News

Mangaluru Airport Aims for Seamless Connectivity in Summer 2025 with Additional Bengaluru Flights and Direct Gulf Services

Mangaluru International Airport is set to strengthen its air network this summer, unveiling an upgraded schedule that significantly enhances connectivity to Bengaluru and key domestic and international destinations. The new summer flight plan kicks off on March 30, 2025, and includes a noticeable rise in flight frequency. Bengaluru Route Sees Daily Flight Increase Beginning with eight daily flights to Bengaluru, Mangaluru Airport is primed to handle more passenger traffic between the coastal city and Karnataka’s capital. Starting May 23, 2025, the frequency will further rise to nine daily flights, with IndiGo Airlines introducing an additional service to meet rising demand. Currently, the route features seven daily flights, with IndiGo operating five and Air India Express running two. Under the new schedule: IndiGo will operate six daily flights initially, increasing to seven by late May Air India Express will continue with its two daily flights

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Indonesia Holiday Updates: Eid & Nyepi Impact Business Hours & Visas

As Indonesia prepares to celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Bali observes Nyepi, tourists on the island are being advised to plan ahead due to changes in business hours and visa processing schedules. The upcoming holidays will temporarily affect immigration services, including visa extensions and passport applications, requiring travelers to complete their processes before the holiday period. With government offices and businesses adjusting to the celebrations, it’s crucial for tourists to stay informed about the modified procedures to avoid any travel disruptions and ensure a smooth stay in Bali during this festive season. As the island of Bali and Indonesia prepare for the dual celebrations of Eid al-Fitr and Nyepi, travelers and residents alike are being urged to adjust their plans to accommodate temporary changes in business hours and government operations. The coming week promises to be one of celebration and reverence, but it will also affect how services are provided, particularly regarding immigration procedures, business operations, and the scheduling of public services. In line with the festive observances, Indonesia’s Immigration Department has officially announced the temporary closure of visa processing services for the duration of the Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr holidays. This interruption will impact both incoming and outgoing visa procedures, including passport applications, residency permits, and general immigration-related tasks, as businesses and government agencies adjust to the holiday period.

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Singapore Targets India’s High-Yield Travelers in New Tourism Push

Singapore aims to capture a larger share of India’s outbound tourism market by focusing on high-yield travelers through a strategic partnership with Changi and Sentosa. As India’s outbound tourism continues to grow, Singapore is aiming to capture a larger slice of this expanding market. To achieve this, it has shifted focus toward attracting high-yield travelers through a newly established strategic partnership. The Singapore Tourism Board has teamed up with Changi Airport Group and Sentosa Development Corporation in a unique, year-long collaboration aimed at boosting the visibility of Singapore’s brand in the Indian travel market. This tripartite partnership, the first of its kind, will also focus on engaging with India’s travel trade community. The partnership places a particular emphasis on attracting affluent Indian travelers, as stated by the Singapore Tourism Board. As part of the initiative, 30 Indian digital influencers will be invited to experience and promote various Singapore attractions, including Sentosa Island and Changi Airport.

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Oman Aims to Boost Tourism, Targeting 3%+ GDP Contribution by 2030

Oman tourism sector is set to contribute 3.5% to the GDP by 2030, supporting economic diversification and aligning with the goals of Vision 2040. On Monday, the Majlis Ash’shura hosted Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, during its 8th regular session of the second sitting in the 10th term. The session covered a variety of topics including the ministry’s policies, plans, and programs, alongside key developments in the tourism and heritage sectors, such as human resources management, investment coordination, and future prospects. The session was chaired by Khalid bin Hilal al Maawali, Chairman of the Majlis Ash’shura. The minister highlighted the ministry’s focus on six critical areas. He emphasized the efforts made during the Tenth Five-Year Plan, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 goals, specifically aiming at economic diversification and enhancing the country’s GDP. Abdullah al Harthy, Chairman of the Media, Tourism, and Culture Committee, acknowledged the sector’s role as a key enabler of the national economy, hoping tourism would become a major contributor post-oil. He pointed to the current 2.5% contribution to the economy and expressed aspirations to increase this to 10% as per Oman Vision 2040, emphasizing the importance of job creation and economic stimulation through the ministry’s initiatives.

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Marriott & Abu Dhabi National Hotels to Launch Luxury Collection in Ras Al Khaimah

Marriott International and Abu Dhabi National Hotels have teamed up to bring The Luxury Collection brand to Ras Al Khaimah, enhancing the emirate’s luxury hospitality scene. Marriott International, Inc. has partnered with Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH) to unveil a luxury resort and residential project under The Luxury Collection brand in Ras Al Khaimah. Located on Al Marjan Island, a premier development in the emirate, this resort promises to offer the brand’s unique interpretation of luxury, elevating the living experience for its residents. The Luxury Collection Resort, planned for Al Marjan Island, will feature 466 meticulously designed rooms and suites, along with 29 spacious villas. The resort will boast a variety of dining options, a full-service spa, fitness facilities, a children’s club, a swimming pool, and a padel court. Additionally, it will offer over 3,500 square meters of event space, including a grand 1,300-square-meter ballroom. As part of this development, the project will include exclusive residences, comprising 392 apartments ranging from one to five bedrooms, and 55 high-end villas. These residences will offer access to a variety of luxury resort services, ensuring a premium lifestyle for their occupants.

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Thailand hosts the 43rd Tourism Festival ,promising sustainability, immersive experiences and net-zero carbon travel

Experience the 43rd Thailand Tourism Festival from March 26-30, 2025, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, celebrating culture, sustainability, and tourism. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is excited to present the 43rd edition of the Thailand Tourism Festival 2025, taking place from March 26 to March 30, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. Admission to the event is free. This year, the festival celebrates Thailand’s tourism offerings under the theme “5 Must-Do Experiences in Thailand,” coupled with the concept of Carbon Neutral Tourism, as part of the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sport Year 2025.” According to TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, this year’s festival is a major event aimed at inspiring travel, creating unforgettable experiences, and encouraging domestic tourism throughout the year. TAT anticipates approximately 130,000 visitors over the five-day period, with a projected 45 million impressions.

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