In 2025, several major airlines will introduce new routes connecting key countries across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Eurowings will offer a new service from Berlin to Abu Dhabi, while Dan Air will provide flights from Bucharest to Damascus. Additionally, Southwind Airlines will operate weekly flights from Turkey to Bahrain, and Middle East...
Tag: tourism sector
Shurooq Drives Sustainable Growth in Sharjah with $1.9 Billion Investment Across 52 Projects
The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced significant developments in its 15-year journey of sustainable growth, completing 52 projects that span over 60 million square feet across Sharjah. The total investment value for these initiatives is AED7.2 billion, achieved through strategic partnerships. Among these projects are three real estate developments totaling AED5 billion,...
Saudi Arabia’s Initiative to Localize 41 Tourism Professions Aims to Boost Employment
Saudi Arabia has announced a significant initiative to localize 41 professions within the tourism sector, aiming to enhance job opportunities for its citizens. This plan was disclosed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to empower local...
Saudi Arabia Launches VAT Refund Program for International Tourists
Saudi Arabia has introduced a new Value Added Tax (VAT) refund policy for tourists, which became effective on April 18, 2024. This initiative allows international visitors to reclaim the 15% VAT paid on eligible goods and services during their stay, marking a significant move to enhance the country’s appeal to global travelers. The Zakat, Tax...
DCT Abu Dhabi Aims for $17 Billion Contribution from Tourism Sector
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, the Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), announced that the tourism sector is set to contribute AED62 billion, approximately $17 billion, to the emirate’s economy in 2025. This figure represents a projected increase of 13 percent compared to the previous year. The long-term...
Etihad Airways to Launch Direct Flights from Abu Dhabi to Sochi
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,...





