A round-trip economy fare starts at EUR2,708 for the six-hour and 30-minute flight.
Photo credit: Etihad. Luxembourg’s UNESCO world heritage-listed old town.
The new route reflects growing demand from travellers across Luxembourg, the Benelux region, France and Germany for direct access to Abu Dhabi.
Services will operate from Luxembourg Airport (LUX), providing guests with direct access to Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s vibrant capital.
Flights will operate three times per week (Monday, Thursday, and Saturday) on Etihad’s A321LR, configured with a three-class cabin.
The route will enhance connectivity for both business and leisure travellers and further strengthen economic and cultural ties between the EU and the UAE. With Luxembourg also serving as a gateway market for neighbouring France, Germany and Belgium, the new service strengthens Etihad’s presence across these broader European markets.
Etihad Airways, Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said: “This route is about more than connectivity — it is about building new bridges between Europe and the UAE, unlocking opportunities for business, tourism and cultural exchange.”
Guests will also benefit from access to Etihad’s expansive global network, with seamless onward connections through Abu Dhabi’s state-of-the-art Zayed International Airport (AUH) to a wide range of countries, including popular destinations in Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and India.
Travellers from Abu Dhabi and across Etihad’s network can discover the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, a European gem renowned for its castles, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, blending historic charm with modern European sophistication.
KUALA LUMPUR, 12 January 2026: Malaysia Airlines has resumed flights from its home base in Kuala Lumpur to Chengdu, reinforcing its commitment to the Greater China market and strengthening connectivity between Malaysia and Western China.
The inaugural MH526 flight departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) Terminal 1 to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) on 9 January 2026 and achieved an impressive load factor of 91% on its outbound leg.
Photo credit: Malaysia Airlines.
The event was attended by representatives from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), including Sagar Sanjay Dighe, Chief Executive Officer of MAG Culinary Solutions; Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airline Business; and Ibrahim Mohd Salleh, Chief Operating Officer of AeroDarat Services, marking a celebratory and memorable send-off for the new route.
With the addition of Chengdu, Malaysia Airlines now serves seven destinations across Greater China, reflecting continued confidence in the market. Operating daily, the direct route is expected to support growing two-way travel demand and strengthen business and leisure connectivity, and offer passengers seamless onward connections via Kuala Lumpur to destinations across ASEAN, South Asia, and Australasia.
The timing of the service aligns with the extension of mutual visa-free travel arrangements between Malaysia and China, enabling longer stays and encouraging greater travel flows between both countries.
SINGAPORE, 9 January 2026: Hong Kong’s Royal Garden hotel brand is expanding for the first time in 44 years with the opening of The Royal Garden Kowloon East in Tseung Kwan O in January 2026.
The 366-room urban resort is a restyled transformation of the former Crowne Plaza Kowloon East. As the developer that first created The Royal Garden in Tsim Sha Tsui in 1981, Sun Hung Kai Properties has reimagined the property for a new era while preserving its signature quiet elegance.
Photo credit: Royal Garden Kowloon East.
This serene escape from the city’s hectic pace features seven exclusive villas with private gardens, tailored for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts, and pet-friendly.
Dining will be elevated with the launch of Ponentino, which is inspired by The Royal Garden’s original and award-winning Sabatini Ristorante Italiano. Scheduled to open in July 2026, on the highest floor of the hotel, Ponentino will extend onto a spacious outdoor terrace, offering breathtaking views of Tseung Kwan O’s natural beauty, particularly at sunset.
“This contemporary urban resort offers a redefined hospitality experience that caters to the evolving needs of modern travellers while retaining the essence of The Royal Garden legacy,” says General Manager Johnny Cheung. “The Royal Garden Kowloon East represents an exciting milestone for Sun Hung Kai Properties and will be an exciting new addition to Hong Kong’s hospitality scene.”
The Royal Garden Kowloon East will be unveiled in three phases in 2026. Guest rooms and suites this month; exclusive villas and family-focused amenities in March; and the final phase concluding in July with the grand opening of Ponentino.
Opening rate
Book directly at the hotel’s website using the promo code RGKE to receive 25% off, plus up to two complimentary breakfasts per room, daily. This limited-time offer is valid for bookings made until 31 March 2026.
KUCHING, 9 January 2026: Sarawak ushered in 2026 in celebratory fashion, with a landmark Guinness World Record (GWR) achievement at the Kuching Waterfront, reaffirming the state’s position as the Gateway to Borneo and setting the tone for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Crowds gathered along the iconic waterfront on the night of 31 December 2025 to witness Countdown 2026, organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP).
From left: YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak; YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier of Sarawak and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government; and Mr Jacob Yip Chong Wai, Guinness World Records Adjudicator, during the presentation of the Guinness World Records certificate for the Longest Cumulative Distance by a Remote-Controlled Multirotor Drone Relay.
The celebration featured more than 10 performances by leading local, national, and international artists, culminating in a breathtaking musical fireworks display as the clock struck midnight.
In a landmark milestone for the state, Sarawak achieved the Guinness World Record for the Longest Cumulative Distance by a Remote-Controlled Multirotor/Drone Relay, marking a first-of- its-kind accomplishment.
The record-setting journey covered 1,706.7 kilometres across Sarawak over six days, using successive GPS-tracked drones to trace an unbroken aerial path from Tanjung Datu to Lawas.
The achievement was officially confirmed on stage by Guinness World Records adjudicator Jacob Yip Chong Wai from Hong Kong, followed by the presentation of the GWR certificate to YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Sarawak.
“This Guinness World Record achievement represents Sarawak’s confidence as a progressive, united and forward-looking state,” said YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. “It reflects who we are today, a Sarawak that embraces innovation while remaining deeply rooted in our culture, people, and landscapes. As the Gateway to Borneo, this moment belongs not only to Sarawak, but to the region we connect and the future we are shaping together.”
The announcement was accompanied by the world premiere of the “Gateway to Borneo” drone film, a cinematic showcase capturing Sarawak’s landscapes, cultures, and communities from a bird’s-eye perspective.
Looking ahead, the milestone underscored Sarawak’s readiness to build momentum for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 by leveraging creativity, technology, and storytelling to strengthen its position as a vibrant, globally relevant destination.
For more information on Sarawak attractions and tourism, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board.
MANILA, 9 January 2026: A surge in holiday travel during the Christmas long break underscored the strength of domestic tourism in the Philippines, the Department of Tourism reported, noting the popularity of beaches, heritage sites, mountain retreats, and island destinations.
Leading holiday destinations saw robust visitor turnout, with Boracay Island in Western Visayas recording the highest arrivals at 118,745 tourists from 15 to 28 December 2025, as Filipinos gathered to celebrate Christmas by the beach.
The region also welcomed cruise passengers during the holidays, with Star Navigator and Norwegian Sun making multiple port calls.
Photo credit: Department of Tourism Philippines.
In second and third place, Cebu City welcomed 102,124 visitors. At the same time, Panglao Island in Bohol hosted 62,240 tourists, reflecting sustained domestic travel to Central Visayas despite the region having faced a series of natural calamities earlier in the year.
Meanwhile, Tacloban City in Eastern Visayas saw some 25,194 overnight guests. The most-visited tourist destination in the region was Malajog Beach in Calbayog City, Samar, with approximately 56,543 tourists.
In the Cordilleras, Baguio City — long regarded as a favourite Christmas destination — recorded 117,137 visitors from 15 December to New Year’s Eve, drawn by its cool weather, festive lights, and seasonal sound-and-light shows.
In Bicol, Camarines Sur attracted 92,000 visitors over the holiday break, while neighbouring Albay welcomed 45,000 tourists, many travelling along scenic routes framed by views of the iconic Mayon Volcano.
Northern Luzon destinations also saw steady holiday traffic. La Union recorded 47,338 foreign and local visitors seeking a beach escape, while Ilocos Sur welcomed 32,232 tourists drawn to its heritage streets and coastal landscapes. Meanwhile, Nueva Vizcaya received 10,012 visitors, many opting for nature-based and countryside travel during the break.
Island destinations remained popular for a “summer in December” experience. El Nido, Palawan, welcomed 40,000 tourists, while Coron recorded 17,850 visitors. Puerto Galera also drew 13,204 holiday travellers.
In Mindanao, the Province of Sarangani in SOCCSKSARGEN* welcomed 26,191 visitors, reflecting growing interest in the region’s diverse landscapes.
Siargao Island attracted 32,742 tourists, while Bukidnon recorded 9,488 visitors drawn to its rolling mountains and cool climate. Camiguin Island likewise welcomed 6,558 tourists during the Christmas season.
In Metro Manila, the historic Walled City of Intramuros once again became a focal point for holiday visits, as Filipinos flocked to its illuminated streets, churches, and heritage landmarks.
“The strength of domestic tourism in the Philippines remains a driving force of our travel industry. The Christmas holidays once again showed how Filipinos continue to explore and support our own destinations,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.
“From ridge to reef, cities to heritage towns, domestic travel helps communities recover and thrive, boosts the economy, and supports more equitable tourism development across our regions.”
ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026
DOT is spearheading preparations for the 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), 28 to 30 January, with the Cebu City Tourism Commission hosting cultural and heritage activities for delegates attending the three-day Travex travel mart.
“As we prepare for ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, we are confident in the Philippines’ readiness to welcome our ASEAN neighbours with excellence and warmth,” Secretary Frasco added.
“Through this milestone event, we aim to showcase the Filipino brand of hospitality while strengthening regional cooperation and building a resilient, competitive tourism industry for the future.”
SOCCSKSARGEN
*Acronym for its core areas: SOuth Cotabato, Cotabato (Province), Sarangani, Koronadal (City, the regional centre), Sultan Kudarat, and General Santos (City).
Manila airport passenger volume peaks
Meanwhile, the Philippines News Agency reports that passenger traffic at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) reached nearly 2.6 million during the holiday season, up 6.86% year over year (YoY).
New NAIA Infra Corp (NNIC) released traffic data for 20 December to 4 January, showing a passenger volume of 2,589,889. Flights also increased 3.29% YoY, with 13,766 flights during the holiday break.
HONG KONG, 9 January 2026: Cathay officially launched its 80th-anniversary celebrations earlier this week, marking eight decades of serving its home city, its people, and its global customers since 1946.
To mark this milestone year and honour its legacy, Cathay will host a series of special events throughout 2026, all anchored by the unifying theme “80 Years Together”.
Cathay officially kicked off its “80 Years Together” anniversary celebrations at a special event, hosted by Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam (fifth from right), Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau (fifth from left), Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer Alex McGowan (fourth from left), and Chief Financial Officer Rebecca Sharpe (fourth from right).
As a prelude to its “80 Years Together” celebrations, Cathay presented a special aircraft livery on one of its long-haul Airbus A350 passenger aircraft at a launch event. Adorned with the airline’s iconic “lettuce leaf sandwich” design and the 80th anniversary year mark, the livery pays homage to the much-loved green-and-white striped paint scheme, echoing Cathay’s storied legacy while symbolising its continued growth and progress. A second “lettuce leaf sandwich” livery on one of Cathay’s Boeing 747 freighters will also be revealed in the coming weeks.
Speaking at the event, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam said: “Today marks not just an important milestone for Cathay, but a celebration of our ‘80 Years Together with Hong Kong. Guided by our purpose to move people forward in life, Cathay and Hong Kong have grown together over the past eight decades, supporting each other through thick and thin.
“Looking ahead, through our investment of well over HK$100 billion into our fleet, cabin products, lounges and digital innovation, Cathay will continue to elevate the customer experience as we strive towards our refreshed vision to become our customers’ most loved service brand. At the same time, we remain steadfast in our commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s status as a leading international aviation hub.”
Photo credits: Cathay Group.
Cabin crew members donning Cathay Pacific’s vintage uniforms across various design eras also made a special appearance, paying tribute to the generations who have defined the signature Cathay service in the skies. Throughout 2026, around 1,000 to 2,000 of Cathay’s cabin crew and ground employees will wear and showcase these vintage uniforms at work, bringing the evolution of the Cathay brand to life in true Cathay fashion.
KUALA LUMPUR, 9 January 2026: AirAsia rolled out its annual fixed-fare initiatives on Thursday, which flag low fares for the upcoming festive seasons: Lunar New Year and Hari Raya.
This year, the fixed-fare initiatives are being launched concurrently with the airline’s two festive seasons. During the festive season, AirAsia schedules 1,578 flights across both Lunar New Year and Hari Raya, offering more than 31,000 seats at fixed fares.
(Second from left) En. Farouk Kamal, Deputy Group CEO (Corporate), AirAsia Aviation Group; YB Tuan Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia; YB Datuk Haji Hasbi Bin Habibollah, Deputy Minister of Transport Malaysia and Dato’Dato’ain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, at the launch of AirAsAirAsia’sal fixed fares earlier this week.
Minister of Transport, YB Loke Siew Fook commented: “Ensuring Malaysians travel home affordably during key festive seasons continues to be a priority for the government. AirAsia’s d-fareatives reflect the airline’s commitment to this goal, keeping air travel within reach for more families. Such efforts work hand in hand with existing government measures, including the RM400 FLYsiswa programme, which assists students travelling between Peninsular and East Malaysia.”
AirAsia Malaysia CEO Captain Fareh Mazputra said: “AirAsia is kicking off the new year with double festive celebrations, offering our annual fixed fare initiatives for both the Lunar New Year and Hari Raya. With more than 31,000 seats available during the festive period, this initiative is part of our commitment to help Malaysians travel affordably and plan ahead. We are proud to support government efforts in ensuring smooth and accessible travel for all, particularly during high-demand periods.”
During the Chinese New Year period, flights to Sarawak are priced at MYR328* all-inclusive, one-way, from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching, Miri, Sibu, and Bintulu, while flights to Sabah are priced at MYR398, one-way, to Kota Kinabalu, Tawau, and Sandakan. Book now until 24 February 2026, for travel between 13 and 24 February 2026.
Flights for Hari Raya are priced at MYR328 all-in one-way to Sarawak and MYR398 all-in one-way to Sabah on routes from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching, Miri, Sibu, Bintulu, Kota Kinabalu, Tawau, and Sandakan. Book now through 26 March 2026 and travel between 18 and 26 March 2026 to enjoy fixed-fare flights.
Over the past three years, AirAsia has made more than 137,000 fixed-fare seats available for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah and Sarawak, and has introduced 761 additional flights to East Malaysia to meet increased demand, ensuring families can plan their journeys home with greater certainty and affordability.
*Promotional fixed fares quoted are for one-way travel, including passenger service charge, regulatory service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. Valid for selected flights only. T&C apply.
DELHI, 9 January 2026: IndiGo becomes the first Indian airline to induct an Airbus A321XLR into its fleet, marking a significant milestone in its long-term international expansion strategy.
The long-range variant of the Airbus A321neo arrived at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, on 7 January 2026. It will be deployed on the airline’s upcoming non-stop services connecting Mumbai to Athens from 23 January 2026, and Delhi to Athens from 24 January 2026, operating thrice weekly on both routes.
The Airbus A321XLR, a next-generation narrow-body aircraft with a range of up to 8,700 km and enhanced fuel efficiency, will enable IndiGo to serve longer international routes from India while maintaining high cost efficiency. The aircraft features a dual-class configuration with 12 IndiGoStretch seats and 183 economy-class seats.
Of the firm order for 40 A321XLR aircraft, nine are expected to be delivered in 2026.
After its first international induction operating non-stop services to Athens, subsequent aircraft will be deployed on existing routes such as Istanbul, Turkey and Denpasar, Bali.
Further deliveries will enable IndiGo to expand its long-haul route network in Europe and East Asia.
KUALA LUMPUR, 9 January 2026: Perhentian Islands* have emerged as the fastest-growing destination for attracting international travellers in Malaysia, according to digital travel platform Agoda’s latest New Horizons ranking.
The travel platform further reveals that Sitiawan is the top-trending domestic destination, and Phu Quoc Island (Vietnam) is also emerging as a popular destination among Malaysian outbound travellers.
Agoda’s New Horizons ranking, which is released annually, compares the accommodation booking ranks of the two previous years to identify the highest climbers in international travel in Asia.
Agoda’s Country Director Malaysia and Brunei, Fabian Teja said: “Travellers today are looking beyond the usual hotspots, and destinations like the Perhentian Islands, Sitiawan, and Phu Quoc reflect a growing appetite for authentic, nature-led, and culturally rich experiences.
“At Agoda, we’re excited to help travellers discover these rising destinations by making travel more accessible through great value deals across accommodation, flights, and activities, all in one easy-to-use platform.”
The Perhentian Islands rose to 14th place in 2025, up from 16th in 2024, reflecting their growing appeal among international visitors. Known for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, the islands offer exceptional snorkelling and diving experiences.
Sitiawan, meanwhile, has become the top domestic destination, rising to rank 43 in 2025 from 48 in 2024, indicating a growing interest among local travellers. This charming town is famous for its delicious seafood and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore traditional temples and enjoy the warm hospitality of the local community.
For Malaysians travelling abroad, Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam has seen a rise in popularity, jumping to rank 21 in 2025 from 34 in 2024. With its stunning beaches and luxury resorts, Phu Quoc offers a tropical paradise for relaxation. The island’s vibrant night markets and fresh seafood make it a culinary delight for travellers.
Looking at the top emerging destinations for Asian travellers combined, Sapa (Vietnam) tops the list as Asia’s rising star. Vietnam’s scenic mountain destination is followed by Okayama (Japan), Bandung (Indonesia), Matsuyama (Japan), and Takamatsu (Japan) as the top five destinations in Asia with the highest growth in international travel interest.
*The Perhentian Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Besut District, Terengganu, Malaysia. The two main islands are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil.
DUBAI, 9 January 2026: Meraas, a member of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has unveiled an expanded residential masterplan for Dubai Design District (d3), transforming the district into one of Dubai’s most desirable creative-led waterfront neighbourhoods.
Located between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Creek Harbour, the enhanced masterplan spans 18 million sqft of land. Designed and delivered by Meraas, the neighbourhood blends residential, cultural, retail, and hospitality experiences, reinforcing Dubai’s ambition to strengthen its position as a global centre for design, innovation, and culture, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Photo credit: Dubai Holding Real Estate.
A defining feature of the new masterplan is the Design Line, a fully shaded, pedestrian-first spine that seamlessly connects the entire district. Activated through public art, creative installations, community spaces and landscaped green corridors, it will support walkable, human-centric living while strengthening d3’s identity as one of Dubai’s most design-forward urban neighbourhoods.
Five distinct areas will shape the character of the new neighbourhood. Along the canal, the first will introduce contemporary residences and boutique hospitality set against an activated waterfront promenade. The urban core will unite residential offerings with curated retail and dining, integrated with d3’s established global creative ecosystem. A third area will become the cultural heart of the community, featuring performance venues and mid-rise residences overlooking the d3 Bowl. Another will offer a wellness-focused residential setting defined by parks, sports facilities and a mangrove-inspired landscape. The final area will become a centre for creativity, with galleries, studios and loft-style spaces designed to support collaboration, creativity and artistic production.
Dubai Holding Real Estate Chief Executive Officer Khalid Al Malik said: “Expanding the Dubai Design District masterplan into a fully integrated creative neighbourhood is a significant step in advancing the ambitions of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. This development strengthens Dubai Design District’s position as a global benchmark for design-focused urban living. It reaffirms Dubai’s status as a destination of choice for long-term investment, talent and innovation.”
