The post Saudia Transports Over 17.5 Million Guests in H1, 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has achieved growth in its operational performance for the first half of 2025, based to the latest performance report. The airline carried more than 17.5 million guests, marking a 7.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

This growth was supported by the operation of over 100,000 flights, including scheduled and additional services across its extensive network spanning four continents, representing a 4% increase. In total, Saudia recorded more than 293,500 flight hours during this period, while maintaining an exceptional on-time performance rate (OTP) of 89.6%. Notably, the airline ranked first worldwide for OTP in both March and June 2025, according to reports issued by Cirium, a leading global aviation analytics provider.

As part of its mission to bring the world to the Kingdom, Saudia transported over 9.6 million international guests in the first half of 2025, marking a 5% increase year-on-year. The increase was supported by the operation of more than 43,700 international flights, representing a 3% rise compared to the same period last year. On the domestic front, Saudia transported more than 7.9 million guests, reflecting a 10% increase, with over 56,400 domestic flights operated across the Kingdom.

These achievements reflect the dedication and expertise of Saudia’s national workforce across all sectors, particularly in operations, planning, execution, and performance monitoring. The airline’s focus on enhancing quality and operational efficiency has been further strengthened through strategic investments in advanced digital systems, resulting in an improved guest experience.

Saudia’s current fleet of 148 aircraft underpins its strong operational performance across both domestic and international networks. Looking ahead, the planned addition of 117 new aircraft in the coming years will enable the airline to increase flight frequencies, expand seat capacity on existing routes, and introduce new international destinations. These advancements reinforce the Kingdom’s national priorities in tourism, entertainment, sports, and Hajj and Umrah services.

 

 

 

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The post ONYX Hospitality Group Unveils “ONYX Onward – Unlock Double Benefits That Matter Most” appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

ONYX Hospitality Group is proud to announces the launch of its first-ever chain-wide MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) campaign: “ONYX Onward – Unlock Double Benefits That Matter Most.” Designed to meet the evolving needs of event planners, this exclusive offer delivers enhanced flexibility, value, and rewards across ONYX’s diverse portfolio of hotels and resorts in Thailand, Malaysia, and beyond including Laos and Sri Lanka.

Tailored benefits:

For group bookings of 10 or more paid room nights, clients may select any two benefits from a curated suite of six tailored options:

• 5% rebate on the master bill (room and banquet package revenue)
• One complimentary room upgrade for every 15 paid rooms per night (maximum of three)
• 15% discount on food and beverage at all dining venues
• One complimentary room for every 15 paid rooms per night (maximum of three)
• One-time upgrade to a themed coffee break
• Early check-in and late check-out for the organiser’s room (up to three rooms).Whether hosting a corporate offsite, incentive tour, destination wedding or group retreat, ONYX Hospitality Group ensures seamless event coordination, exceptional service, and memorable experiences tailored to each occasion. “With ONYX Onward, we are delivering real value and flexibility to today’s event planners,” commented Sunny Kim, Vice President, Global Sales, ONYX Hospitality Group. “Our diverse portfolio, combined with tailored benefits, reinforces ONYX’s position as a trusted partner in the MICE sector.”

Why Choose ONYX?

• A trusted hospitality brand with a strong presence across Southeast Asia.
• A portfolio of versatile venues ideal for meetings, incentives, weddings, and social events — from intimate events to elaborate celebrations that require detailed planning and seamless execution.
• Participating flagship properties across ONYX Hospitality Group’s diverse brand portfolio in Thailand and beyond include Amari Bangkok, Amari Phuket, Amari SPICE Penang, Amari Vang Vieng, Oriental Residence Bangkok, and OZO North Pattaya. Each offers a unique blend of versatile event spaces and premium amenities. Whether planners are drawn to the warm hospitality and exceptional service of Amari, the vibrant energy and playful charm of OZO, or the refined elegance of Oriental Residence Bangkok, ONYX provides a tailored setting for every occasion.
• A deep understanding of traveller preferences and the unique requirements of event planners.
• Global support through ONYX’s corporate sales teams and international sales representatives targeting key markets including the United Kingdom, Europe, India, Greater China, Korea, and the broader ASEAN region.

Campaign Overview:

• Promo Code: ONYX ONWARD
• Minimum Booking Requirement: 10 paid rooms per night
• Offer Available At: Participating ONYX properties in Thailand, Malaysia, Laos and Sri Lanka
• Booking Channels: ONYX sales representatives or direct contact with participating properties
  Terms & Conditions:
• Offer valid until 31 October 2025.
• Applicable to group bookings for MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Convention and Exhibition) and wedding events. Not valid for leisure group series or batch pattern bookings.
• Rebate valid for use within 1 year, excluding peak seasons.
• Banquet Package includes meeting package and lunch or dinner package (food and beverage).
• Offer is subject to availability.
• Please mention the promo code “ONYX ONWARD” when making your inquiry to be eligible for this offer.

 

 

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The post IWTA interviews Leanne Reddie on “From Fearless to Global” appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

 

IWTA interviews Leanne Reddie on “From Fearless to Global”

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you know of any female leaders or up and coming superstars in the Travel and Hospitality industry you would like to hear their story, please visit our page and complete a nomination form!

 

NOMINATE SOMEONE

 

NOMINATE YOURSELF

 

 

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The post Urwin: Ask, test, learn, and repeat when it comes to AI and travel strategy appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Delivering the keynote at Digital Travel APAC 2025 in Singapore, Mastercard vice-president of retail and commerce Annie Urwin pointed out how generative AI and data can go a long way in terms of reinventing travel strategy on both regional and global levels.

Urwin explained that there is a gap between what people search for and what they actually do or what decisions they eventually end up making.

Indeed, customer expectations today are shifting rapidly; so organizations are hard-pressed to keep up.

She said: “I want to explore two big shifts that are reshaping how organisations are informing strategy. Firstly: how generative AI is turning into real-time insights. Secondly: how experimentation is becoming the most important muscle for growth.”

At the same time, Urwin corrected the assumption that the travel industry doesn’t have enough data; on the contrary, there is too much data.

In fact, there is so much, that people and organisations don’t know what to do with all of it.

As Urwin put it: “There are more dashboards than decisions, more reports than results. We’re measuring everything, but understanding very little.”

How generative AI can help 

Currently, travel businesses are swamped under by raw data.

Unfortunately, there is no synthesis, or putting a why to the what, involved.

Urwin said of the situation: “When teams don’t know where to look, they default to gut feel. They delay action or, worse, they make the wrong call based on a single data point.”

This is something that generative AI can help with, as it can be used to bring together signals across teams, helping them discern what data matters and what doesn’t.

Data is one thing, but travellers are another

Another key issue that challenges the travel industry globally is the rate at which traveller behaviour is evolving.

Urwin describes it thus: “Traveller behaviour is changing faster than ever. What they search for, how they book, and when they convert is no longer linear and it’s rarely predictable.”

Fortunately for the industry, companies like Mastercard have looked into the data as well as both current and emergent technologies that go a step beyond.

In the case of generative AI, it not only gathers data, but also interprets it in a meaningful manner.

According to Urwin: “Generative AI creates a new layer between humans and data. It takes search trends, reviews, purchase data, and social sentiment; connecting the dots to turn data into answers, and these answers into experiments. Such experiments don’t just automate processes, but they augment them.”

As a result insights are gleaned faster, easier, and comes off as more human.

These insights then serve as a foundation for more effective travel strategies moving forward.

Where the Secret SAUCE comes in

In closing, Urwin shared an acronym: Secret SAUCE.

The acronym serves as a guide that companies can use when contemplating the use of data, generative AI, and other innovations in their work.

These are:

• Spot the signals;
• Ask better questions;
• Unlock your data with the right tools;
• Create experiments based on the insights; and
• Empower every team in your organisation with the right tools for the job.

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The post A&K Sanctuary Introduces Nile Seray: A Palace on the Nile Launching in 2026 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

A chic new riverboat of unparalleled luxury is setting sail on the Nile in 2026. Nile Seray is the fifth luxury riverboat launched in Egypt by A&K Sanctuary, and the most sophisticated and spacious to date. The name “Seray”, meaning palace, captures the essence of this floating sanctuary, which brings contemporary elegance to the world’s most storied waterway.

Designed for just 64 guests across 32 elegant, modern suites, Nile Seray offers exceptionally spacious accommodations beginning with generous 33-square-metre entry-level suites. Each suite features a seating area beside floor-to-ceiling windows, a waterside Juliet balcony, and large bathroom, whilst two magnificent suites boast full private balconies with outdoor spa pools overlooking the ancient river.

“Nile Seray represents the evolution of our nearly five decades of pioneering river cruising in Egypt,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of AKTG. “This vessel embodies our understanding that luxury today is defined not by excess, but by space, authenticity, and the quality of experience. It reflects how we see travel: deeply personal, beautifully crafted, and rooted in genuine connection to place.”

Beyond the Expected: Egypt’s Hidden Treasures

What truly distinguishes Nile Seray’ offering, in addition to its exceptional design, is the inclusion of Egypt’s most coveted archaeological sites as standard. Every booking features some of the most magnificent tombs on the West Bank of the Nile that are not on the usual sightseeing route: Nefertari, Seti I, Ramses VI, and King Tutankhamun. These experiences offer intimate encounters with Egypt’s most precious heritage sites and create the kind of extraordinary journey that has become A&K’s hallmark over nearly five decades of Egyptian exploration.

A New Standard for Nile Cruising

There are two restaurants helmed by world-class chefs (one indoors, one out), a spa and gym, and a beautiful top deck with canopied daybeds, a swimming pool, and an outdoor bar and lounge with wraparound views of the Nile valley. The wellness space features two spa treatment rooms alongside a well-equipped gymnasium, creating a sanctuary for rejuvenation between excursions.

A Legacy of Nile Excellence

A&K has a remarkable history on the Nile dating back to 1977, when founder Geoffrey Kent was inspired by a chance encounter with actor David Niven on the set of “Death on the Nile” to lease the old steamship SS Memnon and launch A&K’s first Nile cruise. Since those pioneering days, A&K has continued to innovate and set new standards for luxury river cruising in Egypt.

Deeply Immersive Egyptian Discovery

Nile Seray sails between Aswan and Luxor on four-night voyages that transport guests back in time to Ancient Egypt. The carefully curated itinerary includes visits to the magnificent temples of Luxor, Karnak and Aswan, alongside authentic cultural experiences such as felucca sailing around Elephantine Island, Egyptian cooking classes, traditional entertainment including costume parties and Dervish shows, alongside the opportunity for hot-air balloon rides over this awe-inspiring destination.

Expert Egyptologists accompany every excursion, bringing thousands of years of history to life through expert storytelling. Each voyage includes all meals, excursions and onboard amenities, whilst every booking supports A&K Philanthropy’s community initiatives in the region.

 

 

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The post Scoot launches New Routes to Chiang Rai, Okinawa and Tokyo from Dec, 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), announced the launch of new flight services to Chiang Rai in Thailand, and Okinawa and Tokyo (Haneda) in Japan. These flights will commence progressively between December 2025 and March 2026, offering more options for holidaymakers planning their year-end and new year travels.

Leslie Thng, Chief Executive Officer of Scoot, shared:  “We are thrilled to expand Scoot’s network in Asia with new routes to Chiang Rai, Okinawa and Tokyo (Haneda), offering our customers even more travel options. In addition, the upcoming increase in services to some cities will support stronger demand for air travel during the year-end and new year holiday periods. We will continue to look for opportunities to connect our customers to new travel experiences and memorable journeys with Scoot.”

Located in the northernmost part of Thailand, Chiang Rai is known for its mountainous grandeur and serene atmosphere. Deeply rooted in Lanna heritage, its ethnic population is diverse with different hill tribes. Its multiculturalism is further reflected in the province’s architecture, cuisine and art. Scoot will begin five times weekly flights to Chiang Rai on 1 January 2026 on the Embraer E190-E2 aircraft.

Okinawa, Japan’s subtropical paradise, is an archipelago of islands known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and unique Ryukyu heritage. Home to cultural and natural UNESCO World Heritage sites, Okinawa offers an immersion into the rich history and natural beauty of the land. Scoot will also launch services to Tokyo (Haneda), providing travellers an alternative and convenient way to access the bustling capital of Japan. Three times weekly flights to Okinawa will begin on 15 December 2025 on the Airbus A320 family aircraft, while daily flights to Tokyo (Haneda) will begin on 1 March 2026 on the Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

One-way economy class fares start from SGD128 to Chiang Rai, SGD190 to Okinawa, and SGD190 to Tokyo (Haneda), inclusive of taxes.

The new flights will be available for booking from today via Scoot’s website, mobile application, and progressively through other channels.

With the launch of services to Chiang Rai, Okinawa and Tokyo (Haneda), Scoot will operate 111 weekly flights to Thailand and 45 weekly flights to Japan. With the new additions to its network, the airline will operate to 76 destinations (including Singapore) across 18 countries and territories in Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Europe.

Aside from the new destinations, Scoot will be increasing flight frequencies within its network to support anticipated demand for air travel during the upcoming holiday periods.

In Southeast Asia, flights to Bangkok increased from 35 to 39 times weekly from August 2025. Ipoh will see increased services from 17 to 21 times weekly from November 2025. Chiang Mai will also see progressive increase in frequencies to 14 times weekly by December 2025, up from seven times weekly.

In North Asia, services to Tokyo (Narita) (via Taipei) will progressively increase to 14 times weekly from October 2025, up from 12 times weekly. Services to Sapporo (Hokkaido) (via Taipei) will also increase from four to seven times weekly from December 2025. Correspondingly, services between Singapore and Taipei will gradually increase from 23 to 25 times from October 2025 and 25 to 28 times from December 2025. Additionally, flights to Jeju will increase from five to seven times weekly from January 2026.

In Europe, frequencies to Vienna will increase from three to four times weekly from March 2026.

 

 

 

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The post Crystal launches ‘by Abercrombie & Kent’ experiences appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Crystal unveiled By Abercrombie & Kent, an exclusive partnership with travel pioneer and sister brand Abercrombie & Kent transforming the traditional ocean cruising experience. This innovative program extends Crystal’s exceptional voyages beyond the ship, offering guests both curated land adventures and A&K’s acclaimed cultural expertise aboard Crystal vessels. This curated collection of land-based experiences spans continents, from Africa to Asia, the South Pacific to the Mediterranean, designed to immerse guests in culture, nature, and history in ways only A&K can deliver.

The launch represents a significant evolution in luxury cruising, leveraging Abercrombie & Kent’s six decades of expertise to deliver unprecedented access to authentic, world-class experiences both onshore and at sea.

Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, said: “We’re redefining what a luxury cruise experience can be, By Abercrombie & Kent isn’t just any excursion program – it’s a complete reimagining of how our guests discover the world, combining Crystal’s exceptional onboard hospitality with A&K’s unparalleled destination expertise.”

Now available for booking across Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony sailings through 2026, By Abercrombie & Kent provides multiple ways to explore:

Overland Adventures By A&K

Multi-day adventures allow guests to disembark mid-voyage and rejoin at subsequent ports, visiting iconic sites like the Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, and Uluru.  These journeys offer immersive, expertly guided experiences, including in Beijing, where guests can explore cultural landmarks including Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven before standing atop the Great Wall at one of its most scenic vantage points. Each journey is seamlessly integrated into the cruise itinerary, to provide an exhilarating experience.

 Pre- & Post-Cruise Extensions By A&K

Bespoke land journeys before or after sailing extend the voyage’s magic with immersive experiences ranging from archaeological explorations to cultural and wildlife adventures. Guests can explore the intricately carved temples of Angkor Wat, embark on indigenous cultural experiences in Whistler, or track lions on safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara. From tranquil beach escapes to dynamic city stays, these curated excursions add depth and richness to the overall journey.

Among the highlights is the chance to discover the real Dolce Vita in Tuscany and Rome. Guests can embrace Italian elegance through exclusive experiences such as a truffle hunting adventure, a private dinner at a winery and visits to iconic Roman and Renaissance landmarks. Noteworthy stops include a stay in a five-star, 11th-century castle, a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Pienza, and tours of the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain.

The mystique of Angkor Wat awaits travellers seeking to explore one of the world’s most iconic ancient sites. Guests can walk the renowned temple complex, including a temple reclaimed by nature and made famous by the film “Tomb Raider.” Additional experiences include a gala dinner accompanied by traditional music and dance at a historic Angkor temple and shopping for handicrafts at the vibrant Old Market.

Unparalleled Expertise and Access

Each By Abercrombie & Kent experience leverages A&K’s international network of more than 3,000 staff, in over 65 offices and 40 countries.  and draws from the exclusive A&K Sanctuary portfolio in Africa – the collection of luxury camps and lodges that embody A&K founder Geoffrey Kent’s founding philosophy: adventure by day, luxury by night.

By A&K land experiences include:

Crystal Serenity

Pre and Post-Cruise: Uluru Adventure

Pre and Post-Cruise: Beijing and The Great Wall

Pre-Cruise: Angkor Wat: The Timeless Majesty of Cambodia

Post-Cruise: The Mystique of Angkor Wat

Pre-Cruise: Taj & Tigers: A Journey Through Timeless India

Post-Cruise: Taj & Tigers: From Majestic Palaces to Wild Jungles

 Crystal Symphony

Pre and Post-Cruise: Secrets of the Serengeti

Pre and Post-Cruise: The Enchanting Masai Mara

Pre and Post-Cruise: Highlights of Tokyo and Hakone

Pre-Cruise: Taj and Tigers: A Journey Through Timeless India

Post-Cruise: Taj and Tigers: From Majestic Palaces to Wild Jungles

Pre-Cruise: Angkor Wat: The Timeless Majesty of Cambodia

Post-Cruise: The Mystique of Angkor Wat

Overlands:  Uluru Adventure

Overlands: Ancient and Modern: Beijing and The Great Wall

Overlands: Splendours of Taj Mahal

All logistics, from private charter flights to handpicked accommodations, are managed exclusively by A&K’s expert local teams, ensuring seamless integration with each Crystal voyage. Adventures are available as part of intimate small group tours or on an individual basis to accommodate guest preferences.

 

 

 

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The post Tickets sold out for ATIA’s Beyond Borders Travel Summit appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tickets have sold out for the Beyond Borders Travel Summit driven by strong demand to hear the industry’s sharpest minds debate future challenges and opportunities. A waitlist has now been set up and can be accessed.  Dean Long, ATIA CEO said: “The fact that Beyond Borders has sold out so quickly in only its second year shows that the travel industry has embraced this unmatched thought leadership event in ATIA’s calendar. The 2025 Beyond Borders Summit will be bigger and bolder in every respect with a greater variety of content that will be relevant to leaders representing travel businesses of any size.

“Beyond Borders brings together many of the sharpest minds in Travel and Business to discuss practical solutions and innovative thinking as the industry grapples with critical issues. Participants will walk away with invaluable perspectives. It is also an unparalleled opportunity for professionals across the sector to connect, share insights and collaborate on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.’’

The Beyond Borders Travel Summit offers an unmatched platform for learning, networking and staying ahead of industry trends

By bringing together influential voices from every sector of the travel ecosystem, Beyond Borders is an unprecedented opportunity to build bridges and tap into future trends.
Panels and workshops will unveil actionable insights on the innovations and strategies that will shape the industry through 2030 and beyond.
Event Details:
Date: Friday 17 October 2025
Time: 8.30am for a 9am start – 5pm
Venue: The Star, Brisbane

 

 

 

 

 

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The post Digital Travel APAC 2025 focuses on connection within the region and the world appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Digital Travel APAC 2025 opened today, 11th August, at the One Farrer Hotel in Singapore’s Little India district.

The event is currently being attended by more than 300 attendees from the fields of travel, tourism, commercial aviation, hospitality, and traveltech, seeking to gain insight on how contemporary technologies will make a difference in their respective sectors on both regional and global levels.

The event is divided into 33 talks, panels, and keynotes featuring some of the leading minds from both APAC and the rest of the world.

Digital Travel APAC 2025 is organised by WBR Singapore Pte Ltd, and Travel Daily Media is an official media partner.

Human connection lies at the core

Considering that the event’s key focus is on technology, the various talks highlighted how human connection still lies at the heart of the global travel sector and related industries, especially with the growing prevalence of artificial intelligence (AI) and related technologies.

In his opening remarks, conference chair and chief commercial officer of Archipelago Hospitality Chris Legaspi pointed out: “AI is no longer a side topic; it’s in every corner of our industry from personalised recommendations to predictive pricing.”

Legaspi cited a couple of examples to illustrate his point: Changi Airport’s use of AI to optimise passenger flow throughout its terminals; and how the hospitality sector is using Ai-driven technologies to minimise food waste in their F&B operations.

As he put it: “This is progress that matters.”

The need for trust and transparency 

However, Legaspi was also quick to point out that rapid adoption of AI and related developments comes with a serious challenge: earning and keeping the public’s trust.

He declared: “Research is clear. Transparency, data ethics, and human oversight are the foundations of AI trust in travel.”

Attendees were challenged to think over the next couple of days to make AI visible, not invisible in their operations; to use it to enhance human judgement and not replace it.

Legaspi concluded by saying: “Be upfront about how and why AI is used. If we lead in this transparency, we’ll not only win in terms of efficiency, but we’ll win with regard to customer loyalty.”

 

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