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

Shang Palace, the home of soulful and modern Chinese cuisine and the recipient of the prestigious “Jeddah’s Best Asian Restaurant” award in 2024, “Saudi Arabia’s Best Hotel Restaurant” award in 2023 and 2022, is excited to announce the return of its popular Shang Palace Weekend Brunch this summer. Families can head to the signature Chinese restaurant, Shang Palace at Shangri-La Jeddah for an exceptional brunch experience that is set to transform weekends with an array of delectable dishes in an enchanting atmosphere that welcomes families to create memorable moments. Every Friday and Saturday, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the brunch gracefully revamps Shang Palace into a haven of culinary delights defined by taste. The star of the show is the exclusive set menu featuring a variety of Dim Sums, coupled ......read more

02 June 2024 (Dubai) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that it will establish the SAF Registry (Registry) to accelerate the uptake of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) by authoritatively accounting and reporting emissions reductions from SAF. Seventeen airlines, one airline group, six national authorities, three Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and one fuel producer are already supporting the effort to develop the Registry. The Registry is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2025. SAF is expected to account for up to 65% of the total carbon mitigation needed to achieve net zero carbon emissions in air transportation by 2050. "SAF is key to aviation's decarbonization. Airlines want more SAF and stand ready to use every drop of it. The SAF Registry will help meet the critical ......read more

29 May 2024 - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for April 2024 global air cargo markets showing strong annual growth in demand into the second quarter (Q2). Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs*), rose by 11.1% compared to April 2023 levels (11.6% for international operations). This is the fifth consecutive month of double-digit year-on-year growth.   Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTKs), increased by 7.1% compared to April 2023 (10.2% for international operations).   "Air cargo demand started Q2 with a solid 11.1% increase. While many economic uncertainties remain, it appears that the roots of air cargo's strong performance are deepening. In recent months, air cargo demand grew even when the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) was indicating ......read more

May 29, 2024, Soudah, Saudi Arabia – Soudah Development and Warner Bros. Discovery International signed a one-year partnership agreement to promote and celebrate the distinctive nature, culture, and heritage of Soudah and parts of Rijal Almaa, a region situated in southwest Saudi Arabia. This collaboration will focus on raising awareness of Soudah Peaks – an upcoming luxury mountain tourism destination set 3,015 meters above sea level, on the highest peak in Saudi Arabia – and showcase its unparalleled beauty and diversity to a global audience. The partnership agreement entails the production of three short-form documentaries that will highlight Soudah's natural landscapes, cultural heritage, ancestral traditions, architectural aesthetics, local community, and its wide range of unparalleled offerings including ......read more

Taking place on Thursday, May 30th from 6:30pm to 10:30pm, this incredible dinner buffet will see the two chefs come together to craft an exceptional menu boasting a variety of mouthwatering international dishes Makkah, Saudi Arabia (23 May 2024): Something special for discerning foodies is coming to Makkah as Address Jabal Omar Makkah announces its exceptional culinary event taking place on May 30th, from 6:30pm to 10:30pm, priced at 190 SAR per person. This exclusive dinner buffet will feature a unique collaboration between two renowned chefs: Chef Mike Wilkinson, the Executive Chef, Culinary Director, and Food & Beverage Consultant at Address Jabal Omar Makkah, and Chef Jouhaina, a distinguished Saudi female chef specialising in French cuisine. Diners can expect a mouthwatering display of culinary excellence as these two ......read more

Dar Tantora The House Hotel offers total immersion into the cultural heritage of one of Arabia's most impressive heritage sites The 30-room boutique eco-community sits in the heart of AlUla's Old Town - a labyrinth of 12th Century mud and stone brick buildings AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 23 May 2024 The Dar Tantora The House Hotel, AlUla Old Town, Saudi Arabia is officially open for bookings now. Operated by Kerten Hospitality, this unique 30-room boutique eco-community, designed in collaboration with Egyptian Architect Shahira Fahmy sits in the heart of AlUla's Old Town - a labyrinth of 12th Century mud and stone brick buildings, surrounding a 10th-century castle or fort. Built with the same materials and architectural techniques as AlUla Old Town's 900 surviving traditional houses, the property ......read more

At a significant launch event in Riyadh organized by the Saudi Tourism Authority, His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb unveiled the Saudi Summer Program 2024. Saudi’s summer program will run for 4 months across 7 destinations: Aseer, Al Baha, Taif, Jeddah, Riyadh, the Red Sea, and AlUla. The summer program includes over 550 exceptional tourism products and over 150 special offers and packages curated for families and children across different segments. Riyadh, 21 May, 2024: In an event held under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Tourism, the Saudi Tourism Authority launched the country’s spectacular summer program for 2024, “Saudi Summer is Next Door.” Saudi’s summer program will run for four months until the end of September across seven destinations and includes over 550 exceptional ......read more

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 20 May 2024 - Saudia Group, represented by Saudia, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and flyadeal, the group’s low-cost carrier, has signed a firm order for an additional 105 A320neo Family aircraft. The order comprises 12 A320neo and 93 A321neo aircraft. This increases Saudia Group’s Airbus aircraft order backlog to 144 A320neo family aircraft. The agreement was announced at the Future Aviation Forum in Riyadh in the presence of H.E. Saleh bin Nasser AIJasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said: "Saudia has ......read more

Epik foods, Mama Noura, Shawarma Classic, JJ Chicken, and Boxit Meals named winners of the Deliverect Star award Deliverect announces the selected restaurants achieved a 100% success rate on orders processed via the Deliverect platform in the first three months of 2024 Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 16 May 2024: Deliverect, an all-in-one digital solution that seamlessly integrates and consolidates online orders in the global food service industry, has revealed the winners of its ‘Deliverect Star’ award for achieving 0% failed orders during the first quarter of 2024. Epik Foods was named the regional winner, JJ Chicken and Boxit Meals were named the two UAE winners, while Mama Noura and Shawarma Classic were named the top restaurant brands in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Deliverect’s Star initiative aims to ......read more

The hotel is led by Accor's first female hotel General Manager in Saudi Arabia,with 232 modern rooms and suites, state-of-the-art facilities, and nine meeting spaces Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 14 May 2024 – Novotel, the world's most well-known midscale brand by Accor, unveils the latest addition to its portfolio in Saudi Arabia, Novotel Riyadh Sahafa. This marks the ninth Novotel property across the Kingdom and is being led by Accor's first female hotel General Manager in Saudi Arabia, Hessa Al Mazroa. Strategically located in the vibrant Al Sahafa district, this contemporary property is the ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers seeking a blend of comfort, convenience and wellbeing. Novotel Riyadh Sahafa is set in close proximity to King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh Exhibition Center and Riyadh ......read more

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 14 May 2024: As the vibrant spring season continues, Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences is excited to announce an array of exclusive offerings for the month of May. From gourmet culinary experiences to revitalizing spa promotions, each offer is designed to enhance your time at the Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences. Conveniently located close to the Granada Mall, with its upscale restaurants and over 120 boutiques, the hotel’s proximity to the city centre, business district, and key attractions offers captivating views of Al Faisaliah Tower and the Kingdom Centre. FINE DINING AT HILTON RIYADH HOTEL & RESIDENCES Rise and Shine at Teatro: Teatro’s offers across both its extensive breakfast and brunch options are designed to satisfy guests of all ages. With an array of stations from ......read more

This incredible hotel invites you to delight in a wide range of gastronomic experiences throughout the month, allowing you to savour global cuisines while immersing yourself in the spirit of the sacred city of Makkah Makkah, Saudi Arabia (09 May 2024): Address Jabal Omar Makkah, the iconic luxury hospitality destination in the heart of Makkah, is pleased to invite you to enjoy a host of culinary experiences this May. Nestled in the heart of Makkah and boasting awe-inspiring panoramas of the Holy Kaaba and the city’s most sacred attractions, this stunning property offers an extraordinary stay for pilgrims and tourists alike. From flavourful Mediterranean and Asian delights to elegant afternoon tea experiences, Address Jabal Omar Makkah has something to delight even the most discerning palate. The Restaurant As the ......read more

07 May 2024 (Reykjavík)  -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted three priorities for ground handling at the IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) which opened in Reykjavík today hosted by Icelandair: Improving safety through reducing operational risk  Implementing global standards Embedding sustainability – people, planet, and prosperity – in all activities “Ground handling forms the backbone of aviation. It is critical to ensuring the safe and efficient transport of millions of travelers each year. With travel demand for the upcoming peak Northern summer season predicted to surge by 12% over last year, the ground handling sector will need to be ready. Our priorities are clear: improving safety, implementation of global standards and embedding sustainability ......read more

Riyadh: WhiteWater is delighted to announce their collaboration with Aquarabia Qiddiya City, a groundbreaking water theme park in Saudi Arabia, to bring a unique aquatic experience to life. WhiteWater will be designing and delivering 22 exhilarating rides and attractions including some record-breaking and signature experiences. Slide enthusiasts will enjoy the heart pumping rides while the families get to experience some of their favorite slides and kids' activities with a twist. One of the standout areas of the park for the entire family to play together, features a FusionFortress 18. This structure is known for its ground-level interactives so children with limited mobility can still explore and engage with the toys spraying their siblings with jets, turning wheels to set off various reactions on the structure, and, ......read more

Dubai, UAE, 7 May 2024: Emirates and flynas have today signed an expanded two-way interline partnership on the sidelines of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), with plans to open up connections and more travel choices for flynas customers via Dubai. The MoU was signed at ATM by Adnan Kazim, Emirates' Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, and Bander Almohanna, Group CEO & Managing Director of flynas, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, and flynas Chairman Ayed Al Jeaid, along with other senior representatives from both airlines.  Emirates' current interline with flynas provides its customers with enhanced connectivity via its four gateways – Riyadh, Jeddah, Medinah and Dammam - to over 15 domestic points in the Kingdom ......read more

Steps from the Prophet’s Mosque, the Hotel will offer luxury accommodations to the city’s tens of millions of annual visitors Dubai, United Arab Emirates - May 7, 2024 - Leading luxury hospitality company Four Seasons and Saudi-based development firm Dar Al Omran Company announce plans for continued expansion in the Middle East with Four Seasons Hotel Madinah, anticipated to open in late 2024.  The new-build hotel will be located at the heart of Madinah and steps from one of the most historic and significant sites in the region: Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, also known as the Prophet’s Mosque. The city has a storied history, drawing millions of visitors each year to its art centres, museums and heritage sites that include the inspiring Mount Uhud and Quba Mosque, which is regarded as the oldest mosque in the ......read more

Al Jubail, Saudi Arabia, 01 May 2024: Gulftainer, a leading operator of regional ports and terminals, and a provider of customised supply chain and logistics solutions, achieved a significant milestone in its logistics operations in Saudi Arabia by handling a seamless rail cargo operation from Al Jubail to Al Riyadh. Through its subsidiary, Gulf Stevedoring Contracting Company (GSCCO), based in Saudi Arabia, Gulftainer managed the handling of 59 full import containers from the vessel MSC DANIT. These containers were efficiently offloaded and processed on Friday; setting sail the following day. The successful execution of this operation was celebrated during a ceremony at Al Jubail facility, where esteemed representatives from Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani), Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), MSC and Saudi Customs witnessed the meticulous ......read more

25th April 2024, Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Innovations Group, the largest HR and staffing solutions provider, closed off on a successful recruitment drive in Philippines and Kenya for the Aviation Industry, under Food and Beverages (F&B) category for a multinational company in the region of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The four-day drive, held across two cities in the Philippines, and a single-day event in Kenya, saw the company recruit over 300 talented individuals. These new hires fill a diverse range of positions within the Food and Beverage sector, encompassing roles from stewards and baristas to restaurant managers and customer delight professionals. The client for this drive was a multinational corporation that has more than 100 airports across the globe. The recruitment drive held in the nations of the ......read more

The Dubai-based carrier announces services to two destinations in Saudi Arabia with the launch of twice-weekly flights to Al Jouf and Red Sea International flydubai grows its network to 129 destinations in 58 countries Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 28 March 2024: flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, has announced today the launch of services to two destinations in Saudi Arabia. This includes the resumption of flights to Al Jouf and the start of operations to Red Sea International. Flights to Al Jouf Airport (AJF) and Red Sea International Airport (RSI) start from 18 April and will operate twice a week from Terminal 2, Dubai International (DXB). Hamad Obaidalla, Chief Commercial Officer at flydubai, said: “we are pleased to further expand our network in the GCC with the launch of flights to Al Jouf and Red Sea ......read more

17 March 2024: SalamAir, Oman's first low-cost airline, celebrated the grand opening of its new office in Baghdad on March 9th, 2024.  The ceremony, held at the Al Asal Building, 14th Ramadan St. Al Mansour district, marked a significant milestone for the airline. His Excellency Hamed Ahmed Eidroos, Ambassador of Oman in Iraq, attended the event and highlighted the historic significance of SalamAir's arrival in Baghdad.  The ceremony also welcomed the presence of the Kuwaiti Ambassador and the Yemeni Ambassador to Iraq, alongside distinguished guests from various authorities, airports, and esteemed trade partners from Baghdad and across Iraq. This new office marks the first of an Omani airline in Iraq, symbolizing a crucial step forward.  After a 20-year hiatus in direct flights between Oman and Iraq, ......read more

12 March 2024 (Hong Kong) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reviewed progress in digitalization, safety and sustainability at the opening of the IATA World Cargo Symposium with the aim of accelerating progress on these critical priorities. “Air cargo volumes are now firmly back to pre-pandemic levels. The challenge now is to ensure that air cargo growth is efficient, safe and aligned with achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Through the hard work of the air cargo industry, the building blocks are in place to significantly accelerate progress in all these areas,” said Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo at the World Cargo Symposium (WCS), which opened in Hong Kong, today. Digitalization “The biggest opportunity for the air cargo industry is digitalization. This has ......read more

SalamAir, Oman’s first low-cost airline, is thrilled to announce the revival of two of its most sought-after summer destinations, Baku in Azerbaijan, and Almaty in Kazakhstan, in response to overwhelming travel demand. Following a highly successful summer season last year, the decision to restart these destinations reflects the company's commitment to meeting the preferences and desires of its valued customers.  Last year saw unprecedented demand for Baku and Almaty, with travelers seeking unique and vibrant experiences. The appeal of these destinations lies in their rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and a myriad of attractions that cater to a diverse range of interests.  The decision to restart services to Baku and Almaty is a testament to the popularity of these destinations and a response to the ......read more

Set to open in January 2027, Regent Riyadh KAFD and InterContinental Riyadh KAFD will add to IHG's luxury portfolio in KAFD. Dubai, 08 March 2024: IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world's leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement with the King Abdullah Financial District Management and Development Company (KAFD DMC) to bring two more luxury hotels to Riyadh. In an expansion of the IHG-KAFD partnership, Regent Riyadh KAFD and InterContinental Riyadh KAFD are poised to complement the region's first Kimpton at KAFD, which is set to debut by the end of 2024 as part of the agreement established last year, bringing its total to three properties in KAFD. Set in the heart of the Saudi capital, Riyadh, KAFD is the first vertical city in the Kingdom that is home to a unique 5-asset class mixed-use district of ......read more

GREENVILLE, S.C., March 7, 2024 – Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) today marked a significant milestone with the departure of the first ferry cell of three F-16 Block 70 jets from Greenville, South Carolina, to Bahrain. This event highlights Bahrain's role as the first Gulf Cooperation Council member to operate the F-16 and now the first to integrate the F-16 Block 70 variant into its fleet. To date, Lockheed Martin has produced five F-16 Block 70 jets for Bahrain, with an additional 11 in various stages of production and testing. The initial aircraft are performing flight test missions at Edwards Air Force Base, California, with the 416th Flight Test Squadron. OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager of the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin, emphasized the importance of the F-16 in the joint 21st Century ......read more

Riyadh, March 6th, 2024: Riyadh Airports Company, which manages and operates King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, has launched the "Riyadh Airports Innovation Council" in collaboration with Cognizant. This digital initiative aims to foster collaborative innovation and improve the passenger experience. The announcement was made during LEAP Expo 2024. The travel sector witnessed a recovery in 2023 compared to previous years, driven by changes in traveler behaviors and their digital expectations. This necessitated the adoption of modern and innovative technologies that contribute to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and enhancing the customer experience. Mr. Osama Alfawaz, the Chief ICT Officer at Riyadh Airports, commented on the collaboration, stating, "We trust the excellent capabilities provided by ......read more

RIYADH,  Saudi Arabia has received international recognition and applause from UN Tourism and the World Travel & Tourism Council for its remarkable achievement of welcoming over 100 million tourists in 2023. This accomplishment significantly surpassed the previous target set for 2030, positioning Saudi Arabia as an emerging global tourism powerhouse. Saudi Arabia's achievement of welcoming +100 million tourists receives global recognition from UN Tourism and WTTC The Ministry of Tourism announced that the Kingdom has achieved this milestone seven years ahead of the initial goal according to the latest data. Motivated by this success, the Kingdom has now set a new ambitious target of welcoming 150 million tourists by 2030. Tourism has proven to be a significant contributor to the nation's economy, with ......read more

28 February 2024 - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its 2023 Annual Safety Report for global aviation. Aviation continues to make progress on safety with several 2023 parameters showing “best-ever” results. There were no hull losses or fatal accidents involving passenger jet aircraft in 2023. However, there was a single fatal accident involving a turboprop aircraft, resulting in 72 fatalities. There were 37 million aircraft movements in 2023 (jet and turboprop), an increase of 17% on the previous year. Report highlights include: The all accident rate was 0.80 per million sectors in 2023 (one accident for every 1.26 million flights), an improvement from 1.30 in 2022 and the lowest rate in over a decade. This rate outperformed the five-year (2019-2023) rolling average of 1.19 (an average ......read more