Be a NATAS world traveller

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March 13, 2026

SINGAPORE, 13 March 2026: Singapore’s largest travel fair is back, taking place from 27 to 29 March 2026 (Friday to Sunday) at Singapore Expo Halls 4 & 5.

The 63rd edition of the NATAS Travel Fair features over 70 travel exhibitors under one roof, representing travel agents and national tourism organisations (NTOs), airlines, cruise operators, hotels and resorts, banks, insurance and other travel-related partners.

National tourism organisations returning to the fair are Brunei Tourism, Sarawak Tourism Board, Taiwan Tourism Administration, and Wonderful Indonesia. Joining for the first time are Mie, Japan, and Cuba’s Ministry of Tourism.

Fair visitors can also look forward to an impressive line-up of stage performances across the three-day fair. Running from 1300 to 1830 on Friday, and 1030 to 1830 on Saturday and Sunday, the back-to-back programme features insightful destination talks and worldwide cultural performances. Continuing its support for Extra·Ordinary People since 2024, NATAS will once again welcome performers from Extra·Ordinary People to the stage daily to showcase their musical and vocal performances.

“We are excited to welcome visitors to another NATAS Travel Fair and invite everyone to become a world traveller with NATAS. With over 40 travel agents ready to advise on holiday planning, the NATAS Travel Fair serves as a one-stop platform for all travel needs. We look forward to connecting with visitors, whether they are seeking ideas for their next holiday destination or answers to their travel queries. The experts in the field are ready to share their first-hand insights,” said NATAS President Steven Ler.

Etiqa Insurance Singapore returns as the Official Travel Insurer for the NATAS Travel Fair 2026, reaffirming its commitment to helping travellers explore the world with confidence. Its comprehensive travel insurance plans cover medical expenses, personal accidents, flight delays and trip cancellations, providing reliable protection throughout every journey. Travellers attending the fair will have access to exclusive promotional offers from Etiqa. Etiqa Insurance Singapore will be located at Booth 4H49 (Hall 4).

Etiqa Insurance Singapore, Acting CEO Claudia Soh commented: “Travel plans do not always go exactly as expected. From flight changes to medical emergencies overseas, unexpected situations can arise. As the Official Travel Insurer for the NATAS Travel Fair, we are committed to making comprehensive and reliable protection easily accessible so that travellers can explore the world with confidence and peace of mind.”

After a successful run as the Official Airline Partner for NATAS Holidays in August 2025, Malaysia Airlines returns as the Official Airline Partner for NATAS Travel 2026. Travellers can look forward to experiencing the airline’s signature Malaysian Hospitality and seamless connections to destinations across the globe.

Visitors at the Malaysia Airlines booth (4H25 – Hall 4) will also have the opportunity to win exclusive prizes, including limited-edition Malaysia Airlines x Manchester United merchandise and a pair of economy-class return flight tickets to Seoul or Japan.

Malaysia Aviation Group, Chief Executive Officer of Airline Business Bryan Foong said: “We are pleased to return as the Official Airline Partner for NATAS Travel 2026, a platform that continues to inspire travellers to explore the world with confidence. As travellers increasingly seek more meaningful and well-curated experiences, Malaysia Airlines remains focused on delivering seamless connectivity and our signature Malaysian Hospitality that supports every stage of the journey. NATAS provides an important opportunity for us to engage travellers at the very start of their travel planning, share inspiration, and enable them to turn their aspirations into journeys that are effortless, memorable, and distinctly Malaysian — from planning to touchdown and beyond.”

The NATAS Lucky Dip returns, with visitors standing a chance to win prizes ranging from everyday essentials and food & beverages to roaming vouchers and airline tickets. Visitors need to spend a minimum of SGD500 at the NATAS Travel Fair and complete a survey to be eligible to participate. Eligible participants can visit the NATAS survey counter at Hall 5.

NATAS Travel Fair acknowledges the support of Singapore Airlines (strategic airline partner), Travel Guide (media partner) and Yoowifi (preferred roaming partner).

Visit https://www.natastravelfair.travel/ for more information about the travel fair. NATAS Travel 2026 will be held from 27 to 29 March 2026, from 1000 to 2130 daily. Admission is free.

(Source: NATAS)

Club Med Borneo opens bookings

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Newsdesk

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March 13, 2026

SINGAPORE, 13 March 2026: Club Med confirms reservations for the Club Med Borneo, Malaysia, will officially open on 24 March.

Located on the shores of Kuala Penyu, a 90-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, the resort will welcome its first guests this November.

As Club Med’s second Malaysian property following Club Med Cherating, this new destination is poised to be the brand’s first large-scale, sustainably built BREEAM-certified beach resort in Asia Pacific.

Club Med Borneo is also easily accessible as a drive-to destination from Brunei International Airport (approximately a four-hour car transfer).

Club Med President and CEO Stephane Maquaire highlighted: “The opening of Club Med Borneo represents a significant milestone in our global expansion strategy. This is our second resort in Malaysia and is nestled in a destination that continues to spark the imagination and curiosity of travellers across time and around the globe.”

The resort features 400 rooms, including 39 Collection Suites that offer enhanced privacy and elevated aesthetics for the discerning travellers.

The Mutiara Exclusive Collection space: For a more secluded stay, this dedicated oasis offers a “resort within a resort” experience. Guests enjoy a private lounge, an exclusive swimming pool, and the Bayu Bar, an intimate setting designed for quiet, upscale sophistication.

F&B experiences

The Alam: The main buffet restaurant featuring four distinct dining atmospheres, serving a global tapestry of international and local flavours.

The Laut: An upscale gourmet destination paired with its own refined bar.

The Pasir: The resort’s social heart, where expert mixologists craft tropical cocktails.

Family paradise: Club Med’s signature, comprehensive Kids’ Club facilities cater to ages 4 months to 17 years.

(Source: Club Med)

Gulf crisis: Between a rock and a hard place

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Andrew Wood

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March 13, 2026

BANGKOK, 13 March 2026: The sudden escalation of military confrontation involving the US, Israel and Iran has sent shockwaves far beyond the Middle East.

For Southeast Asia and Thailand, the conflict may be geographically distant. Yet, its economic consequences could arrive quickly through energy prices, aviation routes, shipping lane disruptions and a dramatic fall in tourism flows.

*Southeast Asia is feeling the impact of rising global tensions.*

On Wednesday, a Thai-flagged bulk carrier, Mayuree Naree, was attacked by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire. News channels reported that the Omani navy rescued 23 Thai crew members. The vessel came under attack when departing from the UAE through the Strait of Hormuz.

As one of the world’s most visited destinations and a major aviation hub linking Europe, the Middle East and Asia, any disruption in global travel patterns or fuel markets is quickly felt across Thailand’s tourism economy. Airlines, airports, hotels and tour operators across the region are already watching developments closely.

Global financial markets reacted swiftly as tensions escalated. Equity markets across the US, Europe and Asia weakened, energy prices climbed sharply, and investors moved toward traditional safe-haven assets such as gold and the US dollar. The initial reaction illustrates how rapidly geopolitical tensions in the Middle East can ripple through global financial systems.

During geopolitical shocks, investors often move toward safe-haven currencies and assets, strengthening the US dollar and the Swiss franc while increasing volatility across emerging market currencies.

Key energy and commodity prices

*Energy and safe-haven assets rise as geopolitical tensions push oil higher and investors seek stability.*

Energy markets have reacted particularly quickly to the current crisis. Traders fear potential disruption to Gulf shipping routes and the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of global oil supply normally passes.

Crude prices spike amid fears of supply disruption in the Gulf

At the height of the market panic, Brent crude surged close to USD120 per barrel before easing again as governments discussed emergency oil reserve releases and diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis. Some analysts warn that if shipping through the Straits of Hormuz were fully disrupted, crude prices could climb toward USD150 per barrel.

*Oil surges as Middle East tensions trigger a global energy shock.*

There are three possible outcomes from the crisis, each with different implications for Southeast Asia’s tourism-dependent economies.

1. The first possible outcome is what might be called the controlled conflict

Under this scenario, the confrontation remains intense but limited. Iran continues retaliatory missile strikes and cyber activity while the US and Israel avoid expanding the conflict into a broader regional war. Diplomatic channels remain open behind the scenes, and both sides exercise restraint in targeting critical infrastructure or commercial shipping routes.

For Southeast Asia, this would mean turbulence but manageable disruption. Airlines flying between Europe and Asia could temporarily avoid parts of Middle Eastern airspace, adding flight time and increasing fuel costs. Some flights might be diverted northward across Central Asia or take longer southern routes, depending on security conditions.

Even under this limited scenario, Thailand’s tourism sector could feel the strain. If flight interruptions and higher airfares discourage some long-haul travellers, the country could face a tourism revenue hit of roughly THB45 billion over several months.

That figure is substantial. Based on average international visitor spending levels, this would amount to the loss of roughly 900,000 to 1,000,000 international visitors to Thailand. To place this in context, Thailand’s tourism economy is valued at about THB2.7 trillion annually, with approximately THB1.54 trillion generated by international travellers and around THB1.17 trillion from domestic tourism. A THB45 billion decline would therefore represent about 1.7% of the country’s total tourism economy, or just under 3% of international tourism revenue.

2. The second possible outcome could be described as an expanding Middle East war

This scenario concerns global markets far more. If the conflict spreads beyond Iran and Israel and begins drawing in regional allies or proxy forces, the Middle East could quickly become a much wider battlefield.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most critical maritime chokepoints in the world, carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil supply. Any sustained disruption would push energy prices sharply higher and ripple through the global economy.

For Southeast Asia, the consequences would be immediate. Countries across the region depend heavily on imported energy, meaning higher oil prices would translate directly into rising transport costs, airline fuel bills and inflationary pressure.

Shipping routes are also under scrutiny. Some analysts suggest tanker movements could be rerouted further south through the Arabian Sea and into the Red Sea corridor if Gulf shipping becomes too risky. Although longer, this route could provide a temporary alternative. There has also been discussion of naval escort arrangements involving regional partners, including Pakistan, as governments consider how best to protect maritime trade and ensure energy supplies continue to flow.

For export-driven economies such as Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia, any disruption to global shipping or fuel supply would inevitably ripple through supply chains, manufacturing costs and trade flows.

3. The third possible outcome could become what might be called an Iranian turning point

In this scenario, the conflict triggers deeper political consequences inside Iran itself. The recent strikes could weaken the country’s leadership structure or provoke domestic instability, potentially opening a period of internal political turbulence.

Alternatively, the Iranian government might emerge hardened and more determined, strengthening its strategic posture and accelerating its military ambitions. Either direction could reshape the geopolitical balance of the Middle East and introduce longer-term volatility into global energy markets.

Thailand tourism exposure by source markets

Thailand’s tourism exposure also varies widely by source markets. Short-haul regional visitors represent a large share of arrivals, but long-haul travellers from Europe, Australia and the Middle East typically stay longer and spend more per trip. These travellers are also the most likely to be affected by aviation disruptions or extended flight routes due to Middle Eastern airspace tensions.

Thailand Tourism Exposure by Source Markets: China remains Thailand’s largest market, though Europe and India continue to grow.

Long-haul markets are particularly important for Thailand because these visitors typically stay longer and generate higher per-trip spending across hotels, dining, shopping and excursions.

For Thailand, the implications are clear. Tourism, aviation and trade are deeply connected to global stability. Higher fuel prices, longer flight routes and cautious travellers could all weigh on visitor numbers and industry confidence.

Yet Southeast Asia has demonstrated resilience during previous global shocks. Diversified tourism markets, strong regional connectivity and adaptable businesses have often helped the region absorb external crises and recover quickly.

About the author
Andrew J Wood is a British travel writer and hotel industry commentator based in Bangkok. A former general manager of several leading hotels in Thailand, he has spent more than three decades working in the Asian hospitality industry. He is a former Director of Skal International Bangkok and a long-standing observer of the tourism industry who writes regularly on travel, tourism development, and regional economic trends across Southeast Asia.

Latest updates on flights to the Gulf

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March 13, 2026

SINGAPORE, 13 March 2026: Due to ongoing unrest in the Middle East, KLM has decided to cancel all flights to Dubai through 28 March, the airline confirmed in a travel advisory issued earlier this week. KLM also suspended flights to Riyadh and Dammam, restoring them on Thursday, 12 March.

Passengers whose flights have been cancelled will be notified and can rebook their tickets free of charge or request a refund via My Trip. The airline says it continues to monitor the situation closely and remains in contact with the relevant authorities.

“KLM remains available for the repatriation of stranded travellers. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordinates this,” it explained.

Qatar special flights

Qatar Airways’ scheduled flight operations are still temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace. The airline says it will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe and full reopening of Qatari airspace.

However, after the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority confirmed limited operating corridors, Qatar Airways will operate the following flight schedule in the coming days to support passengers affected by the current disruption.

Flights departing from Doha (DOH):

13 March: Perth (PER), Seoul (ICN), Dhaka (DAC), Jeddah (JED), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Bangkok (BKK), Kochi (COK), Algiers (ALG), Miami (MIA), Istanbul (IST), Cairo (CAI), Amsterdam (AMS), London (LHR), Milan (MXP), Paris (CDG).

14 March: Riyadh (RUH), Muscat (MCT), Shanghai (PVG), Manila (MNL), Johannesburg (JNB), Dallas (DFW), Toronto (YYZ), Colombo (CMB), Cairo (CAI), Islamabad (ISB), Mumbai (BOM), London (LHR), Rome (FCO), Madrid (MAD), Frankfurt (FRA).

15 March: Istanbul (IST), Dhaka (DAC), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Bangkok (BKK), Delhi (DEL), Algiers (ALG), Melbourne (MEL), New York (JFK), Jeddah (JED), São Paulo (GRU), Madrid (MAD), Hong Kong (HKG), London (LHR), Casablanca (CMN), Paris (CDG).

16 March: Perth (PER), Muscat (MCT), Seoul (ICN), Bangkok (BKK), Beijing (PKX), Dhaka (DAC), Kochi (COK), Jakarta (CGK), Mumbai (BOM), Cairo (CAI), Miami (MIA), Colombo (CMB).

Flights departing to Doha (DOH):

13 March: Amsterdam (AMS), London (LHR), Milan (MXP), Paris (CDG).

14 March: Perth (PER), Seoul (ICN), Dhaka (DAC), Jeddah (JED), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Bangkok (BKK), Kochi (COK), Algiers (ALG), Miami (MIA), Istanbul (IST), Cairo (CAI), Johannesburg (JNB), London (LHR), Madrid (MAD), Frankfurt (FRA).

15 March: Riyadh (RUH), Muscat (MCT), Shanghai (PVG), Manila (MNL), Dallas (DFW), Toronto (YYZ), Colombo (CMB), Cairo (CAI), Islamabad (ISB), Mumbai (BOM), Rome (FCO), Madrid (MAD), London (LHR), Casablanca (CMN), Paris (CDG).

16 March: Istanbul (IST), Dhaka (DAC), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Bangkok (BKK), Delhi (DEL), Algeria (ALG), New York (JFK), Jeddah (JED), São Paulo (GRU), Hong Kong (HKG), Amsterdam (AMS), London (LHR), Frankfurt (FRA).

17 March: Perth (PER), Muscat (MCT), Seoul (ICN), Bangkok (BKK), Beijing (PKX), Dhaka (DAC), Kochi (COK), Jakarta (CGK), Mumbai (BOM), Cairo (CAI), Miami (MIA), Colombo (CMB).

(Sources: KLM and Qatar Airways)

Laguna Phuket plots a regenerative trail

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March 12, 2026

PHUKET, 12 March 2026: Laguna Phuket has announced a new 2.5-kilometre regenerative trail that will be the centrepiece of its landscape and amenities transformation, set to roll out in stages throughout 2026.

The trail spans an estate of 1,000 acres. It connects six resorts, designed to create a walkable experience that links landscaped parks, cultural spaces, wellbeing areas, and beachfront environments within Laguna Phuket’s integrated ecosystem.

The initiative aims to enhance the travellers’ experiences by connecting them with nature, while also supporting long-term environmental and community goals.

Along the journey, travellers can look forward to key attractions, including beautifully designed welcome areas, community parks featuring seasonal outdoor art installations, herb gardens, forest therapy spaces, and mindfulness zones by the beach. This cohesive experience is designed to evolve with the seasons, ensuring that each visit offers something unique and enriching.

Last November, Laguna Phuket launched a fleet of fully electric shuttle vehicles that connect its six resorts and key facilities throughout the integrated resort destination. These electric shuttles were introduced to enhance the guest experience by offering quieter, cleaner transportation.

(Source: Laguna Phuket)

Agoda presents Asia’s top river cruises

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March 12, 2026

SINGAPORE, 12 March 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda’s latest ranking reveals the top destinations where travellers can enjoy a river cruise in Asia, according to activities booked through Agoda between January and February 2026.

Experiences are at the heart of travel, and river cruises offer travellers a unique way to experience Asia’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and cuisines, from the bustling waterways of Bangkok to the serene vistas of Halong Bay.

Here are the most popular river cruise destinations in Asia, based on Agoda data.

1. Chao Phraya, Bangkok, Thailand

The Chao Phraya dinner cruise in Bangkok offers an unforgettable evening with a buffet that blends Thai and international cuisines. Guests can dine on deck while enjoying the stunning views along the riverbank. Cruises often feature live entertainment, such as a cabaret show with performers in traditional costumes, making them a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.

2. Halong Bay, Vietnam

Halong Bay’s breathtaking scenery is best experienced on a day tour where you can enjoy a sunset cruise and party with tea, cakes, fresh fruit, and music, along with access to a Jacuzzi pool. Tours can also include stops to explore caves, nearby islands, and kayaking activities.

3. Han River, Da Nang, Vietnam

A relaxing evening cruise on the Han River offers stunning views of Da Nang’s most famous attractions under the night sky. Passengers can admire the iconic Han River Bridge and Dragon Bridge while savouring fresh fruits, making it a serene escape from the city’s hustle.

4. Saigon River, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The Saigon River offers a variety of cruise options, from dinner cruises to daytime sightseeing cruises. Those seeking a romantic atmosphere can opt for a sunset luxury cruise with live music and cultural shows, while sightseeing cruises provide unique views of the city’s major landmarks.

5. Clarke Quay, Singapore

Cruising from Clarke Quay allows passengers to glide past iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion, taking in Singapore’s dazzling skyline. With hourly departures until 9 pm, the vibrant atmosphere of Singapore can be experienced from the water, with famous attractions such as Raffles’ Landing Site and the colourful shophouses at Boat Quay along the route.

6. Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong, SAR

Victoria Harbour offers panoramic sunset or night views of Hong Kong’s iconic skyline. Guests can indulge in snacks and drinks on a spacious open-air raft while enjoying the world-famous Symphony of Lights show. For those looking to commemorate the moment, professional photography services are available to capture breathtaking sights against the harbour backdrop.

Agoda Senior Vice President Supply, Andrew Smith, shared: “Experiences and activities bring a destination to life. With Agoda’s extensive selection of activities, travellers can personalise their adventures to fully immerse themselves in Asia’s awe-inspiring scenery and cultural heritage. Whether it’s a serene sunset cruise along the Saigon River or a city tour with unparalleled views of Singapore’s iconic skyline, Agoda helps travellers make every journey extraordinary.”

(Source: Agoda)

Thomas Cook opens sales outlet in Gwalior

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March 12, 2026

MUMBAI, 12 March 2026: Thomas Cook (India) Limited has expanded its network by opening its first outlet in Gwalior. This newly launched outlet expands the company’s presence to six outlets across Madhya Pradesh.

Located in the heart of Gwalior’s city centre, the new store offers convenient access for customers across the city and nearby towns of Morena, Dabra, Datia, Shivpuri, creating a strong catchment for Thomas Cook India’s holiday business.

Positioned close to key commercial hubs and residential neighbourhoods, the outlet is expected to attract strong footfall while offering seamless access to diverse customer segments, including multi-generational families, couples, Young India’s millennials & GenZ, and GenS (seniors).

The location will cater to a broad spectrum of travellers – from value-conscious holidaymakers to premium customers seeking curated travel experiences.

Additionally, Gwalior’s proximity to Delhi drives strong demand for popular domestic sectors such as Kashmir, Leh-Ladakh and other northern destinations, and the new outlet will effectively support this growing travel demand.

Thomas Cook’s Gwalior outlet offers end-to-end travel services, including international and domestic holidays (group tours, personalised holidays, cruises), as well as value-added services such as travel insurance. Additionally, Thomas Cook’s AI booking platform helps customers plan personalised vacations in real time by checking availability and making reservations in minutes.

Thomas Cook (India) Limited, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Rajeev Kale said: “Madhya Pradesh is an important source market for us at Thomas Cook India. The launch of our first outlet in Gwalior enables us to deepen our strategic presence in the state. Strategically chosen for its central location, this new outlet will enhance our ability to serve the growing and diverse needs of customers in the region for destinations within India and internationally.”

Gwalior/Madhya Pradesh Travel Trends

Top destinations

International: Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong.

Domestic and Indian subcontinent: Leh-Ladakh, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Andamans, North East, Kerala, Sri Lanka, Bhutan.

Holiday duration has increased from three days to five and eight days for short trips; from five days to 10 and 15 days for longer trips.

Unique preferences: Cruise vacations are emerging as a preferred format for consumers seeking experience-rich, all-inclusive holidays. Demand for experiential travel such as Northern Lights in Scandinavia, self-drive holidays, island stays (Maldives, Mauritius), and adventure travel to Ladakh and the North-East.

Pilgrimage/Spiritual Tourism in demand: Char Dham, Ayodhya-Prayagraj, aerial darshans to Kailash Mansarovar

Emergence of fresh new destinations: Georgia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, the Philippines and Morocco

Top traveller segments: Multi-generational families, couples, Young India’s millennials & GenZ, GenS (seniors)

Thomas Cook (India) Limited, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Rajeev Kale said: “Madhya Pradesh is an important source market for us at Thomas Cook India. The launch of our first outlet in Gwalior enables us to deepen our presence in the state. Strategically chosen for its central location, this new outlet will enhance our ability to serve the growing and diverse needs of customers in the region for destinations within India and internationally.”

Contact Details

Thomas Cook (India) Limited

1st Floor, Ananddeep Building

Near Airtel Office, Main Road

City Centre, Gwalior – 474011

Contact no: 0751 4613555 / 4602777

(Source: Thomas Cook India Limited)

SriLanka returns to Riyadh and Dubai

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March 12, 2026

COLOMBO, 12 March 2026: SriLankan Airlines resumed its daily flights to Riyadh on 9 March and Dubai on 10 March, while continuing to closely monitor the situation in the Middle East.

SriLankan Airlines stated they are continuing to “closely monitor the situation in the Middle East” and will prioritise passenger and crew safety. Future schedules may still be subject to change based on regional stability.

Other UL Middle East Routes: Earlier in March, other routes (including Dammam, Doha, and Kuwait) also faced cancellations. If you are travelling to these cities, it is recommended to verify the current status of those specific flights.

Booking and Status: You can check real-time flight status on the SriL a nkan Airlines official website or via their 24-hour contact centre at +94 11 777 1979

The airline’s contact details: 1979 (within Sri Lanka); +94 11 777 1979 (international); WhatsApp +94 74 444 1979 (chat only); or your travel agent.

The following UL flights are operating

UL265: Colombo–Riyadh 1815

UL266: Riyadh–Colombo 2235

UL231: Colombo–Dubai 1240

UL232: Dubai–Colombo 1700

Current Status: Dubai Airports

Dubai has not “fully” reopened to its normal, pre-conflict capacity. While both Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum (DWC) airports are open and flights are operating, they are currently operating at restricted capacity and with limited schedules.

The situation is currently in a “phased reopening” stage following the recent regional tensions and airspace closures. Here is the breakdown of what that means for you:

Limited Flights: Airlines such as Emirates and flydubai are gradually restoring their networks, but many routes remain on reduced frequencies. As of yesterday, Emirates was running about 60% of its usual global network.
Restricted Airspace: UAE airspace is not yet fully open. Flights are currently being routed through “restricted corridors” via Saudi Arabian and Omani airspace, which can lead to longer flight times and technical delays.
Strict Passenger Rules: Authorities are advising travellers not to go to the airport unless they have a confirmed booking and have received direct confirmation from their airline that the flight is still scheduled.
Transit Restrictions: If you are transiting through Dubai, you may board your first flight only if your connecting flight out of Dubai is confirmed to operate.

The “partial” status reflects ongoing monitoring of the security situation in the Middle East. While SriLankan Airlines has resumed its daily service to Dubai (UL231/UL232), these flights are subject to last-minute changes depending on safety assessments.

(Source: Sri Lankan and additional reporting)

Taiwan showcase at NATAS Travel Fair 2026

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Newsdesk

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March 12, 2026

SINGAPORE, 12 March 2026: Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) will participate in the upcoming NATAS Travel Fair from 27 to 29 March 2026, with an enhanced Taiwan Pavilion that underscores the destination’s strong tourism ties with Singapore.

The participation comes amid a sustained recovery between Singapore and Taiwan, reflecting Singapore’s continued position as one of Taiwan’s key inbound visitor markets in Asia.

*Photo credit: Taiwan Tourism Administration.*

Tourism flows between Singapore and Taiwan remain strong and consistent. According to TTA, Taiwan welcomed around 1.35 million visitors from Singapore between 2023 and 2025, reaffirming Singapore as a high-value source market for Taiwan.

The sustained volume of visitors highlights continued outbound interest among Singapore travellers, supported by Taiwan’s diverse travel content and convenient accessibility.

This momentum is supported by strong air connectivity with wide flight options across multiple Taiwanese gateways, positioning Taiwan as an accessible and convenient short-haul destination for Singapore travellers seeking food, culture, nature and seasonal experiences.

Taiwan’s participation in NATAS Travel Fair 2026 is a commitment to strengthening bilateral tourism exchanges and engaging directly with both consumers and trade partners in Singapore.

A refreshed Taiwan Pavilion at NATAS will present “Taiwan 100 Ways” and “Taiwan, Always On” creative concepts.

A key expression of these “100 Ways” is the “Taiwan, Always On” experience. As an always-on destination, “Taiwan is safe to explore 24 hours a day, seven days a week, across all four seasons.”

Pavilion highlights

FOCASA Circus Performance: Taiwan’s first professional contemporary circus company will present a dynamic performance inspired by the island’s rhythm from dawn to late night, featuring swinging ladders and juggling.

Experience the Creative Soul of Taiwan: Visitors can discover their own “Taiwan Way” through interactive cultural workshops, including Indigenous Costume Bookmark Weaving, Sustainable Paper Art and Mosaic Coaster DIY – immersive experiences that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainable living.

Complementing the consumer-facing showcase at NATAS, TTA will host the Taiwan Tourism Workshop on 30 March 2026. The workshop will bring together Taiwanese tourism stakeholders and Singapore’s travel trade to exchange market insights, explore product development opportunities, and strengthen industry collaboration.

The workshop will feature a Taiwanese delegation of nearly 30 exhibitors – including tourism boards, hotels, and travel agencies. They will engage directly with Singapore’s travel trade to support the development of new itineraries and packages tailored to Singapore travellers.

Taiwan’s participation in NATAS Travel Fair and the organisation of the Taiwan Tourism Workshop reflect a broader strategy to sustain momentum in Singapore–Taiwan travel and support continued growth in visitor arrivals.

By presenting both consumer-facing and trade-focused initiatives under a cohesive narrative, the upcoming activities aim to reinforce Taiwan’s presence in the Singapore market while deepening engagement across the travel ecosystem — from travellers and media to trade partners.

(Source: TTA)

Air India hikes fuel surcharges

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Newsdesk

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March 12, 2026

GURUGRAM, India, 12 March 2026: Air India Group is increasing its fuel surcharges on domestic and international routes, necessitated by the steep rise in jet fuel prices driven by the war in the Middle East.

Since early March, aviation turbine fuel (ATF), which accounts for nearly 40% of an airline’s operating costs, has seen a significant price increase due to supply disruptions in the Persian Gulf.

In India, this pressure is amplified by high excise duty and VAT on ATF in major metro cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, thereby increasing costs and placing substantial strain on airline operating economics.

The new fuel surcharges are being implemented in three phases, covering travel on all flights, including those operated by Air India Express*.

Phase 1 (for all new bookings made from 0001 India Standard Time on 12 March 2026)

Phase 2 (for all new bookings made from 0001 India Standard Time on 18 March 2026)

Phase 3 will apply to and from Far East markets, namely Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea, pending a future announcement.

Tickets issued before the above times will not incur the new surcharge unless customers request date or itinerary changes that require a fare recalculation.

Air India says in its statement that it “regrets the need to increase fuel surcharges in this manner but emphasises that factors outside its control necessitate it.”

*Air India Express currently does not levy fuel surcharges on any of its flights.

Air India adds flights to and from West Asia

Meanwhile, Air India and Air India Express together operated 58 scheduled and non-scheduled flights to and from the West Asia region on 11 March.

The two carriers continued to operate their respective scheduled services to and from Jeddah and Muscat on 11 March, operating eight flights to and from Jeddah, and Air India Express operating 14 scheduled flights to and from Muscat.

Air India operated one round-trip each from Delhi and Mumbai to Jeddah, and Air India Express flew one round-trip each from Hyderabad and Kozhikode to Jeddah.

Air India Express flew its scheduled services to Muscat, including one round-trip each from Delhi, Mumbai, Kannur, Thiruvananthapuram and Tiruchirappalli, and two round-trips from Kochi.

Additional ad-hoc flights

In addition to the scheduled services, Air India and Air India Express operated 36 ad-hoc non-scheduled flights to and from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

All Air India flights to and from North America, Europe, Australia, and other regions continue to operate per schedule, with 78 additional flights to and from Europe, the US, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives through 18 March 2026.

(Source: Air India)

Be a NATAS world traveller

Club Med Borneo opens bookings

Gulf crisis: Between a rock and a hard place

Latest updates on flights to the Gulf

Laguna Phuket plots a regenerative trail

Agoda presents Asia’s top river cruises

Thomas Cook opens sales outlet in Gwalior

SriLanka returns to Riyadh and Dubai

Current Status: Dubai Airports

Taiwan showcase at NATAS Travel Fair 2026

Air India hikes fuel surcharges

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