Here are four tech highlights you need to know that are shaping the travel landscape of the Middle East.

1.Ras Al Khaimah to offer electric air taxis

The future of urban air mobility is set to transform the way people travel and commute in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. The newly signed MoU between Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority and Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority with Skyports Infrastructure will see a network of electric air taxi services operating as early as 2027.

A pivotal move towards sustainable tourism and transportation in the Emirate and aligning with RAKTA’s 2030 Strategic Plan, the network of ‘vertiports’ to be developed by Skyports will integrate with the existing transport networks to connect key destinations across Ras Al Khaimah such as Al Marjan Island and Jebel Jais.

The project aims to significantly reduce travel time and support Ras Al Khaimah’s goal of responsibly driving 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030.

2. Expedia launches Gen-AI travel solution in the UAE

Operating in more than 30 markets, Expedia Group has now entered the UAE, the company’s first new market in eight years, with a cutting-edge web platform and forthcoming Gen-AI app that promises seamless travel planning and booking.

Harnessing Gen-AI technology to enhance the travel experience in the UAE’s thriving $25 billion tourism industry, Expedia’s expansion caters to the region’s growing travel needs, offering access to flights and accommodations worldwide. Emphasising its commitment to the UAE market, Expedia already integrates innovative features like ChatGPT for travel inspiration; and the launch of the Gen-AI app will see additional features like price tracking and other tools to overcome booking challenges.

UAE residents will also enjoy exclusive savings and benefits through Expedia’s membership program. Accompanying this launch is an emotive “Made to Travel” brand campaign highlighting the transformative power of travel.

3. SHR Group spotlights hotel management technology

Leading global hotel technology provider, SHR highlighted its intelligent and automated technology platform Allora.ai at ATM this year. Empowering resorts and hotels with advanced management software tools, Allora’s suite integrates CRS, RMS, IBE, CRM and digital services offering real-time pricing, inventory and intuitive guest profile management all in one place.

“Allora.ai bridges the gap between our applications and AI capabilities,” said Senior Director of Business Development, Alex Barder. “This allows hotel revenue, distribution and marketing teams to be far more efficient when performing daily tasks such as content translations, channel optimisation and content recommendations while enabling them to automate workflows”

Also spotlighted at ATM is Allora Concierge, a guest-facing AI assistant that enhances guest engagement, optimises reservations and achieves over 84% accuracy in predicting cancellation risks, ensuring hotels maximise high-value guest reservations.

4. Wego launches ‘WegoBeds’

Wego.com has launched its specialised B2B accommodation platform WegoBeds to meet the rising demand for hotels and lodging in the Middle East. Serving as a vital link between Middle Eastern hotels and Wego’s extensive global partner network; and as a primary source of hotel supply for Wego’s online travel agency and corporate travel ventures, WegoBeds is backed by a seasoned team of hotel contractors facilitating seamless onboarding and the implementation of global distribution strategies.

In line with the burgeoning hospitality sector, WegoBeds delivers a comprehensive suite of solutions for B2B accommodation bookings, integrating competitive pricing and real-time availability. Employing cutting-edge technology, the platform provides both static and dynamic rates through channel managers and a dedicated extranet.