International News

International News

Spain Emerges as a Popular Destination for GCC Tourists

The Spanish Tourism Board in the GCC region has reported a significant increase in tourist arrivals from this area in 2023, indicating Spain's growing popularity as an attractive tourist destination for GCC residents. The notable surge mainly stemmed from countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Spain's allure lies in its cultural diversity, historical attractions, stunning beaches, and favorable climate, with expectations for increased demand for travel to Spain from the GCC in 2024. The lifting of travel restrictions, the increase in direct flights, and the introduction of new attractions are expected to contribute to this upward trend.

Create: Apr 2, 2024 Edit: Apr 2, 2024

PIF unit teams up with Saudi agritourism company

Dan Company, a subsidiary of the Saudi Public Investment Fund specializing in agritourism, ecotourism, and adventure tourism, has signed a memorandum of understanding with AMATC company. This collaboration includes the development and enhancement of ecotourism lodges, tourist farms, and other unique accommodation options in various regions of Saudi Arabia. The two companies will collaborate to provide diverse tourism services to travelers, including specialized tours, recreational and educational programs, and support services. Additionally, joint investment in the development of tourism infrastructure, such as building tourist camps, hiking and biking trails, and other recreational facilities, is another provision of this memorandum of understanding.The signing of this memorandum is considered a significant step towards the development of Saudi Arabia's tourism industry and the realization of the country's Vision 2030.

Create: Apr 2, 2024 Edit: Apr 2, 2024

Black Sea Coasts Becoming Summer Tourist Hotspots

Recent studies indicate a shifting trend among summer tourists, as they move from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea coasts due to climate changes. Rising temperatures and decreasing comfort in tropical regions are driving this change. Certain northern regions are poised to become new tourist destinations, offering year-round appeal. Weather plays a pivotal role in destination selection, impacting travel patterns and tourism demand. Climate variations significantly influence travel preferences and behaviors.

Create: Mar 8, 2024 Edit: Mar 8, 2024

Travellers Prioritize Sustainable Destinations

Reports indicate a rise in travel expenses and a greater emphasis on environmental issues among Emirati and Saudi travellers. According to these reports, travellers are now significantly incorporating sustainability considerations into their travel plans and are willing to pay over 20 percent extra for stays in eco-friendly accommodations. Furthermore, artificial intelligence technology is increasingly becoming a key tool for travel planning, more accessible to Emirati and Saudi travellers.

Create: Mar 8, 2024 Edit: Mar 8, 2024

Tourism and Hospitality in South Africa Requires Government Support

The tourism sector, contributing 7.6% to the country's gross domestic product, plays a vital role in economic growth. Despite these successes, inadequate road infrastructure and accessibility issues to tourist attractions have hindered the industry's growth. Investing in regional airport infrastructure and improving access routes can significantly boost domestic tourism.Moreover, better collaboration between the government and the hospitality industry can lead to the creation of numerous jobs and help reduce unemployment.

Create: Mar 8, 2024 Edit: Mar 8, 2024

New Record for Air Arabia in Profitability and Passenger Numbers

Air Arabia Airlines, recognized as the leading budget airline in the Middle East and North Africa, achieved a new record in passenger numbers and profitability in 2023, transporting 58.4 million passengers. The company experienced a 12.7% increase in passenger traffic and approximately a 14.5% rise in operational revenue last year. The CEO of the company stated: "We are thrilled with this outstanding achievement, which demonstrates Air Arabia' commitment to providing quality and cost-effective services to passengers.""We are committed to further growth in the coming years through investment in our fleet and expanding our flight network," he added. Currently, Air Arabia Airlines operates flights to 170 destinations across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and Asia.

Create: Mar 8, 2024 Edit: Mar 8, 2024

Istanbul Airport Declares 2024 as the "Year of Investment"

Istanbul International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, has named 2024 as the "Investment Year."The airport's management has announced a €160 million investment in 2023 and has set a target of €656 million for 2024. With an increase in the number of passengers and flights in 2024, Istanbul Airport aims to continue its growth trajectory. The airport's goal is to attract 85 million passengers in 2024.

Create: Mar 8, 2024 Edit: Mar 8, 2024

Rise in Russian Tourists Visiting the Aegean Sea Coast

The Association of Tour Operators of Russia has reported an 8.1% increase in the number of tourists from this country traveling to the Caspian Sea coast in 2023 compared to the previous year. Popular destinations in Turkey on the Caspian Sea coast, including Dalaman, Marmaris, and Fethiye, hosted 391,000 tourists in 2023, indicating significant growth in the tourism industry in this region. Russian tour operators predict that demand for travel by Russian tourists to the Caspian Sea coast will continue to increase in 2024, despite the potential shortage of accommodation in quality five-star hotels.

Create: Mar 8, 2024 Edit: Mar 8, 2024

Artificial Intelligence Boosts the Tourism and Travel Industry

A new report from the World Travel and Tourism Council and Microsoft predicts the transformative power of artificial intelligence in the tourism and travel industry, promising an unparalleled experience for customers. This report redefines travel and tourism standards and calls for greater integration of these technologies into the industry.According to the report, tourism and travel businesses are encouraged to prioritize artificial intelligence as a strategic priority and make significant investments in fostering collaboration between humans and artificial intelligence. The World Travel and Tourism Council believes that artificial intelligence can play a pivotal role in providing personalized and advanced experiences for travelers both now and in the future.By analyzing traveler data, optimizing pricing strategies through real-time adjustments, and providing instant responses and precise interactions through advanced chatbots, this technology can enhance personalized recommendations and marketing strategies.

Create: Feb 28, 2024 Edit: Feb 28, 2024

Swiss Airline Evolving to Meet New Market Demands

Swiss Airline is currently taking steps to address the evolving needs of the market. The airline industry is on the verge of transformation. With the emergence of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, demographic shifts, and increasing demand for new flight experiences, the industry requires a rethink and reassessment of its business practices. As part of the Lufthansa Group, Swiss Airline is planning a fundamental overhaul of its fleet, both by adding new aircraft and by offering new experiences to its existing services. The main focus of Swiss Airline's new product offering is a completely redesigned cabin for its long-haul aircraft fleet. Currently, Swiss Airline operates flights to over 100 destinations worldwide. The airline transported over 19 million passengers in 2019.

Create: Feb 28, 2024 Edit: Feb 28, 2024

Gen Z Drives Outbound Travel Growth in the Gulf Region

With a forecast of significant growth, the outbound travel market of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is expected to reach $57.5 billion by 2028. This increase is primarily due to rapid growth in outbound tourism in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, indicating an increasing inclination of people in this region to travel abroad. Moreover, Generation Z is recognized as the vanguards of this growth. This generation increasingly utilizes the "Bleisure" trend, a combination of business and leisure, to create a balance between their personal and professional lives.‌

Create: Feb 28, 2024 Edit: Feb 28, 2024

Qatar to Host 80 Major Cultural, Sports and Scientific Events

In 2024, Qatar will transform into a global focal point by hosting 80 significant cultural, sports, and scientific events.Organized by the Qatar Tourism Authority, these events provide a unique opportunity for visitors from around the world to experience Qatar's cultural diversity, creativity, and innovation. The comprehensive calendar for the year 2024 in Qatar, recently released by the Qatar Tourism Authority, encompasses a wide spectrum of events in various fields.Hosting these events provides Qatar with an unparalleled opportunity to emerge as a global tourist destination and showcase its cultural diversity, creativity, and innovation to the world)

Create: Feb 28, 2024 Edit: Feb 28, 2024