Oman Air has set a new benchmark in its journey towards becoming a digital-first organization, achieving a 91% direct channel share in Oman during September. With nearly all flight bookings originating from its hub made directly though Oman Air’s own touchpoints including the website and mobile app, it’s a milestone that sets the airline apart from its global peers. By encouraging customers to book directly, Oman Air can offer a more personalized and seamless booking experience, and the lowest available fares, while reducing distribution costs – creating benefits for both the airline and its guests. As part of a major commercial transformation, the airline has significantly increased direct channel sales across its network from 25% in 2024 to over 65% in 2025. The result highlights the growing appeal of the airline’s online platforms and the success of its enhanced user experience and digital marketing initiatives. During a recent promotional campaign, Oman Air recorded almost 15,000 website visits within a 30-minute period, the highest traffic volume ever recorded by the company. “Reaching 91% direct channel share is more than a technological milestone, it reflects how our guests are embracing a more connected travel experience, and how we as an airline are able to meet that demand,” said Mike Rutter, Oman Air’s Chief Commercial Officer. “While digitalisation is an ongoing journey, less than two years ago Oman Air was well behind its peers, and these results show how far we’ve come in a short time. Our focus now is on building smarter systems and capabilities that enhance efficiency and deliver an even more seamless, connected guest experience across every touchpoint.” Another recent digital milestone for the airline was the launch of Oman Air …

The Jazan Municipality is actively implementing various development and recreational projects in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These include the maintenance and rehabilitation of 556 municipal and tourism facilities, encompassing 16 waterfronts, 235 public parks, 115 walkways, and 190 sports grounds. As Saudi Arabia journeys towards its Vision 2030, these efforts aim to showcase the region’s natural beauty while enhancing its appeal to tourists. The municipality emphasized that these projects are designed to create modern recreational spaces that meet the needs and aspirations of both residents and visitors, support tourism growth, and improve the urban environment, aligning with the objectives of the Quality of Life Program, a key initiative under Saudi Vision 2030 according to SPA. Jazan Region boasts a unique natural landscape, stretching from its serene coastlines to lush mountain peaks, making it a vibrant destination rich in tourism and development potential.

The Middle East is set to record one of the strongest tourism growth rates globally, with inbound travel projected to rise by around 40% by 2030 compared to 2019 levels, according to new data from Tourism Economics presented at ITB Asia 2025. While Asia-Pacific (APAC) is leading the global tourism recovery, the report shows that the Middle East will outpace most other regions after 2027, reflecting its growing role as a global travel hub. Strong air connectivity, large-scale tourism investments, and new visitor infrastructure in destinations such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are driving sustained momentum. Tourism Economics projects that global inbound volumes will surpass 2019 levels by 2026, with APAC’s share of global visits climbing to 49% by 2030. As outbound travel from China fully recovers by 2027 and India’s outbound market expands even faster, the Middle East is expected to capture a rising share of long-haul arrivals, particularly from Asia.  Despite global economic uncertainty, the region’s tourism resilience and diversification efforts are expected to underpin long-term growth. The study concludes that by 2030, the Middle East will solidify its position as a critical connector between Asia and Europe — and a key driver of global tourism expansion.

Jazeera Airways has partnered with travel technology provider Amadeus to deploy Amadeus Segment Revenue Management Flex (Amadeus SRM Flex) which connects to Navitaire New Skies via Navitaire Revenue Management Services (RMIS). This solution introduces advanced forecasting, intuitive user interfaces and experience, as well as origin and destination visualization capabilities to unlock new revenue streams and elevate the passenger experience. Paul Carroll, Chief Commercial Officer, Jazeera Airways, commented: “At Jazeera, we are working to redefine the passenger experience through digital innovation. The adoption of Amadeus SRM Flex is a transformative step in this process, empowering us to respond faster to market shifts, optimize our network with precision, and unlock greater value.” Amadeus SRM Flex will see Kuwait-based Jazeera transform from a route-based revenue management approach to a network-focused strategy, aligned with an evolving hub-and-spoke model. The solution can automate routine tasks to boost efficiency and attract new revenue opportunities. With interactive visualizations and advanced data discovery tools, Jazeera can also gain a deeper understanding of traveler preferences, while pattern recognition and real-time data streaming transform raw information into actionable intelligence. Chris Anthony, Vice President, Strategy & Transversal, Amadeus, said: “We are proud to partner with Jazeera Airways as the carrier continues to grow its position in the Middle East. By combining Amadeus’ expertise in revenue optimization with its global technology leadership, Jazeera is well-positioned to enhance competitiveness and achieve sustainable revenue growth.” Founded in 2004, Jazeera Airways is a leading low-cost carrier based in Kuwait, serving over five million passengers across a network of more than 60 destinations in the Middle East, Central and South Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Etihad Airways is strengthening its Southeast Asia network with the addition of Krabi to its Thailand destinations, complementing existing flights to Bangkok and Phuket, celebrating four new routes in one week, including Sumatra (Medan, Indonesia), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), and Addis Ababa (Ethiopia). The new route highlights the airline’s commitment to connecting travellers with key leisure and business hubs across the region, while enhancing global connectivity through its Abu Dhabi hub. CEO Antonoaldo Neves said, “By launching four new routes in four countries in one week, we are connecting people, cultures, and economies, while supporting trade and logistics growth across our network. This expansion positions Etihad as a key enabler of regional connectivity and economic exchange.” Krabi marks Etihad’s 11th new destination this year, bringing its global network to 86 destinations, with eight additional routes planned in the next two months. The launches are operated by Etihad’s new Airbus A321LR, offering First Suites, lie-flat Business, and next-generation Economy cabins, combining passenger comfort with operational efficiency. Beyond enhancing travel options, these routes strengthen trade and logistics flows between Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, supporting regional supply chains and facilitating cargo movement alongside passenger services. Etihad’s modern fleet enables rapid network expansion, providing scalable capacity to underserved markets while maintaining schedule reliability. With these additions, Etihad continues its trajectory toward 125 destinations by 2030, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s strategic role in global trade and travel.

Saudi entrepreneur Mohammed Khalid A. Sabbagh announced plans to open a new Ramada by Wyndham hotel in Madinah, one of the world’s most revered destinations for Muslim travellers. Developed in collaboration with Wyndham Hotels C Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company, the upcoming Ramada by Wyndham Madinah will feature 77 well- appointed guest rooms and is strategically located in the Al Jamawat area on Al Salam Road, just 5 km from the Holy Mosque. The hotel will serve the growing number of domestic and international pilgrims visiting Madinah each year, offering convenience, comfort, and trusted hospitality under the Ramada by Wyndham brand. Once operational, the hotel will include modern guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, a fully equipped gym, and contemporary interiors designed to provide a welcoming and reliable stay experience for both leisure and religious travellers. Mohammed Khalid A. Sabbagh, Owner of Ramada by Wyndham Madinah, said: “It is an honour to bring the renowned Ramada by Wyndham brand to the holy city of Madinah. This project represents my personal commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and contributing to the Kingdom’s rapidly growing tourism and hospitality sector. We look forward to welcoming guests from around the world to experience warm Saudi hospitality combined with the international standards that the Ramada by Wyndham name represents.” Mohammad Haj Hassan, Country Director – KSA, Wyndham Hotels s Resorts, added: “We are delighted to collaborate with Mr. Sabbagh on this exciting development in Madinah, a city of deep spiritual and cultural importance. This partnership underscores Wyndham’s commitment to expanding our presence across Saudi Arabia and supporting the Kingdom’s ambition to become one of the world’s leading tourism destinations.” Saudi Arabia is one of …

“The Middle East remains a strategic growth market for ITB Asia, with strong participation from the Oman Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and growing interest from other key stakeholders across the region. Buyers from the Middle East are especially important as they bridge Asia-Pacific suppliers with the region’s fast- rising demand for MICE, luxury, and wellness travel. As the Middle East invests heavily in tourism and experiential offerings, ITB Asia provides a vital platform for cross-regional partnerships and high-value business opportunities that benefit both markets,” shared Darren Seah, Executive Director of Messe Berlin Asia Pacific and organiser of ITB Asia, MICE Show Asia, and Travel Tech Asia with media partner TravTalkME. “For Middle Eastern participants, ITB Asia is the gateway to the fast-growing Asia- Pacific market. The show connects them directly with high-quality buyers and destinations that align with the region’s expanding interests in wellness, medical, adventure, and experiential travel. With stronger air connectivity and rising two- way travel flows, ITB Asia provides an ideal platform for tourism boards, airlines, and operators to build partnerships, promote new offerings, and tap into Asia’s dynamic traveller base.” This year marks a major milestone in ITB Asia’s 17-year history. For the first time, the show will occupy five halls across two levels at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre — our largest footprint to date. We’re also welcoming over 1,500 buyers, the highest participation in ITB Asia’s history, reflecting the event’s growing scale and influence in the global travel industry. Beyond size, ITB Asia 2025 stands out for its diversity and international reach, with first-time participants from Azerbaijan, Lithuania, Hungary, Tamil Nadu, Danang, and the Kaohsiung City Government. A key new feature is the …

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) showcased the Saudi Red Sea’s luxury experiences, yachting readiness, and investment opportunities as the next frontier in superyachting at the Monaco Yacht Show. With state-of-the-art marinas, luxury yacht clubs, and a world-class, growing coastal infrastructure, the Saudi Red Sea is emerging as the next must-visit destination for superyachts and luxury maritime experiences. Commenting at the Monaco Yacht Show, Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, said: “With $22.4 billion already committed, the Saudi Red Sea is backed by unprecedented investment and a clear ambition to set new standards in luxury and hospitality. Boasting over 1,800 KM of pristine coastline, we are ready to welcome the global yachting community with world-class infrastructure, pristine cruising grounds, and ultra-luxury experiences. The Monaco Yacht Show has been an excellent platform to highlight the Saudi Red Sea as the next frontier for superyachting – from the Med to the Red – and we look forward to welcoming more captains, crews, and visitors to our shores.” By 2030, the Saudi Red Sea will offer 80 hotels across The Red Sea and AMAALA destinations, alongside the exclusive Thuwal Private Retreat. This year, new openings on Shura Island include the SLS, EDITION, and InterContinental resorts, all set to welcome guests in the coming weeks and mark a new era of luxury. Additionally, Shura Links, an 18-hole, par-72 championship course that hugs the coastline, recently opening this September, underscoring the Saudi Red Sea’s emergence as a premier destination for luxury experiences. At its 300 sqm pavilion, STA demonstrated Saudi’s advanced yachting infrastructure, including purpose-built facilities and fully serviced marinas designed for smooth operations and effortless arrivals. With streamlined entry, flexible routing, and luxury …

Oman’s tourism activity offerings highlight the country’s strongest assets: a rich local cultural heritage and an extraordinary variety of landscapes, as shown by an analysis carried out by Mabrian, the global travel intelligence and tourism advisory partner. The study indicates that cultural experiences remain a central pillar of the offer, yet nature and active lifestyle activities together now surpass culture as the main source of discovery and enjoyment for travellers exploring the Sultanate. Mabrian, part of The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group, examined supply and demand trends for experiences marketed through major online activity platforms across Oman’s 8 regions, using data from August and September 2025. “Our data intelligence shows clear opportunities to broaden Oman’s tourism offer around experiences beyond its cultural core, a particular yet relevant element of its tourism value proposition. Strengthening nature and active experiences in underrepresented regions, and making more family-oriented products available online, can help the country reach new segments and extend visitor stays,” says Sonia Huerta, Director of Insights & Tourism Advisory at Mabrian, and supervisor for this in-depth analysis. Mabrian’s data reveals that 37% of all activities and experiences available in Oman are concentrated in cultural tourism, linked to local heritage and monuments. This is followed by nature (28%) and active tourism (17%), which combined account for 45% of total activities offerings in the Sultanate. In terms of sub-products, the top three categories are local heritage, natural landscapes, and active tourism by the sea. Family-oriented activities still hold a limited share of the total portfolio, suggesting an opportunity to expand and reinforce segmented offerings specialised in this segment ,or better highlight existing options suitable for families with children of different ages. In terms …

Turkish Airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation and revise Codeshare Agreement with a broadened scope. The MoU establishes a framework for enriched cooperation, including an expanded codeshare agreement. In addition to increased connectivity, the two carriers will explore joint initiatives in cargo interline services, aircraft leasing, catering, lounge access, maintenance and ground handling operations. Turkish Airlines and Air Algérie also plan to cooperate on environmental projects, sustainability initiatives, and training programs. The partnership aims to support business growth while fostering cultural, social, and economic exchange between Türkiye and Algeria. Agreements were signed by the Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi and Air Algérie CEO Hamza Benhamouda at Air Algérie’s Headquarters in Algiers with senior executives from both airlines in attendance. Commenting on the agreement, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi stated: “Our continuing partnership with Air Algérie reflects our commitment to long-term, sustainable collaboration. This agreement marks a key step in deepening ties between both airlines. As the airline flying to more countries than any other, we remain committed to expanding cooperation across multiple areas to provide greater benefits and options for our guests. We are confident this partnership will enrich cultural and economic connections between Türkiye and Algeria and drive mutual growth.” Air Algérie SpA CEO Hamza Benhamouda said: “We are honored to welcome the Turkish Airlines delegation to our headquarters in Algiers, as we continue to strengthen the ties between our two airlines and our two coutries. We are very pleased with this new milestone in our strategic partnership with Turkish Airlines. This comprehensive agreement, covering multiple areas of cooperation and the exchange of expertise, will undoubtedly bring mutual benefits to both our companies and to our …