French low-cost airline Transavia to launch Madinah flights
The Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP), in partnership with the Al Madinah Region Development Authority (MDA), has announced that it has entered into an agreement with Transavia, a French low-cost airline partly owned by Air France, for the launch of its operations into Saudi Arabia.
As per the deal, Transavia will start flights from Paris-Orly, Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse to Madinah beginning this October.
This expansion complements the successful launch last year of routes connecting Paris-Orly and Lyon with Jeddah, enhancing air connectivity and reflecting the increasing growth in travel demand between the two countries.
The Air Connectivity Program is aimed at enhancing tourism growth in Saudi Arabia by developing existing air routes and creating new destinations, thereby contributing to connecting the kingdom with the world.
It also underscores KSA's position as a major destination and supports the tourism goals of the Saudi Vision 2030 by increasing the number of tourists arriving into the country.
CEO of the Air Connectivity Program Majid Khan described the development of air connectivity between France and Saudi Arabia as a fundamental pillar of the National Tourism Strategy.
He highlighted that this expansion will contribute to capitalizing on the significant opportunities in the Umrah market from France, while supporting the Kingdom's tourism objectives.
Transavia France Chief Commercial Officer Nicolas Henin, while lauding the successful operation of the Lyon-Jeddah and Paris-Orly-Jeddah routes, expressed delight at the airline's plan to boost its presence in the kingdom.
Henin said Transavia France was excited to start flights to Madinah and strengthen the airline's ongoing partnership with Saudi airports.
CEO of Tibah Airports Operation Company Sofiene Abdessalem said the selection of Madinah among Transavia France's new destinations confirms the city's religious and cultural status, while underlining the efforts made to enhance its presence on the international air connectivity map.
This expansion supports direct access from Europe and contributes to providing an integrated travel experience for pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
Abdessalem emphasized the commitment to supporting initiatives related to the Saudi Aviation Strategy by strengthening the network of international destinations and integrating efforts with partners in the public and private sectors, in line with the objectives of Vision 2030.
He praised the role of the Air Connectivity Program in supporting these strategic partnerships and enabling international connectivity, which enhances tourism growth and facilitates access to the Kingdom's destinations.- TradeArabia News Service
Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
FACT
2 days ago
- FACT
The FACT UAE Weekend Guide: 6 to 8 June 2025
Our picks of the hottest happenings this long weekend in Dubai. The first weekend in June is here, and whilst the mercury is rising, there's still plenty of time for fun in the sun. We're recommending Eid brunches, stunning staycations and Sunday soirées, so read on for our picks of the best things to do during the long weekend in Dubai. Friday 6 June Book an Eid staycation Make your way to The Lana – Dorchester Collection this Eid Al Adha for a truly luxurious getaway. The Summer in Dubai packages include a guaranteed double upgrade at the time of booking, daily Lana breakfast by Jean Imbert or Middle Eastern breakfast, which you can enjoy in your room or at Riviera by Jean Imbert. With tons of dining options, an infinity pool and the region's first Dior Spa, it's the ideal place to spend Eid. Rooms are priced from AED 1,500, while Junior Suites are from AED 3,500. GO: Visit for more information. Enjoy a festive feast at Palazzo Versace Dubai Gather your loved ones and head to Giardino at Palazzo Versace Dubai this Eid Al Adha for an elegant evening filled with flavour and festive spirit. This special Eid dinner promises a grand buffet experience set in a striking, jungle-inspired dining room or on the scenic outdoor terrace overlooking the pool and waterfront. Indulge in international favourites and regional delicacies designed to mark the occasion in style. Available on 6, 7 and 8 June from 6:30pm to 11pm. AED 263 (food only)or AED 275 (soft beverages). GO: Visit for more information. Try a fancy French brunch at FRNDS Grand Café Designed to be shared, the 'entre amis' (French for 'among friends') brunch from Secret Parties offers a menu of showstopping signatures such as Caviar-topped Dorade, 24-month aged Parmigiano Risotto, Josper-grilled Lamb Chops, Wagyu Tataki with Black Truffle, and the indulgent Grand Seafood Tower. Crave-worthy highlights also include Lobster Spaghetti, Truffle Pizza, and Yellowtail Crudo, rounded off with a playful dessert selection including Chocolate Wasabi. Available on Fridays from 7pm. AED 300 (house beverages only), AED 400 (food and house beverages), and AED 450 (premium beverages). GO: Visit for more information. Saturday 7 June Tuck into the summer brunch at Nahaam Brunch season is heating up at Nahaam as the popular poolside spot at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers rolls out its refreshed summer edition. Expect a vibrant culinary journey with live stations serving handmade pasta, poke bowls, smoked meats, sushi, and fresh produce from the hotel's hydroponic farm. Tailored beverages are crafted to complement every bite, while DJ Kristina brings the vibes with upbeat live music. Available on Saturday from 1pm to 4pm. AED 345 (soft beverages), AED 495 (house beverages) and AED 625 (French bubbles). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Witness the wonder of La Perle La Perle is a one-of-a-kind live entertainment show located in Al Habtoor City. Created by Franco Dragone, the mastermind behind Cirque du Soleil, it combines acrobatics, aerial stunts, water effects, and captivating storytelling to create a visually stunning and immersive theatrical experience. The attraction will be running special ticket promotions during the Eid Al Adha long weekend. Visit for tickets and more information. Sleep in the rainforest The Green Planet isn't simply home to over 3,000 plants and animals. It's also a go-to destination for unexpected experiences offered amidst an indoor ecosystem. Now, it's gearing up for the return of the region's only rainforest camping experience. After a buffet dinner – complete with roasting marshmallows and a nature documentary – you'll discover the rainforest's enchantments by learning about the biodome's most mysterious little friends in a nocturnal tour before falling asleep under the stars to the soft coos and songs of the rainforest's exotic birds. Prices start from AED 900 for two adults in the regular tent, while group bookings can be made at AED 1,700 for a party of four in the large tent. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Sunday 8 June Enjoy family fun at Yalumba Gather the whole family for a lively Sunday brunch at Yalumba, where global flavours meet feel-good fun. From interactive pizza-making and magic shows to a vibrant buffet spread, there's something for everyone. Available on Sundays from 1pm to 4pm. AED 225 (soft beverages), AED 325 (house beverages), AED 395 (premium beverages), and AED 115 (for children aged six to 12 years). GO: WhatsApp 050 289 7728 for more information. Tuck into a superb Sunday roast Sunday lunch gets the Heston treatment at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at Atlantis The Royal. Start with signature dishes like Meat Fruit (c.1500) or new additions such as Smoked Salmon Tartare (c.1847) and Roast Beetroot Salad (c.1830). Mains include Black Angus Sirloin with ox cheek-filled Yorkshire pudding, Roast Chicken with morel and brioche stuffing, and a Truffle Roast Cauliflower. For dessert, choose from a Trifle, Bakewell Tart, or the indulgent Chocolate Bar, accompanied by the playful Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Trolley as a sweet finale. Available on Sundays from 12pm to 3pm. AED 345 per adult and AED 195 per child. GO: Visit for more information. Experience Italian dining with a view at Farina Bringing the soul of Italy to the shores of JBR, Farina serves bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and coastal charm at Address Beach Resort. Expect hand-tossed pizzas straight from a traditional stone oven, rich house-made pastas, and seafood crafted with flair. Set against the sparkling backdrop of Ain Dubai and Bluewaters Island, Farina's chic setting is ideal for golden hour aperitivos, relaxed dinners, or late-night bites by the sea. GO: Visit for more information.
Middle East Eye
2 days ago
- Middle East Eye
Majority of British people support arms embargo on Israel
A majority of British people support a full arms embargo on Israel, according to a new poll commissioned by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. The poll, conducted by Opinium Research between 30 May and 2 June, found that 57 percent of people think the UK should impose a full arms embargo, with only 13 percent opposed. The poll also found 53 percent of people think Israel should be expelled from the United Nations, while 50 percent said Israeli products in supermarkets should be boycotted. Fifty-four percent backed sanctioning far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who has been a staunch supporter of Israel's total blockade of the Gaza Strip that has left over 93 percent of the population suffering from acute food insecurity. Increasing numbers of public figures in the UK are speaking out against Israel's war on Gaza, which has killed at least 54,607 Palestinians and wounded 125,341 since 7 October 2023. New MEE newsletter: Jerusalem Dispatch Sign up to get the latest insights and analysis on Israel-Palestine, alongside Turkey Unpacked and other MEE newsletters Last week, more than 300 artists signed an open letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer calling for an end to British arms sales to Israel. The new poll comes after a similar survey showed public support for Israel in European countries had fallen to its lowest recorded level. Support for Israel in Europe drops to record low, finds YouGov poll Read More » According to a survey by YouGov last month, fewer than a fifth of respondents in six countries held a favourable view of Israel. The poll was conducted between 12 and 26 May in Britain, France, Germany, Denmark, Spain and Italy. Middle East Eye revealed on Tuesday that the US has been pressuring the UK not to back a French proposal to recognise a Palestinian state. France is reportedly gearing up to unilaterally recognise Palestine at an upcoming UN conference. MEE understands that France has been lobbying Britain to do so as well. Prominent Israeli diplomat Alon Pinkas told MEE this week that Macron's push to recognise Palestinian statehood 'is serious and has the backing of most of the European Union and Saudi Arabia'. French officials believe the British government is on board with the plan, according to French media.
Zawya
2 days ago
- Zawya
Ewpartners expands to Hong Kong backed by Saudi Vision for global growth
The ongoing development of Saudi Vision 2030 is unlocking industry opportunities and accelerating cross-border cooperation with international investors, particularly in the rapidly growing capital markets sector. In collaboration with CMF Hong Kong, co-hosted by Saudi Tadawul Group and HKEX, ewpartners co-organized a luncheon that brought together over 100 key figures from government, investment, and entrepreneurial sectors across Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, and China. The new ewpartners office in Hong Kong was officially opened, with Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu highlighting the city's strategic role as a bridge between Asia and the Middle East, fostering innovation and growth. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Driven by Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, industrial growth has accelerated, fostering stronger cross-border cooperation, particularly with Asia. The capital markets between Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, and China have witnessed unprecedented vitality, with landmark deals such as CATL's $5.3 billion IPO and BYD's HK$43.5 billion H-share placement attracting substantial participation from Middle Eastern investors. Additionally, the Premia BOCHK Saudi Arabia Government Sukuk ETF began trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, a significant development announced during the second edition of CMF Hong Kong. During CMF Hong Kong, the luncheon co-hosted by ewpartners, CMF Hong Kong, Saudi Tadawul Group (STG), and HKEX marked a key milestone in strengthening capital market ties between Asia and the Middle East. Over 100 key representatives from government agencies, investment institutions, and entrepreneurs from Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong attended the event. The opening of ewpartners' new Hong Kong office was the main highlight of the luncheon, with Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu emphasizing the city's strategic role as a bridge between Asia and the Middle East, driving innovation and growth. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu graciously provided the following message for the opening of ewpartners' Hong Kong office: 'Fostering Strategic Partnerships across Borders, Driving Innovation, Growth, and Prosperity.' This message reflects Hong Kong's commitment to serving as the premier platform connecting Asia and the Middle East. Mohammed Al-Rumaih, CEO of Saudi Exchange, stated, 'We are seeing strong growth in the Saudi capital markets, with record IPOs and increased investor participation, reinforcing our position as a leading global exchange. The Saudi-Hong Kong collaboration is key to this success, exemplified by Sahm Capital, supported by ewpartners, becoming one of Saudi Arabia's fastest-growing fintech companies.' Dr. Bernard Chan, Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, highlighted Hong Kong's unique position as a global business hub, offering a mix of international and China advantages. 'With the rule of law, free capital flow, a competitive tax system, and world-class infrastructure, Hong Kong provides unmatched benefits for businesses worldwide, including those from the Middle East.' Cliff Chau, Managing Partner of ewpartners, said, 'Since our 2017 launch in Saudi Arabia, ewpartners has successfully bridged capital and expertise between Asia and the Middle East through over 20 projects. Our Hong Kong office will drive cross-regional collaboration, innovation, and growth, aligning with Hong Kong's role as a 'super connector.' We're excited to contribute to the ongoing success of Asia-Middle East cooperation.' With eight years of experience, ewpartners has formed strategic partnerships with leading Hong Kong-based tech companies, including Alibaba Cloud (HKG:9988), J&T Express (HKG:1519), and Leshines, a Lenovo supply chain arm (HKG:0992). These collaborations support Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, enabling businesses to leverage Hong Kong's strategic position and technology to create new industry opportunities in partnership with Saudi Arabia. These insights were outlined in ewpartners' whitepaper, Asia to Arabia: Strategic Investment Pathways in the GCC, released during the luncheon. The event highlights a new chapter in deepening ties between Asia and the Middle East, with Hong Kong emerging as a key investment and innovation hub, and ewpartners positioned as a central player in this transformation. About ewpartners ewpartners (formerly eWTP Arabia Capital) is an international investment firm specialising in cross-border investments between Asia and the Middle East. Backed by Sovereign Wealth Funds and investors from ASIA and the GCC, the firm has been active in Saudi Arabia since 2017 and was the first investment firm to launch a cross-border platform between the Kingdom and China. Headquartered in Riyadh, ewpartners focuses on building value across borders by establishing strategic partnerships with exceptional companies. Our team's expertise in shaping innovative conducive policy frameworks can support governments in fostering economic transformation and diversification driven by innovation and technology. We are committed to investing in, supporting, and growing successful businesses across the Asia and Middle East regions, with a focus on key industries and themes such as digital infrastructure & solutions, advanced manufacturing & energy transition, and logistics & consumer enablement. To Access White Paper:
