In its continuous efforts to expand its network of destinations and develop its services to the highest levels of quality, Kuwait Airways announced the launch of first scheduled commercial flights to the cities of Madrid and Malaga in Spain, with three flights per week on Saturdays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, commencing from 11th June 2022. Kuwait Airways CEO, Eng. Maen Razouqi stated, “Kuwait Airways is pleased to launch its flights to Madrid and Malaga in Spain, which are among the most important destinations for our customers, and the commencement of operations is in response to the significant and growing requirements of customers in Kuwait and the Arabian Gulf region.” Razouqi added, “Kuwait Airways is steadily progressing in its strategic plans to expand its network, as it has recently launched a number of destinations, foremost of which are Casablanca, Manchester, Alexandria, Sharm El-Sheikh, Sohag, Trabzon, Bodrum, Izmir, Mykonos, Salalah, and most recently to Sarajevo, which will be followed shortly by operations to destinations such as Nice in France, and Vienna in Austria. This is also in addition to commencing operations to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Kathmandu, Nepal in the coming months.” Razouqi explained that the Airbus A330neo, which was recently included to Kuwait Airways’ fleet of aircraft was designated to facilitate the travel of passengers to Madrid and Malaga, due to its unique technological features and characteristics, spacious seating arrangements, which are in accordance with its latest features present in the air transport sector. The inaugural ceremony for the commencement of operations to Madrid and Malaga was attended by Kuwait Airways CEO, Eng. Maen Razouqi, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to the State of Kuwait, H.E Miguel Jose Aguilar and …

The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) confirmed at the Future Hospitality Summit in Riyadh, that three new hotel management agreements have been signed with international hotel brands to operate resorts in the first phase of development at The Red Sea Project.  These include Ritz Carlton Reserve and Miraval hotels – the first to operate in the Middle East – and Rosewood, a global luxury hospitality company. This announcement demonstrates industry confidence in The Red Sea Project, with a total of 12 hospitality brands now confirmed, and signifies a growing appetite from global leaders to participate in the expansion of the Saudi Tourism market. With two brands now entering the region for the first time, I believe the future of tourism in the Kingdom is bright, said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC. “Together with our collection of globally recognized and respected partners, we are excited to play our part in opening up this unique and undiscovered part of the world, setting new benchmarks for sustainable development along the way.” Ritz Carlton Reserve is situated at the destination’s idyllic Ummahat Islands, whilst Miraval and Rosewood are located on Shura Island, the main hub for the resort. The new collection of hospitality brands collectively feature nearly 500 hotel keys of the total 3,000 planned for Phase One. The luxury hotel companies join a stellar line-up of globally renowned brands that have already confirmed they will operate at The Red Sea Project, including: EDITION Hotels and St Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International; Fairmont Hotel & Resorts, Raffles Hotels & Resorts and SLS Hotels & Residences, part of global hospitality group Accor; Grand Hyatt, part of Hyatt Hotels Corporation; Intercontinental Hotels & …

As Saudi Arabia eases restrictions they continue to ensure that entry to the destination or visas to become more easily accessible thanks to the implementation of online visas. Foreign nationals who live in one of the Gulf Cooperation Countries and hold an eligible passport can obtain their online visa and enjoy stays of up to 3 months in Saudi Arabia. Most foreign citizens must get a visa for Saudi Arabia if they wish to enter the Kingdom. The only exception is represented by nationals of the Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC). Although GCC citizens can visit Saudi Arabia visa-free, third-country nationals who live in one of the GCC nations and hold a residence permit must get a visa unless they have a Saudi passport. Fortunately, many GCC residents can get the Saudi eVisa online. Eligible GCC residents can apply for a Saudi eVisa in minutes. All they need is a reliable internet connection. GCC residents can follow the below steps to obtain a Saudi Arabia eVisa: Fill out the online application form in all of its parts, Upload copies of the relevant documents (such as their valid passport), Pay the application fee and wait for the visa to be sent via email. The application can be completed from anywhere in the world — GCC residents do not have to physically be on GCC territory nor their home country when they apply. They can use a device of their choice to connect to the online application system, including their mobile phone. This allows for great flexibility as they can send their eVisa request on the go. The Saudi eVisa form was designed to be straightforward and easy to complete. Most applicants can …

Canal Central Hotel Business Bay highlighted new partnerships with the region’s key hospitality and tourism key decision makers at the recently concluded Arabian Travel Market. The team closed successful deals and welcomed visitors, tour operators, and key stakeholders to the stand during the four-day travel fair. They also showcased the Group’s properties and shared insights about the latest travel trends, updates, and innovations to tap fresh markets. “We are looking forward to exploring business ventures with our existing and potential partners in the industry. In line with this year’s focus on the future of international travel and tourism, we have been seeking ways to adapt to the current demands of modern travelers. We have plotted our projects to elevate the experience of our guests by upgrading our facilities, both rooms, and dining outlets, as well as customize our stay and F&B offerings”, said Mr. Hussein Gamaleldin, Group Director of Sales and Marketing. Canal Central Hotel Business Bay is eyeing to attract more guests from top source markets, including the UK, Russia, Germany, France, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. On its 29th edition, Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the Middle East’s largest travel and tourism exhibition, resumed its physical conference after running virtual and hybrid shows for the last two years that attracted 1500 exhibitors from 158 destinations worldwide with more than 23,000 attendees, an increase 85% from last year. The event focused on seeking out breakthroughs for the hospitality and tourism industry and investment and financial strategies. Canal Central Hotel Business Bay participated along with its sister properties, C Central Resort The Palm, Royal Central Hotel The Palm, and other brands under Canal Hotels & Resorts. Canal Central in Business …

IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of its second Staybridge Suites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in Al Khobar, on Olaya Street. Located at the heart of Al Khobar’s corporate and shopping centers, it is the only IHG hotel to offer long-term accommodation, making it the ideal place for corporate visitors to the Eastern Province. With its extensive expertise in hospitality, constant quest to satisfy experienced travelers, as well as its signature suites, Staybridge Suites offers premium accommodation experiences for all its guests, allowing them to feel comfortable, connected, and at home at all times. Situated on Olaya Street, Staybridge Suites Al Khobar City provides easy access to the city’s most happening places, enabling guests to enjoy exceptional shopping experiences, such as at Al Rashid Mall and Dhahran Mall, both of which are located only a few steps away from the hotel. The hotel is also close to Al Khobar’s corporate district, which is just 5 minutes away, and Saudi Aramco – only 15 minutes from the hotel. Moreover, its proximity to King Abdulaziz Air Base makes it an ideal choice for Aramco visitors, armed forces officials, and entrepreneurs on short or long visits, at attractive daily rates. The hotel offers prime accommodation, with a choice of three spacious suites – 68 studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom – all of which are fully equipped with fully fitted kitchenettes, comfortable living space, modern facilities, a well-lit workplace, free high-speed Internet, exceptional bed furnishings, a velvet sofa and plenty of storage spaces. The rooms, further enhanced with panoramic views of Al Khobar, have been designed in a manner to offer unrivalled comfort, making them the perfect place for both long …

It was announced that there is a new Saudi Arabia eVisa for cruise passengers. The e-maritime visa is for travelers joining a cruise in Saudi Arabia or arriving at one of its ports onboard a cruise ship. The new eVisa is specifically for cruise tourists. The visa is for passengers: Flying into Saudi Arabia to join a cruise ship, Arriving at a Saudi Arabian port by cruise ship, The new visa has been introduced to facilitate visa processes for cruise passengers. It is now easier for foreigners to fly into the country to join a cruise ship, or visit the country as part of their cruise itinerary. The Saudi Arabia e-maritime visa is a type of transit visa. It cannot be used for extended stays in the country. For longer vacations, foreigners should apply for a tourist eVisa for Saudi Arabia. The tourist visa for Saudi Arabia is for multiple entries of up to 90 days each. The Saudi Arabia tourist eVisa application is also online. Travelers complete the form electronically and receive the approved visa by email. To get an e-maritime visa for Saudi Arabia, applicants must already have purchased a cruise ticket. This visa is only available to people who can prove they will take a cruise to or from Saudi Arabia. They will also require a valid passport. All cruise eVisa applications must be made through the online system. The information provided by applicants is checked in cooperation with the Saudi Cruise Company. To apply for the Saudi Arabia cruise eVisa, eligible travelers must complete the online form, pay the visa fees, and submit the request. Applicants need to provide basic personal and passport details, and information …

Public and private leaders have been called on to unite behind the Jeddah Call to Action, a commitment to align with UNWTO’s approach to rethink tourism governance at every level to keep adapting to the challenges faced by tourism as a global driver for recovery. On the back of the 116th session of its Executive Council, held in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, UNWTO set down a marker for the future of global tourism. With the pandemic having showed the systemic vulnerabilities of the sector, the United Nations specialized agency called for the construction of a new and reimagined system of governance and financing with the aim of building resilience against future shocks while also making tourism more sustainable. Now is the time to think big. Realize tourism’s unique potential to drive recovery, provide opportunity and build resilience, through better and stronger governance and focusing on jobs, training and education In Jeddah, UNWTO continued with its tradition of complementing the important deliberations of its Executive Council with an open discussion on the biggest challenges and opportunities for the sector. The Forum “Tourism Futures – New Governance and Advocacy”, featured two distinct sessions – “Towards a New Tourism Governance” and “Raising Tourism’s Visibility” outside of the sector. “Now is the time to think big”, said the UNWTO Secretary-General welcoming delegates and speakers. Zurab Pololikashvili stressed the need to “realize tourism’s unique potential to drive recovery, provide opportunity and build resilience, through better and stronger governance and focusing on jobs, training and education”. His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, commented: “We cannot recover backwards. Now is the time to capitalize on this heightened recognition …

Wizz Air signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus to explore the potential for hydrogen-powered aircraft operations. The cooperation means Wizz Air will analyse the potential for highly efficient, ultra-low-cost hydrogen powered operations. It will provide WIZZ with a much deeper understanding of how operating a zero-emission hydrogen aircraft could positively impact the airline’s future business model. The objective of this MoU is to identify both operational and infrastructure opportunities and challenges of hydrogen aircraft. Both parties will collaborate to develop a deep understanding of: The evolution of the global hydrogen ecosystem from the perspectives of society, regulation, energy pricing and hydrogen infrastructure The impact of hydrogen aircraft on Wizz Air’s fleet, operations and infrastructure, including its network, scheduling, ground bases and airports, by considering specific aircraft characteristics, such as achievable range and refuelling time Johan Eidhagen, Chief People & ESG Officer, Wizz Air said: “At Wizz Air, we remain ambitious with our growth strategy to deliver on our commitment to make travel affordable for all, while delivering a great customer experience on-board one of the youngest and greenest fleets in Europe. We believe that growth and sustainability are not mutually exclusive, with leading-edge new technology paving the way to more sustainable air travel. This momentous agreement with Airbus will advance sustainable aviation across the globe through development of ultra-efficient operations and business models of the future. We are absolutely thrilled and look forward to beginning our co-operation.” Glenn Llewellyn, Vice President Zero Emission Aircraft, Airbus said: “Working with our customers is paramount to developing a climate-neutral, zero-emission aircraft by 2035. We are very pleased to have Wizz Air on board to collaborate on the ongoing research and development …

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara has partnered with Discover Qatar to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience to view one of the largest congregations of whale sharks that can be found on the planet.  A dedicated high-speed catamaran takes guests of Discover Qatar and Banana Island on the newly launched, unique, excursion to view the biggest fish in the ocean. From April to September, the cooler waters off the north-east coast of Qatar provide the perfect location to see large numbers of whale sharks that gather to feed close to the surface. Upon arrival in the area where the sharks are found, the slow-moving gentle giants can be viewed for two hours from the front and back deck of the catamaran, before the cruise back to the shore. A whale shark expert is provided by Discover Qatar, to help educate guests about these majestic creatures through an interactive lecture, with a professional photographer also on board to capture guests’ experiences on camera. During the trip, a continental breakfast and sandwich buffet lunch are served, along with other snacks and a selection of hot and cold drinks. Discover Qatar is collaborating with Banana Island to offer this unique experience for residents and travellers to Qatar. The resort’s luxurious catamarans are spacious and comfortable and are equipped with wall mounted TVs and WiFi, providing guests with exclusive services and exceptional and memorable experiences. The new whale shark excursions depart five times a week from Al Ruwais Port in the north of Qatar and can be booked by visiting www.whalesharksofqatar.com In addition, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara announces the reopening of its surf pool. After a full renovation, the surf pool once again …

With the established presence in the Turkish taxi market, GetTransfer.com is launching its taxi service to fill the market need in connecting drivers and passengers in the best conditions for both parties. GetTransfer.com will charge only 5% commission of its drivers for rides, which is 8X lower than 39% – the efficient median for aggregators. Alexander Pershikov states, “The uncertain economic and social global landscapes are disrupting many industries and markets. To sustain travel and transportation for people around the world, we seek a solution that is beneficial to both parties. We want people to travel at very good prices with very good drivers, without the stress of worrying about car rides, at the same time we want to support drivers and reward them for their time and labor.” Just in time for the high season – the new taxi finding tool will deal with the increase in short-distance transfer demand and tourist influx, keeping the situation in the transportation business stable despite the growing uptake. With the advanced IT technology, GetTransfer.com offers the best way to link clients and drivers. Based on the minimal input information, the system tailors each offer individually for every client and ensures the best prices. The accessibility of the service is also highly valued. Getting a taxi with GetTransfer.com is easy and safe, with the system covering the owner check, car characteristics, and ratings. The newly introduced mobile application allows travelers from all over the world to rent even more conveniently from their smartphones. Collaborating with GetTransfer.com is advantageous for drivers as well. The system provides them with a smooth workflow and stable income. GetTransfer.com charges a very low commission from drivers – It …