Cruise Saudi has welcomed another Silversea cruise ship, named Silver Whisper, to sail Saudi waters. A plaque and key exchange ceremony was held at both Jeddah Islamic Port and Yanbu Port last week to welcome the ship. This is the second ship from Silversea to sail in Saudi after Silver Spirit took part in a trial summer season in 2020; making it one of just a few ships to sail during the pandemic. Silver Whisper, an ultra-luxury cruise ship, will be the fourth ship to sail the Saudi waters around the Red Sea as part of its World Cruise 2022, Tale of Tales. Over 138-days, the ship will visit 69 destinations in 32 countries. Throughout the World Cruise, Silversea will welcome celebrated creatives – Tale Tellers – aboard Silver Whisper—each of whom will unique insights on a variety of topics and will contribute a chapter to the Tale of Tales anthology, which will be gifted to guests as a keepsake upon the journey’s conclusion. The cruise ship has been designed for luxury-seekers and offers spacious, ocean-view suites that include butler services, and most with private verandas. Silver Whisper also includes a shipboard boutique with collections from top designers, world-class cuisine served in four restaurants, multi-tiered show lounge, swimming pool and pool deck, beauty salon, wellness spa, fitness center, library and other venues. Lars Clasen, Chief Executive Officer of Cruise Saudi, commented: “We are pleased to welcome another exciting cruise ship, Silver Whisper to sail across Saudi’s pristine and crystalline waters. We look forward to offering tourists – specifically those who seek extravagance – truly memorable experiences whilst showcasing the breathtaking beauty in Saudi.” “Cruise Saudi was launched with a clear …

As part of its continuous endeavor to provide distinguished services to its valued customers, Kuwait Airways has announced the launching of the Platinum Card Category, for Oasis Club members, which is the highest level among the Oasis Club cards. In this regard, Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Maen Razouqi stated, “ Kuwait Airways is pleased to announce to its dear customers the launching of its latest services, which is the Platinum Card for Oasis Club Members. This category of cards includes numerous exclusive benefits for its holders, most importantly of which is priority for check-in , arrival of their baggage and extra baggage allowance. Moreover, Platinum Card holders can have access to Kuwait Airways lounges in Kuwait and across all destinations to which the Blue Bird operates and in addition to two accompanying guests, as well as a date change waiver and various different services for its holders.” Razouqi said, “The launch of the Platinum Card emanates as part of Kuwait Airways’ diligent plans to attain the highest levels of excellence in providing services to its valued customers, as the Company renders great attention to evaluating the quality of services, which is in accordance with customer aspirations and meeting their requirements.” Razouqi added, “The services provided by the Oasis Club to Kuwait Airways customers are an important element in contributing to the success of the entire work system of the Blue Bird and distinguishing it from other airlines, where Oasis Card holders can enjoy diverse and exceptional services.” From his part, the Director of Customer Service Department, Mr. Meshal Al-Mutairi said, “We are pleased to launch the Platinum Card for Oasis Club members, which is the highest tier level …

The Austrian National Tourist Office hosted a press conference at the Austrian Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai joined by guests from the Salzburger Land Tourist Board and Wagrain Tourist Board on 28th of March. The press briefing highlighted the sustainability message that Austria has brought to Expo 2020 Dubai, showcased opportunities of sustainable travel in Austria, and shed light on how conscious tourism can play a key role in preserving natural resources and lowering carbon footprint. Sustainability in travel and tourism is extremely important for Austria and is woven into its very fabric. The country aims to be climate neutral by 2040 and is actively incorporating soft mobility, sustainable building and accommodation practices, recycling and upcycling, and organic farming while rapidly transforming its tourism industry to meet its ambitious goal. During the press conference, Robert Groeblacher, Director Middle East of the Austrian National Tourist Office, said, “The future of this world depends on the choices we make today. In Austria, every sector and industry, including tourism, is working to preserve the environment, and we are proud of the progress we have made so far. We welcome visitors from around the world to experience the magic of conscious travel, and to explore the beauty, glory, and pristine nature of Austria. We are confident that this is the only kind of travel people would want to do in the times to come.” Philipp Schramel, Director of the Austrian Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai echoed similar sentiments when he said, “Austria brought the message of sustainability to Expo 2020 through its pavilion’s climate-sensitive, cutting-edge, and ingenious architecture. The design showcases Austria’s vision and mission to adopt sustainable practices in every area – including …

The Saudi Arabian government has reopened the visa-on-arrival program for holders of valid visas for the US, UK and Schengen area, effective immediately. The move comes two weeks after the country lifted all COVID-related entry restrictions and returns Saudi to pre-pandemic levels of openness. Citizens of any country who hold one of the three visas and who are travelling on one of the country’s national carriers – Saudi, Flynas or Flyadeal – can now receive a 12-month tourism visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia without needing to apply in advance. Visitors holding a valid US, UK or Schengen visa must have used it at least once to enter the issuing country or region in order to qualify for a visa on arrival in Saudi. Visitors will also need to purchase COVID-19 insurance, which they can do at any of Saudi Arabia’s international airports. Citizens of any country eligible for the e-visa program, which was introduced in 2019, may also receive a visa on arrival, regardless of the airline they are travelling with. “Restoring the visa-on-arrival program marks the final step in returning Saudi to a pre-pandemic level of openness and makes it one of the most accessible destinations in the world for leisure, business and religious travel,” said His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of STA. “This decision by the government will further support the many thousands of people who depend on tourism for their livelihoods while welcoming the world back to the destination with the warm hospitality for which the Saudi people are renowned.” On March 6, Saudi Arabia announced the lifting of all travel restrictions put in place …

Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Maen Razouqi received the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to the State of Kuwait, H.E. Belinda Lewis, accompanied by Mr. Siraj Hatem, Senior Trade Adviser at the Embassy and Mrs. Samantha Kerry, Events Officer, and in the presence of KAC’s Chief Operations Officer, Captain Eisa Al-Haddad and the Director of Training, Captain Ali Al-Marri. The Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Maen Razouqi welcomed Ambassador Belinda Lewis at the Kuwait Airways headquarters, emphasizing on the extent of the long history of relations between the State of Kuwait and the United Kingdom. He also referred to the joint cooperation and bilateral relations between the two countries and the methods to develop them in all fields in general, and particularly to the aviation sector. Speaking to the Ambassador of the United Kingdom, Razouqi stated, “Kuwait Airways is proceeding, according to well-thought-out and effective plans in moving forward towards expanding its network of operations around the world, with the launch of new and diverse destinations that suit the preferences of its customers and meet their aspirations. Accordingly, the Company will launch its scheduled flights to Manchester in the United Kingdom from 1st May 2022, with three flights per week on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.” Razouqi stated that Manchester as a destination is of great importance to Kuwait Airways’ customers, pointing out that the selection came after an increased demand for it as a distinct destination for tourists, especially in the summer season, which is expected to witness an unprecedented boom in the tourism, travel, and hospitality sectors. Razouqi explained that Kuwait Airways currently owns a new young fleet, supported by the latest technology that keeps pace with all the …

Oman Air Holidays, the tour operating arm of Oman Air – has launched a digital platform giving locally owned and operated SMEs in travel and tourism sector greater online presence and visibility in front of a broader range of international customers. Helping local SMEs digitize their offer is a commitment Oman Air Holidays has undertaken in recent months to help empower local tour operators, guides, hotels, and other small business and solopreneurs in Oman’s growing leisure and hospitality ecosystem. “Empowering Omani SMEs through digitization initiatives brings them out of the shadows and into the spotlight where they can truly shine as local service and product providers,” said Mundher Yaqoob Al Shaikhani, Senior Manager Oman Air Holidays. “Creating opportunities where SMEs can flourish is a key component of the tourism pillars contained in Oman Vision 2040, and Oman Air Holidays is proud to do its part to help. Our platform is connected to a truly global audience and we know it will give local SMEs a step up in the right direction as we continue our efforts to attract more inbound tourists to Oman.” The new digital platform now connects local SMEs to a larger, growing network of international partners associated with Oman Air Holidays. In 2021, Oman Air Holidays partnered with several international travel operators, including WebBeds (a division of Webjet Limited), to enhance its digital booking experience and to provide more choice, flexibility and convenience to guests in search of innovative custom holiday packages. It also introduced stopover packages offering the flexibility to discover some of the most desirable tourist spots in and around Muscat.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi announced the introduction of a new service to Istanbul city in Turkey, starting from April 29, 2022. Abu Dhabi travelers will now be able to fly direct to Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, Istanbul at competitive prices, as of the below schedule: Schedule to Istanbul, effective April 29, 2022 (all times local) Flight Departure Time Arrival Time Aircraft Frequency 3L  361 Abu Dhabi 12:00 Istanbul 15:55 Airbus A320 Friday/Sunday 3L  362 Istanbul 17:00 Abu Dhabi 22:30 Airbus A320 Friday/Sunday Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia, said: “We are glad to add Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, to our growing tourist hotspots with direct flights from Abu Dhabi. The new Abu Dhabi to Istanbul service offers our customers a unique opportunity to discover the historic city which straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosporus straits, the new route reflects our commitment to continuously offer our customers affordable and value driven air travel from our different hubs.” The new service represents the 17th route for Air Arabia Abu Dhabi since the launch of the carrier’s service from Abu Dhabi International Airport in July 2020. Customers can now book their direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Istanbul by visiting Air Arabia’s website, by calling the call center or through travel agencies.

New figures released by the German National Tourist Board (GNTB) show the country’s strategic approach to attracting overseas travellers and recovering international tourism is proving a success. Statistics show that between January and December 2021, Germany welcomed 72.9 per cent more GCC national arrivals than over the same period the previous year. Elsewhere, overnight stays in Germany by visitors from the GCC region rose 82.3 per cent throughout 2021, with December alone recording a 335.2 per cent increase when compared to the previous year. This rise in footfall can be partly attributed to Germany’s ongoing efforts to diversify itineraries through its dissemination of various local cultures, family-focused leisure options, and natural, sustainable scenery, says Yamina Sofo, Director of Sales and Marketing at the Dubai-based German National Tourist Office. “We continue to urge travellers to explore Germany and its vast and varied attractions this upcoming holiday season,” said Sofo. “We have seen consistent growth in 2021 and hope that will be maintained in 2022, especially in summertime when we will be launching some seasonal campaigns. Our goal is always to ensure visitors experience Germany and its culture to full capacity – that means urging travellers to take in the natural beauty that exists throughout all states and cities, not only the major metropolitan areas.” For example, the south-eastern state of Bavaria is home to German capital Munich, but it also includes 45 impressive palaces and castles, as well as 30 court gardens and palace parks with beautifully spacious landscapes and calm lakes. It is perfect for springtime travellers given these rich, cultural landmarks can collectively represent a historic journey through not only Bavaria, but Germany as a whole. Johannisburg Palace in …

Kuwait Airways announced the operation of its scheduled commercial flights to the city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, via Bangkok, Thailand, commencing 2nd June 2022, with three flights a week on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Maen Razouqi stated, “Kuwait Airways is pleased to announce to its customers the operation of its flights to the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, which is one of the most important and new destinations of Kuwait Airways, selected after extensive and systematic research due to its historic and touristic attractions along with its rich, diverse culture. Moreover, Kuala Lumpur also distinguishes itself as a suitable destination for holidays throughout the year and is considered the cultural, financial, and economic center of Malaysia.” Razouqi added, “The launching of Kuala Lumpur as a destination emanates from within the framework of the Company’s strategy to expand its network to various destinations and locations that will cover most countries of the world, with an excellent reach, and meeting the requirements of the local, regional and global aviation market, especially for the summer season, during which we expect to witness recovery and tremendous demand from passengers, that will significantly encourage tourism and travel around the world in general and the State of Kuwait, in particular for the benefit of the tourism and hospitality sector. Moreover, Kuwait Airways is relentlessly striving to provide diverse and newer options that meet the requirements and aspirations of its customers to travel by providing special promotional offers for those destinations that witness great demand during the holiday season and to acquire major operating shares in the global market.” Razouqi mentioned, “Launching the Kuala Lumpur destination is in response to …

Emirates has announced the second daily flight on its Dubai-Melbourne route, served by its flagship A380 aircraft. Starting 1 May, the airline will offer customers fourteen weekly services from Dubai to Melbourne.  The expansion of services is supported by the Victorian Government to help fast-track the return of international flights to Melbourne and bring more visitors to the state. The additional daily frequency between Dubai and Melbourne will grow Emirates’ seats to over 1,000 a day totalling 700,000 a year between the airline’s global Dubai hub and Victoria, with 516 seats on each flight. Travellers can choose from 14 First Class suites, 76 lie-flat seats in Business Class and 426 ergonomically designed seats in Economy Class. Tickets can be booked on emirates.com, the Emirates App, or via both online and offline travel agents. From 1 May, Emirates’ additional daily flight will depart Dubai daily at 10:05hrs, arriving in Melbourne at 05:30hrs the next day. From Melbourne, the flight will depart at 05:15 and arrive in Dubai at 13:10hrs. The additional flight will join the existing service which flies daily from Dubai, departing at 02:40hrs and arriving at 21:50hrs in Melbourne. From Melbourne, the flight departs at 21:15hrs and is scheduled to arrive in Dubai at 05:15hrs the next day. All times are local. The addition of the second daily A380 service will also offer customers more convenience with the option of choosing a morning or evening flight, for optimal onwards connection opportunities when they stop in Dubai.   Before the pandemic, international flights brought more than 3.1 million visitors to Victoria each year and injected $8.8 billion into the economy. Emirates carried 22 per cent of the 1.3 million passengers …