Category Archives: Travel & Tourism

Travel & Tourism

Mastercard-Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index reveals trends shaping the future of Halal travel

10th annual report spotlights leading Muslim-friendly destinations worldwide

Dubai, UAE; June 18, 2025 – As awareness of Muslim travelers’ needs grows, Halal travel is increasingly shaping how destinations design and deliver experiences. According to the newly released 2025 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), international Muslim arrivals reached 176 million in 2024 – up 25% from 2023 – and are projected to grow to 245 million by 2030. By then, total travel spending is expected to reach USD$230 billion, highlighting the growing influence and economic potential of this vibrant market.

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Travel & Tourism

Ethiopian Airlines commences new passenger service to Sharjah

Sharjah – June 3, 2025: Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest network operating carrier and one of the world’s fastest-growing airline brands, has launched a new passenger service Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, to Addis Ababa effective June 1, 2025.

The route launch and inaugural flight was celebrated in Sharjah with a vibrant event attended by H.E. Sheikh Khalid Isam Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation – Sharjah, H.E. Oumer Hussien, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to the UAE, Mr. Solomon Begashaw, Area Manager, Ethiopian Airlines (UAE), Mrs. Rahel Assefa, Vice President – Marketing, Ethiopian Airlines Group, Mr. Khalid Waleed Al Mansoori, Manager – Overseas Promotions Department, Sharjah Tourism, and other officials from Sharjah Government and Ethiopian Airlines.

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Business & Investments, Travel & Tourism

Wellness, nature and food drive 2025 travel trends in EEMEA, according to Mastercard Economics Institute

  • Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh in top 15 trending destinations for global travelers this summer[1]
  • Jeddah and Riyadh have seen a rise in passenger traffic in 2024 compared to 2019
  • Istanbul tops the list of globalized foodie cities, which also features Doha, Dubai, Marrakech and Cape Town
  • South Africa and Zambia dominate cross-border spending within national park areas, Namibia leads wellness travel, and Kenya is a fast-growing contender

Dubai, UAE; 13 May 2025: The Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI) today released Travel Trends 2025, its annual report with unique and proprietary consumer spending insights globally. While exchange rates and geopolitical dynamics can influence consumer behavior, the report highlights that passions and purpose-driven motivations remain strong drivers shaping the travel industry.

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Travel & Tourism

Abu Dhabi Airports Announces New Air Seychelles Service Between Seychelles and Abu Dhabi

  • Enhanced air links unlock greater regional and international connectivity through Abu Dhabi
  • Six weekly flights to boost tourism, trade, and travel between the Seychelles and Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE – May 26, 2025: Abu Dhabi Airports announced the launch of Air Seychelles’ new passenger flight service connecting Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) to Zayed International Airport (AUH). The new route, which operates six times a week, strengthens connectivity between the UAE’s capital and the stunning Seychelles, providing travellers with more opportunities to explore the islands and enjoy seamless travel.

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Travel & Tourism

Longer Holidays, Bucket-List Destinations & a Shift Toward Early Planning Define UAE Travel Trends for Eid Al Adha 2025, Says musafir.com

60% Eid Bookings for Families; Women’s Group Travel Grows 15%

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May 8, 2025; Dubai, UAE — With Eid Al Adha fast approaching, UAE residents are making bold travel plans — and musafir.com , the UAE’s leading travel platform, reveals a sharp surge in demand for longer, experience-driven international holidays. A 40% increase in Eid holiday enquiries compared to 2024 signals not just pent-up wanderlust, but also a growing appetite for premium, curated escapes.

According to musafir.com , European getaways are topping the travel charts this Eid, with Switzerland, France, Italy, Germany, Latvia, and Budapest drawing strong interest from UAE residents. These destinations, along with Japan, are considered premium, once-in-a-lifetime holidays — ideal for those looking to tick off iconic landmarks, indulge in unique cultural experiences, and enjoy cooler summer temperatures. Given the longer flight times and higher investment, travelers are opting for extended 8–10-day itineraries to fully immerse themselves in these scenic and historical settings, often combining multiple cities in one trip.

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