The Moscow City Tourism Committee set the tone with an exclusive gala dinner, uniting over 170 prominent industry leaders, including TIA, OTOAI, NIMA, MICE agencies, tour operators, government officials, and media representatives. This high-profile gathering underscored the growing synergy between India and Moscow, fostering meaningful collaborations in the tourism sector.

Moscow’s outreach included its participation in India’s leading tourism trade show, where it unveiled major tourism initiatives such as Moscow Estates, highlighting the grandeur of historic estates; the Moscow Tea Time Project, celebrating a tea heritage shared with India; and the Moscow Gastronomy Project, showcasing the city’s vibrant culinary landscape. Over the course of the event, Moscow representatives reinforced the city’s position as a prime leisure and MICE tourism destination.

Further strengthening these efforts, Moscow signed a landmark agreement with Thomas Cook India Group at the trade show, paving the way for a strategic collaboration. With this MoU, Thomas Cook India will introduce its clients to Moscow through an exclusive familiarization trip this spring, solidifying Moscow’s appeal among Indian travellers and positioning it as a key destination for both business and leisure tourism.

Moscow City Tourism Committee hosts prestigious Gala Dinner celebrating Partnerships with India

Moscow City Tourism Committee hosted a prestigious gala dinner, which brought together more than 170 key partners including prominent associations like TIA, OTOAI, NIMA, MICE agencies, TO and TA, government officials and media, along with delegates from Moscow, to celebrate the strengthening bond between India and the Russian capital

The event highlighted the growing collaboration in tourism and business sectors, underscoring Moscow’s commitment to enhancing ties with India’s outbound tourism market. This initiative aligns with Moscow’s strategic focus on the MICE sector, aiming to position the city as a premier destination for Indian business and leisure travellers.

The evening welcomed guests with the unique traditional “Moscow Tea Time” followed by captivating performances from the renowned ‘Rusy’ dance troupe, blending Russian folk songs with modern choreography to showcase Moscow’s rich cultural heritage. It was an unforgettable spread of elaborate cuisines and extraordinary lucky draw prizes generously offered by the Moscow travel and MICE industry. 

Distinguished delegates included Ivan Fetisov, Consul General of the Russian Federation in Mumbai; Dr Elena Remizova, Head of Rossotrudnichestvo in India and Director of the Russian House in New Delhi; and Evgeny Kozlov, First Deputy Head of the Office of the Mayor and the Government of Moscow, and Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, addressed the audience, emphasizing India’s significance as a top focus market and highlighting the growing popularity of the hassle-free e-visa among Indian travellers, noting a 1.4-fold increase in 2024 compared to 2023 with over 61,000 visits in the first nine months. Their speeches emphasized the strengthening of unparalleled business opportunities and new attractions for Indian travellers.

Speaking on the occasion Evgeny Kozlov, First Deputy Head of the Office of the Mayor and the Government of Moscow, and Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee said,” Moscow is a modern capital of business tourism, boasting world-class infrastructure, including cutting-edge congress and exhibition venues, over 22,000 dining establishments, and advanced technological services. The Moscow City Tourism Committee reaffirms its commitment to supporting the growth of India’s MICE industry and enhancing our bilateral relationship through continued engagements and partnerships.”

Adding to the occasion, Himanshu Patil, President of OTOAI, commented, “Moscow is a safe and culturally rich destination. With the simplified visa process, we expect a significant rise in travel interest from India to Moscow. We anticipate 2025 to be a successful year for India’s outbound travel market to this vibrant city, and at OTOAI, we look forward to fostering collaboration and supporting its growth.”

Moscow Announces Start of Cooperation with India’s Largest Tour Operator

Moscow also signed an agreement to begin cooperation with India’s largest tour operator, Thomas Cook India Group, at a trade show in Mumbai.

The capital of Russia signed a Memorandum of Understanding with India’s largest tour operator, Thomas Cook India Group, at the international tourism trade show OTM in Mumbai. The agreement marks the beginning of active cooperation with the Indian side in the field of tourism.

The document is primarily aimed at promoting Moscow as a key destination for leisure and business tourism in the Indian market, which the authorities of the Russian capital consider a priority market. Under the agreement, the parties plan to strengthen cooperation through the exchange of knowledge and best practices. They will also work on increasing awareness among the Indian tourism industry about Moscow’s tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) potential, and developing new travel products that are tailored to Indian travellers.

“The Indian tour operator expressed interest in bringing its clients to Moscow this spring as part of a familiarization trip. The MoU was signed at the trade show, after we had agreed to organize a special presentation of Moscow as a tourist destination for Thomas Cook India Group and its clients, particularly in the MICE segment,” said Evgeny Kozlov, First Deputy Head of the Office of the Mayor and the Government of Moscow, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee.

According to him, Thomas Cook India Group representatives expressed their interest in promoting Moscow in the Indian market at the Meet Global MICE Congress: BRICS Edition, which took place in Moscow in December 2024. “The Thomas Cook India Group team are big fans of Moscow, and are considered trendsetters in the Indian tourism industry,” Kozlov explained.

In addition, an agreement was signed between Moscow and Maharashtra Tourism within the framework of OTM, aimed at developing and promoting tourism between the Russian capital and Mumbai. “Maharashtra welcomes you to experience our tourism offerings and will be happy to send tourists from Maharashtra to experience the wonderful city of Moscow,” the document says.

India remains one of the priority markets for the Moscow City Tourism Committee. Tourist flow from this country has been steadily increasing in recent years, with India traditionally ranking among the top three non-CIS countries in terms of the number of tourists visiting Moscow. For example, in the first nine months of 2024, more than 61,000 Indian travellers visited the Russian capital, nearly matching the figures for the entire year of 2023.

The Moscow City Tourism Committee is a sectoral executive body of the Russian capital that implements city policy on the development and regulation of tourism and hospitality. With a strategic focus on branding Moscow as a premier tourist destination both domestically and globally, the Committee is dedicated to enhancing the city’s allure. In 2023,

Moscow attracted 2.3 million foreign tourists, predominantly from key markets like India, China, CIS countries, and the Middle East. To strengthen international ties, the Russian capital organizes business missions, showcases its tourism potential at industry exhibitions, and launches legislative initiatives, events and image projects aimed at foreign tourists, such as the Moscow MICE Ambassadors program in India.

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His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh Prince Edward arrived in India yesterday on 2 February for a three-day visit, focusing on championing young people and promoting the benefits of non-formal education on a global scale.

During his visit, The Duke will travel to Mumbai and Delhi to support The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, known in India as The International Award for Young People (IAYP). This non-formal education and learning framework empowers young people to discover their purpose, place, and passion in the world. Since its inception in India in 1962, the Award has supported over 150,000 students across 325 schools and educational institutions.

In addition to engagements with members of the government, His Royal Highness will participate in a series of events highlighting the UK-India partnership. His itinerary includes discussions with Indian education and business leaders, philanthropists, and advocates for youth development, as well as events celebrating the shared cultural and sporting ties between the two nations.

Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, remarked:

“I am delighted to welcome His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh to India. The visit is an important reminder of the vibrant and enduring links between our countries, including through a 1.7 million-strong Indian diaspora in the UK.

“The UK-India partnership is helping drive solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues. By investing in our youth today and ensuring they have all the opportunities to succeed, we can continue to build on the shared vision of a better tomorrow.”

Kapil Bhalla, National Director of The International Award for Young People, India, added:

“We are deeply honoured to welcome His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh to India as part of his continued commitment to inspiring young people worldwide. His visit reaffirms the transformative impact of The International Award for Young People in empowering the youth of India to realise their full potential.”

“His Royal Highness’ presence is a testament to the enduring legacy of this programme and its ability to connect communities across the globe.”

Following his engagements in India, The Duke of Edinburgh will travel onwards to Nepal, where he will be joined by The Duchess of Edinburgh for the next leg of the visit.

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Cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Sikar, Nagaur, Ajmer, and the Shekhawati region have emerged as popular destinations for directors and producers. The state’s allure, which has captivated filmmakers since Bollywood’s golden era, continues to draw both Indian and international productions.

Iconic locations such as Chittorgarh Fort, where the song Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai from Guide was shot, and Amer’s Sheesh Mahal, home to legendary scenes from Mughal-e-Azam, remain favorites among filmmakers and tourists. Beyond its majestic palaces and forts, Rajasthan’s vibrant culture, folk traditions, and warm hospitality make it an ideal setting for film projects.

Ravi Jain, Tourism Secretary, highlighted Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari’s efforts to establish Rajasthan as a global center for cinema. She noted that the state’s policies are tailored to support filmmakers, making the shooting process smooth and efficient. Diya Kumari views the upcoming Silver Jubilee Celebration of IIFA, set for March 8-9 in Jaipur, as a historic moment for Rajasthan. She believes the event will not only celebrate Indian cinema but also boost the state’s cultural and tourism profile worldwide.

Diya Kumari, Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan said, “The IIFA event in Jaipur will shine a spotlight on Rajasthan’s tourism destinations. It will also provide a platform for local artists, craftsmen, and cultural groups to showcase their work. Additionally, it will create job opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and film production, contributing to the state’s economic growth.”

The state’s Film Tourism Policy, combined with strong support from local authorities and the state’s cultural richness, has made it a prime choice for filmmakers. The recent surge in film projects and the upcoming IIFA event underscore Rajasthan’s growing reputation as a hub for both Indian and international cinema.

Supportive Policies and Infrastructure for Filmmakers

According to Tourism Secretary Ravi Jain, Rajasthan’s film tourism policy offers incentives, tax rebates, and logistical assistance, creating a welcoming environment for filmmakers. This has led to a notable increase in film projects, with 61 productions completed in the past year.

Deputy Director Dalip Singh Rathore added that Rajasthan not only provides stunning locations but also ensures efficient administrative support, making film shoots hassle-free.

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Commenting on the performance, Ashish Jakhanwala, Chairman & Managing Director, SAMHI Hotels Ltd. said, “We are pleased with the results for Q3 & 9M FY25. During the quarter we maintained healthy revenue growth. EBITDA growth was strong given successful ACIC integration and strong operating leverage.

Our core markets remain resilient. For Q3 & 9M FY25, occupancy stood at 72% and 74% respectively, reflecting strong demand for our assets.

I am also pleased to announce the reopening of Caspia Pro in Greater Noida as Holiday Inn Express with 133 rooms in December 2024. Our growth projects are on track with Holiday Inn Express in Kolkata and new rooms in Bengaluru under pre-opening stage. 

We are also making good progress on two latest acquisitions. The concept development for our proposed new block of 220 rooms in Whitefield, Bengaluru, under “Westin” brand by Marriott and for conversion of an existing building into a “W” brand hotel in Hitec city, Hyderabad, are at advanced stages of finalization.

Once we complete the on-going initiatives, we would have almost doubled our Upper Upscale & Upscale inventory, which will have a substantial impact on our business.”

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Sir Joan hotel in Ibiza, recently acquired by AX Partners, will undergo a refurbishment in line with NH Collection’s premium standards before relaunching under the new brand this spring.

Overlooking the port of Ibiza and the old town, the hotel is a meeting point for national and international visitors to the vibrant island of Ibiza. Its privileged location, now combined with the management of Minor Hotels under the NH Collection brand, will position it as a key asset in the premium segment of the Balearic Islands.

Second opening in 2025 for the NH Collection brand

The launch of this hotel in April will be the brand’s second of the year, following the recently announced NH Collection Alagna Mirtillo Rosso in Italy, which will open its doors in March. This four-star hotel, located in the heart of the Pennine Alps in the village of Alagna Valsesia at the foot of Monte Rosa, is perfect for skiing enthusiasts. Together, these properties will help strengthen the NH Collection brand portfolio, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year with nearly 100 hotels worldwide.

Gonzalo Aguilar, Chief Executive Officer of Minor Hotels Europe & Americas said, The introduction of NH Collection into the Balearic Islands tourism market represents a key strategic flag for the brand. It will allow us to position ourselves with an asset that will strengthen both our presence in Spain as a whole and our offering in a key location for our main outbound markets in the rest of Europe. It is also a significant milestone that coincides with the tenth anniversary of our NH Collection brand, which has established itself as a benchmark of quality around the brand.”

Aleix Recasens, founding partner of AX Partners said, ” The Sir Joan is already a benchmark in design and location in the city of Ibiza and we acquired it with the aim of boosting its success with a benchmark brand and a stronger contract. We have chosen NH Collection because of its solvency and capacity to manage premium hotels in iconic destinations maximising the efficiency of its hotels, as well as its expertise in successfully managing leisure and restaurant offerings.

This project will not only strengthen Ibiza’s hotel offering but will also mark a milestone as the first NH Collection in the Balearic Islands. We are committed to adding value to this asset and to consolidating our position as one of the main players in the hotel investment market in Spain.”

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Surrounded by scenic trails, dense forests, vibrant wildlife, hidden treasures, and the melodious calls of birds, it offers an idyllic escape into the nature. 

The Club Mahindra Patkote spans across 4.7 acres and features 72 well-appointed rooms, providing a range of thoughtfully curated experiences for guests.

Conveniently accessible via Pantnagar and Bareilly Airports and Kathgodam and Ramnagar Railway Stations, the resort serves as an easily reachable retreat for travelers seeking tranquillity. The ideal time to visit is between November and February when the region’s serene beauty is at its peak. 

Commenting on the launch, Manoj Bhat, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd, said, “Uttarakhand has always been a cherished destination for nature lovers. With our strong presence in the state through resorts in Mussoorie, Almora, and Kanatal, the launch of Club Mahindra Patkote further reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional retreats in some of India’s most pristine and picturesque locations. This addition reflects our vision of delivering unparalleled vacation ownership experiences that seamlessly combine comfort, culture, and nature.”

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This growth includes a combination of its own properties under the Goldfinch brand and strategic international partnerships. With its flagship Goldfinch brand, celebrated dining establishments such as Sana-di-ge, Kni-hau, Banjara, and The Kabab Studio, MRG Group is poised to enter new domestic markets while exploring global collaborations.

“We are focused on more than just building hotels – we aim to create immersive destinations that combine world-class service with authentic experiences,” said Dr. K Prakash Shetty, Founder and Chairman of MRG Group. “With an average occupancy rate of 85% across our operational properties, we have demonstrated that our unique fusion of Indian hospitality and global standards resonates deeply with guests. This expansion plan reinforces our commitment to shaping India’s future as a global tourism hub.”

MRG Group has identified high-growth cities such as Hyderabad, Chennai, Gurugram (Delhi NCR), Ahmedabad, and Pune as prime locations for its future developments. These cities were selected for their dynamic economic growth, increasing demand for premium hospitality services, and flourishing tourism and real estate sectors.

Gaurav Shetty, Managing Director of MRG Group, emphasized the role of strategic partnerships in their growth. “Our collaborations with esteemed global brands such as Marriott International, alongside the expansion of our own Goldfinch brand, will offer guests a unique blend of luxury and accessibility. We are committed to catering to every type of traveller, from leisure seekers to business professionals, while staying ahead of industry trends,” he explained.

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The surge in domestic travel has been remarkable, with overall domestic bookings growing by more than 30% year-over-year. This growth stems from more people looking for long weekend getaways, planning road trips and experiential travel, and more recently curating trips around religious/cultural and entertainment events, like the Maha Kumbh Mela or a concert. 

Leading the charge are vibrant destinations that capture India’s diverse appeal. Goa maintains its position as the most-booked destination, renowned for its year-round leisure and cultural experiences. Following Goa, urban centers including Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Pune and Hyderabad have shown impressive growth, driven by work travel, events & conferences and most importantly given the proximity of several tourist destinations.

On the international front, Indian travelers are increasingly exploring vibrant global destinations. Popular choices include Dubai, London, Kuala Lumpur, Milan, Bangkok, and Paris — each offering a unique blend of culture, history, and entertainment. Whether it’s the shopping and modern attractions of Dubai, the rich history of London, or the romantic charm of Paris, these cities continue to capture the imagination of Indian explorers, further reflecting the growing global travel aspirations of Indian travelers.

The platform witnessed growth throughout 2024, with group travel (2+ travellers) in India emerging as a key trend – bookings for larger groups increased by more than 30% as friends, colleagues, and interest-based communities prioritized shared experiences. Gen Z travelers from India doubled their bookings in the first three quarters of 2024 compared to 2023, while millennial bookings surged by almost 30%. Traveler preferences evolved significantly, with increased demand for Airbnb categories like stays near national parks and in iconic cities, tropical stays, and homes with amazing pools. 

“Our platform continues to serve as a bridge between cultures, connecting travelers with authentic local travel experiences. By empowering hosts across India to share their homes and traditions, we’re fostering meaningful cultural exchanges while supporting local economies. We look forward to hosting more travelers and continuing to connect people through unique, local experiences on Airbnb.” said Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Airbnb‘s Country Head for India & Southeast Asia.

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In a conversion project, the haveli has been authentically restored to preserve its historical charm.

Commenting on the signing, Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, Indian Hotels Company Limited, said, “The growing interest in immersive travel experiences has fueled demand for heritage stays and cultural tourism. Mandawa, with its rich architectural legacy, serves as a convenient extension for travellers exploring the Delhi-Jaipur-Agra circuit. This signing underscores IHCL’s commitment to meeting diverse traveller preferences and tapping into emerging micro-markets. We are pleased to collaborate with Shri Vijender Singh Shekhawat and Shri Pushpender Singh Shekhawat on this project.”

Originally built in the 1870s, the haveli offers a remarkable glimpse into Mandawa’s storied past. Its mural paintings, dating back to the 1890s, feature intricate depictions of religious icons, floral and geometrical motifs, and scenes from life of the era. The restored 17-key IHCL SeleQtions Mandawa will be extended to 35 keys. 

Shri Vijender Singh Shekhawat and Shri Pushpender Singh Shekhawat said, “We are excited to collaborate with Indian Hotels Company Limited, a brand that brings their expertise in the leisure sector and a deep commitment to preserving and restoring heritage properties.” 

Nestled in Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region, Mandawa is renowned for its exquisitely painted havelis, which feature the world’s largest collection of European-inspired frescoes, attracting tourists from around the world. 

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Located just 20 kilometres from Bahrain’s mainland, this beachfront resort is designed as a haven for eco-conscious travellers blending luxury and sustainability. Hawar’s pristine environment has been virtually untouched, resulting in a vibrant ecosystem that will appeal to nature lovers and adventure seekers.  

Guests begin their journey at the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion, the resort’s dedicated arrival hub, where they are greeted with warm hospitality and a seamless check-in experience. From there, a short 25-minute boat ride takes them directly to the resort. 

The resort has 104 stylish accommodations, including guest rooms, two tented suites, beach villas and overwater villas – many with private pools and direct access to the beach. The resort caters to a wide range of guest preferences, from families and couples to solo adventurers.  

Commenting on the opening, Andre Erasmus, General Manager of Hawar Resort by Mantis said, “We are thrilled to open the doors of Hawar Resort by Mantis and invite guests to experience the unmatched beauty of Hawar Island. This resort deeply respects the environment and Bahrain’s cultural heritage, offering a luxurious and sustainable island retreat.” 

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