Saudia launches direct flights between Riyadh, Vienna to boost global connectivity
Riyadh: Saudia has inaugurated its first direct and scheduled flights from Riyadh to Vienna, the capital of Austria, according to a press release.
Launched in collaboration with the Air Connectivity Program (ACP), the strategic route aligns with Saudia's successful seasonal operations from Jeddah and supports the airline's international expansion efforts.
This move also backs the Saudi national carrier's commitment to fostering global connectivity and enhancing access to key international destinations.
The new route operates four times weekly from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh to Vienna International Airport.
Flights depart Riyadh under flight number SV153, with return flights from Vienna under SV152, scheduled on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
In line with the Saudi Vision 2030, Saudia continues to invest in its fleet and services to meet the growing demand for air travel. Its network spans more than 100 destinations across four continents.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Business
9 hours ago
- Gulf Business
Review: Why HP's OmniBook X marks the next-gen of business laptops
Image: Supplied Whether you're closing a deal from a café in DIFC, fielding investor calls from the back seat of a Hala or Uber cab, or editing an article or presentation on the flight to Riyadh — work today doesn't wait for the right setting. It moves with you, taps your shoulder mid-lunch, and expects a response even at 30,000 feet in the air or in the Metro. Enter the HP OmniBook X — a sleek, AI-powered business laptop. It's nimble, lightweight, and 'smart' enough to deliver your needs. For entrepreneurs building businesses between meetings, consultants flying city to city, or creatives managing back-to-back Zoom calls while the kids are home — this is a device that adapts as fluidly as you do. Ultra-portable, but ready for business At just 1.34 kg and only 14mm thin, the Its 14-inch 2.8K OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate offers razor-sharp visuals, rich colours, and an anti-glare coating — making it equally adept at handling high-stakes presentations or back-to-back Teams calls in tricky lighting. Bonus: the edge-to-edge panel makes the whole thing feel larger than it is. AI-first performance for the way you work now Under the hood, the device is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite X1E-78-100 — HP's first consumer PC to feature this 12-core processor, clocked at up to 3.4 GHz. It's paired with a neural processing unit (NPU) and GPU capable of delivering up to 70 trillion operations per second (TOPS) in combined AI performance, though HP lists 47 TOPS as the standard NPU output. That's serious on-device intelligence — and it makes a difference. Everything from real-time transcription, smart noise filtering, AI-assisted image editing, to Copilot+ features like Recall and Live Captions runs smoothly without calling out to the cloud. Running Windows 11 Home, the OmniBook X offers seamless access to Microsoft's latest AI experiences — enhanced by on-device performance, not just cloud processing. HP's first AI assistant is built in, offering contextual suggestions, performance tuning, and productivity tools that evolve with how you use the device. With up to 32GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB of SSD storage, the OmniBook X handles multitasking with ease — no stutter, no sweat. The integrated Qualcomm Adreno GPU supports light video editing and graphic work, and the system runs whisper-quiet thanks to its fanless design. Battery life that actually keeps up Forget carrying a charger everywhere 'just in case'. HP advertises up to 26‑28 hours of battery life, though real-world testing yields around 16–17 hours — still excellent, but more realistic, thanks to the power efficiency of the ARM-based Snapdragon chip and smart AI tuning. Whether you're powering through spreadsheets on the road or running back-to-back meetings, it's built to last a full workday — and more. And if you do need to plug in? HP Fast Charge takes you from 0 to 50 per cent in just 30 minutes, making it easy to top up between meetings or during a layover. Calls, sound, and the WFH upgrade you deserve Let's face it: audio and camera quality matter just as much as processing power when your office is a screen. The 5MP IR camera with auto-framing, AI noise reduction, and backlight adjustment means you'll look and sound sharp, even in low light or noisy cafes. Whether you're running a webinar, client pitch, or check-in with the team, the experience feels polished — no fiddling, no apologies. Poly Studio audio tuning with dual speakers ensures crystal‑clear sound, making remote conversations feel present and professional — even in noisy environments. HP Audio Boost further enhances volume and clarity, unplugged. Built-in security and connectivity For professionals handling sensitive data, HP's Wolf Security Suite offers enterprise-grade protection out of the box — isolating threats before they reach your system. Windows Hello via IR facial recognition and a fingerprint sensor makes logging in quick, seamless, and secure. And if you opt for the HP SureView Reflect privacy screen, you'll have an extra shield against wandering eyes on planes or in cafés. The Snapdragon‑powered OmniBook X is well‑equipped for connectivity, featuring two USB‑C ports (one at 40 Gbps, one at 10 Gbps), a USB‑A port, and a 3.5 mm audio jack. It supports Wi‑Fi 7 via the FastConnect 7800 chipset. What about gamers? While this isn't a dedicated gaming laptop, casual gamers can enjoy titles like Fortnite , Minecraft , or Valorant on low-to-medium settings with surprisingly good results thanks to the Adreno GPU and high refresh OLED screen. Think of it as a bonus feature, not a selling point — and one that adds more versatility to an already capable machine. Verdict: Smart, swift, adaptable and dependable The HP OmniBook X is what happens when sleek design, intelligent computing, and real-world mobility meet. It's not just built for business. It's built for people who move fast, think faster, and need a device that understands both. Another bonus: The HP OmniBook X PCs are designed using recycled metals and post-consumer recycled plastics. Read:
Khaleej Times
11 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
How Dubai is becoming a key player in the ultra-luxe cruise boom
Once seen as the domain of retired couples enjoying their golden years playing bingo and card games, cruising is seeing a revival as it is being thrust into the world of luxury travel. Major companies are investing in state-of-the-art new ships while global travel players, such as Virgin, are entering the market, and luxury hotel brands, such as Ritz-Carlton, Aman and Four Seasons, are joining the movement. Cruise companies are responding to the gastronomy boom and offering the latest food trends, fine-tuning fitness and wellness travel, and responding to the demand for more sustainable travel, all while offering an increasing number of remote destinations off the more well-trodden cruise routes. Rebecca Ransom, MEA business development manager at Norwegian Cruise Line, said there is huge potential for growth in the luxury sector as cruising still accounts for just 2.7 per cent of the total travel market, according to the Cruise Lines International Association's 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report. A recent Bloomberg report showed that the ultra-luxury cruise market is growing 2.5 times faster than the broader cruise industry, with projections estimating 1.5 million luxury cruisers by 2028. 'At Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), we're seeing similar patterns,' Ransom told LUXE. 'High-net-worth markets, such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, have shown rapid and stable post-pandemic recovery, with strong growth in both booking volume and revenue. In contrast, markets with lower purchasing power have experienced a more gradual rebound.' To meet this rising demand, many cruise and hospitality brands are expanding their luxury offerings or launching entirely new luxury lines, including NCL. 'We introduced The Haven by Norwegian™ — our exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept — aboard the Norwegian Epic in 2011. This private enclave, accessible only by keycard, is designed for discerning travellers seeking a refined and secluded experience at sea.' The Haven features spacious, elegantly appointed suites, some accommodating up to eight guests, 24-hour butler and concierge services, a private sundeck and restaurant, and priority access to dining, entertainment and shore excursions. Available on just 15 NCL ships, it offers luxury cruising across Europe, Alaska and the Caribbean. It is time for an industry shake-up, she admits. 'In the eyes of many travellers, who are often times not very familiar with the industry, cruising is still considered very dusty and formal, resembling a Titanic-like experience with Captain's dinners, strict dress codes as well as promenades on the sun deck. 'There are still cruise lines that strive to deliver this kind of cruise experience, but there are also many cruise lines offering a more modern and relaxed experience. Even in the luxury segment.' Ransom says that the UAE, and Dubai in particular, is emerging as a key player in the global luxury cruise market. 'With its world-class port infrastructure, exceptional air connectivity, and reputation as a premier luxury destination, Dubai serves both as a strategic embarkation point and a marquee port of call for premium cruise itineraries across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa,' she said. 'While our presence in Dubai has so far been limited to select turnaround operations and port calls, we see significant opportunity to expand our deployment in the region. As demand for cruising continues to grow globally, we are actively exploring ways to enhance our footprint in the Gulf.' Sapna Aidasani, marketing director at Pluto Travels, says Covid had a huge impact on the industry, seeing smaller, more intimate cruises forging ahead with a focus on smaller yachts and boutique cruises. She said offerings have also diversified with many cruises now focusing on detox, mindfulness and wellness retreats onboard, and upgraded connectivity seeing a rise in longer itineraries allowing people to work while they cruise, as trends show the rise of high-net-worth travellers blending business and leisure travel. 'Luxury at sea has reached an entirely new level,' she said. 'With iconic five-star brands, like Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons, entering the cruise industry, elegance now sails across oceans. These aren't just cruises — they're floating luxury hotels offering the same signature experiences and personalised service their guests expect on land.' The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has retractable marine platforms located at the aft of the yacht that serve as a private, ocean-level lounge that blurs the line between the vessel and the sea. 'It's not just a marina; it's a floating beach club designed to deliver an intimate, ocean-front luxury experience that rivals any private island,' added Aidasani. A nine-day cruise in the Mediterranean or Northern Europe and Baltic this summer departing from European ports will set travellers back at least $15,400. The brand's third superyacht, Luminara, which launches this summer, will have space for 452 passengers with experiences including 'diamond dust' facials. A 13-day African itinerary, starting from Cape Town, will cost travellers from $18,600, and a 14-night Asian tour from Hong Kong starts at $21,400. There is no end to the luxury offerings being created as hotels now battle for the sea. The 95-suite Four Seasons 1, opening next January with weeklong sailings to the likes of Antigua costing over $32,500 per suite, will go up to as much as $330,000 for the glass-enclosed, 10,000-square-foot penthouse for a week. And next summer, the Orient Express will launch its 220-meter, 54-suite vessel with a Guerlain spa, water sports and food by French Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno. The cost of a three-night cruise around the Côte d'Azur will be $19,075 per cabin. Instead of focusing on the older generation in their retirement years, cruising has also varied its offerings in a way that has transformed its reach. From cruise weddings to wellness cruises, she says that networking events for high level business communities are also jumping aboard, while it is also appealing to the party crowd with the likes of Greek island hopping among the favourites. Dubai is benefiting from this growing luxury cruise market once the European season winds down between October and March, welcoming some of the world's top cruise liners during this period, with routes covering the UAE, Oman, and Qatar. Cruises range from short two-day sailings to immersive five to six day journeys, making them incredibly popular among travellers from Central Asia. 'In short, the luxury cruise market is not just docking in Dubai, it's investing in it,' Aidasani added. 'One of the most exclusive experiences for Dubai's elite is the luxury cruise route from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and onwards to Sir Bani Yas Island, a hidden gem. This island offers a unique mix of African-style wildlife safaris, ultra-luxury beach resorts, and private suite villas, all in one destination. These two-day cruises are redefining high-end leisure travel within the UAE, drawing a growing luxury footfall to the country's undiscovered coastal treasures.' Aleksei Makarov, co-founder of Octanta Maritime Academy, which has just opened a school in Dubai, said cruising today is not what it was a decade ago. 'The industry has undergone a quiet revolution, moving from mass tourism to highly curated, high-end travel. Guests now board ships for transformative experiences. Yacht-like vessels, boutique expedition cruises, and ultra-luxury riverboats have emerged as floating sanctuaries. With brands like Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons entering the space, the message is clear: cruising is no longer just a product — it's a lifestyle.' He told LUXE that the pandemic was a reset. 'Travellers began to seek privacy, safety, and meaning. Cruising, in its new form, offers all three. At the same time, younger generations have entered the space, demanding modern design, sustainability, and authenticity. The industry responded by reimagining the product: smaller ships, immersive itineraries, smarter tech, and elevated service standards.'
Arabian Business
12 hours ago
- Arabian Business
Connecting beyond boundaries
The 17th Real Estate Development Summit – Saudi Arabia: Europe Edition The 17th Real Estate Development Summit (REDS), Europe Edition, is set to take place on 25 to 26 June 2025 at the Lisbon Congress Centre, Rio Pavilion, Portugal. Organized by GBB Venture, this invite-only summit brings together decision-makers from across the globe, focusing on innovation, strategic partnerships, and investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia's evolving real estate sector. A Visionary Behind the Summit Ravi Kumar Chandran, Founder and Managing Director of GBB Events, is a seasoned event strategist with a passion for curating business ecosystems where meaningful partnerships flourish. With a rich legacy in creating industry-specific platforms, Ravi has positioned REDS as a must-attend summit for real estate influencers seeking to unlock the Middle East's potential, especially Saudi Arabia's. What to Expect This edition promises to take the focused platform a notch higher with over 120 international solution providers, over 200 decision makers representing some of the top projects in Saudi Arabia and a stellar speaker line-up addressing some of the most exciting subjects and creative ideas. Ron Bakker, Founding Partner – PLP Architecture will present EDGE, Amsterdam a unique project intelligently connecting people, creating a truly inspiring workplace. Ideas that can change the way greenery can contribute to real estate projects will be presented by Pablo Vidarte, CEO – BIOO. While Dott. Geol. Tetyana Kovalenko – CEO, Elite Stone Group will share how marble paves the way for sustainable building in Saudi Arabia and ME. 2 of Saudi Arabia's notable real estate firms, OSUS and Rafal Real Estate Development Company will both share key presentations highlighting the industry growth, some key projects and the way forward. Ali Al Ghamdi, Transformation Consultant will represent OSUS while Elias Abousamra, CEO will represent Rafal and share the priorities shaping the industry landscape over the next 18 months. Harmen de Jong, Regional Partner Head of Consulting at Knight Frank will take the stage to present some very interesting facts and stats on Saudi Arabia's key market indicators, pipeline projects and trends in the industry. A panel of project heads and experts then delves into flexibility and adaptability of design and development process to deliver extraordinary projects defining the future of the Kingdom. This panel moderated by Daniel O'Brien, Director of Development at Qiddiya will host Paul Fraser, Director – Cities & Communities KSA – AtkinsRealis, Sanjay Tanwani – Regional Director, AECOM and B. Attiyah – CEO, Clear Holding Co. Further shedding light on some iconic projects are a set of most notable design leaders: Maximilian Zielinski – Senior Partner, Foster + Partners, Viggo Haremst – Partner & Design Director, Henning Larsen, Mark Kennedy – Head of Design, Magna – NEOM who will individually share their take on the design process of these futuristic projects. Christos Passas, Director – Zaha Hadid Architects will also be sharing recent work in sustainable high-rise design. Finally, not to miss the extraordinary mega events and the future outlook of real estate and tourism industries in the Kingdom, Eng. Abdulaziz Al Zamil, CBDO – Tatweer, Dr. Adil Al-Qusadi, Advisor on Strategic Partnerships and International Cooperation – Saudi Arabia, Dr. Bassam Boodai – Board Member, Al Mozaini Real Estate and Ahmed Abas – Director, MENA Sports Advisory, EY Parthenon will share their expert opinions on the subject moderated by Tala Michel Issa, Chief Reporter, Arabian Business. Fun & Networking Sessions: While there's much learning and knowledge sharing anticipated at the summit, there's also a bit of fun and quality networking in the process. A quick Energizing Session With Technogym gives time to stretch and relax. The highlight dinner is straight out of a storybook. Beginning with a beautiful coastal drive to the venue Arriba, the dinner itself is planned with a breath-taking view of the sea to one side and a fort on the other, it is a great place and time to let loose, enjoy and network in the amazingly charming Portuguese ambience. Furthermore, the pre-arranged face-to-face meetings with the decision makers provide for undeterred attention to business networking where every individual requirement is pre-matched to ensure a high-success rate to all the meetings. This signature offering by GBB is a time-tested method to bring together people who mean business and can help build long-term partnerships. The summit also ends with a delegate-only networking session allowing the attendees yet more focused time to foster business relationships. Why Attend? Gain first-hand insights into Saudi Arabia's giga and mega projects Meet 200+ top owners, developers, operators, architects, designers and 120 global solution providers Explore real-time business opportunities through pre-scheduled meetings Experience value for time through a focused decision-makers only platform With a proven track record of driving results and forging connections, REDS continues to be a leading summit at the intersection of vision, innovation, and opportunity.a leading summit at the intersection of vision, innovation, and opportunity. For more details, visit:
