Tourism Minister Haim Katz: “Improvement of infrastructure and beautification upgrades the tourist experience and encourages returning tourism. I have asked the ministry to prepare a directive for the support budget for 2023, that will place an emphasis on budgetary efficiency alongside maximizing the tourism potential.” Ministry of Tourism Director-General Dani Shahar: “We are in the midst of preparing the tourism infrastructure in Israel to welcome  tourists, following the recovery from the pandemic. We carefully considered the many applications received, and we chose those which would bring the greatest value to tourism.” The ministry’s Development Budget Committee approved the support budget for 2022 that will assist in the establishment of dozens of projects in local authorities: parking lots, promenades, bridges, sound and light shows, renovating markets and public spaces, unique lighting, trails, parks, observation points and more. As part of the directive for support in developing public tourism infrastructure, the Israel Ministry of Tourism received in 2022 approximately 210 applications from local authorities for assistance in establishing projects in their area, of which approximately 160 applications met the threshold conditions. The budget available for the construction of tourism infrastructure in 2022 stood at about NIS 340 million. It should be noted that the cost of implementing all the projects is about NIS 700 million, of which the Israel Ministry of Tourism contributed about NIS 410 million (NIS 340 million from the 2022 budget and the remainder from previous years). In recent months, the projects were discussed in the ministry’s Development Budget committee, and were investigated in accordance with the project standard rating: Contribution to incoming tourism (35%) Project maintenance capability (15%) Matches government and ministry policy (15%) Contribution to the economic …

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi announced the launch of its new direct route connecting the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi to Kolkata city in India. The new flights between Abu Dhabi International Airport and Kolkata Airport will operate three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, starting from March 15, 2023. Schedule to Kolkata, effective March 15, 2023 (all times local): Flight Departure Time Arrival Time Aircraft Frequency 3L 168 Abu Dhabi 14:25 Kolkata 20:20 Airbus 320 Monday/Wednesday/Saturday 3L 169 Kolkata 21:05 Abu Dhabi 01:05 Airbus 320 Monday/Wednesday/Saturday Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia, said: “We are delighted to launch this new route, offering our customers an even wider choice of destinations in India. Kolkata is a vibrant city, and this new service will enable us to provide our customers base with more convenient and affordable opportunities for business, leisure, and cultural exchange between the two countries. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi remains committed to provide customers a unique travel experience and value driven products. We look forward to welcoming our passengers on board our flights”. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi continues to cater to its customers’ needs through expanding its route network to reach a total of 28 destinations directly from Abu Dhabi International Airport while the new service to Kolkata marks the 7th destination in India after Cochin, Calicut, Trivandrum, Chennai, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. Air Arabia operates a fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 neo-LR aircraft, the most modern and best-selling single aisle aircraft in the world. The cabin configuration across Air Arabia’s fleet provides added comfort with one of the most generous seat-pitch of any economy cabin. The aircraft is also equipped with ‘SkyTime’, a free in-flight …

Jazeera Airways, continuing robust growth, announced record net profits of KD20.1 million for the year 2022, an increase of 183.6% over 2021. Operating revenues for 2022 increased to KD182.116 million, up 126.5%, and operating profit increased by 148.4% to KD26.8 million. With the resumption of operations at the Kuwait International Airport (KIA), the airline built on its quick return to profitability in the second half of 2021. During 2022, Jazeera also exceeded 2019 performance; which was the last comparable full year of unrestricted operations, by 30%. While overall passenger traffic at the airport dropped by 26% compared to 2019, Jazeera’s traffic grew by 19% during the same period. Passenger numbers increased by 247.5% to an unprecedented 3.6 million, compared to the last year. Load factor increased by 10.2% to 77.01, which offset a decline in yield, the average fare paid per passenger, by 35.1% to KD47.96. Marwan Boodai, Jazeera Airways Chairman, commented: “We are extremely proud to report record annual net profits for the year 2022, the highest in the history of Jazeera Airways. In the last year, high fuel prices added approximately KD9 million to our costs. Our financial performance despite this additional cost burden testifies to the aggressive cost focus across the organization. The fact that we carried 3.6 million passengers in 2022, up from 2.4 million passengers in 2019, shows the strong acceptance of our business model and growing service by our customers. With our growing fleet, new upcoming routes and planned enhancements to our operations, 2023 is going to be another exciting year.” In the last quarter of 2022, the airline reported a modest net loss of KD0.7 million, compared to a profit of KD7 million …

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the 12th Sharjah Light Festival, organised by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), kicked off on Wednesday, 8 February 2023 and is set to continue until 18 February, covering 13 locations across the Emirate of Sharjah. The festival launched with an opening ceremony the Authority organised at University City Hall in Sharjah, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and His Excellency Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the SCTDA, along with a number of officials from the emirate, representatives of various media outlets in the UAE, and visitors to the event from the UAE and abroad. The opening ceremony included a dazzling light show titled Chasing the Light, a story of finding that flicker of light in the shadows, the silver lining and the efforts we take to keep the flame of curiosity high. This year’s edition of the Sharjah Light Festival presents performances and events in a new format, highlighting the emirate’s unique urban and architectural character, as well as its cultural identity, which have positioned it as an attractive destination for tourists and visitors from around the world. Mesmerising light shows and art displays will adorn buildings and destinations across the Emirate of Sharjah, with seven international artists taking part alongside a group of emerging creative artists. Speaking at the launch event, H.E. Al Midfa asserted that: “Sharjah Light Festival continues on its journey of excellence and innovation, continuously updating its visions and ideas, developing the technologies it relies on, and adapting to new …

Ensuring that France would still be the top of the mind destination, Atout France kicks off the year with a tailor made e-learning programme designed for the travel trade in the Middle East, called “France Connaisseur.” This platform consists of 19 modules which provide content relevant to the travel trade to better understand the destination, think out of the box and design packages and itineraries combined with areas in France that are hitherto unknown. Karim Mekachera – Director Middle East and Turkey – Atout France addressing the travel trade shared that it was important to keep the travel trade updated after the challenging years, hence they conducted various research and compiled a platform tailor made for the region. Mekachera reiterated about the destination France plan for 2030. “The e-learning platform is brand new and today we launched it for the first time in the region. The whole world went through a crisis, but the resilience is there so now we have to update the knowledge of the travel trade professionals on the knowledge about the destination, this is the first reason, secondly, we want to go beyond the traditional destinations and we have to help the travel trade to think outside the box, for this we need to give them the right tools and the right content to design some new itineraries, new packages for their clientele. I think of course, Paris is Paris, the gateway to France, the French Alps for Ski and the French Riviera for the summer season but there are also many other destinations to discover in the country and that is the aim of this e-learning programme.” Zamira Ismatova – Travel Trade Manager Middle East …

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has signed an agreement with the Ministry of Labour to launch the new training for employment project “Najm”. The project, which operates under the #IAmTourism programme, aims to provide a platform for developing highly skilled Omani nationals in the tourism and hospitality sector. It will train 250 job seekers for employment at a newly established start-up company, which will develop and manage tourism-related activities across Oman to stimulate the growth and popularity of the sector. The agreement was signed by HE Sayyid Salim bin Musallam Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour for Human Resources Development and the CEO of OMRAN Group, Hashil bin Obaid al Mahrouqi, with senior officials from both parties in attendance. As part of the agreement, 250 job opportunities have been announced and applications are currently being accepted from prospective Omani candidates across Oman. To be eligible, relevant candidates profiles have to meet the required criteria being announced. The selection process will involve a personal interview and different ability tests. After the selection, 250 high-calibre Omani nationals with an entrepreneurial mindset will be shortlisted. These candidates will undergo six months of intensive theoretical and practical training developed in partnership with recognised and specialised institutes in the country. Upon completion of the training and certification, each of the 250 candidates will be offered full-time employment with a newly established OMRAN Group start-up. “This project will improve the labour market and its outcomes by creating new employment opportunities. The tourism industry in the country is still growing and requires the involvement of national competencies, both in terms of tour guides and hospitality.” He added, “The tourism sector is crucial and requires …

Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, Madinat Jumeirah’s boutique beachfront retreat, reveals the extensive refurbishment of its rooms, suites, ballrooms and Amal Club Lounge. The new look and enhanced ambience was created with discerning travellers in mind. Tasteful yet striking, the aesthetic has been skillfully crafted to ensure cohesiveness with the property’s traditional Arabesque exteriors. Large windows mean rooms are bathed in natural light and cooled by a fresh sea breeze, while a neutral colour palette and mesmerising views of the beach, combined with Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts’ signature amenities and bedding, create a sense of tranquillity. Occasional pops of colour enliven the soothing environment. Jaime Simpson, General Manager of Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, says: “In collaboration with La Bottega, we have re-energised our beloved hotel, being mindful not to erase any of the property’s warmth and heritage. For our returning guests, it is still the much-loved boutique beachfront resort that is their familiar home away from home, which has now been completely refurbished. We are excited to see their reaction to the hard work and investment we have put into the hotel. We also welcome a new generation of Jumeirah Mina A’Salam guests to experience our signature dining experiences and renowned service, as we strive to deliver beyond expectations.” Sahar Al Yaseer, founder of La Bottega by Intice, says: “It was an honour to work with Jumeirah Mina A’Salam on the refurbishment of its rooms and suites. The idea behind the new contemporary interiors was to reflect a more timeless, luxurious and tranquil atmosphere synonymous with the Jumeirah brand. The symmetrical balance achieved by the interiors’ neutral tones flows seamlessly and positively impacts guests’ wellbeing, which is something we always strive for in …

Sharjah Airport experienced a remarkable growth in the previous year achieving the Authority’s primary objectives of revamping the Emirate’s tourism sector as well as elevating the airport’s status as one of the top five airports in the region. Passenger traffic witnessed a growth rate of 84.73 per cent, increasing the numbers to nearly 13 million passengers in 2022, as opposed to 7 million passengers in 2021. Meanwhile, aircraft movement experienced an increase of 51.69 per cent to 87,495 flights in 2022, as compared to 57,679 by the end of 2021. Moreover, around 170,544 tonnes of freight were handled through the Sharjah Airport in 2022, indicating an increase of 21.20 percent from around 140,717 tonnes in 2021. His Excellency Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, said: “The growth and achievements recorded in the previous year reflects our commitment to meeting evolving passenger expectations through our enhanced customer services. This marks a significant step in our journey towards excellence and leadership, which is in line with the visions and aspirations of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah and are as a result of the close supervision of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Executive Council. The remarkable results resonate our strategic goals of reviving the travel industry in the Emirate of Sharjah, together with our ambitions to offer elevated levels of services. To satisfy the rising demand of the travel and air freight sectors, we further aim at raising our investments in expanding the airport’s capacity and enhancing the network of tourism …

Continuing its efforts to boost local tourism, Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) signed an agreement with the Office of the Al Buraimi Governor to develop several tourism projects at prominent destinations across the governorate. The agreement was signed by Sayyid Dr Hamad bin Ahmed Al Busaidi, the Governor of Al Buraimi, and Eng Mohammed bin Salim Al Busaidi, Chairman of OMRAN Group Board of Directors, with senior officials from both parties in attendance. The agreement is part of OMRAN Group’s efforts to enhance partnerships with various stakeholders and achieve its tourism development objectives in the Sultanate. Under the agreement, OMRAN Group will provide technical support and oversee operations for the Al Buraimi Gate and Al Abila Park. The first project, Al Buraimi Gate, will serve as a platform for interaction between visitors and sub-activities through interactive digital panels and a display screen. The screen will display unique material and showcase the cultural history of the Governorate of Buraimi.Al Ubila Park will cover an area of over 181,000 square meters. The project aims to fulfil the desires of tourists, visitors, and residents of the Sultanate, showcasing the region’s rich beauty and creating a fun and relaxing recreational area for the community. Speaking on the agreement, Sayyid Dr Hamad bin Ahmed Al Busaidi said: “We are pleased to partner with OMRAN Group and establish significant projects that stimulate tourism growth in the governorate. These projects will enrich the tourism facilities and services for visitors. Recently, the Governorate of Buraimi implemented several development projects designed to attract visitors from across the Sultanate and advance economic growth in both the governorate and the Sultanate. These efforts will create many business opportunities for local …

Moscow Domodedovo Airport’s (DME) welcomed Jazeera Airways’ inaugural flight from Kuwait International Airport. Jazeera Airways, Kuwait’s leading low cost airline began operating this new route to offer passengers from Moscow connectivity to the Middle East region and beyond. Andrey Pavlov, Director of Domodedovo Airport said: “It is a great honor for us to receive a new carrier that will operate a unique route for the Moscow air hub, connecting the capitals of the two countries — Moscow and Kuwait City. We believe that our cooperation with Jazeera Airways will also actively contribute to strengthening relations between the two countries.” Kuwait, based in the Middle East, is one of the most developed countries in the world, offering a mix of modernity and old world charm. Domodedovo Airport’s passengers will enjoy direct connectivity to Kuwait and will also have access to Jazeera’s wide network of 55+ destinations across the Middle East, Central & South Asia, North Africa and Europe. Bharathan Ravindran, Vice President – Sales for Jazeera Airways said: “We are excited to be the first airline to launch the Kuwait – Moscow route in partnership with the Moscow Domodedovo Airport. We see a high demand for flights from Moscow for leisure travel as well as religious pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. Kuwait is ideally located to offer this connectivity. We are also looking forward to increasing the frequency of flights in the coming year to meet the demand for this route.” Jazeera Airways operates flights from Moscow Domodedovo Airport, one of the busiest airports in Russia, to Kuwait four times a week; on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.