“The Middle East remains a strategic growth market for ITB Asia, with strong participation from the Oman Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and growing interest from other key stakeholders across the region. Buyers from the Middle East are especially important as they bridge Asia-Pacific suppliers with the region’s fast- rising demand for MICE, luxury, and wellness travel. As the Middle East invests heavily in tourism and experiential offerings, ITB Asia provides a vital platform for cross-regional partnerships and high-value business opportunities that benefit both markets,” shared Darren Seah, Executive Director of Messe Berlin Asia Pacific and organiser of ITB Asia, MICE Show Asia, and Travel Tech Asia with media partner TravTalkME. “For Middle Eastern participants, ITB Asia is the gateway to the fast-growing Asia- Pacific market. The show connects them directly with high-quality buyers and destinations that align with the region’s expanding interests in wellness, medical, adventure, and experiential travel. With stronger air connectivity and rising two- way travel flows, ITB Asia provides an ideal platform for tourism boards, airlines, and operators to build partnerships, promote new offerings, and tap into Asia’s dynamic traveller base.” This year marks a major milestone in ITB Asia’s 17-year history. For the first time, the show will occupy five halls across two levels at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre — our largest footprint to date. We’re also welcoming over 1,500 buyers, the highest participation in ITB Asia’s history, reflecting the event’s growing scale and influence in the global travel industry. Beyond size, ITB Asia 2025 stands out for its diversity and international reach, with first-time participants from Azerbaijan, Lithuania, Hungary, Tamil Nadu, Danang, and the Kaohsiung City Government. A key new feature is the …

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) showcased the Saudi Red Sea’s luxury experiences, yachting readiness, and investment opportunities as the next frontier in superyachting at the Monaco Yacht Show. With state-of-the-art marinas, luxury yacht clubs, and a world-class, growing coastal infrastructure, the Saudi Red Sea is emerging as the next must-visit destination for superyachts and luxury maritime experiences. Commenting at the Monaco Yacht Show, Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, said: “With $22.4 billion already committed, the Saudi Red Sea is backed by unprecedented investment and a clear ambition to set new standards in luxury and hospitality. Boasting over 1,800 KM of pristine coastline, we are ready to welcome the global yachting community with world-class infrastructure, pristine cruising grounds, and ultra-luxury experiences. The Monaco Yacht Show has been an excellent platform to highlight the Saudi Red Sea as the next frontier for superyachting – from the Med to the Red – and we look forward to welcoming more captains, crews, and visitors to our shores.” By 2030, the Saudi Red Sea will offer 80 hotels across The Red Sea and AMAALA destinations, alongside the exclusive Thuwal Private Retreat. This year, new openings on Shura Island include the SLS, EDITION, and InterContinental resorts, all set to welcome guests in the coming weeks and mark a new era of luxury. Additionally, Shura Links, an 18-hole, par-72 championship course that hugs the coastline, recently opening this September, underscoring the Saudi Red Sea’s emergence as a premier destination for luxury experiences. At its 300 sqm pavilion, STA demonstrated Saudi’s advanced yachting infrastructure, including purpose-built facilities and fully serviced marinas designed for smooth operations and effortless arrivals. With streamlined entry, flexible routing, and luxury …

Oman’s tourism activity offerings highlight the country’s strongest assets: a rich local cultural heritage and an extraordinary variety of landscapes, as shown by an analysis carried out by Mabrian, the global travel intelligence and tourism advisory partner. The study indicates that cultural experiences remain a central pillar of the offer, yet nature and active lifestyle activities together now surpass culture as the main source of discovery and enjoyment for travellers exploring the Sultanate. Mabrian, part of The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group, examined supply and demand trends for experiences marketed through major online activity platforms across Oman’s 8 regions, using data from August and September 2025. “Our data intelligence shows clear opportunities to broaden Oman’s tourism offer around experiences beyond its cultural core, a particular yet relevant element of its tourism value proposition. Strengthening nature and active experiences in underrepresented regions, and making more family-oriented products available online, can help the country reach new segments and extend visitor stays,” says Sonia Huerta, Director of Insights & Tourism Advisory at Mabrian, and supervisor for this in-depth analysis. Mabrian’s data reveals that 37% of all activities and experiences available in Oman are concentrated in cultural tourism, linked to local heritage and monuments. This is followed by nature (28%) and active tourism (17%), which combined account for 45% of total activities offerings in the Sultanate. In terms of sub-products, the top three categories are local heritage, natural landscapes, and active tourism by the sea. Family-oriented activities still hold a limited share of the total portfolio, suggesting an opportunity to expand and reinforce segmented offerings specialised in this segment ,or better highlight existing options suitable for families with children of different ages. In terms …

Turkish Airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation and revise Codeshare Agreement with a broadened scope. The MoU establishes a framework for enriched cooperation, including an expanded codeshare agreement. In addition to increased connectivity, the two carriers will explore joint initiatives in cargo interline services, aircraft leasing, catering, lounge access, maintenance and ground handling operations. Turkish Airlines and Air Algérie also plan to cooperate on environmental projects, sustainability initiatives, and training programs. The partnership aims to support business growth while fostering cultural, social, and economic exchange between Türkiye and Algeria. Agreements were signed by the Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi and Air Algérie CEO Hamza Benhamouda at Air Algérie’s Headquarters in Algiers with senior executives from both airlines in attendance. Commenting on the agreement, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi stated: “Our continuing partnership with Air Algérie reflects our commitment to long-term, sustainable collaboration. This agreement marks a key step in deepening ties between both airlines. As the airline flying to more countries than any other, we remain committed to expanding cooperation across multiple areas to provide greater benefits and options for our guests. We are confident this partnership will enrich cultural and economic connections between Türkiye and Algeria and drive mutual growth.” Air Algérie SpA CEO Hamza Benhamouda said: “We are honored to welcome the Turkish Airlines delegation to our headquarters in Algiers, as we continue to strengthen the ties between our two airlines and our two coutries. We are very pleased with this new milestone in our strategic partnership with Turkish Airlines. This comprehensive agreement, covering multiple areas of cooperation and the exchange of expertise, will undoubtedly bring mutual benefits to both our companies and to our …

Emirates has unveiled its highly acclaimed Premium Economy Cabin on flights EK372/373 between Dubai and Bangkok, operated by its newly retrofitted A380 aircraft. The latest product introduction reaffirms the airline’s ongoing investment to elevating travel experiences for customers travelling to and from Thailand and beyond. With the deployment of Emirates’ newly retrofitted A380 to Bangkok, the airline extends its Premium Economy experience to over 70 cities globally. Located at the front of the main deck, with 56 seats laid out in a 2-4-2 configuration, the Premium Economy cabin is designed to bridge the gap between Economy and Business Class. The award-winning cabin also has a generous 40-inch seat pitch, 8-inch recline, adjustable headrests, and full leg and footrests delivering enhanced comfort. Each seat is upholstered in luxurious anti-stain cream leather with fold-out woodgrain tables for dining or working. Passengers can enjoy enhanced in-flight entertainment with a 13.3-inch HD screen, Bluetooth pairing and other thoughtful tech touches. Dining is meticulously curated to reflect regional flavours and is served on Royal Doulton China, accompanied by an expanded beverage selection including vintage wines that are available throughout the flight. Bangkok joins Emirates’ expanding global network of Premium Economy destinations, following the cabin’s official launch in 2022. The airline’s retrofit programme is one of the largest known in the industry where 219 A380s and Boeing 777s are slated for full nose to tail refurbish. The airline is on track to offer nearly 2 million Premium Economy seats annually across its network by the end of 2025, doubling to 4 million by 2026. Travellers can enjoy a seamless, end-to-end Premium Economy experience by connecting to popular routes like New York, Lyon and London via Dubai. Premium …

Air India Express has announced new direct flights from Bengaluru to three major Middle East destinations: Jeddah and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. Services to Jeddah will begin on 26 October, followed by Riyadh and Kuwait on 27 October 2025, strengthening links between South India and the Gulf region. The new routes cater to Indian expatriates, business travellers, families, and pilgrims travelling for Umrah, providing convenient and time-saving options. Inaugural fares start at Rs 13,500 (505 SAR) for Bengaluru-Riyadh, Rs 19,500 (570 SAR) for Bengaluru-Jeddah, and Rs 13,600 (27 KWD) for Bengaluru-Kuwait. Passengers from cities including Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, and Tiruchirappalli can connect to these Middle East destinations via Bengaluru. This expansion reinforces Air India Express’ growing footprint in the Gulf, complementing its existing services to Abu Dhabi, Dammam, Jeddah, Kuwait, and Riyadh, and highlights the airline’s commitment to enhancing trade, travel, and cultural connectivity between South India and the Middle East.  

The workshop discussed the concepts and methodological frameworks for measuring tourism in line with international standards, along with mechanisms for linking statistical data and administrative records related to visitors and tourism expenditure. It also highlighted the importance of integrating national data sources to assess both the direct and indirect impact of tourism on GDP and employment. The event brought together experts and specialists from national statistical offices and tourism authorities across GCC member states, in addition to representatives from regional and international organisations. The regional workshop on ‘Measuring the Contribution of Tourism to the Economy’, hosted by the Gulf Cooperation Council Statistical Centre (GCC-Stat) concluded under the patronage of Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Omani Minister of Heritage and Tourism, underscored the importance of adopting comprehensive methodologies to measure tourism’s total contribution to the economy. Such an approach provides a more accurate and holistic picture of the sector’s true role in supporting GCC economies and assists in formulating effective, evidence-based policies founded on reliable statistical data. Al Mahrouqi stated that the workshop comes at a particularly significant time, as the tourism sector in the region is witnessing rapid growth and qualitative transformation in infrastructure, services, and investment. He noted that Oman and other GCC countries attach great importance to tourism as a central pillar of economic diversification, recognising its role in job creation, stimulating productive and service sectors, and enhancing sustainable development. However, he stressed that achieving this potential requires accurate and reliable statistical systems capable of measuring the true value of tourism’s contribution to GDP and to the national economy as a whole. He added that this workshop, organised by GCC-Stat, serves as a platform for experience sharing, capacity building, …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Frieze announced their partnership to evolve Abu Dhabi Art into Frieze Abu Dhabi, marking a new chapter in the emirate’s role on the global art calendar. For 17 years, Abu Dhabi Art has been a cornerstone of the region’s cultural landscape, establishing itself as a defining moment in the regional calendar. Anchored in the emirate’s world-class museums, dynamic artist residencies, and established institutions that nurture talent and emerging artists, the fair has built a reputation for credibility, while attracting an international collector base that reflects Abu Dhabi’s cosmopolitan spirit and global standing. The evolution into Frieze Abu Dhabi builds on that legacy, reinforcing the emirate’s long-term cultural vision while extending the fair’s reach through Frieze’s international networks and expertise. Anchored in its central role in the capital’s cultural life, the fair will continue an approach that remains rooted in discovery, dialogue and global perspectives. The collaboration represents the first major initiative under Frieze’s new ownership and reflects a shared ambition, underlining Abu Dhabi as a centre for culture and creativity, while giving Frieze a unique position in the Arabian Gulf’s most established art ecosystem. His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “For nearly two decades, Abu Dhabi Art has reflected our vision of culture as a driver of dialogue, connection, and creativity, supported by a vibrant ecosystem of museums, residencies, and institutions that nurture both established and emerging artists. The launch of Frieze Abu Dhabi is a natural evolution of that journey. It is rooted in the achievements of Abu Dhabi Art and will carry them …

These projects form part of a comprehensive strategic portfolio of 52 developments spanning 60 million sq. ft. across Sharjah, with total investments and partnerships exceeding AED 7.2 billion. The five projects that anchor Shurooq’s achievements in this sector are the Heart of Sharjah, House of Wisdom, Al Noor Island, Maraya Art Centre and 1971 Design Space, and Mleiha National Park. Collectively, they reflect Shurooq’s commitment to fostering a thriving cultural economy rooted in heritage, creativity, and sustainability. Over the past 15 years, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has advanced beyond traditional urban development to firmly establish Sharjah as a global centre for culture and the arts, a sustainable platform for knowledge, and a dynamic destination for the creative economy in the region. According to Shurooq’s recently issued 15-year progress report, the authority has delivered five major projects in the Arts & Culture sector, with total investments and partnerships amounting to AED 447 million. These are part of a comprehensive strategic portfolio that includes 52 projects across various sectors, spanning a total area of 60 million square feet throughout the emirate, with total investments and partnerships exceeding AED 7.2 billion. These efforts align with UNESCO reports, which emphasise that cultural and creative projects are a significant economic and social driver, contributing meaningfully to GDP, creating job opportunities, and strengthening social cohesion, while also having a positive impact on sustainable development. This underscores the sector’s strategic importance as a key element in supporting sustainable growth and economic diversification, particularly in cities that adopt cultural identity as a central part of their urban fabric. These investments also support the UAE’s drive to position the creative economy as a cornerstone of its …

Air India Express has unveiled a limited-time offer allowing passengers to enjoy 10kg excess baggage for only AED 1, providing exceptional value for travellers this season. The special offer can be availed exclusively during the booking flow and cannot be added once the ticket is issued, encouraging passengers to plan ahead and secure their savings early. Valid for sale until 31st October 2025 and for travel up to 30th November 2025, this initiative reinforces Air India Express’s commitment to offering affordable and passenger-friendly options, especially for guests travelling with additional luggage. Agents are encouraged to highlight this offer to customers seeking great value on their upcoming trips between the UAE and India, and to remind them that the AED 1 baggage add-on must be selected during the booking process. With this move, Air India Express continues to strengthen its appeal among cost-conscious travellers, delivering smart savings and convenience through its dynamic offers.