The additional frequencies will be introduced in phases to meet growing demand and provide greater flexibility for passengers travelling between the two cities.

The existing two daily flights will increase to three daily flights effective from 5 June, followed by the introduction of a fourth flight from 15 June, with a fifth daily flight resuming during the summer season. The flights will be operated on Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 aircraft.

This expansion reinforces Qatar Airways’ commitment to enhancing connectivity within the region and supporting both business and leisure travel between Qatar and the UAE with up to 35 weekly flights.

Qatar Airways has been steadily restoring its network across the Middle East and is currently operating to over 20 destinations in the region. The airline resumed operations to Dubai (DXB) and Sharjah (SHJ) in April, and restarted flights to Abu Dhabi (AUH) in May.

Building on this momentum, Qatar Airways is continuing the phased restoration and expansion of its global network to over 160 destinations by this summer.

(Source: Qatar Airways)

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“To see our very first custom-built 787 Dreamliners touch down in Riyadh is a historic moment for us, and a momentous day for Saudi aviation,” said Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas… “We are building an airline, and also opening a new gateway to the world from the heart of the Kingdom.”

The deliveries are a step forward for Saudi Arabia’s aviation strategy, which aims to attract 150 million visitors and serve 330 million passengers annually by 2030. 

Riyadh Air’s fleet plan includes up to 72 Boeing 787s that will connect the Kingdom to regional and long-haul markets, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, and serve more than 100 destinations by 2030.

“Riyadh Air is bringing to life a vision of modern world-class travel, and we are delighted to support them as they open new possibilities for the Kingdom and the world,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ President and CEO  Stephanie Pope. “The 787 Dreamliner gives Riyadh Air unmatched efficiency, flexibility across routes and a beautiful interior that will deliver a phenomenal travel experience.”

The new aircraft features a four-class cabin configuration: Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy with a total of 289 seats.

Commercial ticket sales for a daily Riyadh-London Heathrow service started last week, ahead of the deployment of the new aircraft on the route, set for 1 July. 

Meanwhile, the airline has been experimenting with ad hoc flights to London since October, using a leased Boeing 787, with ticket sales limited to airline staff and their families.

Riyadh Air recently signed a partnership agreement with Air India to lay the groundwork for future codeshare and interline arrangements, designed to offer seamless connectivity between India, Saudi Arabia, and broader international destinations once operations expand.

Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the airline’s immediate sights are set on scaling up to nearly 20 destinations by the end of 2026, with an ultimate goal of reaching more than 100 destinations by 2030.

Flight schedule: 787s to London

(Source: Boeing and Riyadh)

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The campaign is a direct response to critical feedback from frontline ATIA members. Travel agents and tour operators report that while clients are transiting through major hubs such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha without incident, Australia’s rigid Level 4 (“Do Not Travel”) blanket advisory is exposing these travellers to an unintended travel insurance void. 

Following extensive national exposure across News Corp, all commercial television networks, and widespread radio, ATIA members will now also be able to amplify the call for common sense via a Member Toolkit with social media assets, key talking points for clients, and template letters to key decision-makers.  

Since the conflict started, ATIA has been working in partnership with the Federal Government and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). However, the campaign has reached a critical inflexion point. Australia is now a distinct international outlier. Key global allies, including the UK, Germany, France, and Ireland, have already updated their risk parameters, downgrading transit through these airports to Level 3. 

While ATIA is a staunch supporter of DFAT and the Smartraveller network, it warns that maintaining an advisory disconnected from the reality on the ground is actively eroding public trust, with returning Australians telling family and friends to ignore official advice. ATIA is demanding a staged, proportionate response that moves airport transit to Level 3 (“Reconsider your need to travel”), recognising that a 90-minute airside transit carries a fundamentally different risk profile to an extended holiday in-country. 

ATIA CEO: Dean Long noted: “This campaign started exactly where it should: with our members. Our travel advisor and tour operator members raised the alarm because their clients are transiting these airports safely every day. Yet, many of them are flying into a travel insurance void because the official advice refuses to decouple a brief airport transit from an in-country holiday.” 

“We have worked constructively and quietly with the government for two months now, but we have reached an inflexion point where Australia is a total outlier. More than 150,000 Australians have transited these hubs safely over the last six weeks alone. We are absolutely not telling people to holiday in Dubai or Doha; we are asking for a staged, commonsense approach for transit passengers.” 

“The greatest risk right now is that Australians stop trusting Smartraveller altogether because the advice doesn’t match the reality on the ground. That is a dreadful outcome for travellers, for the industry, and for the government. Following this weekend’s incredible wave of national media support, we are providing our members with the tools and assets to stand together and push for a commonsense adjustment immediately.” 

(Source: ATIA)

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The milestone supports Saudia’s fleet growth programme and reflects its continued investment in advanced aircraft models that enhance operational efficiency, guest experience, and sustainability performance.

With a range of up to 8,700 kilometres and a flight duration of up to nine hours, the A321XLR gives Saudia greater flexibility to operate longer international routes with the efficiency of a narrow-body aircraft. This capability enables Saudia to expand international connectivity more efficiently, aligning aircraft capacity to market demand while maintaining a high-quality onboard experience.

The aircraft also marks the first delivery to feature core elements of “The New Saudia Experience”, Saudia’s new onboard offering focused on comfort, connectivity, entertainment, dining, and service consistency across the guest journey. The cabin is configured with 24 business class suites designed for privacy and comfort, alongside 120 Guest Class seats featuring enhanced seat design, 13-inch personal entertainment screens, and convenient charging ports to support a more comfortable guest journey.

Saudia Group’s fleet investments also deliver broader industrial and economic value to the Kingdom. Through its recent deal with Airbus for 105 confirmed aircraft, the Group is supporting local content, creating opportunities for Saudi suppliers, and strengthening Saudi participation in global aviation supply chains. As part of the agreement, Airbus will continue working with suppliers in the Kingdom to support their qualification for global aviation supply chains, helping build national capabilities and generate long-term economic value beyond aircraft acquisition.

Saudia is scheduled to add 15 Airbus A321XLR aircraft to its fleet by 2027, as part of its wider fleet growth program. The aircraft will support network growth across key travel segments, including tourism, business, major events, and pilgrimage travel, contributing to Vision 2030 and the Saudi Aviation Strategy as the Kingdom prepares to host major global events in the years ahead, including the AFC Asian Cup 2027, Expo 2030, and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

(Source: Saudia)

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Building on the legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the new livery reflects the next chapter in Qatar Airways’ journey with FIFA as the Official Airline Partner of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The special-livery aircraft will operate to key destinations across Europe, the US and Asia, engaging fans around the world as excitement continues to build ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

In addition to the exterior design, the aircraft interior features bespoke cabin dressing inspired by the FIFA World Cup 2026. Designed exclusively for this special livery, it brings the tournament’s ambience and excitement into the in-flight experience. Following the tournament, the aircraft will continue to fly with both the special livery and cabin dressing to commemorate the event.

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be hosted across the US, Canada and Mexico, bringing together the world’s best national teams in the largest edition of the tournament to date.

(Source: Qatar Airways)

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Etihad Guest members can now redeem miles for award travel across Bangkok Airways’ network to popular tourist destinations in Thailand, such as Samui Island.

Regionally, the partnership applies to PG’s flights to Luang Prabang, Laos, and Siem Reap, Cambodia. 

Bangkok Airways’ FlyerBonus members can redeem their points to explore Etihad’s expanding global network, including new destinations like Palma de Mallorca, Krakow and Salalah via its award-winning hub in Abu Dhabi.

Etihad Guest Miles earned can be redeemed across a wide range of rewards, including flights, cabin upgrades, hotels, holidays and shopping through the Etihad Guest Reward Shop, offering members flexibility and choice at every stage of their journey.

Etihad Guest Managing Director Mark Potter said: “Partnering with Bangkok Airways further enhances the value of the Etihad Guest programme, creating more opportunities for members to redeem their miles on every journey, wherever they choose to fly… Thailand is one of our most valued and in-demand markets. This partnership gives our members access to some of the region’s most desirable destinations while redeeming Etihad Guest Miles along the way.”

The new partnership launches as Etihad continues to expand its presence across Southeast Asia. In 2025, Etihad launched multiple new destinations across the region, including Krabi, Chiang Mai, Phnom Penh, Hanoi and Hong Kong, further strengthening connectivity from Abu Dhabi to key Asian markets and creating more opportunities for Etihad Guest members to redeem miles across an increasingly diverse network.

Etihad operates direct flights from Abu Dhabi to four popular leisure destinations across Thailand: Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi and Chiang Mai. 

Bangkok remains one of Etihad’s most popular destinations, with six daily flights. From October, Etihad will introduce its flagship A380 on the evening service, significantly increasing capacity ahead of the peak winter travel season and offering travellers greater choice and seamless connectivity between Southeast Asia, Abu Dhabi and beyond.

(Source: Etihad Airways)

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The results demonstrate robust performance in the final month, marked by military hostilities in the Persian Gulf, reaffirming its position as one of the most resilient groups in global aviation.

Throughout the financial year 2025/26, the airline carried more than 41.8 million passengers, maintaining extensive global connectivity through Hamad International Airport. The group’s cargo division transported more than 1.43 million tonnes of chargeable weight, advancing its position as the world’s largest air freight carrier with a 12% global market share.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Hamad Al-Khater, said: “It is not often that a single financial year asks an organisation to demonstrate both the best of what it can achieve and the depth of what it can withstand. The 2025/26 financial year did both, and the Qatar Airways Group rose to each in turn.

“These results speak to the strength of this Group across every measure that matters — a strong balance sheet, industry-leading operations, partnerships of real depth, and people who maintained the standards this group is known for, even under the most demanding conditions. 

“Behind every result are 57,800 people, working across more than 90 countries. In the final weeks of the financial year, many of them were managing an active crisis with a standard of professionalism that defines this organisation as much as any financial metric, and it deserves to be recognised. 

“We are actively rebuilding our global network with the confidence that comes from a balance sheet that has never been stronger, partnerships that proved their depth when we needed them most.”

Key achievements during 2025/26

Record-breaking fleet expansion: Qatar Airways Group signed landmark agreements with Boeing and GE Aerospace to acquire and service up to 210 aircraft and 400 engines, among the most significant fleet commitments in commercial aviation history.

World’s Best Airline: For a Record Ninth Time: Qatar Airways was named World’s Best Airline 2025 by Skytrax,  an unprecedented recognition that cements its excellence in global aviation.

Cirium Platinum Award for Operational Excellence: Recognising the airline’s 86% on-time performance and elite operational standards, placing it among the world’s top five most punctual carriers.

World’s Most Connected Widebody Fleet: Qatar Airways operates the world’s first and largest Starlink-equipped widebody fleet, with high-speed in-flight connectivity live across Boeing 777, Airbus A350, and Boeing 787-8 aircraft, bringing seamless, free in-flight internet to passengers on routes worldwide, including long-haul and ultra-long-haul.

Looking ahead, Qatar Airways continues to rebuild its global schedule, reaching more than 160 destinations by summer 2026.

(Source: Qatar Airways)

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This is the second time the dates have shifted from the traditional slot in early May. The first revision is scheduled for August for a show that convenes annually in the Dubai World Trade Centre.

RX Global, Regional Portfolio Director – UAE, Danielle Curtis, said: “We have been listening and working closely with our exhibitors, partners and stakeholders from across the global travel industry, and the decision to move Arabian Travel Market 2026 to 14–17 September reflects that ongoing dialogue and collaboration.

“Our priority is always to ensure that ATM delivers the strongest possible platform for business, networking and partnership opportunities for the international travel community. Following industry feedback, we are pleased that these new dates will allow exhibitors, buyers and visitors from around the world to maximise their participation and engagement at the event.

“We would like to thank our strategic partners, including Dubai World Trade Centre, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, IHG and Al Rais Travel, for their continued collaboration and support in making these revised dates possible. Together, we remain committed to delivering a world-class event that supports the continued growth and evolution of the global travel and tourism industry.”

Now in its 33^rd edition, Arabian Travel Market serves as a key global platform connecting destinations, travel suppliers, hospitality brands, airlines, technology providers and industry professionals from across the travel ecosystem.

ATM 2026 will continue to be held under the theme “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology”, exploring the trends, technologies and innovations shaping the future of global travel. 

The event will also spotlight ATM Travel Tech, the dedicated co-located show focused on the rapidly evolving travel technology sector, alongside the Tech & Innovation Zone, an immersive hub showcasing the latest developments in AI, immersive experiences, smart mobility, fintech, robotics and sustainable travel solutions.

The ATM conference programme includes the Global Stage, Future Stage, located within the Tech & Innovation Zone, and Experience Hub, which will bring together key tourism leaders and experts to examine the evolving challenges and opportunities shaping international tourism.

Confirmed contributors on the Global Stage include Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company, delivering the session “ATM Annual Trends Report: Middle East Momentum & Market Shifts”.

The company will be joined by Euromonitor’s Stephen Dutton, who will lead a session titled “The State of Travel: Inflation, Polycrisis & the New Travel Reality.”

ATM 2026 is expected to welcome thousands of travel professionals and exhibitors from around the world following the confirmation of the revised September dates, highlighting Dubai’s role as a global platform for tourism industry dialogue, collaboration and innovation.

The event was originally scheduled for 4 to 7 May, but due to ongoing military hostilities in the Persian Gulf, the dates were shifted to 17 to 20 August.

The latest shift to 14 to 17 September was decided after further feedback from international exhibitors, buyers, and global travel stakeholders.  

(Source: ATM 2026)

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The latest brand additions comprise Almanac Hotels, Regal Hotels, STORY Hotels and TemptingPlaces Collection. Together, their 22 new properties strengthen GHA’s portfolio across Europe, the Middle East and Asia, expanding GHA’s presence in ever-popular cities such as Hong Kong, Barcelona, Vienna and Prague, while entering emerging markets like Zagreb in Croatia and Rabat in Morocco.

GHA CEO Chris Hartley commented: “Our continued expansion reflects the strength of our alliance proposition and the growing desire for collaboration within the independent sector. With the addition of these brands, we are diversifying our portfolio and the value we deliver to over 35 million GHA Discovery members.”

Almanac Hotels

Almanac Hotels is a family-owned boutique hospitality brand founded by Austrian entrepreneur Herbert Haselbacher and his daughter Tina, with flagship properties in Barcelona, Vienna, and Prague — all in prime city locations. The brand creates immersive, design-forward stays that honour the past while embracing neighbourhood restaurants and bars that champion locality, and collaborations with regional artists and creatives.

Regal Hotels International

One of Asia’s leading hotel operators, founded in 1979, brings a portfolio of 11 properties in Hong Kong and beyond into GHA Discovery. Spanning its three brands – Regal, Regala and iclub – the group offers 6,800 rooms and over 30 dining venues.

STORY Hotels & Resorts

STORY Hotels & Resorts delivers upscale hospitality experiences rooted in local culture and contemporary luxury at its five hotels in the Middle East, North Africa and the Indian Ocean. From beachfront resorts to urban escapes, the brand blends contemporary design, wellness, and curated dining.

TemptingPlaces Collection

With exceptional properties such as Château d’Augerville Golf & Spa Resort in France and Dent Blanche Resort in Switzerland, TemptingPlaces Collection embodies the French touch, combining elegance, freedom, discretion and expertise. 

New hotel openings

Since the beginning of the year, existing brands have also expanded GHA Discovery’s footprint by adding 14 new hotels and resorts worldwide, spanning luxury resorts, urban hotels, and heritage properties. Standout openings include the highly anticipated Capella Kyoto in Japan, Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi in Florence, Corinthia Rome, Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp in Zambia, and Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel on Australia’s Sunshine Coast, among others.

(Source: GHA)

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Boosting connectivity across Africa, the airline will restart four weekly flights to Seychelles (SEZ) and two weekly flights to Kigali (KGL) from 16 June, and a daily flight to Marrakesh (RAK) from 1 July.

Qatar Airways serves the following destinations with increased flights:

Alexandria (HBE) – increased three weekly flights to up to seven;

Cairo (CAI) – increased from 28 weekly flights to up to 35;

Cape Town (CPT) – increased from daily flights to up to 10;

Dar es Salaam (DAR) – increased from three weekly flights to up to daily;

Lusaka (LUN)-Harare (HRE) – increased from five weekly flights to up to daily;

Maputo (MPM)-Durban (DUR) – increased from four weekly flights to up to daily.

Qatar Airways flights to Port Sudan (PZU)

Additionally, the airline is launching three weekly flights to Port Sudan, Sudan, from 2 July. Passengers travelling to Port Sudan from key markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, such as Oman and Pakistan, can transfer through Hamad International Airport.  

Departing every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday:

Doha (DOH) to Port Sudan (PZU) – Flight QR1319: Departure 0900; Arrival 1100
Port Sudan (PZU) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR1320: Departure 1225; Arrival 1620

(Source: Qatar Airways)

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