SINGAPORE, 4 January 2024: Singapore Tourism Board suspended Al Faheem Tours & Travels Pte Ltd (travel agent licence number 03211) (“AF”) from conducting travel agent activities with effect from 28 May 2024, following its breach of the Travel Agents Act 1975.
Identified as an Umrah* travel service provider on its Facebook page, the travel company still needs to submit its audited statement of accounts (AA) within six months after the close of its financial year. Its failure to pay the financial penalty in lieu of suspension or revocation was imposed based on the contravention.
The suspension will remain in effect until the travel company has paid the financial penalty or for up to six months, whichever is earlier. During the suspension period, AF will be required to fulfil its existing obligations to its customers but will not be allowed to accept new travel bookings.
In its statement, STB said it “takes a serious view against errant travel agents and will not hesitate to take necessary actions to protect the reputation of Singapore’s travel industry.”
* Essentially, Umrah means ‘a visit’ to the Holy Kaaba (the Sacred House of God) in Arabic and can be performed by anyone, anytime of the year; unlike Hajj, which is an obligatory pilgrimage to Makkah, performed every year within the first 10 days of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah.Travel agencies specialise in offering Umrah travel packages for pilgrims.
BANGKOK, 4 June 2024: Easier visa rules, new visa categories, and longer visa-free stays of up to 60 days are in the pipeline, but they are likely to take effect late June or early July, a PR government release cautioned.
News updated: The visa changes have now been approved and have been active since 15 July 2024.
The Thai Cabinet approved several visa and travel facilitation measures on 28 May 2024. It follows a proposal by the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, designed to stimulate Thailand’s economy and promote tourism. It marks the first major reform of visa measures and guidelines in 22 years.
Photo credit: Tourism Authority of Thailand. Bangkok nightscape.
The measures are divided into three stages — short, medium and long-term. According to the PR Government statement, five short-term measures are “expected to take effect in late June or early July 2024
The explanation of the possible time frame (late June or early July) countered inaccurate information posted on a UK government website and by over-enthusiastic inbound travel companies headquartered in Bangkok. They should have known better than to flag the Thai Cabinet’s rulings without the proviso that changes to laws and ministerial regulations are only effective after officially announcing them in the Royal Gazette. It caused confusion at the country’s gateway airports as some travellers assumed the 60-day visa-free stay had already been approved and was active.
Short-term measures
1) Extending visa exemption for tourists and short-term business visitors to 60 days (previously 30 days) for passport holders from 93 countries/ territories, up from 57 countries.
2) Increasing the number of countries/regions whose passport holders qualify for Visa on Arrival (VOA) from 19 to 31.
3) Introducing a new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for long-term travel, “digital nomads,” wishing to stay and engage in long-distance work or to participate in certain cultural activities for a stay of up to 180 days per visit on a multiple-entry basis with the visa valid for five years. Cultural activities include Muay Thai and martial arts, cooking, studying, practising sports, medical treatment, training, seminars art exhibitions and music.
Graphics from the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand (28 May 2024)
4) Improving the non-immigration visa to facilitate the travel of international students and those nearing graduation in Thailand. It allows them to seek employment by extending their stay for one year after graduation.
5) Establishing a “Visa Policy Committee” to develop Thailand’s entry processes and improve the efficiency of immigration procedures.
Three medium-term measures
1) Grouping and streamlining non-immigrant visa types.
2) Lowering health insurance requirements and expanding the list of countries eligible for long-term non-immigrant visa applications.
3) Implementing the e-Visa system at all embassies and consulates worldwide by December 2024.
One long-term measure
The introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisationn (ETA) system, will be implemented in line with the e-Visa system at international airports in the country by June 2025.
DUBAI, 31 May 2024: Emirates and Viva Aerobus have signed an interline agreement to enhance connectivity for passengers travelling to Mexico.
The partnership will boost access to destinations in Mexico, allowing Emirates customers to travel from Mexico City to 21 domestic cities while enjoying the convenience of a single baggage policy utilising both airlines on a single ticket.
The interline agreement also unlocks more international routes for Emirates customers, providing 20 convenient flight options connecting six points in Mexico and some popular American cities.
Interline tickets are now on sale for travel, effective immediately. Travel itineraries can be booked on emirates.com, the Emirates app, and preferred travel agencies.
Travellers booked on flights from Dubai to Mexico City can choose to fly to 21 additional domestic destinations, such as Acapulco, Cancun, Guadalajara and Monterrey, to name a few. The interline network also includes direct flights from US points, including Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Orlando and Miami, to select Mexican destinations, Additionally, travellers from Mexico City can conveniently fly direct to Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, New York JFK or San Antonio.
Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Adnan Kazim said: “We are pleased to activate an interline partnership with Viva Aerobus to deepen our reach into Mexico, beyond Mexico City. Emirates customers can also fly directly between select US points and cities in Mexico. This new offering is in line with our Fly Better promise and convenience that our customers can feel when flying with us, and we look forward to further developing the partnership in the future to elevate its benefits to our customers.”
Emirates’ customers can enjoy a premium travel experience. It offers elevated comfort, world-class dining, in-flight entertainment, and other thoughtful amenities onboard its wide-body aircraft, which include the Boeing 777 and the coveted flagship double-decker A380.
The Dubai-Mexico City route is served by the Boeing 777 aircraft in a two-class configuration. Customers with itineraries that include interline flights from select US points can look forward to superior comfort levels and unique features of its A380 service on flights from Dubai to Los Angeles and Houston before connecting to Viva Aerobus for flights to their final destinations in Mexico. Viva Aerobus’ fleet comprises 83 Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft with an average age of 5.45 years, making it the most modern fleet in Mexico and the 5th youngest in all of Latin America.
Mexico is an important part of the Emirates network, which spans almost 140 destinations. Emirates launched its services to Mexico City in 2019, and the airline currently provides daily flights to the Mexican capital via Barcelona, utilising the Boeing 777-200LR.
Emirates currently has commercial cooperation agreements with 161 interline, codeshare and intermodal partners. For more information on Emirates and to make bookings visit www.emirates.com.
BANGKOK, 31 May 2024: Discover a world of destinations, and you could also win a five-night Getaway plus USD1,500 spending cash at any Dusit Hotel worldwide. In addition, there are 16 more getaway prizes up for grabs.
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗲:
• Follow @dusit.hotels on Instagram and access the Dusit AR filter on your mobile here: https://bit.ly/44E6gU3
• Discover our 13 destination random filters. Keep playing until you find your dream destination.
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• Share which Dusit Hotel you want to visit and why using #DusitEscape, and tag @Dusit.Hotels in your caption. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙 𝘧𝘪𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.
𝗣𝗿𝗶𝘇𝗲𝘀 (𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗹𝘂𝗰𝗸𝘆 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝘄):
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– Thailand hotels: Three prizes.
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Entries must be presented by 15 July, and winners will be announced on 30 July 2024
SINGAPORE, 31 May 2024: Princess Cruises will extend the number of itineraries in Japan during the 2025-26 season, and bookings are already open.
The Japan-built Diamond Princess will feature an expanded Japan season showcasing the region’s breathtaking Mount Fuji, Kyoto before continuing to Singapore and Southeast Asia.
With a new fall 2025 season, Princess is offering 11 new voyages ranging in length from nine to 22 days. The voyages visit 25 destinations throughout the Land of the Rising Sun and make stops in Korea and Taiwan.
Highlights of the Japan season
13-day Circle Japan Fall Foliage sailing occurs during the beautiful autumn leaves season.
Nine-day Circle Japan voyage, a circumnavigation of the country with stops at Nagasaki, Akita and Sakaiminato.
Nine-day Southern Islands departures to the southernmost part of Japan and the lush islands of Okinawa and Ishigaki.
10-day Kyushu & Korea cruise, which sails these large islands of Japan, including visits to Hiroshima, Osaka (for Kyoto) and Shimizu (for Mount Fuji)
Southeast Asia season
Following her extended Japan season, Diamond Princess will sail to Singapore on a 12-day Southeast Asia & Japan cruise featuring Taipei (Keelung) and Hong Kong to kick off three roundtrip Singapore sailings from December 2025 to February 2026.
They include:
14-day Malaysia, Thailand & Vietnam cruise includes calls to Phuket, Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) and Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
A 16-day departure from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam includes a call to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a gateway to Hanoi.
A 14-day Southeast Asia & Japan sailing from Singapore back to Tokyo (Yokohama) with late-night stays in Hong Kong and Shimizu (for Mount Fuji) closes the season.
Diamond Princess Built in Japan, the 2,670-guest Diamond Princess offers an experience tailored to the region. Guests enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine at Kai Sushi, sip Japanese-inspired cocktails created by mixologist Rob Floyd, and enjoy folkloric shows, regional entertainment, and Japanese holiday celebrations.
BANGKOK, 31 May 2024: New data from Airbnb reveals that between 2022 and 2023, Bookings in Thailand by Indian guests on Airbnb increased more than 60% between 2022 and 2023*.
There was also a noticeable surge of interest during the recent Holi and Easter long weekends when Indian guests’ searches for stays in Thailand increased by more than 200 %.**
Photo credit: Airbnb.
According to provisional data from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports, India is the fifth largest source market for Thailand holiday bookings. Most of the credit goes to the government’s visa-free policy, which will continue until at least 11 November 2024 under the present concession. Based on the latest Thai Cabinet resolution announced earlier this week, it will almost certainly become a permanent concession beyond the November end date.
This surge in travel interest on Airbnb may be driven by India’s changing demographics and a new, more travel-inclined younger generation. Gen Z and Millennial Indian guests accounted for 80% of bookings in 2023*.
India has the highest population of Gen Zs and Millennials in the world, so it’s not surprising that youth is also at the heart of Airbnb’s traction in India.
Thailand’s city and beach destinations made up the top five most booked destinations by Indian guests on Airbnb:***
Bangkok
Phuket
Chiang Mai
Krabi
Samui
The desire for beach and city getaways is also seen in stays chosen by Indian guests – the most booked Airbnb Categories in Thailand by Indian guests were Pool, Tropical, Near a beach, Near a national park and Iconic city.***
Based on Airbnb bookings by Indian guests, duo and solo travellers were the largest traveller types, while small groups (three to five people) and medium-sized groups (plus five) were the fastest growing, increasing by approximately 67% and 68% year-on-year, respectively* in 2023.
“Travellers from India on Airbnb continue to show their love for Thailand with a growing interest in exploring destinations nationwide. In addition to some of Thailand’s top destinations, we see Indian guests also exploring lesser-known areas and supporting a more inclusive tourism in Thailand that spreads economic opportunities to more people in more places, not just big cities,” said Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan Amanpreet Bajaj.
“The Thai government’s extension of the visa waiver for citizens of both countries will further support and drive inbound tourism. There is a strong appetite for Thailand amongst Indian travellers, and we will continue to support Thailand’s tourism initiatives and help to make Thailand top of mind amongst Indian travellers.”
*Based on India users’ booking data for 2023 vs 2022, Gen Z guests are age 18 to 29, and Millenial guests are age 30 to 39.
**Based on India users’ search data for the Holi and Easter long weekend with check-in dates between 23 March and 31 March 2024, compared with last year’s period.
SHANGHAI, 31 May 2024: Tourism Malaysia led a delegation to ITB China 2024, hosted in Shanghai from 27 to 29 May, to promote Malaysia as a preferred tourist destination to tourism players in China.
The Malaysian delegation was headed by Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, together with Tourism Malaysia’s Director General Manoharan Periasamy.
The Tourism Malaysia delegation at the 4th edition of ITB China 2024 was strengthened by tourism partners from Penang Global Tourism and other states such as Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang and Perak, totalling 37 organisations. They comprised 15 hotels and resorts, eight tour operators, five state tourism agencies, two tourism associations, two product owners and one airline.
Commenting on the participation, Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said, “Malaysia’s participation at ITB China for this year marks our commitment and sincerity to strengthen cooperation and deepen tourism and cultural exchanges through people-to-people exchanges, especially in the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia.”
Penang Global Tourism CEO Ooi Chok Yan commented on Penang’s presence at the show: “China is one of Penang’s most important markets, and it has always been one of the top three countries in Penang. It is crucial to keep the publicity momentum going to draw more travellers to Penang Island.”
China remains one of the top market sources for Malaysia and contributed 1,474,114 arrivals to the country last year compared to 212,603 Chinese tourists in 2022.
Malaysia is currently targeting to receive 27.3 million international tourist arrivals with MYR102.7 billion in tourism receipts, with 5 million arrivals targeted to be from the Chinese market.
Tourism Malaysia continues to intensify promotions alongside travel agents and airlines through its overseas offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. China-based airlines such as Air China, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines and Xiamen Air have resumed services to Malaysia, almost reaching pre-Covid-pandemic levels. There are currently 368 flights per week between China and Malaysia.
Singapore, 31 May 2024: The Halal In Travel Awards 2024, a celebration held at the Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium, marked the culmination of the 4th Halal In Travel Global Summit. This annual event acknowledges the remarkable achievements and innovations in the Muslim-friendly travel sector. It underscores the global impact of destinations, service providers, and marketing campaigns that have exhibited exceptional dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the Muslim travel market.
Recognising Excellence Across Four Key Categories
The awards honoured 14 outstanding recipients across four distinct categories, each representing excellence in Muslim-friendly tourism.
Photo credit: Royal Brunei. Muslim-Friendly Airline of The Year: Royal Brunei Airlines.
Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) Awards
These awards celebrate destinations ranked high in the GMTI 2024, having gone above and beyond to create a welcoming and accommodating environment for Muslim travellers. The 2024 honorees are:
Top Muslim-friendly Destination of The Year: Malaysia – Renowned for its rich cultural heritage and inclusive tourism infrastructure, Malaysia offers Muslim visitors a seamless and enriching travel experience.
Top Muslim-friendly Destination of The Year: Indonesia – Indonesia’s diverse cultural landscape and robust halal tourism initiatives have positioned it as a top destination for Muslim travellers seeking both adventure and spirituality.
3rd Top Muslim-friendly Destination of The Year: Saudi Arabia – As the heart of Islamic heritage, Saudi Arabia remains a beacon for Muslim travellers, continually enhancing its offerings to ensure a fulfilling pilgrimage and travel experience.
Top Destination of The Year (non-OIC): Singapore – Singapore’s vibrant multicultural environment and commitment to halal-friendly amenities make it a prime destination for Muslim travellers worldwide.
Muslim-Friendly Service Provider Awards
Recognising the paramount importance of catering to the specific needs of the Muslim community, these awards celebrate establishments that have excelled in providing exceptional and tailor-made services for Muslim travellers. This year’s distinguished awardees include:
Muslim-Friendly Hotel of The Year: Fairmont Singapore – Renowned for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional halal-certified dining options, Fairmont Singapore sets the standard for Muslim-friendly hospitality. [Insert a quote from a representative of Fairmont Singapore expressing their gratitude for the recognition.]
Muslim-Friendly Beach Resort of The Year: Adin Beach Hotel – This exquisite resort offers a unique blend of relaxation and halal-friendly amenities, ensuring a memorable stay for Muslim guests.
Muslim-Friendly Convention & Exhibition Centre of The Year: Movenpick Hotel and Convention Center KLIA – With state-of-the-art facilities and a solid commitment to halal services, this convention centre is a leader in hosting international events for the Muslim community.
Muslim-Friendly Tour Operator of The Year: Taiwan Learning Trip – Known for its culturally immersive tours and halal-friendly services, Taiwan Learning Trip offers unparalleled travel experiences for Muslim tourists.
Muslim-Friendly Airline of The Year: Royal Brunei Airlines – Royal Brunei Airlines excels in providing top-notch services that cater specifically to the needs of Muslim travellers, ensuring a comfortable and respectful journey.
HalalTrip Travelers Choice Awards
These awards highlight destinations that offer enriching and authentic halal-friendly travel experiences, enhancing the overall journey for Muslim travellers:
Islamic Heritage Destination of The Year: Bukhara – Bukhara, with its profound historical and cultural significance, offers travellers an immersive experience into the heart of Islamic heritage.
Halal Travel Marketing Campaign of The Year: Andalusia – Turespana’s innovative marketing campaign for Andalucia has successfully highlighted its rich Islamic history and halal-friendly attractions, drawing Muslim travellers from around the globe.
Most Diverse Halal Dining City of The Year: Singapore – Known for its diverse culinary scene, Singapore offers an array of halal dining options, making it a gastronomic paradise for Muslim food enthusiasts.
Halal Travel Personalities of the Year
These awards honour individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting and enhancing halal travel, recognising their dedication and influence in the industry:
Halal Travel Influencer of The Year: Ikuto Hongu (@navito_halal) – Through engaging content and authentic experiences, Ikuto Hongu has become a trusted voice and influential figure in the halal travel community.
Halal Travel Tour Guide of The Year: Fayrouz Holliday-October – Known for her deep knowledge and passionate storytelling, Fayrouz Holliday-October provides exceptional guided tours highlighting various destinations’ rich Islamic heritage.
Halal Travel Scholar of The Year: Dr Mohamed Battour – Dr Battour’s scholarly contributions to the field of halal travel have provided valuable insights and advancements, influencing the industry’s growth and development.
CrescentRating & HalalTrip CEO Fazal Bahardeen commented: “The Halal In Travel Awards is not just about recognition, it’s about inspiring more destinations and service providers to cater to the needs of Muslim travellers. This year’s awardees are not just winners, they are pioneers, demonstrating a commitment to creating inclusive and innovative travel experiences for the global Muslim community. Their dedication not only enhances the travel experience for Muslim tourists but also sets a high standard for the industry. This begins a journey towards a more inclusive and diverse travel industry.”
About CrescentRating CrescentRating (Crescentrating Pte Ltd) is the leading Halal travel and tourism authority. The company uses insights, industry intelligence, lifestyle, behaviour, and research on the needs of Muslim travellers to deliver authoritative guidance on all aspects of halal travel to organisations across the globe. Founded in 2008, CrescentRating services are used by every tier of the tourism industry, from government bodies and tourism agencies to hospitality service providers, to serve the needs of the Muslim traveller better.
SINGAPORE, 31 May 2024: SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost airline, confirms it will launch twice weekly flights to its newest destination, Delhi, India, starting 2 July 2024.
SalamAir will operate twice-weekly flights from its home base of Muscat to Delhi on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Flights will use an Airbus A320 and take three hours and 10 minutes.
Flight OV727 departs Muscat at 0025 and arrives in Delhi at 0645. Flight OV748 departs Delhi at 0745 and arrives in Muscat at 0925.
Roundtrip fare is approximately OMR128.
Delhi, the capital of India, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and modern infrastructure. As a key economic and political hub, Delhi offers a unique blend of ancient monuments, such as the Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb, and contemporary attractions, including shopping malls, markets, and a thriving culinary scene.
“We are thrilled to add Delhi to our growing list of destinations in India,” said SalamAir acting CEO Captain Ahmed Al Shidhani. “Delhi is a city of great historical significance and economic vitality, making it an ideal addition to our network. We look forward to offering our passengers to and from the opportunity to explore this dynamic city, and we will remain committed to providing a high-quality travel experience at competitive prices.”
SalamAir fleet comprises seven 212-seat A321neo aircraft and six 180-seat A320s.
SINGAPORE, 31 May 2024: Vistara has confirmed in timetable updates it will increase flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Frankfurt and Paris ahead of the peak summer season for travel to Europe.
Photo credit: Vistara.
Delhi-Frankfurt
According to OAG timetable data, effective 19 June, the Indian airline will increase flights on the Delhi-Frankfurt route from six to daily flights using its Boeing Dreamliner 787-9.
Flight UK025 will depart Delhi at 1250 and arrive in Frankfurt at 1820. Flight UK026 will depart Frankfurt at 2020 and arrive in Delhi at 0755 (plus a day).
Delhi-Paris
On the Delhi-Paris route, the airline will increase flights from five to daily starting 18 June.
Flight UK021 will depart Delhi at 1405 and arrive in Paris (CDG) at 2010. Flight UK022 will depart Paris at 2225 and arrive in Delhi at 1005 (plus a day).
Mumbai-Frankfurt
On the Mumbai-Frankfurt route, the airline will increase flights from six to daily effective 17 June 2024
Flight UK027 will depart Mumbai at 1200 and arrive in Frankfurt at 1730. Flight UK028 will depart Frankfurt at 2020 and arrive in Mumbai at 0755 (plus a day).
Mumbai-Paris
Vistara will increase flights from five to daily on the Mumbai-Paris route effective 16 June.
Flight UK023 departs Mumbai at 1320 and arrives in Paris (CDG) at 1930. Flight UK024 departs Paris at 2130 and arrives in Mumbai at 0950 (plus a day).
All the flights to Europe use Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
Inflight entertainment: F1 and HBO shows
Meanwhile, Vistara became the first Indian airline to offer F1 content on its inflight entertainment systems, effective mid-May. The airline has enhanced its inflight entertainment (IFE) offerings by adding Formula 1 content and HBO shows. HBO® programming includes over 108 hours of content, featuring over 100 TV shows across various genres.
Vistara’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and Airbus A321neo offer advanced wireless connectivity powered by Panasonic Avionics, enabling seamless internet access on Wi-Fi-enabled devices.
