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 13 March 2026 (Lima) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched DG Digital, IATA's digital Dangerous Goods Declaration solution, as a feature of DG AutoCheck. The new tool fully digitalizes the creation and approval of shippers' declarations for more than 3,800 dangerous items—from lithium batteries to explosives and chemicals. This results in faster document sharing, improved safety, and a ......read full article
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 Al-Baha, March 11, 2026, SPA The Ramadan Nights Festival held at Souq Al-Balad is attracting large numbers of residents and visitors who come to enjoy the Ramadan atmosphere and the diverse activities offered by the festival, reflecting the vibrant social and cultural movement in the region during the holy month.
The festival includes several sections showcasing traditional products, handicrafts, and popular foods, in addition to the ......read full article
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 Jeddah, March 13, 2026, SPA -- Saudia has added 20 flights between Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Red Sea destination during Eid Al-Fitr, in cooperation with the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and the Red Sea destination, as part of a partnership aimed at promoting tourist destinations and supporting the development of the Kingdom’s tourism sector. This brings the total number of flights in both directions to 44.
The long-term partnership ......read full article
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 12 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is advancing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in air cargo with three initiatives to improve operational efficiency, strengthen safety and compliance, and accelerate innovation across the global air cargo value chain:
Making publications more efficient: IATA is launching an AI Subject Matter Expert (AI SME), a mobile and web-based ......read full article
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Riyadh, March 12, 2026, SPA -- The Roads General Authority has affirmed the full preparedness of the Kingdom’s road network to serve citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries as part of RGA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regional connectivity and provide a safe and comfortable travel experience for all.
The RGA said these efforts reflect Saudi Arabia’s leading global position in the road network connectivity ......read full article
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 11 March 2026 (Lima, Peru) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) today released a report, showing air cargo’s vital role in sustaining global trade and supporting economic growth in 2025 amid severe trade policy uncertainty. Two key report findings are that:
Air cargo enabled the frontloading of $157 billion US imports in the first quarter of 2025.
Air cargo transported more than two thirds of global ......read full article
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 11 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted three priorities for the global air cargo industry:
Accelerating digitalization
Strengthening global standards
Enhancing safety and security
"Air cargo plays a critical role in connecting businesses to global markets and keeping supply chains moving, even as the operating environment becomes more complex. With so many external events ......read full article
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 Dammam, March 09, 2026, SPA -- Tourism activities in Jubail Industrial City have witnessed increased economic and recreational momentum during Ramadan, particularly through iftar cruises that have enhanced the activity of local marinas and highlighted the city’s beaches as attractive destinations for relaxation and leisure.
Several organizers told SPA that Fanateer Marina and Dareen Marina serve as the main departure points for these ......read full article
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 0 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its 2025 Annual Safety Report demonstrating a solid year of safety performance with the following highlights:
The all-accident rate of 1.32 per million flights (one accident per 759,646 flights) was better than the 1.42 recorded in 2024 but slightly above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 1.27.
There were 51 accidents in 2025 ......read full article
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 9 March 2026 (Amman) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2026 edition of IATA Focus Africa Conference will convene under the theme 'Elevating Aviation Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency in Africa' in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 29-30 April 2026, hosted by Ethiopian Airlines.
"Aviation has the potential to do much more to enable Africa's economic and social ......read full article
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 Farasan, March 09, 2026, SPA -- The Farasan Islands, located in Jazan Region and known for their pristine nature, rich biodiversity, sandy beaches, and the Farasan Islands Protected Area, are attracting growing numbers of residents and visitors with the launch of the Ramadan market held alongside the “Layali Ramadan” (Ramadan Nights) events, creating a festive atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the holy month.
The market ......read full article
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 Makkah, March 05, 2026, SPA -- The storyteller event revitalizes a traditional folk art that has historically provided education and entertainment. As part of the Hira Ramadan nights, the Hira Cultural District celebrates this heritage in a vibrant atmosphere, drawing families and children.
The event showcased essential Arabic oral traditions through stories rooted in folk narratives that highlight human values. Delivered interactively, the ......read full article
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 Taif, March 5, 2026, SPA -- Some residents who are fasting in Taif Governorate choose to have iftar at open natural sites among mountains and highlands. Sunset moments blend with stillness and clear air. The Ramadan experience pairs the setting’s spirituality with the natural beauty that distinguishes the governorate.
One citizen said Taif’s mountain highlands, including “Dakkah Al-Halwani,” are a favorite destination ......read full article
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Riyadh, March 05, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Tourism has intensified its inspections of hospitality facilities, including hotels and serviced apartments, in Makkah and Madinah during the first half of Ramadan.
In Makkah, teams conducted 1,166 inspections, identifying 762 violations, while in Madinah, they carried out 426 inspections and found 128 violations. Additionally, the ministry conducted 887 awareness visits in Makkah and ......read full article
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 Madinah, March 03, 2026, SPA -- Madinah welcomes March 2026 with a diverse calendar of events as part of the Madinah Winter Season. This program includes culture, entertainment, adventure, sports, shopping, and Ramadan activities, providing an integrated experience for visitors and residents.
Key highlights include the 14th Cultures and Peoples Festival from March 29 to April 6 and the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth) Ramadan ......read full article
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 Jeddah, March 03, 2026, SPA -- Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Saleh Al-Jasser inspected the facilities of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah on Monday.
He was accompanied by GACA President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej; CEO of Matarat Holding Raed Al-Idrissi; Chairman of the Board of Directors of Jeddah Airports Company Eng. ......read full article
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 26 February 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the opening of nominations for the 2026 edition of the IATA Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Awards. The Awards recognize excellence in the promotion of diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry in three categories:
The Inspirational Role Model Award recognizes a woman holding a senior position within the ......read full article
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Red Sea Museum hosted opening event on 25 February 2026 featuring welcome remarks, curator-led tour, and panel discussion on underwater archaeology
Evening programme brought together cultural leaders, archaeologists, scientists, and community partners to mark the launch of major temporary exhibition exploring Red Sea maritime heritage
Opening aligns with Ramadan programming and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 commitment to developing ......read full article
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 Jeddah, February 26, 2026, SPA -- Jeddah Waterfront has emerged as a leading tourist destination during Ramadan. The site offers a comprehensive experience that combines entertainment, sports, arts and hospitality.
The promenade extends along the Red Sea. It provides visitors with an ideal setting for evening walks after iftar in a calm atmosphere and pleasant weather. Subtle nighttime lighting enhances the ambiance and reflects the spirit of ......read full article
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Designed around comfort, reliability and time gained
A calm option for commuters, business travellers and families
A passenger experience built for every-day and every-way of life
Abu Dhabi, UAE – 25 February 2026: Following the announcement of the UAE's national passenger rail network, Etihad Rail has revealed new details on what passengers can expect when services start operating later this year.
The passenger ......read full article
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 Makkah, February 25, 2026, SPA -- Ramadan street stalls in the neighborhoods of Makkah are among the most prominent seasonal features accompanying the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan.
They form a daily scene that reflects Ramadan’s distinct character and evokes elements of collective memory linked to the city’s culinary and social traditions.
These stalls spread across neighborhood surroundings ahead of the Maghrib call to ......read full article
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 Makkah, February 22, 2026, SPA -- As part of the seasonal community events accompanying the “Makkah Winter” programs, the Lanterns Festival has emerged as a family-oriented entertainment event. It contributes to the vibrancy of Ramadan nights in Makkah, a city known for its spiritual atmosphere and deep-rooted social traditions.
The festival offers an open, community-oriented experience for families and children. It features ......read full article
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 Riyadh, February 23, 2026, SPA -- The General Directorate of Passports marked the 299th anniversary of the founding of the Saudi state at international ports of entry across the Kingdom.
Founding Day embodies pride in the nation’s history and highlights the documented journey of its leaders and citizens. The occasion reflects the depth of the Saudi state and the enduring legacy of the heroes whose achievements have shaped a deep-rooted ......read full article
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 Makkah, February 20, 2026, SPA -- The 13 minarets of the Grand Mosque in Makkah, ranging in height from 98 to 137 meters, stand as architectural masterpieces that blend traditional Islamic design with modern engineering, while their strategic placement across major entrances creates a harmonious skyline.
Each minaret follows a precise five-section anatomy: a sturdy base, a primary balcony, a slender shaft, a secondary balcony, and a crowning ......read full article
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 Riyadh, February 16, 2026, SPA -- Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) Advisor Turki Alalshikh announced that the number of visitors to Riyadh Season in its sixth edition has reached 17 million, coinciding with the conclusion of the season’s activities, reflecting the significant turnout and wide public engagement witnessed since its launch.
Launched last October, Riyadh Season delivered an ......read full article
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 18 February 2026 (Geneva/Madrid) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Spanish Airline Association (ALA) called for an annual reduction of 4.9% (excluding inflation) in Spanish airport charges over the next five years (2027–2031), a level compatible with maintaining an airport investment plan of nearly €10 billion over the same period, and enhancing Spain’s economic competitiveness.
AENA, the ......read full article
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Makkah, February 16, 2026, SPA -- Makkah is witnessing a significant rise in economic activity in anticipation of Ramadan 1447AH. Market footfall, commercial centers, and hotel occupancy are rapidly increasing, highlighting the city's importance during this religious period.
Demand is strong in the retail and food sectors for essential goods, dates, beverages, and seasonal decorations. Traditional and modern markets report vibrant ......read full article
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 Riyadh, February 13, 2026, SPA -- The Heritage Commission has concluded its second archaeological season at the Ra’s Qurayyah Port in Al-Ahsa Governorate, Eastern Region, uncovering 147 diverse architectural units, including large courtyards and ancient wells.
Located 26 km northwest of Al-Uqair Port, the site yielded significant artifacts, including an Abbasid dirham minted in 148 AH, bronze ornaments, and glazed ......read full article
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 Al-Edabi, February 10, 2026, SPA -- Visitors to the Jazan Honey Exhibition, held as part of the Jazan Festival 2026, are enthusiastically sampling a wide range of honey varieties presented by 60 beekeepers from different governorates across the region.
Organizers implemented laboratory testing to ensure the safety and high quality of the honey offered to buyers. With strong attendance from residents and visitors, the exhibition seeks to ......read full article
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 Hail, February 09, 2026, SPA -- The pleasant weather currently prevailing in the mountainous highlands of Saqf village in Hail Region has attracted visitors and picnickers eager to enjoy the stunning scenery, hike in the mountains, and capture photographs, significantly boosting tourism and showcasing the region's natural splendor.
Diplotaxis acris has spread remarkably across the mountains, transforming the area into a captivating ......read full article
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 Makkah, February 06, 2026, SPA -- Makkah is undergoing a qualitative urban shift by integrating cultural and entertainment events to enhance the quality of life for residents and pilgrims, highlighted by the Makkah winter season.
The event attracted up to 400,000 visitors, over 60% of them locals, revitalized public spaces, increased recreational site visits by 35%, and created more than 1,200 temporary jobs.
In parallel with these ......read full article
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 Riyadh, February 02, 2026, SPA -- A panel discussion held as part of the fifth annual Saudi Media Forum examined trends in the tourism media industry and its role in strengthening national identity and enhancing the competitiveness of the Kingdom's tourist destinations.
The session, titled “The Tourism Media Industry: Strategies and Trends,” featured Saudi Tourism Authority spokesman Abdullah Al-Dakhil, List Magazine ......read full article
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Saudi Arabia’s hospitality market is forecast to grow from US$27 billion in 2025 to over US$54 billion, driven by Vision 2030, premium hotel development, and evolving inbound travel demand
WTM Spotlight in Saudi Arabia will unite the global and regional tourism and hospitality sectors through exhibition, conference, and networking opportunities
WTM Spotlight in Saudi Arabia will make its debut from 8 - 10 September at the Riyadh ......read full article
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 Makkah, January 3, 2026, SPA -- The mild winter weather currently prevailing in Makkah has contributed to enhancing residents’ quality of life by encouraging greater use of public facilities and increasing levels of social interaction. With temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius, the weather has created ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
Public parks and walking paths across various neighborhoods of Makkah have seen ......read full article
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 SalamAir, the Sultanate of Oman’s low-cost carrier, has inaugurated its new direct service to Abha in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, strengthening air connectivity between the two brotherly nations and supporting growing tourism flows between Oman and the Asir Region. The new route forms part of SalamAir’s ongoing expansion of its regional destination network.
The inaugural flight departed from Muscat International ......read full article
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Saudi Arabia’s national aviation regulator, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) signed an agreement with Archer to create a regulatory pathway for eVTOL deployment in the Kingdom.
GACA plans to model its regulatory pathway on the Federal Aviation Administration’s and Department of Transportation’s eVTOL Implementation Pilot Program (eIPP) in order to establish early operations in cities such as Riyadh and ......read full article
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 10 December 2025 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that USD 1.2 billion in airline funds are blocked from repatriation by governments as of the end of October 2025. A marginal improvement of USD 100 million has been made since last reported in April 2025. Out of total blocked funds reported, 93% are trapped in Africa and Middle East (AME).
IATA called on governments to lift all restrictions on ......read full article
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 RIYADH, KSA (December 2025) - This season, The Red Sea EDITION invites guests to experience a modern coastal escape along Saudi Arabia's most captivating shoreline. From 24 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, guests can enjoy a refined getaway available across all room types, including a lavish daily breakfast, a vibrant daily entertainment program, and an exceptional 31 December celebration featuring world-class performances.
The ......read full article
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 AlUla, Saudi Arabia, 1 December 2025:
AlUla, the ancient crossroads of civilisations and global cultural destination, is set to welcome 2026 with a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration, headlined by two of the Arab world’s most beloved musical icons. Assala Nasri and Adam will take the stage on 31 December 2025 for a gala concert that blends world-class entertainment with the dramatic natural beauty of AlUla.
Hosted at the ......read full article
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 Premium hospitality, world-class golf and luxury lifestyle experiences reshape Thailand’s business travel landscape.
Thailand is emerging as a preferred destination for business travellers from the Gulf who are increasingly combining work commitments with elevated leisure and luxury experiences. With premium hospitality, modern business districts and an expanding ecosystem of high-end lifestyle offerings, the country is positioning ......read full article
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