Good morning, readers.

The U.S. travel industry has a Washington problem. Uber is taking a big step forward in its premium push. And the Iran war is splitting the Gulf hotel market in two.

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Tourism

Image by Skift

The Travel Industry's Obsolete Advocacy

The travel industry's advocacy groups were built to lobby Congress, but the executive branch has all the power. The mismatch was undeniable this past week.

The travel industry has a power deficit: it is the world's largest industry with the smallest institutional voice.
The same trade group that demanded Congress act on TSA pay was praising the White House four days later.
You cannot lobby your way out of a presidential proclamation.

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Ground Transport

Dennis Schaal

Executive Editor

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Image by Blacklane

Uber to Buy Blacklane

Uber is buying Berlin-based global chauffeur platform Blacklane, a move that signals the ride-hailing giant's push to accelerate premium services.

Blacklane's clientele skews heavily toward business travelers — the high-value segment Uber has been chasing.
Investors valued Blacklane at $547 million in October 2024.
It's unclear whether Uber plans on retaining the Blacklane brand.

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Hotels

Ascott Bets on Brand Flexibility for Growth

The Ascott Limited

The company's multi-typology strategy brings flexibility to modern hospitality

One brand spans hotels, resorts, and residences to meet shifting demand
6M loyalty members gain more "earn and burn" options across trip types

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Hotels

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Image by Radisson/Hanna Sörensson

Saudi Hotels Show Strength While UAE Demand Sinks

While UAE hotels are struggling with widespread cancellations and low bookings after tourist demand collapsed last month, Saudi cities are faring better, according to Radisson.

"Saudi Arabia is a more resilient market," a Radisson executive told us.
Radisson is holding its pricing: "deep discounts don't generate more business — they just destroy value," he said.
Don't expect a fast rebound: "Q4 is a sensible place to start hoping for demand recovery."

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