It is not surprising that Dubai, the capital of the UAE, is known as the most luxurious city in the Gulf region. For a person visiting on vacation, there are plenty of things you could do and have a wonderful time, but a safari into the desert in Dubai remains the pinnacle of the visit, and it is something you must try.   A trip to the desert can make up for great memories. Like spending an eventful day and memorable night in the desert, wildlife viewing on a Land Rover, and an evening in an Arabic tent with the grandeur of nature, and of course, how can you forget dune buggy dashing?    Whether planning a romantic getaway or desert-themed activities for a day trip, you cannot go wrong with a stay in the vast Arabian desert. Today we will go over some activities you can do on your trip to the Dubai desert ......read more

02,  June 2023:  The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced continued strong passenger traffic demand in April.    • Total traffic in April 2023 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose 45.8% compared to April 2022. Globally, traffic is now at 90.5% of pre-Covid levels. At 81.3%, industry load factor was only 1.8 percentage points below pre-pandemic level. • Domestic traffic for April rose 42.6% compared to the year-ago period and has now fully recovered, posting a 2.9% increase over the April 2019 results.  • International traffic climbed 48.0% versus April 2022 with all markets recording healthy growth, with carriers in the Asia-Pacific region continuing to lead the recovery. International RPKs reached 83.6% of April 2019 levels. “April ......read more

01 June 2023:  The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for April 2023 global air cargo markets, showing a continued, but slower, decline against the previous year’s demand performance.    • Global demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs), fell 6.6% compared to April 2022 (-7.0% for international operations). This decline was an improvement over the previous month's performance (-7.6%).  • Capacity (measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers, ACTK) was up 13.4% compared to April 2022. It was also up 3.2% compared to April 2019, marking the first time in three years that the capacity has surpassed pre-COVID levels. The strong uptick is primarily driven by belly capacity as demand in the passenger business recovers. Adjusting for this, freighter ......read more

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 01 June 2023: flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, today marks 14 years of operations. On 01 June 2009, the carrier welcomed its first passengers on board its inaugural flight FZ 157 from Dubai to Beirut. Since then, flydubai has been changing the way people travel around the region by enabling them to travel to more places, more often. Commenting on the airline’s 14th anniversary, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai, said: “flydubai has been at the forefront of opening previously underserved destinations from Dubai; facilitating flows of trade and tourism, and strengthening the cultural and social ties between people from different countries. flydubai has proven its ability to adapt and take decisive actions, even during challenging times, thanks to its ......read more

1 June 2023 - Air Algérie, the national airline of Algeria, has signed a firm order for seven widebody aircraft to support its commercial development. This order will allow Air Algérie to take full advantage of the flexibility of the Airbus product range, strengthen its regional services and offer an ambitious plan for transcontinental destinations. By operating the A330neo alongside the A350-1000, Air Algérie will also benefit from operational savings such as a 25 percent lower fuel burn per seat and greater flexibility resulting from the unique commonality between members of the Airbus aircraft Family. The A330neo and the A350 also feature the award-winning Airspace cabin, which offers passengers a high level of comfort, ambience, and design. This includes more individual space, enlarged overhead bins, a new lighting system and ......read more

Dubai, UAE, 1 June 2023: Emirates is unveiling a new closed loop recycling initiative this month, where millions of onboard items such as plastic trays, bowls, snack and casserole dishes, will now be recycled in a local facility and remade into fresh, ready-to-use Emirates meal service products.   Marking United Nations World Environment Day on 5 June, and the theme of #BeatPlasticPollution, Emirates will introduce the new recycled utensils onboard from June 2023 onwards.   In line with Emirates’ commitment to consuming responsibly, the new initiative is a transition to the principles of a circular economy, whereby items are reduced, reused, and recycled. Millions of old and damaged meal service items from Economy and Premium Economy Class dining will be collected after flights, washed and checked for damage, ......read more

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – May 31, 2023:  The Hajj Committee at Dubai Airports convened recently to discuss comprehensive preparations to facilitate the smooth and seamless travel of Hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia this year. The committee, which comprises key service partners including Dubai Police, the General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), Dubai Customs, Dubai Health Authority, flydubai, Emirates, Saudi Airlines, and flynas, among others, aims to deliver an exceptional airport experience for the pilgrims across all terminals at DXB. Mohammad Al Marzouqi, Head of the Hajj Committee, emphasised on the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders and service partners as the key to maintaining service quality especially during annual peak travel seasons.  Dubai Airports is committed ......read more

 Etihad Airways ranked third in Airline Ratings’ ‘Top 10 Airlines’ globally   Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has been named Environmental Airline of the Year 2023 for the second year running in the prestigious Airline Ratings awards.   The awards, which acknowledge the best of the aviation industry, and ranks airlines on their innovation, route networks and safety score against a strict assessment criteria, recognised Etihad for its commitment to sustainable aviation through innovation and collaboration, along with its dedication to drive change and results from Abu Dhabi, or the world.    As well as being crowned Environmental Airline of the Year, Etihad took third in Airline Ratings’ ‘Top 10 Airlines’ award, which critiques ......read more

• Activities range from night hikes, stargazing and tours of heritage sites Hegra, Dadan, Jabal Ikmah and AlUla Old Town • AlUla boasts low humidity and cooler temperatures, making it a perfect summer getaway AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – May 24, 2023: The vibrant holiday destination of AlUla is gearing up to offer visitors an exceptional summer experience. The ancient city is brimming with an exciting range of activities and events, including immersive tours of its historic monuments, majestic landscape, serene hikes amid rocky outcrops, and magical stargazing opportunities. Located in north-western Saudi Arabia, AlUla boasts low humidity and temperatures that are between 5C to 10C cooler than other cities in the region, making it an ideal escape for travellers in search of a unique experience and some ......read more

Will launch more than 260 new digital services within two years RIYADH, Monday, May 23, 2023: SAUDIA, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has signed an agreement with global professional services firm Accenture paving the way for a digital transformation program that will make the airline’s guest experience seamless and highly personalized while improving operational efficiency. Through this agreement, SAUDIA will use artificial intelligence technologies to significantly enhance its digital infrastructure and build more than 260 new digital and electronic services in two years. SAUDIA’s guests will be able to enjoy more personalized services and a smooth travel experience possible across the entire travel cycle, from ticket search and booking to check-in, and from in-flight services to post-sale ......read more

 AZULIK AlUla Resort will feature 76 luxury villas launching by 2027  Designed in line with the AlUla Sustainability Charter, the resort will connect guests with surrounding natural and human heritage  The development will drive socioeconomic benefits including more than 300 new jobs   AlUla, Saudi Arabia, 22 May 2023: The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) will develop a new resort within the Journey Through Time (JTT) masterplan, designed in harmony with the natural environment and aligned with the Sustainability Charter for AlUla, Saudi Green Initiative, and Vision 2030.   The AZULIK AlUla Resort is a stunning eco-luxury property in the Nabatean Horizon District of the JTT masterplan, tucked into canyons near the AlMutadil Equestrian Village development and Wadi AlFann, an ancient valley ......read more

Oman News Agency, May 20, 2023 - SalamAir, Sultanate’s fastest-growing value-for-money airline, is delighted to announce the launch of three new destinations in June and July. These new destinations include Almaty, Kazakhstan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and the Turkish city of Rize. Captain Mohamed Ahmed, CEO of SalamAir, expressed his excitement about the expansion plans, stating, "We are thrilled to introduce these new destinations to our growing network. Almaty, one of Kazakhstan's prominent cities, offers great tourism potential. We aim to establish year-round connections to cater to the demand and not limit it to seasonal periods." In addition to these developments, SalamAir is currently an economic study of 20 new tourist destinations in Europe and Eastern Europe. The objective is to attract tourists to the ......read more

• Simply join Emirates Skywards, even while inflight • Emirates latest Wi-Fi enhancement sees an additional 30,000 Economy Class passengers connect weekly for free   Dubai, UAE, 19 May 2023: A recent enhancement to Emirates’ inflight connectivity means that all Emirates passengers in every class of travel can enjoy some form of free connectivity once they sign up to Emirates Skywards. The development has resulted in an additional 30,000 Economy Class passengers connecting to complimentary onboard Wi-Fi every week.   Emirates has constantly been at the forefront of inflight Wi-Fi developments and has to date invested more than US$ 300 million dollars into onboard connectivity.   All Emirates Skywards members in every class of travel can now enjoy some form of free connectivity. Skywards ......read more

• Achieved a 26% reduction in CO2 emissions per Revenue Tonne Kilometre (RTK) to 482g compared to 2019 baseline, by continuing to innovate and introduce operational efficiencies   Abu Dhabi, UAE – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has published its annual sustainability report, detailing the company's commitment to sustainability and its progress towards its sustainability goals.   In 2022, the airline achieved an impressive 26% reduction in CO2 emissions per Revenue Tonne Kilometer (RTK) to 482g compared to 2019 baseline.    Etihad's sustainability strategy is based on principles of achieving emissions reductions through in-sector measures, aligning with industry voluntary roadmaps and frameworks, collaborating with UAE industrial ecosystems, ......read more

16 May 2023: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported high levels of confidence among travelers for the peak Northern summer travel holiday season. This corresponds with first quarter 2023 forward bookings data for May – September which is tracking at 35% above 2022 levels.     The survey covering 4,700 travelers in 11 countries shows that: • 79% of travelers surveyed said that they were planning a trip in the June-August 2023 period • while 85% said that peak travel season disruptions should not be a surprise, 80% said that they expected smooth travel with post pandemic issues having been resolved Forward bookings data indicates that greatest growth is expected in: • Asia Pacific region (134.7%) • Middle East (42.9%) • Europe (39.9%) • ......read more

 The new agreement will enable more passengers from Canada to connect seamlessly via Dubai’s aviation hub to a number of destinations on flydubai’s growing network Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 17 May 2023: flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, announced a new partnership with Air Canada to give customers flying between Canada, the Middle East, East Africa, Indian Subcontinent and Southern Asia more convenient travel options. Pending final regulatory approval, Air Canada’s marketing code will be placed on nine routes operated from Dubai by flydubai, giving customers the ability to travel to these markets with the issuance of a single ticket. The nine routes include Bahrain, Dammam, Jeddah, Madinah and Muscat in the GCC as well as to Colombo and Karachi in the Indian Subcontinent. Additionally, through an ......read more

Sector to match 2019 GDP contribution by the end of 2023 Travel & Tourism jobs to surpass pre-pandemic levels this year Sector to outstrip national GDP growth over the next decade United Arab Emirates: The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) today reveals the UAE Travel & Tourism sector is projected to meet the 2019 peak this year. The sector is set to contribute AED 180.6 billion to the UAE economy by the end of 2023, almost matching the 2019 high AED 183.4 billion, only 1.5% behind pre-pandemic levels. This represents nearly 10% of the total economy. WTTC is also forecasting that the sector will create nearly 7,000 jobs this year, surpassing the pre-pandemic peak of 745,100, to reach more than 758,000 employed by Travel & Tourism. A look back on last ......read more

• Five weekly flights from Abu Dhabi to the exciting Japanese destination styled as the new ‘food capital of the world’ starting 1 October 2023 • New service to Osaka is the airline’s second gateway to Japan along with Tokyo   ABU DHABI, UAE – Etihad Airways is set to fly to Osaka five times per week beginning 1 October 2023, connecting one of the world’s most culturally animated cities to the already extensive Etihad network.   “We’re delighted to introduce flights to Osaka for the first time,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways. “As one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities, I know visitors will enjoy exploring its heritage and sampling some of Osaka’s renowned hospitality.   “Equally, ......read more

 Use of sustainable aviation fuel estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 95 percent compared to existing jet fuel   Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; 16 May 2023: Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar, one of the world’s leading clean energy companies, has signed an agreement with Airbus, the largest aeronautics and space company in Europe and a worldwide leader to support the development and growth of the global sustainable aviation fuel market.   The signing ceremony was held in the presence of His Excellency Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Chairman of Masdar and COP28 President-Designate, Guillaume Faury, Chief Executive Officer, Airbus, and Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer, Masdar. The agreement was signed by Mohammad ......read more

5,590 Cathay Pacific Air Tickets to be given away in India, Bangladesh, Nepal and UAE in support of “Hello Hong Kong”   15 May 2023: As part of the “World of Winners” campaign sponsored by Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) that will give away 500,000 free tickets to global visitors, Cathay Pacific will be offering residents across India, Bangladesh, Nepal and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) 5,590 round-trip air tickets to Hong Kong. The initiative is in support of Hong Kong Tourism Board’s (HKTB’s) "Hello Hong Kong" campaign to welcome tourists back to the city, now that travel restrictions are well behind us.   The campaign will be launched simultaneously in India, Bangladesh, Nepal and UAE on the same day, 22 May 2023.   Hong Kong’s Biggest Welcome ......read more

DUBAI, UAE: May 9, 2023: Traffic at Dubai International (DXB) has reached 95.6% of 2019 levels with passenger numbers exceeding 21.2 million in the first quarter of the year. This follows DXB’s strong showing last year during which the airport clocked 66m passengers to retain its position as the world’s busiest international hub for the ninth year running. Key facts and figures DXB’s passenger traffic totalled 21,256,489 during the first three months of the year, up 55.8% compared to the first quarter of 2022, and marking the first time since the fourth quarter of 2019 when average monthly traffic reached the 7-million passenger-mark. March was the busiest month in the first quarter with 7.3 million passengers, which is also the highest monthly traffic since January 2020 when DXB recorded 7.8m passengers. DXB is ......read more

National airline welcoming talented, energetic and motivated pilots and cabin crew to build or continue to develop their career in a strong and constantly growing airline 05 May 2023, Abu Dhabi, UAE: Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the ultra-low-fare national airline of the UAE, is launching an ambitious recruitment drive with a Go Pink campaign, in response to the continuous regional growth of the airline. Pilots and cabin crew from Go First who wish to continue their dream jobs in the WIZZ team are encouraged to apply. The national airline, the second largest carrier in Abu Dhabi by seat capacity, currently has 400 highly-engaged aviation professionals employed locally with financial stability opening many exciting opportunities for recruitment and career growth within the organisation. The Go Pink campaign will start on 09 May with a ......read more

Saudi Arabia, 4 May 2023: Saudi Arabia's Royal Commission for AlUla has chosen Egis, the multidisciplinary engineering and operations company, to undertake several projects related to the development of the Private Aircraft Terminal, otherwise known as a Fixed Based Operator or FBO, at AlUla's International Airport.  This new project is a continuation of the collaborative work between RCU and Egis which began last year with the opening in November of a new airport hangar for private aircraft. Built in line with clean energy standards, the 3,000sqm hangar is equipped with ground flight and engineering crews and can also provide long-term parking services. Egis’ current scope of work is divided into two components: expansion of the existing hangar, to provide the necessary storage, maintenance and operations ......read more

• 127 commercial aircraft delivered in Q1 2023 • Revenues € 11.8 billion; EBIT Adjusted € 0.8 billion • EBIT (reported) € 0.4 billion; EPS (reported) € 0.59 • Free cash flow before M&A and customer financing € -0.9 billion • Guidance unchanged   04 May 2023 – Airbus SE (stock exchange symbol: AIR) reported consolidated financial results for its First Quarter (Q1) ending 31 March 2023.   “The first quarter confirmed strong demand for our products, particularly for commercial aircraft. We delivered 127 commercial aircraft, which is reflected in the Q1 financials. The quarter also benefited from a good performance in Helicopters,” said Guillaume Faury, Airbus Chief Executive Officer. “We continue to face an adverse operating ......read more

DUBAI, UAE 2 May 2023: For the tenth year in a row, Emirates again emerged on top capturing ‘Best Airline Worldwide’ at last night’s Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2023. The red carpet ceremony was attended by industry leading figures and professionals from across the Middle East. Adil Al Ghaith, Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Gulf, Middle East and Central Asia, and Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President, Skywards received the awards on behalf of Emirates.   The airline also earned high marks for constantly delivering better experiences through its best-in-class service and leading industry products winning Best First Class, Best Premium Economy, and Emirates’ First Class Lounge was named Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East. Last night’s awards ......read more

Dubai, UAE, 2 May 2023: Emirates has signed a three Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) on the side-lines of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) with Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, the Moroccan National Tourism Office (www.visitmorocco.com) and Tourism Authority of Zimbabwe to promote inbound travel and boost visitor numbers.  The airline is renewing its pledge to support Indonesia’s travel and tourism sector, with its ongoing efforts to promote the country as a varied and exciting travel destination by launching joint marketing campaigns and initiatives. Emirates will further support tourism flows from key markets in its global network - including UK, US, Germany, France, Italy and Spain - to the Southeast Asian destination.   The MoU was signed by Orhan Abbas, Emirates’ Senior ......read more

• Winner: Best Cabin Crew for the third consecutive year • Winner: Best Economy Class • Winner: Best Frequent Flyer Programme award for Etihad Guest   Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has been recognised as the airline with the ‘Best Cabin Crew’ for the third year in a row at a gala awards ceremony held yesterday evening at the Palazzo Versace, Dubai. Following a public vote, the Business Traveller Middle East Awards also recognised Etihad with the Best Economy Class and Best Frequent Flyer programme for Etihad Guest.   Etihad’s Cabin Crew are best known for their warm and personal service which is inspired by traditional Emirati hospitality. Before they take to the skies, Etihad’s cabin crew are taken through an ......read more

• Carries more than 3.37 million passengers between 01 January and 31 March 2023, an increase of 50% compared to 2022 • Grows its network to 120 destinations in 52 countries, supported by ongoing aircraft deliveries • Gets ready for the busiest summer to date with a 20% increase in capacity across the network between 01 July and 30 September, compared to the same period in 2022 Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 02 May 2023: Dubai-based flydubai records another exceptional first quarter carrying more than 3.37 million passengers between 01 January and 31 March 2023, an increase of 50% compared to the same period in 2022. The carrier plans to ramp up operations for the busy summer travel period between 01 July and 30 September, increasing its capacity by 20% across the network. Since the start of 2023, flydubai ......read more

DUBAI, UAE, 28 April 2023: Emirates is poised to showcase its latest roster of innovative products and fan-favourites at this year’s 30th edition of Arabian Travel Market, which gets underway on 1 May. A milestone year for the event, which is celebrating its third decade of connecting the travel industry, this year also marks Emirates 30th year of partnership and commitment to ATM. When the exhibition first opened its doors thirty years ago, Emirates flew 15 aircraft to 30 cities and carried close to 2 million passengers. Today, Emirates is the world’s largest international airline serving over 140 destinations on more than 200 wide-body aircraft, connecting tens of millions of travellers across the globe each year, and making Dubai one of the most globally connected cities for travel, tourism and business. Over the ......read more

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 27 April 2023: Abu Dhabi, UAE – 27 April 2023: Abu Dhabi Airports, the owner and operator of five airports in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, welcomed the first SF Express cargo plane to Abu Dhabi International Airport. The inaugural flight signalled the launch of operations for the global freight leader for the first time in the region. This strategic partnership is in collaboration with Etihad Cargo and Kerry Logistics, and further strengthens Abu Dhabi International Airport’s position as a key regional cargo hub. Chinese-based SF Express, one of the world's largest providers of express logistics services and solutions, has gained significant attention in the logistics industry due to its recent international expansion strategy. With its sights set on strengthening its position as a major ......read more

AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 27 April 2023: From April 26th to May 13th AlUla is set to come alive with the AlUla Skies Festival, a celebration of the sky’s wonders and a showcase of the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, a photography or cultural enthusiast, the festival has something to offer for everyone.  Here are the top ten unmissable activities during the AlUla Skies Festival.   1. Soar high with hot air balloon rides One of the main highlights of the AlUla Skies Festival is the opportunity to take a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of AlUla. The untethered hot air balloon tour is set to take visitors on a 45-minute ride through AlUla’s clear morning skies capturing the unique rock ......read more

Airport Show to enable ‘Sustainable Future for airports’ Sustainable Apron is among three key themes ME airports shifting to renewable energy  Dubai leads in developing sustainable aviation  Sustainability helps future-proofing the airports Dubai, April 27, 2023 – As the global airport industry, comprising over 40,000 ICAO-coded airports and revenues exceeding US$173 billion, work its ways to become carbon net-zero by 2050 through enhancing infrastructure, technology-based operational efficiencies, robust controls and benchmarked excellence, the Airport Show, from May 9 to 11, will have a sharp focus on sustainability and innovation.  Together in Innovating Future Sustainable Airports will be the theme of the world’s largest annual airport industry B2B platform. Over its ......read more

27 April 2023: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 35th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) will focus on fostering technology to improve safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability. IGHC is taking place in Abu Dhabi, 16-18 May 2023, with Etihad Airways as the host airline.  “Passenger and air cargo traffic are close to pre-pandemic levels. Efficient ground operations are essential to meet the scaling-up of demand. Unfortunately, the ground handling sector continues to face operational, recruitment and retention challenges following the greatest aviation downturn in history. This year’s IGHC will explore how these can be overcome and how technology can be implemented to improve efficiency, increase compliance with global standards and improve safety and environmental ......read more

World Pilots' Day 2023_2028 Around 40% of Emirates’ pilots have been with the airline for 10+ years The next online info session for recruitment will be held on 10 May DUBAI, UAE, 26 April 2023: Airline pilots connect people with places and help create treasured memories – whether it’s an unforgettable holiday, a rock concert, a friend’s wedding or a mother’s warm hug. So on World Pilots’ Day, Emirates salutes its highly skilled aviators for their contributions to global travel and the airline’s business, while continuing to recruit First Officers and seasoned Captains. Fun fact: when Emirates launched its services in 1985, the airline’s pilots then were part of the two wet-leased aircraft from Pakistan International Airlines. Fast forward to today and the airline boasts ......read more

Dubai, UAE, 26 April 2023 – Advancing its sustainability efforts, Emirates and dnata have joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), a voluntary global initiative that promotes responsible business practices and the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, said: “In the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, we are pleased to join the United Nations Global Compact, which is another step forward in the Emirates Group’s efforts to embed sustainable and responsible business practices across our operations. “Emirates and dnata have always taken a balanced approach to growth. Reflecting Dubai and the UAE’s long-term vision, we are tireless in our pursuit of excellence and progress, and we ......read more

25 April 2023  – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reminded stakeholders of the critical role that aviation plays at times of natural disasters and humanitarian crises.    “When crises strike, aviation is there. Connectivity is essential to get aid and first responders to where they are needed. The response to the recent earthquake in Southern Türkiye and Syria was no exception. Airlines helped save lives in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake. And airlines continue to help accelerate the recovery with vital cargo shipments,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, as the airline industry met in Istanbul for the IATA World Cargo Symposium. While there is no comprehensive tabulation of the support that aviation provided, a limited review of 29 key carriers serving ......read more

25 April 2023:   The International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted three priorities to enable the air cargo industry to maintain momentum against the backdrop of a challenging operating environment. The priorities, outlined at the 16th World Cargo Symposium (WCS), which opened in Istanbul today are:   • Sustainability  • Digitalization  • Safety    “Air cargo is a different industry than the one that entered the pandemic. Revenues are greater than they were pre-pandemic. Yields are higher. The world learned how critical supply chains are. And the contribution of air cargo to the bottom line of airlines is more evident than ever. Yet, we are still linked to the business cycle and global events. So, the war in Ukraine, uncertainty over where ......read more

25 April 2023 – Abu Dhabi, UAE: Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ), a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Airports, has reaffirmed its status as a unique preferred business destination for local, regional and international organisations across several economic sectors, recording a two-fold increase in leased out spaces and properties.  This strong performance in 2022 was dually driven by growth in leased spaces and properties, where ADAFZ signed contracts for a total of 163,580 m2, across Abu Dhabi International, Al Ain International and Al Bateen Executive Airports. Properties included commercial spaces, land development plots as well as administrative facilities, resulting in an increase in annual leases by 256%.   H.E. Eng. Jamal Salem Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and CEO, Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “Since its ......read more

Qatar Tourism has launched the Hayya Platform in a new form, inviting tourists who currently need a visa to Qatar to enjoy the country’s famously warm Arabian hospitality and diverse touristic offering.  Taking place with immediate effect, the launch of the well-known Hayya Platform – which allowed the entry of over a million visitors during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM tournament – and its application via smart phones, will become the single portal for all tourist and business visas to Qatar. This will unify visa processes for tourists, GCC residents and companions traveling with GCC citizens (whom are issued an ‘Authorisation Electronic Travel’ permit).  The latest development reflects Qatar’s keenness to continue its investment in the tourism sector, which forms an important ......read more

Partnership with Qatar’s national carrier and its Doha hub will further boost Expo 2023 Doha tourist attractiveness, cementing its position as an international event and the next global milestone for the State of Qatar  Doha, 13 April 2023:  In the lead-up to the event starting in October, Expo 2023 Doha continues to expand its network of partners, mobilising Qatar’s key entities to join the unique celebration spanning 6 months.  This Thursday April 13th, the Ministry of Municipality hosted an official signing ceremony between Expo 2023 Doha, Qatar Airways and Hamad International Airport (DOH), a significant milestone for all parties who will work together to elevate Expo 2023 Doha tourism potential.  The national carrier of the State of Qatar, Qatar Airways is one of the youngest and most ......read more