Our popular Indian Ocean and Middle East Connect event is back in October with a host of NEW partners.
Partners confirmed so far include: RIU Hotels & Resorts, Air Arabia, Ras Al Khaimah, Cinnamon Hotels, Air Mauritius, El Gouna, Beachcomber Tours, Ajman Tourism, Sunlife, Adaaran – Maldives, The Lux Collective, Standard Maldives, JA Resorts, Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel.
The evening will consist of catching up over refreshments, speed dating with suppliers, a panel Q&A.
London October 5
Sky Bar
Tower Suites
100 Minories,
London, EC3N 1JY
6pm – 9.15pm
Nottingham October 6
Jubilee Hotel
Triumph Road,
Nottingham NG7 2TU
6pm – 9.15pm
Solihull October 7
Hogarths Hotel
Four Ashes Rd,
Dorridge,
Solihull B93 8QE
6pm – 9.15pm
Places are limited so RSVP as soon as possible to secure a spot.
Order of evening
6.00 – 7.00pm
Agents arrive/networking with F&B service
7.00 – 8.30pm
Agent speed-dating
8.30 – 8.40pm
Break
8.40 – 9.00pm
Q&A with suppliers
9.00 – 9.15pm
Prize draws
9.15pm
Finish
Meet the exhibitors
CINNAMON HOTELS & RESORTS
(London only)
Cinnamon Resorts, Maldives consists of four resorts in the Maldives to include the Cinnamon Ellaidhoo, a four-star property reached by either seaplane or boat transfer and known for its exceptional and pristine house reef, Cinnamon Dhonveli, another four-star property just a short 20 min boat transfer from Male Airport and known for its famous Pasta Point surfing point, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa, a five-star property reached by seaplane, consisting of two islands and adults only, and lastly, the Cinnamon Velifushi, reached by either seaplane or boat transfer and their highest level five-star property surrounded by a fantastic 360 degree beautiful white sand beach. The Cinnamon Group is Sri Lankan owned and part of the larger company called John Keells Holdings plc which operates across seven industry sectors. In the hospitality sector of John Keells Holdings, there also includes an additional 12 properties across the whole of Sri Lanka.
Contact: Katharine Wood katharine@pearlglobalcollection.com
JA Resorts & Hotels
(Solihull only)
A heritage UAE brand with roots dating back to 1981, JA Resorts & Hotels is built on a legacy of nurturing hospitality and thoughtful experiences. The group’s portfolio spans nine distinctive properties across the UAE, Indian Ocean, and Scotland — each with their own character, united by a shared spirit of generosity, authenticity, and care.
In Dubai, the collection spans six distinctive properties along the peaceful shores of Jebel Ali Beach and beyond. JA Beach Hotel offers a relaxed, family-led beachfront experience steeped in heritage. JA Palm Tree Court is an all-suite sanctuary with direct beach access and a true sense of privacy. JA Lake View Hotel brings a contemporary, lifestyle-led energy with outstanding dining — including Kinara by celebrated chef Vikas Khanna. For those drawn to the city’s vibrant pulse, JA Ocean View Hotel sits on the Jumeirah Beach Residence promenade with uninterrupted Arabian Gulf views. JA Hatta Fort Hotel offers a mountain retreat rooted in nature and discovery in the Hajar Mountains. The portfolio is further complemented by the JA Sports & Shooting Club — a destination for golf, recreation, and performance opening later this year.
In the Maldives, the Forbes-recommended JA Manafaru delivers barefoot luxury in the pristine Haa Alifu Atoll — one of the archipelago’s most unspoiled corners, where Maldivian culture and natural beauty are woven into every moment of every stay.
JA Resorts & Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance and GHA DISCOVERY, the world’s largest independent hotel loyalty programme.
Contact: Gill Shannon gill.shannon@jaresorts.com
THE STANDARD MALDIVES
(Nottingham only)
Listed as one of “The Best Hotels in the Maldives” by Conde Nast Traveller and now part of the Hyatt Group, take a trip to paradise and make your island dreams a reality at The Standard, Maldives.
Just a short sea plane ride from Male’s Velana International Airport, expect a personalized experience perfect for lovers, friends and families alike. Each of our 115 villas, whether overwater or beachfront, boasts a private lounge deck and plunge pool. Spend your days exploring the island’s natural beauty with activities like snorkelling in our protected house reef, boating, deep diving and more. Relax and refresh at The Standard Spa, complete with a communal hammam, aroma steam room and daily yoga. Get back out there and do your thing at our weekly pool parties and live music events. Enjoy a floating breakfast, a private dinner under the stars or indulge in our all-inclusive dining options. From all-day dining at Kula to authentic Maldivian cuisine at Gudaguda, intimate sunsets while enjoying dinner at Onda which offers a curated selection of fresh Mediterranean cuisine and signature artisanal cocktails and fiery beachfront dining at BBQ Shak, get a taste of paradise.
Contact: Katharine Wood katharine@pearlglobalcollection.com
Sunlife
(Nottingham and Solihull only)
Whether you’re looking to keep the whole family entertained, immerse yourself in local culture or play world-famous golf courses, you’ll find what you’re looking for at one of Sunlife’s five luxury resorts.
Sugar Beach 5* is a glamorous sanctuary with indulgent sunset views and luxury at every turn. Formerly a sugar plantation, the original manor house provides an iconic backdrop for a fabulous stay.
Long Beach 5* is a modern resort with a sense of adventure unlike anywhere else. From sunrise kayaking, fine dining to bee-hive farming, this is where opulence meets opportunity.
La Pirogue 4+ is full of character and unrivalled local charm. Relax, explore and discover a whole new side to paradise at the most authentic resort in Mauritius. Ambre 4 is a breathtaking beach resort on the sunrise coast, where every hour is golden hour. Put your feet up and enjoy an adults-only, all-inclusive escape with unrivalled ocean views.
The Bay Club at Anahita 5* offers villas and suites, all beautifully spacious and nestled amongst lush greenery – perfect for a luxurious stay for families and larger groups.
Ile aux Cerfs is a world-renowned golf island, where all Sunlife guests can enjoy complimentary and unlimited green fees.
Contact: Lisa Balsom lisa.balsom@yoursunlife.com
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah offers an experience of a lifetime, where travellers can explore a diverse range of landscapes, from the sea and beaches to the desert and rugged mountain ranges.
With over 7,000 years of fascinating history, Ras Al Khaimah promises an
easily accessible Arabian experience. A haven of year-round sunshine, the
Emirate features over 68 km of pristine beaches, lush mangrove forests, and
terracotta sand dunes, as well as the dramatic, awe-inspiring vistas of the
majestic Hajar Mountains, including the UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Jais,
where temperatures are around 10 degrees cooler than at sea level.
Beyond its natural beauty, Ras Al Khaimah offers a growing portfolio of
world-class resorts, cultural heritage sites, adventure attractions, and
authentic local experiences, making it an ideal destination for leisure
travellers, families, and adventure seekers alike.
Contact: Emma Charlesworth emma@raktda.com
Address Hotels & Resorts
Emaar Hospitality Group are one of the world’s most valuable real estate development companies in the UAE.
The group have a strong footprint in Dubai and have expanded into international markets which include: Turkey, Egypt, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
The group owns and manages a portfolio of hospitality assets including: Address Hotels + Resorts, a premium luxury hotel and residences brand.
Armani Hotel, luxurious accommodation designed by Giorgio Arman and situated in the iconic Burj Khalifa.
Vida Hotels and Resorts; an upscale lifestyle hotel and residences brand.
Rove Hotels an award-winning lifestyle hotel and residences brand offering vibrantly designed properties in connected locations.
Emaar also own and operate popular attractions in Dubai and entertainment experiences which include:
• The Burj Khalifa – The tallest building in the world.
• The Dubai Fountain – World’s largest choreographed fountain system, located at the base of Burj Khalifa.
• Downtown Dubai – A flagship mega-development that includes Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain, and more.
• At the Top, Burj Khalifa – Observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors.
• Sky Views Dubai – A glass slide and edge walk at Address Sky View Hotel.
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
• VR Park
• Dubai Ice Rink
Contact: Rosina Azhar Rosinaa.gms@emaar.ae
Air Mauritius
Air Mauritius now operates a five time a week with non-stop flights from London Gatwick to Mauritius using the latest state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 and A330-900Neo aircraft with comfortable seating and up-to-date inflight entertainment, there is no better way to start your Holiday in Mauritius. Also flying from 6 regional UK airports with our Partner Air France via Paris where a double daily Air Mauritius flight operates.
Whether you travel in Economy or Business Class you will benefit from complimentary drinks and fine wines with a choice of menu, showcasing Mauritian cuisines to capture the fusion of flavours that is unique to Mauritius. Personal amenity kits are available to all passengers as well as children’s packs.
As soon as your board the Air Mauritius plane you will feel like you have already arrived on the beautiful Island of Mauritius that is home to the welcoming Mauritian people.
Contact: Allan Owen aowen@airmauritius.com
El Gouna
(London and Solihull only)
The thriving town of El Gouna was born more than 35 years ago when entrepreneur Samih Sawiris turned a swathe of desert into a seaside oasis for his family and friends.
El Gouna is now home to a multi-cultural community of over 25,000 residents, over 120 bars and restaurants, 18 hotels including The Chedi, El Gouna, Cook’s Club, Casa Cook and the Steigenberger Golf Resort , as well as the region’s largest cable park and two 18-hole PGA level golf courses.
Throughout its winding lagoons, El Gouna is home to a host of activities ideal for all travellers. Possibilities stretch from luxury catamaran trips on the Red Sea, diving experiences through the nearby corals, water sports with nine PADI diving centres and nine kitesurfing centres to choose from, desert mountain hiking excursions and day trips to archaeological spots, and relaxation in a tranquil spa at one of the many 5* resorts.
El Gouna is ideally situated only a 30-minute drive away from Hurghada International airport, bordering a beautiful 10km stretch of beach along Egypt’s Red Sea coast. With daily direct flights from the UK taking just five hours, El Gouna offers year-round sunshine, with over 300+ sunny days per year.
Contact: Peter Gregory peter.gregory@rooster.co.uk
Ajman Tourism
A 30-minute taxi ride from Dubai Airport but a world away, Ajman is the UAE’s hidden gem with world-class activities, untamed landscapes, pristine white sand beaches and luxurious resorts,
With its spotless shores, Ajman is regarded as having the prettiest beaches in the UAE. This tranquil enclave is fringed by almost a mile of soft natural sand,
Offering more value for money than some of the neighbouring emirates 4 and 5 star resorts come with their own slice of natural, sandy beach and offer a range of board options from room-only to fully all-inclusive.
The Heritage District is designed to preserve, highlight and promote the rich Arabian culture and history of Ajman and includes Ajman Museum. Housed inside an 18th-century fort and once home to the ruler’s family. now the UAE’s largest heritage museum including centuries-old manuscripts, antique weaponry, and locally excavated pottery dating back to 3,000BC.
The vast green coastal forests of Al Zorah Nature Reserve are perhaps the most unexpected sight in the UAE. The mangroves and wetlands are a haven for wildlife, providing a sanctuary for more than 60 species of bird, including flocks of pink flamingo. A coastal nursery for countless marine creatures, visitors can explore with guided kayaking tours through its lagoons.
Contact: Chris Lee Chris@ajmantourism.uk
Adaaran Resorts – Maldives
(Nottingham and Solihull only)
Adaaran is a chain of 4 superb Maldivian island resorts.
The ‘lead in’ resort Adaaran Club Rannalhi is typically Maldivian in style, nestled on a small private island at the tip of the South Male atoll. Its unique location offers pristine beaches, excellent scuba diving & is just 45 minutes by speedboat from the Male.
Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi is a larger island set over 83 acres of lush tropical beach, on Lhohifushi Island. This popular 5 includes 5 restaurants, 4 bars & an abundance of activities. Located just 30 minutes by speedboat from Male.
Adaaran Select Meedhupparu is an idyllic retreat for those seeking a relaxing escape. Set in the tranquil northerly Raa Atoll, this renowned resort has 4 restaurants, 4 bars & covers 43 acres of tropical greenery, sweeping white sand beaches & superb house reef. 45 minutes by seaplane from Male.
Adaaran Prestige Vadoo is the 5* island in the group & is only 15 minutes by speedboat from Male, in the South Malé Atoll. This ‘adult only’ boutique sized resort consists of 50 water villas and wonderful food/ beverage choices within the premium all-inclusive programme.
Contact: Jonathan Wilkins jon@select-rep.com
The Lux collective
(Nottingham only)
LIFE EXTRAORDINARY
Helping People Celebrate Life
At LUX* we believe that every single moment is worth celebrating and making remarkable. From life’s big moments to the small ones. Every moment is made extraordinary.
Our unique hotels in the most beautiful destinations celebrate the culture, the people, the nature, and the flavours of its destination in a way that makes the ordinary extraordinary.
Creative and caring, we serve our guests with passion. We have redefined luxury travel and imagined simple, vibrant and sensorial experiences to help you celebrate life. Unforgettable and surprisingly delightful moments await you at the heart of our resorts: a cinema Paradiso on the beach, a surprise Aperitivo, a Wanderlust library or a hidden message in a bottle for memories that will last long after your tan fades.
Contact: Andrea Hind andrea.hind@theluxcollective.com
Attitude Hotels
We are a Mauritian family-business with a collection of 3* – 4* eco-committed hotels in Mauritius & Zanzibar on a Positive Impact mission, to make tourism more sustainable. Our group proudly holds the B Corp label and we pride ourselves on offering a unique guest experience, genuine and authentic.
Every detail of your holiday has been thought out to preserve our environment, care for our community and support our local economy.
You won’t find any single-use plastic or individually packed sugar, tea, coffee or snacks in our rooms. Instead, you’re invited to stock up on what you need at the hotel’s Bulk Shop.
A stay at an Attitude Hotel can be a chilled-out beach holiday but it can also lead to a cleaner ocean. Let us show you what makes our island so special… like our sparkling lagoon.
Have dinner with a local family; relax in a beautiful room finished with locally made furniture and upcycled decorations; explore off-the-beaten track locations with the help of Attitude’s free Local Discovery mobile app; or take a break with 100% natural products at Spa POZ.
We’re a Made in Moris brand, so we source and use the best local products wherever possible. And because our commitment will have a greater impact if shared, you will be contributing to our Positive Impact movement when you stay at an Attitude hotel!
Contact: Emily Standen emily@hotels-attitude.com
Air Arabia
Air Arabia is the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest budget carrier operator, headquartered in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Founded in 2003 by an Amiri Decree of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, the airline commenced operations in October 2003 and has since grown into one of the region’s leading aviation success stories.
Operating a modern fleet comprised entirely of Airbus A320 and A321 family aircraft, Air Arabia connects passengers to more than 200 destinations across the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, Europe, and Africa through six strategic hubs in the UAE (Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah), Morocco, Egypt, and Pakistan through its joint venture airline, Fly Jinnah.
Air Arabia Group is an award-winning airline operator committed to providing reliable, comfortable, and value-driven air travel. The airline continues to focus of offering value-added services, including “SkyCafe” the onboard catering, “SkyTime” the complimentary inflight entertainment, and “Air Rewards” its loyalty programme, alongside travel insurance, holiday packages, and cargo solutions catering to both leisure and business travellers.
The airline is recognized for its strong focus on operational efficiency, customer service, innovation, and delivering value for money. Air Arabia continues to expand its network and strengthen connectivity between key markets, including the UAE and Europe, with its London Gatwick–Sharjah service now operating twice daily non-stop using the Airbus A321neo.
London Gatwick to Sharjah now flying non-stop double daily on A321neo.
Contact: Tracy Benton tbenton@airarabia.com
RIU Hotels & Resorts
The international RIU chain was founded in Mallorca by the Riu family in 1953 as a small holiday firm and is still owned by the family’s third generation.
The company specialises in 4 and 5 star holiday resorts and over 75% of its establishments offer its acclaimed All Inclusive by RIU service. With the inauguration of its first city hotel in 2010, RIU is expanding its range of products with its line of city hotels called Riu Plaza, designed and located for both business and leisure travel.
RIU Hotels & Resorts now has 97 hotels worldwide in 21 countries.
RIU’s Palace and Classic beach hotels offer something for everyone whether it be for families, couples, adults only or groups and can cater for all occasions.
You can register to join our highly acclaimed trade concession programme RIU Partner Club which offers many exclusive benefits and offers to our travel partners.
Register your RIU bookings to get points that can be redeemed for free stays for you and your points never expire! Access special rates, exclusive promotions, receive regular news and updates, access to trade tools in our Brand Center, and more.
We have a UK-based Trade Sales Team providing essential support.
Contact: Maria Battersby mbattersby@riu.com
