IndiGo announced new direct flight between Bengaluru and Abu Dhabi. Commencing from August 01, 2024, the Bengaluru-Abu Dhabi flight will operate six times a week, serving as a gateway for Indian travellers to explore the island city and beyond, through IndiGo’s extensive network. It will also provide an opportunity for international travellers to witness the rich heritage and historical landmarks in the vibrant city of Bengaluru. With the launch of this new flight, IndiGo will now operate 75 weekly flights from Abu Dhabi to 10 cities in India, further strengthening connectivity to the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Mr. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo, said, “We are pleased to announce direct flights between Bengaluru and Abu-Dhabi. Bengaluru is the tenth city on IndiGo network to offer direct flights between Abu Dhabi and India. With the addition of these flights, IndiGo offers 75 weekly frequencies to Abu Dhabi and over 220 to the UAE. This new flight will further strengthen travel, trade and tourism between India and the UAE by offering smooth and convenient options for business as well as leisure. As India’s premier airline, we remain steadfast in our commitment to deliver an affordable, on-time, courteous and hassle-free travel experience.” Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is famous for its stunning islands and record-breaking theme parks, impressive architecture, cultural landmarks, and stunning shorelines. The city’s rapid development and urbanisation, coupled with the massive oil and gas reserves, have transformed it into a large, developed metropolis. Some of the famous attractions include Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Ferrari World, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Emirates Park Zoo, and Al Ain Palace Museum. A techie’s paradise, Bengaluru is popularly …

Sharjah Airport welcomed over 8.3 million passengers over the past six months, while recording a similar growth in aviation movement during the same period of 12.2% with 52,702 flight movements. Additionally, Sharjah Airport succeeded in recording a significant growth in cargo handling operations, which reached 40.7% with a total of 97.2 thousand tons. Meanwhile, sea-air cargo operations increased by 17.5% with a total of 7.4 thousand tons. In the context of solidifying its competitiveness and leadership by enhancing operational performance and providing services of the highest global standards, Sharjah Airport achieved a 12.4% growth in total passengers in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period last year. Sharjah Airport Represents a Dynamic and Active Gateway Supporting Economic, Tourism, and Business Sectors in the Emirate of Sharjah His Excellency Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA), affirmed that the progressive and well-planned growth in Sharjah Airport’s performance in travel, aviation, and cargo operations enhances its strategic efforts to solidify its leading regional position as the optimal choice for passengers in the region. This is due to the airport’s provision of a safe and seamless travel experience, adoption of the latest innovative technologies, adherence to environmental sustainability standards, and offering of integrated and high-quality services that align with passengers’ desires and aspirations. His Excellency Ali Salim Al Midfa pointed out that Sharjah Airport serves as a dynamic and effective gateway supporting economic activity, tourism, and the business sector, while attracting investments to the Emirate of Sharjah and connecting it with industrial and economic zones as well as commercial markets. This is achieved by expanding the airport’s connectivity networks and increasing the frequency of aviation movements globally. The …

flynas announced that it has increased the seat capacity on its domestic flights to Taif, Abha, and Al-Baha to more than 480,000 seats, an increase of 21% during the summer season for this year compared to the same period last year, with an average of 30 flights per day for three months, intending to enhance domestic tourism during the summer of 2024, in conjunction with taking delivery of the 52nd new aircraft out of an order to purchase 120 A320neo aircraft from Airbus. Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas, stated that increasing seat capacity to domestic summer destinations confirms flynas commitment to promoting its role as a national carrier in supporting and empowering the tourism sector in the Kingdom and achieving its ambitious goals set by the Saudi Vision 2030 in cooperation and integration with the relevant authorities in the tourism and aviation sectors. “This increase in seat capacity also comes in response to the preferences of our traveling guests and the increasing demand for domestic destinations during the summer season from all flynas operation bases around the Kingdom,” Almohanna added. “Taking delivery of new aircraft, flynas will continue to double its operational capacities and achieve its goals in line with the remarkable growth in the fleet size, within the framework of its strategic plan for growth and expansion, launched under the slogan “We Connect the World to the Kingdom,” in parallel with the objectives of the National Civil Aviation Strategy to enable national air carriers to contribute to connecting KSA with 250 International destinations and to accommodate 330 million passengers and to host 100 million tourists yearly by 2030. Direct flights to Taif, Abha, and Al-Baha depart …

The United Arab Emirates and China signed MoU to increase air connectivity between the two countries. The negotiations resulted in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to increase air connectivity between the airports of the UAE and the airports of China. Additionally, both parties agreed to enhance cooperation and collaboration in the civil aviation sector and to explore new initiatives that would strengthen bilateral relations in the aviation sector. The United Arab Emirates, represented by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), held a round of Air Services Consultation’s with the Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC) in Beijing. The aim was to enhance bilateral air transport relations between the two countries and to increase air connectivity. The UAE delegation was led by His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA. In this context, H.E. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, highlighted the authority’s dedication to enhancing air transport services, bolstering its international presence, and improving air connectivity to benefit the UAE’s national carriers. He expressed commendation for the agreements reached during the discussions, foreseeing a substantial positive impact on the economic sectors of mutual interest. He emphasized the significance of collaboration and the exchange of expertise between the two countries in areas of aviation security, safety, air transport, aviation industry and investments in the aviation sector. He added that the first Air Connectivity Forum between the two countries, held on July 15, was instrumental in achieving positive outcomes in the negotiations. He also highlighted the necessity of holding such forums on a consistent basis to support and strengthen economic and trade relations between the two countries.

IndiGo announced direct flights to Abu Dhabi from Mangaluru, a major commercial center in Karnataka, and Coimbatore and Tiruchirappalli, famous tourist spots in Tamil Nadu. The flights on the Abu Dhabi to Mangaluru route will operate daily, from August 09, 2024, and the Tiruchirappalli to Abu Dhabi will operate four times a week, starting from August 11, 2024. Starting from August 10, the direct flights from Coimbatore, also known as ‘Manchester of South India’, will operate thrice weekly. Recently, the airline had announced new direct flight between Bengaluru and Abu Dhabi, which will operate six times a week from August 01, 2024. These new routes will further strengthen IndiGo’s international connectivity, with non-stop flights connecting the thriving capital city of United Arab Emirates to key cities in Southern India. Mr. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo, said, “We are pleased to announce new direct flights from Mangaluru, Coimbatore as well as Tiruchirappalli to Abu Dhabi. With the addition of these flights, IndiGo now operates 89 non-stop flights a week to Abu Dhabi from 13 cities in India. These flights will provide smooth and convenient options for business as well as leisure travel to the UAE and further add to the gateways for travelers to explore the wonderful island city and beyond. As India’s preferred airline, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing enhanced connectivity and delivering an affordable, on- time, courteous and hassle-free travel experience to our customers.” Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is famous for its stunning islands and record-breaking theme parks, impressive architecture, cultural landmarks, and stunning shorelines. The city’s rapid development and urbanisation, coupled with the massive oil and gas reserves, have transformed it …

Akasa Air commenced direct flights connecting Ahmedabad with Jeddah, the port city of Saudi Arabia, marking its first international route from the Indian city.  The airline now operates two weekly flights between Ahmedabad and Jeddah, providing enhanced and affordable options for air travel between the two major commercial hubs. In an event held at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport to flag off the maiden flight, a ceremonial lamp was lit in the presence of members of Akasa Air’s Executive Committee – Praveen Iyer, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Akasa Air and Belson Coutinho, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing & Experience Officer, Akasa Air. The event was also graced by the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, and a special boarding pass was presented to the first passenger on the inaugural flight. Ahmedabad is Akasa Air’s maiden destination, and the airline forayed into the city in August 2022 with the commencement of weekly flights connecting it with Mumbai. Akasa Air has completed 23 successful months of operations from Ahmedabad and has progressively expanded its presence in the region. The airline now seamlessly connects Ahmedabad non-stop with six domestic and one international destination including Mumbai, Goa, Bengaluru, Delhi, Gwalior, Pune and Jeddah, and operates 59 weekly departures from the city. Since the launch of operations, Akasa Air has carried over 1.8 million passengers to and from Ahmedabad. Commenting on the occasion, Praveen Iyer, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Akasa Air said “As our maiden destination, Ahmedabad holds immense prominence for Akasa Air, and we are delighted to mark our first international flight from the city with the launch of operations to Jeddah. Ahmedabad is India’s leading industrial centre that has displayed a growing appetite for air travel to the Middle East region, and Jeddah has …

Equinox Hotels announce plans for the opening of Equinox Resort Treyam, one of Magna’s twelve destinations, located on the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba. Magna’s destinations, including Treyam, are part of NEOM, the evolving regional development, taking shape in northwest Saudi Arabia. Promising an unrivaled hospitality experience in one of the world’s most stunning and undiscovered locations, Equinox Resort Treyam brings Equinox Hotels’ high-performance lifestyle to a majestic destination between the mountains and the sea. Equinox Hotels CEO, Christopher Norton said “As a region, NEOM embodies the future of luxury hospitality, and Equinox Hotels is thrilled to create an unparalleled resort experience within this visionary destination. Our partnership with NEOM highlights a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and redefining the boundaries of hospitality. Located between THE LINE and the southernmost point of the Gulf of Aqaba, our resort will serve as the model for transformative luxury, activating the entire destination with experiences that only Equinox Hotels can offer.” Nestled amidst exquisite landscapes and crystal-clear waters, the resort is an architectural marvel, spanning a 450-meter-long bridge-like structure, gracefully floating 40 meters above a serene lagoon. Jeremy Lester, Magna Executive Director, said, “NEOM has always been about pioneering the extraordinary, and our partnership with Equinox Hotels underscores this commitment. Equinox Resort Treyam embodies the convergence of innovation and luxury, and this partnership will redefine sustainable hospitality with a focus on truly immersive experiences and active lifestyles. I’m proud to champion this collaboration, one that will see us shape the future of luxury hospitality.” Focused on high-performance living, Equinox Resort Treyam will include spacious guest rooms and suites, a 450-meter pool, world-class culinary concepts, a Club House, a highly acclaimed spa, longevity, …

Marriott International Inc. and Reliance Ventures S.A.E, Reliance Egypt’s hospitality investment arm, signed an agreement to open a Moxy Hotel in Downtown Cairo. Expected to open in 2029, Moxy Cairo Downtown will bring the brand’s playful hospitality, stylish design and buzzing social spaces to the heart of the city’s vibrant downtown district. Moxy Cairo Downtown will be part of an adaptive reuse project of the Lazoghly complex of buildings, which were formerly the offices for the country’s Ministry of Interior. The complex is being repurposed to offer hotel, office and co-working spaces, retail outlets and restaurants, as well as edutainment facilities. “There is a growing demand for more lifestyle hotel accommodation options in Downtown Cairo and Moxy Hotels will be a great addition to the city’s hospitality landscape with its playful and stylish experience,” said Shady Hassan, Vice President, Development – North Africa, Marriott International. “We look forward to working with Reliance Ventures to bring the brand’s social spaces and engaging programming to this vibrant area of the city at an attractive price point.” “We are pleased to work with TSFE and Marriott International to bring a Moxy Hotel to our mixed-use Lazoghly project in Downtown Cairo,” said Magdi Kassabgui, Chairman of Reliance Ventures. “This vibrant development embodies our vision of an urban community where business, education, and entertainment converge. This landmark will reflect Reliance’s commitment to revitalising Downtown Cairo as a premier tourist destination.” Amr Elhamy, Chief Executive Officer, TSFE Tourism, Real Estate & Antiquities Subfund added, “We are excited to work with Reliance Ventures and Marriott International on the conversion of the Lazoghly complex, and to introduce a new addition to the hospitality landscape in Downtown Cairo. This …

Jordan takes number one spot on Skyscanner’s latest report on the top family travel destinations to visit this summer. It is complete with recommendations for the most affordable car rentals with savings of up to 14%*. With the travel season in full swing, families can now plan their perfect vacation without breaking the bank. Skyscanner’s latest research, in association with OnePoll, reveals that out of the 48% of UAE residents who have already booked their summer holidays this year, only 53% have hit the book button on their car hire (in contrast to the 97% who have already booked their flights).** UAE travellers’ advanced planning approach to car rentals are reflected in Skyscanner booking behaviours with 84% of residents booking their car rentals less than 4 weeks before departure and 31% booking on the day before or day of travel. Skyscanner has rounded up five of the cheapest destinations for families seeking adventure, cultural exploration and relaxation. From sun-soaked beaches to rich cultural experiences, these destinations promise unforgettable memories and budget-friendly car rental options. 1. Jordan For families seeking a mix of adventure, culture and history, Jordan offers an array of attractions such as the ancient city of Petra, the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea. Explore affordable car hires starting from an average daily rental price of AED 101, and ensure a hassle-free exploration of this Middle Eastern gem, providing flexibility to discover Jordan’s rich cultural and natural wonders. Flights to Jordan starting from AED 850 return 2. Cyprus Rich in history, culture and it’s alluring crystal clear waters, Cyprus offers a perfect blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and charming villages. …

Minister of Tourism Saudi Arabia HE Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb, highlighted that over SAR1 billion has been provided for ten tourism projects related to hospitality facilities, mixed-use projects and micro-projects in Asir Region. He urged small- and medium-sized enterprise owners to submit serious feasibility studies to obtain the necessary support and provide high-efficiency tourism services. (source: SPA). Al-Khateeb underscored the ministry’s keenness to enhance the quality of products and services provided by hospitality facilities and all tourism activities. He pointed out that the Saudi Summer Program contributes to diversifying offers, which helps increase the number of tourists from within the Kingdom and abroad who visit summer tourist destinations. During his visit, he reviewed the ministry’s efforts to encourage investments in the tourism sector in light of the continuous successes achieved by the sector in the Kingdom. The minister highlighted the significant role played by the Tourism Development Fund, stressing that the fund has provided support exceeding SAR1 billion for more than ten tourism projects related to hospitality facilities, mixed-use projects and micro-projects in Asir Region. He urged small- and medium-sized enterprise owners to submit serious feasibility studies to obtain the necessary support and provide high-efficiency tourism services. He reviewed the substantial potential of Asir Region, qualifying it to become one of the world’s leading tourist destinations. The minister called on investors in the tourism sector to attract more nationals, underscoring the ministry’s commitment to empowering national personnel in the tourism sector.