Bahrain’s Aviation Safety Week Highlights Key Challenges and Innovations, Here’s All You Need to Know

The Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), which manages the Bahrain International Airport (BIA), has kicked off its annual Safety Week at the Mövenpick Hotel. This campaign aims to emphasize the significance of aviation safety in all airport operations. This activity also shows the airport’s dedication to upholding the highest safety standards, which include compliance with the Safety Management System (SMS) regulatory requirements for the airport’s aerodrome certification.

Promoting a Culture of Safety at Bahrain International Airport

Safety Week serves as a critical platform to reinforce Bahrain International Airport’s commitment to operational excellence in aviation safety. It brought together aviation professionals, regulatory bodies, and industry partners under the theme “Human Factors in Aviation Safety.” This theme emphasizes the role of human performance in maintaining safety, recognizing that it is just as vital as technology, infrastructure, and systems in preventing accidents and ensuring smooth operations.

By focusing on human factors, the initiative aims to enhance the awareness and decision-making processes among all stakeholders involved in airport operations. The goal is to foster a culture where every individual within the airport community, from staff to management, shares responsibility for safety.

Collaboration Between Key Industry Players

The opening day of Safety Week featured several technical sessions and knowledge-sharing activities. One of the sessions, titled ‘The Human Factors at Bahrain International Airport,’ presented by BAC’s Aerodrome Safety and Compliance team, provided insights into the operational challenges and ongoing improvement efforts at the airport. This session highlighted how the airport is actively addressing local safety issues and refining processes to improve operational standards.

Another session, titled ‘Human Factors and Aviation,’ was presented by Arabian Petroleum Supply Company (APSCO), offering a broader view of human performance and risk management within the aviation industry. By examining global perspectives, this session sought to align Bahrain’s safety standards with international best practices, enhancing the airport’s compliance with global aviation safety protocols.

In addition to these sessions, a panel discussion titled ‘Challenges Across Bahrain’s Industries’ brought together leaders from various sectors, including Bahrain Airport Services (BAS), Bapco Refining, Bahrain Health and Safety Society, GPIC, and Alba. The panelists discussed shared challenges and opportunities for collaboration across industries to improve safety performance. The discussion highlighted the importance of cross-industry learning and the need for a unified approach to safety management, which can ultimately contribute to a safer environment for both airport employees and travelers.

Hands-On Safety Activities to Engage Stakeholders

As part of the comprehensive Safety Week programme, BAC organized an exhibition at Bahrain International Airport, which featured the participation of key airport stakeholders. This exhibition aimed to educate the public, airport staff, and visitors on the best practices in aviation safety, as well as the innovative safety measures being implemented at BIA. Through this exhibition, BAC highlighted the importance of safety awareness and proactive hazard identification in daily airport operations.

In addition to the exhibition, a Foreign Object Debris (FOD) Walk on the runway was also scheduled as part of the program. This activity is crucial in preventing runway safety incidents, as even the smallest foreign object can pose a significant threat to aircraft operations. The FOD Walk encouraged participants to actively engage in identifying and removing hazards from the runway, reinforcing the shared responsibility of maintaining a safe operating environment.

Impact on Tourism and Travel in Bahrain

The implementation of comprehensive safety initiatives, such as Safety Week, directly benefits tourists and travelers by ensuring a secure and efficient travel experience. For visitors arriving in Bahrain, the awareness and commitment to aviation safety across the airport’s operations help guarantee a smooth and safe journey from check-in to arrival.

Bahrain International Airport serves as a critical gateway for both tourism and business travel in the region. As the country seeks to position itself as a premier destination for tourists and investors, enhancing safety standards within its airport operations is key to attracting more international visitors. A strong safety culture not only ensures the well-being of travelers but also strengthens the confidence of tourists and business professionals in Bahrain’s infrastructure and service standards.

As Bahrain continues to develop its tourism sector, the emphasis on aviation safety is becoming increasingly important. International tourists expect world-class safety standards at airports, and the proactive approach taken by Bahrain Airport Company positions the country as a reliable and secure destination in the Middle East.

Supporting the UAE and Regional Aviation Goals

Bahrain’s commitment to high safety standards also aligns with the broader aviation objectives of the GCC region, where many countries are investing heavily in modernizing airport facilities and improving operational safety. The success of Bahrain’s Safety Week highlights the country’s ability to lead in regional aviation safety initiatives, reinforcing its position as a key player in the Middle East’s aviation and tourism sectors.

The event also complements the broader goals of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s National Tourism Strategy, which aims to increase the number of international visitors and enhance the quality of tourism services. The safety measures outlined during the week align with the strategy’s objectives of improving infrastructure and services to accommodate the growing demand for travel.

Building a Stronger Future for Aviation Safety

In addition to its impact on tourism, the Safety Week initiative supports the ongoing development of Bahrain’s aviation industry. By focusing on human factors and safety management, BAC is investing in its workforce and reinforcing the importance of a safety-conscious culture. This investment in human capital is critical for ensuring that all employees are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to evolving safety challenges.

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UAE’s Winter Tourism Campaign Boosts Global Visibility and Local Economy, Everything You Need to Know

The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has announced the successful completion of the sixth edition of the “World’s Coolest Winter” campaign, which lasted for six weeks from December 16, 2025. The campaign, with the slogan “Our Winter is Entrepreneurial,” was a national initiative aimed at promoting the UAE’s tourism offerings and establishing the UAE as a tourist destination throughout the year. The current campaign has achieved impressive outcomes, including substantial growth in hotel revenue, hotel occupancy, and international attention.

A Nationwide Effort to Boost Domestic Tourism

The World’s Coolest Winter campaign was implemented in collaboration with tourism authorities across all seven emirates, aligning with the UAE’s broader strategy for domestic tourism. With its focus on showcasing the UAE’s rich and diverse tourism assets—from sun-kissed beaches and tranquil islands to nature reserves and cultural landmarks—the campaign offered both local and international visitors a glimpse into the many experiences available in the UAE during the winter season.

A key element of this year’s campaign was to spotlight the role of entrepreneurs and startups in shaping the future of tourism in the UAE. Through the promotion of innovative, entrepreneurial-led tourism experiences, the campaign emphasized the UAE’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and competitive tourism market. By incorporating green, environmental, and agricultural tourism initiatives, the campaign also supported sustainable travel practices, reflecting the UAE’s growing efforts to diversify its tourism offerings.

Achieving Strong Hotel Revenue Growth

One of the most significant achievements of the World’s Coolest Winter 2026 campaign was its contribution to the UAE’s booming hospitality sector. Hotel revenues for the six-week campaign period reached AED 12.5 billion ($3.4 billion), marking a substantial increase compared to previous editions. This growth is indicative of the campaign’s effectiveness in attracting more visitors and encouraging longer stays, as well as the increasing popularity of the UAE as a tourism destination during the winter months.

With more than 5 million hotel guests, this year’s campaign saw a 5% increase in hotel occupancy compared to the previous edition, with overall occupancy reaching 84%. This uptick in hotel bookings and higher occupancy rates suggest that the UAE is becoming an increasingly desirable destination for tourists, particularly during the cooler winter months, when its weather is ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Global Reach and Impact

The World’s Coolest Winter campaign achieved impressive international visibility. Over the course of the campaign, it generated more than 300 million views and reached an audience of over 1.5 billion people globally. This was made possible through collaborations with 53 local and international content creators, who shared their experiences of the UAE’s unique offerings across multiple platforms. These efforts generated over 1.8 million engagements, helping to further establish the UAE as a top-tier global travel destination.

In addition to promoting the country’s diverse tourism attractions, the campaign highlighted the growing global confidence in the UAE’s tourism sector. It served as a testament to the effectiveness of the UAE’s strategic investments in tourism infrastructure, which have helped shape the country as a leader in the travel and tourism industry.

Supporting Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Tourism

The World’s Coolest Winter campaign was not just about increasing tourism revenue; it also aimed to highlight the contributions of local entrepreneurs and startups to the UAE’s tourism ecosystem. By showcasing pioneering tourism products and initiatives led by young Emirati entrepreneurs, the campaign promoted innovative travel technologies, from advanced tools for travel planning to immersive tourism experiences that bring local culture and heritage to life.

In addition to supporting entrepreneurship, the campaign also emphasized the UAE’s commitment to sustainability. Green tourism initiatives, such as nature reserves and eco-friendly travel products, were promoted as part of the campaign’s broader focus on environmental consciousness. The support for agricultural tourism projects also highlighted the UAE’s diverse offerings and its efforts to promote sustainable practices within the sector.

A Growing Tourism and Travel Sector

The success of the World’s Coolest Winter campaign is reflective of the broader growth of the UAE’s tourism and travel sector. In 2025, the UAE recorded hotel revenues of approximately AED 44.4 billion, driven by 29.1 million guests and nearly 99.4 million hotel nights. This growth is consistent with the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals, which focus on diversifying the economy and positioning the country as a global leader in tourism and hospitality.

Additionally, the UAE’s aviation sector has seen robust growth, with passenger traffic projected to reach 159 million by the end of 2025. These figures underscore the country’s increasing attractiveness as a travel hub for both leisure and business travelers from around the world.

Recognition and International Accolades

The World’s Coolest Winter campaign not only boosted the UAE’s domestic tourism industry but also contributed to the country’s growing international recognition. In 2025, the UAE ranked among the top seven global destinations for international tourist spending, further reinforcing its status as a high-demand destination for global travelers.

The success of the tourism sector in the UAE was also marked by the election of Shaikha Al Nowais as the Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organization and the naming of Al Ain as the Capital of Arab Tourism for 2026. The UAE also saw Masfout Village win the 2025 Best Tourism Village award, adding to its list of achievements in the tourism sector.

UAE’s Position as a Leading Global Tourism Destination

The World’s Coolest Winter 2026 campaign has firmly established the UAE as a year-round tourism destination that offers a rich variety of experiences for both local and international visitors. With its significant contributions to the UAE’s hospitality and tourism revenue, the campaign also highlighted the growing role of entrepreneurship, sustainable practices, and innovative tourism products in the country’s tourism sector.

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Direct Flights from Singapore to Riyadh Now Set to Boost Saudi Tourism and Business, Get the Details Here

In a major step to improve connectivity and promote economic links, the Air Connectivity Programme (ACP) of Saudi Arabia and Singapore Airlines have entered into a new cooperation agreement. This new cooperation will bring about a direct air service between Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, and Singapore, which will provide a direct air service that will promote growth in tourism, trade, and logistics. This new service will be a major step in improving air connectivity between the two countries.

New Direct Air Route Between Riyadh and Singapore

Starting in June 2026, Singapore Airlines will begin operating the first direct flights between Singapore Changi International Airport (SIN) and King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh. The new service will operate four times a week, utilizing the A350-900 aircraft, which has a seating capacity of 303 passengers per flight. With an annual capacity of 126,048 passengers, this new route will significantly enhance the air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and Southeast Asia.

The establishment of this direct air route is expected to make travel between the two countries more convenient and efficient. By eliminating the need for connecting flights, travelers will benefit from shorter travel times and a more seamless journey, making Riyadh a more accessible destination for tourists and business travelers from Singapore and the surrounding regions.

Supporting Tourism and Trade Growth

This new direct air route is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to strengthen its position as a regional hub for air transport. The direct connection between Riyadh and Singapore will not only boost tourism but will also enhance trade and investment flows between the two countries. Singapore, with its dynamic economy and position as a key business hub in Asia, is an important partner for Saudi Arabia. This new air service will enable better business travel options, while also encouraging tourism between the two countries.

The introduction of direct flights will provide travelers from Singapore with greater access to the Kingdom’s thriving tourism sector. Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a premier tourist destination, and this new route will support efforts to bring in more international visitors, especially from Southeast Asia. With significant cultural, historical, and religious sites, Saudi Arabia is a rising destination for travelers seeking new experiences. This direct flight route will provide a more direct connection to explore Saudi Arabia’s diverse offerings, from the vibrant city of Riyadh to the Red Sea coastline and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

Enhancing Air Connectivity for Business and Leisure

Beyond tourism, the new air route also serves the growing demand for business travel between Riyadh and Singapore. As Riyadh emerges as one of the most dynamic cities in the Middle East, the city’s business environment is thriving, with increasing numbers of international companies and investors looking to capitalize on opportunities in the Kingdom. The new direct flight route will make it easier for business professionals to travel between the two cities, facilitating collaboration, partnerships, and trade.

Moreover, the link will enhance Saudi Arabia’s standing as a logistics hub, as the Kingdom continues to invest heavily in infrastructure and connectivity. The government’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy aims to position Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub and connectivity platform. By improving air connectivity with Southeast Asia, this new route is an important step towards realizing these ambitions, enabling smoother movement of goods and services between the Kingdom and key Southeast Asian markets.

The Strategic Role of Singapore Airlines in Expanding Global Networks

Singapore Airlines has long been a leader in international air travel, and this partnership with Saudi Arabia further underscores its role in connecting key global destinations. The airline’s return to Riyadh highlights the growing importance of Saudi Arabia’s economic and business landscape, particularly in Riyadh, which has become one of the most exciting and dynamic cities in the Middle East.

Singapore Airlines‘ commitment to expanding its network into Riyadh is aligned with the airline’s goal of offering more travel options for its customers across the region. This new route to Riyadh will not only serve passengers traveling directly between Singapore and Saudi Arabia but will also provide connections to a wider range of destinations through Singapore Airlines’ extensive network, particularly in Southeast Asia, Europe, and beyond. This move reflects the airline’s confidence in the strong demand for travel to Saudi Arabia and its broader Middle Eastern network.

Enhancing National and Regional Tourism Objectives

The new air route also plays a critical role in achieving the goals of Saudi Arabia’s national tourism strategy. The Kingdom has set ambitious targets to attract millions of international tourists as part of its Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce its reliance on oil exports. Tourism is seen as a key pillar of this strategy, and increasing air connectivity is essential to achieving these goals.

The direct flight service between Riyadh and Singapore is an important step in this direction, as it facilitates easier access for tourists from one of the world’s leading tourism markets. With the global tourism industry showing signs of recovery, enhancing air connectivity with major international hubs like Singapore can help Saudi Arabia tap into new visitor segments and drive growth in its tourism sector.

A Milestone for Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Strategy

This partnership between Saudi Arabia and Singapore Airlines represents a key milestone in the Kingdom’s broader aviation strategy. The introduction of direct flights between Riyadh and Singapore highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global aviation sector and its efforts to become a more connected and accessible destination for international travelers. As the Kingdom continues to expand its air travel network, this direct route will contribute to the overall growth of both tourism and business travel, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a central player in global connectivity.

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Scotland’s Pubs and Bars Face Rising Costs and Staff Shortages, Impacting Tourism, Here’s All You Need to Know

The hospitality industry in Scotland, which includes pubs, bars, and licensed venues, is still facing a number of economic challenges, as highlighted by the bi-annual snapshot survey conducted by the Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA). The survey, which took place in January 2026 and includes more than 400 licensed establishments in Scotland, presents a worrying scenario for one of the most significant sectors of the country’s economy. Increased costs of doing business and lack of consumer confidence are some of the key reasons for this difficult environment.

Rising Costs and Economic Uncertainty

The survey found that a significant 73% of hospitality outlets reported a decline in profitability when compared to the previous year. Of those, 42% experienced a drop of over 10% in their profitability, highlighting the severe pressure many businesses are under. The most pressing challenges identified by the survey include increases in energy costs, national insurance contributions, and a decline in footfall due to lower consumer spending. These escalating costs are outpacing inflation rates, with 68% of outlets facing increases of over 10%, making it difficult for many establishments to maintain profitability.

As Scotland’s hospitality industry struggles with these financial pressures, the impact is felt across various levels of the economy. Pubs, bars, and restaurants are essential contributors to Scotland’s tourism industry, and their ability to remain operational is crucial for both the local economy and the broader tourism sector. Lower profitability means fewer funds available for reinvestment, limiting opportunities for growth and innovation, and putting the future of many businesses at risk.

Impact on Jobs and Employment in the Hospitality Sector

Staff availability remains a persistent challenge within the hospitality industry. Despite a slight improvement in the availability of staff compared to previous surveys, the sector still faces difficulties in recruiting and retaining skilled workers. This staffing shortage further exacerbates the difficulties of running a profitable business and impacts service quality, which is crucial for attracting both local customers and tourists.

With tourism being a major economic driver in Scotland, the inability of hospitality businesses to fully operate due to staffing shortages or financial strain can deter potential visitors. Tourists are more likely to choose destinations where hospitality services are consistent, reliable, and of high quality. If businesses continue to struggle with staffing, Scotland’s reputation as a prime tourist destination could suffer, affecting the overall travel experience for visitors.

Consumer Confidence and Spending Patterns

The ongoing financial pressures on hospitality outlets are closely tied to changing consumer behavior. With rising costs of living and lower disposable incomes, many consumers are spending less on discretionary services such as dining out, drinking in pubs, and visiting bars. As a result, hospitality venues are experiencing a decline in footfall, and a significant portion of establishments are seeing lower revenues compared to previous years.

The survey also highlighted that only 40% of outlets believe that extended hours during the 2026 World Cup will boost their business. This suggests a more cautious outlook for the sector, even with major events that typically drive tourism and visitor spending. The combination of rising operational costs and shrinking consumer spending power has created an environment where even major events may not be enough to counterbalance the sector’s ongoing financial struggles.

Economic Policy and Government Action

As Scotland heads into the Holyrood elections in May 2026, the hospitality sector is urging both the Scottish and UK governments to take immediate action to address the challenges facing the industry. The SLTA’s survey found that 86% of respondents felt that neither the Scottish nor UK governments’ economic policies were aligned with the needs of the hospitality sector. Specifically, the SLTA is calling for two key policy changes: reforming business rates and reducing VAT for the hospitality sector. These reforms are seen as essential to ensuring that businesses can operate sustainably in the current economic environment.

The Republic of Ireland’s decision to reduce VAT for the hospitality sector to 9% has been cited as a positive example, and there is growing pressure for Scotland and the UK to adopt similar measures. The sector also seeks an immediate review of commercial rates, following the negative impacts of recent rate revaluations in Northern Ireland. The ability to introduce favorable policies that support the sector’s financial viability will be critical in ensuring the sustainability of Scotland’s hospitality businesses and, by extension, the country’s tourism industry.

Forecast for 2026: Stability or Decline?

Looking ahead to 2026, the outlook for Scotland’s hospitality sector remains grim. The survey revealed that 72% of respondents expect economic conditions to decline further in the coming year, with the majority forecasting either stability or a slight decline in trading. The looming threat of business closures is a real concern, with 14% of outlets considering or planning to shut down. While 63% of businesses expect to break even or remain profitable in 2026, the challenges remain substantial.

Despite these setbacks, there are some positive signs for the future of the sector. Trends such as the growing demand for stouts, low-alcohol drinks, and cocktails suggest that the industry may be able to adapt to changing consumer preferences and introduce new offerings that can drive revenue. However, these adjustments will not be enough to overcome the broader economic pressures unless more robust government support is provided.

The Importance of Immediate Action

The hospitality sector’s struggles in Scotland are not just an issue for business owners; they are an issue for the entire economy. Pubs, bars, and restaurants are critical components of the tourism industry, providing jobs, cultural experiences, and vital services for both locals and tourists. As such, it is essential that both the Scottish and UK governments take immediate action to alleviate the pressures facing this sector.

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