The post Saudia and Flyadeal Launch SAR 95 Domestic Fares to Mark Kingdom’s 95th National Day appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Saudi Arabia’s flag carrier Saudia and its low-cost subsidiary Flyadeal have launched special domestic fares starting at SAR 95 in celebration of the Kingdom’s 95th National Day. The promotion is designed to make travel more accessible for residents and encourage domestic tourism during the holiday period. The limited-time fares apply to select routes across Saudi Arabia and highlight the aviation sector’s role in supporting both national pride and the growth of local tourism.

Officials noted that the discounted tickets reflect the government’s wider efforts to stimulate the domestic travel market, a central component of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 diversification plan. Domestic tourism has been a key focus of the Saudi Tourism Authority, with campaigns encouraging citizens and residents to explore the Kingdom’s cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

The SAR 95 promotion is expected to drive high demand ahead of the holiday, enabling families and residents to reconnect and travel more easily within the Kingdom. Both airlines have highlighted that the initiative is not only a celebration of National Day but also an opportunity to support the broader hospitality ecosystem, from hotels and restaurants to cultural attractions. The offer further underscores how national carriers are aligning their strategies with Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to increase visitor numbers and foster stronger regional connectivity.

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The post Jumeirah Bali immerses guests in local tradition with the curated Mawedangan ritual appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As a way of helping its guests gain a greater understanding of local traditions, Jumeirah Bali adds a Curated Ritual to its offerings: Mawedangan.

Inspired by the ceremonial grace of Patehan, the traditional Javanese tea ceremony once reserved for royalty, Mawedangan has been re-imagined as a signature element of guest programming.

Set within the resort’s tranquil, open-air spaces, Mawedangan blends the refinement of royal Javanese tea customs with Balinese warmth and sensory storytelling. 

Unique to the resort, the ritual reflects its architectural inspiration from Majapahit palaces, its spiritual sensibility and its commitment to honouring both Balinese and Javanese heritage.

Mawedangan is now part of guest programming at Jumeirah Bali, available twice weekly and on special occasions, priced at IDR 600,000 net per person with a minimum of two guests per session. 

What is a Mawedangan?

Each step of this truly unique Curated Ritual unfolds with gentle narration, symbolic gestures and ceremonial grace.

Guests are welcomed with a ceremonial parade in which attendants carry sacred ritual elements for the full presentation of the tea ceremony. 

The journey begins with a guided aroma and tasting of Indonesia’s finest teas: green, black, Java jasmine, white, and roselle.

Participants may select one of these  to enjoy alongside traditional Jajan Pasar cakes and calming aromatherapy.

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The post Riyadh Airports Company wins at TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 – Middle East appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The company has relied on innovation, connectivity, and record-breaking passenger numbers to accelerate its global growth.

Riyadh Airports Company (RAC) emerged as the International Airport of the Year – Saudi Arabia awardee at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 – Middle East. This feat has bolstered its position as a major global aviation hub in the region.

The company recognises King Khalid International Airport (KKIA), operated by RAC, which serves as the gateway to Saudi Arabia’s capital. As the Kingdom’s second-largest airport, KKIA has strengthened its role as a key connector between East and West and is driven by strategic development, international partnerships, and a strong focus on passenger experience.

The airport has so far achieved impressive numbers, including 9.1 million passengers in the first quarter of 2025. This is a 38% increase compared to the same period in 2019.

International traffic also saw a significant 16.91% rise in 2024 compared to the previous year. Moreover, KKIA now connects to over 100 destinations worldwide. It has over 217,000 flights handled annually, and partnerships with more than 60 international and domestic airlines.

Additionally, the airport recorded its busiest day ever on 13 June 2024, serving 124,000 passengers across 901 flights.

This growth reflects RAC’s clear, forward-looking strategy. In line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, RAC is helping transform the Kingdom into a global logistics hub by boosting long-term connectivity and diversifying routes. KKIA has launched 18 new destinations, including key cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Warsaw, and also welcomed 15 new airlines, including eight international hub carriers, with a focus on strengthening connections to Asia and other emerging markets.

RAC has also advanced cargo development, supporting trade flows and strengthening Riyadh’s role in the global supply chain.

Furthermore, RAC’s collaboration with Riyadh Air and other global carriers reflects its consultative and partner-first approach. This ensures smooth integration of ground services, staff operations, and passenger handling.

Passenger experience is also one of RAC’s priorities. It ensures both efficiency and comfort, and it has done so by investing in terminal upgrades, new international routes, and digital services that are reshaping how travellers move through the airport.

Amongst the key innovations are the enhanced transfer experiences for connecting passengers; fast-track processes for smoother journeys; and culturally tailored services, including becoming the first airport in Saudi Arabia and the MENA region to earn the Welcome Chinese Certification.

With the introduction of experience-led services, KKIA marks not just growth but evolution into a next-generation airport.

What sets RAC apart is its proactive and collaborative approach. Rather than operating as a traditional airport, KKIA is a strategic partner to airlines. It works closely to improve commercial performance, expand networks, and drive mutual success.

RAC has diversified its airline base and commercial model by focusing on building strong relationships with foreign carriers, especially from Asia. This approach has proven efficient as it already resulted in a 10% passenger increase from January to May 2025 versus the same period in 2024.

With its ongoing infrastructure enhancements, passenger-focused innovations, and strong global partnerships, KKIA is shaping the future of air travel in Saudi Arabia. It is helping as well in positioning Riyadh as a world-class destination for business, tourism, and transit.

The TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Middle East spotlights the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives. It serves as a platform to celebrate key players who redefine the standards in the travel industry.

The TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Middle East 2025 is presented by Travel Daily Media Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. For more details, please contact Danica Avila at awardsmiddleeast@traveldailymedia.com.

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The post Agoda Unveils Asia’s Most Scenic Train Journeys appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Digital travel platform Agoda has released a curated list of Asia’s most impressive train journeys, offering travellers a unique and authentic way to experience the continent’s landscapes. These rail adventures turn transit into an attraction, offering a front-row seat to remote vistas that are often inaccessible by road or air.

In keeping with the global trend of slow travel, train travel encourages passengers to unwind, be present, and enjoy the moment. Trains are also one of the most sustainable modes of transportation, providing a way to explore responsibly while minimizing environmental impact. Ideal for all kinds of travelers, these routes offer romantic escapes for couples, captivating views for photographers, and engaging experiences for families.

Here’s Agoda’s list of train journeys in Asia that are not to be missed:

1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (India):
   Nicknamed the “Toy Train”, this railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that travels between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, offering awe-inspiring views of the Eastern Himalayas. The train journeys through tea gardens and misty mountains, with a key stop at Ghum, the highest railway station in India. Its vintage steam engine adds a charming touch to the experience.
2. Sagano Romantic Train (Japan):
   Running from Arashiyama to Kameoka, the Sagano Romantic Train lives up to its name, offering a picturesque 25-minute journey through Kyoto’s lush forests and mountain valleys. The open-air carriages provide an immersive experience, with the sounds of the Hozugawa River below and unobstructed views of the vibrant seasonal foliage that paints the landscape. It’s an ideal option for those seeking a memorable rail experience without a major time commitment.
3. Argo Wilis Train (Indonesia):
   Traveling between Surabaya and Bandung, this train glides past the diverse beauty of West Java, from volcanic peaks and dense forests to sprawling tea plantations and terraced rice fields. The journey is a visual feast, best experienced from the panoramic carriage where vast windows provide an uninterrupted view of the scenery. Here, comfort is guaranteed, with reclinable seats, footrests, and air-conditioning ensuring passengers can relax in style throughout the ride.
4. Eastern & Oriental Express (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand):
   This luxury cruise train offers a glamorous journey of indulgence between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. As lush rainforests pass by outside, passengers can enjoy elegant design, gourmet dining, and world-class service. Beyond the beautifully appointed carriages, the train also boasts exclusive amenities like the dedicated Dior Spa wellness cabin and stylish Piano Bar for evening cocktails.
5. Alishan Forest Railway (Taiwan):
   Transformed from its industrial past, this heritage railway now offers a scenic ascent from Chiayi to Alishan, winding through misty forests and dramatic mountain passes. Passengers can disembark at key stops to explore the region’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. The highlight is a spectacular sunrise view from the summit, seen over a rolling sea of clouds. The train’s vintage wooden carriages add to its old-world appeal, making for a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda, said: “There’s something special about seeing the world by train. Railway travel perfectly blends nostalgic charm with modern comfort and innovation. It’s a reminder that the journey can be just as spectacular as the destination. Agoda is proud to help travellers discover these stunning journeys with our great deals, making it easier than ever to explore Asia’s beautiful landscapes by rail.”

For travellers keen to embark on their own train adventures in Asia, Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app to start planning.

 

 

 

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The post Direct Travel Acquires ATPI   appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Direct Travel, Inc, has announced the acquisition of its longtime strategic partner, ATPI, creating  one of the world’s largest travel management companies. Together, the two companies will  drive over $6 billion in annual total travel volume and offer leading technologies and  unparalleled service across global corporate, leisure, events, and specialized travel sectors.

The acquisition of ATPI, one of the most experienced and long-established international travel  and event management companies, serves as a natural progression of the companies’ multi- year collaboration to serve the business travel needs of global corporate clients. The union  will also help accelerate the international rollout of Avenir Travel Edi@on, Direct Travel’s next generation plaIorm designed to delight business travelers, empower travel managers with  real-time intelligence and create new value for travel suppliers.

“ATPI has a commanding presence in the international travel management space and a strong  history of collaboration with Direct Travel, making them a perfect fit to strengthen our efforts  in delivering exceptional service at scale,” said Christal Bemont, CEO, Direct Travel. “This  partnership represents a pivotal moment in reshaping managed travel, allowing us to deliver  tailored solutions and a seamless experience for clients across a range of sectors and of all  sizes and locations. Together, we will redefine what it means to offer The Perfect Trip on a  global scale.”

“ATPI and Direct Travel have long held a shared vision for reimagining how the world connects,  underpinning a successful commercial partnership. Bringing our two organizations  together will enable us to beRer serve clients collectively, through the combination of our  specialized services, innovative technologies, and highly skilled customer teams,” said Ian  Sinderson, CEO, ATPI. “By bolstering our already strong position in travel technology and highly specialized travel support, we will combine to provide a compelling alternative to mega agencies for global travel throughout our range of extensive geographic markets and business  lines.”

Direct Travel values ATPI’s strong fundamentals, proven strengths in corporate travel and its  deep expertise across specialty markets such as energy, marine, sports, and mining. Specialized industries bring distinct needs and complex challenges. ATPI has proven its ability  to solve them through relentless innovation and the development of proprietary technologies  and services that deliver measurable results. As part of this acquisition, Direct Travel intends to build on ATPI’s successful history and further invest in expanding its market reach and  impact in these specialized segments.

Jefferies LLC served as exclusive financial advisor and Perkins Coie LLP served as legal counsel to Direct Travel. Baird served as exclusive financial advisor to ATPI.

 

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The post Ajman Tourism Rolls Into China with Roadshow Stops in Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Shenzhen appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) has embarked on a five-day promotional tour in China, aiming to strengthen partnerships and position the emirate more prominently on the global tourism map. The roadshow, which began in Shanghai on September 22, will also visit Hangzhou on September 24 and conclude in Shenzhen on September 26.

Led by Mahmood Alhashmi, Director-General of ADTD, the delegation is engaging with Chinese industry leaders to explore new avenues of cooperation and sign agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) that will enhance Ajman’s visibility in one of the world’s largest outbound travel markets.

Talking about the initiative, Alhashmi said: “Currently, Ajman’s tourism sector is experiencing accelerated growth, further underscoring the significance of showcasing our natural, cultural and entertainment treasures. These factors help position Ajman as a world-class tourism destination.” He added: “Through this tour, we seek to highlight our commitment to expanding partnerships with key Chinese market players while exploring new collaboration opportunities that can drive our sustainable tourism development.”

The roadshow aligns with Ajman’s broader strategy of strengthening its ties with major global markets, with China viewed as a priority destination given its scale and appetite for new travel experiences.

During the roadshow, ADTD is presenting Ajman’s portfolio of natural, cultural, and entertainment attractions, alongside upcoming projects that highlight the emirate’s ambition to deliver immersive experiences rooted in authentic Emirati hospitality. By spotlighting Ajman’s diverse tourism offering, ADTD aims to attract more Chinese visitors, boost hotel revenues, generate new employment opportunities, and increase foreign investment in the emirate’s growing tourism sector.

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The post Saudi Arabia Unveils Ambitious Plans to Turn Al-Nahayed Mountains into Tourism Hub appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Development Fund (TDF), in partnership with Hail Municipality, has launched an initiative to transform the Al-Nahayed Mountains in Tuwarin into a premier tourism and entertainment destination. A joint field visit was conducted to begin a comprehensive survey and feasibility study for the planned project, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The initiative is designed to create a five-star integrated tourist and entertainment park, blending the region’s unique natural formations and environmental features with world-class infrastructure.

The municipality highlighted that the project will serve as a central pillar of its investment programmes, most notably the “Ajad investment initiative.” The initiative is focused on building sustainable tourism infrastructure that supports the local economy, generates jobs, and allows investors to harness the region’s rich natural and geographical assets.

Officials emphasised that the partnership with the Tourism Development Fund reflects a strategy of close collaboration with stakeholders to ensure new projects meet international standards while remaining rooted in local culture and resources. The Al-Nahayed development is expected to deliver an integrated tourism experience built on quality and sustainability, reinforcing the Kingdom’s ambition to showcase a modern and forward-looking image of its regions. By linking natural heritage with innovative facilities, the project aims to strengthen Hail’s role as a key tourism hub under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

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The post Hosted buyer applications for AIME 2026 now open appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With AIME 2026 already shaping up to be a standout event, hosted buyer applications are now officially open for the Asia Pacific’s premier business events trade show.

Applications are now open for both international and domestic hosted buyers to take part in the AIME 2026 Hosted Buyer Programme, a three-day experience designed to spark commercial connections, uncover new destinations and suppliers, and deliver real business outcomes.

Participants will benefit from a curated appointment schedule of high-value meetings, access to the Hosted Buyer Lounge, flexible free-flow meeting options, and immersive live activations across the trade show floor.

The AIME Hosted Buyer Programme is renowned for its industry-leading approach to business matching which offers buyers cutting-edge technology to connect with exhibitors that best meet their event needs from leading destinations and venues to AV providers, boutique spaces, caterers, airlines, tour operators, and more.

According to event director Silke Calder: “AIME 2025 was an incredible success, and we’re confident 2026 will raise the bar even higher. The early demand from exhibitors highlights the essential role AIME plays in driving business outcomes across Asia Pacific.”

It’s time to strike whilst the iron is hot, as places in the programme are limited, so early applications are advised. 

Indeed, as of press time, 80 percent of the event’s exhibition space has already been sold or reserved.

Pre-event special

Prior to AIME, hosted buyers will also take part in the Uncover Melbourne Experience on 8th February.

This tour is an inspiring, experiential showcase led by the Melbourne Convention Bureau, designed to immerse guests in the city’s unique potential for creative and memorable business events. 

While optional for domestic buyers, the experience offers valuable insight into what makes Melbourne a standout destination for business events.  

The biggest business event in the Asia Pacific

Scheduled for 9th to 11th February 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), AIME comes back with an expanded footprint across 16,500 sqm to accommodate over 700 exhibitors, 700 hosted buyers, and more than 20,000 pre-scheduled appointments.

Held on days two and three, the AIME trade show floor is where the business happens, featuring a dynamic program of pre-scheduled appointments (PSAs), networking opportunities, and experiential showcases from across the global events sector.

All told, the coming event will be AIME’s biggest edition yet delivered by Calder and her team at Talk2 Media & Events.

Melbourne Convention Bureau chief executive Julia Swanson declares: “We are incredibly proud of the ongoing success of AIME, which has become a key event for the global business events community. AIME brings people together from around the world to our amazing city of Melbourne, and as always we look forward to the new partnerships, connections and opportunities that will come out of the 2026 event.” 

AIME continues to set the benchmark in the region, connecting the global business events community with best-in-class suppliers through a curated program of pre-scheduled meetings, high-impact networking, and innovative event experiences.

Managed by Talk2 Media & Events on behalf of the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB), AIME is the longest-running and most influential business events trade show in the region. 

Indeed, AIME combines human connection with cutting-edge event tech that delivers measurable ROI for buyers and exhibitors alike.

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The post Plaza Premium Group Plants its Flag in Riyadh with New Regional HQ, Celebrating a Decade in Saudi Skies appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has officially opened its new Regional Headquarter Office in Riyadh, its second base in the Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) region. The launch marks a milestone in the Group’s Middle East & Africa expansion and commemorates 10 years of operations in Saudi Arabia. The new office in Riyadh will serve as a central hub to support PPG’s growing portfolio across the Middle East and Africa, covering airport lounges, hotels, meet & greet, fast track, and concierge services.

Talking about the company’s new milestone, Song Hoi See, Founder & CEO of Plaza Premium Group, said: “The opening of our Riyadh regional office is a proud milestone as we advance our presence in Saudi Arabia and broaden our impact across the region. Our local partnerships and talented workforce continue to set new standards in airport hospitality, supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”

The company currently operates in Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, and Red Sea International Airport, serving an average of 100,000 guests every month. It employs more than 350 staff in Saudi Arabia and works closely with government authorities to nurture aviation and hospitality talent. PPG has achieved a Saudisation rate of 60% with a target of 80%, alongside a graduate training programme to prepare the next generation of aviation and hospitality leaders.

Ali Isbulan, Deputy CEO of Plaza Premium Group, added: “This is a landmark occasion as it coincides with our 10th year of serving passengers in the Kingdom. Over the past decade, Plaza Premium Group has had the privilege of working alongside our valued partners, stakeholders, and colleagues in the Kingdom to redefine the travel experience and set new benchmarks in airport hospitality. Saudi Arabia is a cornerstone of our global strategy, and Riyadh is the ideal base for our regional headquarters. This office not only strengthens our operational presence but also serves as a hub for innovation, partnerships, and delivering world-class passenger services that align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”

With the Riyadh headquarters, PPG reinforces its commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s economic growth, investing in local expertise, and expanding its role as a global leader in airport hospitality.

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The post TAT presents “Khao Gaeng” Thai Curry Rice Championship 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and partners proudly present the “Khao Gaeng” Thai Curry Rice Championship 2025, taking place from 17 to 19 October at Phenix Pratunam in Bangkok. The three-day event will celebrate Thailand’s beloved curry rice as a defining symbol of the nation’s culinary identity and a must-taste experience for international visitors.

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “Khao Gaeng, or Thai curry rice, is more than a quick meal. It embodies the diversity of Thai cuisine, with each region offering its own flavours, and is a dish travellers encounter everywhere in Thailand. Affordable and accessible to all, curry rice reflects local culture, with several restaurants even recognised in the Michelin Guide. TAT is committed to positioning it as a must-taste Thai experience for visitors worldwide.”

The initiative is organised by TAT in collaboration with the Thai Restaurant Association, Phenix Pratunam, food delivery platforms LINE MAN Wongnai, Grab and Robinhood, together with KaichefHouse, GlongSaenSuk The Amatatian Resterland, Suan Dusit University and other partners.

The competition will showcase five signature dishes—green curry with chicken (kaeng khiao wan gai), coconut chicken soup (tom kha gai), beef panaeng curry, five-spice egg and pork belly stew (kai palo), and shrimp-paste chilli dip (nam prik kapi). Around 30 curry rice vendors from across Thailand, from street food stalls to mall-based restaurants, are expected to compete.

Contestants must have operated for at least one year and will be judged on taste, quality, creativity and hygiene.

Winners will receive cash prizes, with the champion awarded 100,000 Baht, a trophy, a certificate and the title of Professional Thai Curry Rice Champion. Runners-up will receive cash prizes ranging from 50,000 to 10,000 Baht, along with commemorative plaques and certificates. Additional awards include sales support packages and promotional opportunities from food delivery platforms, reinforcing the competition’s role in supporting small businesses while showcasing Thai culinary heritage on the global stage.

Phenix Pratunam, the competition venue, is positioned as a culinary destination for both locals and international visitors, offering a dedicated Taste Kitchen and a wholesale food hub. Partners including Grab, LINE MAN Wongnai and Robinhood will further amplify the competition with special campaigns, incentives and promotions.

Thailand’s culinary reputation continues to shine worldwide. Signature dishes such as ‘Tomyum Kung’—recognised on UNESCO’s cultural heritage list—stand alongside Michelin-recognised restaurants and regional favourites. With festivals at home and abroad celebrating everything from som tam to fine dining, Thai food is firmly established as a pillar of the nation’s soft power. The Khao Gaeng Championship builds on this success, affirming Thai cuisine as both globally celebrated and central to the travel experience in Thailand.

 

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