logo
Saudi Arabia, UK sign one-stop security deal for transit passengers

Saudi Arabia, UK sign one-stop security deal for transit passengers

Zawya9 hours ago

Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and UK Government have signed a one-stop security agreement in London, aimed at enhancing the experience of transit passengers by streamlining security procedures at Saudi Arabia airports.
Under the agreement, passengers travelling from UK airports via Saudi Arabia will no longer be required to undergo security screening during transit.
Security procedures completed at UK airports will be recognised at Saudi airports, allowing for faster connections and reduced transit times, while maintaining the highest international standards of aviation safety and security.
This milestone marks a strategic step in positioning Saudi Arabia as a global aviation hub, supporting the goals of the Saudi Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030 to enhance air connectivity and facilitate seamless international travel, said GACA in a statement.
This initiative is part of GACA's broader efforts to leverage technology and digital solutions to transform Saudi airports into world-class gateways, ensuring secure, efficient, and passenger centric operations, it stated.
The agreement was signed by Abdulaziz Al Duailej, the President of GACA, and Dr Rannia Leontaridi, the Director General for Aviation, Maritime, and Security at the UK Department for Transport.
"This agreement reflects the high level of trust and alignment between the security frameworks of both countries," said Mohammed Al Fawzan, the Executive Vice President for Aviation Security at GACA.
"It is expected to enhance the passenger journey by reducing wait times and eliminating redundant security checks. It will also improve airport and airline efficiency by shortening turnaround times and strengthening operational coordination through the exchange of best practices and risk data," he added.- TradeArabia News Service
Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Flight disruption and summer travel: What families in the UAE need to know
Flight disruption and summer travel: What families in the UAE need to know

The National

time36 minutes ago

  • The National

Flight disruption and summer travel: What families in the UAE need to know

The end of the school summer term is always a busy time across UAE airports, as many families jet off for their holidays. While some prefer to leave school early to get a head start on their break, others wait until after the last day of term, which falls on Thursday this year, and many more opt to stay in the UAE for a few weeks until the initial flurry at the airports calms down. Those planning to fly out this week have had to factor ongoing travel disruption into their plans amid the tension between Iran and Israel, and following the Iranian attack on US air base in Al Udeid in Qatar. Many flights around the region were diverted or cancelled altogether, and while many airlines are back to operating their usual routes across the Middle East, the knock-on effect of the disruption is still being felt. Airline advice: Allow extra time at the airport and check ahead As is typical with busy travel periods, holidaymakers have been advised to stay up to date about possible changes and leave more time to get to and around the airport. Emirates says more than 30,000 travellers are expected to depart Dubai International Airport on Thursday and this rush will continue until June 30. 'Emirates customers should plan for extra traffic on the roads approaching the airport, busier car parks, more people at the airport going through immigration and the time it may take to travel between concourses and reach boarding gates," the airline said in a statement. Emirates also issued advice on the amount of time travellers should allow for the check-in process. Passengers should arrive to the airport three hours before departure during peak times to ensure enough time to pass through immigration. Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport has been urging departing passengers to 'check with their airlines before heading to the airport'. Dubai Media Office adds: 'While Dubai Airports is working with airlines to ensure flights operate according to schedule, some flights may experience delays or cancellations.' 'We are rethinking our summer plans' As many families try to establish the status of their existing flights – or seek to rebook cancelled ones this week – some that have been directly affected by the events on June 23 say they are reconsidering travel this summer. One father-of-two says he is 'rethinking our summer plans' after his wife and two young daughters were on a plane that was diverted mid-flight owing to the attack on the US airbase. 'Mid-flight from Amman to Dubai, the captain announced that Qatar airspace had been closed and the plane route must be rerouted,' says the Dubai resident, who has chosen to speak anonymously. 'My wife was connected to Wi-Fi on the flight and received messages that Iran had launched missiles towards Qatar and that most Gulf countries closed their airspace. She thought that the plane would return to the outbound destination, but luckily, it didn't and it only took them around one extra hour to land,' he recounts. He says his wife mentioned other people on the flight were calm and that no one had panicked. He adds: 'I'm currently in China on business and am hoping that everything calms down before my return end of this month. But yes, we are rethinking our summer plans for sure. We will most likely avoid travelling this summer unless we feel that there is no more tension in the region.' The National contributor and mother-of-two Katy Gillett says keeping an eye on regional activity has become a priority when planning her travels in July and August. 'After the events in Qatar on Monday, and the fact that my husband got turned around back to Europe on a flight heading to Dubai, we've been considering meeting him in the UK, where my parents live,' she says. 'I'm not overly worried for our safety in the UAE, but I am concerned about further flight disruptions and not being able to reach my elderly parents if needed.' Uncertainty continues around flights and plans 'We were supposed to fly to Crete in a few weeks via Tel Aviv, but the first part of the trip has been cancelled,' says Sara Rafaghello, a mother of two who lives in Dubai. 'I spoke to the booking agent, who said to leave it for now and see if there's a chance the flight will come back online. The second part of the journey to Crete hasn't been cancelled.' She adds: 'I had booked the cheapest and quickest ticket because usually the flight is between 10 to 14 hours, but this was just six with the layover. I will either have to rebook new flights or wait a week and see what happens and hope the flight is reinstated.' Sofia Jones and her family's travel plans have also been impacted, despite the fact that they aren't due to fly for two weeks. She is planning to fly to Vancouver with her two sons on July 9. 'We had originally booked with Air Canada and that was back in December 2024, but I received emails from Air Canada this week saying they have cancelled all flights to Dubai until August 5,' she says. 'Personally, I think the cancellations are a bit extreme seeing that we weren't due to travel for another two weeks. Many other airlines are continuing to operate, so why wouldn't or couldn't they? Fortunately, we found an alternative route departing the same day around the same time which isn't inconvenient.'

Gulf Business panel: What's next for IPOs, investments and generational wealth in UAE?
Gulf Business panel: What's next for IPOs, investments and generational wealth in UAE?

Gulf Business

time41 minutes ago

  • Gulf Business

Gulf Business panel: What's next for IPOs, investments and generational wealth in UAE?

Image credit: Supplied/Gulf Business The Gulf Business panel, held on June 25, 2025, head at the Metropolitan Hotel Dubai, brought together an exceptional lineup of industry leaders to delve into some of the most pressing topics shaping the future of finance and investment in the region. Read- The event explored a range of key themes, from the growing popularity of residence-by-investment programs — commonly referred to as 'golden visas' — to the evolving outlook for UAE initial public offerings (IPOs) in 2025 and beyond. Another critical focus was the impact of the world's largest generational wealth transfer, and how it is expected to reshape investment strategies not only in the UAE but across global markets. Each panel session was thoughtfully curated, featuring insights from leading voices in investment, banking, and business setup. Among the standout speakers were: Damian Hitchen , CEO of Saxo Bank MENA Muhammed Hassan , capital markets Leader at PwC Yasmine Omari , head of wealth planning at Bank of Singapore George Hojeige , group CEO of Virtugroup Yogesh Khairajani , global market strategist at Century Financial Their collective expertise offered attendees a comprehensive understanding of emerging financial trends and actionable strategies for navigating the evolving economic landscape. As global and regional dynamics continue to shift, the Gulf Business panel reaffirmed the UAE's position as a strategic hub for investment innovation and long-term growth planning. Agenda Panel Discussion 1: From the UAE to the world: global mobility & residence by investment Topic: How geopolitical shifts are reshaping citizenship and relocation strategies Moderator: Claire Vuylsteke, Director, Orbcom Speakers George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtugroup Rahul Singh, managing director, Thrifty & Dollar Car Rental Sanjay Sachdev, group marketing director at Leptos Estates Greece and Cyprus Vishwajit Patil, senior executive officer (SEO) for Nuvama Private DIFC Key discussion points: Residence-by-investment options for UAE-based HNWIs Global mobility trends in a volatile world Strategic planning for personal and capital security Panel Discussion 2: UAE IPO outlook: 2025 and beyond Topic: What's next in the UAE's capital markets — and how investors can benefit Moderator: Nigel Sillitoe – CEO of Insight Discovery Speakers: Yogesh Khairajani, Global Market Strategist, Century Financial Manasvi Ghelani, Associate Director – Customer Engagement, Middle East Africa, Frost & Sullivan Muhammed Hassan, Capital Markets Leader at PwC Key discussion points: The next wave of public listings Market readiness vs global exchanges The impact of macroeconomic factors like interest rates and tariffs Panel Discussion-3: How the world's largest shift in capital is reshaping investment strategies in the UAE and beyond Moderator: Karishma Hingorani, Founder & Podcaster, Karishma Konnect Speakers: Damian Hitchen, CEO of Saxo Bank MENA Yasmine Omari, head of wealth planning, Bank of Singapore Gemma Wild, head of global collaboration, MENA GPB, HSBC Dave Chaggar, sales director, Capital Club Limited Key discussion points: Trillions in motion: The great wealth transfer and what it means Digital natives and changing investment priorities Succession planning, private banking, and wealth tech in the UAE Business exits are often celebrated as the ultimate badge of entrepreneurial success—but the truth behind the glossy headlines tells a more complex story. From clashes in corporate culture to misaligned visions and the hidden pressures of investor relationships, exits are less about escape and more about evolution. At the Gulf Business panel event held on June 25, 2025, industry leaders like Virtugroup's George Hojeige dismantled the myth of 'free money' and underscored the vital importance of choosing the right partners. Meanwhile, Dubai continues to position itself as a magnet for global wealth and IPO activity, setting the stage for a new era in capital movement, family investment strategy, and entrepreneurial transformation. Untold truth behind business exits: It's not as rosy as it looks Investors are not passive backers—they become deeply involved in the business. 'Nobody gives you money and walks away. They'll ask what you're doing with it, what your future looks like. Free money doesn't exist,' George Hojeige, group CEO, Virtugroup said at a keynote session at the Gulf Business panel event. A mismatch in vision or values, he warned, can derail even the strongest companies. 'It doesn't matter how much capital they bring—if they don't share your vision, you're doomed from day one,' Hojeige added. He pointed to Microsoft's 2014 acquisition of Nokia as a cautionary tale. 'It looked like a perfect match—two giants coming together. But the cultures clashed. Microsoft was fast-moving and innovation-driven. Nokia was traditional and process-focused. The result? Massive layoffs and a failed merger.' The message to fellow founders is clear: an exit is not just a transaction—it's a transformation. 'Pick the right partner. It's not just about money. It's about shared goals, culture, and a vision for the future. If you get that wrong, no amount of funding can fix it.' UAE stays ahead in global race for investment, and quality of life Globally, jurisdictions are now competing to offer the most attractive conditions for businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals looking to relocate. The UAE, especially since the introduction of the Golden Visa, has positioned itself as a strong hub for business operations and investment. However, it's important to note that other jurisdictions are also enhancing their offerings to increase their appeal. As a result, the UAE must continue to attract both locals and internationals by remaining competitive and forward-thinking. Dubai's ecosystem a magnet for global family offices With Dubai emerging as a premier destination for global wealth and family office services, Vishwajit Patil, senior executive officer (SEO) of Nuvama Private DIFC, believes the city's strategic location, efficient systems, and favorable regulatory environment are key drivers in attracting high-net-worth families from across the globe. Speaking at an early morning panel discussion, Patil highlighted the recent expansion of Nuvama Private into the UAE. 'We launched our operations in Dubai around August 2024, and it's been an incredibly exciting journey,' he said. 'Our management strategy reflects the growing importance of the region in serving global clients, especially in navigating financial strategies and tax-related challenges.' When evaluating relocation destinations, clients typically consider five key pillars: Geopolitical stability Healthcare and education infrastructure Cost of living and lifestyle Strategic location and connectivity Ease of business setup and residency options 'In all these aspects, Dubai stands out,' Patil stated. 'Whether it's the efficiency of the Golden Visa process, access to top-tier healthcare and education, or the agility of government systems — the UAE offers an unmatched level of service and speed.' UAE IPO outlook: 2025 and beyond An Initial Public Offering (IPO) occurs when a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time. This process marks a significant milestone for any business and involves multiple stakeholders including company leadership, regulatory authorities, investment bankers, lawyers, and both institutional and retail investors. A major development in the UAE capital markets is the emergence of IPO-focused investment funds. These funds allow retail investors to gain exposure to a broad portfolio of IPOs, rather than picking individual companies. 'IPO funds have become a powerful tool for investors,' Yogesh Khairajani, global market strategist, Century Financial explained. 'They're particularly useful in cases where IPOs are oversubscribed, which is quite common in the UAE. Through these funds, investors can still gain exposure to promising public listings.' Among the most notable initiatives is the Abu Dhabi IPO Fund, which has drawn considerable interest from both institutional and retail participants. 'The Abu Dhabi IPO Fund has made it much easier for investors to participate in a wide array of new listings,' said Khairajani. 'It reduces the risk of having to choose just one company to invest in. Instead, investors benefit from the fund manager's expertise in selecting high-potential IPOs, which in turn provides a more diversified and balanced investment strategy.' Family investment strategies undergoing a structural shift During a panel discussion titled ' How the World's Largest Shift in Capital is Reshaping Investment Strategies in the UAE and Beyond,' Yasmine Omari, head of wealth planning at Bank of Singapore, highlighted a significant transformation in how families are managing and deploying their capital. 'What I've noticed is a real evolution in how families are investing,' Omari said. 'We're not just talking about a generational transition; we're talking about a transformation in process, strategy, and mindset.' She pointed to a range of contributing factors, including increasing diversification across asset classes, growing sophistication, and a marked shift toward institutional-style investing. According to Omari, many families are moving beyond the traditional model of simply reinvesting profits from their operating businesses. Instead, they are using those businesses as platforms for broader investment activity. 'Some families have set up internal investment teams or even mini family-owned funds, complete with governance structures and dedicated professionals,' she noted. 'In certain cases, they've even spun off entirely separate businesses focused on investing or technology.' As these efforts scale, Omari emphasised the growing importance of structure and governance. The evolution is not only in capital deployment but also in decision-making dynamics. 'Whereas before, you might have had the founder and maybe one or two close relatives making decisions, now you have multiple generations and branches of the family participating,' she explained. 'That increases the need for clear communication, governance, and consensus-building.'

Mideast Stocks: Most Gulf markets gain on Iran-Israel truce
Mideast Stocks: Most Gulf markets gain on Iran-Israel truce

Zawya

time43 minutes ago

  • Zawya

Mideast Stocks: Most Gulf markets gain on Iran-Israel truce

Most stock markets in the Gulf edged higher on Wednesday, extending gains from previous sessions when they rose sharply following a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. The ceasefire brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump appeared to be holding on Wednesday, a day after both countries signalled that their air conflict had ended, at least for now. Saudi Arabia's benchmark index added 0.1% in choppy trade, helped by a 1% rise in Saudi National Bank, the country's biggest lender by assets. The recent rally was fuelled by reduced geopolitical tensions following the ceasefire, which encouraged investors to return to riskier assets, said George Pavel General Manager at Middle East. Oil prices recovered a little after sliding earlier this week, as investors assessed the stability of the ceasefire, while support also came from data that showed U.S. demand was relatively strong. Traders and analysts also saw some support from market expectations that the Federal Reserve could soon cut U.S. interest rates. The Fed's decision affects monetary policy in the Gulf where most currencies, including the Saudi riyal, are pegged to the U.S. dollar. Dubai's main share index added 0.4%, led by a 1.3% rise in top lender Emirates NBD. In Abu Dhabi, the index finished 0.2% higher. The Qatari index advanced 1.1%, boosted by a 1.8% gain in the Gulf's biggest lender Qatar National Bank. Outside the Gulf, Egypt's blue-chip index climbed 1.2%, hitting its highest since March 2024, with Commercial International Bank closing 1.3% higher. Egypt's prime minister said gas supplies would resume to factories on Friday after being halted in recent days because tensions in the Middle East led to a shortage, a cabinet statement said on Wednesday. SAUDI ARABIA up 0.1% to 10,974 Abu Dhabi rose 0.2% to 9,811 Dubai added 0.4% to 5,613 QATAR gained 1.1% to 10,644 EGYPT up 1.2% to 33,003 BAHRAIN was up 0.5% to 1,921 OMAN lost 0.6% to 4,514 KUWAIT added 0.7% to 8,963

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store