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5 minutes ago
India’s biggest airline IndiGo said yesterday its operations had stabilised after it cancelled thousands of flights, triggering days of airport chaos — sparked by a since-suspended new pilot rest policy. “Our on-time performance is… back to normal levels,” an IndiGo statement said, adding the airline was operating more than 1,800 flights on Tuesday, and planned to “fly nearly 1,900 flights” on Wednesday. But India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), told the airline to cut its planned flights by five percent, as it had “not demonstrated an ability to operate these schedules efficiently.” Airports across India were thrown into disarray last week, with the private carrier admitting “misjudgement and planning gaps” in adapting to new rules had led to an operational meltdowneven though it had two years to prepare for the switch. The new rules came into effect last month, with the aim of giving pilots more rest periods to enhance passenger safety. India’s Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu last week said the flight duty time limitations rules had “been placed in abeyance”.Naidu told parliament on Tuesday that a “detailed enforcement investigation” into the disruption had begun. “No airline, however large, will be permitted to […]
33 minutes ago
Rail travel across the GCC is moving closer to reality, with member states now signing new agreements and accelerating cross-border rail projects. In September, Gulf Railway Authority confirmed fresh progress on the unified GCC Railway Project, setting December 2030 as the completion target. While the region’s train systems are still developing at different speeds, the foundations are already in place. Saudi Arabia operates established networks such as Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and the Haramain High-Speed Rail. Etihad Rail in the UAE is running freight services, with passenger operations expected to launch in 2026, connecting 11 cities. Here is a breakdown of the key active and recently announced rail projects shaping the future of GCC travel. 1. Saudi Arabia–Qatar high-speed rail Saudi Arabia and Qatar have signed a formal agreement to build a new high-speed electric railway connecting Riyadh and Doha. The line is expected to be completed within six years. Once operational, the journey between the two capitals could be cut to around two hours, with trains travelling over 300 km/h. Stretching 785 kilometres, the route is projected to carry more than 10 million passengers a year, supporting smoother travel, stronger trade links and increased tourism. The network will run through key Saudi cities – Riyadh, Hofuf and Dammam and connect two major airports – King Salman International […]
53 minutes ago
Etihad Airways has cancelled its flights between Abu Dhabi and Lisbon today following widespread industrial action in Portugal that is expected to disrupt air travel, public transport and essential services across the country. The airline announced that flight EY099 from Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport to Lisbon Portela International Airport, and the return service EY100, have both been cancelled on Thursday, 11 December. The carrier cited a “National Industrial Action affecting all airlines in Lisbon airport.” “We apologise for this inconvenience, our teams are doing their best to assist with your travel arrangements,” Etihad said in a statement. The carrier urged affected passengers to update their contact details at etihad.com/contactme to receive the latest travel updates and assistance. Portugal braces for its first general strike in a decade The cancellations come as Portugal faces its first general strike since 2013, a move expected to paralyse key services across the nation. The coordinated walkout, organised by the country’s two largest union confederations CGTP and UGT, is aimed at opposing proposed labour reforms that unions say will erode workers’ rights and job security. The government plans to make it easier for companies to dismiss staff and expand the scope of “essential services” that must […]
23 hours ago
For many Indians living in Bahrain, gold is more than just a metal; it’s a crucial investment and a cultural necessity. Competitive pricing, largely due to zero GST on gold bullion and jewellery, makes it an attractive hub for purchasing. With gold in Bahrain often being 5% to 7% cheaper than in India, it’s a common practice for expatriates to buy gold to carry back. However, understanding the rules for importing this valuable asset is essential to ensure a smooth journey through Indian Customs. Indian citizens returning home after residing abroad for more than one year must be aware of the specific duty-free limits to avoid customs duties. Male passengers are permitted to bring back gold jewellery up to a maximum of 20 grams (with a maximum value of ₹50,000), which is approximately BHD 210. Female passengers are allowed a higher limit of up to a maximum of 40 grams (with a maximum value of ₹1,00,000), which is approximately BHD 420. It is crucial to note that this duty-free allowance applies only to gold jewellery, not to gold in the form of coins, biscuits, or bars. For those planning to carry a larger quantity, the rules state that Indian travellers […]
24 hours ago
Dubai has introduced a citywide one-time contactless hotel check-in solution, marking a major leap in visitor convenience and digital innovation under the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. Announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the initiative is set to transform arrival processes across the emirate’s hotels and holiday homes. Developed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and available through several independent providers, the biometric and digital capability is now ready for immediate integration. It enables guests to bypass in-person check-in procedures entirely, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading global destination for business and leisure. Dubai biometric hotel check-in The new solution allows visitors to complete all check-in formalities in advance from their mobile phones. By uploading identification documents and biometric data once, guests benefit from significantly reduced or eliminated check-in times. The securely held data remains valid until the identification document expires, allowing future visits to start with a quick authentication, such as facial recognition. Complementing Dubai’s repeat visitation rate—where repeat visitors make up almost a quarter of total annual arrivals—the solution enhances loyalty by […]
2 days ago
Filipino airline Cebu Pacific has launched its 12.12 Super Seat Fest, offering Dubai-based travellers the chance to book flights to the Philippines for as low as AED 1. The pre-holiday offer gives passengers an opportunity to plan travel well in advance for next year. The seat sale runs from to December 13 and Dubai passengers can book AED1 one-way base fares—exclusive of fees and surcharges—for travel between June 1 and November 30, 2026. Cebu Pacific Dubai to Philippines flights The promotion supports demand for early planning among UAE residents visiting family, exploring the islands or taking advantage of domestic connections across the Philippines. From Manila, passengers can connect to 27 domestic destinations across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Travellers can explore destinations such as Bohol and its Chocolate Hills, or enjoy a nature escape on Samal Island. Cebu Pacific’s wide domestic network also enables seamless connections via Clark, Cebu, Iloilo and Davao, providing access to lesser-known provinces and emerging tourism hotspots. CEB currently operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia and the Middle East, offering travellers extensive flexibility in planning multi-stop itineraries. Also Read : Dubai Garden Glow Returns With Double The Fun
3 days ago
Saudi Arabia and Qatar have signed an agreement to implement a 785km high-speed electric passenger railway connecting Riyadh and Doha. The major development strengthens regional connectivity and reflects the deep-rooted fraternal relations between the two countries. The signing was witnessed by Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Saudi to Qatar rail network The agreement was signed by Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh Al-Jasser and Minister of Transport of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani within the framework of the Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council. It represents a strategic move aimed at enhancing cooperation, developmental integration and sustainable development, while underscoring a shared commitment to regional prosperity. The railway will link the two capitals and pass through Hofuf and Dammam, connecting King Salman International Airport in Riyadh and Hamad International Airport in Doha. Designed for speeds exceeding 300kmph, the route will reduce travel time between Riyadh and Doha to approximately two hours, significantly improving mobility, supporting trade and tourism, and enhancing quality of life. According to the agreement, the project will be completed within six years and will […]
3 days ago
Saudi Arabia is on track for the deployment of its luxury train service, named aptly Dream of the Desert, in 2026. You can now book your suite for next year and expect a luxury retreat on wheels. Here’s a look at 5 things you need to know about the luxe new offering and the five itineraries you can choose from: 1. Aline Asmar d’Amman is the architect and interior designer of this dream ride. She — and her studio, Culture in Architecture — came up with a plan that celebrates traditional Saudi craftsmanship. 2. The train has 14 carriages and 33 luxury cabins that will accommodate 66 passengers at a time. 3. The suite cabins of Dream of the Desert marry traditional Saudi elements with contemporary luxury. Think wooden marquetry, rich upholstery, soft lighting, and details inspired by the Saudi equestrian culture. 4. As a passenger on this luxe rail, you’ll have dedicated butlers and 24-hour room service. 5. There will be a long list of live performances during your journey. What will the journey cost? Reservations are now open for the 2026 season of Dream of the Desert. Prices will start at SAR30,000 per cabin per night. To guarantee a spot, you’ll need to provide a fully refundable pre-reservation […]
4 days ago
India’s aviation industry grappled to limit the consequences of the IndiGo crisis, as operational disruptions continued to inconvenience thousands of travellers. The cancellations of thousands of IndiGo flights since Wednesday led to airfares skyrocketing for domestic sectors by more than 10 times. On Saturday, the government intervened and capped airfares after IndiGo cancelled a further 385 flights. India caps airfares amid IndiGo turmoil Bengaluru was the hardest hit city by Saturday’s cancellations, with 124 flights affected. There were 109 cancellations in Mumbai, 86 in New Delhi and 66 in Hyderabad, Reuters reported. Fares were last capped by the government during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and a Civil Aviation Ministry spokesperson said it would “continue to closely monitor fare levels through real-time data and active coordination with airlines”. The Ministry of Civil Aviation ordered a nationwide cap on domestic airfares, ordering the airlines not to charge above the newly fixed maximum fares which have been introduced in the public interest to stabilise prices until operations return to normal. Under the cap, the maximum fares allowed are: INR7,500 (US$83.2/AED306) for routes up to 500kms; INR12,000 (US$133/AED487) for 500 to 1,000kms; INR15,000 (US$166.4/AED611) for 1,000-1,500kms, and INR18,000 (US$200/AED734) for routes above 1,500kms. […]
5 days ago
The Bahrain International Exhibition Centre has completed preparations to host the 32nd World Travel Awards (WTA) Grand Finale today. This will be the first time the prestigious global event is held in the Kingdom. More than 500 international figures and senior leaders from the tourism, travel and hospitality sectors are expected to attend. The ceremony will also honour 118 winners recognised as global leaders in their respective categories. Sara Ahmed Buheji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority and Chairperson of the Exhibition Centre’s Board, said hosting the WTA Grand Finale reflects global confidence in Bahrain’s tourism sector and the Centre’s world-class facilities. The Grand Finale concludes the World Travel Awards’ annual global tour, which includes regional events across continents celebrating excellence in the sector. Since its launch in 1993, the WTA has become one of the travel industry’s most respected honours, attracting senior government officials, CEOs, decision-makers and international media. The event is expected to further highlight Bahrain’s growing position as a regional hub for major tourism and business events.
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