#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
This summer, the Collection of Villages across Europe will offer Middle Eastern guests ‘seven star’ service in celebration of the Eid al-Fitr holiday. This period will encompass special events, exclusive offers, an unrivalled hospitality experience and – as always – leading luxury shopping destinations. With guests looking to enjoy a period of celebration and ......read more
International hospitality firm reveals plans to open Mövenpick Hotel Heraa Jeddah in 2019, its fourth property in the city and 14th kingdom wide. Dubai (United Arab Emirates), 8 July 2015: Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is consolidating its Saudi Arabia expansion plans by adding a fourth property in the kingdom’s thriving city of Jeddah. The 300-key Mövenpick Hotel ......read more
Dubai Cruise Market Crosses 500,000 Visitor Mark Due to Enhanced Services at Seaports, according to GDRFA DUBAI, 6 July 2015: Middle East governments should consider easing restrictions on travelling between states to boost the region’s tourism industry and support the fast-developing yachting and cruise market, says Mohammed Hussein Al Shaali, Chairman of the UAE-based yacht and ......read more
July 5, 2015 - Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, President of the Elaf Group of Companies, cited the significant role played by local travel and tourism organizations and associations in the move to further develop the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) travel and tourism industry. Mahfouz pointed out that the presence of these organizations can largely contribute to many of the planned programs and ......read more
Saudi Arabia, June 23, 2015: The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, along with VFS Global, the world’s largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions, formally launched their visa application service in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The new service at the Schengen Visa Application Centre is aimed at ......read more
Summer in St. Moritz St. Moritz is one of the most tradition-steeped holiday resorts around. Even its name is protected as a quality brand and all over the world it is equated with style, elegance and class. Beautifully located in the inspiring Engadin valley, St. Moritz celebrates the picture-book beauty of summer and winter in high style – with its inimitable cosmopolitan ......read more
June 14, 2015 - Elaf Group of Companies for Travel, Tourism and Hotels poised to receive the holy month of Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr by offering many special deals and activities that will add joy to guests from residents and foreign people coming to perform Ummrah during the holy month. In this regard, Ziad Bin Mahfouz, President of Elaf Group of Companies for Travel and Tourism, said: "As ......read more
4 June 2015: Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Tourism Malaysia today signed a global partnership agreement to boost inbound tourism to Malaysia by leveraging the airline’s global passenger network. Under the agreement, Etihad Airways and Tourism Malaysia will put into effect a range of joint marketing activities targeting Malaysia’s ......read more
Flynas, an award winning leading low cost airline of Saudi Arabia has set new standards to in-flight safety, by adding Virus Guard disinfectant wet wipes and sprays to its in-flight hygiene, to protect passengers from any known threats from dangerous viruses, including Ebola, Avian Influenza, and MERS. In a region where MERS cases are on the rapid rise, and with over 1,000 cases reported to ......read more
May, 2015: Glee Hospitality Solutions, a brand specialising in creating, developing and operating innovative restaurant concepts in the UAE and the GCC region today announced their proud participation in the 3rd annual The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia. The show was organized in Jeddah from 3rd to 5th May 2015. Glee Hospitality Solutions participated in The Hotel Show with a view to make its presence ......read more
UAE – Dubai, 5 May 2015: His Highness Faisal S.A. Al Faisal, Prince of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of Alternative Tech Commercial Ltd, visited Global Innovations' stand at the Arabian Travel Market Exhibition (ATM) and met with Mr. Kabir Ali Baig, CEO and Founder of Global Innovations. Mr. Baig leads the Global Innovations team in introducing its Enterprise Software Solution, ......read more
Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles, and Jet Airways, India’s premier international airline, today unveiled a codeshare agreement that offers travellers enhanced connections on their respective networks. The agreement heralds an era of closer cooperation between the two airlines which, in subsequent months, will include reciprocal frequent flyer programmes, ......read more
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (May 4, 2015) – Hyatt announced today at the annual Arabian Travel Market (ATM) exhibition in Dubai that it continues to spotlight the burgeoning Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC) market with new hotels across several of its brands -- from the bold and dramatic Grand Hyatt to the upscaleHyatt Place and Hyatt House brands. At least ninenew Hyatt-branded hotelsare ......read more
May 04, 2015 - The Elaf Group of Companies for Travel, Tourism and Hotels is participating at this year’s edition of the Arabian Travel Market, the Middle East region’s leading annual travel trade exhibition, which is being held from May 4 to May 7, 2015 in Dubai. During the show, Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, President of the Elaf Group, is expected to throw the spotlight on its hotels located ......read more
An action-packed event sends its winners packing. Geneva Tourism takes VIP women from the GCC to Geneva. Geneva Tourism, one of Switzerland’s official tourist boards, held an exclusive event called ‘Geneva, more than you can imagine’. The event was an occasion for the elite women from the GCC to connect with each other, while exploring the beauty of Geneva. Geneva has ......read more
Middle East’s largest travel trade event showcasing 2,700 exhibitors, 64 national pavilions, over 35 seminar and technology theatre sessions, and the return of the UNWTO Ministerial Forum set to welcome an anticipated 23,000 visitors Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2015, the region’s leading travel industry showcase, opens its doors tomorrow (Monday 4th May) for four days of ......read more
Dubai, UAE – 3 May 2015: Global Innovations, a Dubai-based Travel and Tourism Technology company is now an exclusive distributor of Vertical Booking products designed for all types of hotel and hotel chains. This agreement is a step that will further strengthen Global Innovations’ unprecedented growth in the GCC market following the successful launch of its own ERP software solution, ......read more
A conversion project, estimated at US$8 million, funded by existing cash and debt facilities. April 28 2015: Action Hotels, a leading owner, developer and asset manager of branded three- and four-star hotels in the Middle East and Australia, announced the addition of a three-star hotel in Saudi Arabia's capital city, Riyadh. The 130-bedroom property is in a prime location on Olaya ......read more
Abu Dhabi, October 20th & 21st, 2015 The Aviation Conference 2015 is taking place with a motive to highlight opportunities that are there with the aviation industry to contribute towards the environment with carbon-neutral growth. There will also be discussion on how the aviation industry can be shaped with promotion of bio fuels. AFCC will discuss the ways that may help turn the challenges ......read more
April 13, 2015 : Oman Ministry of Tourism is participating at the Riyadh Travel Fair 2015, that is taking place from April 14 to 17, 2015 at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, the KSA to strengthen the Sultanate’s status as one of the region’s top tourist destinations for Saudi Nationals. During their presence at the event, the Ministry is throwing the spotlight on the diverse appeal of ......read more
HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings will be present in the Saudi capital to take part in Riyadh Travel Fair from 14th to 17th April, 2015. Seventh year in running, the exhibition is considered to be one of the largest tourism events in Saudi Arabia attracting leading international and regional travel and tourism companies. According to industry reports Saudi Arabia is expected to be the ......read more
HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings is the hospitality sponsor for Saudi Aramco's 2015 Oilman's Golf Tournament which will be hosted by Rolling Hills Golf Club in Dhahran on 10th April. The tournament is being organised to promote and bolster the business relations between the various contracting entities who work with Saudi Aramco by bringing together top executives on the golf ......read more
Jeddah, April 5, 2015 - Elaf Group of Companies, a pioneer in travel, tourism and hotel services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has sponsored the STTIM 2015 (Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market) under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, Governor of Riyadh Province. Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, President of Elaf Group of Companies and a member of ......read more
Riyadh, 01 April 2015: The Embassy of Portugal in Riyadh has outsourced its visa application process to VFS Global. People who want to apply for Schengen visas to Portugal can now do this at the centre managed by VFS Global in Riyadh. While VFS Global will accept visa applications, the Embassy will continue to make the assessment and decisions regarding all visas. Soon this service will be ......read more
The world's largest oil and gas company is the target of a major sales push by the Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel which is sending a team to participate in the Aramco Travel Show taking place in Jeddah from April 7th. The event provides an excellent platform to showcase the facilities of the hotel to an audience that includes the 57,000 employees of the Saudi Arabian conglomerate, as well as ......read more
March 26, 2015 -Biman Bangladesh Airlines (Biman), the National flag carrier of Bangladesh, has announced that it will now be offering daily flights from Jeddah to Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet starting March 30, 2015. The additional flights (BG 036) will be on Sundays and Mondays, which will complement Biman’s existing five weekly flights (B777-300ER) from Jeddah. In line with this new ......read more
March 25, 2015: Anjum Hotel Makkah has revealed its participation as a strategic partner for the eighth edition of the Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market (STTIM), one of the leading tourism projects approved by the National Tourism Strategy and implemented by the Saudi Commission for tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), which will be held from March 29 to April 3, 2015 at the Riyadh ......read more
The Grand Millennium Dubai will be on show at the Arabian Travel Market exhibition in the emirate this May to reinforce its position as a city hotel catering superbly to leisure and business visitors, both from the GCC region and overseas. According to General Manager Peter Mansourian, while business was extremely dynamic and profitable in 2014, increased competition in the hotel sector in ......read more
Event to Run from 24-25 March and Convene Aviation Industry Leaders Abu Dhabi-UAE: 22 March, 2015 – The aviation industry’s top trendsetters and most influential players from around the globe are set to converge at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) to participate in the inaugural edition of Apex Middle East Conference 2015. Taking place from 24 to 25 March, the ......read more
March 10, 2015: Oman’s Ministry of Tourism held its first road show in 2015 in Saudi Arabia in line with its intensified campaign to promote the Sultanate’s main tourist attractions in the Kingdom. In collaboration with national airline Oman Air, the Ministry’s road show covered three major Saudi cities, namely the capital Al Riyadh; Al Khobar in the eastern province; and ......read more
01 March 2015 - Thair Abud made a stopover in Dubai en route to his walking pilgrimage to the Holy City of Makkah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Abud, who is performing his pilgrimage in tribute to a Nithir (Offering) he made to help his sister’s brave fight against cancer, arrived from a long trek from Bandarbas to Dubai and he will be going to Makkah after his brief stopover in the ......read more
February 26, 2015 - In preparation for the coming summer vacation season, tourism and travel companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) have already started to roll out their latest line of attractive travel packages to favorite tourism destinations like the United States (US), Europe, Africa and even across nearby GCC countries. Looking to address the demand for travel requests from its ......read more
2015 global aerospace and defense industry to grow around 3 percent Deloitte report signals continued strength of commercial aerospace from rising passenger travel demand and production of next generation fuel-efficient aircrafts 18 February, 2015 - Revenue and earnings growth in the commercial aerospace sector is expected to be a bright spot and driving force behind the global ......read more
February 4, 2015: Oman’s Ministry of Tourism will highlight the Sultanate’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage at the 5th Jeddah International Travel and Tourism Exhibition (JTTX) in Saudi Arabia as part of its efforts to attract more visitors from and strengthen its industry foothold in the Kingdom, one of the world’s fastest-growing tourism markets. The exhibition, one ......read more
January 21, 2015 - Egypt, Indonesia and Pakistan were ranked as the top countries that received the largest number of Umrah visas during Rabi-ul-Awal 1436 AH—showing a total of 1.63 million visas issued. Aside from the three, other countries included in the list were GCC and Arab countries like Algeria, Morocco, Jordan, Tunisia, Lebanon, Syria and Turkey among others. In line with this, ......read more
December 16, 2014: The Elaf Group of Companies recently capped off its successful marketing tour which aimed at recognizing the significant contributions made by its agents in Malaysia and Indonesia. The marketing tour, which started in November this year, was directed to increasing more awareness on the diverse tour package offerings of the Elaf Group of Companies. According to the ......read more
14th of December, 2014 - Bahrain International Airport (BIA) is set for a major overhaul during the next five years as it moves to upgrade its facilities and expand passenger capacity through an airport modernisation program. The work will involve a "comprehensive" redevelopment of Bahrain's International Airport to boost passenger and cargo capacity. The cost of the upgrade has ......read more
HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings was among one of the key sponsors of the prestigious Saudi Aramco Invitational Golf Tournament (SAIT). Hosted by Rolling Hills Golf Course in Dhahran, KSA, recently the tournament featured the region's finest golfers. It turned out to be a keenly contested competition with Othman Al-Mulla winning the top prize. HMH CEO Laurent A. Voivenel, said, ......read more
Jeddah - 21 November 2014 -Anjum Hotel Makkah, one of the renowned Anjum Hotels owned and developed by Abdul Latif Jameel Real Estate Investment Co. (ALJREIC), recently held an honorary ceremony for its strategic partners in hospitality and tourism industries in Egypt as part of its strong commitment to reinforce its existing cooperation with the local sectors. Held on November 19, 2014, the ......read more
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has provided a special charter flight to carry UAE fans to Riyadh to watch the national football team in action against Iraq tonight in the Gulf Cup of Nations. More than 200 fans boarded the A330 aircraft in Dubai this afternoon, bound for the Saudi capital, to watch the team play in their crucial match at the King Fahd ......read more
With the Understanding to Manage Four Other Properties in Madina Expanding its presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings has entered into a management agreement with Mobarak Hotels Group for operating Coral Al Madina Hotel. The announcement was made by Al Sheikh Mohamed Ebrahim Abdulrahim, Chairman of Mobarak Hotels Group and Laurent A. Voivenel, CEO ......read more
Novembe 12,2014: The Elaf Group of Companies has revealed its participation at the coming Egyptian and Algerian editions of the Arab International Forum for Exhibitions. The move, which follows after their successful participation in the forum’s recent edition in Morocco, demonstrates the group’s continued commitment in bolstering tourism exchange between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ......read more
Jeddah - 11 Nov 2014- Anjum Hotel Makkah, the largest hotel in the Middle East exhibited its services at the Hajj and Ummrah exhibition in Istanbul, Turkey. “Anjum” aims to offer its prestigious and sophisticated services to pilgrims coming to Makkah from Turkey as well as other countries in the world. The overall “Anjum” project after the next few years will provide ......read more
Nov 5, 2014 Elaf Group, led by President Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, will head a team of Hajj and Ummrah, Hotels and Travel and tourism executives at the Hilton Istanbul from November 7 to 8, 2014 and at the Grand Hyatt Amman from November 11 to 12, 2014. During the participation at the two very important events, the Elaf delegation will be focusing on increasing the level of awareness on the strategic ......read more
Jeddah, 4 November 2014 – The 2014 Hajj season was expected to achieve positive results across the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madina. The latest statistics from the Saudi Arabia’s hospitality industry reveal a successful season across all hotels where a record number of pilgrims were hosted by key industry players in both cities. During this year’s Hajj season, Anjum ......read more
October 27, 2014: The 2013 edition of the World Travel Market (WTM), the leading global event for the travel industry, successfully resulted in the generation of over SAR 13.23 billion worth of new businesses for the global travel industry. The positive response affirms the event’s role as a strategic platform for travel and tourism based-businesses, organizations and government agencies to ......read more
HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings has appointed Michel Mandrea as the New General Manager of Coral Al Khobar Hotel located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Making the announcement, HMH CEO Laurent A. Voivenel, said, "With over four decades of extensive all-round global experience in hospitality, Michel was the perfect candidate for this post. Having worked in the Middle East ......read more
Air Traffic Controllers and Pilots UAE hosted by GCAA Dubai, UAE: The Middle East Football Tournament for Air Traffic Controllers and Pilots (MECAP), organized by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) in cooperation with Al Ahli Football Club (Al Ahli FC), ended on Monday, 20 October. Ten teams from various airports and aviation companies in the Middle East took part in the competition ......read more
Targeted seasonal offering to capitalise on regional preferences as 68% of GCC leisure travellers opt for family-centric vacations; launch of new Millennium Executive Apartments concept timely as industry experts predict rise in intra-regional travel to visit family members Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East and Africa (MEA) has launched its 2014 winter campaign with a special ......read more
October 19, 2014 -- The Philippines’ largest airline, Cebu Pacific Air (PSE:CEB) now flies thrice weekly, non-stop flights between Riyadh and Manila, Philippines. CEB is the only low-cost carrier flying between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the Philippines. CEB’s flights from Riyadh to Manila depart at 12:45am (Riyadh time) and arrive in Manila at 3:40pm (Manila time) every ......read more
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