Good morning, readers.

Zohran Mamdani shared plans to boost New York tourism in a Skift exclusive. Marriott's CEO discussed M&A and the Middle East at the Skift Global Forum East in Abu Dhabi. And the chair of the UAE's gaming authority expects more resort-casinos to come.

Tourism

Exclusive

Image by Wikimedia Commons / Bingjiefu He

Zohran Mamdani Shares Tourism Plans in Exclusive Interview

The frontrunner to be NYC mayor spoke about Airbnb, his plans to boost NYC travel, and New York's role as a host city for the 2026 World Cup.

Mamdani said he supported Local Law 18, a near ban on Airbnb, but believes NYC needs more investment and construction to fix its housing crisis.
He would consider increasing New York City's tourism budget.
Mamdani said World Cup prep would be a major focus in the first six months of his administration and that he has considered appointing a "tourism czar."

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Event | December 3

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Hotels

Sean O'Neill

Senior Hospitality Editor

Image by Skift

Marriott CEO talks Middle East Growth, M&A, and Airport Lounges

Anthony Capuano outlined the company's strategic priorities during a video interview Thursday at the Skift Global Forum East in Abu Dhabi.

Marriott is positioning itself to capture outsized growth in the Middle East, which Capuano believes is "among the most dynamic growth markets."
As for M&A, Capuano said he looks for geographic gaps where organic growth may prove too slow or any platform that might "fill a gap" in "brand architecture."
He's interested in new ways to connect with travelers (even airport lounges): "Shame on us if folks think about their interaction with us only during that window when they walk through the front door of the hotel until they leave at the end of their stay."

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Hotels

Chalet Hotels Launches First Homegrown Brand

Chalet Hotels

"Athiva" taps into India's booming middle class and appetite for local travel.

The brand focuses on experience-led stays for modern Indian travelers
The company commits to 100% renewable energy and net zero by 2040

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Tourism

Bailey Schulz

Global Tourism Reporter

Image by Skift

More Resort-Casinos Likely Heading to the UAE

Jim Murren, chairman of the UAE's General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, said at Skift Global Forum East that travelers can expect more resort-casinos in the country.

"I would expect over time, over the next five to 10 years, there'll be two to four integrated resorts here in the UAE."
Wynn Resorts plans to open a $3.9 billion integrated resort in Ras Al Khaimah in early 2027.
Murren said new properties would be located outside Ras Al Khaimah, and expects the UAE's market to outgrow Singapore's.

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