Jeddah, a bustling city on Saudi Arabia's west coast, is renowned for its vibrant shopping scene. From modern malls filled with international brands to traditional souks brimming with local crafts, the city offers a diverse shopping experience that appeals to all tastes. Whether you're looking for the latest fashion, unique souvenirs, or delicious local delicacies, Jeddah is a shopper's paradise.

Al Balad Market

• Location: Al Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Balad, a captivating area where historic homes have been transformed into vibrant art galleries and specialty cafes. As you wander through this ancient district, admire the stunning architecture featuring the iconic wooden Rawashins. Al Balad combines historical charm with modern conveniences, located just twenty minutes from top shopping centers, international restaurants, and the thrilling STC Formula 1 Saudi Grand Prix.

Al Khayyat Center

• Location: Near AlNuwat Roundabout, Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Street, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Al Khayyat Center is a premier shopping destination located near the AlNuwat roundabout on Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Street. Known for its collection of high-end fashion and luxury jewelry brands, it is conveniently situated just six minutes from the Ritz Carlton Hotel and seven minutes from Alhamra Cornish.

Shopping Experience

The center features two sections: one dedicated to prestigious global brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Prada, and another for jewelry enthusiasts with names such as Louis Vuitton and Dior. Footwear and handbag selections include Tod’s and Burberry.

Beauty and Wellness

For relaxation and pampering, visit the luxurious salon "Malda Al Khayyat," offering a variety of beauty services. Al Khayyat Center 2 also features renowned salons like "Jamalouki" and "Bouthaina," known for their exceptional service.

Culinary Offerings

Take a break at the cafes in Al Khayyat Center 2, which serve exquisite coffee. Notable spots include Sculpture Cafe for its French toast and flat white, and Caffeine Lab, which offers high-quality coffee beans. For a fine dining experience, consider reserving a table at Diora's for Mediterranean cuisine.

Local Boutiques

Discover unique local boutiques, including "Amani Al Habshi - Memen" for stylish Abayas and “AG Ain Ghain” for watches and sunglasses. Concept stores like Makeen enhance the shopping experience with curated selections.

Jeddah Boulevard

• Location: Al Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Jeddah Boulevard offers a luxurious blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation, all set against a backdrop of beautiful fountains—perfect for family outings.

Elegant Atmosphere

Since its opening in 2015, Jeddah Boulevard has become a bustling hub for luxury shopping and gourmet dining. This modern venue showcases a wide range of high-end brands and celebrated cafes.

Fashion Highlights

Fashion lovers will find iconic brands such as Prada, Gucci, and Balenciaga, alongside exclusive offerings from Dolce & Gabbana and Jimmy Choo.

Dining Experiences

The Boulevard is home to various international restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating. Enjoy authentic Lebanese cuisine at Karam Beirut or indulge in Asian dishes at Novikov and Baco.

Coffee Shops

A variety of cafes throughout Jeddah Boulevard provide quality coffee and pastries. Dots Donut is especially popular for its fresh donuts and unique toppings.

Jeddah Park

• Location: Al Shati District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Jeddah Park features an expansive design with outdoor fountains and spacious interiors, offering luxury shopping, cozy cafes, a cinema, and a diverse food court, making it ideal for families.

Shopping Variety

This destination hosts a wide array of international brands, including Tommy Hilfiger and Zara. Visitors can also explore beauty shops like L’Occitane and Inglot.

Family Entertainment

Children can enjoy attractions like “Octo City,” with live shows and interactive play. “Strike 10” offers bowling and other fun activities.

Dining Options

After shopping, dine at the acclaimed “C house Milano” or grab a quick bite from popular fast-food chains. Numerous cafes provide a cozy atmosphere, including “Paul” and “Candy Tree Cafe” for local desserts.

Cultural Experience

Visit the House of Islamic Arts, showcasing over 1,000 art pieces from various cultures, marking it as the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia.

Le Prestige Mall

• Location: Al Shati District, King Abdul Aziz Branch Road, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Le Prestige Mall is a luxurious shopping destination featuring stunning architecture and spacious interiors, perfect for leisurely strolls, coffee breaks, and fine dining.

Strategic Location

The mall is located in the Al Shati district along King Abdul Aziz branch road, and operates daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, showcasing its elegant design with glass domes and marble floors.

Dining Diversity

Visitors can enjoy a variety of international cuisines, including Brazilian dishes at Brasa de Brasil and Italian fare at L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele. The mall also offers tropical dining experiences at Pongo Restaurant.

Cafe Offerings

Le Prestige Mall features several cafes, including Urth Café and Esquires, which provide a comfortable atmosphere for enjoying coffee and desserts.

Retail Variety

Shoppers can explore a wide range of stores, from gourmet chocolate shops like Jeff De Bruges to local oud and perfume retailers.

Mall of Arabia

• Location: Near King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Located just ten minutes from the airport, Mall of Arabia is a vast shopping destination featuring around 408 stores that cater to both international and local tastes.

Family-Friendly Environment

Spanning approximately 261,000 square meters, Mall of Arabia offers ample parking and various entertainment options, making it a popular choice for families.

Kid's Attractions

The mall features Kidzania, an indoor play village that encourages creativity through role-playing. Other attractions include Sparkies play zone and an exciting ice rink for kids.

Dining and Relaxation

A mix of international and local restaurants and cafes are available, with Grand Concerto providing an upscale atmosphere for coffee lovers and Smit Sarai offering delicious pastries.

Cinema Experience

Enjoy the unique Movi Cinema, showcasing both Saudi and international films in a state-of-the-art environment, complete with tasty popcorn and nachos.

Extensive Shopping Choices

With brands like Coach and Michael Kors, along with sportswear and children’s clothing, Mall of Arabia offers an extensive selection for every shopper.

Red Sea Mall

Red Sea Mall stands as a vibrant hub for families and friends, embodying a lively and joyful atmosphere. Spanning 242,000 square meters, it is one of the largest shopping centers on the western coast of Saudi Arabia, conveniently located by the waterfront in Jeddah.

Location:
Al-Muhammadiyyah, Jeddah 21512, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Sunday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Thursday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Shopping Experience

Step into a world of fashion with over 600 stores at Red Sea Mall, where you can find the latest styles for men and women. This vast selection includes renowned international brands like Burberry, Beverly Hills Polo Club, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Beyond apparel, explore home decor at West Elm, featuring chic furnishings and accents. Health and beauty products are available at Virgin World, along with office supplies and electronics, ensuring every need is met.

The mall also showcases luxurious fragrance boutiques such as Paris Gallery and Joe Malone, offering exclusive scents, as well as must-have perfumes from Penhaligon's. For a refreshing makeover, the Henna salon is an excellent option.

Entertainment Options

Red Sea Mall is not just about shopping; it’s a complete entertainment experience. Enjoy thrilling films at Vox Cinema, featuring 3D IMAX technology for an immersive viewing experience. With a wide range of snacks available, from sweet and salty popcorn to fast food, your movie night is sure to be enjoyable.

Events and Activities

The event hall at Red Sea Mall is a vibrant venue for various activities and celebrations. From national events to corporate gatherings, the lively ambiance ensures that every visit is unforgettable, filled with excitement and engagement.

Dining Selection

With over 80 restaurants and cafes, dining options abound at Red Sea Mall. Whether you're craving Chinese, Japanese, or delicious Italian pizza, there’s something for everyone. Coffee lovers will find a plethora of premium options, while the delightful aromas from Paul’s French café evoke the charm of Paris. Indulge in Godiva chocolates for a sweet finish to your meal.

Luxurious Accommodation

Adjacent to the mall is Elaf Red Sea, a boutique hotel that combines elegance with convenience. This hotel offers easy access to the Jeddah Waterfront, the airport, and the city center, making it an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers. With a focus on privacy and luxury, Elaf Red Sea is ISO 9001 certified, ensuring top-notch hospitality.

Family-Friendly Fun

Families can enjoy a variety of activities, from bowling and pool at the In10SO center—Saudi Arabia’s premier indoor karting venue—to thrilling virtual reality experiences at the Tech Zone. Kids can explore dedicated play areas like Sparkies and Adventura Arena, designed for ages one to eight, ensuring endless entertainment.

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Souq Al Alawi

Dating back to 1716, Souq Al Alawi is one of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Historic Jeddah. Once a vital stop for pilgrims traveling to Makkah, this bustling open-air bazaar is filled with activity. Visitors can discover a variety of authentic Arabian jewelry, incense, traditional attire, spices, herbs, and remedies, making it a quintessential part of Jeddah's cultural landscape.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Al Badu

Just steps away from Bab Makkah, Souq Al Badu is an open-air market rich in tradition. The inviting scent of incense fills the air, and this souq has gained fame for its exquisite women’s clothing, fabrics, scarves, and traditional handicrafts.

Location:
Near Bab Makkah, Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Operating Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Al Jamei

Located near Al Shafi'i Mosque, Souq Al Jamei is a symbol of community and tradition. Particularly lively during Ramadan, it offers a unique assortment of fabrics, women’s clothing, and accessories. Its close proximity to Souq Al Badu makes it a bustling meeting point for traders and visitors, fostering a vibrant exchange of goods and stories.

Location:
Near Al Shafi'i Mosque, Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Al Nada

Souq Al Nada has long been a center for maritime trade and is celebrated in Arabic literature for its appeal. Today, the lively lanes are filled with shops offering local delicacies and custom tailoring, emphasizing its role as a vibrant symbol of Historic Jeddah's cultural and commercial heritage.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

Souq Qabil

One of Jeddah’s oldest business districts, Souq Qabil dates back to the early 20th century. Known for its gold and currency exchange shops, it continues to thrive with traditional goods. Historic buildings constructed from coral stone stand as a testament to the district's rich cultural heritage.

Location:
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opening Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: Closed

In summary, Jeddah provides an exciting shopping landscape that combines contemporary retail with rich cultural heritage. With its variety of shopping venues, the city ensures an enjoyable experience for every visitor, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the best of Saudi Arabian commerce and culture.

The UAE is poised to revolutionize urban transport with the launch of its groundbreaking commercial air taxi service in Dubai by 2026, positioning itself as the world's first city to introduce this mode of aerial commute for the public.

The project is a landmark in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technology and urban mobility innovation, supported by a strategic partnership between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and US-based Joby Aviation, alongside UK-based Skyports for infrastructure development.

Project Overview and Partners

Dubai’s air taxi initiative is set to transform city transport through fully electric, piloted aircraft capable of carrying four passengers plus luggage at speeds exceeding 300 km/h and a range over 200 km.

Joby Aviation, holding exclusive operational rights for six years starting 2024, will supply, operate, and maintain the fleet. Skyports is tasked with building the vertiports—specialized terminals for takeoff and landing of the air taxis.

The first vertiport, a three-storey facility near Dubai International Airport (behind Emirates Airline building), is already under construction, capable of handling up to 170,000 passengers a year and 10 landings per hour.

Additional vertiports are planned at high-demand locations including Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and the American University of Dubai, creating a connected aerial network across the city.

Infrastructure and Regulatory Innovation

Dubai and the UAE’s regulatory authorities, most notably the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), have pioneered a comprehensive regulatory framework enabling integration of both traditional helicopters and eVTOL aircraft on ‘hybrid’ infrastructure.

This regulatory framework is the first of its kind globally, allowing efficient use of existing helipads by converting more than 70 into hybrid vertiports, thus widening the network and making the infrastructure rollout cost-effective.

The DXV vertiport’s foundation and landing areas are complete, with parking structures in progress targeting a Q1 2026 launch. This facility supports seamless operations for both eVTOLs and helicopters, demonstrating the UAE’s commitment to advanced air mobility development.

Operational Details and Benefits

Initially, air taxis will be piloted (not autonomous), providing a quiet and smooth ride—up to 100 times quieter than helicopters. They will offer a premium travel option targeting business travelers and tourists, though the government expects fares to fall over time to be comparable with ride-hailing services like Uber.

For example, journeys such as from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah that typically take 45 minutes by car can be cut to 12-15 minutes via air taxi, expressing significant time savings.

The services will start on fixed routes with pre-booking systems, integrating into Dubai’s existing public transport network to enhance urban connectivity and reduce congestion. Long-term visions include expanding this network across other Emirates and inviting private sector participation to establish vertiports in residential and commercial hubs.

Certification and Future Prospects

While Joby Aviation's aircraft and other competitors like Archer Aviation have not yet received global certification, the UAE is actively leading the safety and certification process, aiming to be the first to regulate and operate commercial eVTOL air taxis.

This regulatory and technological leadership aims to establish Dubai not only as a testing ground but as a permanent global model for urban air mobility.

Summary of Key Facts

• Launch: Q1 2026
• Aircraft: Fully electric eVTOL, piloted with 4-passenger capacity + luggage
• Speed & Range: 300+ km/h; 200+ km range
• Vertiports: Dubai International Airport (first), Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, American University of Dubai
• Passenger capacity at DXV Vertiport: 170,000 annually, 10 landings/hour
• Noise: 100 times quieter than helicopters
• Travel time cut example: 45 min by car reduced to ~12-15 min by air taxi
• Fare: Premium at launch, projected decrease over time to competitive pricing
• Regulatory framework: World’s first national framework for hybrid helicopters and eVTOL operation
• Infrastructure: Conversion of 70+ helipads into hybrid vertiports underway
• Certification: UAE leading global certification process for commercial eVTOL

Dubai's air taxi initiative not only pushes technological boundaries but also heralds a new era in eco-friendly, efficient urban transport that enhances tourism appeal and urban mobility prospects.

This service is expected to attract global attention and set a precedent for other cities worldwide to follow the UAE’s visionary model.

Step into the exhilarating world of Virtual Reality (VR), where the boundaries of reality blur, and immersive adventures await! With cutting-edge VR headsets, interactive controllers, and dynamic motion pods, users can engage in 360-degree environments, offering a truly unique experience. Whether you're battling foes, solving intricate puzzles, or exploring fantastical worlds, VR gaming provides an escape like no other.

Hangout Qatar

At Hangout Qatar, gaming enthusiasts can enjoy a diverse range of interactive experiences. This venue features not only classic arcade games and racing simulators but also an impressive lineup of VR options. From thrilling VR rides that simulate roller coasters to immersive adventures that transport you into fantastical realms, Hangout offers something for everyone. The facility is designed for gamers of all ages, making it a perfect spot for family outings or gatherings with friends.

• Price: Experiences start as low as QR 5, making it budget-friendly.
• Location: Conveniently located in Mirqab Mall, it’s easy to access for a fun-filled day.
• Website: [hangoutqatar.com]
• Instagram: [@hangoutqatar]

Additional Highlights:

• Multiplayer VR Games: Team up with friends for cooperative challenges.
• Variety of Themes: Choose from horror, adventure, and action genres.
• Food and Beverages: Refresh yourself with snacks and drinks while gaming.

Trocadéro

If you’re looking for a social gaming experience, Trocadéro is the ideal destination. This venue offers four different multiplayer VR missions, encouraging teamwork and camaraderie. Gather your friends and family to tackle challenges together, from escaping a haunted house to completing high-stakes missions. Trocadéro ensures a fun and engaging atmosphere that brings people together through shared experiences.

• Price: Starting at QR 25, it's an affordable option for group entertainment.
• Location: Situated in Place Vendome Mall, making it easy to combine shopping and fun.
• Website: [trocadero.qa]
• Instagram: [@trocadero.qa]

Additional Highlights:

• Diverse Game Selection: Choose from various themes and difficulty levels.
• Event Packages: Ideal for birthdays and corporate gatherings.
• Comfortable Lounge Areas: Relax and socialize between gaming sessions.

Virtuocity

Virtuocity is a premier e-sports and gaming hub located within Doha Festival City. This venue features innovative V-Cube technology, allowing for both individual and multiplayer VR experiences. With a library boasting over 700 game titles, players can delve into high-definition immersive gaming using top-tier headsets. The facility also includes VR Escape Rooms and the exciting 1VR1 Football experience, where you can put your skills to the test in a virtual soccer match.

• Price:
  • QR 30 for 15 minutes
  • QR 50 for 30 minutes
  • QR 40 for the 1VR1 Football experience (for two players) for 10 minutes
• Location: Found in Doha Festival City, this hub is a must-visit for avid gamers.
• Website: [virtuocity.qa]
• Instagram: [@virtuocityqatar]

Additional Highlights:

• High-Tech Gaming Stations: Over 200 gaming stations for various consoles.
• Regular Tournaments: Participate in e-sports competitions and showcase your skills.
• VIP Rooms: Enjoy exclusive gaming experiences in private settings.

Doha Quest

Doha Quest features an advanced VR Fun Station, perfect for those looking for a shared adventure. This attraction allows up to two guests to either work together or compete against each other in thrilling virtual challenges. Whether you're solving mysteries or racing against the clock, the high-tech setup promises an engaging experience that is both fun and competitive.

• Price:
  • QR 160 for juniors (ages 4-12)
  • QR 235 for adults
• Location: Located within Doha Quest, it offers a unique blend of entertainment options.
• Website: [dohaquest.com]
• Instagram: [@dohaquest]

Additional Highlights:

• Family-Friendly Activities: Special offerings for younger guests.
• Interactive Challenges: Engage in puzzles and games that test your skills.
• Exciting Theme Park Attractions: Combine VR with other thrilling rides and experiences.

Other Notable VR Venues

The VR Zone at Mall of Qatar

A fantastic addition to the VR scene, the VR Zone features a range of experiences from racing simulations to immersive adventure games. It’s perfect for families and groups looking for an action-packed day.

Escape the Room Qatar

Known for its immersive escape room experiences, this venue now includes VR elements, allowing guests to solve puzzles in a digitally enhanced environment.

Future VR Experiences

As VR technology continues to evolve, expect more venues and experiences to pop up around Doha. Keep an eye out for new games, tech advancements, and special events that showcase the latest in VR innovation.

Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, the gateway to one of the world’s most beloved tropical destinations, has taken a significant leap forward in passenger convenience and security. As part of its ongoing commitment to enhance travel comfort and safety, the airport introduced a revolutionary baggage screening system in July 2025 that is already transforming the way millions of tourists begin their Balinese adventure.

Departing from the traditional model where checked baggage was screened at the terminal entrance, the airport now conducts this crucial security step directly at the airline check-in counters. This shift significantly reduces the need for multiple baggage checks and interaction points that often cause bottlenecks.

Passengers' hand luggage continues to be screened at the security checkpoint, but the integration of advanced Multi-View Dual-Energy X-ray (MVXR) machines for checked baggage marks a technological leap. These machines offer sharper and more accurate threat detection, ensuring heightened safety without slowing down the passenger flow.

General Manager Ahmad Syaugi Shahab highlighted that these changes align with international aviation safety standards and Indonesia's National Aviation Security Program. “This program not only boosts security but also helps us reduce waiting times dramatically, especially during peak travel seasons when passenger numbers can double from the daily average of 31,000 to 60,000,” Shahab said.

Once check-in and baggage screening are complete, travelers and their hand luggage undergo a single security screening before entering the departure waiting area, simplifying the process while maintaining robust safety protocols.

Passengers are reminded to comply with security regulations by avoiding prohibited items such as power banks, lithium batteries, and electronic cigarettes, underscoring the shared responsibility of flight safety.
The airport’s improvements extend beyond technology, with dedicated efforts to make the terminal more accessible and inclusive.

Enhanced features such as priority seating, wheelchair services, accessible restrooms, a Special Needs Counter, and dedicated drop-off and pick-up zones cater to passengers with disabilities and special requirements, inviting everyone to experience Bali with ease.

With these upgrades, Ngurah Rai International Airport aims to set a new standard in passenger experience, reflecting Bali’s stature as a top global destination. Travelers can now look forward to a smoother, faster, and safer start to their journey, turning airport time from a potential hassle into a seamless prelude to paradise.

The UAE has launched a groundbreaking step in aviation innovation with the first-ever trial of autonomous baggage handling vehicles at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). This pioneering project, a collaboration between the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Dubai Airports, and dnata, aims to transform airport ground operations by deploying a fleet of self-driving baggage tractors in real-time airside environments.

Operating under a newly established regulatory framework crafted specifically for this trial, these autonomous vehicles will navigate the busy, complex domain of ground handling, a critical yet traditionally labor-intensive area of airport logistics. This initiative marks not only a technical advancement but also sets a regulatory precedent in the UAE’s aviation sector, balancing innovation with uncompromised safety standards.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, highlighted the trial as a "key milestone for aviation in the UAE," aligned with the nation's ambition to foster a globally competitive, innovation-driven economy. He emphasized the regulator’s role as an enabler, fostering an environment where cutting-edge technology can thrive safely. Echoing this, Eng.

 Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director General of Aviation Safety Affairs at the GCAA, described the project as a blueprint for future airside operations, driven by a robust and forward-looking regulatory approach to seamlessly integrate innovation and safety.

Dubai Airports is fully backing the venture, with Omar Binadai, Chief Technology & Infrastructure Officer, noting that DWC serves as a unique platform to pilot next-generation solutions that enhance operational excellence and passenger experience. The autonomous baggage tractors trial directly supports DWC’s future vision as a major global aviation hub, with projected capacity to handle 260 million passengers annually.

For dnata, this milestone underlines a commitment to smarter, safer airport services. Jaffar Dawood, Divisional Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations at dnata, acknowledged the introduction of autonomous vehicles into live baggage handling as a significant leap forward, promising enhancements in safety, efficiency, and service quality.

The vehicles, electric tractors powered by driverless technology, will tow multiple baggage containers at regulated speeds, freeing staff to focus on higher-value tasks and improving turnaround times.

The trial is part of a broader strategic collaboration between dnata and the GCAA aimed at modernising airport ground handling through advanced technology. Insights gained from this initiative at DWC are expected to guide the future deployment of autonomous systems across UAE airports, solidifying the country’s leadership in smart aviation infrastructure and operational innovation.

This advance places the UAE at the forefront of smart mobility in aviation, embracing automation not just as a concept but as an operational reality shaping the future of airport logistics.

Qatar Aeronautical Academy (QAA) and Qatar Airways have formalized a significant cooperation agreement, signed during the Paris International Air Show in France, aimed at advancing aviation training and professional development in Qatar. The agreement, accredited by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), was signed by QAA’s Director-General, HE Sheikh Jabor bin Hamad Al-Thani, and Qatar Airways Group CEO, Eng. Badr Mohammed Al Meer.

Under this partnership, QAA is set to train approximately 750 students over the next five years, opening new avenues for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of national talent in the aviation sector. The initiative is designed to provide outstanding opportunities for young individuals aspiring to join the aviation field, aligning with Qatar’s broader goals for workforce development and the Qatar National Vision 2030.

QAA, established in 1977, is recognized as the Gulf region’s leading provider of aviation training, offering accredited programs for pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers, meteorologists, and other aviation professionals. The Academy’s mission is to produce highly qualified cadres by employing the latest training systems and maintaining strong ties with both regional and international institutions. This ensures that students are prepared according to the highest international standards.

Qatar Airways, which has recently been recognized as the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax, views this agreement as a reflection of its ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals. The airline is investing in future operations by partnering with leading institutions and supporting young talent to obtain the necessary training and opportunities to succeed in the industry.

Senior Vice President of Operations at Qatar Airways, Captain Khalid Issa Al Hammadi, emphasized that this collaboration supports innovation, knowledge sharing, and long-term career growth in the advanced aviation sector.

The agreement also complements Qatar Airways’ broader strategy of forming global partnerships and investing in state-of-the-art technologies and training programs, as evidenced by its other recent initiatives announced at the Paris Air Show. These include multi-crew pilot license training programs and partnerships with international training providers, further reinforcing Qatar’s ambition to become a global center of excellence in aviation.

Additionally, QAA is undergoing a major facilities upgrade, with a $45 million project slated for completion by late 2027, ensuring that the Academy remains at the forefront of aviation education and training infrastructure in the Middle East. This cooperation agreement not only enhances the educational and professional landscape for aviation in Qatar but also supports the sustainable growth and global competitiveness of the country’s aviation industry.