Emirates and Real Madrid extend legacy partnership to 2031

Emirates and Real Madrid extend legacy partnership to 2031Emirates continues as Official Shirt Sponsor of Real Madrid Football and Basketball for the next five seasonsDubai, UAE, 9 June 2026 – Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, and Real Madrid CF, the world’s most successful football club have renewed their partnership, extending one of the highest profile sponsorships in football through to 2031, and cementing a relationship that will span close to two decades.Emirates has been a proud partner of Real Madrid since 2011, with the relationship deepening further in 2013 when the airline became the club's official jersey sponsor. As part of the renewed partnership, Emirates will continue as Official Main Sponsor and Official Airline Partner of both the men’s and women’s teams, with its iconic branding on player jerseys, training kits, and team staff apparel across all major competitions, including La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, Copa del ......read full article

Emirates ready to invest in daily flights to Berlin and Stuttgart, unlocking global connectivity for two of Germany's key city regions

Emirates ready to invest in daily flights to Berlin and Stuttgart, unlocking global connectivity for two of Germany's key city regionsProposed daily services would create hundreds of jobs, open one-stop leisure and trade connections to 50 destinations and attract high-value tourismBerlin, Germany, 9 June 2026: Emirates today confirmed it stands ready to launch daily services to Berlin and Stuttgart, committing more than 100 million EUR each year in operational expenses, staff, airport charges, fuel and other expenditures, subject to the approval of the German Federal Ministry of Transport.Berlin sits as the political heart of Europe’s largest economy. A city of 3.9 million people, it is home to a thriving start-up ecosystem, well-established diplomatic community, and a cultural scene that draws millions of visitors each year. Yet its long-haul connectivity has not kept pace with the city's strong global credentials. In fact, according to OAG schedule data, over 85% of Berlin Brandenburg Airport’s international connectivity is concentrated within ......read full article

Riyadh Air Opens Ticket Sales for Daily Service between Dubai, UAE and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Riyadh Air Opens Ticket Sales for Daily Service between Dubai, UAE and Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaNew direct daily connection between Dubai (DXB) and Riyadh (RUH) commences June 18, 2026Bookings open today for flights aboard state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 DreamlinersBy joining Sfeer loyalty program, guests will receive Best Offer Guarantee, exclusive benefits and rewardsOffers convenient onward connections for passengers travelling to London, Manchester and soon-to-be-announced routes across AsiaRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, June 8, 2026 – Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, today announced the opening of ticket sales for daily flights between Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - a key addition to its growing network. This vital route, commencing June 18, 2026, strengthens the airline's mission to connect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with major global and regional hubs and deliver a world-class travel and logistics experience.Daily flights between Dubai (DXB) and Riyadh (RUH) will be operated ......read full article

Etihad and TAROM Open New Links Across Eastern Europe

Etihad and TAROM Open New Links Across Eastern EuropeSingle Etihad ticket now reaches eleven destinations across Romania and Eastern Europe via BucharestCodeshare supports Etihad’s new Abu Dhabi–Bucharest service launching 17 December 2026Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways and TAROM, the national airline of Romania, have signed a codeshare agreement that connects Etihad’s global guests with Romania and Eastern Europe, and links travellers from Romania to Abu Dhabi, Etihad’s home and gateway to its worldwide network. The agreement was signed at the IATA Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro.Under the partnership, Etihad guests can book a single ticket on TAROM flights from Bucharest to six cities across Romania: Baia Mare, Cluj-Napoca, Iasi, Oradea, Suceava, and Timisoara. The codeshare also extends to four Eastern European capitals: Belgrade, Budapest, Chisinau, and Sofia. Guests from Romania, in turn, can reach Abu Dhabi from Bucharest on Etihad’s new ......read full article

LEGOLAND® Hotel Dubai Launches New Sleepover Series with Five Immersive Themes

LEGOLAND® Hotel Dubai Launches New Sleepover Series with Five Immersive ThemesFrom NINJAGO® Nights and pirate adventures to royal kingdoms and creative fun, families can enjoy a different themed experiencDubai, United Arab Emirates, 1 June 2026 — Family getaways are about to become even more exciting at LEGOLAND® Hotel Dubai. The hotel has unveiled its brand-new Sleepover Series, a collection of themed stays designed to transform an ordinary overnight break into an unforgettable family escape.Running from 1 June to 2 August, the series invites families to step into some of the most-loved LEGO® worlds through exclusive entertainment, creative workshops, character encounters, scavenger hunts, interactive activities and special food and beverage offerings designed for the whole family.The Sleepover Series will feature five exciting themes:NINJAGO® Nights – 1 to 14 June Pirates – 15 to 28 June Adventure – 29 June to 5 July Kingdoms – 6 to 19 July Friends – 20 July ......read full article

Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek Presents the Ultimate FIFA World Cup 2026 Viewing Destination at The Pub English Bar

Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek Presents the Ultimate FIFA World Cup 2026 Viewing Destination at The Pub English BarAs anticipation builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek invites football enthusiasts to experience every moment of the tournament at The Pub English Bar, one of Dubai's longest-standing and most characterful British-style pubs. Established in 1975 and deeply woven into the social fabric of Deira Creek, the venue will transform into a dedicated football zone from 11th June to 19th July, broadcasting every televised fixture live and loud on the big screen.Positioned within one of the city's most storied hospitality addresses, the tournament experience at The Pub combines the spirited atmosphere of match-day football with the warmth and familiarity of a traditional English bar. Guests can expect an immersive line-up of sports-themed menus, match-night activations, drinks offers and interactive competitions, all curated to elevate the excitement of the world's most celebrated football ......read full article

Emirates recycles and reuses 88,000 kilograms of plastic from inflight dining

Emirates recycles and reuses 88,000 kilograms of plastic from inflight diningDubai, UAE, 4 June 2026: In celebration of World Environment Day on 5 June, Emirates is highlighting the significant impact of its closed-loop recycling programme, first launched in June 2023. Over the past year, the airline has repurposed more than 88,000 kilograms of plastic from Economy Class inflight meal service items, transforming them into new products for use onboard.As part of its commitment to environmental stewardship, Emirates has invested more than AED 50 million in transitioning to a closed-loop manufacturing model for inflight dining serviceware. Damaged and unserviceable Economy Class trays, casseroles, snack dishes and bowls are collected after flights, cleaned, inspected and processed at a specialist facility in Dubai, where they are transformed into new meal service items containing up to 25% recycled material. These products are then returned to Emirates Flight Catering and reintroduced into service onboard ......read full article

Emirates promotes its first Emirati female captains, inspiring the next generation of women in aviation

Emirates promotes its first Emirati female captains, inspiring the next generation of women in aviationDubai, UAE, 4 June 2026: Emirates has promoted two accomplished Emirati female pilots to captains, marking a pivotal step forward in its commitment to empowering Emirati women in aviation. Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri both rose through the Emirates Group's National Cadet Pilot Programme, an initiative that has graduated numerous Emirati pilots.Hanan Mohammed Jawad joined Emirates in 2008 through the cadet pilot programme, driven by ambition, passion, and a lifelong dream of taking to the skies. With strong mentorship and continued support from the airline’s fleet management, she steadily progressed through the ranks, building her career from the ground up.Bakhita Al Mheiri began her journey with Emirates as a cadet pilot in 2011. Inspired by successful Emirati female pilots and driven by her passion for flying, Bakhita continued to achieve one milestone after another, building a strong and successful career with ......read full article

Etihad Rail Supports the Fishing Sector through the Rail Transport of Fresh Fish in Partnership with the Abu Dhabi Fishermen Cooperative Society

Etihad Rail Supports the Fishing Sector through the Rail Transport of Fresh Fish in Partnership with the Abu Dhabi Fishermen Cooperative SocietyShipment transported in refrigerated containers from Al Sila' Port to Abu Dhabi Fish Market.Partnership reflects Etihad Rail Freight's ongoing efforts to expand its services and diversify cargo deliveries from source to destination.Abu Dhabi, UAE- 2 June 2026: As part of a community-driven initiative, Etihad Rail Freight, a subsidiary of Etihad Rail which is responsible for delivering freight services, has partnered with the Abu Dhabi Fishermen Cooperative Society (ADFCS) to support local fishermen by transporting fresh fish via refrigerated containers from Al Sila' Port to Abu Dhabi Fish Market.This initiative reflects Etihad Rail Freight’s commitment to supporting a sector deeply rooted in the UAE’s national heritage and economy, all while empowering local fishermen to grow and sustain their businesses. By transporting fresh fish with the highest standards of temperature-controlled logistics, Etihad Rail ......read full article

Waterfront Market Invites Dubai to ‘Carry What Matters' Through a Community Design Challenge

Waterfront Market Invites Dubai to ‘Carry What Matters' Through a Community Design ChallengeAn open invitation for UAE artists of all ages to design limited-edition bags that celebrate food, culture, and sustainability.Dubai, UAE, 2 June 2026: Waterfront Market, Dubai’s largest fresh food market, invites Dubai’s residents, schools, young creatives, and families to participate in ‘Carry What Matters,’ a community-driven challenge celebrating the power of food, culture, and sustainability aligned with the UAE’s wider ‘Proud of UAE’ spirit that honours local creativity, community, and shared identity. Participants are invited to design a limited-edition canvas bag that embodies the values of connection, sustainability, and creativity, while highlighting Waterfront Market’s role at the heart of Dubai’s food culture.Residents are invited to explore the theme: Design a reusable bag that celebrates the UAE’s food culture, capturing the ingredients, traditions, and everyday ......read full article

Istituto marangoni dubai to host open saturday for teenagers, offering hands-on workshops in fashion, design and visual arts

Istituto marangoni dubai to host open saturday for teenagers,  offering hands-on workshops in fashion, design and visual artsIstituto Marangoni Dubai, a leading higher education institution recognised by the UAE Ministry of Education (MOE), will host its next Open Day for Teenagers on Saturday 13th June, inviting young creatives to discover the worlds of Fashion, Design and Visual Arts through a series of immersive, hands-on workshops led by the institute's expert tutors.Open to teens aged 14 and above, the half-day programme offers an inspiring introduction to the diverse Bachelor of Arts courses available at the institute, including Fashion Styling, Fashion Business, and Fashion Design, as well as Interior, Product, and Visual Design, and Fragrances & Cosmetics. With programmes recognised by the CAA (Commission for Academic Accreditation), and a 91% employability rate for graduates, according to Doxa,, Istituto Marangoni Dubai equips students with the skills required to succeed in today's evolving creative industries.Set within Istituto ......read full article

The Emirates A380 dons its Gunners kit

The Emirates A380 dons its Gunners kitDubai, UAE, 29 May 2026 – Emirates has revealed a celebratory A380 livery dedicated to Arsenal FC, following the club’s triumphant Premier League winning season. Unveiled as part of the airline’s longstanding partnership with Arsenal, the bespoke livery reflects Emirates’ continued commitment to connecting fans with the world’s biggest sporting moments.Applied in-house by Emirates Engineering, the decal stretches from the iconic tail fin flag to the middle of the fuselage and features four first-team players: Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard and Viktor Gyökeres. The Arsenal Crest is proudly emblazoned above glistening gold ‘Champions’ lettering, celebrating the efforts of the entire squad.2026 marks a major milestone for Emirates and Arsenal, as they celebrate 20 years of partnership. Emirates serves as Official Airline partner, and holds naming rights to Arsenal’s home ......read full article

Etihad rail unveils first official passenger rail uniforms ahead of introduction of services

Etihad rail unveils first official passenger rail uniforms ahead of introduction of servicesNew grey and red uniforms reflect a modern, confident and welcoming vision for passenger rail in the UAEUniforms designed to embody professionalism, comfort and Emirati hospitalityReveal marks another milestone ahead of the introduction of passenger servicesAbu Dhabi, UAE – May 25, 2026: Etihad Rail has today unveiled the official uniforms that will be worn by its passenger-facing teams, offering the public a first look at one of the most visible symbols of the UAE’s national railway network ahead of the introduction of passenger services.The new uniforms, designed in a contemporary grey palette with distinctive red accents, will be worn by onboard hosts, station teams and customer-facing employees across the passenger network. The collection has been created to reflect Etihad Rail’s wider brand values, combining professionalism, warmth, safety and modern Emirati hospitality.The unveiling marks another significant ......read full article

flydubai and Cyprus Airways announce interline partnership to expand global connectivity

flydubai and Cyprus Airways announce interline partnership to expand global connectivityDubai, United Arab Emirates, 22 May 2026: flydubai and Cyprus Airways have announced the launch of a new interline agreement, designed to enhance international connectivity and provide passengers with seamless access to an expanded network of destinations across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the GCC.The partnership enables customers to travel on a single itinerary with coordinated baggage handling and streamlined transfers via Dubai International (DXB), one of the world’s leading aviation hubs.Under the agreement, passengers travelling with Cyprus Airways from Larnaca will gain convenient one-stop access via Dubai to a broad range of flydubai destinations, including Almaty, Astana, Colombo, Dhaka, Jeddah, Kathmandu, Krabi, Kuwait, Langkawi, Malé, Medina, Muscat, Penang and Riyadh.The agreement significantly strengthens connectivity options for travellers departing from Cyprus, offering efficient onward connections through ......read full article

Emirates Skywards launches global ‘Season of Rewards' campaign for members worldwide

Emirates Skywards launches global ‘Season of Rewards' campaign for members worldwideDubai, UAE, 22 May 2026: Emirates Skywards is celebrating its members over the next few months with the launch of ‘Season of Rewards’ - a global campaign packed with bonus Skywards Miles and Tier Miles, enhanced Cash+Miles savings, partner reward flight offers, and accelerated earning opportunities across partner airlines, hotels, car rentals, holiday packages and lifestyle experiences. Running from 21 May to 31 August 2026, the season of rewards gives members more ways to earn and spend Miles across every part of their travel journey.“Skywards Season of Rewards reflects our continued commitment to creating even more value for our members worldwide. Whether members are planning a family holiday, a Dubai stopover, a weekend escape, or simply looking to maximise rewards across their travel spend - this initiative unlocks more opportunities to earn, save and experience the world with Emirates Skywards.”Dr. Nejib ......read full article

Dubai Airports set to welcome thousands of Hajj pilgrims

Dubai Airports set to welcome thousands of Hajj pilgrimsDubai, United Arab Emirates, 21 May 2026: Dubai Airports has prepared to welcome over 3,600 pilgrims during this year’s Hajj travel period, with nearly 59% of all UAE pilgrims passing through its terminals.Hajj departure flights will operate until 23 May on services by Emirates, Saudia, flydubai and flynas. The Official Dubai Government Delegation departs today, 21 MayAn operational readiness plan, developed to ensure safe, coordinated and efficient passenger flow during travel peaks, was built in close coordination with airline and government partners including Dubai Police, GDRFA, Dubai Customs, the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS), dnata, Dubai Duty Free, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).Preparations include dedicated check-in counters, assigned nearest departure and arrival gates to minimise walking distances for pilgrims, ......read full article

Turkish Airlines Announces Dubai Flight Resumption

Turkish Airlines Announces Dubai Flight ResumptionTurkish Airlines, the airline that flies to more countries than any other in the world, has announced the resumption of its Dubai flights starting June 9. This follows a temporary suspension of services that began on February 28, 2026.Resumption of flag carrier’s Dubai flights marks an important step in restoring connectivity between Türkiye and the UAE as Turkish Airlines reconnects its guests to its global network through its hub in Istanbul.Flights will resume to and from Dubai International Airport (DXB), providing passengers with seamless travel options across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and the Americas.FLIGHT NOSTARTFREQUENCYORGDSTDEPARRTK 762Jun 9, 2026DailyISTDXB01:3006:55TK 763Jun 9, 2026DailyDXBIST08:3012:20*Shown in local timesTurkish Airlines will continue to monitor the geopolitical developments to adjust operations as needed and ensure a smooth and safe travel experience. Passengers are advised to check the ......read full article

Rain In The Zoo Returns This Eid At Emirates Park Zoo & Resort

Rain In The Zoo Returns This Eid At Emirates Park Zoo & ResortThe popular Abu Dhabi destination is offering an AED 85 experience packed with family entertainment, splash-filled fun, and memorable animal moments.Abu Dhabi – May 20, 2026: Emirates Park Zoo & Resort is bringing back its much-loved “Rain in the Zoo” experience this Eid Al Adha, inviting families to enjoy a refreshing celebration filled with fun activities, animal presentations, and exciting summer attractions.“Rain in the Zoo” transforms the Zoo into an immersive seasonal escape featuring cooling rain moments, kids’ water slides, themed entertainment, engaging animal presentations, and activities designed for visitors of all ages.Adding a meaningful twist to the experience, the event also highlights the importance of rain for animals and nature. Guests will discover how different animals react to rainfall, how they stay cool during warmer months, and how rain can create playful and enriching ......read full article

IATA Launches Baggage Community System (BCS) to Modernize Global Baggage Messaging

IATA Launches Baggage Community System (BCS) to Modernize Global Baggage Messaging20 May 2026 (Cairo) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has developed the Baggage Community System (BCS), a secure digital platform to support the progressive adoption of the Modern Baggage Messaging (BIX) standard. BCS will enable airlines, airports, ground handlers, and solution providers to gain the operational and passenger experience benefits of BIX even while parts of the industry are in transition from legacy Type B messages for baggage handling.“Improving baggage operations depends on timely, accurate, and secure information exchange. We cannot do that with legacy Type B messages on teletype networks. And we cannot wait for everyone to convert to modern BIX capabilities. That is where BCS plays an essential role. By handling both BIX and legacy Type B systems, it enables early adopters to gain the benefits of their investments without losing connectivity with those still operating legacy systems,” ......read full article

Emirates completes first-ever retrofit of two-class A380 aircraft

Emirates completes first-ever retrofit of two-class A380 aircraftIntroduces Premium Economy seating to the upper deck of its iconic A380 in a 2-3-2 layoutDubai, UAE, 20 May 2026- Emirates has reached a defining milestone in its ambitious multi-billion dollar retrofit programme with the successful reconfiguration of its first two-class A380 aircraft. The newly refurbished aircraft (A6-EUX) has taken to the skies operating as EK 39/40 between Dubai and Birmingham, featuring sparkling new interiors with Emirates’ latest products in three cabin classes: 76 Business Class seats, 56 Premium Economy Seats, and 437 Economy Class seats.This is the first of 15 two-class A380 aircraft in its fleet that Emirates will renovate as part of its commitment to offer customers a consistently superior experience in the sky.Managed entirely in-house by Emirates Engineering in Dubai, the retrofit programme has so far completed work on 95 Emirates aircraft including 42 Airbus A380s and 53 Boeing 777s, representing ......read full article

Arabian Center welcomes families to a memorable Eid Al Adha celebration blending cultural traditions and rewarding experiences

Arabian Center welcomes families  to a memorable Eid Al Adha celebration blending cultural traditions and rewarding experiencesShoppers can win a share of AED 200,000 in cash prizes while enjoying authentic heritage activities and live entertainment.DUBAI, UAE – 20 May 2026: Arabian Center, Dubai’s favorite community mall, is set to welcome residents and visitors for an immersive Eid Al Adha celebration from 27 May to 31 May 2026. Bringing together cherished traditions, festive entertainment, and rewarding shopping experiences, the mall will offer a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the spirit of togetherness and generosity associated with the blessed occasion.Taking place daily from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Entrance B, Arabian Center’s Eid activations will invite families to experience authentic cultural traditions through complimentary Arabic coffee and dates, alongside traditional henna painting in a warm and welcoming setting. Adding to the festive ambience, themed roaming entertainment performances will take place on 28 and 29 May, with ......read full article

Art Dubai's 20th anniversary Special Edition closes to acclaim and record attendances

Art Dubai's 20th anniversary Special Edition closes to acclaim and record attendancesFour-day celebration of the UAE’s creative scene draws more than 25,000 visitorsMore than 25,000 visitors, the highest attendance on public days in the fair’s historyInternational, regional and local galleries report significant artwork sales across all four daysStrong VIP attendance including royal family, institutional, corporate and private collectorsUAE institutional programme draws acclaim featuring exhibitions, performances and screenings in collaboration with partners including Barjeel Art Foundation, Dubai Collection, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Alserkal, Art Jameel and Sharjah Art Foundation⁠More than 200 local creatives took part in the fair’s programmingFurther initiatives announced at Art Dubai include: Announcement of new Dubai Museum of Digital Art, scheduled to open in 2029Tomas Daukša announced as latest artist to lead A.R.M. Holding Children’s Programme, launching in UAE schools in ......read full article

Stronger Standard Implementation, Modern GSE, and Digitalization Are Key to More Resilient Ground Handling

Stronger Standard Implementation, Modern GSE, and Digitalization Are Key to More Resilient Ground Handling19 May 2026 (Cairo) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for stronger implementation of global standards, a transition to modernized ground support equipment (GSE) and greater digitalization in the ground handling sector. This will support safer, more efficient, sustainable, and resilient ground handling. IATA made the call at the 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC), which opened in Cairo today, hosted by EgyptAir.“Ground handling is often invisible to passengers, but when it goes wrong, everyone notices. A delayed bag, a damaged aircraft, a loading error, or a disrupted turnaround may last minutes, but the consequences can ripple across an entire network. Stronger implementation of standards, smarter equipment, and digitalization are the fundamentals that will make ground operations safer, more efficient, more sustainable and more resilient,” said Monika Mejstrikova, IATA’s ......read full article

Emirates breaks ground on US$ 5.1 billion ultra-modern engineering facility at Dubai South

Emirates breaks ground on US$ 5.1 billion ultra-modern engineering facility at Dubai SouthConstruction begins on the world’s largest and most advanced aviation engineering facility at Dubai South (DWC airport)Hangar complex capable of handling 28 wide-body aircraft simultaneouslyLargest landing gear workshop in the worldDubai, UAE, 18 May 2026- Emirates has broken ground on its new US$ 5.1 billion engineering complex at Dubai South slated to become the world’s most modern and advanced maintenance, repairs and overhaul (MRO) facility, cementing Emirates' and Dubai's leadership in global aviation capability and infrastructure.Emirates’ new engineering facility is being delivered by China Railway Construction Corporation, a leading construction and infrastructure development company with Artelia being appointed the project consultants.The groundbreaking ceremony was held in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group, Sir Tim ......read full article

Etihad opens the Silk Road with new Uzbekistan Airways codeshare

Etihad opens the Silk Road with new Uzbekistan Airways codeshareSingle Etihad ticket now reaches eight cities across Uzbekistan via TashkentCodeshare launch coincides with Etihad’s new daily Abu Dhabi–Tashkent service on 9 August 2026Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways and Uzbekistan Airways have signed a codeshare agreement that opens Central Asia for Etihad’s global guests and links Uzbekistan Airways guests to Etihad’s daily Abu Dhabi service. The agreement takes effect on 15 May 2026, with the first codeshare flights available for travel from 9 August 2026.Under the partnership, Etihad guests can book a single ticket on Uzbekistan Airways flights from Tashkent to eight destinations across Uzbekistan: Samarkand, Urgench, Nukus, Termez, Fergana, Namangan, Andizhan, and Bukhara – as well as several international destinations on Uzbekistan Airways’ network. Uzbekistan Airways guests, in turn, can now easily reach Abu Dhabi via Tashkent on the new Etihad daily service ......read full article

‘Department of Family Golden Moments' to Elevate Family Hospitality at Dubai Gold District and Dubai Deira Cluster of Hotels

‘Department of Family Golden Moments' to Elevate Family  Hospitality at Dubai Gold District and Dubai Deira Cluster of HotelsDubai Gold District and Dubai Deira Cluster of Hotels introduce a first-of-its-kind internal culture initiative designed to create meaningful, emotion-led guest experiences for families across every touchpointDubai, UAE, May 2026: Dubai Gold District and the Dubai Deira Cluster of Hotels, managed by Valor Hospitality Partners, have launched the Department of Family Golden Moments – a dedicated internal initiative centred on emotional hospitality, human connection, and creating truly memorable stays for every member. Built on a foundation of experiential micro-interventions – small, localised experiences that allow teams to build trust and ownership organically – the initiative brings forth a deliberate and people-first approach to transforming guest experience from the inside out.As the modern traveller increasingly seeks more than just accommodation – looking for comfort, belonging, and shared experiences ......read full article

Emirates taps GE Aerospace for expertise to advance piece part repair capabilities for engine maintenance

Emirates taps GE Aerospace for expertise to advance piece part repair capabilities for engine maintenanceGE Aerospace to support Emirates in capability building for piece part component repair for GE90 and GP 7200 engine typesAgreement in line with capability roadmap of Emirates Engine Maintenance Centre (EEMC) for excellence in engine repairsDubai, UAE, 14 May 2026- Emirates has signed an agreement with GE Aerospace for technical and training consultancy to develop comprehensive piece part component repair capabilities for GE90 and GP 7200 engines.The agreement was signed by Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer and Mohamed Ali, President & CEO, Commercial Engines & Services, GE Aerospace at the Emirates Group Headquarters.The agreement will support the expansion of the Emirates Engine Maintenance Centre (EEMC), a US$ 300 million investment to scale up infrastructure and capabilities to maintain, repair and overhaul engines in Emirates’ fleet of aircraft. Specifically, GE Aerospace will ......read full article

Mercato Mall Presents Unfolding in Blue — A Moving Tribute to Inclusion, Creativity, and Sensory Art

Mercato Mall Presents Unfolding in Blue — A Moving Tribute to Inclusion, Creativity, and Sensory ArtAn Inspiring Collaboration with Mawaheb Art Studio Celebrating People of DeterminationA wave of creativity, emotion, and human connection has arrived at Mercato Shopping Mall with the launch of Unfolding in Blue — a powerful sensory art exhibition running from 7th to 13th May 2026 in collaboration with Mawaheb Art Studio, the celebrated creative hub dedicated to empowering People of Determination through artistic expression and inclusion.More than a traditional exhibition, Unfolding in Blue invites visitors into an immersive multi-sensory experience inspired by the many emotional layers and symbolic beauty of the color blue. Through a striking collection of artworks created by Mawaheb’s talented artists, the exhibition explores themes of identity, accessibility, emotion, and belonging — encouraging visitors to connect through art on a deeply personal level.The official opening ceremony took place on Thursday, 7th May ......read full article

flydubai announces direct flights to Benghazi, expanding its network in Africa

flydubai announces direct flights to Benghazi, expanding its network in AfricaThe Dubai-based carrier becomes the first UAE carrier to connect the Libyan city with DubaiWith the start of its three-times-weekly service to Benghazi, the carrier expands its network in Africa to 13 destinations across nine countriesflydubai's network is expected to grow to more than 100 destinations by the summerDubai, United Arab Emirates, 14 May 2026: flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, has announced the launch of direct flights to Benghazi in Libya, becoming the first UAE carrier to operate direct services between Dubai and Benghazi Benina International Airport (BEN). Flights will operate on 17 June 2026 from Terminal 3 at Dubai International (DXB).The new route will strengthen connectivity between the UAE and Libya while offering passengers from Benghazi seamless access to flydubai's growing network through Dubai's aviation hub. Commenting on the launch of operations, Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at ......read full article

Mohammed bin rashid aerospace hub launches new light industrial and maintenance complex to meet rising sector demand

Mohammed bin rashid aerospace hub launches new light industrial and maintenance complex to meet rising sector demandDubai, UAE, 14 May 2026: Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH), the aerospace platform of Dubai South dedicated to advancing the aviation industry, has announced the launch of its Light Industrial and Maintenance Complex, reinforcing its commitment to meeting growing demand across the sector.Spanning 24,900 square meters, the complex comprises 33 purpose-built units designed to support a wide range of aviation-related activities. The facility offers modern, scalable spaces tailored for businesses seeking operational efficiency, with flexible configurations that allow units to be combined to meet evolving operational requirements. Located within the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, the development is positioned to support aviation and aerologistics operators within Dubai South’s integrated ecosystem. The Light Industrial and Maintenance Complex is expected to be completed by Q3 2027.Tahnoon Saif, CEO of Mohammed Bin Rashid ......read full article

ECOS Dubai Hotel at Al Furjan Unveils Exclusive “Eid Vibe Stay” for Eid Al Adha 2026

ECOS Dubai Hotel at Al Furjan Unveils Exclusive “Eid Vibe Stay” for Eid Al Adha 2026• Offering UAE residents and GCC travelers up to 30% savings and exclusive family-friendly Eid benefitsDubai, UAE (May 13, 2026): ECOS Dubai Hotel at Al Furjan has announced the launch of its “Eid Vibe Stay” offer, introducing a special Eid Al Adha staycation experience tailored for UAE residents and visitors from across the GCC seeking comfort, convenience, and value-driven hospitality during the festive season.Available for bookings from now until the end of Eid, the offer is valid for stays between 22 May and 31 May 2026, combining contemporary hospitality with a range of exclusive guest benefits designed to enhance the holiday experience for families, couples, and leisure travelers alike.As part of the offer, guests can enjoy:30% off the Best Available Rate inclusive of breakfast30% off across food and beverage outletsEarly check-in from 10:00 AMLate check-out until 4:00 PMComplimentary stay for children below six ......read full article

Global Village to Extend Milestone Season 30 to 31 May, Welcoming Guests to Celebrate Eid Al Adha Together

Global Village to Extend Milestone Season 30 to 31 May, Welcoming Guests to Celebrate Eid Al Adha TogetherDubai, UAE, 10 May 2026 – Global Village, the region’s premier multicultural family destination for culture, shopping, dining and entertainment, has extended its milestone Season 30 until Sunday, 31 May 2026, bringing the season to a vibrant close coinciding with Eid Al Adha celebrations at one of Dubai’s most beloved destinations.Over three decades, Global Village has grown from a seasonal attraction into one of Dubai’s most recognisable and popular family destinations. Since announcing its reopening on 20 April, Global Village welcomed guests back with warmth and renewed energy. The strong public response highlighted the destination’s deep-rooted place within Dubai’s social fabric, as families, residents and visitors returned to celebrate shared moments of joy and experience the beauty and cultural richness that Global Village brings to the city each season.Fernando Eiroa, Chief Executive Officer, ......read full article

Emirates Group achieves record profit of AED 24.4 bn (US$ 6.6 bn) in 2025-26

Emirates Group achieves record profit of AED 24.4 bn (US$ 6.6 bn) in 2025-26Emirates remains the world’s most profitable airlineDUBAI, UAE, 7 May 2026 - The Emirates Group today released its 2025-26 Annual Report, achieving new record profit, revenue, and cash balance levels, despite a disruptive and challenging 12th month in its financial year.Emirates is the world’s most profitable airline in the 2025-26 reporting period.For the financial year ended 31 March 2026, the Emirates Group reported:record profit before tax (PBT) of AED 24.4 billion (US$ 6.6 billion), up 7% from last year, and a PBT margin of 16.2%record revenue of AED 150.5 billion (US$ 41.0 billion), up 3% over last year’s resultsrecord level of cash assets at AED 59.6 billion (US$ 16.2 billion), up 12% from last yearEBITDA of AED 41.1 billion (US$ 11.2 billion), reflecting its strong operating profitability.Emirates retains its place as the world’s most profitable airline, reporting:record profit before tax (PBT) of AED ......read full article

Emirates unveils a striking new UAE flag livery on its A380

Emirates unveils a striking new UAE flag livery on its A380The latest livery raises the nation's flag higher, prouder, and further than ever beforeDubai, UAE, 8 May 2026: Emirates today unveiled a striking livery of a large UAE flag emblazoned across the fuselage of its iconic Airbus A380 aircraft, the world’s largest commercial passenger aircraft. The new livery on A6-EVG, is an extension of the airline's iconic tail design, and a powerful tribute to the spirit, ambition and unity of the UAE.This initiative is part of Emirates' ‘This Flag Will Always Fly’ campaign, responding to the nationwide initiative launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. This initiative called on all citizens and residents to raise the UAE flag as a unifying symbol across society, a shared responsibility and pride in the nation’s strength and cohesion during recent challenges.His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al ......read full article

Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah Forecast 90% Occupancy for Eid Al Adha as Staycation Demand Surges

Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah Forecast 90% Occupancy for Eid Al Adha as Staycation Demand SurgesCelebrate the Traditions of Eid Al Adha with Authentic Cultural Experiences and Exclusive Beachfront RetreatsAjman, UAE (May 7, 2026): — Strong regional demand for festive travel has positioned two of the Northern Emirates' leading hospitality landmarks for a near-capacity holiday period. Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah have announced that projected occupancy levels are expected to reach 90% during the upcoming Eid Al Adha week.The surge in bookings reflects a broader trend of residents opting for high-value staycations within the UAE. In response to the high volume of domestic travelers, both properties have unveiled comprehensive seasonal programs designed to manage the holiday influx while maintaining the cultural authenticity of the occasion.“Eid Al Adha remains a primary driver for the hospitality sector in the Northern Emirates,” said Iftikhar Hamdani, Area General Manager for Bahi ......read full article

Kids Go & Eat for Free at Emirates Park Zoo & Resort

Kids Go & Eat for Free at Emirates Park Zoo & ResortAn unforgettable family day out filled with wildlife adventures, interactive experiences, and great food!Abu Dhabi – May 7, 2026: Emirates Park Zoo & Resort has launched a limited-time family offer, Kids Go & Eat for Free, giving families more value and comfort during their visit. With every adult Explorer Plus ticket, one child receives free zoo entry, a free kid’s meal, and unlimited access to animal presentations, including the Sea Lion Presentation, Elephant Encounter, and Animal Wonders.Families can enjoy a full day out across partially air-conditioned indoor facilities and plenty of shaded outdoor spaces, making the experience more comfortable while exploring animals such as lions, leopards, elephants, and more.The offer is available for a limited time before Eid and may be extended based on demand.Important note: The free kids’ meal can only be redeemed after purchasing an adult meal at the ......read full article

‘Department of Family Golden Moments' to Elevate Family Hospitality at Dubai Gold District and Dubai Deira Cluster of Hotels

‘Department of Family Golden Moments' to Elevate Family Hospitality at Dubai Gold District and Dubai Deira Cluster of HotelsDubai Gold District and Dubai Deira Cluster of Hotels introduce a first-of-its-kind internal culture initiative designed to create meaningful, emotion-led guest experiences for families across every touchpointDubai, UAE, May 2026: Dubai Gold District and the Dubai Deira Cluster of Hotels, managed by Valor Hospitality Partners, have launched the Department of Family Golden Moments – a dedicated internal initiative centred on emotional hospitality, human connection, and creating truly memorable stays for every member. Built on a foundation of experiential micro-interventions – small, localised experiences that allow teams to build trust and ownership organically – the initiative brings forth a deliberate and people-first approach to transforming guest experience from the inside out.As the modern traveller increasingly seeks more than just accommodation – looking for comfort, belonging, and shared experiences ......read full article

EDGE Signs Global Air Carrier Services Agreement with Etihad Airways

EDGE Signs Global Air Carrier Services Agreement with Etihad AirwaysAbu Dhabi, UAE: 5 May 2026 – EDGE has signed a Global Air Carrier Services Agreement with Etihad Airways at Make it in the Emirates (MIITE 2026), consolidating its airfreight operations under the UAE's national carrier.Under the agreement, EDGE will procure airfreight services through Etihad Airways' cargo operations for shipments on behalf of itself and its growing portfolio of 35 entities. The agreement is part of EDGE's broader strategy to prioritise local partnerships across its supply chain and operations, ensuring that as the organisation grows, it continues to invest in and rely on the UAE's own world-class institutions and capabilities.Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE Group, said: "This agreement reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful local partnerships that create lasting value for the UAE. By working with Etihad Airways, we are not only optimising our own operations but ......read full article

Make it in the Emirates 2026: A Record-Breaking Fifth Edition Backed by Key Partners and Sponsors

Abu Dhabi May 04, 2026: The fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates, the UAE's premier industrial platform, is set to be the largest and most impactful in its history. Hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), co-hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), ADNOC, and L'IMAD Holding Company, and organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon company, taking place at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, from May 4 to May 7, 2026. This year's edition highlights the UAE's strong commitment to advancing industrial innovation and economic diversification.The 2026 edition has achieved record-breaking growth, with 1,245 exhibitors, marking a 73% increase compared to the previous edition. The exhibition space has also expanded significantly, covering 88,000 square meters, a 30% growth from last year.The success of Make it in the Emirates 2026 is made possible through the invaluable support of ......read full article

Excellent Net Promoter Score (NPS) reflects customer confidence in the UAE and flydubai

Excellent Net Promoter Score (NPS) reflects customer confidence in the UAE and flydubaiBased on feedback from thousands of flydubai customers, the carrier’s Net Promoter Score (NPS) more than doubled in MarchThis reflects the confidence in the United Arab Emirates and flydubai’s operational resilience during regional airspace disruptionsDubai, United Arab Emirates, 04 May 2026: flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, has reaffirmed the strength of customer confidence in the United Arab Emirates and Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub, following the multiple airspace disruptions that took place since the beginning of the regional conflict.During this challenging period, the UAE’s decisive leadership ensured that all measures taken prioritised the wellbeing of passengers and crew, while maintaining operational integrity. Temporary airspace closures were implemented proactively based on real-time intelligence and risk assessments, with a carefully coordinated and phased reopening that reinforced ......read full article

Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment Brings Dubai's Retail Sector Together for 'Proud of UAE' Initiative, Giving Back to the Community

Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment Brings Dubai's Retail Sector Together for 'Proud of UAE' Initiative, Giving Back to the CommunityDubai, United Arab Emirates – 1st May: Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), part of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has announced the activation of the nationwide 'Proud of UAE' campaign across Dubai's retail sector, reflecting the country's resilience, unity and shared pride, and recognising the contribution of residents and visitors.Running until 21 May 2026, the citywide initiative brings together more than 500 global, regional, and homegrown brands across Dubai, delivering meaningful in-store experiences, exclusive offers, and destination-led activations as a gesture of appreciation to the community.During this period, shoppers can access citywide offers, exclusive promotions and limited-time experiences at Dubai's leading malls and retail destinations such as Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, BurJuman, Dubai Festival City Mall, Ibn Battuta Mall, City Walk, ......read full article

Dubai Culture Leads Dubai Government in Digital Customer Experience

Dubai Culture Leads Dubai Government in Digital Customer ExperienceAchieves 94% score and Pioneer Level (L5) under the Dubai Government Digital Maturity Assessment 2025Dubai, UAE – 30 April 2026: Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) continues to strengthen its competitiveness and leadership in digital transformation, having secured first place in the Digital Customer Experience (DCX) index across Dubai Government entities under the Digital Maturity Assessment 2025, achieving a performance score of 94% and exceeding the government average by 39 percentage points.This achievement reflects Dubai Culture's success in developing an integrated digital ecosystem centred on customer needs, delivering services that are more accessible, efficient, and responsive, in line with the Government of Dubai's vision to build a global government model based on innovation and excellence.This progress is the result of a series of key initiatives adopted by the Authority, including the design of ......read full article

Middle East Disruption Impacts Cargo Markets, Demand Falls 4.8% in March

Middle East Disruption Impacts Cargo Markets, Demand Falls 4.8% in March29 April 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for March 2026 global air cargo markets showing:Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), fell by 4.8% compared to March 2025 levels (-5.5% for international operations).Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), decreased by 4.7% compared to March 2025 (-6.8% for international operations)."Air cargo demand fell 4.8% in March compared to the previous year. This was mostly due to severe disruptions at major Gulf hubs due to war in the Middle East. The timing of the usual post–Lunar New Year slowdown also added to the decline. The underlying demand trends, at this point, appear strong and the recent World Trade Organization and International Monetary Fund revisions to trade and GDP projections continue to see growth in 2026. Importantly, air cargo networks are providing the flexibility needed to ......read full article

Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience to return to Al Ain Region this August

Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience to return to Al Ain Region this AugustRelease your inner child in a fun-filled world of bubbles at this interactive, multi-sensory experience designed for kids and 'big kids' alikeAl Ain Region, UAE -Thursday,30 April 2026: Theory Eleven Entertainment (T11), in association with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience to Al Ain Square, Al Ain Region, from 28 August to 7 November 2026.In this multi-sensory experience, visitors will journey through fantastical landscapes and imaginative metaverses filled with optical illusions and standout photo opportunities.Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience launches amid a new cultural trend termed ‘Kidulting’ — generally understood as the concept of adults engaging in fun activities traditionally designed for children.Following its world premiere in Milan and expansion to Los Angeles, London, Singapore, and ......read full article

March Passenger Demand Up 2.1% But Sharp Regional Differences

March Passenger Demand Up 2.1% But Sharp Regional Differences29 April 2026 (Geneva) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for March 2026 global passenger demand:Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was up 2.1% compared to March 2025. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), decreased 1.7% year-on-year. The load factor was 83.6% (+3.1 ppt compared to March 2025).International demand fell -0.6% compared to March 2025. Capacity was down -6.2% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.1% (+4.7 ppt compared to March 2025). The overall decline in international traffic was led by a -60.8% fall in traffic by carriers in the Middle East.Domestic demand increased 6.5% compared to March 2025. Capacity increased 5.6% year-on-year. The load factor was 83.0% (+0.7 ppt compared to March 2025)."Demand or air travel continued to grow in March despite disruptions in the Middle East. The nearly 61% decline in international traffic by ......read full article

IATA Calls on African Governments to Prioritize Aviation for Long Term Economic Growth

IATA Calls on African Governments to Prioritize Aviation for Long Term Economic Growth29 April 2026 (Addis Ababa) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called on African governments to prioritize aviation as a strategic enabler of economic and social development."Aviation is economic infrastructure for Africa. Its value lies in the long‑term benefits it delivers. An aviation strategy focused on safety, cost-competitiveness, energy security/sustainability, and ease of doing business will create jobs, enable trade, support tourism, and further regional integration. The prosperity this generates will allow governments to push forward social and economic development more durably than any tax that might be collected from travelers," said Kamil Alawadhi, IATA's Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East.A Strategy for Aviation in AfricaAt its Focus Africa Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, IATA urged governments to pursue a comprehensive aviation strategy with the following ......read full article

Continued Investment in Aviation Critical as Ethiopia's Passenger Demand Triples by 2044

Continued Investment in Aviation Critical as Ethiopia's Passenger Demand Triples by 204429 April 2026 (Addis Ababa) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called on the Government of Ethiopia to continue prioritizing aviation to sustain the country's strong demand outlook for air travel. With Ethiopia's passenger numbers expected to triple over the next 20 years, continued investment in infrastructure, people, and sustainability will be critical to further expanding aviation's contribution to Ethiopia's long‑term economic growth.Aviation already delivers significant economic and social benefits to Ethiopia. Data from IATA's Value of Air Transport report (2023) shows that aviation supports:USD 2 billion in economic activity, including wider supply chain, employee spending, and tourism impacts—equivalent to 1.2% of GDP527,000 jobs supported across the economy, including aviation, supply chains, and tourism248,400 tonnes of air cargo, supporting trade and ......read full article

DAE Announces Financial Results for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2026

DAE Announces Financial Results for the Three Months Ended  March 31, 2026Quarterly Revenue rose by 15% to a record US$455.5 million, Profit before Tax increased by 19%Dubai, U.A.E., 29 April 2026 – Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd ("DAE") today reported its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2026. The consolidated financial statements can be found here.Selected Financial Highlights: Three months endedUS$ millionsMar 31, 2026Mar 31, 2025Total Revenue455.5395.9Profit before Tax120.4101.2Operating Cash Flow296.3344.7 Pre-Tax Profit Margin26.4%25.6%Pre-Tax Return on Equity13.0%13.0% As atUS$ millionsMar 31, 2026Dec 31, 2025Total Assets16,336.516,547.7Net Loans and Borrowings9,947.510,227.6Available Liquidity4,547.03,400.2 Net-Debt-to-Equity2.50x2.58xUnsecured Debt Percentage88.5%87.8%Liquidity Coverage Ratio1,089%277% Selected Business and Operating Highlights:Number of aircraft acquired: 9 (owned: 9; managed: 0)Number of aircraft sold: 15 (owned: 12; managed: ......read full article

Middle East Public Relations Association (MEPRA) to Bring Together Industry Leaders to Explore "Emerging Stronger: Shaping What Comes Next"

Middle East Public Relations Association (MEPRA) to Bring Together Industry Leaders to Explore "Emerging Stronger: Shaping What Comes Next"The Association's flagship forum will examine how communications is shaping resilience and future strategic prioritiesAbu Dhabi, UAE – 28 April: The Middle East Public Relations Association (MEPRA) has announced the return of its annual flagship forum, the UAE Leadership Majlis, taking place on 23 June 2026 in Abu Dhabi.Now in its 11th edition, the UAE Leadership Majlis will bring together senior communications leaders and industry professionals from across the region for a focused and forward-looking conversation on how the UAE is emerging stronger amid ongoing global and regional shifts, and the role of communications in shaping what comes next.Held under the theme "Emerging Stronger: Shaping What Comes Next," this year's Majlis will provide a platform for meaningful dialogue, practical insights, and peer exchange at a time when clarity, confidence and collaboration are more important than ever.The programme ......read full article

Etihad Airways launches codeshare with Air Cambodia, opening gateway to Angkor Wat

Etihad Airways launches codeshare with Air Cambodia,  opening gateway to Angkor WatDirect access to Siem Reap and key destinations across Vietnam through new partnership with Cambodia's flag carrierPartnership expands Etihad's Southeast Asia footprint Abu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways and Air Cambodia have launched a codeshare partnership today, giving Etihad customers easier access to Cambodia's iconic Angkor Wat temple complex and one of Southeast Asia's most captivating destinations. Through the partnership, Etihad customers can book flights from across its network to Siem Reap via Phnom Penh on a single ticket, with baggage checked through to their final destination. Beyond the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, the city offers vibrant night markets, traditional Khmer cuisine, and rich cultural experiences that draw visitors from across the globe. Air Cambodia passengers will also be able to book Etihad's service between Phnom Penh and Abu Dhabi. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at ......read full article

Southwest joins IATA Schedule Data Exchange Program

Southwest joins IATA Schedule Data Exchange Program27 April 2026 (Geneva) – Southwest Airlines has joined IATA's Schedule Data Exchange Program (SDEP), bringing the number of contributing airlines to 190.The SDEP was launched in late 2023 to build a uniquely airline-owned schedule and minimum connecting time exceptions database. Schedule data underpins many aspects of an airline's business, including network planning, slot coordination, and interline agreements. Data coverage now exceeds 70% available seat kilometers (ASKs) of airlines based in Asia, Middle East, and Africa, and is expected to reach 90% coverage globally by end of 2026. Protecting Industry DataA key benefit of the SDEP lies in its give-to-get principle, where airlines provide their schedule data while receiving enriched global schedule data to power internal analytics and smarter planning. This includes details on flight schedules, aircraft types, cabin configurations, and cargo payload.The SDEP is ......read full article

Etihad Supercharges U.S. Network: Chicago Goes Double Daily as Charlotte Rises to Daily Service

Etihad Supercharges U.S. Network: Chicago Goes Double Daily as Charlotte Rises to Daily ServiceAbu Dhabi-Chicago O’Hare to become double daily from 15 JuneCharlotte upgraded from four-weekly to daily following successful launch in March 2026Strengthens connectivity between the U.S., India and Asia-Pacific via Abu DhabiAbu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is accelerating its growth in the United States with two major enhancements to its North American network, increasing capacity and connectivity across key marketsChicago O’Hare will move to double-daily service, while Charlotte will increase to daily flights from 15 June, building on strong early performance following the launch of services on 20 March 2026Together, the enhancements significantly expand Etihad’s U.S. footprint, strengthening connectivity between North America and high-growth markets across India and Asia-Pacific, while improving access to the U.S. domestic network through partner airlines.The expanded schedule will ......read full article

CNS Preparing for 2026 Annual Partnership Conference in San Francisco

CNS Preparing for 2026 Annual Partnership Conference in San Francisco23 April 2026 - Cargo Network Services Corporation (CNS) is gearing up to host its annual Partnership Conference in San Francisco (USA) from 18-20 May 2026.Being held under the theme “Elevating Air Cargo: Partnerships, Progress & Possibilities”, the conference is the premier networking event for the US air cargo industry, bringing together around 700 stakeholders and representatives from across the air cargo value chain. The CNS Partnership Conference combines informative plenary sessions and presentations focused on innovation and challenges in the cargo business, with a variety of networking and social events.CNS President Alicia Lines will open the event and will be joined by numerous recognized leaders of the cargo and aviation community, including:Brandon Fried, Executive Director, Airforwarder Association, who will deliver this year’s keynote address.Kes Nielsen, General Manager of Amazon Air Cargo, will ......read full article

dnata earmarks A$32 million for cargo facility at Western Sydney International Airport

dnata earmarks A$32 million for cargo facility at Western Sydney International AirportNew purpose-built terminal to handle up to 60,000 tonnes of cargo annuallyInvestment to create 50 direct jobs and strengthen New South Wales’ freight and supply chain capacity Sydney, Australia, April 22, 2026: dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, will invest approximately A$32 million to establish a dedicated cargo terminal operation at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), reinforcing its long-term commitment to the New South Wales market and Australia’s aviation industry. dnata will operate from a 5,000 sqm warehouse facility within WSI’s 24-hour Cargo Precinct, supported by an additional 4,000 sqm of surrounding land. The airport will deliver the site as a cold shell, with dnata undertaking a full operational fit-out of the terminal, including critical infrastructure and the installation of a semi-motorised materials handling system.Approximately A$6 million of the ......read full article

IATA to Open New Office and BSP in Uzbekistan

IATA to Open New Office and BSP in Uzbekistan21 April 2026 (Tashkent) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that it is establishing a permanent presence in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, opening a new office and preparing for the launch of a Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) in the country before the end of the year."Uzbekistan is a growing market that is taking a leading position in Central Asia for passenger and cargo traffic. The IATA office and BSP in Uzbekistan will provide strategic support to grow air travel through boosting aviation safety and operational efficiency. With the opening of our office, IATA experts will be more available to assist airlines and airports to implement global standards in safety and operations," said Rafael Schvartzman, IATA's Regional Vice President for Europe."Importantly, the BSP will give access to airlines to cost-effectively process financial transactions globally while enabling global product ......read full article

Emirates completes more than 40 Travel Rehearsals for youth with autism globally, easing travel anxiety for more than 250 families

Emirates completes more than 40 Travel Rehearsals for youth with autism globally, easing travel anxiety for more than 250 familiesDubai, UAE, 20 April 2026: Emirates has continued its commitment to making travel more accessible for all, by successfully arranging bespoke Emirates Travel Rehearsals across more than 40 cities globally over the past year. With more than 250 families positively impacted, Emirates Travel Rehearsals are designed to support children and young adults with autism, allowing them to practice the journey through the airport to prepare for real flights - easing travel anxiety and empowering them to fly with more confidence.After the initial Emirates Travel Rehearsals in Dubai resulted in positive feedback from families, schools and autism organisations; the Emirates Office of Accessibility & Inclusion formulated the travel rehearsal into an official programme, to be rolled out across its global network.Since April 2025, Emirates’ Airport Services teams have come together to arrange more than 40 of these travel rehearsals across ......read full article

It's time for africa! etihad airways unveils six new destinations, expanding footprint across the continent

It's time for africa! etihad airways unveils six new destinations, expanding footprint across the continentExpansion strengthens Etihad's presence across high-growth African markets, connecting the continent to Abu Dhabi and the world beyondReinforces Abu Dhabi's role as a gateway for trade, cargo and investment flows between Africa and AsiaBuilds on Etihad's growing China network alongside its extensive India network, opening a new corridor linking Africa and Asia through Abu DhabiAbu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways today announced a significant expansion of its Africa network, adding new routes to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ghana, Nigeria and Zimbabwe from Abu Dhabi, as part of its continued global growth strategy.The new services reflect investment in high-growth markets, supporting increasing connectivity across trade, cargo and mobility.The expansion builds directly on Etihad’s recently announced China growth, including increased frequencies and a deepened partnership with China Eastern Airlines. ......read full article

Al Haboob Signals Ambition Ahead of Qatar Debut with New Recruits

Al Haboob Signals Ambition Ahead of Qatar Debut with New Recruits· Saudi-based team targets further success in theGrand Annual Closing Festival in Qatar with a three-camel lineup· Al Haboob adopts quality-over-quantity approach ahead of this weekend’s key regional contestRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, 16 April 2026: Al Haboob (????????) has issued another major statement of intent, investing over 2 million Saudi Riyals in new camels ahead of the Grand Annual Closing Festival at Al Shahaniya Racecourse on April 20 and 21, where it will field a three-camel lineup.Following a second and sixth place finish in recent outings, the world’s first professional camel racing team is eager to prove it belongs among the elite.With a clear intent to win, Al Haboob has confirmed its lineup for the upcoming event in Qatar, with new recruit Hajma joining Mamlaka and Mamlaka 2.0. This carefully selected trio ensures each camel entering the track is fully prepared for the challenge ......read full article

Etihad Airways Makes Travelling with Pets More Accessible with a Special Pets Onboard Promotional Offer

Etihad Airways Makes Travelling with Pets More Accessible with a Special Pets Onboard Promotional Offer Pets Onboard service becomes more accessible with a special promotional offerEtihad remains the only airline in the UAE to offer pets the option to travel in the cabinEnhanced offering supports growing demand for pet travelAbu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is making it more accessible for guests to travel with their cats and dogs, introducing a special promotional offer for its existing Pets Onboard service while continuing to deliver the care, comfort and safety that define the Etihad travel experience.Already the only airline in the UAE to offer guests the option to travel with pets in the cabin, Etihad continues to evolve the service in response to growing demand from travellers who wish to bring important members of the family when they fly.Until 31 May 2026, guests who book and travel within this period using the Pets Onboard service will benefit from a special promotional offer of USD 399 per ......read full article

IATA Ground Handling Conference 2026: Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI

IATA Ground Handling Conference 2026: Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI15 April 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will hold the 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in Cairo, Egypt, from 19–21 May 2026, bringing together industry leaders to address the future of ground operations.Hosted by EGYPTAIR, the event will focus on the theme “Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI.” The conference will examine how human expertise, supported by artificial intelligence and automation, will shape safer, more efficient and resilient ground operations.“Ground operations are becoming increasingly complex as traffic volumes continue to grow. In parallel, AI and automation are creating new opportunities to manage the challenge. This year’s IGHC will focus on how we can combine technology with the expertise of ground handling professionals to deliver safer, more efficient, and more resilient ground operations. This has particular relevance at ......read full article

LEGOLAND® Hotel Dubai Launches Limited-Time 50% Off the Ultimate Family Playcation

LEGOLAND® Hotel Dubai Launches Limited-Time 50% Off the Ultimate Family PlaycationDubai, UAE – 14 April 2026 - LEGOLAND Dubai Resort is inviting families to press pause on the everyday with a limited-time offer of 50% off stays at LEGOLAND® Hotel Dubai. With the parks temporarily closed, the hotel remains open and ready to deliver a complete family escape, reimagined as an all-in-one playcation experience.At a time when families are seeking trusted and hassle-free getaways, LEGOLAND® Hotel Dubai offers a fully immersive stay where everything is taken care of. Designed around creativity, comfort and convenience, it brings together accommodation, dining and entertainment in one place, allowing parents to relax while children enjoy a full-day programme of non-stop entertainment, running from 9AM to 10PM.With half-price stays now available, families can enjoy exceptional value alongside a range of added benefits. These include complimentary breakfast for the whole family, kids eating free at lunch at ......read full article

Etihad airways expands china network & strengthens china eastern joint venture with five new routes and 28 additional weekly flights

Etihad airways expands china network & strengthens china eastern joint venture with five new routes  and 28 additional weekly flightsMajor increase in capacity strengthens air connectivity between the UAE and ChinaTotal mainland China network grows to 35 weekly flights across six key gatewaysExpansion supports trade, tourism and cargo flows across one of the world’s most important economic corridorsBuilds on Etihad’s joint venture with China Eastern Airlines, strengthening passenger connectivity between the UAE and ChinaAbu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has announced a significant expansion of its mainland China network, launching five new routes and adding 28 weekly flights, marking one of the airline’s largest single market increases in recent years.The expansion will see Etihad operate services from Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) to Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), Chengdu (TFU), Hangzhou (HGH) and Shenzhen (SZX), bringing its total operation in mainland China to 35 weekly flights across six ......read full article

Etihad launches Dhaka services, strengthening trade and cargo links between the UAE and Bangladesh

Etihad launches Dhaka services, strengthening trade and cargo links between the UAE and BangladeshSeasonal four-times weekly service from 26 June till 24 October 2026Enhances cargo capacity across key trade corridors while supporting strong passenger demand Strengthens links between the UAE and Bangladesh, serving one of the largest diaspora communities globallyAbu Dhabi, UAE - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, will launch a seasonal service to Dhaka, Bangladesh, from 26 June 2026, strengthening trade and cargo links across the South Asia corridor, while responding to strong and sustained demand for travel and logistics between the UAE and Bangladesh. The four-times weekly service to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) will strengthen connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Bangladesh, while supporting the continued expansion of cargo flows alongside passenger demand across the airline’s global network, with Abu Dhabi serving as a key gateway for trade between South Asia and international markets.Operated ......read full article

PoCs Prove Industry is Ready for Contactless Travel

PoCs Prove Industry is Ready for Contactless Travel08 April 2026 (Singapore) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) published the results of several digital identity Proofs of Concept (PoCs) completed with the support of airlines, airports, technology providers and governments across Europe and Asia-Pacific.The successful PoCs demonstrated that contactless, biometric-enabled international travel is already achievable with digital identity replacing paper documentation.Working together as part of the IATA Strategic Partnerships Program, the partners tested how digital identity stored in mobile wallets and biometric verification can support seamless passenger journeys without repeated paper document checks.Importantly, the PoCs demonstrated that interoperability of systems is sufficiently advanced to support contactless journeys involving multiple carriers and using different digital identity wallets (including Digital ID in Apple Wallet for US Passport holders, and ......read full article

SalamAir Releases First Quarter (Q1) 2026 On-Time Performance Results

SalamAir Releases First Quarter (Q1) 2026 On-Time Performance ResultsMuscat- Sultanate of Oman,05 April 2026SalamAir, Oman’s Low-Cost Carrier, has announced its On-Time Performance (OTP) results for the first quarter of 2026, reinforcing its continued commitment to operational transparency, reliability, and customer trust. OTP is an internationally recognized measure of punctuality, calculated by the percentage of flights departing within 15 minutes of their scheduled departure time. During the first quarter of 2026, SalamAir operated 5520 flights and carried 778,410 passengers across its network, achieving an On-Time Performance of 65.6%. The quarter was impacted by several extraordinary challenges, including regional airspace restrictions, airport closures because of geopolitical developments and rerouting or diversion of aircraft. All these events led to schedule adjustments and disruptions across parts of the network which impacted OTP. SalamAir’s OTP for the fourth quarter of 2025 was ......read full article

From Hag Al Leila to Ramadan to Eid: the journey of the season.

From Hag Al Leila to Ramadan to Eid: the journey of the season.Season of Wulfa brought communities across Dubai together through a citywide programme of cultural celebrations, entertainment and community initiatives, reflecting the progression from the spirit of togetherness and heritage during Hag Al Leila, to the generosity and reflection of Ramadan, and culminating in the shared joy of Eid Al-Fitr. Across the emirate, residents and visitors experienced family-friendly activations, live performances and cultural moments in public spaces, attractions and neighbourhood destinations. From acts of giving and shared meals to vibrant Eid celebrations, the season reinforced values of togetherness, connection and hospitality, showcasing Dubai as a city united in celebration.

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Menzies Aviation surpasses $3bn revenue as record expansion powers future growth

Menzies Aviation surpasses $3bn revenue as record expansion powers future growthGlobal revenue up 16% year-on-year to $3 billion (2024: $2.6 billion) – fifth consecutive year of double-digit growthEBITDA reaches $406m (post IFRS16) with 13.4% marginRecord operational scale: 5.3m flights supported (14.5k per day) with 2.4m tonnes of cargo handledGlobal footprint expands to 347 airports in 65 countries, acquisition of G2 Secure Staff doubles presence in U.S to become largest provider in this marketWorkforce grows to 65,000, increasing global headcount by more than 13,000 2 April 2026, London: Menzies Aviation, the leading service partner to the world’s airports and airlines, has announced record 2025 results, crossing the $3 billion revenue threshold for the first time and consolidating its position as the world’s largest aviation services provider. The company also became the largest aviation services provider in the United States, following the acquisition of G2 Secure Staff – doubling its ......read full article

Air Cargo Demand up 11.2% in February 2026

Air Cargo Demand up 11.2% in February 202631 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for February 2026 global air cargo markets showing:Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), rose by 11.2% compared to February 2025 levels (+11.6% for international operations).Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), increased by 8.5% compared to February 2025 (+9.8% for international operations)."Air cargo demand grew 11.2% in February. Even considering the boost that February received from the movement of goods ahead of Lunar New Year, the month showed strong growth. The outbreak of war in the Middle East at the end of the month, however, makes it difficult to see how full-year performance will unfold. Sharply rising fuel costs, fuel scarcity in parts of the world, and the severe disruption to key cargo hubs in the Gulf are major shifts. While air cargo has repeatedly proven its resilience in the ......read full article

Visarun.ai: Where Visa Mistakes Meet Smarter Solutions

Visarun.ai: Where Visa Mistakes Meet Smarter SolutionsFor many travelers, the most stressful part of an international trip isn’t choosing where to stay or what to see, it’s dealing with visas. The process is often left until the last minute, misunderstood or handled with a bit too much confidence. That’s usually when things start to go wrong.Travel professionals have seen it all: missed departures, delayed itineraries and unnecessary costs, all because of small visa-related oversights. The pattern is familiar. Someone assumes a visa will be “easy” because a friend got it. Another submits documents in a rush, only to realize something doesn’t match. In many cases, it’s not eligibility that’s the problem, it’s the process.Visa requirements are rarely as straightforward as they seem. They depend on multiple factors, including nationality, travel history, purpose of visit and constantly evolving regulations. Two travelers heading to the ......read full article

“Souq Al Jubail in Sharjah Attracts Over 629,000 Visitors During Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr”

“Souq Al Jubail in Sharjah Attracts Over 629,000 Visitors During Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr”Sharjah, March 27, 2026:Souq Al Jubail in Sharjah, Al Dhaid and Kalba welcomed more than 629,000 visitors during the Holy Month of Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr, reaffirming its position as a key strategic pillar supporting food security in the Emirate of Sharjah. This is achieved by ensuring the availability of fresh and diverse food products and maintaining efficient supply chains, particularly during peak seasons that witness increased demand. The market also provides a comprehensive shopping experience, offering a wide range of fresh and food products under one roof.Visitor numbers were distributed across the branches, with Souq Al Jubail in Sharjah attracting approximately 430,000 visitors, while Souq Al Jubail in Al Dhaid recorded around 131,000 visitors, and Souq Al Jubail in Kalba welcomed about 68,000 visitors. These figures reflect the growing demand and customer confidence across the emirate.Eng. Abdulla Al Shamsi, Sr. Manager ......read full article

FedEx Earns Recognition on Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies List

FedEx Earns Recognition on Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies ListMarch 2026 - FedEx Express Corporation (FedEx), the world's largest express transportation company, was named one of Fast Company's 2026 most innovative logistics companies, highlighting the impact of its groundbreaking efforts to reshape global trade, simplify the cross-border shipping experience, and strengthen economic resilience for businesses and consumers worldwide. As the largest company recognized in the logistics sector, FedEx brings unmatched scale and influence, underscoring its leadership in driving industry innovation. Drawing on more than 50 years of expertise, FedEx continues to enable and expand global trade. From helping small businesses bring their dreams to life and products to the world, to transporting critical healthcare shipments where they're needed most, FedEx works to make global supply chains smarter for everyone. Key innovations Fast Company highlighted:Customs AI — A generative-AI ......read full article

Airport Show 2026 rescheduled to October at the Dubai World Trade Centre

Airport Show 2026 rescheduled to October at the  Dubai World Trade CentreDubai, United Arab Emirates, 26 March 2026: RX has confirmed that the 2026 edition of Airport Show co-located with Global Airport Leaders' Forum and Women In Aviation Middle East Conference, originally scheduled to take place from 12–14 May at Dubai World Trade Centre, will now take place from 12-14 October 2026, with the venue remaining unchanged.The decision to reschedule the event has been made to prioritise the safety and well-being of customers, partners and colleagues, and to give the MEASA airport community greater confidence and flexibility to attend.Now in its 25th edition, Airport Show is set to take centre stage as the MEASA region's most influential B2B platform for airport innovation, sustainability, and connectivity. Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline ......read full article

Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub And Lufthansa Technik Middle East Inaugurate New Facility, Expanding Aviation Service Capabilities In Dubai

Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub And Lufthansa Technik Middle East Inaugurate New Facility, Expanding Aviation Service Capabilities In DubaiDubai, United Arab Emirates – 25 March 2026: The Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) at Dubai South has officially inaugurated a new Painting & Grinding Center developed by Lufthansa Technik Middle East, reinforcing the company’s commitment to expanding its capabilities in the region and further strengthening MBRAH’s position as a leading aviation hub supporting advanced aviation services and MRO capabilities.The facility is designed to support component painting and grinding processes used in structural and composite repairs, enabling faster curing and drying times while improving repair efficiency and reducing turnaround times for customers across the region and beyond.The inauguration ceremony was attended by Tahnoon Saif, CEO of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, and Ziad Al Hazmi, CEO of Lufthansa Technik Middle East, along with senior executives from both entities.In his comments, Tahnoon Saif ......read full article

DAE Signs US$2.8 Billion of Unsecured Revolving Credit Facilities Total RCF Capacity Increases to approximately US$4 Billion

DAE Signs US$2.8 Billion of Unsecured Revolving Credit Facilities  Total RCF Capacity Increases to approximately US$4 BillionDubai, U.A.E., 24 March 2026 – Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd ("DAE"), the global aviation services company, today announced that it has signed agreements to enter into new long-term, unsecured revolving credit facilities worth US$2.8 billion. The new facilities replace an existing US$1.4 billion facility, and the maturity date of the new facilities is March 2031. The addition of the new facilities increases DAE's revolving credit facility capacity to approximately US$4 billion.The new revolving credit facilities comprise both United States Dollar and United Arab Emirates Dirham commitments totaling US$2.3 billion in conventional funding and US$0.5 billion in Shari'a-compliant liquidity from 15 global financial institutions. Emirates NBD and First Abu Dhabi Bank each acted as Initial Mandated Lead Arranger, Bookrunner, and Coordinator on the conventional facility, and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank acted as ......read full article

EU Must Review EU ETS to Support Competitiveness as Aviation Decarbonizes

EU Must Review EU ETS to Support Competitiveness as Aviation DecarbonizesEU Must Review EU ETS to Support Competitiveness as Aviation Decarbonizes24 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) calls for the review of the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) to enhance European air connectivity and economic resilience by improving the competitiveness of Europe’s air transport industry.IATA calls for the review to:Ensure full implementation of CORSIA for all international flights, including flights within the European Economic Area (EEA) routes. To prevent market fragmentations, the EU should avoid regional derogations, additional eligibility hurdles, and overlapping measures that conflict with this global framework.Enable a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) book-and-claim system for the claiming of environmental attributes under the EU ETS. Allowing purchase-based SAF claiming will enhance investment certainty and affordability which are needed to ......read full article

Coral Beach Resort Sharjah sets UAE hospitality benchmark as first signatory of Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action

Coral Beach Resort Sharjah sets UAE hospitality benchmark as first signatory of Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action• The Declaration is a global initiative that aims to unite the tourism sector in reducing carbon emissions by half by 2030.Sharjah, UAE (March 22, 2026): — Coral Beach Resort Sharjah is proud to announce its recent acknowledgment and listing as a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration Initiative on Climate Action in Tourism. This recognition cements Coral Beach Resort Sharjah’s status as the only hotel in the UAE to receive this honour, further enhancing our commitment to sustainable tourism.The Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism is a global initiative launched during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in 2021 aimed at bringing together the tourism sector to cut carbon emissions by half by 2030 and reach net zero as early as possible before 2050, in line with science-based targets.Coral Beach Resort Sharjah’s recognition aligns perfectly with the Sharjah International Travel & ......read full article

SalamAir Signs eSIM and e-Visa Partnership with Arcube

SalamAir Signs eSIM and e-Visa Partnership with ArcubeMuscat- Sultanate of Oman, 18 March 2026SalamAir, Oman’s Low-Cost Carrier, has announced a strategic collaboration with Arcube, a UK-based travel-technology company, to launch eSIM and e-Visa services, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to enhancing passengers experience beyond the flight. The newly launched services are integrated into SalamAir’s digital booking platforms, enabling passengers to manage essential travel needs in one place, from connectivity to travel documentation, before, during and after their journey. The new ancillary partnership between SalamAir and Arcube will support SalamAir’s delivery of timely and personalized modern retailing for its passengers. The new eSIM service will enable SalamAir passengers to activate mobile data instantly upon arrival without the need for a physical SIM card, providing access to 5,000+ data packages across more than 213 countries and territories. This will ......read full article

Air Travel Demand Will More Than Double by 2050

Air Travel Demand Will More Than Double by 205017 March 2026 (Geneva) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its Long‑Term Demand Projections (LTDP) for air travel, showing that global air passenger demand is expected to more than double by 2050.Under the mid‑range scenario, demand is forecast to reach 20.8 trillion revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), based on a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% (2024-2050) from the 9 trillion RPKs seen in 2024.A higher growth scenario would see a 3.3% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 21.9 trillion RPKs in 2050. A lower growth scenario would see 2.9% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 19.5 trillion RPKs by 2050.The different scenarios are driven by alternative modeling of long-term economic growth, populations, aviation fuel price trends, the global energy transition, and air transport supply-side capacity development.“The outlook for air travel is positive. People want to travel and, under ......read full article

IATA Launches DG Digital to Fully Digitalize Dangerous Goods Declarations

IATA Launches DG Digital to Fully Digitalize Dangerous Goods Declarations13 March 2026 (Lima) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched DG Digital, IATA's digital Dangerous Goods Declaration solution, as a feature of DG AutoCheck. The new tool fully digitalizes the creation and approval of shippers' declarations for more than 3,800 dangerous items—from lithium batteries to explosives and chemicals. This results in faster document sharing, improved safety, and a significant reduction in rejected shipments.Today, 95% of Dangerous Goods Declarations are still received in paper format. These declarations must be scanned, converted into a PDF document, then uploaded into DG AutoCheck to be validated. With DG Digital, declarations are generated and transmitted digitally from creation by the shipper to validation. This creates a more efficient and streamlined workflow compared with traditional paper-based processes.Digital DeclarationsDG Digital captures all required ......read full article

IATA Announces World Data Symposium 2026 in Singapore to Accelerate Aviation's Data, Technology & Cybersecurity Transformation

IATA Announces World Data Symposium 2026 in Singapore to Accelerate Aviation's Data, Technology & Cybersecurity Transformation13 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will hold its 2026 edition of the World Data Symposium (WDS) in Singapore on 8–9 April. The Symposium will bring together data, technology, and cybersecurity leaders to share ideas and showcase real use cases around three themes driving transformation in aviation:Using data to drive operational efficiency and stronger strategic decision-making.Strengthening cybersecurity readiness and resilience across the entire aviation value chain.Leveraging AI and automation to transform operational performance and enhance passenger experience."Data is one of aviation's most powerful strategic assets. The IATA World Data Symposium is where aviation and technology professionals share expertise and accelerate progress toward a smarter, safer, and more connected future. Two timely focus areas for this second edition will look at how AI fits into ......read full article

IATA Advances AI Initiatives to Support Air Cargo Operations

IATA Advances AI Initiatives to Support Air Cargo Operations12 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is advancing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in air cargo with three initiatives to improve operational efficiency, strengthen safety and compliance, and accelerate innovation across the global air cargo value chain:Making publications more efficient: IATA is launching an AI Subject Matter Expert (AI SME), a mobile and web-based application that helps operational teams quickly find information in IATA cargo and safety publications by asking questions in plain language. The tool provides accurate answers within seconds. This supports faster operational decision-making, strengthens compliance, and improves efficiency in time-critical environments.The AI SME will be available initially for the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) and the IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM) and will be rolled out progressively across IATA’s suite of reference ......read full article

Air Cargo Enable $157 Billion in Frontloaded Trade and Supported AI Growth in 2025

Air Cargo Enable $157 Billion in Frontloaded Trade and Supported AI Growth in 202511 March 2026 (Lima, Peru) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) today released a report, showing air cargo’s vital role in sustaining global trade and supporting economic growth in 2025 amid severe trade policy uncertainty. Two key report findings are that:Air cargo enabled the frontloading of $157 billion US imports in the first quarter of 2025.Air cargo transported more than two thirds of global AI-related goods in 2025.These activities supported global trade growth of 2.4% in 2025—well above initial forecasts by the World Trade Organization. Global GDP also expanded by 3.2% despite significant policy headwinds.“Air cargo is a structural component of global economic resilience. In 2025, it helped businesses absorb tariff shocks, enabled rapid trade restructuring, and supported the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) investment, helping sustain trade and economic growth in a challenging ......read full article

Highlights Three Priorities for Air Cargo

Highlights Three Priorities for Air Cargo11 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted three priorities for the global air cargo industry:Accelerating digitalizationStrengthening global standardsEnhancing safety and security"Air cargo plays a critical role in connecting businesses to global markets and keeping supply chains moving, even as the operating environment becomes more complex. With so many external events impacting global supply chains—including the tariff and geopolitical shocks—it is important that we work on building resilience in areas we can control or influence. Working together to strengthen digitalization, global standards, and supply chain security will position air cargo well to continue supporting economic growth by connecting products to markets," said Brendan Sullivan, IATA's Global Head of Cargo at the opening of the IATA World Cargo Symposium (WCS) in Lima, Peru.Accelerating ......read full article

IATA Releases 2025 Safety Report

IATA Releases 2025 Safety Report0 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its 2025 Annual Safety Report demonstrating a solid year of safety performance with the following highlights:The all-accident rate of 1.32 per million flights (one accident per 759,646 flights) was better than the 1.42 recorded in 2024 but slightly above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 1.27.There were 51 accidents in 2025 among 38.7 million flights. That is fewer than the 54 accidents among 37.9 million flights in 2024, but above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 44 accidents.There were eight fatal accidents in 2025. That is more than the seven fatal accidents recorded in 2024 and the five-year average of six fatal accidents.There were 394 onboard fatalities in 2025, more than the 244 fatalities reported in 2024 and the five-year average of 198."Flying is the safest form of long-distance travel. Accidents are extremely rare and each one ......read full article

IATA Focus Africa to Spotlight Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency

IATA Focus Africa to Spotlight Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency9 March 2026 (Amman) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2026 edition of IATA Focus Africa Conference will convene under the theme 'Elevating Aviation Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency in Africa' in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 29-30 April 2026, hosted by Ethiopian Airlines."Aviation has the potential to do much more to enable Africa's economic and social development. Improving safety, harmonizing regulations, and reducing costs while increasing operational efficiency are at the top of the agenda for this edition of the IATA Focus Africa Conference. The demand to support 3-4% growth annually is there. Focus Africa aims to align the continent's aviation stakeholders in taking the pragmatic steps needed to turn potential into a sustainable reality," said Kamil Alawadhi, IATA's Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East.Ethiopian Airlines hosted the ......read full article

Air Cargo Demand up 5.6% in January 2026

Air Cargo Demand up 5.6% in January 20262 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for January 2026 global air cargo markets showing:Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), rose by 5.6% compared to January 2025 levels (+7.2% for international operations).Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), increased by 3.6% compared to January 2025 (+5.7% for international operations)."The demand for air cargo had a robust start to 2026, recording 5.6% year-on-year growth in January. At the regional level, the story is more polarized. Carriers in Africa, Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and Europe all reported faster growth than the global average. In contrast, carriers in the Americas reported aggregate contractions.The resilience of air cargo will continue to be tested in the coming months. In addition to the long-running uncertainties of evolving US trade policies, the outbreak of hostilities in ......read full article

2026 Begins with 3.8% Air Passenger Demand Growth

2026 Begins with 3.8% Air Passenger Demand Growth2 March 2026 (Geneva) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for January 2026 global passenger demand with the following highlights: Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was up 3.8% compared to January 2025. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), increased 3.5% year-on-year. The load factor was 82.0% (+0.2 ppt compared to January 2025), a record high for January.International demand rose 5.9% compared to January 2025. Capacity was up 5.8% year-on-year, and the load factor was 82.5% (+0.1 ppt compared to January 2025).Domestic demand increased 0.1% compared to January 2025. Capacity was down -0.4% year-on-year. The load factor was 81.2% (+0.4 ppt compared to January 2025).January demand was skewed by a shift in the Lunar New Year from January in 2025 to February in 2026. Lunar New Year typically drives a spike in demand, as families reconnect to celebrate the ......read full article

UK eVisa rollout to transform visa application experience

UK eVisa rollout to transform visa application experienceeVisas replace visa vignette stickers, removing the need for passport retention for most customersPeople can apply for visas for other countries while the UK visa decision is in progressUK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is introducing a major upgrade to its visa application process with the continued rollout of eVisas. From 25 February 2026, most UK visa customers will benefit from this digital transformation.The eVisa system replaces traditional visa vignette stickers in passports, meaning customers will no longer need to part with their passport while a decision is being made on their application. It also means customers will only need to visit the Visa Application Centre once to confirm their identity and submit documents if required. This innovation provides travellers greater flexibility for international travel plans.“Over 10 million people are already using secure and convenient eVisas, which are replacing physical ......read full article

Emirates SkyCargo deploys two additional freighters to India, expanding capacity to cater to increased demand

Emirates SkyCargo deploys two additional freighters to India, expanding capacity to cater to increased demandMumbai, India, 26 February, 2026 – Building on its four-decade commitment, Emirates SkyCargo eyes further growth in India, with the deployment of two additional weekly freighters, one to Mumbai and one to Ahmedabad. The cargo arm of the world’s largest international airline continues to strengthen trade lanes and connect businesses in India with their partners, suppliers and customers all over the world, with an average uplift of 3,000 tonnes weekly. Emirates currently serves India with three weekly freighters – one to Mumbai and two to Ahmedabad – as well as bellyhold capacity in 167 passenger services to nine gateways. The new freighter service to Mumbai will launch on 4 March 2026, and connect Dubai, Singapore and India, while the Ahmedabad service will be a direct and dedicated freighter, and also launch in March. The airline expects to carry key commodities such as pharmaceuticals, fresh fruits, vegetables ......read full article

IATA Opens Nominations for 2026 Edition of Diversity & Inclusion Awards

IATA Opens Nominations for 2026 Edition of Diversity & Inclusion Awards26 February 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the opening of nominations for the 2026 edition of the IATA Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Awards. The Awards recognize excellence in the promotion of diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry in three categories:The Inspirational Role Model Award recognizes a woman holding a senior position within the air transport industry who has had substantial impact on diversity and inclusion in aviation through her significant influence at global level.The High Flyer Award recognizes a female aviation professional under the age of 40 who has demonstrated leadership through concrete action in favor of diversity and inclusion, making a positive impact on the industry.The Diversity & Inclusion Team Award recognizes an airline that has achieved measurable positive change in diversity and inclusion as a result of the work done in this ......read full article