News

Etihad and Air Cambodia Enhance Access to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat

Etihad Airways and Air Cambodia have joined forces to offer travelers a seamless journey to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, making it easier than ever to explore Cambodia’s ancient wonders. This exciting new codeshare partnership combines the global network of Etihad Airways with the regional expertise of Air Cambodia, providing a single booking experience that eliminates the hassle of multiple reservations and transfers. As a result, travelers can now enjoy a smoother, more efficient travel to one of the world’s most iconic and culturally significant destinations. Cambodia, a country rich in culture and history, is about to become even more accessible for travelers worldwide. Etihad Airways has partnered with Air Cambodia in a landmark codeshare agreement that is set to revolutionize travel to Siem Reap and the iconic Angkor Wat. This collaboration not only enhances travel connectivity between Southeast Asia and the rest of the world, but also provides a seamless and convenient journey for those eager to explore the ancient wonders of Cambodia. Let’s delve into how this partnership is changing the face of travel to one of the most significant cultural destinations on the globe.

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Middle East Tourism Expands as Saudi Arabia Drives Regional Growth

In recent years, tourism in the Middle East has experienced remarkable growth, with Saudi Arabia at the forefront, leading the region’s tourism boom at nearly double the global rate. As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia strives to diversify its economy away from oil dependency, the tourism sector has become a key player in this transformation. The government’s ambitious initiatives, paired with its rich cultural heritage, have positioned Saudi Arabia as a leading destination in the Middle East. According to reports from the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH), the growth in tourism within the Kingdom and the wider Middle East has outpaced global averages, attracting travelers from around the world. Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Growth: Setting New Standards Saudi Arabia has experienced tourism growth at an exceptional rate, with figures reported by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) showing that the country’s tourism sector is growing at nearly twice the global rate. This is a significant achievement, especially considering that the global tourism industry faced major challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the past few years. According to official data from the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia’s GDP contribution from tourism grew by an impressive 10% year-over-year. The country’s tourist arrivals increased significantly in the past two years, with a marked uptick following the easing of travel restrictions.

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Saudi Arabia Leads Middle East Tourism Growth Surge

The global travel landscape is shifting, and the epicenter of this transformation is currently the Middle East. According to the latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the region’s travel & tourism sector is not just recovering—it’s thriving. Expanding by 5.3% in 2025, the Middle East has comfortably outpaced the global average growth rate of 4.1%, signaling a new era of dominance in international travel. At the heart of this explosive growth is Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom is currently fueling regional progress at nearly twice the global pace, positioning itself as the undisputed leader of the Middle Eastern tourism market. A Regional Powerhouse in Numbers In 2025, the Middle East’s Travel & Tourism sector contributed a staggering $385.8 billion to the regional GDP. This economic engine now supports over 7.1 million jobs, underscoring its vital role in the region’s move away from oil-dependency.

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Emirates Expands UK Connectivity with Enhanced Flight Schedule

In May 2026, Manchester will join Edinburgh, London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Birmingham, Glasgow, and Newcastle in benefiting from Emirates’ enhanced flight schedule, featuring daily services on the Airbus A380, Boeing 777, and Airbus A350. This expansion is a response to the growing demand for both business and leisure travel, offering passengers increased flexibility and access to Emirates’ renowned premium services. The introduction of these aircraft ensures more options for travellers, whether they’re seeking the luxury of the A380 with its First Class suites or the fuel-efficient A350. With this new schedule, Emirates reinforces its commitment to connecting the UK to Dubai and global destinations, providing an elevated travel experience for passengers across key UK cities. Emirates Expands UK Flight Options for May 2026 Emirates’ revamped flight schedule for May 2026 will see key UK cities—Manchester, Edinburgh, London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Birmingham, Glasgow, and Newcastle—benefit from enhanced services and increased frequencies. The new schedule brings a combination of daily flights on some of the most sought-after aircraft in the skies, designed to provide premium travel experiences for both business and leisure passengers. A380 Services: The Flagship Aircraft for Premium Travel London Heathrow will remain Emirates’ busiest UK airport, with six daily Airbus A380 flights to Dubai, operating as the flagship aircraft for the airline’s long-haul routes. Known for its dual-deck design, the A380 provides unmatched luxury and comfort. The aircraft features First Class suites with private cabins and showers, Business Class pods, and an expansive Economy Class offering with extra legroom. The Airbus A380 remains the epitome of comfort for passengers traveling between the UK and Dubai, offering a truly premium experience. Other UK airports that will benefit from A380 services in May 2026 include Manchester, Birmingham, and London Gatwick. Manchester will see three daily flights between Dubai and Manchester, while Birmingham will receive daily A380 flights, ensuring passengers have ample options for their travel.

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Goa Showcases MICE Potential at Great Indian Travel Bazaar 2026

Goa, India’s premier tourist destination, is embarking on a new journey to expand its appeal by tapping into the rapidly growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism segment. The state will participate in the Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB) in Jaipur, held from April 26–28, 2026, with the strategic goal of enhancing its recognition as a global business events destination. Goa’s Transition from Leisure to Business Tourism Goa has long been celebrated for its sun-soaked beaches, lively culture, and scenic charm, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. However, in recent years, the state has been focusing its efforts on diversifying its tourism offerings. While Goa will always be a haven for leisure travellers, the state is now keen to position itself as a competitive destination for MICE tourism. This growing segment is becoming a vital part of India’s tourism landscape, accounting for around 60% of total tourism spending. The MICE industry in India is valued at $4.3 billion, and experts predict this figure will rise significantly in the coming years. Goa is keen to take advantage of this growth, shifting its focus from traditional leisure travel to business tourism that thrives throughout the year. By participating in events like GITB, Goa is strategically aiming to secure its place in the international MICE market.

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Flynas Unveils Hajj 2026 Plan with Expanded Makkah Connectivity

The strategic commencement of the Hajj 2026 operational plan has been officially declared by flynas, a prominent low-cost airline headquartered in the Middle East. This comprehensive logistical undertaking is designed to facilitate the transport of more than 147,000 pilgrims hailing from 18 countries during the upcoming Hajj season 1447H. To ensure the successful execution of such a massive endeavor, the expansion of the fleet has been prioritized alongside the scaling up of operations across primary hubs. These essential operational bases are located in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah, serving as the central pillars for the airline’s regional and international connectivity. Expansion of Fleet and Operational Infrastructure The scale of the mission for the 1447H season is supported by a significant increase in the technical and physical resources of the carrier. It is observed that the growth in passenger capacity is directly linked to the deliberate acquisition of new aircraft and the optimization of existing flight paths. By leveraging the strategic positions of the four main operational bases in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a seamless transition for international travelers is anticipated. The readiness of these facilities in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah is considered vital for managing the anticipated influx of tens of thousands of visitors who are traveling for religious purposes. A significant investment in infrastructure has been noted, ensuring that the airline remains capable of meeting the rigorous demands of the pilgrimage season. The technical teams and ground staff at these four major hubs are expected to work in coordination to minimize transit times and enhance the overall reliability of the flight schedules. This system scaling is intended to provide a robust framework that can accommodate the unique surges in traffic that define the Hajj period. Geographical Reach and International Connectivity The operational scope for this year is marked by a vast geographical footprint, encompassing several continents and a diverse array of nations. During the Hajj season, services are scheduled to be provided to destinations in 18 specific countries. These nations include Morocco, India, Senegal, Algeria, Bangladesh, Togo, Mauritania, Djibouti, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Ghana, Niger, Bosnia, Kuwait, Jordan, Iraq, Turkey, and Russia. By connecting these varied regions directly to the Kingdom, a more accessible pathway is created for the global Muslim community.

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