10 December 2024 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released new estimates for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production showing that: In 2024, SAF production volumes reached 1 million tonnes (1.3 billion liters), double the 0.5 million tonnes (600 million liters) produced in 2023. SAF accounted for 0.3% of global jet fuel production and 11% of global renewable fuel*. This is significantly below previous estimates that projected SAF production in 2024 at 1.5 million tonnes (1.9 billion liters), as key SAF production facilities in the US have pushed back their production ramp up to the first half of 2025. In 2025, SAF production is expected to reach 2.1 million tonnes (2.7 billion liters) or 0.7% of total jet fuel production and 13% of global renewable fuel capacity*. "SAF volumes ......read more

The collaboration brings the iconic Hard Rock Hotels and Reverb Hotels brands to the Kingdom, aligning with Saudi's Vision 2030's focus on expanding the tourism industry and economic diversification Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (10th December 2024): As one of the world's leading hotel management companies, Palladium Hotel Group is set to charter new territories following its agreement with Hard Rock International to operate hotels under Hard Rock Hotels and Reverb Hotels in Saudi Arabia. Palladium Hotel Group will be infusing the region's hospitality market with over 50 years of expertise, following a record-breaking 2023 with an annual revenue of 1.069 billion euros. The group is actively seeking investors and real estate partners with properties that align with the Hard Rock International brand's bold, lifestyle-focused ......read more

Experience Jeddah's perfect winter weather and indulge in a luxurious getaway with exclusive offers for family and friends at The Hotel Galleria Jeddah, Curio Collection by Hilton. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (9 December 2024): This winter, take advantage of Jeddah's serene weather and celebrate the festive season with an unforgettable stay at The Hotel Galleria Jeddah, Curio Collection by Hilton. Whether you're planning a getaway with family or friends, the opulent five-star property is offering exclusive discounts to make your holiday truly memorable. Renowned for its seamless blend of Italian elegance and Saudi heritage, The Hotel Galleria Jeddah, Curio Collection by Hilton is a masterpiece inspired by Milan's iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Nestled on Tahlia Street, this architectural marvel offers guests a ......read more

9 December 2024 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that $1.7 billion in airline funds are blocked from repatriation by governments as of the end of October 2024. This is a small improvement compared to the $1.8 billion reported at the end of April. "Over the last six months, we have seen significant reductions in blocked funds in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Algeria and Ethiopia. At the same time, amounts are rising in the XAF XOF zones and Mozambique. Bolivia has also emerged as a problem, where repatriating sales revenues is becoming increasingly difficult and unsustainable for airlines. This unfortunate game of 'whack-a-mole' is unacceptable.  Governments must remove all barriers for airlines to repatriate their revenues from ticket sales and other activities in accordance ......read more

December 5, 2024, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: voco Hotels, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ premium portfolio, has announced the opening of voco® Jeddah Gate. Situated in one of the most sought-after lifestyle destinations, voco® Jeddah Gate is just 25 minutes drive from King Abdulaziz International Airport and close to the main railroad connecting Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah to Jeddah, making it an ideal base for business, leisure and religious tourists. Featuring 706 contemporary guestrooms, blending modern comfort with premium amenities and the warmth of the voco™ brand, voco Jeddah Gate occupies a central location in the Fayhaa District just minutes from the iconic Jeddah Corniche. Designed for discerning travellers, each room offers sleek interiors, ergonomic furnishings, and cosy bedding, complemented ......read more

04 December 2024 -The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for October 2024 global air cargo markets showing continuing strong annual growth in demand. Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs*), rose by 9.8% compared to October 2023 levels (10.3% for international operations) for a 15th consecutive month of growth. Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTKs), increased by 5.9% compared to October 2023 (7.2% for international operations). This was largely driven by an 8.5% increase in international belly capacity. Dedicated freighter capacity increased by 5.6%, the seventh consecutive month of growth with volumes nearing 2021 peak levels. “Air cargo markets continued their strong performance in October, with demand rising 9.8% year-on-year and capacity up ......read more

Set to open its doors on December 16, Zuma Riyadh promises a contemporary Japanese dining experience like no other, blending bold flavours, elegant design, and vibrant energy November 2024, Riyadh | Ahead of its highly anticipated launch in the Kingdom, Zuma, the globally renowned contemporary Japanese izakaya, has officially opened reservations for its upcoming opening in Riyadh. Set to welcome guests starting December 16 for both lunch and dinner services, Zuma Riyadh promises a truly elevated dining experience, blending its signature Japanese cuisine with the vibrant cultural energy of Saudi Arabia’s capital. Boasting an extensive menu of beloved favourites, including fresh sushi, delicate sashimi and nigiri, Zuma brings its globally celebrated culinary mastery to the region. The menu will also feature a Riyadh-exclusive ......read more

22 November 2024 - The International Air Transport Association’s Wings of Change Europe (WOCE) event concluded with a call for industry and governments to work together with practical actions to make Europe more competitive and sustainable. Highlights included: In his keynote, Filip Cornelis, Director for Aviation, DG MOVE, European Commission, explained that the new Commission would likely offer continuity of policy direction, but with a greater focus on improving competitiveness, through a focus on the recommendations of the Draghi report. He was clear that there would be no change of course on aviation sustainability, arguing that aviation needed to be a ‘bright green, not hopelessly brown” sector. A CEO panel discussion with Andrea Bernassi (ITA Airways), Luis Gallego (IAG), Christian Scherer (Airbus) and ......read more

05 November 2023 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Airport Services Association (ASA) are strengthening their collaboration to improve ground handling safety and efficiency. Together, the organizations will work to reinforce standardization, promote safety data sharing, and explore new approaches to enhance sector resilience. “Global standards make aviation safer, and ASA and its members have been pivotal in helping develop the IATA ground handling standards we rely on today. By sharing data, we will be able to support this vital activity with data-driven insights and decisions. Maximizing the impact of data relies on broad contributions. We encourage ground handler participation to strengthen our collective insights,” said Nick Careen, Senior Vice-President Operations, Safety ......read more

In line with the Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Gaming and Esports Strategy NES will assist in designing state-of-the-art Esports gaming labs at BISR’s Al Hamra campus Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 5 November 2024 – The British International School Riyadh (BISR) has partnered with NES, gaming-focused digital media company and subsidiary of Nesma Holding Company, to offer students access to the rapidly evolving world of Esports. The partnership will provide BISR’s students with hands-on experience across key industry areas such as game design, coaching, broadcasting, competition management, and data analysis. The new partnership comes in line with the Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and create new job opportunities in various sectors, ......read more

The new service will expand the airline's presence in the Saudi market starting November 16th Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, November 03, 2024: Fly Jinnah, Pakistan's low-cost carrier, announces the launch of its new non-stop flights between Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The new route will commence on November 16, with flights operating twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Starting December 7, the frequency will increase to three weekly flights with the addition of a Thursday service. Flight Schedule between Lahore and Dammam, effective 16 November ......read more

Providing travellers from Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia with greater convenience and connectivity Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR Government Paul Chan Mo-po (centre), Consul General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Hong Kong Hamad Aljebreen (fifth from right), Cathay Group Chair Patrick Healy (fifth from left), Non-Official Member of the Executive Council Jeffrey Lam (fourth from left), Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau (fourth from right), Acting Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of the Airport Authority Hong Kong Vivian Cheung (third from right), Chairman of the Financial Services Development Council Laurence Li (third from left), Commissioner for Belt and Road Nicholas Ho (second from left) and Cathay Pacific crew celebrate the inaugural flight at a launch ceremony held at Hong Kong ......read more

Opening in December, Zuma Riyadh brings its iconic Japanese izakaya experience featuring celebrated flavours and a vibrant ambiance across two stunning floors October 2024, Riyadh | Zuma, the internationally acclaimed contemporary Japanese Izakaya, is set to open its doors in Riyadh this December. In partnership with MJS Holding, Saudi Arabia’s leading hospitality investment and management company, the highly anticipated opening will bring Zuma’s signature style and acclaimed culinary experience to the heart of King Abdullah Financial District. With a traditional yet modern izakaya experience, Zuma Riyadh will showcase the brand’s celebrated concept found in global hotspots like London, Bangkok, and Dubai with three distinct kitchens: the main kitchen, robata grill, and sushi counter. Spread across two floors ......read more

Innovative collaboration between technology leader and industry association aims to deliver revolutionary solution for a more sustainable future in air travel GENEVA – 30 October 2024 – The aviation industry remains at a critical crossroads as it works to reduce its carbon footprint and meet global sustainability targets, all while navigating increasing regulatory pressure. Responsible for around 2% of global carbon emissions, according to the World Economic Forum, and with air travel demand projected to grow by 4.3% annually according to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the industry must act swiftly. In a bold continuation of their longstanding collaboration, SITA, the global leader in air transport technology, and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO) are driving forward SITA Eco ......read more

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that it will offer digital currencies in the financial settlement systems it operates for the aviation industry. “Digitalization impacts many aspects of our daily lives, including the currency we use. With the increasing use of digital currencies, it is imperative that IATA’s industry financial settlement systems adapt to support the needs of those using our services,” said Muhammad Albakri, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services. The first digital currency to be offered is the digital Renminbi, which will be available in the China Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) by the end of 2024.  “China is one of the most advanced countries in the world in the adoption of digital currency. Recognizing the ......read more

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 22 October 2024 – As the much-anticipated outdoor season returns to Riyadh, Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport is excited to present its range of exceptional al fresco dining experiences. From international buffets to rooftop gatherings, we invite guests to indulge in unique culinary offerings while enjoying the refreshing outdoor breeze and vibrant ambiance. With options designed for every occasion, from intimate dinners to lively social events, our outdoor spaces offer the perfect setting to create lasting memories. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the city, Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport has something special waiting for you. Lune – All-Day Buffet and Themed Nights on the Terrace At the heart of our hotel, Lune offers an extraordinary all-day buffet featuring ......read more

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (20 October 2024): This October, Galleria Hotel Jeddah, Curio Collection by Hilton, reinforced its commitment to community and sustainability by successfully hosting two impactful events— a Breast Cancer Awareness Month Event and a series of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Week Activities. From October 14 to 17, the hotel organized initiatives aimed at raising awareness, fostering community engagement, and promoting environmental responsibility, reflecting their dedication to making a positive impact. Held on October 17 on the hotel’s ground floor, the Breast Cancer Awareness Event brought together 100-150 attendees, including industry professionals, doctors, and volunteers, to shed light on breast cancer prevention, early detection, and the importance of blood donation. The event was ......read more

Dubai, UAE, 17 October 2024: Emirates today announced plans to debut newly retrofitted Boeing 777s featuring its latest Business Class and Premium Economy cabins to Kuwait and Dammam, Saudi Arabia, as more aircraft sporting refreshed cabins roll out into scheduled service. The airline aims to offer customers traveling on short flights more opportunities to experience its latest-generation products, in addition to raising the bar for premium travel, with Kuwait and Dammam becoming the second and third cities in the GCC to be served by the refurbished Emirates Boeing 777s. Emirates’ enhanced Boeing 777s with the airline’s signature Premium Economy and next generation Business Class will operate as follows: Kuwait: The retrofitted Emirates Boeing 777 will operate on EK855 and 856 from 27 October. Dammam: The ......read more

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – October 2024: This October, Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences is proud to introduce a range of exquisite food and beverage and spa promotions, crafted to delight and rejuvenate guests in the heart of the capital. Whether you're a culinary enthusiast or in need of some well-deserved relaxation, our carefully curated offers are designed to provide an unparalleled experience. Culinary Adventures Across Our Renowned Restaurants In-Room Dining: Chicken Barbeque Sandwich Roll For a comforting meal in the privacy of your room, indulge in our Chicken Barbeque Sandwich Roll – a rich and hearty sandwich packed with succulent grilled chicken, crispy lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and a tangy barbeque sauce. Priced at SAR 115 (inclusive of VAT), this filling meal is accompanied by a refreshing mint ......read more

With the limited-time offer, Saudi customers can bring a travel companion and experience the airline’s home hub, Hong Kong Cathay Pacific launches a companion offer to celebrate its new route to Saudi Arabia. Cathay Pacific, operating from its home hub, Hong Kong, is giving customers from Saudi Arabia an exciting opportunity to explore its new direct service from Riyadh to Hong Kong with the launch of a limited-time companion offer; tickets are sponsored by Hong Kong International Airport. Applicable to the first 1,000 bookings, customers can enjoy the offer when purchasing two Economy class return tickets from Riyadh to Hong Kong before 31 October 2024 for travel between 28 October 2024 and 29 March 2025 with a minimum travel duration of two days and a maximum of seven days. The companion offer complements Cathay ......read more

02 October 2024 (Marrakech) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airbus, Embraer and Rolls-Royce have established five key principles for access to, and the use of, Aircraft Operational Data (AOD). These are: Consent: AOD can only be extracted with the airline's written consent. Transparency: Airlines have visibility of the data generated by their aircraft and how it is used. Sharing: Airlines can choose the parties they share AOD with and control such sharing. Accessibility: Airlines can access, analyse, and use AOD from aircraft they operate without interference. Responsible Use: Airlines provide AOD to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to improve safety and, if they choose, to support aircraft reliability. The principles apply to AOD generated by aircraft once delivered to the ......read more

The Largest Aviation Event in the Middle East Takes Off in November 2024 HRH Prince Sultan Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz, Founder & Chairman of the Saudi Aviation Club, announces Sand and Fun 2024 will celebrate aviation innovation in the Kingdom The event will take place from November 19 to 23 at Al-Thumamah Airport, Riyadh, showcasing thrilling aerial displays and interactive exhibitions. More than 100,000 visitors are expected to attend the airshow, which will feature top international airshow teams, amazing musical and entertaining performances Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - 02 October 2024 – The Saudi Aviation Club has today announced the highly anticipated return of the Saudi General Aviation Airshow - Sand & Fun 2024, the Middle East's leading General Aviation Airshow. Scheduled to take place from November 19 to ......read more

The Kingdom’s capital first destination in GCC to be served by retrofitted Emirates Boeing 777 Dubai, UAE – 01 October 2024: Riyadh has become Emirates’ first GCC destination to welcome the refurbished Emirates Boeing 777, offering passengers the all-new Business Class cabin and highly acclaimed Premium Economy seats.  The newly refurbished aircraft will operate on the EK 819/820 daily service which departs Dubai at 0710hrs, with a scheduled arrival in Riyadh for 0805hrs. The return flight departs from the Kingdom’s capital at 0940hrs and reaches Dubai at 1235hrs. The four-class Emirates Boeing 777 offers 24 Premium Economy seats arranged in a 2-4-2 layout with 6-way adjustable headrests for added comfort and space – making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers. The ......read more

The company reveals exclusive Saudi National Day offers Riyadh: Wego, the number 1 travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) shares findings on Saudi travelers' plans during the National Day holiday. Wego is expecting an increase in domestic travel searches and bookings as Saudi Arabia gears up to celebrate its 94th National Day on September 23rd, which provides the ideal chance for a short vacation. Residents started planning their trips to both domestic and international destinations. Wego's data shows that the most popular travel destinations from the previous year—such as Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dammam—remain popular and still draw a lot of interest. Other coastal and cultural cities like Abha, Al Madinah, Tabuk, Jazan, and Taif follow. Travelers from ......read more

The Child Protection in Cyberspace (CPC) Global Summit will be held in Riyadh on October 2-3, in conjunction with the GCF Annual Meeting 2024 The Summit will convene international partners and stakeholders to foster collaboration and collective action towards ensuring that children are safe in Cyberspace Riyadh, 19 September 2024 – The Child Protection in Cyberspace (CPC) Global Summit will take place 2-3 October, in Riyadh, bringing together key stakeholders from around the world to collaborate to ensure children are safe and protected in Cyberspace. The Summit is being held in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF), the DQ Institute, and WeProtect Global Alliance. "Protecting children online is a shared ......read more

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia  - 16 September 2024 – This September, The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah, invites guests to indulge in a series of exclusive events and offers designed to create unforgettable experiences against the backdrop of the stunning Red Sea. With a blend of cultural celebrations, exquisite dining, and luxurious accommodations, there is no better place to savor the beauty and spirit of Jeddah. Gastronomic Delights: Evening Brunch at Reyhana The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah, is thrilled to announce the launch of its new Evening Brunch, starting September Guests will be treated to an extended buffet featuring a diverse array of international cuisines. Highlights include a seafood bar, sushi station, pasta, and grill stations, along with a dedicated Alice in Wonderland themed Dessert Room. This unique setting offers a whimsical ......read more

The World’s Best Airline continues to strengthen its network in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, enhancing connectivity for travellers across the region with more than 140 weekly flights 12 September 2024 Doha, Qatar – Qatar Airways is pleased to announce the expansion of its operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with the resumption of services to Abha, operating two weekly flights to Abha International Airport, effective 2 January 2025. In addition, the national carrier of the State of Qatar will also increase its flights to NEOM from two to four weekly flights during the winter season. This schedule and network enhancement will provide passengers with greater travel choices and seamless access to Qatar Airways’ extensive network of over 170 global destinations through Doha’s Hamad International ......read more

London, UK: The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today launched its 2024 Economic Impact Trends Report, which has revealed the U.S. as the world’s most powerful Travel & Tourism market, contributing a record-breaking $2.36 TN to the nation’s economy last year. Despite the slow return of spending from international travellers, the U.S. keeps pole position, with almost double the economic contribution of its nearest rival. Following a record-breaking year for Travel & Tourism, the sector continues to be the backbone to many country economies, while supporting millions of jobs globally. The latest report from the global tourism body reveals China as the world’s second most powerful market with a GDP contribution of US$1.3 TN in 2023, underscoring its impressive rebound, despite the late reopening ......read more

Family-friendly 'Side by Side' program featuring unique bonding experiences this Saudi National Day. Exclusive food packages for families visiting from the Kingdom. Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 3rd September 2024 – Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is delighted to announce an enticing offer for guests celebrating Saudi National Day. As Saudi Arabia marks its 94th National Day, the resort invites Saudi travelers to indulge in a luxurious escape to paradise. Nestled on the picturesque Furanafushi Island in North Male Atoll, the resort is surrounded by turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, offering beautifully designed accommodations. Perfect for a quick getaway, the resort boasts the convenience of a complimentary 15-minute speedboat transfer from the airport. The prime location is further enhanced by ......read more

29 August 2024 (Geneva) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for July 2024 global passenger demand with the following highlights: Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was up 8.0% compared to July 2023. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), was up 7.4% year-on-year. The July load factor was 86.0% (+0.5ppt compared to July 2023). There was no significant negative demand impact from the CrowdStrike IT outage on 19 July. International demand rose 10.1% compared to July 2023. Capacity was up 10.5% year-on-year and the load factor fell to 85.9% (-0.3ppt compared to July 2023). Domestic demand rose 4.8% compared to July 2023. Capacity was up 2.8% year-on-year and the load factor was 86.1% (+1.7ppt compared to July 2023). July was ......read more

Riyadh – 29 August 2024 – Her Highness Princess Haifa Mohammed Al Saud, Vice Minister of Tourism, has initiated the largest programmatic and institutional accreditation initiative. This effort is designed to enhance the quality of tourism education and training, aiming to improve the efficiency of education and training outcomes in the Kingdom's tourism sector and better connect them to the labor market. HH emphasized that since its inception, the Ministry has been dedicated to enhancing the educational and training programs and aligning their outcomes with the needs of the current and future labor market. She noted that the launch of this substantial initiative marks a critical step towards ensuring the success of these efforts. HH also detailed that this initiative, the largest worldwide, involves assessing the ......read more

-        Egypt emerged as a top destination for Saudi travelers due to strong cultural ties and easy travel options. -        Saudi traveler's spending reached a new peak, with an average of $465.49. Riyadh: Wego, the number 1 travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), reveals key insights into Saudi Arabia's summer travel booking trends this year. Rise in summer flight bookings Summer has often been a peak travel season for Saudi travelers and the numbers are likely boosted by Eid al Adha holiday that fell right at the start of summer break. Wego's data revealed a remarkable 16.39% year-over-year (YoY) increase in international flight bookings originating from Saudi Arabia. Domestic flight bookings also witnessed a ......read more

The lavish Italian-inspired destination, which boasts a rich cultural heritage, is a haven for discerning foodies, world travellers, and fashionistas looking to relish the ultimate blend of indulgence and comfort, from culinary delights to luxury shopping experiences Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (1st August 2024): Curio Collection by Hilton’s distinctive architecture and world-class hospitality meet the charm of Italy’s oldest active shopping Gallery to create the stunning Hotel Galleria Jeddah, Curio Collection by Hilton. Nestled in the heart of Jeddah and inspired by Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, this incredible property is the ideal luxury destination to discover a series of picture-perfect moments. Home to an array of exquisite dining experiences, such as Café Milano, the picturesque rooftop Aqua Lounge, and plenty ......read more

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 29 July 2024 — As the summer sun blazes over Riyadh, there’s no better place to cool down and relax than at the Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport! We're thrilled to announce exciting updates to our pool access and packages, designed to offer an oasis of refreshment and enjoyment for all our guests. Beat the Heat with Our Exclusive Pool Access Escape the scorching heat and dive into our sparkling pool, where the water is always perfectly refreshing. Whether you're looking to unwind with a leisurely swim or have a splash-tastic time with family and friends, our pools are the ultimate summer retreat. Pool Access for Adults: 150 SAR Pool Access for Children (Under 12): 75 SAR Indulge in a Delicious Lunch + Pool Package Make the most of your day with our incredible Lunch + Pool ......read more

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 24 July 2024: This July, Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences is proud to present an array of exclusive offerings designed to enhance your stay with us. From delightful culinary experiences to rejuvenating spa treatments, we invite you to indulge in the luxury and comfort that define our services. Savor Exquisite Culinary Delights at Our Award-Winning Restaurants In Room Dining KOREAN SWEET & SPICY FRIED PRAWNS Delight in the exotic flavors of Korean cuisine with our Sweet and Spicy Fried Prawns. These prawns are perfectly fried and glazed in a delicious combination of sweet, spicy, and mildly sour lemon sauce, delivering a tantalizing taste experience. Served with a refreshing nonalcoholic beer, this dish is available for SAR 115 (VAT included), making it an exquisite treat to enjoy in the comfort ......read more

Saudi Arabia's Mobile Networks Shine During Record-Breaking Hajj   Jeddah:   Saudi Arabia's mobile network operators successfully maintained network performance during the recent Hajj pilgrimage, according to a new report by Opensignal, the leading global provider of independent insight and data into network experience and market performance. The report highlights the operators' resilience in handling the surge in data traffic and network congestion caused by the millions of pilgrims visiting Mecca.   Record Data Usage and Tower Deployments   The Communications Space and Technology Commission (CST) of Saudi Arabia reported record data usage during this year's Hajj. Call success rates surpassed an impressive 99% with over 44.8 million voice calls made in Mecca and the holy sites ......read more

Getafe, Spain - 10 July 2024 – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has ordered four additional Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft for the Royal Saudi Arabia Air Force (RSAF). The first of these aircraft will enter into conversion at the beginning of 2026; they will enter into service and join the RSAF in 2027 to carry out air-to-air refuelling and transport missions. “This new order demonstrates the high level of customer satisfaction with the A330 MRTT”, said Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space.  "This is the third contract signed by Saudi Arabia for the A330 MRTT, making the RSAF one of the largest MRTT operators in the world". The contract also includes a logistics support package with spare parts, training services and service support for the new four ......read more

Riyadh – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomes a contribution of 300 metric tons of dates from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to be provided to Sri Lankan children. Provided through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, the dates will be served to primary grade children enrolled in the country's national school meal programme.   The contribution was acknowledged at a signing event between the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Sri Lanka and the World Food Programme.    Sri Lankan children were among those most affected by the impacts of the country's economic downfall in 2022, where lost jobs and reduced incomes have made it harder for families to access nutritious meals. Through this contribution, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia joins international communities in supporting the ......read more

London, UK: The World Travel & Tourism Council’s 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) has revealed a record-breaking year for Travel & Tourism in Saudi Arabia, with new records in GDP contribution, sector jobs and visitor spend. Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism sector is now soaring past all previous records, testament to the country’s commitment to becoming a global tourism hot spot. Last year, the sector grew by more than 32% to contribute a record-breaking SAR 444.3BN to Saudi’s GDP, representing 11.5% of the entire economy. This exceeded the previous record by almost 30% and underscores the sector’s pivotal new role in the nation’s economic framework. Jobs supported by the sector grew by 436,000 to reach more than 2.5MN, representing almost one in five jobs in the ......read more

Strengthening Hong Kong’s role as an important hub for the Belt and Road Initiative Consul General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Hong Kong SAR, Hamad Aljebreen (standing, second from right), Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam (standing, left) and Saudi Air Connectivity Program Chief Executive Officer Majid Khan (standing, right), the agreement was signed by Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau (seated, left) and Saudi Air Connectivity Program Aviation Development Vice President Rashed Alshammari (seated, right). Cathay Pacific is pleased to announce the launch of direct passenger flights to Riyadh, the capital and financial centre of Saudi Arabia, from 28 October 2024, further enhancing connectivity, trade and cultural exchange between its home hub, Hong Kong, and countries ......read more