Saudi Arabia’s tourism, hospitality, and events sectors have transformed under Vision 2030. By 2025, tourism contributed 5% of GDP, attracted 123 million visitors, generated SAR300 billion ($80 billion), and supported strong non-oil economic growth.
flynas has signed an agreement with Airbus to adopt Evidence-Based Training (EBT) and the Airbus MATe Suite digital platform, becoming the first Saudi airline to implement these advanced training methods and enhance aviation safety and innovation.
Qatar Airways continues to reinstate its global network, announcing the return of daily flights to Bahrain (BAH) and Kozhikode (CCJ), starting May 1, 2026.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reports that Middle East Travel & Tourism grew 5.3% in 2025, surpassing global rates. Strong visitor spending lifted the GDP contribution to $385.8 billion and supported 7.1 million jobs, with Saudi Arabia leading regional growth, accounting for $178 billion in GDP.
Al-Urumah Season has cemented its standing as one of Saudi Arabia's most prominent eco-tourism destinations, with visitor numbers exceeding 1.7 million since its launch.
Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has issued the Executive Regulation of the Tourism Law to improve governance, regulate tourism activities, and enhance sector efficiency, supporting Oman Vision 2040’s goals of sustainable tourism, diversification, and job creation.
Emirates has installed next-generation Starlink Wi-Fi on its A380, upgrading onboard internet. The aircraft was an early adopter of in-flight connectivity, though earlier systems offered less than 1 Mbps bandwidth.
Tumodo reports Mena business travel trends in Q1 2026, with January up 5%, February surging 20%, and March slightly lower but above January. Overall bookings matched Q4 2025, with potential 25% growth absent disruptions conflict.
Jazeera Airways resumed operations at Kuwait International Airport’s T5 with six direct flights to Beirut, Cairo, Istanbul, and Mumbai, carrying over 2,000 passengers, restoring international connectivity after 57 days of airport closures.
flynas announced its operational plan to transport over 147,000 pilgrims from 18 countries during Hajj 2026, supported by fleet expansion and increased operations across its bases in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah.
