The post In Their Words: WTM London 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The annual World Travel Market in London (WTM London) has long been an arbiter of change for the global travel industry, and was even more so with its 2025 edition.

Revolving around the theme Reimagining Travel in a Changing World, this year’s WTM London focused on numerous global issues affecting the industry from sustainability and keeping up with the rapidly changing preferences of global travellers, to inclusivity in the contemporary travel workplace, geo-economics, and emergent technologies.

WTM’s stages were graced by the presence of bold new minds making a difference in the industry, fresh voices and innovators giving the world tantalising glimpses into the future of global travel

Travel Daily Media chief executive Gary Marshall was on the scene at ExCel London, catching up with industry leaders from around the world who converged in London to present key insights and delving into both current and upcoming trends in various sectors.

 

We take pride in sharing these interviews with our readers in the hope that they may be inspired and challenged by the rapidly evolving global travel scene.

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The post Red Sea Global Unveils AMAALA: A Groundbreaking Coastal Lifestyle and Wellness Destination on the Red Sea appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Red Sea Global (RSG) has announced the highly anticipated opening of AMAALA, the world’s most exciting new luxury coastal lifestyle and wellness destination, during the inaugural TOURISE Summit. Nestled across three breathtaking bays on Saudi Arabia’s northwest coast where the majestic Hijaz Mountains meet the turquoise Red Sea, AMAALA Triple Bay is set to welcome guests within months—ushering in a new era of regenerative tourism and holistic living.

Elevating Global Standards in Luxury, Wellness & Environmental Stewardship

AMAALA, inspired by the Arabic word for hope, introduces a reimagined standard of well-being and sophisticated living. Seamlessly blending tradition and innovation, it represents Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a world-leading destination for wellness, marine adventure, and environmental stewardship. According to John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, “AMAALA is the new home for wellness in the world,” inviting visitors to discover personal renewal through serene retreats and sun-soaked escapes.

First-Class Resorts and Signature Experiences Debut in AMAALA’s Opening Phase

 

Guests can look forward to AMAALA’s flagship luxury experiences:
• Equinox Resort and Residences: 128 sleep-optimized accommodations, revolutionary spa and regeneration programs, hyper-personalized vitality and fitness, plus culinary excellence.
• Four Seasons Resort and Residences, AMAALA at Triple Bay: 202 rooms and 25 residences surrounded by lush landscapes, extensive family amenities, and six high-end restaurants.
• Nammos Resort and Residences: Marina-view suites and apartments, iconic F&B selections including the acclaimed Nammos Restaurant and Ilios Bar, and vibrant wellness offerings.
• Rosewood Resort, AMAALA: Bespoke luxury with private residences, distinct zones for families, couples, and wellness seekers, and the Asaya Spa for deep renewal.
• Six Senses AMAALA: Immersive wellness programs, 100 pool suites and villas, a 3,000 m² spa, signature Six Senses longevity and detox programs, and advanced biohacking.
• AMAALA Yacht Club: Set to become a global yachting hub, hosting major events such as The Ocean Race Grand Finale 2027, and featuring a sailing academy.
• Corallium: An innovative marine life institute showcasing the wonders of the Red Sea through immersive, multi-level exhibits, ocean education, and conservation storytelling.
• AMAALA Hotel: A luxury escape for staff and guests, offering Levantine dining, a Mediterranean beach club, and smart, eco-conscious design.
The Wellness Route, a 5km linear park connecting pristine natural landscapes and all major resort experiences, will also launch in Phase One.
Inspired Sustainability and Vision 2030 Impact

AMAALA is steadfastly committed to regenerative tourism, targeting a 30% net conservation benefit to local ecosystems by 2040, with entire operations powered by 100% renewable energy. Strict visitor capacity (no more than 500,000 annually) and nature-positive infrastructure underscore the destination’s commitment to conservation, while projected socioeconomic contributions include 50,000 new jobs and SAR 11 billion (USD 3 billion) to Saudi Arabia’s GDP.
Unparalleled Access and Continued Growth

Arrivals are seamless via Red Sea International Airport, with direct flights from Doha, Dubai, Riyadh, and Jeddah (Europe routes coming soon), and onward transfer by luxury electric vehicles. The soon-to-reopen AlWajh Airport will add further convenience in 2026.

Upon completion, AMAALA will feature nine signature resorts with over 1,600 keys, including next-phase openings such as Clinique La Prairie Health Resort, Jayasom Wellness Resort, and The Ritz-Carlton Resort—ensuring a continuously evolving destination for ultra-luxury and wellness travel.

Explore the Future of Coastal Luxury

Discover more or plan your journey to Saudi Arabia’s new pinnacle of wellness, adventure, and sustainability at Red Sea Global.

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The post Princess Cruises Reveals Epic 2027-28 Australia Season: Three Ships, 80 Departures, Endless Adventure appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In an exciting announcement for cruise lovers, Princess Cruises is set to launch its expansive 2027-28 summer season, bringing three world-class ships—Royal Princess, Grand Princess, and Sapphire Princess—to Australian waters. This standout program features nearly 80 departures and 63 unique itineraries, providing an incredible array of choices for every type of traveller.

Princess Cruises Australia: Explore Almost 60 Destinations Across 13 Countries

Whether you’re dreaming of a short escape or a multi-country journey, Princess Cruises’ new program has you covered. From convenient homeports in Fremantle, Sydney, and Brisbane, plus select departures from Melbourne and Adelaide, you can find easily accessible embarkation points across Australia. The 2027-28 cruise itineraries showcase almost 60 destinations, promising unforgettable adventures in Australia, Southeast Asia, North America, and the South Pacific.

Season Highlights: Sapphire Princess Returns to Fremantle & Kimberley Coast Cruises

A major highlight is the return of Sapphire Princess to Fremantle, Western Australia, with a series of diverse roundtrip itineraries. Guests can enjoy everything from short seacations and voyages to Indonesia’s tropical beauty, to extended journeys along the iconic Kimberley Coast. Overnight stays in Broome offer the chance to experience the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Grand Princess: 94-Day Circle Pacific Cruise

For those seeking the ultimate oceanic grand tour, Grand Princess presents a 94-day ‘Circle Pacific’ exploration, visiting 44 destinations across 13 countries. This epic adventure includes visits to French Polynesia, Fiji, Hawaii, North America, Vietnam, and Japan, with 14 extra nights and 12 additional ports compared to previous programs—making it Princess Cruises’ most comprehensive Circle Pacific cruise yet.

Unmatched Variety for Every Cruiser

“With 80 total departures across 63 unique itineraries, ranging from quick three-day getaways to epic 43-day explorations, there’s something for everyone—from seasoned cruise travellers to families planning their first adventure,” says Princess Cruises Vice President APACA Matthew Rutherford.

Ready to plan your next cruise holiday? Discover all the details of Princess Cruises’ 2027-28 Australia program and secure your dream voyage at Princess Cruises.

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The post MSC Cruises Doubles Down: Two New World-Class Ships Announced Amid Soaring Expansion appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

In a bold move that reveals its global ambitions, MSC Cruises has announced the order of two brand-new World-class ships—raising the category’s fleet to a remarkable eight vessels. The massive €3.5 billion (A$6.2 billion) investment was revealed during the ceremonial float-out of MSC World Asia, the third World-class ship scheduled to join the fleet in 2026.

Set to begin construction in 2029 in partnership with French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique, these new ships will further cement MSC’s status as an industry powerhouse. With this commitment, MSC’s total investment with the shipyard now approaches €7 billion, spotlighting both its confidence in the future of cruise travel and its intent to dominate the global market.

Next-Generation Cruising Experience

MSC’s World-class ships are celebrated for their advanced design, energy efficiency, and an impressive capacity to carry nearly 7,000 guests. Each offers a next-generation cruise experience—think pioneering amenities, immersive entertainment, and cutting-edge sustainability features. For cruise lovers, the news means not only a broader choice of ships but also fresh, innovative destinations on the horizon.

Where Growth Meets Growing Pains

Yet despite the impressive hardware, one persistent challenge remains: MSC Cruises’ customer service and complaint handling falls short of industry standards. A recent personal experience underscores this, with a serious complaint languishing for more than three months before receiving a vague, unresolved response. The only explanation? “We’re really busy.” If true, this hints at an overwhelming volume of unresolved issues that MSC is failing to address in pace with its fleet expansion.

A Call to Balance Innovation and Service

For a company ready to invest billions in the ships of tomorrow, it’s baffling why the same effort isn’t extended to guest relations today. As MSC Cruises continues its dynamic expansion, cruise guests worldwide eagerly await a future where technological leaps at sea are matched by genuine care and responsiveness on land.

Visit the official MSC Cruises website for details on upcoming ships and itineraries.

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The post Princess Cruises Deepens Connection in the Caribbean & Panama Canal with Epic 2027-28 Voyages appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Fresh from a season of innovation, Princess Cruises unveils its largest-ever and most diverse Caribbean line-up for the newly announced 2027-28 season—bringing guests to the heart of tropical wonder and engineering marvels like never before.

Celebration Key Debuts as the Ultimate Exclusive Caribbean Destination

Caribbean dreams get a fresh spin as Princess introduces port calls to the brand-new Celebration Key, debuting November 1, 2026, with the inaugural visit from Star Princess. Purpose-built on Grand Bahama Island and designed for both adventure and relaxation, Celebration Key offers crystal-clear lagoons, more than a mile of pristine shoreline, and over 30 dining and beverage venues—making it the largest project ever undertaken by Carnival Corporation.

Guests can soak up the magic in five distinct areas:

• Paradise Plaza: The inviting heart of the island, alive with Bahamian spirit and charm.
• Starfish Lagoon: Family fun reigns with enormous freshwater lagoons, splash pads, slides, and casual beachside dining.
• Calypso Lagoon: Adults-only escapes await with swim-up bars, vibrant social spots, and lagoon-side relaxation.
• Pearl Cove Beach Club: Infinity pool luxury, premium dining, and white-sand serenity, perfect for indulgence.
• Lokono Cove: A colorful village for shopping, local crafts, and authentic keepsakes.

Caribbean Season: 187 Departures, 43 Itineraries, 31 Destinations

Spanning October 2027–April 2028, Princess’ Caribbean program features:

• 187 departures on nine ships, including the first regional season for Star Princess and Sun Princess, plus Caribbean Princess, Coral Princess, Emerald Princess, Enchanted Princess, Island Princess, Regal Princess, and Sky Princess.
• 43 itineraries from four to 15 days.
• 31 destinations including 13 UNESCO World Heritage sites and 22 unique islands (Eastern, Western, Southern Caribbean).
• Five homeports: Miami (new!), Ft. Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, New York, and San Juan.
• Extended “More Ashore” stays in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao for rich, immersive experiences.

Panama Canal Season: Iconic Ocean-to-Ocean Journeys

Continuing its legacy since 1967, Princess strengthens its status as a Panama Canal leader:

• 22 departures, 9 itineraries (September 2027–April 2028) aboard Caribbean Princess, Island Princess, Coral Princess, Emerald Princess, and Star Princess.
• Ocean-to-ocean sailings from Los Angeles or Vancouver to East Coast favorites.
• 21 destinations in nine countries, featuring seven UNESCO sites, including Cartagena and Panamá’s historic district.
• More Ashore stays in Cartagena, Aruba, Puerto Amador, and more.

Princess Cruises Chief Commercial Officer Jim Berra says, “Celebration Key is an extraordinary destination oasis and adding it to our itineraries gives guests even more ways to savor the Caribbean. Our expanded season is designed for easy-going adventures, local flavor, and memorable experiences—turning cruises into days well spent and well shared.”

Ready to chart a new course for adventure? Learn more at Princess Cruises’ dedicated Celebration Key page or explore the full program and book at Princess Cruises.

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The post Events are the new anchor for travel: Arival appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The latest report from Arival reveals a major shift in how younger travelers plan and spend.  Events from music festivals and cultural performances to live sports – are no longer add-ons; they’re the reason for the trip.  Event-Driven Traveler report, which was based on an online survey of 2,400 US and European travelers (France, Germany, Spain, and the UK) was conducted in fall 2024.  Respondents qualified as “event travelers” if they had taken a leisure trip at least 100 miles from home in the past year, stayed overnight, and attended a performing arts or sporting event.  The study explored their behaviors, preferences, and attitudes around event attendance, trip planning, and spending.

Nearly half of US travelers aged 18-34 and two in five in Europe say a live event was a major factor in choosing their destination.  This trend is reshaping trip itineraries, boosting travel spend, and creating new opportunities for experience providers.

Among the key findings:

• 73% of US travellers and 60% of Europeans attended an event in 2024
• Young travellers (18-34) attended an average of 3.7 events per year in the US and 3.0 in Europe
• US travelers aged 35-54 spent nearly $400 per event – the highest of any group
• European travelers aged 18–34 spent €221 per event, topping all other age groups in the region
• Sports dominate event attendance, but performing arts remain strong among older travelers
• Most travelers book event tickets before their trip – 53% in both the US and Europe

Beyond the numbers, the report shows that events are shaping the entire travel journey. Sporting events are the most commonly attended, with football, basketball, and baseball leading in the US, while soccer and tennis dominate in Europe.  Concerts and cultural performances also rank highly, underscoring the breadth of experiences travelers are seeking.  Travelers are also highly intentional in their planning.  Most secure tickets before departure, often weeks in advance, to guarantee access and avoid sell-outs.  Yet many still research close to the event date, highlighting the importance of maintaining visibility for last-minute planners.

 “Events are becoming a key driver of travel planning, especially for younger generations,” said Douglas Quinby, CEO and Co-founder of Arival. “We’re seeing a fundamental shift in the travel decision-making process.  For many travelers, the concert or match isn’t just part of the itinerary – it’s the reason they’re going.  This has profound implications for how destinations, operators, and marketers think about product design.  “The event-driven traveler is highly intentional. They’re researching across social platforms, booking early to avoid sellouts, and spending significantly – especially in the US and UK.  The opportunity for experience companies to build around these behaviors is enormous.  Operators who can connect the dots between events, local experiences, and seamless booking will be best positioned to capture this growing market.”

These findings will be a central theme at Arival 360 Valencia, taking place from April 27^th-29^th 2026.  Under the theme, The Tomorrow Operator, the event will explore how tours, activities, and attractions can adapt to this new reality.  Industry leaders will deep dive into:

• The future consumer and market outlooks – understanding generational shifts in travel behavior
• Crowds, attractions and the future of access – managing demand around high-profile events
• AI for experience creators – leveraging tech to personalize and optimize event-driven experiences

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The post UAE airlines amongst the top 20 worldwide: AirHelp appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Airlines across the UAE continue to soar, with Etihad Airways and Emirates among the 20 top-performing carriers worldwide, according to a newly released global ranking by AirHelp, the travel tech company supporting passengers with flight disruptions. 

Etihad Airways emerged as the highest-ranked UAE carrier, ranking 2nd worldwide with an impressive overall score of 8.07. The Abu Dhabi-based airline earned praise for its on-time performance (8) and customer opinion (8.8) – showing the airline’s continued investment in the passenger experience, fleet upgrades, and sustainable operations. Etihad’s nine-place rise from last year’s 11th position also solidifies its reputation as one of the fastest-advancing airlines in the world.

Emirates leads in customer opinion 

Emirates climbed significantly to 16th place globally, up 39 positions from last year, with an overall score of 7.45. The Dubai-based airline achieved one of the highest customer opinion scores (9.0) worldwide, positioning itself as the leader in comfort and long-haul luxury.

Budget airlines add to the growth

The UAE’s low-cost airlines also performed well in the 2025 rankings, proving that value and reliability can go hand in hand. Air Arabia ranked 38th globally with a score of 7.05, continuing to deliver dependable and affordable regional travel. Meanwhile, Flydubai ranked 71st worldwide.

Other Middle Eastern airlines 

Qatar Airways secured 1st place globally, whereas other regional airlines such as Oman Air, Saudia, and Gulf Air also performed strongly.

The UAE, along with Europe, was the only nation with four airlines featured in the global rankings – reflecting the country’s depth of quality, scale, and innovation within the competitive aviation market.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, CEO of AirHelp commented: “As global travel rebounds and passenger expectations rise, the 2025 AirHelp Score reveals which airlines are soaring – and which are falling short. We believe passengers deserve more than just competitive fairs – they need transparency and reliability. The score offers a snapshot of airline performance, helping travellers make better decisions before their flight. Our mission is to empower passengers with insights into what they can expect and their rights if flights get delayed, cancelled, or overbooked.”

Since 2015, the AirHelp Score has empowered passengers to make informed decisions by ranking the performance of airlines and airports worldwide. This year’s ranking includes 117 airlines – an increase of 8 carriers compared to 2024 – offering a broader and more detailed picture of global air travel.

 

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The post Saudi Greens: Guide to Golf  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Golf in Saudi has swiftly evolved from a niche pursuit into one of the country’s fastest-growing sports, powered by world-class facilities, a growing tournament calendar, and global recognition. With cutting-edge courses set against diverse landscapes, Saudi is emerging as a destination where the game meets excellence.

Driven by significant investment and international attention, the sport is attracting elite players and fans from around the world. Hosting major tournaments such as the Saudi International and LIV Golf, Saudi has solidified its place on the global golf map – with renowned names like Ian Poulter, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, and Dustin Johnson among the regulars on its courses.

While the country’s golf journey is still unfolding, it is already making its mark on the global stage, drawing top competition, inspiring a new generation of local talent, and setting new standards for golf in the region.

5 Major Courses for Tee-Time

• Royal Greens Golf & Country Club (King Abdullah Economic City): An 18-hole, par‑72 championship course north of Jeddah, this GEO-certified course is known for its challenging layouts, and wind exposure.  Signature holes include the 15^thand 16^th, with stunning views of the water.

Major events held here are the Saudi International, Aramco Team Series, Ladies European Tour events, and LIV Golf Jeddah.

• Riyadh Golf Club (Riyadh): Located near the center of the city, this 18-hole, par-72 course is GEO certified. Undulating terrain, manicured greens and man-made waterways lend the course aesthetic beauty and strategic challenge. Its 18 holes are fully lit, allowing golfers to tee off after dark.  The course has regularly been awarded “Saudi Arabia’s Best Golf Course” at the World Golf Awards in 2022, 2024, and 2025.

This is the flagship venue for major tournaments such as: the LIV Golf League opener, PIF Saudi Ladies International, Saudi International (Men’s) and Saudi Open (Asian Tour).

• Nofa Golf Resort (Riyadh Province): This striking 18-hole course is located southwest of Riyadh. The course is integrated with a mini safari park between holes 8 and 9, with ostriches, Arabian oryx, gazelles and antelopes allowing for a very unique golfing experience. Nofa Resorts was nominated for “Saudi Arabia’s Best Golf Course” at the World Golf Awards in 2024.

Host of the Annual Nofa Golf Tournament, a high-profile amateur event

• Dirab Golf & Country Club (near Riyadh): Located in the scenic Dirab Valley, not far from the bustling capital of Riyadh, this is one Saudi’s earliest golf experiences.  This GEO-certified course is noted for its environmental sustainability.
• Shura Links (Shura Island, Saudi Red Sea): Expected to open in late 2025, this luxury island course will feature dramatic coastal holes. Designed by Brian Curley, sustainability and regeneration lie at the heart of this design.

Additional courses include Rolling Hills, Ain Nakhl, and Safaa Golf Club (KAUST) and contribute to Saudi’s growing golf footprint.

Major Tournaments

Saudi is now a key stop on both men’s and women’s global tours, including:

• LIV Golf Riyadh (Feb 5–7 2026): Season opener for the LIV Golf League at Riyadh Golf Club, played under floodlights with stars like Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, and Bryson DeChambeau.
• PIF Saudi Ladies International (2026 dates TBC): Part of the Ladies European Tour, the finale will be held in Riyadh, with a record $5 million prize fund – the highest in series history, and marking Riyadh as a premier destination for women’s golf.
• PIF Saudi International (Nov 19-22 2025): Held at Riyadh Golf Club and backed by the Asian and European Tours, the event attracts top international talent such as Joaquín Niemann.

Sustainability is at the core of Saudi’s burgeoning golf offering, with initiatives like GEO certifications and grassroots campaigns such as GoGolf – which offers free training to new players – helping broaden access and participation.

Looking for a place that blends sports, entertainment, and heritage? In the heart of Arabia, golf comes with a view, surrounded by cities and sites that capture Saudi’s unique blend of past, present, and future.

 

 

 

 

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The post ‘Spectacular Saudi’ returns to India appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’, the consumer-facing brand of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) announces ‘Spectacular Saudi,’ a three-day five-city experiential showcase that promises to transform India’s festive season with the colours and flavours of modern Saudi.

Organised simultaneously across Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad from 21–23 November, this immersive event marks one of STA’s largest and most ambitious destination activations ever hosted in India, reinforcing Saudi’s long-term commitment to one of its fastest-growing tourism markets.

For three action-packed days, each host city will experience a vibrant showcase of Saudi’s culture, artistry and world-class hospitality. Visitors can step into Brewtopia: A Qahwa Experience, where the air hums with the scent of bakhour and freshly poured Saudi coffee. At the Epicurean-Culinary Corner, guests will discover Saudi’s evolving food story, a blend of tradition and modern flair served with characteristic generosity. What’s even better is that fans will get a chance to get to know more about Qiddiya City.

The event will be held across five landmark venues in India:

• Delhi:                       Select CityWalk Mall
• Mumbai:                  Phoenix Palladium Mall
• Bengaluru:              Lulu Mall
• Hyderabad:              Sarath City Capital Mall
• Ahmedabad:            Nexus Ahmedabad One Mall

For travellers tempted to experience Saudi first-hand, Spectacular Saudi makes the journey easier than ever. On-site Tasheer kiosks will provide information and assistance for those seeking seamless travel planning helping turn spontaneous travel dreams into reality. If you are looking to travel to Saudi, don’t forget to carry your passports to the event!

And then come the rewards: visitors stand a chance to win a four-night getaway to Riyadh (inclusive of accommodation, airport transfers, and a city tour), along with complimentary nights on select bookings, exclusive couple bonuses, and discount vouchers worth over ₹75 lakh on Saudi flights, hotels, and travel packages. Sweetening the deal further are complimentary Six Flags tickets with Riyadh package bookings for 2026 and couple passes to the MDL Beast Soundstorm Music Festival in Riyadh.

Visitors can unlock:

• Easy Visa processing
• Discounts on tours and packages
• Special fares from Saudia
• Complimentary stays
• Cash discounts on bookings
• Giveaways and gifts

These limited-time offers reflect Saudi’s dynamic push to make travel more accessible for India market as the ‘Spectacular Saudi’ follows a period of some remarkable engagements in India, including the September three-city mega roadshow across Hyderabad, Ahmedabad and Delhi, and the uniquely curated ‘Saudi Sporting Arena’ trade activation hosted earlier this November in Delhi.

The event builds on STA’s expanding footprint in India and follows the hugely successful “I Came for Football, I Stayed for More” global campaign featuring Cristiano Ronaldo (CR7), which spotlighted Saudi’s year-round events calendar, world-class entertainment, and it’s unprecedented rise as a global sports hub.

With the Riyadh Season, one of the world’s largest entertainment festivals, running from October 2025 until all the way through March 2026, the timing of ‘Spectacular Saudi’ offers Indian travellers a direct pathway into a world of concerts, global sporting showdowns, immersive attractions, cultural celebrations and fashion events.

Saudi’s tourism sector continues to accelerate, backed by ongoing investments, infrastructure expansion and a growing portfolio of global events. For Indian travellers, ‘Spectacular Saudi’ marks a milestone moment, a direct encounter with Saudi’s vibrant future, authentic heritage, and welcoming spirit.

As Saudi continues its journey toward becoming one of the world’s most dynamic tourism destinations, the five-city showcase invites India to witness, experience and celebrate everything that makes Saudi truly spectacular.

 

 

 

 

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The post 15th Eilat Desert Marathon appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The marathon has become a household name in the international running world and is officially recognized by the World Marathon Association. Runners will conquer the trails of the southern Arava at the end of November as part of the 2025 International Desert Marathon in Eilat, which will take place on Friday, November 29. The marathon, initiated by Marathon Israel in cooperation with the Eilat Municipality and the Eilat Tourism Corporation, offers a unique running experience that combines challenging terrain with magical views of the Edom Mountains and the Gulf of Eilat.

This is the festive edition marking the 15th anniversary of the event. The marathon attracts thousands of participants annually and brings a significant wave of sports tourism to southern Israel, directly benefiting the local tourism industry. The event draws international runners from dozens of countries.

The race will include four competitive distances, all starting from the Dan Hotel Eilat:

• Full marathon (42.2 km)
• Half marathon (21.1 km)
• 10 km race
• 5 km race

In addition, a festive 1.5 km family race will take place on the evening before the main event, with the participation of Mayor Eli Lankri.

The marathon weekend begins on Thursday (November 28) with the opening of the Expo complex, followed by the Family Race. Evening activities include yoga at sunset on the beach, a flag parade featuring running groups from around the world, a participants’ briefing, and a traditional pasta meal at the Dan Hotel Eilat.

On Friday at dawn, the competitive races begin. The winners’ ceremony will be held at 10:00 in the presence of the mayor. Throughout the route, runners will enjoy live music, refreshments, and the stunning desert landscape. In the evening, a festive film screening on the promenade will celebrate 15 years of the desert marathon.

On Saturday, the weekend concludes with a recovery run, yoga on the promenade, and professional lectures by top Israeli running coaches.

According to Ofer Padan, CEO of Marathon Israel: “The Desert Marathon in Eilat is much more than a sporting event—it is a celebration of nature, running, and community. This year, as we mark 15 years of activity, we invite all runners to experience the magic of the desert, the international atmosphere, and the warm embrace of Eilat.”

Eilat Mayor Eli Lankri added: “Eilat is proud to host the Desert Marathon for the 15th year. The event connects sports, landscape, and tourism, and puts Eilat on the map of international sporting events. We invite the public to come, run, and enjoy an extraordinary experience in the desert.”

The marathon is held in cooperation with the Dan

 

 

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