As the Hajj 2025 season approaches, Saudi Arabia is intensifying preparations through significant infrastructure and service upgrades aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage experience for millions of worshipers. The Central Hajj Committee, led by the Deputy Emir of Mecca, Prince Saud bin Mishaal, convened to evaluate the readiness of facilities and services for pilgrims during Ramadan...
Abu Dhabi is making significant strides in boosting its tourism sector with the introduction of innovative initiatives aimed at enhancing its global appeal. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is leading this effort in collaboration with 40 partners and industry stakeholders, showcasing the emirate’s diverse tourism offerings at key...
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Etihad Airways have launched the new Abu Dhabi Pass, designed to enhance the experience for visitors to the emirate. This initiative was announced during the ITB Berlin event and aims to provide a comprehensive access ticket for various attractions and sights in...
The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has partnered with Trip.com Group to promote Ras Al Khaimah as a top destination for Chinese travellers. The two organizations formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Berlin on March 5, 2025. This partnership aims to enhance the visibility of Ras Al Khaimah...
China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are set to strengthen their ties with the launch of direct flights between Shanghai and Abu Dhabi, starting April 28. China Eastern Airlines will become the first Chinese airline to operate this route, marking a significant advancement in air connectivity between the two nations. The new Shanghai-Abu Dhabi...
The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) segment is currently driving an increase in business travel to key global locations, including the USA, Germany, France, UK, Spain, Singapore, Dubai, and Japan. This surge is largely attributed to corporations placing a higher value on in-person engagements, leading to a significant rise in demand for large-scale conferences,...
Airfare prices in the UAE are projected to rise by up to 50% as Eid Al Fitr 2025 coincides with the two-week spring break, creating unprecedented demand for travel. Experts indicate that the surge in fares could be between 40% and 50% due to the high volume of travelers seeking international flights during this peak...
In an effort to draw in international business owners, financiers, investors, and talented professionals, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has created a new visa category called the Business Opportunities Visa. For a maximum of 180 days, this visa permits eligible individuals to travel to the United Arab Emirates, where they can investigate investment prospects, conduct...
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced plans to introduce direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Sochi, a city in Russia renowned as the “Gateway to the Black Sea.” The new route is set to commence operations on May 29, 2025, with flights scheduled three times a week on Tuesdays,...
A significant increase in Thailand visa applications from Dubai has been observed over the past year, indicating a rising demand from travelers in the UAE. Data shows that applications have surged by approximately 20 percent, as Thailand gains popularity not only for leisure travel but also for business and medical tourism. Visitors have highlighted Thailand’s...