#SecureLandCommunications #CritComms #F1Jeddah Jeddah, KSA - 20 March 2023 – Airbus rolled out its mission-critical solutions in the 2023 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as the motorsport spectacle’s official secure communication technology provider. Deployed in the vital points of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit were Airbus TMR880i, THR880i, TH1N, and TH9 Tetra radios and RCS9500 Radio Dispatch Console. Providing secure collaboration and connectivity between organisers and security teams, the technologies were pivotal to safeguarding the people and the venue whilst guaranteeing seamless on-site race activities and operations. Selim Bouri, Vice-president for Airbus Secure Land Communications in Africa, Asia and the Middle East said: “Clear, concise and secure communication is an important ......read more
08 March 2023: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for January 2023 global air cargo markets showing that air cargo demand declined as economic headwinds persist. • Global demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs*), fell 14.9% compared to January 2022 (-16.2% for international operations). • Capacity (measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers, ACTK) was up 3.9% compared to January 2022. This was the first year-on-year growth in capacity since October 2022. International cargo capacity increased 1.4% compared to January 2022. The uptick in ACTKs reflects the strong recovery of belly capacity in passenger airline markets offsetting a decline international capacity offered by dedicated freighters. • Several factors in the operating environment ......read more
• The Dubai-based carrier adds two new destinations to its network with the launch of flights to Al Qaisumah and Neom and resumes flights to Jizan and Najran Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 03 March 2023: flydubai, the Dubai-based airline, has announced today the launch of four destinations in Saudi Arabia. This includes the start of flights to Neom from 16 March, Najran from 18 March, Al Qaisumah from 21 March and Jizan from 26 April. Earlier this year, the airline also resumed its operations to AlUla with a twice-weekly service from 12 January. Hamad Obaidalla, Chief Commercial Officer at flydubai, said: “flydubai remains committed to opening up underserved markets and so we are pleased to offer our customers more options for travel with the launch of these four destinations. As Saudi Arabia continues on its ......read more
Launches New Premium Experience Campaign featuring the actor DOHA, Qatar – Qatar Airways has launched a new brand campaign in collaboration with world-renowned Indian actor, Deepika Padukone. The campaign launch is the culmination of the airline's endeavour to redefine Qatar Airways Premium experience, particularly through showcasing the world-class Qsuite along with the unparalleled surroundings of The Orchard, which are core to Hamad International Airport’s expansion. The timeless acoustic track ‘Ain’t Nobody’ accompanies the campaign that connects Padukone’s journey with Qatar Airways to a new level of luxury and elegance. She encapsulates the premium experience available to customers of Qatar Airways, transiting through the best airport in the world, Hamad International Airport. Qatar ......read more
Riyadh, KSA - 28 Feb 2023: Riyadh Airports Company (RAC), which operates and manages King Khalid International Airport (KKIA), has announced the successful trial of Smart Path, a facial recognition technology, at International Terminal 2 in partnership with the air transport technology company, SITA. The technology, which was tested at check-in counters and boarding gates recognizes the passengers’ digital identity when stepping up to the camera. The facial image is directly linked to the passengers’ physical passport and travel documents at check-in. This allows them to be identified at security or boarding by simply taking a picture. This trial is part of RAC’s effort towards digitally transforming King Khalid International Airport into a smart airport in the future in compliance with the standards of ......read more
26, February 2023: Creating a new milestone in its network expansion strategy, Oman’s value-for-money airline SalamAir has announced direct flights to two new destinations Mashhad in Iran and Almaty in Kazakhstan. Mashhad is the third destination in Iran for the airline, with flights to Shiraz and Tehran already in its network, and Almaty is the airline's first entry into Kazakhstan. Weekly flights from Muscat to Mashhad and Almaty are scheduled for starting from February 21 and 1st July 2023 respectively. These two routes serve a high demand for medical, business, and leisure tourism. The new flights will also offer convenient connections to the SalamAir network. Speaking of the two new routes, Captain Mohamed Ahmed, CEO of SalamAir, said, “Iran has been one of the key focus markets for us, and we are pleased ......read more
The national airline celebrates its first flight to Medina, expanding affordable, hassle-free travel for tourists and residents in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia 16, February 2023, Abu Dhabi, UAE: Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the ultra-low-fare national airline of the UAE, has commenced operations on the new route of Medina, a centre of Islamic culture. The new destinations further strengthen regional connectivity with high quality point-to-point travel on WIZZ’s convenient flight schedule. Tickets are on sale on wizzair.com and the airline’s mobile app with fares starting as low as AED 219 *. Medina, a historical city of religious significance, boasts breath-taking views and architecture. Known as ‘The Enlightened City’, Medina is home to Al Masjid an Nabawi, the Prophet Muhammad’s (Peace Be Upon Him) ......read more
• ADU is the first academic institution in the world to take this initiative • Trained GPT-3 will revolutionize the way ADU-related inquiries and services are delivered Abu Dhabi, UAE, 16 February 2023: In a continues bid to integrate breakthrough solutions and tap into the potential of the groundbreaking GPT-3 technology, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) to become the first educational institution in the world to train GPT-3 on its data and services. The integration of the technology seeks to better support students, faculty and staff through providing enhanced and efficient services while setting a new standard for education technology. By leveraging the power of GPT-3, ADU will support data-driven decision-making, enhance learning outcomes and promote the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) ......read more
7 February 2023: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for global air freight markets showing that 2022 full-year demand for air cargo took a significant step back from 2021 levels but was close to 2019 performance. • Global full-year demand in 2022, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs*), was down 8.0% compared to 2021 (-8.2% for international operations). Compared to 2019, it was down 1.6% (both global and international). • Capacity in 2022, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTKs), was 3.0% above 2021 (+4.5% for international operations). Compared to 2019 (pre-COVID) levels, capacity declined by 8.2% (-9.0% for international operations). • December saw a softening in performance: global demand was 15.3% below 2021 levels (-15.8% for international ......read more
7 February 2023: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the recovery in air travel continued in December 2022 and for the full year. • Total traffic in 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose 64.4% compared to 2021. Globally, full year 2022 traffic was at 68.5% of pre-pandemic (2019) levels. December 2022 total traffic rose 39.7% compared to December 2021 and reached 76.9% of the December 2019 level. • International traffic in 2022 climbed 152.7% versus 2021 and reached 62.2% of 2019 levels. December 2022 international traffic climbed 80.2% over December 2021, reaching 75.1% of the level in December 2019. • Domestic traffic for 2022 rose 10.9% compared to the prior year. 2022 domestic traffic was at 79.6% of the full year 2019 level. December 2022 ......read more
The new routes from Budapest, Bucharest and Rome will provide affordable point-to-point travel opportunities and enhance global connectivity Jeddah, 12 January 2023: On 9, 10 and 11 of January 2023, Wizz Air, Europe’s fastest growing and globally most environmentally sustainable* airline, officially inaugurated three new connections between Bucharest and Jeddah, Budapest and Jeddah and Rome and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. The new routes will be served twice a week. Tickets can be purchased on Wizz Air's website and via the WIZZ app from as low as 29.99 EUR*. Wizz Air kicked off 2023 further strengthening its presence in Saudi Arabia by launching five new routes from Hungary, Romania and Italy to Riyadh and Jeddah. The new routes to Jeddah from Bucharest, Budapest and Rome will boost the growing Saudi Arabian tourism ......read more
10, January 2023: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the air travel recovery continued through November 2022. • Total traffic in November 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose 41.3% compared to November 2021. Globally, traffic is now at 75.3% of November 2019 levels. • International traffic rose 85.2% versus November 2021. The Asia-Pacific continued to report the strongest year-over-year results with all regions showing improvement compared to the prior year. November 2022 international RPKs reached 73.7% of November 2019 levels. • Domestic traffic for November 2022 was up 3.4% compared to November 2021 with travel restrictions in China continuing to dampen the global result. Total November 2022 domestic traffic was at 77.7% of ......read more
The Western Hajj Terminal at King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah is no ordinary airport terminal. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and a winner of the 1983 Aga Khan Award, it became a port of entry and junction point for hundreds of thousands of Muslim pilgrims from around the world on their way to Awwal Bait – the First House of Allah, the Holy Kaaba in Mecca, a building at the centre of Islam’s most famous mosque. When the terminal opened, it had the world’s largest cable-stayed, fabric-roofed construction; as it was made on an unprecedented scale, the tensile structure made use of newly developed fabric as a permanent structural element instead of the cable-supported in two directions technique, making it a first-of-sorts in airport design. Today, the Islamic Arts Biennale re-imagines this ......read more
04 January 2023: “Several countries are introducing COVID-19 testing and other measures for travellers from China, even though the virus is already circulating widely within their borders. It is extremely disappointing to see this knee-jerk reinstatement of measures that have proven ineffective over the last three years. Research undertaken around the arrival of the Omicron variant concluded that putting barriers in the way of travel made no difference to the peak spread of infections. At most, restrictions delayed that peak by a few days. If a new variant emerges in any part of the world, the same situation would be expected. That’s why governments should listen to the advice of experts, including the WHO, that advise against travel restrictions. We have the tools to manage COVID-19 without ......read more
Saudi Arabia has a unique opportunity to create the most advanced water parks in the world. - Jeremy Gray, VP of Business Development at WhiteWater Riyadh: Not wanting to be left out in the era of digitization when intelligent automation rules the roost, the water parks sector has been exploring new technologies to improve its operations. Organizations all over the world are looking to create touchless experiences to streamline operations to reduce costs and pain points, which makes countries like Saudi Arabia double the size of its economy to $1.6 trillion, adding an additional $293 billion by 2030, according to a new study by Automation Anywhere. WhiteWater, the world’s largest supplier of water parks and services, has expanded beyond the world of attractions with a software arm called Vantage, which was ......read more
The national airline enhances connectivity from the UAE and meets commitment for more convenient, high quality and affordable travel for the region 15 December 2022, Abu Dhabi, UAE: Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the ultra-low-fare national airline of the UAE, is launching an exciting new route from Abu Dhabi to Medina in Saudi Arabia. Launching in February 2023, the new route will provide affordable, hassle-free travel for tourists and residents in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia with daily flights providing unique travel opportunities on a convenient WIZZ flight schedule. Tickets are already on sale on wizzair.com and the airline’s mobile app, with fares starting from AED 179 *. Medina, one of Islam’s two holiest cities, is a key destination for millions of pilgrims travelling for Hajj or Umrah, and boasts breath-taking views ......read more
• Kingdom’s growth strategy wins ringing endorsement from WTTC Chiefs on Day 1 of 22nd Annual Summit • Tourism from nature generates $600 bn, WTTC CEO Julia Simpson tells delegates • Saudi Ministry of Tourism signed MoUs with Oman, Indonesia and Barbados Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 29 November 2022: The leaders of the World Tourism and Travel Council (WTTC) have described Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become one of the top 5 destinations in the world in the next decade as “unparalleled” in the history of tourism and travel. Opening the 22nd edition of the Summit, Arnold Donald, Chair, WTTC & Vice Chair of the Board, Carnival Corporation, welcomed the nearly 3000 participants to what will be the biggest ever meeting of global tourism and travel industry ......read more
• HRH Crown Prince Announces King Salman International Airport Masterplan • King Salman International Airport will boost Riyadh’s position as a global logistics hub and stimulate transport, trade and tourism • The airport is expected to accommodate up to 185 million passengers and process 3.5 million tons of cargo by 2050 • It will cover an area of approximately 57 km2, allowing for six parallel runways and airport support facilities, residential and recreational facilities, and retail outlets • With sustainability at its core, King Salman International Airport will be powered by renewable energy As the 22nd WTTC Global Summit began in Riyadh today, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Prime Minister and Chairman of the Council of ......read more
- A 1450 piece drone show with especially composed music and a live orchestra wowed guests at a stunning opening event to Khaybar, North West Saudi Arabia. AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – 25 November 2022: The ancient oasis town of Khaybar, known for ancient burial structures and striking geology is offering a sneak peek, limited season of day-trip and overnight experiences for visitors. The event forms part of the inaugural Ancient Kingdoms Festival, which comes under the banner of AlUla Moments – the annual calendar of events for the ancient desert city of the AlUla region. The unique sound and light show took place at the AlRawan look out point which has epic views of the Khaybar old town and oasis. The drone show was conceived by HQWS, the same company ......read more
• Children in Saudi Arabia spend an average of 2 hours and 42 minutes on mobile devices — the third highest duration of the 10 countries surveyed. • WhiteWater aims to help accomplish the Vision 2030 goal of establishing more than 600 entertainment attractions in the Kingdom by 2030. • Waterparks offer family members the opportunity to engage with children in a more constructive way. Riyadh: Playing and outdoor fun have undergone a huge transformation over the past 20 years, as new technology-based games and fun activities have turned kids homeward, where they spend most of their time in isolation, glued to their personal devices such as mobile phones, tearing the family bond apart and making it a matter of concern for both parents and social scientists. According to ......read more
CzechTourism brings delegation of 14 Czech tourism partners to discuss business and drive tourists from Saudi Arabia to the Czech Republic Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Czech Tourist Authority – CzechTourism in cooperation with the Embassy of the Czech Republic and in association with Flynas successfully concluded its exclusive Saudi Arabia Roadshow from the 31st October 2022 – November 2nd 2022 covering Riyadh, Jeddah and Al-Khobar cities respectively. The aim of the roadshow was to highlight the multifaceted attractions of the country with a focus on its spa and wellness products, visa seminar by the Embassy of the Czech Republic and airline connectivity by Flynas, the airline partner for the roadshow. The presentations were followed by B2B meetings and networking dinner with travel agents and lucky prize ......read more
25, October 2022: Recognized for revolutionizing the travel experience for religious travelers and facilitating Umrah online booking services in the Middle East, Zamzam.com, is excited to announce its first-ever award from the prestigious “World Travel Awards” for ‘Middle East’s Leading Umrah Online Travel Agency’. This year, the Middle East Gala Ceremony of the World Travel Awards (WTA), was held in the capital of Jordan, Amman on October 23rd, marking the first ceremony in Jordan among the most influential figures and decision-makers in the region’s travel industry. Zamzam.com is the first-ever online travel agency of its kind to win a WTA award and defy the pandemic’s impact and the ongoing global challenges to make it in this highly competitive category. “It is with great ......read more
‘Travel for a Better Future’ revealed as event theme Travel & Tourism business leaders and government officials to take to the stage in Riyadh October 24, 2022: The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) unveils its first round of confirmed speakers for its upcoming Global Summit to be hosted by Saudi Arabia, which includes leaders from some of the world’s largest Travel & Tourism businesses, Saudi officials, and tourism ministers from around the world. Taking place at the magnificent King Abdul Aziz International Conference Centre in Riyadh from 28 November to 1 December, the global tourism body's highly anticipated 22nd Global Summit is set to be the most influential Travel & Tourism of the year. Under the theme “Travel for a Better Future” the event ......read more
Cathay Pacific welcomes the Hong Kong SAR Government’s latest measures to facilitate travel to Hong Kong, especially the decision to remove the hotel quarantine arrangement for passengers arriving in Hong Kong effective 26 September 2022. These adjustments will help boost sentiment for travel, thereby facilitating the gradual resumption of travel activities and strengthening of network connectivity to, from and through the Hong Kong aviation hub. We intend to add more than 200 pairs of passenger flights in October to both regional and long-haul destinations. In view of Japan’s relaxation of travel restrictions for inbound visitors, Cathay Pacific will resume daily flights to Tokyo (Haneda) from 1 November and four-times-weekly flights to Sapporo from 1 December. We will also increase flight frequencies to Tokyo ......read more
Dubai, UAE, 25 August 2022: Zamzam.com, the online platform facilitating Umrah booking services in the region, enters a strategic partnership with Merit Incentives to deliver on its brand promise ‘Umrah Simplified’. As part of this collaboration, Merit Incentives’ clients in the banking sector and its marketplace will equip their customers to redeem their loyalty points for Zamzam gift cards, providing all customers with the opportunity to gift their loved ones an Umrah experience. Registered users can redeem their loyalty points for a Zamzam gift card to plan their travel to Umrah and Hajj effortlessly and conveniently. In addition, customers can redeem their loyalty points on Zamzam.com to plan their pilgrimage to Mecca or visit Madina. Commenting on the partnership, CEO of Zamzam.com, Omar Seraj Akbar, said: ......read more
7 September 2022 (Geneva) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced passenger data for July 2022 showing that the recovery in air travel continues to be strong. Note: We have returned to year-on-year traffic comparisons, instead of comparisons with the 2019 period, unless otherwise noted. Owing to the low traffic base in 2021, some markets will show very high year-on-year growth rates, even if the size of these markets is still significantly smaller than they were in 2019. • Total traffic in July 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) was up 58.8% compared to July 2021. Globally, traffic is now at 74.6% of pre-crisis levels. • Domestic traffic for July 2022 was up 4.1% compared to the year-ago period and is now driving the recovery. Total July 2022 ......read more
Saudi Airport Exhibition to be held in Riyadh from November 7 Global airport industry leaders heading to the Kingdom Future Airport Development Summit to host international experts on the sidelines Debate on passenger-centric ‘airports of tomorrow’ Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, August 30, 2022: The global aviation industry will be heading to Riyadh in the first week of November to explore the untapped growth potential of the airport industry in the Kingdom, which is in the midst of massive expansion in line with the Saudi 2030 Vision, a unique transformative economic and social reform blueprint unveiled in April 2016. As the largest country on the Arabian Peninsula pushes massively to expand and upgrade airport facilities to serve 330 million air travelers by 2030, the year when 60 per cent ......read more
• Grand prize winner Sarah Raouf from Family Tours, Egypt, walks away with brand new BMW X2 • Over 1,500 winners and 6,000 rewards distributed during 120 days August 19, 2022: TBO Holidays, one-stop shop booking platform for all travel agents across MEA, which is owned by Tek Travels DMCC– announced the grand prize winner of BMW x2 car following the final raffle draw of its ‘Book n Win Bonanza’ mega promotional campaign for travel agents in the region. Launched in April earlier this year, the ‘Book n Win Bonanza’ campaign gave away over 1229 prizes across 387 bookers during the first 60 days of the promotion, with a total of over 1,500 winners and 6,000 rewards distributed during the 120 days of the campaign period, with lucky agent Sarah Raouf from Family Tours, ......read more
• New research finds that airport lounges remain extremely popular in the region • Loyalty rewards are considered the top payment card travel benefit • There is a correlation between travel benefits and increased use of payment cards 17, AUGUST 2022: The travel ecosystem is already making a comeback after a disruptive event that has impacted every industry. Travellers are again taking to the skies for business, leisure, and even bleisure. UNWTO World Tourism Barometer shows a 182% year-on-year rise in international tourism for the first quarter of 2022, with destinations worldwide welcoming an estimated 117 million international arrivals compared to 41 million in the first quarter of 2021. Collinson, a global leader in traveller experiences, recently performed a ......read more
Sustainability In The Air Lab’ saw us asking people who experienced our operations first hand, staff and guests, for their opinions and ideas. Airline a finalist in five categories in the SkyTeam Sustainable Flight ChallengeSAUDIA, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, was announced as the winner of the customer engagement category in the SkyTeam Sustainable Flight Challenge.E This follows SAUDIA running the world’s first in-flight sustainability lab on a Jeddah to Madrid flight to crowd-source ideas from guests. The sustainability lab was staged on May 12th on SV 227 from Jeddah to Madrid onboard a SAUDIA 787-9 Dreamliner, which was also the world’s longest carbon net-positive flight. The lab was run in partnership with SimpliFlying, global leaders in helping airlines build brand ......read more
June 24, 2022 - Riyadh, KSA: Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Northern Ring Road recently welcomed tour operators from East Europe as part of the Saudi Tourism Authority’s first familiarization trip to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In an aim to establish further business ventures and attract international travelers, the familiarization trip allowed participants from ten tourism agencies from across Eastern Europe. Participants experienced Riyadh’s rich culture and hospitality firsthand while discovering the city's diverse landscape and unique offerings. The two-day itinerary included an in-depth personal hotel tour and sight inspection of the facilities and amenities by Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Northern Ring Road’s General Manager, Mahmood Omar, and Director of Sales, Bashar Naji, followed by a trip ......read more
Enhanced global connectivity brings our incredible Low Fares to Saudi Arabia in support of KSA’s Vision 2030, supporting rapidly expanding tourism and aviation sectors within the Kingdom 22 June 2022, Budapest, Hungary: Wizz Air, Europe’s fastest growing and most sustainable airline, is launching exciting new routes from Dammam, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to Rome, Vienna and Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi route will be operated by Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, Wizz Air’s joint venture airline with ADQ. Launching in September 2022, the new destinations are the first step towards a growing presence in KSA which will provide for the first time truly affordable, hassle-free, point to point travel for tourists and residents in the Kingdom, Europe and the UAE, strengthening global connectivity. The new routes by Wizz Air introduce a ......read more
• Travellers to the UK from The Kingdoms of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia can now apply for the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) • VFS Global now offers EVW assistance for applicants in six countries in the Middle East Nationals of The Kingdoms of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia can now apply for an Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) when travelling to the UK. Travellers can apply in advance from the comfort of their home, anywhere between three months and 48 hours prior to their intended date of travel, for the purposes of tourism, business, study or medical treatment. Having extended to the two new locations, VFS Global now offers EVW assistance in six countries in the GCC - Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. With an EVW, travellers visiting the UK for up to six months need ......read more
20 June 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Pegasus Airlines Vice-Chairperson of the Board (Managing Director) Mehmet Tevfik Nane has assumed his duties as Chair of the IATA Board of Governors (BoG) for a one-year term, effective from the conclusion of the 78th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Doha, Qatar on 21 June. Nane is the 80th chair of the IATA BoG. He has served on the BoG since 2019. He succeeds JetBlue Airways CEO Robin Hayes, who will continue to serve on the BoG. “I’m honored to take on this position at a time when the industry is emerging from our worst downturn. In addition to maintaining momentum toward re-opening the globe to travel and commerce, we have a very full agenda over the next 12 months. This includes achieving agreement at the ICAO Assembly on a Long ......read more
20 June 2022: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced an upgrade to its outlook for the airline industry’s 2022 financial performance as the pace of recovery from the COVID-19 crisis quickens. Forecast highlights include: • Industry losses are expected to reduce to -$9.7 billion (improved from the October 2021 forecast for an $11.6 billion loss) for a net loss margin of -1.2%. That is a huge improvement from losses of $137.7 billion (-36.0% net margin) in 2020 and $42.1 billion (-8.3% net margin) in 2021. • Industry-wide profitability in 2023 appears within reach with North America already expected to deliver an $8.8 billion profit in 2022. • Efficiency gains and improving yields are helping airlines to reduce losses even with rising labor and fuel costs (the latter ......read more
The International Air Transport Association (IATA), announced that leaders of the global aviation industry are gathering in Doha, Qatar, for the 78th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS), with Qatar Airways as the host airline. The event (19-21 June) attracts the industry’s most senior leaders from among IATA’s 290 member airlines, as well as leading government officials, strategic partners, equipment suppliers, and media. “In a few days, Doha will become the aviation capital of the world. The last time we met in Doha, in 2014, we were celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first airline flight. This year’s AGM is another momentous occasion: Airlines are simultaneously recovering from the COVID-19 crisis, setting the path to achieving net zero carbon emissions by ......read more
The agreement will see the online portal provide IT development services to the charitable association Riyadh, KSA, 19 April 2022: Zamzam.com, the online portal facilitating Umrah booking services in the region, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AlBirr Charitable Society in Makkah Al Mukarramah. The MoU aims to help develop the Information Technology Unit at the association and was signed by the CEO of Zamzam.com, Mr. Omar Siraj Akbar, and Mr. Hisham Abderrahman Shilly, Vice Chairman of the Board of the AlBirr Charitable Society in Makkah Al Mukarramah. As part of its commitment to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to provide support to the society, and within the framework of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Zamzam.com joins hands with the first charitable association in ......read more
Zamzam.com launches B2C options to its portal A seamless booking experience with exclusive packages and services available directly to travelers Riyadh, KSA, 12 April 2022: Planning an Umrah trip could quickly turn into a daunting task given the many aspects that are involved. From booking flights and accommodations to ground transfers, the entire process could prove to be more than one person can handle. With this in mind, Zamzam.com, an online platform for Umrah travels, in joint venture with TBO.COM, one of the leading global travel distributions platforms in the world, is proud to announce that Zamzam.com is now the first OTA platform that offers B2C visa services directly to consumers. Curated and carefully designed packages that meet the needs of pilgrims coming from all over the country the wider GCC ......read more
Airline Shares Universal Greeting from SAUDIA to the World Celebrates EID With Special Flight Offers Jeddah, SAUDI ARABIA – Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA), the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has released a special Eid Al Fitr campaign, marking the conclusion of the Holy Month of Ramadan. Eid is a period of celebration with family and friends to mark the end of Ramadan in which Muslims around the world fast for a month. The newly released campaign from SAUDIA conveys a heartwarming greeting to all guests. A video with the meaning and message of Eid featuring international award-winning music artist, Akon, can be viewed on both the airline’s and Akon’s social media channels. Akon was selected to represent the brand due to his international appeal, which resonates with SAUDIA’s vision of ......read more
This summer SAUDIA airlines resumes their international operations and direct flights to this magnificent island destination Dubai, UAE - April 22, 2022: SAUDIA Airlines resumes direct flights to Mauritius 3 times a week. With the resumption of flights Saudis are now able to travel again into this magnificent destination, and enjoy what this paradise island has to offer. From the start Saudis visiting Mauritius will instantly feel welcome, they are treated to a warm attitude by locals, the Mauritian hospitality, rooting from an extraordinary mix of cultures, religion and ethnicities. All the communities live in harmony by nurturing their own culture and heritage, and sharing them with visiting guests. Mauritius has plenty to offer to the Saudi travelers be it families, couples, adventure travelers, or Saudis who ......read more
October 13, 2018: A Saudi delegation from the customs of King Abdul Azziz International Airport in Jeddah highly applauded the high advanced level Dubai Customs has reached. During their visit to the Passenger Operations Department in Dubai International Airport, Terminal 3, the Saudi visitors expressed admiration and willingness to benefit from the knowledge and experience Dubai ......read more
September 9, 2018- Elaf Group, a SEDCO Holding Group company and a leading provider of travel, tourism and hospitality services in the region through its diverse portfolio of world-class hotels, has played a key role in supporting the tourism sector in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) since its establishment. The Group has implemented ambitious strategies and innovative plans, making it one of the ......read more
MEBAA Conference Jeddah Highlights Industry Opportunities Saudi Arabia, 05 September, 2018: The MEBAA Conference Jeddah took place yesterday at the Jeddah Hilton, and brought together the business aviation industry from the region. Speaking at the event, Captain Bander Khaldi, Managing Director, National Aviation Academy, said that Saudi Arabia will require 8800 pilots and 11700 ......read more
Reliable secure communication infrastructure has contributed to a fearless stay of more than two million pilgrims at the holy sites in Makkah, Saudi Arabia Dubai, UAE – 2 September 2018: Together with the telecom companies STC Specialized and House of Invention International (HOI) in Saudi Arabia, Airbus has supplied secure communication infrastructure to the ......read more
5 August 2018, Abu Dhabi, UAE: Abu Dhabi Airports is hosting delegates candidates from the Royal Saudi Air Force at the Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies (GCAS) for a series of selected aviation training sessions. The trainee will benefit from knowledge-sharing exercises covering areas related to safety and security, forming part of the close cooperation between the aviation sectors ......read more
July 30, 2018 - The Elaf Jeddah - Red Sea Mall, a part of the Elaf Group, a SEDCO Holding Group company and a leading provider of travel, tourism and hospitality services in the region, revealed that its Al Danah Ballroom is one of the highly preferred venue for events and weddings--epitomizing the hotel's new standards of excellence and luxury. The Ballroom stands out as one of the most ......read more
Under the patronage and in attendance of His Highness Prince Dr. Turki Bin Saud, President of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology The initiative identifies and incubates top entrepreneurial talent and ventures from the aerospace and aviation sector Dubai, UAE, July 09, 2018: The winners of the ‘Entaliq in KSA’ initiative have been announced today at a ......read more
Under the patronage and in attendance of His Highness Prince Dr.Turki Bin Saud, President of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology The initiative identifies and incubates top entrepreneurial talents and ventures from the aerospace sector in Saudi Arabia. Riyadh, KSA – 04 July, 2018: Airbus has announced that the closing ceremony of ‘Entaliq in KSA’ ......read more
Saudi Arabia, June 25, 2018: Millennium Hotels and Resorts have furthered their expansion into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with the opening of Millennium Madinah Airport. Designed to provide pilgrims and visitors a luxurious accommodation in the city, the 5-star property features 227 magnificent rooms and is located at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport. Situated 30 ......read more
Initial Saudi Group wins Riyadh Airport FM Contract Saudi Arabia, June 5, 2018: This month, leading KSA Facilities Management heavyweight, Initial Saudi Group announced that they have won the FM Cleaning contract for Riyadh Airport, despite stiff competition from at least five other FM companies. Initial Saudi Group have been appointed to take on the responsibility of all cleaning and ......read more
Saudi Arabia, May 23, 2018: Dammam Airports Company (DACO) has awarded a 10-year contract to Serco for the provision of fire and rescue services at Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport (KFIA), the first Saudi airport to leverage an international service provider’s expertise in firefighting systems. DACO CEO, Mr.Turki Al Jawini, said, “We are delighted to ......read more
Airline selects SITA for cloud support for its 200 offices worldwide across 60 countries JEDDAH – 30 April 2018 – Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA), the national airline of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has selected SITA to support its strategic expansion plans by introducing modern, world-class IT infrastructure across 200 of the airline’s offices located in 100 cities and ......read more
The Sultanate of Oman’s Ministry of Tourism announced that its pavilion featuring landmark cultural heritage and natural tourism spots are attracting huge interests from thousands of visitors at the Riyadh Travel Fair 2018, taking place at Al Faisalah Tower Hotel until April 13, 2018. The Ministry noted the positive response from visitors reflect the country’s strategic edge as an ......read more
- Saudi Arabia’s largest domestic and outbound tourism promotion event opens with 300 exhibitors from 55 countries – (Riyadh, 11 April 2018) – Riyadh Travel Fair (RTF) 2018, Saudi Arabia’s leading travel industry showcase, opened its doors for the tenth consecutive year in Riyadh yesterday evening, April 10, 2018, with more than 300 exhibitors from 55 countries. The ......read more
The Sultanate of Oman’s Ministry of Tourism announced that it will participate at the Riyadh Travel Fair 2018 along with leading players in regional and international travel and tourism to showcase the Sultanate’s latest and most competitive tourism projects set as major attractions for Saudi and regional tourists. The travel trade show, which will take place from April 10 to 13, ......read more
March 29, 2018 – Elaf Group, a SEDCO Holding Group company and a leading provider of travel, tourism, and hospitality services, has inaugurated a qualified female workers supported call center as part of a community communication efforts to provide exceptional hospitalities travel and Sharia-compliant hospitality services as well, to all of its customers, empowering expectation access to, ......read more
March 28, 2018 - The Elaf Group, a SEDCO Holding Group company and a leading provider of travel, tourism and hospitality services, recently opened a new all-female staffed call center in Jeddah as part of the group's continuing efforts to provide exceptional Shari'a compliant travel, tourism and hospitality services to all its customers. The new facility has been inaugurated to allow ......read more
Results for 2017 Adjusted EBIT increased around 70 percent to some EUR 3 billion Adjusted EBIT margin raised 2.9 percentage points to 8.4 percent Earnings growth primarily driven by the Group’s airlines (including cargo) Revenues up 12.4 percent to EUR 35.6 billion Unit costs further reduced 60 percent higher dividend proposed at EUR 0.80 per share Outlook for ......read more
Saudi Arabia’s largest domestic and outbound tourism promotion event expected to receive over 30,000 visitors Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 11 March 2018: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s largest travel trade event showcasing more than 270 exhibitors, national pavilions and seminars set to welcome an anticipated 30,000 visitors. Riyadh Travel Fair (RTF) 2018, Saudi ......read more
Aerospace experts shared their insights with aspiring entrepreneurs in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Riyadh, KSA, 1 March, 2018: Airbus announced the successful conclusion of its insightful aviation workshop in Riyadh, part of its ‘Entaliq in KSA’ programme that aims to present aspiring Saudi entrepreneurs with a brief yet rich perspective on innovations in the global aerospace ......read more
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Feb. 18, 2018 – Global technology leader Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) will be showcasing its advanced portfolio of defense, energy and technology capabilities at The Armed Forces Exhibition for Diversity of Requirements & Capabilities (AFED), taking place in Riyadh from 25 February-3 March. A security partner to the Kingdom for over fifty years, ......read more
Board recommends dividend of 35 fils per share Kuwait - Feb 8, 2017: Jazeera Airways KSC (Jazeera) today announced its 2017 full-year financial results. The company reported an operating result of KD7.7 million, and a net profit of KD8.2 million. FY2017 Financial Highlights: Operating revenue: KD56.6 million, up 7.3% from FY2016 Operating ......read more
Qabala is the 2nd destination in Azerbaijan for Air Arabiaa Three flights per week serving Qabala from 27 June 2018 Sharjah, UAE; 08 January 2018: Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC), announced today that it will launch a new route in Azerbaijan, flying to the popular touristic city of Qabala from 27 June 2018. Air Arabia ......read more
Dubai, UAE, January 3, 2018: As instructed by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates’ Chairman and Chief Executive today announced that Emirates airline will operate a special A380 flight to Kuwait for UAE supporters to attend the finals of the Arabian Gulf Cup. The UAE team ......read more
Dubai, December, 29 2017 - Dubai has been named the World's Greatest New Year's Eve Destination for 2018 by The World Travel Guild. The string of city-wide celebrations occuring across the Emirate this year to ring in 2018 will be unmatched by any other city in the world, says the organization. The festivities will be led by a light show at the Burj Khalifa, the worlds tallest ......read more
Indians in Saudi Arabia and travellers to India can now avail of seamless passport application/renewal and visa application services at new centre A new India Passport and Visa Application Centre was launched in Jubail in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) by the Embassy of India in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah to provide residents of Jubail and Indian ......read more
Abu Dhabi’s cruise tourism sector, led by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi , is continuing its series of international promotions and conventions ahead of the start of the 2017/18 cruise season with a four-city regional travel trade roadshow in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait from 8 – 12 October 2017. Showcasing the Emirate’s distinct cruise ......read more
Health and safety tips for those travelling to Saudi Arabia to perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage Dubai, UAE, August 16, 2017: International SOS and Control Risks has issued the latest guidance to Muslims travelling from all over the world to attend Hajj in Saudi Arabia this month. Close to 2 million foreign and domestic pilgrims are expected to perform their religious duties in ......read more
In recognition of the adoption of the Saudisation in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Riyadh, 26 July 2017: In recognition of the importance of Saudisation, and seeking to provide opportunities for Saudi citizens, and according to Saudi Vision 2030 to reduce unemployment rates among the Saudi youth, Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski has employed 25 Saudis in the hospitality, food, beverage and ......read more
Special offer on all flight and hotel bookings can be redeemed by registered users, who choose to pay with Visa Checkout on tajawal.sa until August 18th, 2017 Dubai, UAE - 20 July 2017: After successful implementation across its tajawal.ae domain in January 2017, tajawal, the Dubai-based online travel-booking site, has further collaborated with Visa to provide Visa Checkout to its ......read more
In the context of his belief concerning the importance of his roles in social responsibility Riyadh, June 19, 2017: As part of Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski initiatives during the holy month of Ramadan in supporting charitable activities in the community, the hotel has made an integrated volunteering campaign, including signing number of agreements, building partnerships and distributing ......read more
May 31, 2017- The Elaf Group of Companies, a SEDCO Holding Group company and a leading provider of travel, tourism and hospitality services, has announced the coming opening of its latest five-star hotel in Jeddah. The latest addition to Elaf Group’s growing portfolio of hotels is part of its recent implementation of a strategic expansion initiative aimed at further reinforcing its leading ......read more
May 24, 2017 – Cebu Pacific Air (PSE: CEB) will suspend its service to and from the following destinations: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Kuwait Doha, Qatar CEB will fly the last of its four-times-a-week service from Manila to Kuwait on June 13, 2017, and its Kuwait-Manila flight on June 14, 2017. The thrice-weekly Manila-Doha-Manila route will have its last flight on July 1, 2017; ......read more
Turkish Vibes in the Heart of Saudi Arabia Riyadh - 18 May 2017: In its eagerness to make everything new and distinctive, and its quest for continuous improvement and development, Burj Rafal Kempinski has recently added chef Mesut Ozkan to its list of employees - the master of chefs to luxurious hotels and restaurants, and the one who launched a new menu at Tuğra restaurant, adding ......read more
The strong network platform in Middle East Dubai, UAE, May 9, 2017: Following their meeting on the margin of the Arab Travel Market Event (ATM) in Dubai to enhance their mutual relationship as partners, Al Tayyar Travel Group, one of the largest travel and tourism companies in the region, and Amadeus, one of the leading providers of advanced technology solutions for global travel ......read more
FROM TAILORED SERVICES TO EXPANDED VILLAGES, THE COLLECTION OF VILLAGES BY CHIC OUTLET SHOPPING® OFFER GUESTS SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY EVERY DAY™ New partnerships, tailored services for Middle Eastern guests and an expanding Bicester Village are unveiled at this year’s ATM Dubai, April 22, 2017: Chic Outlet Shopping® extends a warm summer welcome ......read more
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 11 April 2017 The Kingdom of Bahrain promotes its new tourism identity under the slogan of ‘Ours. Yours’ The Kingdom of Bahrain launched its new tourism identity under the slogan of ‘Ours. Yours’ in a step to further develop the tourism sector as a main contributor to the national economy. The new brand embraces the country’s ......read more
Hotel’s signature outlet by Michelin-starred Chef Vineet Bhatia spices up glittering awards ceremony after voters declare it’s the region’s top Indian dining experience Al Khobar (Saudi Arabia), 11 April 2017 - Mövenpick Hotel Al Khobar’s signature restaurant, Maharaja by Vineet, has spiced up the 2017 Food & Travel Arabia GCC Awards where it was honoured ......read more
RTF 2017 is the largest domestic and outbound tourism promotion event in KSA to date Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – April 8, 2017: Riyadh Travel Fair (RTF) 2017, Saudi Arabia’s leading travel industry showcase, opens its doors for the ninth consecutive year, at Prince Sultan Grand Hall, Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh which will run from 7th – 10th April 2017. The fair was ......read more
MOHAMMAD A. AL-AMRI, GENERAL MANAGER OF THE SAUDI COMMISSION FOR TOURISM & NATIONAL HERITAGE (SCTH) IN MAKKAH PROVINCE, JEDDAH OPENS THE HOTEL SHOW SAUDI ARABIA AND STONE & SURFACE SAUDI ARABIA 2017 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, 5th April 2017: The fifth edition of The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia and the inaugural Stone & Surface Saudi Arabia opened Tuesday (4th April 2017) Under the Patronage ......read more
Saudi Travel & Tourism Investment Market have witnessed the signing of a media agreement between the Tourist Routes and Eye of Riyadh Riyadh, March 30, 2017 In a remarkable strategic step, Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage represented by the Tourism Routes Program, signed a media cooperation agreement with Eye of Riyadh by the aim of marketing the program, raising the ......read more
The region’s fastest growing tourism destination registered 71 per cent growth in Saudi visitor numbers year-to-date Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, 29 March 2017: Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), which develops the emirate’s tourism infrastructure and initiates its domestic and overseas promotions, has expanded its presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ......read more
Exhibitors to showcase their latest offers and packages to cater to young travellers Riyadh, 28 March 2017: Why not explore the world instead of lying on the couch? This year, Riyadh Travel Fair the largest travel and tourism exhibition & congress in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will provide platform to trade visitors and the general public on youth travel options. Tour ......read more
Saudi travel agencies receive unique view on latest innovations and technologies in the travel sector Riyadh, Jeddah and Khobar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia- March 21, 2017 – Sabre Corporation (NASDAQ: SABR) the leading technology provider to the travel and tourism industry, launched its 2017 Technology Day series in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, offering a unique view into the top ......read more
March 23, 2017 - Elaf Group, a SEDCO Holding Group company and a leading provider of travel, tourism and hospitality services, announced its participation to the Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market (STTIM) 2017 which will be held from March 26 to 30, 2017 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC). The Kingdom’s leading travel and tourism provider looks to ......read more
13th March 2017: Riyadh is Saudi Arabia’s busiest city for hotel construction with almost 50 hotel projects underway, a new report has revealed. The 2017 Saudi Arabia Hotel Construction Overview report by TOPHOTELPROJECTS prepared exclusively for The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia, found that the Kingdom’s capital city is preparing to add 48 new properties to its already vast hotel ......read more
Riyadh, 19 March 2017 Riyadh Travel Fair (RTF) 2017, the largest travel and tourism exhibition & congress in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, will for the first time, this year, shine a spotlight on medical tourism. Medical service providers, hotels, destinations, spas and wellness resorts from around the world will present their latest products, services and special offerings at the four day ......read more
Saudi Arabia’s largest domestic and outbound tourism promotion event expected to receive over 30,000 visitors Riyadh, 21 February 2017: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s largest travel trade event showcasing more than 250 exhibitors, national pavilions and seminars set to welcome an anticipated 30,000 visitors. Riyadh Travel Fair (RTF) 2017, Saudi Arabia’s leading ......read more
February 19, 2017 - The Elaf Group, a SEDCO Holding Group company and a leading provider of travel, tourism and hospitality services, has launched attractive Umrah packages for all its properties in Holy City of Makkah to enable a growing number of religious travelers to take advantage of the pleasant weather to perform the pilgrimage. In addition, it has also announced affordable travel packages ......read more
New leisure facilities forecast to fuel domestic tourism at over 7.5% per year until 2020 61,224 hotel rooms currently in the pipeline to meet projected demand from domestic and religious tourism Arabian Travel Market to showcase the best of the Kingdom’s tourist attractions Dubai, UAE, February 15, 2017: Saudi Arabia’s travel and tourism sector is expected to ......read more
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