Tag Archives: summer travel

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. …

As millions of people around the world pack their bags for Europe, Uber unveiled its summer travel products designed to help tourists go anywhere by boat in some of the most popular destinations across the continent. The series of magical nautical experiences setting sail with Uber this summer will include the most luxurious mode of transport ever to launch on its app. Following Uber’s launch in Europe’s party capital last year, Uber Yacht will arrive on the shores of Ibiza in August, giving customers an affordable way to travel in ultimate style. In a world first, this once-in-a-lifetime product will allow holidaymakers to pre-book a private yacht for the day directly via the Uber app. Departing from Ibiza Town Marina every day at 12pm, Uber Yacht will offer groups of up to 8 people the opportunity to sail around the white isle in a luxurious Sunseeker Yacht for just €200 per head*. Each 8-hour trip comes with its own personal skipper, a complimentary bottle of champagne and locally sourced artisan snacks. In Uber style, transfers to and from the yacht are included – from anywhere on the island. From exploring the crystal waters of Formentera to sunsets at the legendary rock of Es Vedra, Uber Yacht will be available to pre-book via Uber Reserve in Ibiza starting on 26 July and a minimum of 24 hours in advance, with the product available during August. Uber Yacht leads a boat-load of new travel products launching across Europe just in time for the summer holidays. Starting in July, Uber will launch a first-of-its-kind water transport service in Italy’s most popular aquatic city, Venice. Customers can use the Uber app to summon a ‘Limo …

In line with the summer season, Visit Qatar has launched its Qatar calendar of events and ‘Your Summer Starts Here’ campaign, including a host of offers, events and fun activations targetting the GCC visitors. Curated for people of all ages, the ‘Your Summer Starts Here’ campaign showcases what the country has to offer from outdoor acitivities to exclusive offers in iconic locations. The campaign video shows Bahraini influencer and film-maker Omar Farooq head to Doha for a 24-hour visit where his friend, renowned Qatari athlete, Mutaz Barshim meets him. Together, both Barshim and Farooq experience Qatar’s curated summer offerings. Following its success last year, the Qatar Toy Festival returns to Qatar this summer in its second edition from July 15 to August 14 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The Qatar Toy Festival will be an unforgettable experience for families of all ages. Qatar is also home to several indoor parks including Doha Quest, Virtuocity, Angry Birds World and Trocadero. With world-class private beaches, Qatar is set to welcome GCC visitors to its shores. West Bay Beach, 974 Beach, Doha Sands Beach, Banana Island Resort, Doha Beach Club, Katara Beach and many others will be operating throughout the summer with special events and offers. GCC visitors can benefit from Visit Qatar’s promotions, including up to 40% in multiple locations by Katara Hospitality. Some of these promotions include a festive brunch, lunch or dinner, hotel stays among other exciting offers. Additionally, families with children can visit Inflata City at the Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC) until July 13 for fun activities on inflatables. Msheireb Downtown Doha is hosting ‘Summer Nights’ until August 31 with immersive festivities catered to all …

According to Skyscanner Egypt, United Kingdom, Thailand, Turkey and Everywhere are the most popular searches by UAE travellers this summer. As residents begin planning their summer holidays, global travel marketplace, Skyscanner reveals the top destinations offering great price deals for UAE travellers. Findings also revealed that June is the most popular month for travel searches during the summer, in comparison to July and August. This summer, UAE residents are exploring a variety of captivating destinations that offer a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment. Whether you’re seeking a quick getaway or a longer vacation, these trending spots* promise unforgettable experiences. 1. Egypt Discover the magic of Egypt, a destination offering rich history, ancient treasures and a vibrant culture. This summer, explore the majestic pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, and the world’s longest river, Nile. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover or a foodie, Egypt promises an experience like no other. Prices starting from AED 329 2. United Kingdom Explore the allure of the United Kingdom, a trending destination for summer 2024. From the iconic landmarks of London, such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the vibrant West End, to the historic charm of Edinburgh with its majestic castle and the enchanting Royal Mile, the UK offers a blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Enjoy world-class museums, quaint villages, and lively festivals that bring the streets to life. Prices starting from AED 376 3. Thailand Embark on an unforgettable journey to Thailand, and discover the country’s pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant cities. Thailand offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery. Dive into the azure waters of the Andaman Sea or the …

Hilton London Metropole has announced a new two-bedroom family-friendly room category and amenities following a surge in summer bookings from the GCC region. In 2023, over 65% of all summer bookings at the hotel were made by guests from the GCC, reflecting the property’s increasing popularity among regional travellers. The new two-bedroom family suites can sleep up to six and provide an elevated and luxurious space with contemporary aesthetics, his and her sinks and a stunning main living room space to go alongside the main king size bedroom. The spacious suites also have a separate king size bedroom with an ensuite, spacious contemporary room with adjoining living space, both fitted with an impressive 55-inch TV, WiFi and air conditioning. The living spaces have a kitchenette for added convenience and, as with all suites, come with exclusive access to the executive lounge. Voted Best Family Hotel in the UK at the International Travel Awards 2023, the hotel’s latest announcement follows an impressive multi-million-pound revamp completed last year with enhanced facilities to suit the needs of GCC travellers. The extensive refurbishment, which includes the new room category, also included the three King One Bedroom Deluxe Suites, 13 King One Bedroom Executive Suites and a stunning three-bedroom penthouse with breathtaking views of the London skyline. “We are thrilled to expand our family-focused offering to better cater to our new and loyal guests from the GCC who made up more than half of our summer bookings last year. Our two-bedroom family suites, along with our other carefully curated amenities, including a prayer room and curated halal menus featuring authentic Middle Eastern inspired dishes, affirm our commitment to providing a comfortable home-away-from-home experience for our …

Kuwait Airways launched its first scheduled summer flights to the city of Salalah in the Sultanate of Oman with three flights per week on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays. They shared that the company said that the selection of Salalah as a destination came after comprehensive research of the feasibility of this destination in general, and the extent of its demand, which is becoming increasingly popular among valued customers, especially during the summer season, due to the various attributes of Salalah, such as its moderate climate, touristic attractions, historical and cultural landmarks, as well as its greenery and picturesque nature. Kuwait Airways had previously announced its flight schedule for the 2024 summer travel season which includes the launch of new destinations such as Antalya with two flights per week, Bodrum with three flights per week, Trabzon with three flights per week, Sharm El Sheikh with two flights per week, Malaga with three flights per week, Nice with two flights per week and Sarajevo with three flights per week, bringing the operation of flights to 55 destinations and the average number of flights per day to 52 flights during the summer season. Kuwait Airways has perceived the necessity to increase the frequency of its flights, to operate additional flights to certain destinations, such as London, Amsterdam, Munich, Vienna, and Geneva, and to cater to the increasing demand for these European destinations and to other destinations witnessing extensive demand during the summer, such as Dubai, Riyadh, and Manchester. Furthermore, Kuwait Airways will operate its wide-body aircraft, consisting of the Boeing B777-300, to most of the European destinations, to enable its valued customers to benefit from the amenities of the Royal and Business class …

DXB will welcome over 3.7 million guests in the period from 12 to 25 June, with an average daily traffic of 264,000. June 22 is expected to be the busiest day with guest numbers likely to exceed 287,000. With the summer break in full swing and schools letting out for vacation, Dubai International (DXB) gears up to accommodate the surge in travel during this peak season. As families embark on their summer adventures, DXB is prepared to ensure a seamless and enjoyable travel experience. The priority is to expedite guest formalities, allowing ample time to enjoy the diverse offerings at DXB. From international cuisine to world-class retail, lounges, spas and hospitality services, guests can commence their journey in style and comfort. DXB has curated a range of exciting offers to enhance the travel experience from the get-go. To ensure a hassle-free journey, Dubai Airports offers tips for guests who are travelling in the coming weeks: Emirates passengers can take advantage of the airline’s convenient home, early and self-check-in facilities, including city check-in options. flydubai passengers are advised to arrive at least four hours prior to departure. Guests flying with other airlines should aim to arrive at DXB no earlier than three hours before their scheduled departure time, utilising online check-in where available to save time. Familiarise yourself with your airline’s baggage allowance and packing regulations. Avoid last-minute surprises by checking in advance. Save time at security screening by being prepared. Place metal items— watch, jewellery, mobile phone, coins, belt— in your hand luggage and follow the directed guidelines for carrying liquids, aerosols, and gels. Families with children over 12 can expedite the passport control process by using Smart Gates. Keep …

Kuwait Airways announced the launch of its summer schedule for the 2024 season. They will launch numerous destinations during the summer, namely Antalya with two flights per week, Bodrum with three flights per week, Trabzon with three flights per week, Sharm El-Sheikh, with two flights per week, Malaga with three flights per week, and Nice with two flights per week, thus expanding its operations to 54 destinations during the summer season, in addition to its scheduled flights to permanent destinations. As part of its 2024 summer schedule, Kuwait Airways will focus on destinations that are witnessing a huge demand from customers travelling from within the State of Kuwait and will experience an extensive demand to travel, especially during the summer season, from June to September 2024. They had launched numerous diverse destinations and operated to new markets last year, to meet the requirements and preferences of its valued customers and to provide them with different options, in accordance with its efforts to expand its network of routes around the world. Moreover, the company has, in cooperation with the relevant authorities, and in close coordination with the operational departments are finalizing preparations for the summer operations, for providing its services and assisting the Blue Bird guests at Terminal 4 with distinguished, and exceptional facilities. This is in addition to the Kuwait Airways fleet being fully prepared to carry the esteemed passengers of the national carrier to various destinations around the world. Kuwait Airways Chairman, Captain Abdulmohsen Al-Fagaan stated, “Kuwait Airways is pleased to announce the new 2024 summer destinations to its valued customers, in view of the growth of passenger traffic during the summer period. Kuwait Airways has perceived the necessity to …

Wego and Azerbaijan tourism board invites travelers to discover Azerbaijan in all seasons.  The two companies will join forces for a new campaign aiming to showcase Azerbaijan’s incredible attractions to MENA travelers. Building on the successful previous partnership, this collaboration will leverage Wego’s extensive reach and innovative marketing strategies to showcase Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. In Azerbaijan, both summer and winter offer a wide range of exciting activities for each type of traveler. Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial Officer and Managing Director, MENA and India, Wego, said: “As we renew our partnership with Azerbaijan Tourism Board, we aim to inspire and guide travelers to explore the wonders of Azerbaijan and create a seamless and inspiring travel experience. We recorded over 830,000 searches globally to Azerbaijan this year and we are expecting to see an increase in the searches towards the summer.” During the summer months, the country’s beautiful coastal areas become a haven for beach lovers. Travelers can indulge in water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing. Additionally, the picturesque mountainous regions of Azerbaijan, such as the Greater Caucasus range, provide fantastic opportunities for hiking, trekking, and exploring scenic trails that lead to breathtaking vistas and hidden waterfalls. Florian Sengstschmid, CEO, Azerbaijan Tourism Board, said: “In winter, Azerbaijan transforms into a winter wonderland, providing excellent opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. The country has premier ski resorts and offer world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities with a range of slopes suitable for beginners to advanced skiers. Additionally, the picturesque village of Gabala, located in the Tufandag Mountains, offers a charming winter retreat with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and even enjoying horse-drawn sleigh rides through snowy landscapes.”

According to Skyscanner’s latest research, in association with OnePoll, a huge 98% of UAE travellers are open to travelling to more alternative or lesser-known destinations with more than three quarters (77%) saying they would be likely to swap their holiday favourites for an alternative option if it meant they were likely to save money.  Ayoub El Mamoun, Skyscanner Travel Expert, says,  “The desire for new and alternative destinations appears to be increasing this year, as in 2022, only 41% of global travellers surveyed said that they wanted to explore new places versus returning to an old favourite. We’re seeing a big uplift in the number of searches for underrated destinations from the UAE, including Hanoi (+373%) and Osaka (+332%) to name a few.  With almost half (48%) of UAE travellers yet to book their summer holiday this year, according to our latest research, and 41% of those admitting that they’re still deciding on where to go, Skyscanner is on hand to help find them find a lesser known and cheaper alternative to their usual holiday hot spot.” Over three quarters (76%) of UAE travellers already prefer alternative holiday destinations versus the more tried and true classic hotspots (20%), citing cost savings (24%) and the ability to escape the crowds (27%) as their top reasons why. Skyscanner data reveals it pays to swap. For example, UAE travellers when looking for a European city break could swap popular Paris (with return flights from Abu Dhabi AED 308 this August) for the lesser-known city of Bucharest (with return flights from AED 171 this August) and save 44% on the cost of their flights alone. Head to the old town in Bucharest to discover …