News Desk RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued an urgent appeal to all individuals planning to perform Hajj, stressing the absolute necessity of verifying the validity of their Hajj permits before making any financial commitments or travel arrangements. Ministry officials stated that permit compliance is foundational to the security of pilgrims and the orderly movement of …

News Desk MUSCAT: SalamAir, Oman’s Low-Cost Carrier, has announced the opening of sales for its newest route to Kigali, Rwanda, further expanding its growing presence across the African market. Flights are set to commence on 21st July 2026, subject to regulatory approvals, with the airline operating two weekly flights between Muscat and Kigali on Tuesday and Thursday, offering passengers convenient and affordable travel options. One-way Lite fares on the …

By Javed Iqbal KARACHI: The Consulate of Sri Lanka organized a colorful and lively celebration of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year (Surya Udanaya) at the lush lawns of Iqra University Defence Campus. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from the Sri Lankan community residing in Karachi, as well as Sri Lankan students studying at various educational institutions. The ceremony featured …

News Desk PARIS: Paris has been named Official Host Destination for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2026, with the Gala Ceremony to take place in the French capital on 9 December 2026 as the culmination of the two-day World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance Summit. The announcement marks a significant strengthening of the strategic partnership between the Awards and the Alliance, bringing together …

Becoming the First Airline in Saudi Arabia to Adopt the Evidence-Based Training (EBT) Program for Pilots RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA: flynas, the leading low-cost airline in the world and the best LCC in the Middle East, has officially signed an agreement with Airbus to implement both the Evidence-Based Training (EBT) framework and the Airbus MATe Suite, a cutting-edge digital training platform, …

By Rafiq Vayani ABU DHABI: 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 …

By Rafiq Vayani KARACHI: The Consulate of Malaysia in Karachi was delighted to take part in the vibrant Songkran Festival hosted by the Royal Thai Consulate. Held at IVY Tower, the celebration beautifully brought Thailand’s rich cultural heritage to life through traditional rituals, lively water festivities, and an impressive spread of authentic Thai cuisine. The event was officiated by H.E. …

News Desk DUBAI: Emirates’ flagship A380, long celebrated as one of aviation’s most iconic aircraft, is set to reach new heights as the first installation of next-generation Starlink Wi-Fi onboard has just been completed. The Emirates A380 was one of the first commercial aircraft in the world to offer internet to its customers, with first generation systems offering a total …

By Rafiq Vayani MANAMA, Kingdom of Bahrain: The Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) introduced an optional deferral of first-quarter fees for tourism businesses, including hotels, serviced and furnished apartments, and licensed tourist restaurants. The move aims to support business continuity while strengthening the tourism sector’s resilience in partnership with private sector stakeholders. As part of its strategy to strengthen …

News Desk SHARJAH: In a world that rarely pauses, Sharjah Collection invites travellers to begin their day differently with a sense of renewal, balance, and quiet indulgence. Introducing “Energize Your Morning” at Al Badayer Retreat, a thoughtfully curated sunrise experience that seamlessly blends wellness, nourishment, and the serene beauty of the desert. Set against the golden dunes of central Sharjah, …