Tag Archives: Saudi Arabia

Oman Air has announced the launch of its first new route for 2026: Taif. Starting 31 January 2026, the service marks the airline’s fifth destination in Saudi and another milestone in the expansion of its regional network. The new flight will operate three days a week, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, using the Boeing 737, offering guests convenient flight timings alongside Oman Air’s signature service and hospitality. Commenting on the launch, Con Korfiatis, Chief Executive Officer of Oman Air, said, “Expanding into Taif represents a strategic step in our regional network growth and reinforces the strong economic and cultural ties between Oman and Saudi Arabia. It likewise enables us to better serve our guests by providing them with more choice and convenience.” Abdulkarim Al-Darwish, President of Middle East and Africa Markets at the Saudi Tourism Authority, also stated, “We welcome Oman Air’s new service to Taif, which marks a key step that enhances connectivity between our two countries and provides travelers from Oman with greater access to key destinations across Saudi. Expanding regional air links aligns with our broader mission to accelerate tourism growth and strengthen strategic partnerships” With the addition of Taif, Oman Air now operates five destinations to Saudi Arabia including Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam and Madinah, underscoring the airline’s commitment to enhancing intra-regional connectivity and supporting broader economic and social links. Guests can enjoy the best fares when booking on www.omanair.com or Oman Air’s mobile app.

Over 60 speakers from Russia, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, India, China, Malaysia, South Africa and other partner markets will discuss global trends, destination marketing, and the role of innovation in shaping future growth. In a special interview with TravTalkME, Anastasia Popova, Head of the Business Tourism Development Department, Moscow City Tourism Committee shared that they are looking at one of the largest MICE events in Moscow over the next two days bringing over 2000 delegates across the globe with Middle East as a key partner. The programme includes 15 sessions in various formats: strategic panels, expert lectures, case presentations, and practical masterclasses.  The first day focuses on strategy: organising large-scale international exhibitions, personalisation and gamification in event design, and how major events can become catalysts for destination development. The second day is dedicated to applied solutions — working with VIP clients, engaging Asian markets, scaling corporate projects, and exploring the future of MICE 5.0, including AI and neurotechnology. MGMC 2025 also offers strong networking opportunities. More than 3,200 B2B meetings are planned, while the exhibition zone will feature over 100 exhibitors from Russia, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, presenting venues, service providers, and destination capabilities. https://business.russpass.ru/en/projects-events/meet-global-mice-congress/mgmc-2025 Business tourism is a core pillar of Moscow’s Tourism Strategy 2030. The city is investing in the renewal of cultural and historical sites, expanding its portfolio of high-quality visitor attractions and launching large-scale, seasonally driven event programmes. These initiatives are designed to reinforce Moscow’s position as a leading global hub for international meetings and professional dialogue. As the city upgrades its MICE infrastructure, deepens international partnerships and introduces more innovative event formats, demand for major congresses in the Russian capital continues to …

The Arabian Travel Awards concluded its First Edition in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step forward in recognising and honouring top achievers within the Kingdom’s fast-growing travel, tourism, and hospitality sector. The event celebrated trailblazers, innovators, and organisations whose contributions are driving Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a world-class global destination. With the Kingdom’s tourism landscape evolving at record pace under Vision 2030, the inaugural edition aimed to spotlight excellence across airlines, hotels, travel agencies, technology providers, tourism boards, and service partners — shaping the future of travel in the region. The event was supported by TravTalk Middle East as the official media partner, bringing regional coverage and industry visibility to the award winners, participating brands, and the broader travel community. TravTalk Middle East’s partnership reinforces the shared mission of empowering industry talent, encouraging innovation, and amplifying Saudi Arabia’s tourism potential to global audiences. The First Arabian Travel Awards in Saudi Arabia represents the beginning of a new chapter — one that celebrates success stories, elevates standards, and strengthens the Kingdom’s position as a leading tourism hub.

Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hospitality management company in the Middle East and Africa, has secured the Tapestry Collection by Hilton brand for an upcoming 84-key hotel in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, owned by AREA Investment and Real Estate. This marks Aleph Hospitality’s third Tapestry Collection by Hilton property under management, further strengthening the company’s partnership with global hospitality company Hilton and expanding its footprint in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. AREA Investment and Real Estate’s franchise agreement with Hilton and management agreement with Aleph Hospitality marks an important milestone for the firm as they continue to invest in high-quality hospitality assets that contribute to the region’s growing tourism sector. Scheduled to open in 2027, the hotel will be part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton’s portfolio of independent boutique hotels, each rich in cultural charm and deeply connected to its destination. With vibrant designs and one-of-a-kind experiences, the hotel will also be part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty programme. Tariq Dowidar, Vice President Saudi Arabia, Aleph Hospitality, said: “We have a longstanding and close relationship with Hilton, founded on our shared commitment to excellence and innovation. Together, our goal is to deliver exceptional guest experiences while maximising operational performance and value for the owners.” Carlos Khneisser, Chief Development Officer, MEA, Hilton, said: “We are delighted to partner with AREA Investment and Real Estate to debut the first Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Dammam, managed by Aleph Hospitality. Demand for lifestyle hotels continues to rise, and we remain committed to growing our presence across the Kingdom, with over 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline. Tapestry Collection offers guests an authentic, and unique stay experience, and we are excited …

Rafal Real Estate Development Company and Rove Hotels announced a strategic partnership to develop multiple Rove Hotels properties in the Saudi capital. Rove Hotels is a dynamic, award-winning lifestyle brand that has rapidly emerged as one of the fastest-growing hospitality brands in the Middle East. Born in Dubai as a joint venture between Emaar Properties and Dubai Holding, Rove already boasts over 8,000 keys open or under development. The brand is defined by its smart, vibrant design, seamless and fuss-free service culture, and a robust commitment to sustainability, appealing to the modern traveller seeking both style and substance. The signing ceremony, which took place in Riyadh, officially marks the Rove brand’s expansion into the Saudi Arabian market, with plans for future cities to follow. Under the agreement, the partners will bring Rove’s well-loved lifestyle concept to key, high-growth locations across Riyadh, with the first opening location set to be on Olaya Street. Locations are thoughtfully positioned to serve both business and leisure travellers, catering to the city’s dynamic growth. “This expansion represents a significant milestone and an important step forward. We are proud to be part of Rove and Rafal in shaping a new chapter for lifestyle-driven hospitality in Saudi Arabia,” said Saad Hussain of Alaia Developments. “We are delighted to introduce one of the region’s smartest hotel concepts to Riyadh,” said Elias Abou Samra, CEO of Rafal Real Estate Development Company. “Our confidence stems from the depth and track record of Rove Hotels in tailoring hospitality for regional guests, and from the strong connectivity between Riyadh and Dubai that underpins sustained demand from both leisure and business travellers. This partnership is a cornerstone of our strategy to bring innovative …

Hatim Al Harbi is a transformation-driven leader who turns bold visions into tangible realities. With 20 years of experience spanning government transformation, tourism development, and entrepreneurship, he has built systems, teams, and platforms that redefine regional impact. As Chief of Tourism at the Aseer Development Authority, Alharbi established Saudi Arabia’s first regional Destination Marketing & Management Office (DMMO), later expanding it into a full tourism sector that achieved 26% growth in visitor numbers and gained global recognition through UN Tourism, GSTC, and PATA. His approach combines visionary thinking with practical execution building what doesn’t exist and leading what truly matters. Beyond government leadership, Alharbi has co-founded ventures in digital, fintech, and F&B, embodying the spirit of innovation that drives Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transformation.

The latest addition to Rixos Hotels’ All-Inclusive portfolio is Rixos Murjana. This expansive property situated in King Abdullah Economic City presents the Kingdom’s largest kids club, the most thrilling integrated waterpark, the finest wellness rituals, gourmet dining, and so much more. Set along the untouched shores of the Red Sea, the soon-to-open Rixos Murjana is a self-contained paradise where everything you desire is effortlessly within reach. Consistently offering guests hospitality experiences that transcend the ordinary, this new Rixos Hotels’ property in Saudi Arabia is set to redefine hotel stays in the Kingdom. Spanning 275,000 square metres, the very best of indulgence, relaxation, and adventure come together in an All-Inclusive experience like no other – all-encompassing, uncompromising, and unmatched. As Saudi Arabia’s largest all-inclusive resort, every detail has been carefully crafted to create extraordinary stays for all ages. Complete with personalised service, contemporary comfort, and captivating Hijazi architecture that blurs the lines between elegant interiors and stunning coastline, Rixos Murjana allows every moment to flow seamlessly. Among its standout features are the serene, Maldivian-inspired overwater villas at Club Privé, offering a truly elevated escape, alongside 488 beautifully appointed rooms and suites tailored to every style of stay. Guests can savour their stay at their own pace by lounging on the 600-metre private beach, indulging in rejuvenating treatments at Anjana Spa, enjoying immersive live entertainment, or joining expert-led fitness classes at Exclusive Sports Club. At the heart of the resort’s offerings is a curated culinary journey: from global flavours at Terra Mare’s international buffet, to exquisite steaks at Alâ Aksam, and Mediterranean charm at MykOrini, inspired by the spirit of Mykonos and Santorini. Guests can also enjoy the relaxed elegance of Piazzetta …

Mantis – Accor’s conservation-focused hospitality brand – announced the signing of Basiqat by Mantis, an eco-luxury resort in Al Uyaynah, 40 minutes from central Riyadh, developed by design&build in partnership with GIB Capital and the Tourism Development Fund (TDF). The hotel development, Basiqat by Mantis, will comprise two distinct sites, with the entire complex scheduled to open at the end of 2026. It will feature a total of 218 keys, including 90 suites, 66 villas, 10 Zad Palace Suites, and 52 desert tents. The amenities will include thoughtfully designed dining venues, landscaped gardens, a full hydro spa with separate male and female facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, beauty salons, a yoga pavilion and a health café. The development will also include a souk, a dedicated kids club and event and conference spaces, offering a combination of luxury and cultural immersion for families, travellers and corporate guests alike. Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 reforms, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to the world, transforming into a must-visit destination for luxury seekers and culture enthusiasts. Driving this transformation, pioneering hospitality brands such as Mantis are turning ambition into reality offering guests immersive encounters with Saudi Arabia’s landscapes, culture, and heritage while setting new benchmarks for sustainable and experiential adventure. True to Mantis’ philosophy of harmony between Man and Nature, Basiqat will champion sustainable, cultural and authentic connections with the environment. “The signing of Basiqat by Mantis marks an exciting milestone in our journey across the GCC,” said Craig Erasmus, CEO, Mantis Collection. “This project embodies our philosophy of responsible luxury, expressed through design and experiences that celebrate Saudi Arabia’s rich culture and heritage. Basiqat by Mantis …

Bringing the public and private sector together over three days the inaugural future of tourism event titled, TOURISE concluded establishing new benchmarks. The event welcomed 9654 delegates from across the world. At the closing ceremony HE Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of tourism Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced that the inaugural event conducted 1150 meetings with 67 sessions with 130 plus speakers. He further shared that the second will be held in March 2027 after listening to the comments and suggestions. It was one of the most unique events which provided the visitors to experience first hand some of the key projects coming up in the future in Saudi Arabia, some of the hidden gems hitherto unknown. The event brought together over 50 tourism ministers, private investors, and NGOs from around the world. The event aims to create a platform where governments, private businesses, and organisations can collaborate on the future of global tourism. The minister further iterated that the event was the fruit of two years of planning to bring about a new form of event which brings in players which support the tourism ecosystem.

Under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism Saudi Arabia (MoT) and TOURISE 2025, Shaza Hotels has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for four new projects – Shaza Riyadh Stables Resort, Mysk Residences in Riyadh and Mysk Al Haramain Hotels – 3 & 4 in Makkah – during the inaugural TOURISE 2025 summit, held from 11 to 13 November 2025 in Riyadh. The signings represent a significant step in Shaza Hotels’ expansion across the Kingdom and underscore the brand’s alignment with Saudi Arabia’s long-term vision 2030 to advance tourism and destination development. Shaza also announced an ambitious pipeline of USD 950 million worth projects across the globe in key destinations like Maldives, Turkey, Kuwait, Indonesia, Iraq, USA, Kenya and Libya at TOURISE 2025. Shaza proudly partners with region’s reputed investment houses like Al Rajhi Investments Saudi Arabia, Adante Realty LLC Oman and FSM Hospitality Company Saudi Arabia in bringing these projects live and functional. Commenting on the development, Mr. Simon Coombs, President and CEO of Shaza Hotels, said: “We are pleased to be part of TOURISE 2025 under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism for the signing of four new MoUs that reflect the strength and diversity of Saudi Arabia’s hospitality landscape. Each project – Mysk Residences Riyadh, Shaza Riyadh Stables Resort, and Mysk Al Haramain Hotels – 3 & 4 in Makkah – has been conceived to address distinct guest segments, from business and leisure travellers to long-stay residents and pilgrims. These partnerships underline Shaza Hotels’ expanding presence in the Kingdom and our commitment to working with visionary owners to deliver authentic experiences and world-class hospitality.” “Each of these four developments has been strategically conceived to harness key …