Riyadh Air enters key deals covering 125 countries
Saudi Arabia - Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's new national airline, has signed 11 agreements with strategic partners to further innovate the air travel experience, at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, UAE.
The partnerships are across a range of sales and distribution providers in over 125 countries. The completion of the memoranda of understanding (MoU) will enable Riyadh Air to boost its brand visibility while promoting its diverse range of flight services and products.
'These agreements reinforce Riyadh Air's determination to be a truly global airline and push the boundaries of travel for our guests,' said Osamah Alnuaiser – SVP, Marketing and Corporate Communications at Riyadh Air.
'Everyone wants to be a part of the Riyadh Air story, and we are carefully selecting companies and entities as partners that will join us on our journey towards our maiden flight and beyond.'
The deals are a strategic move by the airline aimed at significantly enhancing the carrier's offerings. The partnerships are with a variety of renowned organisations, including DNATA, Discover the World Momentum, Aviareps, and Satguru Representation Services.
The MoUs are designed to foster sustainable, prosperous, and mutually beneficial relationships that deliver exceptional travel experiences for customers in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Australasia, and Africa. By collaborating with these industry leaders, Riyadh Air aims to solidify its presence in international markets and ensure travellers enjoy Saudi Arabia's exceptional hospitality, Riyadh Air said.
An example of this is Riyadh Air's partnership with leading customer loyalty program, Loyalty Juggernaut. Under the deal, Juggernaut's next-generation program will deliver a personalised, seamless, and rewarding experience for travellers worldwide. The system is powered by the company's cloud-native GRAVTY platform and will feature real-time engagement, AI-driven personalization, expanded partnerships, dynamic earn and redemption opportunities, and a seamless mobile-first experience.
Riyadh Air has also partnered with some of the world's leading travel technology distributors during ATM. Agreements have been signed with Amadeus, Sabre, TPConnects, Verteil Technologies and Air Retailer. These technologies will enhance the airline's ability to showcase and distribute scalable modern retailing solutions. These partnerships will highlight dynamic pricing, and personalized travel offers from different global business touchpoints as part of the airline's digital vision and modern distribution strategy.
Riyadh Air is fully embracing the potential of these technologies to leverage tech solutions to create an innovative approach to content distribution. By taking this approach, Riyadh Air will be able to simplify the process for a global network of travel agents, corporate buyers, and customers, allowing them to access and sell all products and services seamlessly, thereby breaking away from the limitations of traditional channels, the airline said.
"By taking a win-win approach, Riyadh Air ensures that discerning customers can experience unparalleled Saudi hospitality when onboard, complemented by a tailored, real-time travel experience," it added. - TradeArabia News Service
Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Khaleej Times
UAE: How ‘multi-country itineraries' are driving travel to Middle East
Travellers are now increasingly seeking 'multi-country itineraries' where they can experience both the region's rich traditions and its modern developments. This trend is being observed in light of the newly released ATM Travel Trends Report 2025, compiled by Tourism Economics for Arabian Travel Market (ATM). The report forecasts that tourism spending in the Middle East will reach nearly US$350 billion by 2030 — a 50 per cent increase from 2024 levels. Travel expenditure in the region is expected to exceed 2019 levels by 54 per cent this year alone, with an anticipated annual growth rate of over 7 per cent between 2025 and 2030. The report underlined several key trends reshaping the sector: the surge in business and luxury travel, the boom in regional sports tourism, and a marked shift toward premium, experience-based travel. Curated experiences 'Travellers are prioritising unique, curated experiences — be it luxury stays, cultural immersions, or adventure activities — over traditional itineraries, and we're tailoring our packages to meet this growing preference,' said Raheesh Babu, COO of The UAE remains a standout destination, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi leading in luxury, entertainment, and family experiences. Meanwhile, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah are gaining popularity for their nature-driven and wellness getaways. In Saudi Arabia, cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla are attracting premium and business travelers through a mix of modern hospitality and heritage tourism, while Oman's Muscat and Salalah and Qatar's Doha are also seeing strong demand thanks to scenic beauty, luxury infrastructure, and cultural offerings. 'Dubai remains a top choice, particularly for its blend of urban luxury, family attractions, and beach resorts,' said Shilpa Mahtani, Co-founder and Managing Director of bnbme holiday homes by Hoteliers. 'Abu Dhabi is gaining traction among culture-focused travelers due to Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan, and eco-resorts on Saadiyat Island. Saudi Arabia is on the rise and we are seeing that as a huge growing tourism market. Projects like AlUla, NEOM, and the Red Sea Project are attracting adventurous and heritage-driven travelers.' Mahtani noted that Vision 2030 is reshaping interest across the region. 'We now include accommodation in Saudi destinations like Riyadh, which entails our concierge services and travel planning. The UAE's diversification push means more unique offerings in places like Hatta, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, which we recommend for outdoor and heritage-rich escapes. We are advising clients to explore multi-country itineraries that showcase both traditional and futuristic aspects of the Middle East.' Expanding air connectivity Air connectivity is also set to expand dramatically. The region's four largest carriers — Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Saudia — have collectively ordered nearly 780 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus, underscoring the Middle East's ambition to become a global aviation hub. 'Regional travel trends are strongly shaping offerings. We're actively promoting emerging destinations such as AlUla, Red Sea, Aseer, Riyadh, Doha and Salalah, and curating packages that align with cultural, adventure, and heritage tourism,' added Babu. 'These national strategies are expanding demand beyond traditional hubs, and we're adapting our recommendations to match traveler interest,' he added. As per the report, inbound tourism to the Middle East is projected to grow 13 per cent annually through 2030, while outbound business travel is expected to rise by 9 per cent per year. European countries account for half of all leisure travel to the region, with India and the UK leading as top inbound markets, followed by China, which is expected to see a 130 per cent surge in leisure spending by 2030. Additionally, tourism nights from Asia Pacific and African visitors are expected to more than double. 'Travellers drawn to the Middle East tend to spend more on travel overall, nearly 60 per cent habitually spending on luxury experiences while travelling, compared to under 40 per cent among travellers who favour other destinations,' said Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market. With 85 per cent of the region's tourism growth driven by international visitors, demand for high-end ground transport is also climbing. The chauffeur-driven transport sector anticipates a 25–30 per cent rise in airport transfer bookings, especially during holiday and festive seasons. 'We're witnessing a sharp surge in bookings for in-bound airport transfers and intercity travels,' said Soham Shah, Founder and CEO of SelfDrive Mobility. 'Travellers are increasingly opting for premium, professionally managed transport that offers comfort, reliability, and a hassle-free experience across the Emirates.'
Zawya
3 days ago
- Zawya
Middle East tourism spend to jump 50% to $350bln by 2030
The total tourism spend in the Middle East by 2030 will be 50% higher than in 2024, generating expenditure of nearly $350 billion, according to A new report compiled by Tourism Economics on behalf of Arabian Travel Market (ATM). The ATM Travel Trends Report 2025 reveals insights into the trends and transformations redefining the travel sector in the Middle East and worldwide, including the surge of business travel, the growth of the luxury segment, and the boom in regional sports tourism. The report highlights exceptional growth in Middle East travel spending, projected to exceed 2019 levels by 54% this year and anticipates an annual growth rate of over 7% from 2025 to 2030. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: 'The report's findings confirm that travel growth in the Middle East is incredibly strong, with annual growth averaging more than 7 per cent through 2030. Bold national visions, game-changing developments, and enhanced connectivity are some of the key factors driving this momentum.' Underscoring the Middle East's strong position in global tourism, inbound travel from outside the region is set to grow by 13 per cent annually up to 2030 and outbound business travel forecast to surge at 9 per cent per year. European source markets make up 50% of all leisure travel to the Middle East, with India and the United Kingdom the top two inbound international leisure source markets. China is also a critical market, ranking third by value with leisure spend expected to increase by 130% by 2030. Furthermore, tourism nights by visitors from Asia Pacific and Africa, are expected to increase by over 100% between now and 2030. For outbound travel, Saudi Arabia and Egypt dominate regional flows, while Thailand and the United Kingdom lead as preferred long-haul destinations. The four largest airlines in the region – Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways and Saudia – have placed nearly 780 aircraft orders with Boeing and Airbus, representing major expansions to their existing fleets. This significant investment underscores the region's strategic focus on becoming a global aviation hub and meeting rising passenger demand over the coming decade. The Middle East's rise as a global hub for business events is another key highlight of the report, which states that spending on Middle East business travel will grow 1.5 times faster than the global average through to 2030. The region's strategic location at the centre of Asia, Africa, and Europe supports business and leisure travel, with the latter on a particularly strong trajectory for growth. The sector plays a vital role in developing the region's reputation for hosting major events. It is expected to experience the second-fastest rate of business travel growth among all global regions, underscoring the increased potential for combining business and leisure travel, or 'bleisure'. Curtis commented: 'At ATM 2025, we recognised the industry's hunger for innovation in travel technology as well as the rising demand for business travel across the region. In response, we launched two dynamic new zones, IBTM@ATM and the Innovation Zone, designed to empower our growing audience to shape the future of travel with the speed and scale our exciting industry demands.' The region is also witnessing unprecedented growth in luxury and lifestyle tourism, attracting a new generation of high-net-worth travellers, drawn to exceptional Middle East hospitality, curated experiences and premium cultural events. According to the report global spending on luxury leisure hospitality is expected to continue growing briskly reaching over US$390 billion by 2028. 'Travellers drawn to the Middle East tend to spend more on travel overall, nearly 60% habitually spending on luxury experiences while travelling compared to under 40% among travellers who favour other destinations,' added Curtis. Of the more than 170 luxury hotel properties in the Middle East, nearly 100 are situated Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with 22 currently in development. With several luxury properties in the pipeline among Saudi Arabia's Giga projects, the region will continue to serve as a preferred destination for luxury and leisure travellers. Following in the footsteps of the Qatar 2022 World Cup and Dubai Expo 2020, the Middle East region has a proven track record for successfully hosting high-profile entertainment and sports events. According to the ATM Travel Trends report, the strong appetite for sports tourism in the region will lead to a potential growth rate of 63% in the coming years, with the 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia set to continue this momentum. According to the report, golf, motorsports, football, cycling, and esports are all benefiting from heightened visibility and investment in the region. This surge in sporting and entertainment events is significantly boosting the travel industry, driving increased demand for hotel stays, flights, and related services, creating a ripple effect that supports broader tourism growth. ATM is the leading international travel and tourism event held annually in Dubai. It plays a vital role in shaping the future of global travel. Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the 2025 edition welcomed over 55,000 industry professionals from 166 countries, achieving year-on-year growth of 16%. The next edition will take place from May 4-7, 2026. - Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Arabian Business
3 days ago
- Arabian Business
Middle East tourism spend to hit $350bn by 2030 amid luxury, sports, and business travel boom
Middle East tourism spending is projected to surge by 50 per cent to reach $350bn by 2030, according to the new ATM Travel Trends Report 2025, compiled by Tourism Economics for Arabian Travel Market (ATM). The report highlights the region's exceptional post-pandemic rebound and long-term growth potential, driven by luxury travel, business events, and sports tourism. Spending on tourism across the Middle East is already on track to exceed pre-pandemic levels by 54 per cent this year. Middle East tourism spending From 2025 to 2030, the market is expected to grow at more than 7 per cent annually. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: 'The report's findings confirm that travel growth in the Middle East is incredibly strong, with annual growth averaging more than 7 per cent through 2030. 'Bold national visions, game-changing developments, and enhanced connectivity are some of the key factors driving this momentum.' Key insights from the report include: Inbound travel to the Middle East is set to grow 13 per cent annually, with India, the UK, and China among the top source markets Chinese leisure spending alone is forecast to grow 130 per cent by 2030 Tourism nights from Asia Pacific and Africa will more than double Business travel in the region is expected to grow 1.5 times faster than the global average, positioning the Middle East as a top global 'bleisure' hub Luxury travel is booming, with nearly 60 per cent of visitors choosing premium experiences. Over 170 luxury hotels already operate in the region, with dozens more in development in the UAE and Saudi Arabia Sports tourism is forecast to grow 63 per cent, fuelled by major events such as the 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia and a surge in interest in motorsports, golf, cycling, and esports Airlines are scaling up rapidly to meet demand: Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, and Saudia have placed nearly 780 new aircraft orders with Boeing and Airbus, solidifying the region's role as a global aviation hub As the Middle East continues to attract high-spending tourists and host world-class events, it is cementing its position as one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic tourism regions on the planet.
