Abu Dhabi’s Stopover Programme, a flagship initiative jointly led by Etihad Airways and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has achieved unprecedented success, setting new benchmarks for visitor numbers, bookings, and economic impact. In the first four months of 2025, the programme recorded 25,000 bookings-a remarkable 47% increase compared to the same period in 2024-while visitor arrivals surged to 44,000, marking a 76% rise over the previous year.

This rapid growth builds on the momentum of 2024, when Abu Dhabi welcomed 85,000 international stopover guests, up from just 12,000 in 2023. Etihad Airways now projects that more than 130,000 stopover guests will visit the Emirate in 2025, highlighting the programme’s accelerating popularity and its ability to attract incremental visitors at an impressive rate.

The Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme is designed to encourage transit passengers to extend their layovers and experience the city’s world-class attractions, luxurious hotels, and vibrant cultural scene. Available exclusively to Etihad Airways passengers, the programme allows travellers to seamlessly add a one- or two-night complimentary hotel stay at premier properties across the city during the online booking process.

The introduction of the Abu Dhabi Pass has further enhanced the experience, offering practical benefits and exclusive discounts at leading attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues. These features make it easier and more appealing for travellers to explore the Emirate’s diverse offerings, from iconic landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi to thrilling theme parks on Yas Island and serene desert landscapes.

The programme’s success is also driven by its broad international appeal, attracting travellers from key markets such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, India, Japan, and South Korea. Many visitors who initially stopover for a short stay are now returning for longer dedicated holidays, drawn by Abu Dhabi’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. The average length of stay for stopover visitors has increased, with travellers exploring more attractions and spending more time in the Emirate.

This trend not only enriches the visitor experience but also delivers a substantial economic boost to Abu Dhabi, supporting the objectives of the city’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors, create 178,000 new jobs in the tourism sector, and contribute AED 90 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP by 2030.

Industry experts attribute the programme’s popularity to its seamless booking process, strategic partnerships, and the exceptional value it offers through complimentary hotel stays and curated experiences. The collaboration between Etihad Airways and DCT Abu Dhabi has been instrumental in positioning Abu Dhabi as a premier stopover destination, leveraging the airline’s global network and the city’s world-class infrastructure.

This partnership has also fostered innovation in the travel sector, setting new standards for customer experience and destination marketing.

Looking ahead, both organizations have outlined ambitious plans to further enhance the programme, including new partnerships, tailored packages, and expanded offerings. These initiatives are expected to drive continued growth and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global tourism destination. The Stopover Programme is not only transforming the way travellers experience the Emirate but also contributing significantly to the city’s long-term economic and cultural development.

As Abu Dhabi continues to innovate and invest in its tourism sector, the Stopover Programme stands as a shining example of how collaboration between airlines and tourism authorities can create win-win outcomes for travellers, businesses, and the local community. With its record-breaking success, the programme is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of tourism in Abu Dhabi and beyond.

Air India, the sole Indian carrier operating direct flights between Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, has extended the suspension of its Tel Aviv route until May 25, 2025. This decision follows a Houthi missile attack near Ben Gurion Airport on May 4, which forced an Air India flight from Delhi to Tel Aviv to divert to Abu Dhabi mid-journey for safety reasons.

 Initially, the suspension was set to last only until May 6 and then extended to May 8. However, escalating regional tensions and ongoing security concerns have prompted the airline to prolong the halt to ensure passenger and crew safety. Air India announced on social media that affected passengers with valid tickets for travel up to May 25 will be offered a one-time waiver on rescheduling fees or full refunds, reflecting a customer-centric approach amid uncertainty.

 The suspension impacts approximately 1,500 weekly seats, disrupting vital connectivity between India and Israel, a corridor significant for trade and diaspora links. Passengers are advised to explore alternative routes via Middle Eastern hubs like Dubai or Istanbul, operated by carriers such as Emirates and Turkish Airlines, though these options add several hours to travel time.

 This move aligns with safety advisories from India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation and follows similar temporary suspensions by other international airlines, including Lufthansa and British Airways, due to the volatile security situation around Tel Aviv. The Houthi missile attack, part of a broader campaign in support of Palestinians, has heightened aviation risks in the region, with Ben Gurion Airport facing intermittent threats.

 Operationally, Air India is reallocating its Airbus A320neo aircraft from the Tel Aviv route to other high-demand domestic and international sectors, helping to mitigate financial losses amid regional instability. The airline’s cautious extension of the suspension underscores its commitment to safety while preparing for a gradual market recovery once conditions stabilize.

 Passengers seeking assistance can contact Air India’s customer service or visit the airline’s website for updates and rebooking options. The situation remains fluid, and travelers are encouraged to monitor official channels closely.

 This comprehensive update reflects the latest developments on Air India’s Tel Aviv flight suspension due to security concerns following the missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport.

Vietnam Airlines has triumphantly resumed its direct flight service between Hanoi and Moscow on May 8, 2025, ending a three-year hiatus. The inaugural flight VN63 departed Noi Bai International Airport at 9:45 a.m. and landed at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo International Airport at 3:40 p.m. local time, carrying 254 passengers at full capacity. To celebrate this milestone, all passengers received commemorative gifts from the national flag carrier.

Initially, Vietnam Airlines will operate two weekly flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays using the modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, renowned for its Skytrax 4-star comfort on the nearly nine-hour journey. Starting July 2026, the airline plans to increase frequency to three flights per week to accommodate growing travel demand between Vietnam and Russia.

 
Russia remains a vital tourism market for Vietnam. In 2024, over 232,000 Russian visitors traveled to Vietnam-an 85% increase from the previous year. Early 2025 figures show a 204% surge in Russian tourists compared to 2024, underscoring the importance of this restored air link. The direct flights provide convenient access not only between Hanoi and Moscow but also onward connections across Southeast Asia and Europe. Favorable visa policies, such as Vietnam’s 45-day visa exemption for Russian citizens and Russia’s expedited electronic visa for Vietnamese nationals, are expected to further boost bilateral tourism and business exchanges in 2025.

 
Vietnam Airlines’ CEO Le Hong Ha highlighted that the relaunch of this route symbolizes a strengthened partnership and enhanced connectivity between the two nations. The airline, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025, is also restoring 15 international routes to key destinations including Italy, India, and the UAE, reflecting its commitment to expanding global reach.

 
This resumption marks a new chapter in Vietnam-Russia ties, making travel smoother and fostering deeper cultural and economic connections.
 
 

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, is taking flight into a new era of global connectivity. Headquartered in Jeddah and operating from its twin hubs at King Abdulaziz International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudia has rapidly grown from a regional player to a powerhouse on the world stage. In 2025, the airline is not just expanding-it’s soaring, with a bold vision to connect the Kingdom to 250 destinations by 2030.

A Surge in International Reach

This year, Saudia has announced the addition of more than ten new destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, including Vienna, Venice, Larnaca, Athens, Heraklion, Nice, Malaga, Bali, Antalya, El Alamein, and Salalah. The move comes on the heels of a 16% surge in international passenger numbers last year, underscoring the airline’s growing appeal and the Kingdom’s emergence as a global travel hub.

Director General Ibrahim Al-Omar emphasized Saudia’s commitment to excellence, stating, “Our destination selection is based on comprehensive feasibility studies and guest preferences. We are committed to providing our international guests with exceptional travel experiences that combine comfort, efficiency, and authentic Saudi hospitality”.

Busiest International Routes: The Top 10 in 2025

Saudia’s network is as diverse as its ambitions. Here are the airline’s busiest international routes, ranked by weekly seat capacity :

• Jeddah–Cairo: The busiest corridor, with 63 weekly flights and nearly 19,000 seats, serving business, tourism, and a large Egyptian expatriate community.

• Riyadh–Dubai: Eight daily flights make this route a vital link for business and leisure, with over 11,800 weekly seats.

• Dubai–Jeddah: A key air bridge with 7 daily flights, supporting religious, business, and leisure travel.

• Riyadh–London Heathrow: The flagship long-haul route, operated exclusively by Boeing 777-300ERs, connecting Saudi Arabia to the UK’s capital with 8,734 seats weekly.

• Riyadh–Cairo: Four daily flights underline strong ties between the two capitals.

• Dhaka–Jeddah: Serving the Bangladeshi expatriate community and pilgrims, with 20 weekly flights.

• Jeddah–Jakarta: A crucial religious and cultural corridor, especially during Hajj and Ramadan.

• London Heathrow–Jeddah: Sixteen weekly Dreamliner flights enhance links to Europe.

• Jeddah–Casablanca: Strengthening ties with Morocco, supporting both tourism and business.

• Kuala Lumpur–Jeddah: A popular route for Umrah and leisure, operated by the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

Fleet and Future Ambitions

To support its explosive growth, Saudia operates a modern fleet of 159 aircraft, with plans for 128 more to join by 2030. The airline’s daily operations now exceed 530 flights, and its SkyTeam alliance membership ensures seamless global connections.

Vision 2030: Connecting the Kingdom to the World

Saudia’s expansion is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a leading global travel and business hub. As new routes open and the fleet grows, Saudia is not just keeping pace with global demand-it’s setting the standard for the region and beyond.

Bottom Line:
From bustling regional routes to far-reaching intercontinental flights, Saudia’s sky-high ambitions are redefining what it means to connect Saudi Arabia with the world. With a record-breaking network, a modern fleet, and a relentless focus on guest experience, Saudia’s journey is just beginning.

Etihad Airways has announced the revival of select flights to Pakistan, coinciding with a recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. This decision marks a significant development following a period of increased tensions that led to the temporary suspension of air travel in the region. The Pakistan Airports Authority has confirmed that all airports are now fully operational, allowing airlines to resume normal flight operations.

Effective May 11, 2025, Etihad will operate several daytime flights, including routes from Abu Dhabi to major cities such as Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. However, some evening flights scheduled for the same day have been canceled due to ongoing regional uncertainties. The airline intends to restore its full flight schedule to Pakistan by May 12, subject to further developments.

This resumption is a vital step toward reestablishing air travel between the UAE and Pakistan, benefiting both tourism and business sectors. The ceasefire, achieved through diplomatic negotiations, is viewed as a hopeful yet fragile improvement, especially as tensions persist in certain areas, notably Kashmir.

Etihad Airways has reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety and is actively monitoring the situation in collaboration with relevant authorities. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about their flights, as conditions continue to evolve.

Overall, this move not only signals a positive shift in diplomatic relations but also aims to mitigate the disruptions experienced by travelers and the aviation industry in the region.

A former Ryanair pilot is at the center of a major drugs scandal after being charged with possessing more than €10 million worth of cannabis, sending shockwaves through Ireland’s aviation and legal circles.

Brendan O’Meara, 62, who recently resigned from Ryanair, appeared before a special sitting of Ennis District Court on Saturday after gardaí seized two large pallets of cannabis at his Meelick, Co Clare home on May 7. The street value of the haul is one of the largest in recent Irish criminal history.

O’Meara faces two serious charges under the Misuse of Drugs Act: possession of cannabis for sale or supply, which carries a potential life sentence, and simple possession. Judge Marie Keane described the quantity as “enormous” and, citing the gravity of the charges, refused bail after hearing gardaí objections. Officers argued O’Meara posed a significant flight risk due to alleged international criminal connections and his recent plans to relocate to the United States.

The court heard that O’Meara had intended to move abroad to care for his brother, who has Parkinson’s disease, but gardaí insisted that if released, he could attempt to abscond. The former pilot, supported in court by his wife and relatives, was remanded to Limerick Prison and is scheduled to reappear via video link on May 14.

The case has sparked debate about airline personnel vetting and the broader implications for Ireland’s legal system, with legal analysts predicting further investigation into possible international links behind the trafficking operation. As the high-profile case unfolds, both Ryanair and the Irish courts face growing scrutiny over how such a dramatic fall from grace could occur within the cockpit and beyond.