Etihad Airways launched direct flights connecting Abu Dhabi with Phnom Penh, Cambodia, marking a significant expansion of the airline’s global network. The new service aims to bring travellers closer to the rich cultural heritage and ancient history of Southeast Asia, offering a seamless and comfortable travel experience. The addition of Phnom Penh to Etihad’s route map reflects the airline’s commitment to connecting the UAE with emerging destinations across the region. Passengers can now enjoy direct access to Cambodia’s capital, a city known for its historic temples, vibrant markets, and thriving cultural scene. Etihad has emphasised that the new route has been designed with passenger comfort in mind, promising a smooth journey from departure to arrival. “We are thrilled to welcome travelers on board as we connect Abu Dhabi with Phnom Penh,” said an Etihad spokesperson. “This new route is part of our ongoing strategy to enhance connectivity and make travel easier and more enjoyable for our guests.” The launch comes as global air travel continues to rebound, and Etihad strengthens its position as a leading airline linking the Middle East to Asia. The service is expected to boost tourism and business ties between the UAE and Cambodia

Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is bringing back its spectacular ‘Roof Walk’ experience, inviting guests to step onto the iconic red roof and take in breathtaking panoramic views of Yas Island. There’s truly no better way to elevate your outdoor plans, literally. Perfect for Ferrari enthusiasts, thrill-seekers and families alike, this one-of-a-kind activity offers a guided journey on top of the world’s largest Ferrari logo. Available daily from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm, the ‘Roof Walk’ accommodates up to eight guests per session, ensuring an intimate and unforgettable experience. Please note that timings may vary based on weather conditions, so plan your visit accordingly. Whether guests are celebrating a special milestone, impressing your date, or creating memories with family, this experience promises a unique perspective that will leave everyone talking. Tickets start at AED 85 for park visitors and AED 125 without park access. After conquering the rooftop, don’t miss the rest of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s 43 exhilarating rides and attractions, including the groundbreaking Ferrari-themed Esports arena. With adventure, innovation, and fun for all ages, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the ultimate destination this season.

flyadeal has launched its much-anticipated non-stop daily flights to the Syrian capital, Damascus. With the start of three flights a week from the Saudi port city of Jeddah from 1 October, followed 24 hours later by the first of four weekly services from the capital Riyadh, flyadeal now provides a new daily air bridge between the Kingdom and Syria. flyadeal has been working tirelessly to secure the new operations following the lifting of international sanctions on Syria, which has for years been devasted by civil war. flyadeal management led by Chief Executive Officer Steven Greenway joined airport executives at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah for the launch celebrations. In Damascus, inaugural flight F3 741 from Jeddah was welcomed to a traditional water salute, with celebrations attended by officials including His Excellency Abdullah Al- Horyes, Deputy Ambassador at the Saudi Embassy in Damascus, and Fadi Al-Junidi, Director of Air Transport at the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority. Greenway said: “It’s a momentous occasion to finally launch our Damascus flights from two gateway cities in the Kingdom, long needed to help the many Syrians to travel back to their homeland and reunite with family and friends. “With over two million Syrians living and working in the Kingdom, the restoration of air links provides great relief and will support the economic redevelopment of Syria as the country embarks on rebuilding its infrastructure attracting much-needed investment from the international community.” flyadeal currently operates a modern fleet of 42 A320s from bases in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam to more than 30 seasonal and year-round destinations in the Middle East, North Africa, Europe and South Asia. By 2030, in line with Saudi Vision 2030, flyadeal expects …

Minor Hotels signed an agreement with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises to form a new joint venture company. A highlight of the pipeline will be the introduction of Minor Hotels’ flagship luxury brand, Anantara Hotels & Resorts in locations across the country. The joint venture sets an ambitious target of opening and managing up to 50 hotels over the next decade. Development will span both key urban centres and leisure destinations, including West Cairo, Azha Ras El Hekma on the North Coast and Azha Ain Al Sokhna. As part of the agreement, Minor Hotels will commence management of seven projects, covering operational hotels, brownfield conversions and greenfield developments. The partnership will also extend Minor Hotels’ hospitality expertise to Nile cruise operations across Aswan and Luxor, building on the success of Minor Hotels’ portfolio of Asia based river cruises including Mekong Kingdom and Loy Pela, reinforcing Egypt’s appeal as one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations. William E. Heinecke, Chairman & Founder of Minor International parent company of Minor Hotels commented, “Signing this joint venture with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises is an important milestone as we bring Minor Hotels’ brands and hospitality expertise to Egypt, one of the world’s most storied and inspiring destinations. Together, we are charting a long-term vision that combines SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises’ deep local knowledge with our global reach to deliver exceptional luxury and lifestyle experiences across Egypt’s leading destinations.” Mr. Hossam El Shaer, Chairman of SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises and Madaar Developments, noted “Egypt’s tourism sector is experiencing remarkable growth, fueled by increased investment and growing global interest. We are proud to be part of a collaboration that reflects our shared vision to elevate the …

SLS The Red Sea is set to make its spectacular debut in Saudi Arabia with 150 rooms, suites, and villas, including 15 signature pool villas in November, bringing its unmistakable blend of theatrical flair, lavish style, and unapologetic spirit to Shura Island, the heart of The Red Sea destination. Just 20 minutes from Red Sea International Airport by boat or seaplane and 25 minutes by car, SLS The Red Sea places guests at the centre of it all. The resort is a five-minute journey from Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course, steps away from Shura Island’s yacht marina and high-end shopping and directly connected to The Red Sea’s coral reefs and marine reserves. With its bold spirit, world-class dining, and unapologetically playful energy, SLS is set to become Shura Island’s most exhilarating stage; not just a place to stay, but the place to be seen. SLS will shine as Shura’s vibrant epicentre where bold design, world-class dining, and electric energy collide to create the ultimate VIP experience. With The Red Sea’s outstanding natural beauty as its backdrop, the resort becomes a stage for the glamorous and the daring, and all those who crave the extraordinary. November marks the premiere of SLS The Red Sea, inviting guests to be the very first to experience its striking design, culinary artistry, and enviable style while more is being revealed scene by scene. Intimate and elevated, the opening act will set the tone for the showstopping grand reveal of the spectacular resort, which offers 150 rooms, suites, and villas, including 15 signature pool villas crafted for ultimate privacy and indulgence. Guests can indulge in five dynamic restaurants and bars, a see-and-be-seen pool …

Air Arabia  announced the launch of three weekly flights connecting Tangier to Rotterdam, starting 28 October 2025. The new service further strengthens Morocco’s connectivity with key European destinations and expands Air Arabia’s growing international network. The Tangier–Rotterdam route will provide added convenience for both leisure and business travellers, catering especially to the Moroccan diaspora in the Netherlands, while also supporting tourism and trade links between the two regions. Tangier, one of Morocco’s fastest-developing cities and a key Mediterranean gateway, will gain improved direct access to Europe’s economic hubs. Rotterdam, with its strong commercial profile, offers travellers new opportunities for cultural and business exchange. The launch underscores Air Arabia’s commitment to offering affordable, reliable, and value-driven air travel, while reinforcing Morocco’s position as a vital aviation hub linking North Africa with Europe.  

Oman Air has signed an agreement with H.E. Sayyid Ibrahim bin Saeed Al Busaidi, Governor of Musandam, to support the Musandam Winter Season 2025/26. The agreement was formalized yesterday by the company’s Deputy CEO, Hamood Al Alawi. The carrier will play a key role in promoting the season, aimed at highlighting Musandam’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tourism potential. The collaboration underscores the company’s commitment to supporting Oman’s domestic tourism strategy and strengthening its global visibility as a destination of choice. The Musandam Winter Season 2025/26 is expected to draw both domestic and international visitors, showcasing the region’s unique attractions, from fjords and mountain landscapes to cultural experiences and adventure activities. Through this partnership, Oman Air seeks to reinforce its role in advancing Oman’s tourism ambitions and contributing to the success of one of the country’s most anticipated seasonal events.

Qatar’s tourism industry is on track for a strong year in 2025, with new data showing double-digit growth across visitor spending and job creation. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s latest research, the sector is expected to contribute QAR 166.6 billion (USD 45.8 billion) to the national economy by 2035 — a major increase of more than 20 percent compared to 2019 levels. For 2025 alone, international visitor spending is projected to reach nearly QAR 98.8 billion (USD 27.1 billion), driven by rising arrivals from Saudi Arabia, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Leisure travel will dominate, making up over 76 percent of total spending, while business travel continues to play an important supporting role. The tourism boom is also expected to create more than 136,000 new jobs over the next decade, adding to Qatar’s efforts to diversify its economy and strengthen its position as a global destination. Qatar is now aiming to become one of the fastest-growing tourism markets in the Middle East.

The Gulf Cooperation Council’s (GCC) travel and tourism sector added $247.1 billion to the region’s GDP in 2024, marking a 31.9 percent jump from 2019, according to new figures from the GCC Statistical Centre. Tourism’s share of GDP is forecast to reach $371.2 billion by 2034, accounting for 13.3 percent of the region’s economy. The sector also plays a vital role in job creation, with employment contributions valued at $4.3 billion in 2024—up 24.9 percent from 2019—and an estimated 1.3 million new jobs expected by 2034. The report, “Tourism in the GCC: A Gateway to Development and Sustainable Transformation,” highlights rising youth and women’s participation in the industry. Women represented 13 percent of the workforce in 2024, up 73.2 percent since 2019. Eco-tourism and intra-GCC travel are also on the rise, with natural reserves expanding and 19.3 million intra-regional tourists recorded in 2024.

Etihad Airways has launched its game-changing new A321LR aircraft on all flights to and from Kolkata, bringing a refined luxury experience to the popular Indian route. The sold-out inaugural flight, EY222, touched down at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport (CCU), Kolkata, India at 8.35pm on 24 September. All of Etihad’s eight return flights per week between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata will now be operated by the A321LR. The upgraded A321LR service reinforces Etihad’s commitment to the Indian market where it operates 183 flights per week to 11 destinations across India. The extensive network connects guests seamlessly between India and the Middle East, and conveniently onwards to Europe, Africa and North America. Kolkata, the capital and largest city of the West Bengal state, is an important gateway to India, with Etihad carrying more than 135k passengers annually between the city and Abu Dhabi. Kolkata holds the honour of being recognised as the cultural capital of India, welcoming visitors from around the world to explore the city’s rich heritage and artistic energy. As well as an increase in visitors travelling to India, Etihad is also catering to rising demand from corporate travellers as well as overseas students and those visiting friends and family. The state is also benefitting from an increase in investment in the IT and financial services sectors, which are also driving demand for corporate travel. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “India is an important market for Etihad and we’re incredibly proud to be in Kolkata to welcome our newest aircraft, the A321LR, on its inaugural flight to India. Whether choosing our luxurious First Suites, lie-flat Business seats with direct aisle access and a window-view, or our next-generation Economy …