The Ministry of Tourism has released its 2024 Annual Statistical Report on the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia, highlighting key indicators of tourism activity and underlining the sector’s continued growth following the significant progress recorded in 2023. His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, stated that the strong performance reflected in the 2024 report was achieved with the guidance and support of the Kingdom’s leadership. His Excellency added that tourism has become a key enabler of Saudi Vision 2030, with the report showcasing the sector’s accelerated growth driven by the efforts of the Ministry and all stakeholders of Saudi Arabia’s tourism ecosystem. According to the report, the Kingdom welcomed around 116 million domestic and inbound tourists in 2024, a 6% increase compared with 2023. Total tourism spending—for domestic and inbound tourism—reached approximately SAR 284 billion, reflecting 11% growth year-on-year. The Ministry noted that Saudi Arabia achieved its highest-ever number of inbound tourists, receiving about 30 million inbound tourists in 2024, marking an 8% rise versus 2023. Inbound tourism spending in 2024 totaled SAR 168.5 billion, up 19% from 2023. Domestic tourism also experienced solid growth with 86.2 million domestic tourists in 2024, marking a 5% increase compared with 2023. Moreover, domestic tourism spending reached SAR 115.3 billion in 2024.

The Ascott Limited announced the opening of Citadines Maslak Istanbul, marking a bold stride in the group’s ongoing expansion in the Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye region. With 148 serviced units ranging from sleek studios to spacious four-bedroom apartments, the property is designed for short- and long-stay guests seeking flexibility without compromise. Strategically located in Istanbul’s bustling Maslak district, home to multinational headquarters, global financial institutions, and vibrant cultural venues, the new property exemplifies the Citadines brand promise of offering the freedom to live and work with flexibility and comfort. This launch further accelerates Citadines’ rapid ascent as Ascott’s fastest-growing brand, with around 200 properties both operating and in the pipeline across over 30 countries to date. Set against the backdrop of Istanbul’s captivating blend of heritage and modernity, Citadines Maslak Istanbul offers guests a stylish and private retreat amid the city’s dynamic energy. Whether travelling for business or leisure, guests are perfectly positioned at the epicentre of Istanbul’s key commercial, cultural, and recreational zones. Multinational corporations such as Ericsson, Cisco, and Ford, as well as leading educational institutions like Nisantasi University and Istanbul Technical University, are located nearby, making it ideal for corporate travellers and visiting academics alike. Holidaymakers can explore Istinye Mall, Emirgan Park, Rumeli Fortress, and Bebek Sahili, all within a 30-minute drive. The property is also easily accessible, located just 40 minutes from Istanbul International Airport. Each residence offers separate living and dining areas, fully equipped kitchenettes, and modern amenities tailored to the needs of urban explorers. On-site facilities include a gymnasium and sauna, business centre, guest lounge, meeting room, and a breakfast lounge and restaurant, catering to the active and sophisticated lifestyles of today’s travellers. …

Qatar Airways resumes operations today in Malta with four non-stop flights a week between Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Malta International Airport (MLA). The latest addition to the airline’s network in Europe affirms its commitment to maintaining global connectivity. Malta is home to Valletta, its capital city declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Mdina, its old capital with more than 4,000 years of history. With 300 days of sun, the country invites travellers to explore its sun-drenched coasts, rich history, and cultural experiences. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, said: “Qatar Airways remains at the forefront of supporting global connectivity with its resumption of operations in Malta. As the only airline in the Middle East with non-stop services to and from Malta, we deliver convenient travel experiences to our passengers who seek to enjoy the vibrant nature of Malta and its landscape. We welcome global travellers to travel seamlessly and conveniently with the World’s Best Airline, through its home and hub, the award-winning Hamad International Airport.” Malta International Airport CEO, Mr. Alan Borg, said: “The return of Qatar Airways as one of our airline partners is a welcome addition to our schedule, contributing to our efforts to expand our connectivity. A testament to our industry’s resilience, we remain committed to facilitating the airline in increasing its operational growth in the region.” Malta Tourism Authority CEO, Mr. Carlo Micallef, said: “We welcome the resumption of the Qatar Airways direct service between Doha and Malta. Qatar Airways’ return signifies a strong recognition of Malta’s tourism potential. The new schedule will strengthen Malta’s connectivity with a variety of attractive and lucrative tourism source markets, and the Malta Tourism Authority remains fully …

Turkish Airlines and airBaltic expanded their existing codeshare agreement, adding several new destinations to their shared network. Under the expanded agreement, Turkish Airlines will place its flight code on select airBaltic-operated flights from Riga to Turku (TKU) and Tampere (TMP) in Finland, as well as Palanga (PLQ) in Lithuania. In return, airBaltic will be allowed to place its flight code on Turkish Airlines-operated routes from Istanbul to the following destinations: Tbilisi (TBS), Batumi (BUS), Ashgabat (ASB), Baku (GYD), Dushanbe (DYU), and Bishkek (FRU). These new routes will be launched following the completion of regulatory approvals. Since 2023, the two airlines have jointly operated flights between Istanbul and Riga under a codeshare arrangement. This latest expansion builds on that foundation, allowing both carriers to tap into new markets, broaden their route networks, and enhance connectivity for their passengers. The strengthened collaboration marks another step in extending the global reach of both airlines. Commenting on the expansion, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi, stated: “We are pleased to further strengthen our partnership with airBaltic. This expanded codeshare agreement reflects our commitment to offering more travel options and improved connectivity for our passengers. As the airline flying to more countries than any other, we will continue bridging continents and cultures through strategic collaborations and a growing network.” Pauls Cālītis, Interim CEO and COO of airBaltic also commented: “We are glad to take the next step in our partnership with Turkish Airlines. This collaboration provides even more travel opportunities for Baltic passengers through Turkish Airlines’ extensive global network. At the same time, travellers from Türkiye can now enjoy greater access to airBaltic’s destinations across the Baltics and Northern Europe. We look forward to continuing this …

Emirates’ highly anticipated Airbus A350 is now a regular sight at Muscat International Airport, with the start of regular daily services between Dubai and Muscat. The aircraft operates flight EK 866, which departs Dubai at 2:15 am and arrives in Muscat at 3:30 am. The return leg, EK 867 departs Muscat at 4:40 am and lands in Dubai at 5:55 am, perfectly timed to help customers connect for their flights to destinations in Europe, Americas, Africa and Asia. * The three-class aircraft offers 312 seats with 32 lie-flat seats in Business Class arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, 21 Premium Economy seats in a comfortable 2-3-2 setup, and 259 spacious Economy Class seats in a 3-3-3 layout. Designed to offer customers an enhanced travel experience, all cabins feature higher ceilings and wider aisles. Customers across all classes enjoy the airline’s award-winning and latest in-flight entertainment system, offering a cinematic viewing experience, upgraded cabin lighting, faster connectivity with high-speed Wi-Fi, and improved seat ergonomics for greater comfort on short and medium-haul journeys. The introduction of the Airbus A350 to Muscat highlights Emirates’ ongoing commitment to Oman. Muscat is among the first few cities in the region to receive Emirates’ next-generation A350, joining a growing network that includes destinations like Kuwait, Bahrain, Dammam and Amman as well as other points like Edinburgh, Mumbai, Tunis, Colombo and Ahmedabad. The airline has so far welcomed seven A350s to its fleet and is expected to serve 17 destinations across its global network by the end of this year. To meet the current summer travel demand, Emirates has also layered on two additional weekly flights between Dubai and Muscat, operating flights on Thursdays and Saturdays. Flight EK 862 …

As per the recent survey by The Allianz Partners Travel Index 2025 in the UAE regarding their travel plans, preferences and concerns for the year ahead, reveals that most of the respondents in the United Arab Emirates intend to travel internationally in the next twelve months. While global events and financial pressures continue to shape decisions, safety and peace of mind are emerging as top priorities – alongside a growing appetite for group travel, new destinations and higher holiday budgets. Where surveyed respondents in the UAE are heading: UAE The Index finds that the Middle East and North Africa remain the most popular regions for outbound travel from the UAE, attracting 30% of travelers, followed by the UK and Europe at 26%. Meanwhile, younger travelers under thirty are increasingly drawn to central America and the Caribbean Islands, indicating emerging destination trends among Gen Z and millennial audiences. How often, how long and how much they’ll spend: Respondents in the UAE Plan Multiple Trips, Longer Stays, and Budgets Over USD 3,000 (approx. AED 11000) One third of the surveyed respondents in the UAE plan to travel at least twice this year, with high income earners likely to take up to five or more trips annually. The typical holiday lasts between 9-15 days, with most travelers preferring to travel with family or companions, reinforcing the region’s preference for shared experiences. While budgets are dependent on household income, 34% of travelers plan to spend more than USD 3,000 (approx. AED 11000) on their next holiday. Most of the respondents, take up to three months to plan and book trips, relying on recommendations from family, friends and social media – particularly YouTube, Facebook and …

Emirates has officially launched its new daily service to Shenzhen, marking the airline’s fourth gateway in the Chinese mainland and reinforcing its East Asia growth strategy. Passengers who flew on the inaugural flight from Dubai received special gifts and certificates to commemorate the occasion. Emirates now offers 42 weekly flights to four key cities in the Chinese mainland – Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen – providing passengers and businesses with enhanced connectivity and travel options in and out of Chinese mainland. Operated by a four-class Boeing 777-300ER, Emirates’ flight EK328 departs from Dubai at 1005hrs, arriving in Shenzhen at 2200hrs. The return flight EK329 departs Shenzhen at 2355hrs, landing in Dubai at 0340hrs the next day.* Flights to and from Shenzhen are conveniently timed to enable seamless connectivity to key destinations across Europe, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam – leveraging Emirates’ extensive global network via its Dubai hub. Passengers can also seamlessly connect to Emirates’ points in Kenya, Egypt, South Africa and Saudi Arabia. Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates Airline, said: “We are excited to launch our new daily service to Shenzhen – one of China’s most dynamic and innovative cities. This milestone reflects Emirates’ ongoing commitment to strengthening our presence in the Chinese mainland and supporting the country’s trade and tourism objectives. It is also aligned with the strengthening of China-UAE relations, and a strategic move to seamlessly connect the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s innovation corridor – an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub that aims to attract global innovation resources, through our flights. We would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, Shenzhen Airport Group and our …

According to Visa’s Travel Pulse Eid Al Adha Edition, international travel by KSA residents rose by 25% compared to the same period in 2024. This growth was driven by a strong preference for shorter trips, with 69% of travelers from KSA opting for brief weekend getaways. They also made 21% more purchases abroad and spent 13% more overall this Eid, reflecting a preference to maximize the holidays with quick trips abroad. Travelers from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) took full advantage of this year’s extended Eid Al Adha break, turning the six-day (June 5-10) holiday into an opportunity for cultural exploration, both at home and abroad. While many residents jetted off for short international getaways, the Kingdom also welcomed millions of foreign pilgrims during the Hajj season, driving a steady increase in travel to Saudi Arabia and spending. This Eid, international getaways became an opportunity for many KSA travelers to indulge in retail experiences. Shopping led the way across all major destinations, influencing not just how people spent, but also where they chose to go. • UAE led as the top international destination, welcoming 14% of KSA travelers and accounting for 23% of total international spend. With an average spend of $635 per card, fashion took center stage — seven of the top ten merchants were in the shopping and apparel category. Among the top brands were Dubai Duty Free Stores, Hermes, and Cartier, reflecting both a preference for convenient airport shopping and a strong appetite for luxury. Dining and entertainment were also high on the agenda. • Nine percent (9%) of travelers went to Turkey, making it the second most popular destination. It captured 15% of overall holiday spend …

Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines celebrate the new daily service between Manila and Doha with a ribbon cutting ceremony at Hamad International Airport (DOH). Commemorating the occasion were Philippine Airlines’ President, Mr. Richard Nutall; and Philippine Airlines’ Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez, alongside executive delegates from Qatar Airways Group. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, said: “Qatar Airways is proud to celebrate the start of codeshare flights with Philippine Airlines. This daily service marks the beginning of a strong partnership between our two airlines, paving the way for even closer ties between the Philippines and Qatar for the benefit of both business and leisure travel.” He continued: “We welcome Philippine Airlines to our unrivalled portfolio of airline partnerships which encompasses some of the best airlines in the world. By working closely with Philippine Airlines, we will offer our customers from around the world a seamless travel experience and greater choice for connections to and from the Philippines, through the best hub in the Middle East: Hamad International Airport in Doha.” Philippine Airlines President, Mr. Richard Nuttall, said: “Our strategic partnership with Qatar Airways puts our valued guests in the forefront and enables us to draw from our respective strengths. Together, we can focus clearly on further developing the Philippines-Qatar air travel market while ensuring seamless connections across our respective networks.” “I express my deepest thanks to all the government officials, airport authorities, service partners and other stakeholders whose support is vital for the success of our partnership services. We are truly grateful to be your allies in this worthy endeavor,” he added. The daily nonstop flights will be operated on Philippine Airlines’ long-range …

Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines have signed a frequent flyer partnership agreement to allow loyalty members of either airline to earn and redeem miles across both networks from 1 July 2025. Mark Potter, Managing Director Etihad Guest at Etihad Airways, said, “We are pleased to offer our members even more ways to earn and redeem their Etihad Guest miles, rewarding guests for every extraordinary travel experience. Complimenting Etihad’s launch of flights to Hanoi from November this year, this partnership gives our members access to Vietnam Airlines’ impressive global network, offering members more destinations across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and domestic Vietnam. We look forward to welcoming Lotusmiles members onboard Etihad soon, to experience our signature Emirati hospitality and earn and redeem their miles with us, one adventure at a time.” Nguyen Sy Thanh, Vietnam Airlines Lotusmiles Director, also commented, “We are delighted to partner with Etihad Airways. This collaboration will offer Lotusmiles members greater opportunities to earn and redeem miles across an extensive global network, including destinations in North America and the Middle East. It also ensures a seamless and rewarding travel experience, delivered with world-class service from both airlines. This marks an important milestone in our journey to enhance customer value and reinforce our continued commitment to provide memorable travel experiences. Beyond that, the partnership reflects our dedication to delivering the image of Vietnam and its rich cultural identity closer to the world.” This partnership is a demonstration of the commitment established by both carriers signing a Memorandum of Understanding in October last year and reflects the initial phase of expanded cooperation. The MoU was designed to strengthen ties between the airlines and formalised a commitment to explore …