In-the-Issue

The Middle East’s travel, tourism and hospitality industries are rapidly embracing digital payments, aligning with the region’s vision for a tech-driven economy. Jaal Shah, Group Managing Director, Travel Designer Group The Middle Eastern travel sector is witnessing rapid adoption of digital payments, driven by fintech innovation, BNPL (buy now, pay …

As many as 19 participants from the government and private sector of Sharjah participated at ITB Berlin, showcasing new developments taking place in the region. Sharjah’s rich culture and heritage has been attracting European travellers to the emirate for years. Dr Shehara Fernando This year Sharjah brought in some of …

The travel and tourism sector in the Middle East region is experiencing a significant shift fuelled by cutting-edge technology and digital transformation. Digitalisation is at the core of this transformation. With the industry projected to generate approximately US $39.57 billion in revenue by 2025, the region embraces innovations that enhance …

With summer round the corner, travellers from the United Arab Emirates are planning their outbound journeys earlier than anticipated. Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head – UAE, VFS Global, shares with TRAVTALK some important tips to simplify the visa application process for the travellers, which they could also do with the assistance …

With Vision 2030 as a driving force, Saudi Arabia has unlocked unprecedented opportunities for women to lead, innovate and shape the future of tourism and hospitality. Yet, real progress means going beyond symbolic gestures – it’s about creating lasting pathways for growth, mentorship, and leadership. TRAVTALK as media partner for …

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced Andrea Grisdale, Founder and CEO, IC Bellagio, as the Vice Chair of its new initiative, Together in Travel, alongside 13 founding partners. The new platform, offering innovative travel solutions, aims to transform how Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) operate and succeed …

Riyadh Air will leverage IBM watsonx and IBM Consulting solutions to drive its vision as the world’s first digital-native airline, as per an agreement between Riyadh Air and IBM. The collaboration between the two conglomerates aims to help power the Saudi Arabian airline’s mission to launch flights in 2025 while …

The United Nations has adopted a new tourism employment indicator as part of the official Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Indicator Framework, which was approved at the 56th session of the UN Statistical Commission. With this decision, global data on tourism employment will be systematically monitored within the SDG monitoring process …

Luxury takes flight once again as Singapore Airlines (SIA) restarted First Class and Premium Economy Class on the Singapore-Dubai route since 30 March 2025. Operated seven times a week aboard Boeing 777-300ER, the service features a four-class cabin configuration, ensuring that every traveller—whether seeking ultimate luxury or elevated comfort—enjoys an …

Sun Siyam Olhuveli, one of the favourite resorts for travellers from the Middle East due to its accessibility by speedboat, announces that it has the longest pool in the Maldives, with a whopping 210 metres in length. In an interview with TRAVTALK at ITB Berlin, Zulaikha Manik (Zuley), Deputy Managing …