News

Saudi Arabia’s Airports Witness A Powerful Surge Of Over Three Million Pilgrims In Ramadan

Over 3.4 million travelers, including pilgrims, passed through Saudi Arabia’s airports in the first 18 days of Ramadan, according to data from airport operators. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina, Prince Abdulmohsen bin Abdulaziz Airport in Yanbu, and Taif Airport all saw significant traffic, as reported by Matarat Holding Company. Matarat manages 27 airports across Saudi Arabia. This surge in travel aligns with Ramadan, which started on March 1, 2025, and marks the peak period for Umrah pilgrimage at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, the holiest site in Islam, while Medina hosts the second holiest site, the Prophet’s Mosque.

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Etihad Boosts UAE Aviation with Emirati Workforce Growth & Leadership Programs

Etihad Airways has launched a transformative UAE National Talent Development Strategy, a pioneering initiative designed to empower Emirati professionals, foster local expertise, and solidify the airline’s status as the employer of choice for UAE Nationals. This strategy aligns with the UAE’s ambitious aviation expansion plans, ensuring that Emiratis play a central role in the industry’s future. With the UAE’s aviation sector experiencing unprecedented growth, Etihad is proactively positioning itself as a catalyst for talent development. The new initiative aims to significantly increase the recruitment of UAE Nationals across all airline divisions while providing structured career paths in both aviation and corporate functions. Driving Emirati Workforce Growth in a Rapidly Expanding Industry Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves emphasized the critical role of Emirati talent in the airline’s ambitious growth strategy. He outlined a bold vision for the future, including: Doubling the airline’s fleet by 2030 Expanding its network to over 125 global destinations Tripling passenger numbers within the decade To achieve these goals, Etihad is investing heavily in Emirati workforce expansion, with plans to increase the number of UAE Nationals by over 50% within five years. The initiative will ensure that local talent drives the airline’s long-term success and remains integral to the UAE’s economic growth.

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Singapore, Etihad, Emirates & More Redefine Premium Business Class Travel

For those seeking the pinnacle of comfort and luxury in air travel, business class has evolved into a remarkable experience that goes far beyond just premium seating. Airlines around the world are continuously innovating to provide a level of service, dining, and comfort that elevates the travel experience to new heights. From spacious lie-flat seats to exquisite in-flight meals, business class has become synonymous with elegance and relaxation. This article explores the finest business class offerings available today, comparing the top airlines on key aspects such as seating comfort, in-flight entertainment, dining options, and overall passenger experience. As business class continues to evolve, airlines have set the bar high, offering services that rival past first-class offerings with features such as private suites, gourmet cuisine, and luxurious amenities. The business class experience has transformed dramatically in recent years, with airlines offering a range of services that rival traditional first-class offerings. Qatar Airways, Japan Airlines, and All Nippon Airways remain leaders in the industry, offering innovative seating and exceptional service. Meanwhile, carriers like Singapore Airlines, Etihad Airways, and Emirates continue to impress with luxurious cabins and personalized service. Regardless of your preference—whether it’s outstanding seating, gourmet meals, or world-class service—these airlines provide an unparalleled travel experience for the discerning passenger.

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Air India-Air New Zealand Ink Codeshare Deal, Eye Direct Flights by 2028

Air India has signed an agreement with Air New Zealand to introduce a codeshare partnership on 16 routes spanning India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. Indian travelers from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai will soon be able to connect via Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore on Air New Zealand flights to Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown. Air India has recently expanded its codeshare partnerships with Lufthansa Group, Singapore Airlines, Virgin Australia and All Nippon Airways. The agreement with Air New Zealand was formalized at an event in Mumbai on Wednesday night during the visit of New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to India. One of the most significant aspects of the deal is a commitment to explore the feasibility of a direct flight service between India and New Zealand by 2028. “This partnership will not only strengthen our presence and simplify customer journeys, but also help us develop traffic so that, in time to come, we may viably operate a non-stop service between India and New Zealand, which we and Air New Zealand have committed to explore together with the respective authorities,” Campbell Wilson, managing director and CEO of Air India, said.

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Edinburgh’s Historic Debut As Host Of The 2027 Tour De France

In 2027, the prestigious Tour de France will kick off in Edinburgh for the very first time, with the opening three stages set to unfold across Scotland, England, and Wales. The 2027 edition of the Tour de France will kick off in Edinburgh, marking the first time the race begins in the Scottish capital. The opening three stages will cover Scotland, England, and Wales, as announced by the organisers, ASO, during a ceremony in Edinburgh on March 19. Additionally, the women’s Tour de France will also begin in Britain in 2027, though the exact location has yet to be disclosed. This will be the third time the men’s Tour starts in the United Kingdom. Previous Grand Depart events took place in England—London hosted the start of the 2007 edition, and Yorkshire was the starting point in 2014. The 2027 event will introduce stages in Scotland and Wales for the first time ever. Tour de France 2027 to begin in Edinburgh: Key details to know. In 2022, the ASO organizers made use of an exemption to hold the Tour de France start in Copenhagen on a day other than Saturday. They will apply this same exemption in 2027, setting the race’s start date for Friday, July 2, 2027, to accommodate three full stages in the United Kingdom.

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Kerala’s ‘Look East’ Campaign Set To Drive Foreign Tourism Growth In India

Kerala Tourism is launching a unique marketing initiative called ‘Look East,’ targeting eight countries in the eastern region, such as China and Australia, to boost tourism to the state. Kerala is turning to the eastern region to revive its declining foreign tourist numbers, which currently stand at only 62% of the pre-pandemic levels. Kerala Tourism is launching a targeted marketing campaign called ‘Look East’ across eight countries, from China to Australia, with the aim of drawing more tourists to the state. Despite China holding a significant share of the Asian tourism market, Kerala has seen minimal visitors from there. Kerala has introduced a dedicated ‘Kerala itinerary’ for international travelers, with Arab nations, particularly Dubai and Doha, serving as key transit hubs to the state. The region has also become a popular wellness tourism destination for foreigners. Senior officials from the Tourism Department suggest that collaborating with airlines in select regions will help attract more visitors to Kerala. The U.K. and U.S. remain the top two markets, making up nearly 28% of the state’s total tourist arrivals. According to 2024 statistics, Australia and Malaysia have made it to the top 10 list of countries from the eastern region.

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