The Agentic Tourism Initiative was unveiled at the inaugural TOURISE Summit, introducing the world’s first Agentic Protocol for Tourism, a universal digital framework set to transform every stage of the traveler’s journey. Launched in partnership with TOURISE and Globant, the Initiative builds on the momentum of the acclaimed whitepaper Tourism’s AI Takeover: Reinventing Travel through Agentic Tourism to create a landmark application of AI. It directly answers the whitepaper’s call to create an Open Protocol for Tourism AI, defining how AI agents interact from inspiration to return. The result: intelligent, seamless, and sustainable travel experiences across the global tourism ecosystem. The Initiative brings together a diverse coalition of founding members across technology, infrastructure, aviation, and destination leadership, including: Globant, Red Sea Global, HUMAIN, Riyadh Air, King Salman International Airport, World Travel & Tourism Council, Amazon Web Services, Salesforce, Hollibob, and Trip.com. This collaborative approach ensures the Agentic Protocol is technically robust, inclusive, and adaptable to the evolving needs of travelers, operators, and destinations worldwide. “We are proud to see the Agentic Tourism Initiative take flight from the Kingdom, reflecting our commitment to shaping the future of global travel through innovation and collaboration. This protocol represents a bold step toward harmonizing technology with the human spirit of exploration. By anchoring AI in empathy and cultural intelligence, we are not only enhancing the traveler’s experience, we are empowering destinations to grow sustainably, inclusively, and with purpose,” said His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Guided by the principle “Digitize the expected. Humanize the unexpected,” the Initiative aims to amplify, not replace, human creativity, empathy, and connection. AI will serve as an enabler, empowering the people and places …

flyadeal announced the Holy City of Madinah as its fourth and newest base in the Kingdom. Two aircraft will be permanently positioned at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport from 1 January 2026. flyadeal currently has operational bases in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. Domestic scheduled flights from Madinah will be launched to four cities across the Kingdom – the southwest coastal city of Jazan; Tabuk in the northwest; Al Hofuf in the country’s Eastern Province; and Abha in the southwestern mountainous region of Aseer province.  Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Istanbul will become the second international destination to be introduced direct from Madinah, with plans for further expansion beyond Saudia Arabia over the next few months. The additional flights will increase flyadeal’s existing capacity from Madinah by 30 per cent to 84 scheduled domestic and international services a week. flyadeal’s current Madinah operations cover domestic services to Dammam and Riyadh, plus international flights to the Egyptian capital, Cairo. The carrier also operates year-round Umrah services from several countries direct to Madinah, north of the Saudi port city of Jeddah. Steven Greenway, flyadeal Chief Executive Officer, said: “With scale comes opportunities. flyadeal has progressively increased its fleet size to 43 which allows us to now position aircraft across principal cities including Madinah where passenger demand simply demands our resources to be spread out. Madinah was a natural addition as a base given its prominence as the second holiest city in the Islamic world that draws pilgrims from all parts of the globe throughout the year.” Almost 70 per cent of flyadeal’s 43-strong narrowbody fleet of Airbus A320s is based at King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi capital Riyadh; 11 aircraft are positioned …

The largest ever edition of Dubai Airshow has opened at Dubai World Central (DWC) – Dubai Airshow Site. During day one, significant orders and deals were announced, including a multi-billion-dollar commercial order from Emirates, reaffirming the strong demand for air travel. Emirates announced an order for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft, powered by GE 9X engines, worth US$ 38 billion. In addition, Ethiopian Airlines committed to purchase 11 additional 737 MAX jets, which will enable the airline to grow its regional and international networks and expand its Addis Ababa hub. Boeing and TAAG Angola Airlines also announced an agreement to extend training programs for pilots. The pilot training programs will focus on competency and data-informed scenarios for both new student pilots and experienced professional pilots. Furthermore, Embraer signed an agreement with Airlink to support its new fleet of 10 Azorra leased E195-E2 jets. Further news from day one includes Airbus Helicopters welcoming Bristow Group, a global leader in innovative and sustainable vertical flight solutions, as the newest operator of the Airbus H160. It will introduce up to five H160s into its fleet for offshore energy missions across Africa. The UAE’s Tawazun council also announced eight deals totalling AED 3.766 billion, including contracts signed with Global Air Navigation Services (GANS), GAL, International Golden Group (IGG), Maximus Air, and Abu Dhabi Shipping Agency LLC (ADSA). flydubai placed a new order for 60 GEnx-1B engines from GE Aerospace to support its upcoming fleet of 30 Boeing 787-9 aircraft. The agreement also covers spare engines and a long-term service package that will support the airline as it prepares to begin long-haul operations. Tim Hawes, Managing Director of Informa Markets said: “Dubai Airshow 2025 opened with …

The Jamaica Tourist Board continues with its “Discover Jamaica” webinar series for GCC-based travel professionals. The next session will take place on the 19 November at 13:00 UAE Time. Designed exclusively for travel agents in the Gulf region, this session provides a comprehensive overview of Jamaica as a viable destination, equipping agents with the knowledge they need to confidently sell the island. The webinar will cover essential facts about Jamaica, including its key resort areas – Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, Kingston, Port Antonio, and the South Coast, highlighting their unique selling points, top hotels and resorts, and must-see attractions, from Dunn’s River Falls to the Blue Mountains. This webinar is a valuable resource to help travel agents design unforgettable Caribbean itineraries for their clients.

Red Sea Global (RSG) announced the launch of the first ever direct flight from Europe to Red Sea International Airport (RSI) conducted by beOnd, the world’s first premium leisure airline. The new route establishes a direct link between Europe and The Red Sea and AMAALA, offering European travellers seamless access to the world’s most exciting new luxury and regenerative tourism destinations. Guests will enjoy beOnd’s signature premium experience and RSI’s world-class design, meticulously shaped by innovation and a deep respect for the natural surroundings. The launch was celebrated with a special signing ceremony at TOURISE Global Tourism Summit in Riyadh, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the strategic partners driving this new era of luxury travel. “The launch of this direct route from Milan marks a defining moment for Red Sea Global and our destinations. It not only strengthens our connection with Europe, but also reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering extraordinary, luxury experiences. Together with our partners at beOnd, we are opening a new gateway to the Saudi Red Sea coast, ushering in the next chapter of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 journey,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. RSI, operated by daa International, is the gateway to The Red Sea and AMAALA destinations, developed with sustainability at its core. Developed by RSG, the airport and destinations are the cornerstone of the Kingdom’s ambition to attract 150 million visitors by 2030 (updated from an original target of 100M). They are also supporting the Kingdom’s vision to increase tourism’s contribution to GDP, which has already shot from 3% to 7% since the launch of Vision 2030. Tero Taskila, CEO and Chairman of beOnd, stated: “We’re proud to be the first airline …

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) announced that Phase 1 of the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) expansion of AED 10 billion is set to deliver 140,000 square metres of event space and is in its final stages and on track for completion, signalling readiness to welcome world-leading mega exhibitions from early 2026.  This includes 64,000 square metres of new exhibition halls and 30,000 square metres of flexible pavilion space, integrated with the existing complex to support up to 50,000 visitors per day. Set to host two of the most influential global events, Gulfood Global and the World Health Expo (formerly Arab Health), this milestone underscores DWTC’s continued commitment and investment in expanding Dubai’s events capacity and infrastructure. DEC is on course to become the largest purpose-built indoor exhibitions and events venue in the region by 2031, strengthening Dubai’s ability to meet the world’s growing meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) demand. The temporary pavilions, provide additional capacity and flexibility for Gulfood Global and the World Health Expo 2026. These pavilions connect directly to the main halls and central arrival plaza, with outdoor F&B terraces and activation zones enhancing the overall visitor experience. Convenient pedestrian access links the pavilions to Expo City’s Al Wasl and the Expo 2020 Metro Station. Following the conclusion of the Q1 2026 mega events, the pavilion areas will transition back into construction for the next phase of expansion. Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President at Dubai World Trade Centre, said: “The expansion of Dubai Exhibition Centre represents Dubai’s proven capability to deliver large-scale international events with precision, excellence, and impact. Readiness of the expanded venue, in record time, reflects the seamless collaboration between government entities and city partners, from infrastructure …

Valor Hospitality Partners and King Khalid Tourism & Hospitality Campus University have signed a cooperation agreement designed to develop talent and strengthen hospitality capabilities across the Aseer region. This partnership goes beyond academic collaboration; it represents a shared investment in empowering Saudi youth and supporting the Kingdom’s tourism transformation under Vision 2030. Rooted in the cultural richness of Abha and the broader Aseer community, the partnership bridges education and industry through structured internships, training programmes, applied learning, mentorship, guest lectures, research collaboration, and defined employment pathways and create a career for the Saudi nationals. The focus is to equip Saudi students not only with operational skills, but with the confidence, leadership mindset, and cultural authenticity needed to shape the future of Saudi hospitality and the rest of the world. Valor Hospitality brings to the Kingdom its globally established fully integrated management and operations solution and its distinctive philosophy, “A Whole World of Local,” which blends international standards with local identity to create meaningful guest experiences and unlock long-term value for communities and investors. Julien Bergue, Co-Founder and Managing Partner – Middle East, Africa & Asia at Valor Hospitality Partners, said: “This partnership goes to the heart of who we are. We are not only operators, but we are also enablers of growth. By working alongside King Khalid tourism & hospitality University, we are supporting and empowering a new generation of Saudi hospitality professionals who carry both world-class training and the warmth of authentic Saudi and middle eastern hospitality. The Kingdom’s tourism future will be shaped by its people, and we are proud to contribute to that journey.” Jana Bader, Country Head of Business Development (KSA) and Regional Director of PR & …

The Forum will be held on 19 November 2025 under the theme “New Waves of Tourism Spectrum”, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, the Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. This year’s forum will bring together senior government officials, global experts, and leaders in the tourism, travel, and technology sectors to discuss key issues and innovative solutions shaping the future of tourism. The event is organized in strategic partnership with the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). This year’s forum will focus on the pivotal role of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in transforming the tourism sector, while striking a balance between leveraging these technologies and preserving authenticity in innovation. Attendees will gain valuable insights from leading experts worldwide on the impact of digital platforms on consumer behavior and the importance of data-driven decision-making in enhancing visitor and traveler experiences. The sessions will also feature case studies and research highlighting how AI technologies can improve visitor services. Additionally, discussions will emphasize the importance of investing in strategic partnerships between government entities, private sector organizations, and technology companies to foster innovation and ensure sustainable tourism practices that support the sector’s growth. The forum will also explore the importance of investing in tourism innovation and its role in supporting the growth and expansion of startups. Leading experts will share their perspectives on the challenges faced by startups in the tourism and travel sector, as well as opportunities to drive innovation and achieve success. Discussions will focus on key factors that startups need to expand, including access to funding and support, building strategic partnerships, and leveraging modern technologies. The forum will also highlight the …

As Saudi Arabia advances its Vision 2030 agenda, the first WTM Spotlight in Saudi Arabia will convene global travel leaders in Riyadh from 29 September to 1 October 2026. The event will unite over 450 exhibitors, 6,500 regional and international visitors, and 150 international hosted buyers, serving as a catalyst for partnerships, innovation, and investment. It will offer a platform for industry leaders to focus on inbound and outbound travel conversations by exploring the future of Saudi Arabia’s tourism, including mobility, hospitality, technology, sustainability, and visitor experiences. The landmark event will connect international and Saudi travel communities to explore the Kingdom’s rapidly expanding inbound and outbound tourism markets. Set against the backdrop of the Kingdom’s ambitious tourism targets, which include a 10% GDP contribution from tourism by 2030, the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh will take place at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Convention Centre (RFECC). Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is growing rapidly, driven by significant government investment and a national diversification strategy. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasts that the sector will contribute more than US$119 billion to the national economy in 2025, accounting for over 10% of GDP and supporting 2.7 million jobs. According to the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Saudi Arabia recorded the world’s highest growth in international tourism spending during the first quarter of 2025, reflecting the country’s success in attracting new visitors and investment. The Ministry of Tourism recently announced record-breaking results for the “Saudi Summer” 2025 programme, which attracted more than 32 million domestic and international visitors, representing a 26% increase compared with summer 2024. Tourist expenditure during the period reached SAR 53.2 billion (US$14.2 billion), marking a 15% year-on-year growth. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, …

Mantis – Accor’s conservation-focused hospitality brand – announced the signing of Basiqat by Mantis, an eco-luxury resort in Al Uyaynah, 40 minutes from central Riyadh, developed by design&build in partnership with GIB Capital and the Tourism Development Fund (TDF). The hotel development, Basiqat by Mantis, will comprise two distinct sites, with the entire complex scheduled to open at the end of 2026. It will feature a total of 218 keys, including 90 suites, 66 villas, 10 Zad Palace Suites, and 52 desert tents. The amenities will include thoughtfully designed dining venues, landscaped gardens, a full hydro spa with separate male and female facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, beauty salons, a yoga pavilion and a health café. The development will also include a souk, a dedicated kids club and event and conference spaces, offering a combination of luxury and cultural immersion for families, travellers and corporate guests alike. Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 reforms, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to the world, transforming into a must-visit destination for luxury seekers and culture enthusiasts. Driving this transformation, pioneering hospitality brands such as Mantis are turning ambition into reality offering guests immersive encounters with Saudi Arabia’s landscapes, culture, and heritage while setting new benchmarks for sustainable and experiential adventure. True to Mantis’ philosophy of harmony between Man and Nature, Basiqat will champion sustainable, cultural and authentic connections with the environment. “The signing of Basiqat by Mantis marks an exciting milestone in our journey across the GCC,” said Craig Erasmus, CEO, Mantis Collection. “This project embodies our philosophy of responsible luxury, expressed through design and experiences that celebrate Saudi Arabia’s rich culture and heritage. Basiqat by Mantis …