HONG KONG, 17 April 2025: Cathay Pacific will offer 100% seatback inflight entertainment and 100% high-speed inflight connectivity across its fleet*, effective this August.
Customers travelling on Cathay Pacific flights will enjoy the airline’s state-of-the-art IFE system and high-speed Wi-Fi in every cabin on every route.
Photo credit: Cathay Group.
Cathay Pacific General Manager Customer Experience Design Guillaume Vivet said: “This significant milestone reflects Cathay Pacific’s long-standing commitment to and leadership in innovation and customer-centric design. We understand the importance our customers place on having access to top-notch entertainment and reliable connectivity when they travel. Whether for business or leisure, our customers will soon have access to award-winning entertainment and unparalleled connectivity onboard all of our flights, making their journeys as memorable as their destinations.”
Since introducing seatback IFE in 1992, Cathay Pacific has invested in inflight digital innovations to enhance the customer experience. The airline’s commitment to excellence was further solidified this year when it introduced 4K HDR, offering 4K ultra-high-definition screens and a broader colour range inflight to create a more immersive, enjoyable and intuitive viewing experience.
Cathay Pacific customers can enjoy a carefully curated IFE library with exclusive branded content. Furthermore, those travelling in First or Business class and Cathay Diamond members can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi services on Cathay Pacific’s flights.
* Complimentary Wi-Fi in first or business class and for Cathay Diamond members
SINGAPORE, 17 April 2025: Ethiopian Airlines confirms it will launch a new passenger flight service to Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, effective 1 June 2025.
The airline has scheduled four weekly flights on the Addis Ababa – Sharjah route using a 160-seat Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
Photo credit: Ethiopian.
Flight schedule
ET 622 will depart Addis Ababa (ADD) at 2205 every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday and arrive in Sharjah (SHJ) at 0325. ET 623 will depart Sharjah (SHJ) at 0425 every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday and arrive in Addis Ababa (ADD) at 0745.
Regarding the launch of the new service, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew stated: “We are excited to expand our passenger flight network in the UAE with the addition of Sharjah, a key economic hub in the United Arab Emirates. This new service complements our existing cargo operations and strengthens our connectivity to the Middle East. With enhanced travel options, our customers can now explore the UAE’s rich cultural heritage and dynamic business landscape.”
Ethiopian Airlines operates over 100 weekly passenger and cargo flights to more than 17 destinations across the Middle East. The airline’s presence in the region dates back to 1979 when it launched flights to Dubai, marking nearly five decades of service to the United Arab Emirates.
The programmes will strengthen the digital capabilities of small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMEs) and STB staff. Building on the success of one of the world’s first comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) training programmes for tourism SMEs, which concluded in Sarawak in November 2024, they are taking place this week in Miri and Kuching.
“PATA’s commitment to authoritative capacity building, particularly in AI, is rooted in our international perspective,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “Governments partnering with PATA gain access to a global network and a proven track record. Sarawak Tourism Board’s strategic investment demonstrates how this collaboration translates to tangible impact, empowering their stakeholders to lead the future of tourism, not just within their region, but within the international arena.”
The first programme expands upon the “AI-Driven Transformation: Empowering Sarawak’s Tourism SMEs” training in Kuching last year. This time, the training will be hosted in Miri, a vibrant coastal city and key tourism hub in the northern part of the state serving as a gateway to the twin UNESCO sites, Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park. This introductory-level AI training equips local tourism businesses with the foundational knowledge required to embrace AI technologies and drive digital transformation.
“The Sarawak Tourism Board, in collaboration with PATA, in this meaningful and cutting-edge AI training program is timely,” said STB CEO Madam Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor. “This partnership equips our stakeholders with the essential knowledge, new ideas, and tools needed to thrive in the future of tourism. PATA’s ability to provide expertise validates their crucial role in capacity building on the international stage, and we are proud to be a part of this transformative and meaningful initiative.”
Following the Miri training, PATA will head to Kuching to deliver “Understanding OTAs, Taking Ownership”, a session designed for tourism SMEs who participated in the 2024 AI training. This session will guide businesses on effectively leveraging Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) to improve visibility, optimise content, and refine pricing strategies. As OTAs play an increasingly dominant role in global tourism distribution, understanding their structures, ranking algorithms, and marketing tools is essential for SMEs to enhance competitiveness and drive bookings.
PATA will also conduct “AI Essentials for Destination Management: Unlocking the Future of Tourism”, a training for STB staff covering AI’s role in destination management. The session will explore AI applications in marketing, data analytics, visitor engagement, and operational efficiency. As destinations worldwide navigate rapid technological advancements, investing in AI knowledge and digital skills is essential for long-term resilience. This training reflects PATA’s commitment to supporting its members, such as STB, in adopting innovative solutions that future-proof their tourism strategies and strengthen their role in the global travel ecosystem.
These programmes align with PATA’s Strategy 2030, which prioritises digital transformation, sustainable tourism, and SME empowerment across the Asia Pacific region. By equipping Sarawak’s tourism businesses and DMO staff with practical AI knowledge and a deeper understanding of digital tools, PATA and STB continue to build a more sustainable, innovative, and competitive tourism sector.
For more information about the training programmes, contact PATA at [email protected].
About PATA Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that catalyses the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its member organisations, which include government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations and educational institutions; and youth members worldwide.
SINGAPORE, 15 April, 2024: Princess Cruises has announced a special six-day sailing on Discovery Princess in October 2025 out of Singapore.
The ship will make her maiden call to Singapore on 28 October 2 and set sail to the Malaysian ports of Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur), Penang, and Langkawi before returning to Singapore on 2 November. She will also make maiden calls to the three Malaysian destinations.
Photo credit: Discovery Princess to visit Singapore.
This will be her only voyage in Southeast Asia before the ship sails on to Australia to start her homeporting season in Sydney, which will begin in November 2025 and end in April 2026. She will sail around Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific.
Discovery Princess will be Princess Cruises’ newest ship to visit Singapore and Southeast Asia. She sailed on her inaugural voyage in March 2022 from Los Angeles and can accommodate up to 3,660 guests and over 1,300 crew. It has over 1,800 staterooms, including over 1,400 with balconies, spread over 19 decks.
Diamond Princess to Homeport in Singapore for 2025-26 season
Diamond Princess will commence her homeporting season in Singapore from 6 December 2025 until February 2026, sailing around Southeast Asia. She will visit destinations in Vietnam such as Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Halong Bay, and Da Nang. Malaysian ports such as Langkawi, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur, as well as Phuket, will also be visited. Ko Samui and Bangkok. One sailing will also include Cambodia, where guests can visit Angkor Wat.
Diamond Princess will then offer an extended Japan season from February to November 2026, with 50 sailings across various itineraries.
DUBAI, 11 April 2025: Emirates will introduce its Airbus A380s fitted with its latest cabins, including premium economy, to Manchester and Milan.
The latest retrofitted A380s will operate EK017/018 flights to Manchester from 6 June, and EK091/092 to Milan from 1 July.*
With the introduction of Emirates’ newly retrofitted A380 to Manchester, the airline will expand its premium economy offering to nearly 5,000 weekly seats in and out of the UK starting in June. The enhanced service to Manchester complements the four daily retrofitted A380s currently serving the Dubai-London Heathrow route, the Emirates A350 operating to Edinburgh, and the soon-to-launch refurbished Boeing 777 scheduled to serve London Stansted from May.
Milan will become Emirates’ second Italian gateway to offer the airline’s latest cabins and premium economy seats following the planned deployment of the airline’s A350 to Bologna later in June.
These additions will expand Emirates’ network of retrofitted A380 destinations to 19 worldwide.
By July, travellers from Manchester and Milan can experience Emirates’ latest cabin features onboard the four-class A380 on the whole journey to key points across Australasia and Asia, including Sydney, Singapore, Osaka, Mumbai and Bangalore.
On a four-class Emirates A380, the premium economy cabin is at the front of the main deck with 56 seats in a 2-4-2 configuration. Each seat offers generous pitch and width for working and relaxing, as well as customised features like in-seat charging points and a side cocktail table. The onboard experience is rounded off with meticulously selected in-flight amenities, a curated menu, and extensive beverage options.
Bookings can be made on emirates.com, the Emirates App, Emirates’ retail stores or via both online and offline travel agents.
* Aircraft deployment may be advanced if released earlier from refurbishment
PATTAYA, 10 April 2025: The 3rd edition of The AssetWise Junior Tennis Thailand Championship, a premier tennis event for young athletes, will be held from 3 to 4 May 2025 at the Fitz Club Pattaya.
The prestigious sports facility, part of the Royal Cliff Hotel Group, hosts what is now a highly anticipated event on Thailand’s tennis calendar.
Designed for children aged 4 to 14, the tournament allows participants to earn points towards their national ranking in Thailand. AssetWise Public Company Limited, in partnership with Yonex and Technifibre, is the proud sponsor for this renowned event.
The tournament aims to establish Pattaya as a premier tennis destination, providing young athletes the ideal platform to showcase their skills and compete in a supportive and encouraging environment.
It is designed to promote the values of discipline, teamwork, and healthy competition while helping players refine their technical abilities. The goal is to nurture and develop future tennis talent in Thailand and support their progression to higher levels of competition, including the ATP circuit.
Additionally, on 2 May 2025, Royal Cliff will host the Junior Tennis Clinic & Challenge. This engaging session will allow participants to warm up with exercises and participate in a mini-competition to prepare for the exciting tournament. The lucky draw winners will face off against Vitanart Vathanakul, CEO of Royal Cliff and the winner of the ITF Masters Championship, in a super tie-break challenge. The challenge winners will receive special prizes.
Beyond the competitive action, the tournament weekend is packed with various activities and social gatherings to entertain players and their families. Food stations will present delicious local and international dishes, beverages, fruits, ice creams, and other refreshments for all attendees.
Medical staff and support services will be available throughout the event. The venue will also provide dedicated game zones where children can engage in creative activities, such as arts and crafts while waiting for their matches. A relaxation zone will offer massages and a range of treatments provided by skilled therapists.
Registration for the tournament is now open, and interested players and parents can sign up at www.royalcliff.com/aswj .
Special room rates are available for tournament entrants by contacting the Royal Cliff at 038-250421 ext. 2820-24 or [email protected].
Fitz Club – Racquets, Health & Fitness, the elite sports centre under the Royal Cliff banner, continues to cement its reputation as a premier destination for professional and recreational athletes. Renowned past ATP players such as Nikolay Davydenko, Mikhail Youzhny, Dmitry Tursunov, Paradorn Srichaphan, Danai Udomchoke, and Denis Istomin have trained at this facility, which has courts designed to replicate the environment and conditions faced at the Australian Open. Fitz Club’s rich history includes hosting various sporting events, from Junior and Senior Tennis tournaments to Squash championships and Table Tennis competitions, further establishing its legacy in the world of sports. By May 2025, Fitz Club will offer additional sports, including Pickleball, Futsal and Basketball. For more information on the Royal Cliff Hotels Group and Fitz Club, please visit www.royalcliff.com and www.facebook.com/fitzclub.
KUALA LUMPUR, 10 April 2025: Malaysian Aviation Group (MAG) has been appointed as the Official Airline Partner and Premier Sponsor for the MATTA Fair, 18 to 20 April 2025, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur.
Fair organiser Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents has collaborated with the national airline since the MATTA Fair’s March 2018 edition. Through the partnership, consumers can access various airfare bargains for domestic and international destinations and bundled holiday packages available at the airline’s pavilion (Level 3 International Halls MITEC) during the three-day fair.
Holiday packages and fare deals are featured by the airline group’s Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, MASwings, and AMAL for inbound, domestic, and international travel.
The MAG Pavilion, covering 72 booths, offers an interactive and immersive experience where the public can engage with MAG’s offerings, learn about its inflight experience, and discover exciting destinations. MAG’s presence at the MATTA Fair ensures visitors enjoy flexibility in planning their local escape or international adventures.
MATTA president Nigel Wong stated: “This time-honoured partnership ensures a strong alliance and growth in the tour and travel industry both at the domestic and international levels. MATTA’s primary goal is to drive sustainability and responsible tourism at all levels, and we believe that this partnership will remain strong into the future years and our MATTA Fairs.
“In line with our commitment to strengthen our members’ business, MATTA is introducing an international travel B2B event, MATTA Connect, to provide an opportunity for international sellers from many different countries to connect with local Malaysian travel agency buyers to explore ways to establish new business partnerships.”
MATTA Connect will take place on 17 April 2025 at MITEC, the day before the MATTA Fair opens.
As the Premier Sponsor and Official Airline Partner, MAG’s participation and support increases the MATTA Fair experience, not only with exclusive travel deals but also by being a major contributor to the Buyers Contest, MATTA Fair’s flagship giveaway contest. Visitors stand a chance to win exciting prizes, including the grand prize of a business class return ticket to Paris and additional economy class air tickets, simply by spending a minimum of MYR100 at the fair.
Malaysia Aviation Group Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines, Dersenish Aresandiran said: “We are delighted to once again partner with MATTA Fair as the Official Airline Partner and Premier Sponsor through Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, MASwings and AMAL. This partnership strengthens MAG’s commitment to Visit Malaysia 2026 while reinforcing Kuala Lumpur’s role as a key gateway to Asia and beyond.”
For the latest updates, visit the MATTA Fair’s website MATTA Fair
BANGKOK, Thailand, 10 April 2025: April marks the start of the holiday travel season around the world, as the school break and Easter long weekend give families and friends the chance to come together and create precious memories. In Thailand, this holiday spirit bursts into life as the kingdom celebrates Songkran, the spectacular New Year water festival.
One of the planet’s most iconic and inspiring celebrations, this multi-day extravaganza, which runs from 13-15 April, sees Thai towns and cities bursting with life and colour, including vibrant street parties in Bangkok, charming cultural rituals in Chiang Mai, upbeat beachside celebrations in Phuket and Koh Samui. But there’s no need to worry if you’re travelling elsewhere; Centara Hotels & Resorts is spreading the joy of Songkran around the globe with authentic activities at its hotels and resorts in the Maldives, Osaka, Dubai, Vientiane, and of course, plenty of destinations all across the “Land of Smiles”.
Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, the underwater-themed resort centred around a world-class water park, is the perfect place to feel the splash of Songkran. Kids and parents can enjoy endless days of Thai New Year festivities from 13-15 April, including races along the Maldives’ longest lazy river, pool parties, inflatable ball games and a “colour fun” marathon! Guests can also discover Thai street food, cultural dances, live shows, a silent disco and more, creating unforgettable escapes for all ages. Across the bridge at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, the newly-opened neighbouring resort, revellers can get the party started with a mixology class featuring Thai-inspired cocktails, tropical pool parties with a live DJ and saxophonist, and a Thai street food barbecue. In the social spirit of Songkran, visitors at both resorts can mix, mingle and celebrate together.
Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives is an aquatic paradise that inspires individuality and invites active travellers to explore the beauty of the South Ari Atoll, including its award-winning house reef. This natural paradise will be transformed into an oasis of Thainess on Songkran Day (Sunday 13 April), with a vibrant parade and fun-filled beach games, culminating with a special Thai buffet dinner showcasing the kingdom’s timeless flavours. At Centara Ras Fushi Resort, the adults-only private island retreat, couples and friends can capture the essence of Thai New Year with a colourful parade and beach races by day, followed by a Thai street food festival and thrilling DJ party after dark.
Bringing the spirit of Songkran to the streets of Osaka.
Looking over the city streets, Centara Grand Hotel Osaka seamlessly blends Japan’s ultra-modern style with heartfelt Thai hospitality. On 13 April, the hotel will become a haven of Thai heritage as it honours Songkran with a full day of festivities. Following a traditional Buddhist water ceremony to open the festival, visitors’ senses will be transported to the “Land of Smiles” with Thai street food, refreshing floral drinks, dance performances from the four regions of Thailand, and a long drum performance. Invitation cards in the rooms and suites will give each guest a personal connection to the celebrations.
Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai will soak all ages in the fun and excitement of Songkran. Little ones can enjoy a full day of inspiring activities on 14 April, including arts & crafts classes at Camp Safari, the resort’s colourful kids’ club, water basketball games in the pool, and a wet & wild Thai-inspired water festival at the beach! Then, after dark, children can enjoy a kids’ disco, loved ones can unwind together with a movie at the beachfront cinema, and a traditional belly dancing show will immerse guests in Middle Eastern culture.
COSI Hotels, Centara’s smart and affordable lifestyle brand, perfectly captures the upbeat, social vibe of Songkran. Savvy travellers who stay at these hip neighbourhood hotels in Thailand (Koh Samui, Pattaya, and Krabi) and Laos (Vientiane) during Songkran will be able to connect with like-minded explorers and get the party started with plenty of water splashing fun, DJ pool parties, and cool refreshments.
Splash into Songkran in style at Centara Reserve Samui’s iconic pool bar
And, of course, Centara will offer plenty of opportunities for international visitors to celebrate Songkran in Thailand, with vibrant festivities all across the “Land of Smiles”. At Centara Reserve Samui, the sophisticated storytelling retreat, guests can learn the rich cultural narrative of the Thai New Year on 13 April with a morning alms-giving ceremony with local Buddhist monks, a traditional long drum parade, and a variety of authentic dishes at the Songkran Brunch. Then, on 14 April, the Songkran Market Feast will present a feast of heritage-infused Southern Thai flavours, such as sea bass wrapped in banana leaves, tom yum seafood soup and more, all accompanied by live Thai music and traditional dances to evoke the spirit of Songkran “Thailand’s most iconic festival, Songkran, truly represents the country’s rich heritage – from the gentle grace of Buddhist water cleansing rituals to the fun-filled water parties that highlight the country’s ‘sanook’ spirit. As a proud Thai company with a commitment to delivering warm, heartfelt hospitality, we are delighted to bring our country’s rich traditions to life around the world and to let all our discerning guests find their perfect ‘Place to Be’ with Centara this Songkran,” said Thirayuth Chirathivat, CEO of Centara Hotels & Resorts. For more information and to discover your ultimate Songkran and Easter escape with Centara this April, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.
ABOUT CENTARA Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 90 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Turkey and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.
KOTA KINABALU, 10 April 2025: ASEAN-bassed travel associations and AirAsia are co-leading an initiative to introduce a new regional travel show hosted in Kota Kinabalu this June.
The ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATEX) 2025 website, ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATEX) 2025, is now live and accepting registrations as the new, private sector-led initiative takes shape.
ATEX 2025 is scheduled to debut in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, from 19 to 21 June 2025. The timing is noteworthy as Malaysia holds the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025.
ATEX 2025 is a collaborative initiative spearheaded by key regional tourism bodies. The co-leaders establishing the new trade show comprise the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA), the Federation of ASEAN Travel Associations (FATA), the Malaysia Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA), and the AirAsia Group. Sabah’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment will host the inaugural event in Kota Kinabalu and adopt a support role in the organisational framework.
The core business objectives of ATEX 2025 include establishing a private sector-driven B2B platform for the Southeast Asian travel industry, promoting Sabah as a significant tourism destination, aligning with the ASEAN Protocol 5 on airline stopover rights to enhance regional connectivity, fostering greater collaboration among tourism stakeholders, and engaging with crucial international markets such as China and India.
Recognising the importance of attracting visitors from beyond the immediate ASEAN region, ATEX 2025 has set a specific target of hosting 230 buyers from key international markets, including Southeast Asia, China, and India. The event should also attract 500 travel trade executives from ASEAN, China, and India to engage in 23 networking hours. According to the event’s website, a conference on the sidelines of the trade show has recruited six speakers.
ATEX is set to become an annual event that ideally rotates alphabetically between the 10 ASEAN member countries. The initiative’s leaders stress that the show will complement government-led efforts like the ASEAN Tourism Forum and its Travex component. However, it will funded entirely by the private sector and led by the region’s travel associations along with the AirAsia Group. Once the event begins an annual rotation of ASEAN’s 10 member countries, the host country’s local travel agency association will join the organising committee as a co-leader and the host country’s national tourism office as a supporting partner.
ATEX 2025’s alignment with key initiatives such as the ASEAN Protocol 5 on Own Stopover Rights will enhance regional connectivity. By promoting multi-destination travel and making it easier for tourists to explore various ASEAN countries, the event can contribute to a more integrated and appealing tourism experience for visitors.
The inaugural show will be held at the Magellan Sutera Resort, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, from 19 to 21 June,
SINGAPORE, 10 April 2025: The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has welcomed Play Qiddiya City as a new destination partner, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of Saudi Arabia’s tourism landscape.
As the destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for Qiddiya City, Play Qiddiya City positions the city destination as a world-class Travel & Tourism hub and the home of Play.
Photo credit: Qiddiya Media. Racetrack rendering with a promise to be part of the play at Qiddiya City, a 45 km drive from Riyadh.
Located just 40 minutes from Riyadh, Qiddiya City is one of Saudi Arabia’s visionary giga-projects, developed under the auspices of Vision 2030 to drive economic diversification and enrich the quality of life for residents. The city seamlessly integrates its Power of Play philosophy into every aspect of its development, offering immersive experiences across entertainment, sports, and culture.
WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson said: “Play Qiddiya City embodies the spirit of innovation and transformation at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s fast-moving Travel & Tourism sector. More than just a destination, Qiddiya City is a movement redefining how people engage with tourism, leisure, and cultural experiences.
“We are delighted to welcome Play Qiddiya City to WTTC and look forward to supporting their journey as they redefine travel experiences in the region. This partnership showcases its commitment to sustainable development and its ambition to become a global leader in entertainment and leisure.”
Play Qiddiya City Director General Ross McAuley added: “Joining WTTC marks a significant milestone for Play Qiddiya City as we establish our presence on the global stage. As the ultimate ambassador for play, Qiddiya City is based on an idea whose time has come, offering an unparalleled blend of sports, entertainment, and culture.
“This partnership underscores our commitment to pushing boundaries, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to experience our theme parks, sporting venues, and esports and gaming district.”
Qiddiya City’s ambitious plans include a groundbreaking motorsports track featuring “The Blade,” the world’s first cantilevered track section; Falcon’s Flight, the tallest, fastest, and longest rollercoaster globally, located within Six Flags Qiddiya City; and the region’s largest water park, Aquarabia Qiddiya City. These visionary developments reflect Qiddiya City’s philosophy that “ordinary needs an extra,” ensuring every experience is extraordinary.
About Play Qiddiya City Play Qiddiya City is the destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) tasked with leading, coordinating, and influencing all aspects of Qiddiya City’s socio-economic growth under a coherent strategy, considering the needs of visitors, residents, businesses, and the environment.
About Qiddiya City Construction of the entertainment and tourism megaproject in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, started at the beginning of 2019. It was scheduled to open in 2023, though as of 2024, significant projects, including Six Flags Qiddiya City, the Aquarabia waterpark, and the Formula One racetrack, are still under construction. The F1 racetrack is now scheduled to open in 2027). The project is part of the Saudi Vision 2030 programme, which aims to diversify the Saudi economy. (Source: Wikipedia).
