The post Jordon welcomed around 2.125 million international visitors between January and April, 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Jordan’s tourism sector is showing “strong” signs of recovery, with international visitor arrivals rising by 19 per cent during the first third of 2025 compared with the same period last year, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.

The ministry reported that the Kingdom welcomed around 2.125 million international visitors between January and April, up from 1.785 million during the same period in 2024, reflecting growing international interest in Jordan as a travel destination and highlighting tourism’s continued role as a vital contributor to the national economy. As informed by a news report in the Jordan Times.

Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) remained the top entry point, accounting for 33.1 per cent of all arrivals, with more than 705,000 visitors entering through the airport.

Land border crossings also contributed significantly. The Omari crossing recorded 23.8 per cent of total tourist entries (over 507,000 visitors), followed by the King Hussein Bridge (10.4 per cent) and the Jaber crossing (9.2 per cent), according to the ministry’s figures.

Other points of entry included Wadi Araba (3.8 per cent), Aqaba’s seaport (2.8 per cent), the Jordan Valley crossing (2.6 per cent), the Karameh crossing (1.5 per cent), and King Hussein Airport in Aqaba (0.3 per cent).

Petra, in particular, is attracting a new wave of tourists drawn by live music events and cultural performances. Sector officials noted that an increasing number of international visitors are now travelling specifically to attend concerts held at the historic site. “Travel agencies are responding by offering curated packages that include concert tickets, luxury accommodations, guided tours, and visits to nearby attractions,” said Hani Karim, a travel agency employee, told The Jordan Times.

As the tourism sector continues to rebound, stakeholders are calling for sustained investment in infrastructure, digital transformation, and workforce development to ensure long-term growth.

 

The post Jordon welcomed around 2.125 million international visitors between January and April, 2025 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Travel expenditure per capita of Inbound Indian tourists to Japan recorded at 241,590 Japanese yen: JNTO appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Indian tourists proved to be both highly engaged and high spending in 2024, with the travel expenditure per capita of Inbound Indian tourists to Japan recorded at 241,590 Japanese yen (approximately INR 1.45 lakh*), 53.6% increase compared to 2019. The amount includes expenses during the trip plus package details. The average duration of stay stood at an impressive 16.3 nights, indicating that Indian travellers are showing interest in truly immersing themselves in its culture, lifestyle, and experiences. With approximately 233,000 Indian visitors recorded between January and December 2024, spending by Indian visitors to Japan amounted to an estimated 56.1 billion Japanese yen—equivalent to approximately INR 3,366 crore*. This reflects the growing economic impact of Indian tourism on Japan’s inbound travel market.

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Delhi Office is thrilled to reveal new figures from the Japan Tourism Agency showing a strong upswing in spending by Indian travellers visiting Japan.

Repeat visitors and consumption patterns: Notably, 64.9% of Indian visitors were first timers, while 26.2% had visited Japan between two to five times. Encouragingly, the number of Indian visitors to Japan is steadily increasing, reflecting growing familiarity, satisfaction, and deeper interest in exploring different parts of Japan. First-time Indian visitors predominantly favour the classic ‘Golden Route’, which includes Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima—offering a seamless blend of Japan’s ancient heritage, cutting-edge modernity, and breathtaking landscapes.   While these iconic cities remain popular, JNTO Delhi is actively promoting travel beyond the Golden Route, encouraging Indian travellers to explore regional destinations that showcase Japan’s rich local cultures and a chance to avoid over-crowding—uncovering the true depth and diversity of the country.

When looking at the overall purpose of travel, 41.8% of Indian visitors travelled for leisure, while 14.7% visited Japan for corporate or business, and 8.4% came to visit friends and relatives (VFR). Additionally, there is a noticeable upward trend in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) to newer regions and B2B excursion travel, reflecting Japan’s growing appeal as a destination for corporate group-based travel.

In terms of travel booking patterns, a significant 86.9% of leisure travellers choose to plan their trips independently, rather than through group tours. However, many of these travellers still opt for customized pre-arranged package tours that include essentials like flights, hotels, and sightseeing, suggesting a preference for flexibility within a structured itinerary, rather than fully independent travel. This trend highlights the growing confidence among Indian travellers in navigating Japan on their own, as well as the ease of booking for Japan as a destination such as transport, accommodation, and activities.

The upward trend continues in 2025, with approx. 62,100 Indian visitors recorded in Q1 (Jan-March), marking a 24.8% increase compared to 49,799 in the same period last year. Traditionally, February has been the leanest month for Indian arrivals to Japan, but February 2025 saw a notable 29.0% year-on-year growth. This surge reflects the growing interest among Indian travellers in experiencing Japan during winters, particularly in regions like Hokkaido, world famous for its snow quality called as “powder snow”. This strong momentum carried into April, which recorded 37,300 Indian visitors—not only the highest-ever for the month of April, but also the highest monthly figure on record for Indian arrivals to Japan, as noted by the JNTO Delhi Office. April in Japan is widely recognized as the cherry blossom season, and this surge aligns with one of the peak travel periods for Indian visitors, who are increasingly drawn to the country’s iconic springtime beauty

Indian visitors to Japan in 2024 demonstrated thoughtful and balanced spending habits, with a strong focus on comfort, local experiences, and shopping. According to data from the Japan Tourism Agency, the largest share of expenditure—43.2%—was allocated to accommodation, indicating a clear preference for quality stays that enhance the overall travel experience.

Shopping accounted for 19.5% of total spending, reflecting the popularity of Japanese products such as sweets, snacks, fashion, accessories, and cosmetics among Indian tourists. Close behind, food and beverages made up 19.4% of expenses, highlighting the growing appreciation for Japanese cuisine and unique dining experiences, from sushi restaurants and ramen shops to themed cafés. Transportation made up 14.3% of travel spending, driven by Japan’s efficient and extensive rail network, including the iconic Shinkansen bullet trains that help visitors explore multiple cities with ease. Meanwhile, amusement and attractions accounted for 3.6%, showing steady interest in theme parks, cultural shows, and local entertainment.

India Pavilion-Bharat Now Open at Expo 2025, Osaka 

The India Pavilion-Bharat at Expo 2025, Osaka is now open to visitors, offering a powerful and immersive showcase of India’s cultural richness, spiritual depth, and scientific achievements.

Visitors can journey through the serene Lotus Courtyard, where symbols like Padmapani and the Bodhi Tree evoke India’s timeless values of compassion and wisdom. The Oneness Lounge, inspired by a sacred mandapa, radiates Bharat’s signature warmth, harmony, and hospitality. Adding to the experience are standout features such as a Chandrayaan-3 scale model, symbolizing India’s pioneering role in space exploration, and a spectacular Geo-light Mesh Rooftop embedded with 72,576 LED lights—a first-of-its-kind installation, visible from across the Expo grounds.

 

 

The post Travel expenditure per capita of Inbound Indian tourists to Japan recorded at 241,590 Japanese yen: JNTO appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Emirates Skywards partners with Coca-Cola Arena appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

Skywards Exclusives, a unique airline loyalty initiative that offers experiences from Emirates’ sponsorships portfolio, has expanded its offerings to now include hospitality tickets at Dubai’s largest multipurpose indoor venue, Coca-Cola Arena. Starting now members can bid or redeem Miles to watch the best music concerts, comedy shows, sports tournaments and much more.

Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, said: “Skywards Exclusives continues to be a very popular offering, and we’re thrilled to expand our portfolio to include hospitality tickets at Coca Cola Arena. Members can now redeem Miles and enjoy watching unforgettable experiences across comedy, sports, and all the excitement you’d expect at a premier entertainment venue. We look forward to this exciting partnership and to offering our members worldwide – whether residents of Dubai or visitors to the vibrant city – the best loyalty experiences on-ground.”

Mark Jan Kar, SVP, Entertainment & Content Development, MENA, ASM Global & General Manager of Coca-Cola Arena, said: We are pleased to welcome Emirates Skywards as the Official Airline Rewards Partner of Coca-Cola Arena. As a world-class venue in the heart of Dubai, this partnership unites two iconic brands with a shared passion for excellence. Together, we’re committed to offering both residents and visitors the very best in hospitality and live entertainment, from concerts and sports to comedy and family shows. With the added value of Emirates Skywards, fans can look forward to even more rewarding and elevated moments at the Arena with unbeatable live entertainment.

With a fantastic line-up of concerts and events, Coca-Cola Arena is set to welcome the best performances this year from international touring artists, Arabic and Bollywood stars and world-class sports events. Starting from 5,000 Miles, members can bid or redeem Miles for a pair of hospitality tickets with premium seats, and the best panoramic views of the stage.

Live in the moment with Skywards Exclusives 

From hospitality tickets to renowned events, thrilling football matches, and the best of tennis – members truly “live the best moments” with Skywards Exclusives.

35 million members and counting 

The loyalty programme continues to leverage Emirates’ extensive sponsorship portfolio to offer its 35 million members worldwide exceptional experiences.

Emirates Skywards was recently crowned as ‘Best Global Airline Loyalty Program’ at the International Loyalty Awards 2025;  ‘Platinum: Global Loyalty Programme’ and ‘Silver: Customer Experience Strategy’ at the Loyalty 360 Awards; and ‘World’s Leading Airline – Rewards Programme’ at the World Travel Awards 2024 – recognised for its extensive brand partnership portfolio and innovative offerings that enable members to ‘earn better’ and ‘spend better.’

 

The post Emirates Skywards partners with Coca-Cola Arena appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post RateGain Posts 44% Growth in PAT in FY25 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

RateGain Travel Technologies Limited announced its financial results for the quarter and year ended March 31, 2025. In Q4 FY25, the company delivered healthy growth in Profit After Tax (PAT) with a record-high EBITDA margin of 23.2% with improved operational efficiencies.

The company’s Operating Revenue grew by 12.5% YoY to reach a new high of INR 10,766.7 Mn in FY25, with steady growth across all three segments. Operating margins expanded to a record high of 21.6% for FY25, up from 19.8% in the previous year, reflecting focus on sustainable growth and operational efficiency contributing to record margins. Profit After Tax (PAT) increased by 43.7% YoY, driven by growth and disciplined execution.

Bhanu Chopra, Founder and Chairman, RateGain Travel Technologies, said: “In FY25 we started building for the future with an AI-first approach focused on solving new customer problems. I am confident that with our ability to drive excellence at scale through our products, we will be able to deliver value to our customers across the hospitality & travel ecosystem.

As we continue to ramp up our GTM efforts and drive more strategic partnerships, we aim to empower every player in the industry to leverage RateGain’s AI-powered solutions to maximize revenue.”

Rohan Mittal, Chief Financial Officer, RateGain Travel Technologies, added: “We close out the year on a steady note, consolidating our position amidst a challenging demand environment and with a strong performance on margins. With a continued focus on disciplined execution and enhanced operational efficiency, the company has delivered a record margin of 23.2%.

For FY25, compared to the same period last year, the company reported:

• Operating Revenue: INR 10,766.7 Mn vs. INR 9.570.3 Mn (+ 12.5% YoY)
• Total Revenue: INR 11,530.4 Mn vs. INR 9,985.9 Mn (+ 15.5% YoY)
• EBITDA: INR 2,320.6 Mn vs. INR 1,897.3 Mn (+ 22.3% YoY)
• PAT: INR 2,089.3 Mn vs. INR 1,453.9 Mn (+ 43.7% YoY)
• EBITDA Margin: 21.6% vs. 19.8%
• PAT Margin: 19.4% vs. 15.2%

Financial Highlights for Q4 FY25 (Compared to Q4 FY24):

• Operating Revenue: INR 2,606.9 Mn vs. INR 2,558.1 Mn (+ 1.9% YoY)
• Total Revenue: INR 2,811.4 Mn vs. INR 2,768.6 Mn (+ 1.5% YoY)
• EBITDA: INR 605.9 Mn vs. INR 542.5 Mn (+ 11.7% YoY)
• PAT: INR 548.1 Mn vs. INR 500.2 Mn (+ 9.6% YoY)
• EBITDA Margin: 23.2% vs. 21.2%
• PAT Margin: 21.0% vs. 19.6%

The LTV to CAC ratio remains strong at 13.6x and Revenue per Employee holds steady at INR 13.1 Mn, reflecting healthy productivity levels. With continued investments in GTM, the company has further diversified its revenue base in high growth markets within APAC and Middle East regions, now contributing to 13.7% of total revenue up from 12.4% last year.

RateGain’s AI-first strategy continued to drive greater adoption across leading travel and hospitality brands. Over the past few quarters, we have continued to identify problems the industry is facing and provide innovative solutions such as:

• UNO VIVA: world’s first CRS-integrated AI voice agent that helps hotels convert more bookings and reduce missed opportunities by automating phone reservations.
• Smart ARI: AI-powered engine that eliminates junk updates to OTAs, preventing overbookings and rate parity issues while helping OTAs cut costs through faster, real-time updates
• AirGain AI Digest: Providing airlines with real-time insights on route performance, demand trends, and anomalies, enabling faster, data-driven pricing decisions in a dynamic market.

 

 

 

 

The post RateGain Posts 44% Growth in PAT in FY25 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post CLIA announces record travel agent membership appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland recently made a number of agent-friendly announcements and updates at its annual conference in Southampton. Over 850 delegates from across the trade heard from Andy Harmer, managing director UK & Ireland, who confirmed:

There has been a 10% increase in CLIA membership since May 2024, with almost 4,300 agency members and 10,000 individuals now using CLIA’s resources and training

A further expansion of CLIA’s online ‘virtual ship tours’ is being made, with 12 more vessels added this year. The CLIA Cruise Champions Class of 2025 will graduate in June – and new for the next intake in the autumn will be a Luxury Cruise stream, to sit alongside the current Expedition Cruise and River Cruise programmes

A complimentary ‘New to Selling Cruise Virtual Day’ has been announced for July 3, which is open to all cruise agent newcomers. CLIA Cruise Week will this year take place from September 15 – 21. CLIA is encouraging the trade to start their planning now, while a raft of Cruise Week agent updates will be made over the next few months

CLIA Conference runs to May 24. It is the largest UK travel agent of the year and today included business sessions and a networking trade fair. The next couple of days feature a sailaway party and up to two ships for agents to visit, from an overall choice of six:

• Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral
• P&O Cruises’ Britannia
• Oceania Cruises’ Vista
• Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess
• MSC Cruises’ Virtuosa
• Royal Caribbean International’s Independence of the Seas

Two optional pre-Conference opportunities were yesterday on offer to delegates: a ‘New to Selling Cruise Day’, featuring sales training and product updates, or an ‘Expedition Summit’, which was hosted on Swan Hellenic in Portsmouth.

Andy Harmer said: “The cruise sector is thriving, and we’re thrilled to see so many agents, cruise lines and partners come together to share ideas, learn and celebrate our progress. Many thanks to everyone who has made such a wide-ranging event possible.

“Our latest initiatives – from training days to enhanced virtual ship tours – reflect our ongoing commitment to supporting the trade with industry-leading information and advice. Whether agents are new to cruise or seasoned sellers, CLIA is here to help them grow their confidence, knowledge and bookings.”

 

The post CLIA announces record travel agent membership appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post AirAsia shares Travel Advisory for Harvest Festivals and Hari Raya Haji appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

AirAsia wishes to remind all guests travelling during the Harvest Festivals and Hari Raya Haji period from 27 May to 9 June 2025 to plan their journeys and arrive early at the airport to allow ample time for all necessary travel procedures.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, guests are advised to:

• Arrive early at the airport, at least two hours before your domestic flight and three hours prior to an international flight, to allow ample time for all necessary travel procedures during this peak travel period. Please note that the check-in counter will close one hour before the scheduled departure time at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Terminal 2) and 45 minutes before departure at other airports in Malaysia for domestic flights.
• Perform self check-in via the AirAsia MOVE app. Self check-in is available as early as 14 days up to one hour before the scheduled departure time.

Please note:

• Download the AirAsia MOVE app from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store or Huawei AppGallery to receive the latest travel information including the latest flight updates under the ‘Flight Status’ tab in the App.
• Counter check-in service will only be available for guests with reduced mobility, those travelling with an infant (under 24 months of age), pregnant guests, senior citizens and young guests travelling alone.
• Pregnant guests are required to fill out a form at the counter before boarding. Guests who are more than 27 weeks pregnant are required to submit an approved doctor’s medical certificate.
• Guests with reduced mobility may pre-book Special Assistance (Wheelchair Service) at the time of booking or via “My Bookings” tab on the AirAsia MOVE app at least four hours before the scheduled flight departure time.
• For international travel, guests must meet the requirements for every country they will travel to and transit through, including visa requirements. These requirements may change from time to time and guests are advised to check the latest requirements with the respective embassies or consulates.
• The AirAsia MOVE App now allows you to upload or take a photo of your Visa and receive your complete Boarding Pass, making boarding seamless and hassle-free, with no unnecessary queues.

• Use the e-Boarding Pass on AirAsia MOVE app to board the flight without the hassle of printing a boarding pass. The e-Boarding Pass is accepted at all airports in Malaysia and many other airports around the world where AirAsia operates.
• Use kiosks at the airport to print baggage tags and perform self-bag drop. Once guests have self checked-in, simply scan the QR code on the e-Boarding Pass at the airport kiosk to print the baggage tags and proceed to the self baggage drop counters to load the bags. Guests can also add on or increase baggage allowance up to four hours before departure using the AirAsia MOVE app.
• Ensure cabin baggage is the right size. Each guest is only allowed one piece of cabin baggage (not larger than 56 x 36 x 23cm in dimension) and/or one laptop bag OR handbag OR small bag on board. The total permitted weight for two pieces of unchecked baggage must not exceed 7kg.

 

The post AirAsia shares Travel Advisory for Harvest Festivals and Hari Raya Haji appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post TAT unveils Vijitr@Chiang Mai at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT presents Onsen@Sankamphaeng, the latest instalment of Vijitr @ Chiang Mai – Myriad of Colours of the Light Line, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, The Royal Initiative Project.

From 31 May to 8 June 2025, between 18.00–22.00 Hrs., San Kamphaeng Hot Springs in Mae On District will come alive with light, steam, and immersive storytelling.

“Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the night-time charm of the springs, now being transformed into an oasis of radiant steam, where the healing power of Thai nature is reimagined through glowing installations and tranquil ambience,” said Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor. “Chiang Mai’s global appeal as a leading tourism destination, rich in culture, heritage, and natural beauty, makes it the perfect setting for this luminous experience.”

This year’s theme merges the purity of nature with the artistry of light and digital design, transforming the misty springs into The Magic of Onsen Night: Onsen@Sankamphaeng – The Glow of Nature. Ten immersive installations reimagine Chiang Mai’s landscape, culture, and geothermal energy through vibrant light, flowing motion, and layered sound.

The Ripple of Time opens the experience with an arched tunnel of layered, wave-like light, symbolising the flow of past, present, and future—a portal into the wonders ahead.

The Starlit Veiled casts a curtain of glittering lights, evoking stardust gently falling to earth. It feels like walking beneath a twilight sky thick with dreams.

The Flowing Tide traces the graceful movement of natural hot springs with lasers along the ground, capturing the quiet, endless rhythm of water that breathes life from beneath the earth.

The Stream Soundscape fuses sound and light, turning natural audio into a visible, immersive rhythm as visitors move through the space.

The Glowing Springs transforms steam into a living canvas, with shifting colours and music turning the bubbling pools into luminous, breathing art.

The Magic of ONSEN Night bathes the stream in soft light, inviting visitors to soak their feet and unwind in the tranquil glow.

The Prosperity Forest illuminates the surrounding trees with backlight to highlight the forest’s vitality—a symbol of growth, renewal, and the sacred energy of nature.

The Power of Fire reimagines a classic campfire gathering using simulated flames and artistically placed torches, evoking warmth, connection, and timeless human traditions.

The Great Egg features a towering egg-shaped lantern enclosing a sculpture. Representing life’s origin and the unseen force of creation, it captures the sacred simplicity and power of natural forms.

The Tales of Imagination concludes the journey with pink-hued lights, shadows, and whimsical arrangements in the trees, bringing stories to life and uniting nature, time, and the human spirit.

Beyond the light installations, the event offers a rich programme of interactive activities. In the Health & Wellness Zone, visitors can explore traditional Thai wisdom through herbal compress workshops and spa products from the On Tai community, and they can even experience the unique “chicken-coop spa.” Mae On Hospital provides free basic health services such as blood pressure and weight checks.

Each evening, four rounds of contemporary cultural performances accompany the musical fountain. Royal compositions are also performed to the rhythm of the fountain.

The Retro Fairground Zone invites guests to enjoy nostalgic fun with classic carnival rides and games such as merry-go-rounds, Ferris wheels, ring toss, and traditional archery.

A special exhibition area traces the history of San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, offering visitors deeper insight into this unique geothermal site.

Don’t miss the chance to boil eggs at night in the glow-lit spring pools or enjoy a serene foot soak in the Light Onsen, a wellness ritual under a sky of radiant beams.

Getting There:

San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is located in Mae On District, approximately 40 minutes by car from Chiang Mai city centre. The site is accessible via taxi, private vehicle, or local tour operators—perfect for travellers seeking an enchanting escape into nature lit by imagination.

 

The post TAT unveils Vijitr@Chiang Mai at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post ITB China officially opens appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The sixth ITB China officially opened today, 27th May, at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre in Shanghai, China.

Centred on New Demand, New Directions, this year’s conference looks into how tourism professionals are responding to the changing priorities of contemporary travellers, especially in light of shifting economic trends and technological advancements.

The event kicked off with a traditional Chinese dragon dance for an auspicious beginning, followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony presided over by Messe Berlin senior vice-president David Ruetz and Malaysian minister of tourism, arts, and culture Tiong King Sing, together with officials from ITB China and Tourism Malaysia.

Window to the world

As stated in our previous feature regarding the welcome ceremony for ITB China 2025, the event welcomed 700 global exhibitors and opened its doors to more than 1,400 travel buyers from 85 countries.

Along with exhibitor booths showcasing the best in global tourism, the event also features key discussions on relevant topics such Al cultural tourism, inclusivity, sustainability, and the role of technology in a constantly evolving industry.

MICE is also one of the foci for this year, especially in the revitalised context of travelling for business.

According to ITB China director Lydia Li: “Dedicated conference sessions will explore the future of incentive travel, smart venue technologies,and how digital tools are reshaping the meetings and events industry.”

Li went on to say that participating in ITB is one of the best ways by which any travel or tourism professional could gain greater understanding of the sector in the 21st century.

The post ITB China officially opens appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post Saudi Arabia receives over 1mn pilgrims for Hajj: Tawfiq Al-Rabiah appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah said that Saudi Arabia has received more than one million pilgrims from various parts of the world through its ports. Among the pilgrims, 53 percent are male while the remaining 47 percent are females, he said while addressing the government Hajj press conference.

The General Directorate of Passports announced on Monday that a total of 1,003,447 Hajj pilgrims had arrived in Saudi Arabia from abroad through various air, land, and sea ports by the end of Sunday. Al-Rabiah said that 94 percent of pilgrims arrived from abroad by air, while 4.83 percent arrived by land ports, and approximately 0.5 percent arrived by sea. He noted that 249,400 pilgrims arrived through the “Makkah Route” Initiative. As informed by a news report in the Saudi Gazette.

The minister said that pilgrims arrived in the Kingdom amidst an integrated system of care and services provided by the Kingdom, thanks to the unlimited support of the leadership. He emphasized that the ministry began preparations for the Hajj and Umrah season on the 12th of Dhul Hijjah 1445 AH, specifically at the end of the Hajj rituals last year.

“These preparations included submitting the preliminary arrangements document to various countries and organizing the largest Hajj conference and exhibition last January under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman with the participation of leaders from 87 countries around the world,” he said while noting that 78 extensive preparatory meetings were held with Hajj offices, which contributed to enhancing early preparedness.

Al-Rabiah pointed out that the Hajj exhibition and conference contributed to documenting agreements and contracts between companies via the “Nusuk” platform, in conjunction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for issuing visas. This would have a positive impact on the prices and quality of services provided to pilgrims. He noted that early preparations were conducted under the supervision of the Hajj Project Office (Hajj PMO), which is managed by the Doyof Al-Rahman program, one of the Vision 2030 programs.

Al-Rabiah reviewed the efforts of the Hajj Project Office, confirming that it was able to complete 609 plans, including 6,200 tasks, in addition to organizing periodic meetings between all parties, the most recent of which was a meeting to enhance familiarity among Hajj field commanders last week.
Digital transformation with Nusuk Card
The minister also spoke about the digital transformation currently taking place in the Kingdom, particularly in Hajj and Umrah services. He reviewed several initiatives in this regard, including the “Nusuk Card,” which provides advanced security and health features, ensuring pilgrims’ easy movement and facilitating their entry into the Grand Mosque. The card also contains information about the pilgrim, their health status, and their housing. He emphasized that 1.4 million cards have been issued to date for pilgrims and Hajj system workers.

Al-Rabiah aIso noted that this year will witness a comprehensive development of the Nusuk app, with the addition of 100 comprehensive services to enhance the Umrah and visitation experience. He explained that 30 new services have been added to the app specifically for the 2025 Hajj season, making it the best companion for pilgrims performing the rituals and obtaining various services.

Regarding field preparations for the Hajj season, Al-Rabiah confirmed that the readiness of infrastructure and electricity networks has been verified, water pumping has been tested in camps, and extensive testing has been implemented in the areas of transportation and grouping. He also noted that housing has been inspected and equipped, and that the readiness of the staff working in the Hajj service system has been verified.

The minister noted that the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has conducted more than 37,000 inspections of various service providers, resulting in the identification of 3,400 observations that have been addressed. He emphasized that no shortcomings or negligence in Hajj service will be tolerated.

He also emphasized the importance of the “No Hajj without a permit” initiative, which aims to ensure the safety of legal pilgrims, as using irregular routes to perform the Hajj pilgrimage puts the safety of those traveling through it at risk. He commended the roles played by various countries in combating fake Hajj campaigns.

 

 

 

The post Saudi Arabia receives over 1mn pilgrims for Hajj: Tawfiq Al-Rabiah appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

The post ITB China formally welcomes delegates with partner destination Malaysia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

ITB China formally kicked off on Monday evening, 26th May, with a welcome dinner for delegates that highlighted this year’s partner destination Malaysia.

This welcome dinner was held at the main ballroom of the Shangri-la Shanghai Qiantan.

The event which officially begins today in Shanghai will be welcoming over 700 exhibitors as well as 1,500 tourism buyers from 85 nations, showing a growth of 30 percent from 2024.

The sixth run of the global travel conference will also feature insights from more than 150 speakers on 60 diverse topics.

Beyond tourism promotion 

In his opening remarks, Messe Berlin senior vice-president David Ruetz cited how tourism cooperation has gone beyond simply drawing more travellers into nations.

Instead, Ruetz pointed out how contemporary tourism involves offering more inclusive options for travellers that would mutually benefits both destinations and their visitors.

Cultural and sustainable tourism, in which case, would appeal more strongly to today’s travellers.

Ruetz also called delegates’ attention to the travel innovation hub set up for ITB China 2025.

He said: “The Travel Innovation Hub will be a preview of the future of tourism.”

Indeed, the hub will feature a travel technology forum, a pitching site for innovative solutions, as well as a showcase of game-changing developments.

Ruetz also invited participants to upcoming events, including MICE China in September of this year.

A warm response

For his part, Malaysian minister of tourism, arts, and culture Tiong King Sing expressed his warm appreciation to ITB China’s organisers for giving his country’s tourism sector the opportunity to present itself to the world.

Tiong said: “We are honoured to showcase Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and world-renowned hospitality at this prestigious event. We look forward to strengthening partnerships and fostering new collaborations, and sharing the unforgettable experiences that await travellers in Malaysia.”

Tiong likewise extended an invitation to the world for Visit Malaysia 2026, citing further the richness of his country’s diverse attractions.

The minister’s remarks were followed by a Malaysian cultural showcase that concluded with a ramp show featuring the traditionally inspired style of Malaysian fashion designer Karl Ho.

 

The post ITB China formally welcomes delegates with partner destination Malaysia appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia