Zimbabwe in Talks with Emirates for Direct Dubai-Victoria Falls Flights, Aiming to Boost Tourism Growth, Connectivity and Regional Development

Say hello to new potential partnerships! Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is in the works for new developments, as the country is currently negotiating for a direct flights to be opened from Dubai to Victoria Falls with Emirates Airlines. This ground breaking prospect was discussed at the World Government Summit in the UAE, where president Emmerson Mnanangagwa along with a delegation that included the Minister for tourism, Barbara Rwodzi, met with Emirates officials, including the Deputy president and Chief Commercial Officer of Emirates, Adnan Kazim.

Most of thse meetings revolved around the prospective economic impact of this flight on Zimbabwe’s tourism, as well as the air connectivity of the two nations. A direct flight has the potential to promote Zimbabwe and the country’s tourism offerings and diversity within the scope of the KAZA UniVisa, which is a cross border travel initiative within the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA) tourism region.

Direct Flights: A New Chapter for Victoria Falls International Airport

The proposed direct flight service from Dubai to Victoria Falls could serve as a major milestone for the country’s tourism industry, providing an easier, faster route for international tourists, especially those from the Middle East and Europe. Victoria Falls International Airport, already capable of handling large aircraft such as the Airbus A380, would become a central hub in the KAZA region if the route is established.

By offering direct flights, Emirates would significantly reduce travel time for visitors and make the destination more accessible to the global tourism market. This initiative would align with Zimbabwe’s broader strategy to enhance air travel infrastructure and support tourism growth across the nation, especially in regions such as Victoria Falls which rely heavily on international visitors.

Zimbabwe’s Tourism Recovery and Global Visibility

Zimbabwe’s recognition by Forbes in 2025 as one of the top must-visit destinations in the world has been a vital step forward in the country’s tourism recovery. Minister Barbara Rwodzi acknowledged that Emirates’ involvement in this effort has been crucial in raising Zimbabwe’s profile on the global stage and attracting more visitors to the country.

With Zimbabwe working to diversify its tourism offerings and develop infrastructure to meet increasing demand, the partnership with Emirates could serve as a catalyst for future growth. By promoting Victoria Falls as a regional tourism hub, Zimbabwe is positioning itself as a leading destination in southern Africa, appealing to both leisure travelers and those interested in eco-tourism and adventure tourism.

Leveraging the KAZA UniVisa to Enhance Regional Tourism

One of the central points of the discussions between Zimbabwe and Emirates was how Victoria Falls International Airport could serve as a key gateway to the wider KAZA region. The KAZA UniVisa, which allows travelers to visit multiple countries in the region on a single visa, has already been hailed as an effective tool for simplifying cross-border travel.

With direct flights from Dubai, Zimbabwe would not only boost the number of international visitors to Victoria Falls but also encourage greater tourism flows between Zimbabwe, Zambia, and other KAZA countries. This could create more integrated tourism packages, where travelers can experience a variety of natural wonders and cultural sites across the region, thereby increasing the economic impact of tourism for Zimbabwe and its neighbors.

Emirates’ Strategic Support for Zimbabwe’s Tourism Growth

Emirates has long been a partner in promoting global travel and tourism, and its interest in Victoria Falls represents an opportunity for Zimbabwe to further capitalize on its tourism potential. The establishment of a direct route would not only provide easy access to one of the world’s greatest natural wonders but also create new opportunities for business tourism, particularly in the growing sectors of meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE), which could be significantly enhanced by seamless international flights.

Emirates’ role as a global airline with an extensive international network makes it an ideal partner for helping Zimbabwe attract high-spending tourists, further boosting the country’s tourism infrastructure. The airline’s ability to link Zimbabwe with global markets will make it more competitive in the tourism industry, ensuring that the country remains a top choice for travelers looking for unique and diverse experiences.

The Future of Zimbabwe’s Tourism Industry

Looking ahead, the talks between Zimbabwe and Emirates mark the beginning of an exciting phase in the country’s tourism evolution. Establishing direct connectivity to Victoria Falls would be a monumental achievement for both the airline and the country, creating new opportunities for growth while reinforcing the strategic importance of Victoria Falls as a global tourism hub.

With the backing of Emirates and the growing visibility of Zimbabwe on the world stage, the country is well-positioned to achieve long-term success in the global tourism market. This collaboration could also inspire further partnerships with other international airlines, helping Zimbabwe solidify its position as a premier destination in Southern Africa. As the talks progress and the prospects of a direct Dubai-Victoria Falls route gain momentum, Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is on track for an exciting future, one that will bring economic prosperity and recognition to this incredible country.

A New Era for Zimbabwe’s Tourism Industry

The possible new flights from Dubai to Victoria Falls suggests something more important and promising than a new travel route – the beginning of a new era for Zimbabwe’s tourism. Emirates leading the way, Zimbabwe’s tourism recovery in the coming years is inevitable, placing Victoria Falls at the center of tourism; extending the opportunity to see and experience one of the world’s natural wonders to travelers from all corners of the globe.

With the right Regional, Modern infrastructure and Global partnerships, Zimbabwe is set to be a top tourism destination in Southern Africa. The promise of new direct flights to Dubai, will continue to position Zimbabwe as a leading destination in the growing world of international tourism.

The post Zimbabwe in Talks with Emirates for Direct Dubai-Victoria Falls Flights, Aiming to Boost Tourism Growth, Connectivity and Regional Development appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Why Saudia’s Rapid Growth Means Big Things for Your Next Trip

Saudia Airlines has recorded a significant milestone in 2025, carrying approximately 37 million guests, marking a 6% year-on-year increase in passenger traffic. This growth reflects the airline’s capacity expansion, reliable scheduling, and the sustained demand for Saudi Arabia’s international travel services. With more than 203,900 flights to over 100 destinations, Saudia has solidified its role as a key player in global air travel, continuing to grow its network and bolster international connectivity.

The airline’s performance in 2025 is a testament to its ongoing commitment to providing efficient and reliable services across both long-haul and medium-haul routes. This success is largely attributed to Saudia’s strategic approach in managing flight capacity, optimizing routes, and adjusting to seasonal demand, while also catering to a growing base of transit passengers passing through Saudi Arabia.

A Year of Expansion and Increased Flight Volumes

Saudia’s 2025 results highlight the airline’s continuous efforts to expand its operational footprint. In total, Saudia Airlines operated more than 203,900 flights, a 4.7% increase from 2024, further expanding its route network and facilitating more global connections. The airline’s total flight hours for the year reached approximately 597,000 hours, a 2.5% rise, reflecting increased activity, greater flight frequency, and higher capacity deployment across its global network.

The steady growth of passenger traffic is also a result of Saudia’s proactive planning. With its fleet of both narrowbody and widebody aircraft, the airline has been able to absorb higher traffic volumes without compromising on flight efficiency. This careful management of operations has ensured that Saudia could meet the needs of both domestic and international travelers while maintaining a focus on punctuality and reliability.

Expanding Network and Connectivity

Saudia’s strategy in 2025 also involved the further expansion of its international network, including new destinations like Moscow, enhancing connectivity between Saudi Arabia and Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. This expansion aligns with the broader objectives of the Saudi Aviation Strategy, which aims to increase the Kingdom’s international connectivity and drive growth in tourism.

New scheduled and seasonal routes formed part of Saudia’s effort to increase reach, particularly on key tourism and religious travel routes. One of the main factors driving demand has been the significant uptick in Hajj and Umrah traffic, with Saudia providing crucial connections to and from the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The airline’s strategic route planning supports Saudi Arabia’s position as a key destination for religious tourism, and the increased number of flights during peak seasons helps accommodate the thousands of religious visitors each year.

Transit Traffic Growth: A Key Driver for Saudia

In addition to increasing its direct flight services, Saudia has successfully expanded its transit traffic. The airline recorded over 3.2 million transit passengers in 2025, an 8.4% increase compared to the previous year. This surge reflects Saudia’s ability to capture demand for connecting flights through Saudi Arabia, with a well-coordinated schedule between long-haul services and regional feeder flights. The airline’s network ensures smoother transitions for passengers traveling from destinations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, facilitating easy access to a variety of global locations.

The rise in transit passengers has also been supported by Saudia’s schedule coordination, ensuring higher load factors on intercontinental flights. This connectivity plays a crucial role in supporting the Kingdom’s economic and tourism goals, enabling Saudi Arabia to become a more integral part of the global travel landscape.

Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism and Economic Growth

Saudia’s growth directly supports the Kingdom’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which targets moving 330 million guests annually and connecting 250 global destinations by 2030. As part of this strategy, Saudia plays a central role in meeting the country’s tourism objectives by facilitating both leisure and business travel.

With Saudi Arabia positioning itself as a major player in global tourism, Saudia’s operations support the influx of international visitors drawn to the Kingdom’s growing number of attractions. The airline’s expansion efforts are aligned with Saudi Arabia’s vision to attract more tourists to its cities and cultural landmarks, including the Red Sea Project, Riyadh, and Al-Ula, as well as the Kingdom’s many modern and historical sites.

Continued Focus on Reliability and Efficiency

One of the defining factors in Saudia’s ability to scale its operations successfully is its focus on schedule reliability and operational efficiency. Despite the increase in flight volumes, Saudia has managed to maintain its reputation for punctuality. This focus on on-time performance has contributed to a greater level of customer satisfaction, ensuring that passengers experience smooth, reliable journeys.

Saudia’s efficiency improvements are not limited to its flight operations. The airline has also worked to streamline its ground operations, from check-in procedures to baggage handling, ensuring that passengers have a seamless experience from start to finish. This emphasis on service quality continues to build Saudia’s reputation as a premier airline in the Middle East.

What’s Next for Saudia and Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Industry?

Looking to the future, Saudia Airlines is poised to continue its growth, with more routes, increased passenger traffic, and enhanced connectivity all on the horizon. The airline will continue to support the goals of the Saudi Vision 2030 plan, which includes further integration of the Kingdom into global tourism and business networks. With Saudia at the forefront, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming a central hub for international travel.

As the airline continues to expand its reach and operational capacity, travelers can expect a broader selection of flights, smoother connections, and increased convenience on their journeys to and from Saudi Arabia. Whether for business, leisure, or religious travel, Saudia Airlines is helping make Saudi Arabia one of the world’s most accessible destinations.

The post Why Saudia’s Rapid Growth Means Big Things for Your Next Trip appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Emirates Celebrates Two Decades of Connecting Thiruvananthapuram, Dubai, and Major Global Hubs, Boosting Kerala’s Tourism and Trade – Here’s What to Know About Its Impact

Emirates, the renowned Dubai-based airline, has reached an important milestone, celebrating 20 years of operations in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, India. The airline has been a key player in strengthening global connectivity for this vibrant southern Indian state, facilitating travel, tourism, and trade. Over the years, Emirates has transported more than 4.6 million passengers and carried over 34,000 tonnes of cargo, all of which has contributed significantly to Kerala’s economy and international outreach.

Since it began operations on February 1, 2006, Emirates has established a vital air bridge connecting Thiruvananthapuram with the rest of the world. The airline’s direct flights between Dubai and Thiruvananthapuram have fostered strong relationships between Kerala and the global markets, promoting business ties, tourism, and cultural exchange. Emirates operates several routes linking Kerala to major international hubs, boosting tourism and commerce across regions.

Emirates: A Lifeline for Kerala’s Tourism and Economy

For 20 years, Emirates has not only offered passengers in Thiruvananthapuram a gateway to Dubai, but also to a host of global destinations across six continents. The airline connects travelers to major cities like London, New York, San Francisco, and Toronto, ensuring that Kerala’s unique culture and heritage receive international attention.

Moreover, Emirates has been instrumental in facilitating inbound tourism to Kerala. With its seamless connection to Dubai, Kerala’s beaches, backwaters, temples, and hill stations have seen increased international footfall. Tourists from around the globe can now visit the land of Ayurveda and tourism hotspots with ease, thanks to the convenience and comfort offered by Emirates flights.

A Legacy of International Trade and Connectivity

Over the years, Emirates has been at the forefront of supporting Kerala’s export economy, particularly through its SkyCargo division. The cargo wing has uplifted 34,000 tonnes of goods since 2019, including perishable items like seafood, vegetables, and other essential exports, ensuring that these products reach international markets quickly and efficiently. This service is vital for Kerala’s farmers and exporters, allowing them to tap into markets across the world, thereby boosting local businesses.

Through its extensive cargo network, Emirates has played an essential role in fostering trade between Kerala and countries in the Middle East, Europe, North America, and beyond. The airline’s specialized logistics services have facilitated the shipment of high-value and time-sensitive goods, giving local businesses a competitive edge in the global marketplace.

Thiruvananthapuram: A Key Hub in Emirates’ South India Network

Thiruvananthapuram, though not as large as India’s major cities, holds strategic importance in Emirates’ South India network. The airline connects the city with Dubai, a global hub, serving not just as a transit point but as a destination in itself for international travelers. The presence of Emirates has enabled seamless connections between Thiruvananthapuram and major cities worldwide, creating a gateway for business professionals, tourists, and expatriates traveling to and from Kerala.

In addition to passenger traffic, Emirates’ partnership with local authorities, including the Kerala State Government, has strengthened the tourism and trade ecosystem, fostering an environment that promotes further investments in Kerala’s infrastructure and development.

Tips for Travelers Visiting Thiruvananthapuram

If you’re planning to travel to Thiruvananthapuram, here are some travel tips to ensure your visit is seamless:

• Best Time to Visit: Kerala’s tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, but the best months to visit are from November to February, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
• Travel Around Kerala: Once in Thiruvananthapuram, take time to explore the famous backwaters in Alleppey and Kumarakom, as well as the beautiful Varkala beach.
• Cultural Experience: Don’t miss the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a significant religious site in Thiruvananthapuram. The Sree Chitra Art Gallery and the Napier Museum offer a peek into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
• Visa Information: Visitors from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and the European Union can avail of a Dubai Transit Visa to easily connect to Dubai before heading to Kerala.
• Air Connectivity: Emirates offers smooth connections through Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest airports. From there, you can easily reach your destination in Thiruvananthapuram and other parts of India.

Looking Forward: Emirates’ Long-Term Commitment to Kerala

As Emirates celebrates its two-decade-long journey with Thiruvananthapuram, it reaffirms its commitment to supporting the growth of tourism, trade, and global connections in Kerala. The airline’s contribution to economic development in the region has been significant, and its operations continue to strengthen Kerala’s position on the global map.

In the coming years, Emirates plans to continue supporting Kerala’s growth while ensuring travelers enjoy seamless connections to the Middle East, Europe, North America, and beyond. The airline’s role in enhancing tourism and trade will remain a driving force for Kerala’s economy and cultural outreach.

The post Emirates Celebrates Two Decades of Connecting Thiruvananthapuram, Dubai, and Major Global Hubs, Boosting Kerala’s Tourism and Trade – Here’s What to Know About Its Impact appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Amman City Airport Welcomes Jazeera Airways Inaugural Flight – What It Means for Travel to Jordan

In a historic move for both aviation and the Middle East travel market, Jazeera Airways has launched its first direct scheduled commercial flight from Kuwait to Amman City Airport (ADJ). This milestone marks the first time an airline has operated direct flights between the two airports, establishing a significant new link in air travel between Jordan and Kuwait.

The inaugural flight, which touched down on February 1, 2026, at Amman City Airport, was celebrated as a key development in the airport’s reopening and operational activation. Jazeera Airways, Kuwait’s leading low-cost carrier, has been serving Amman for nearly two decades, but this marks the first time the airline has operated flights directly into Amman City Airport, a more convenient gateway to the Jordanian capital.

A New Era for Amman’s Aviation Landscape

Amman City Airport, located just 10 kilometers from the heart of Amman, offers travelers a more efficient airport experience with shorter transfer times compared to the city’s main airport, Queen Alia International Airport. The proximity of Amman City Airport to central Amman is a key advantage for business travelers and tourists alike, reducing the time and cost it takes to reach the city from the airport.

The development of Amman City Airport as a functional and competitive alternative to Queen Alia is part of a larger initiative by the Jordanian government to boost regional and international connectivity. The strategic location of the airport, combined with the Jazeera Airways flights, has the potential to significantly enhance the airport’s traffic and tourism footprint in the region. (jordan.gov.jo)

A Strong Partnership for Regional Connectivity

The partnership between Jazeera Airways and Amman City Airport is a promising one for regional air travel. Ahmed Azzam, CEO of Jordan Airport Company, hailed the arrival of Jazeera Airways as a key milestone. In his statement, Azzam emphasized that the airline’s new routes further cement Amman City Airport’s role in strengthening air connectivity within the region, contributing to sustainable aviation growth in Jordan.

Azzam also pointed out that the addition of Jazeera Airways flights would not only benefit passengers but also boost economic activity in Jordan, enhancing the country’s position as a regional aviation hub. He expressed optimism about long-term growth, as more airlines and passengers use Amman City Airport as a primary point of entry into the capital.

Jazeera Airways Sets Sights on Expanded Regional Access

Barathan Pasupathi, the CEO of Jazeera Airways, shared his excitement about the inaugural flight and the airline’s long-term goals. Pasupathi remarked that this was a significant milestone for the airline, as it marked the first time Jazeera Airways had operated scheduled flights to Amman City Airport. He noted that the move aligns with the airline’s broader commitment to improving regional connectivity by providing smarter access points for travelers across the Middle East.

Pasupathi explained that flying into Amman City Airport would allow the airline to provide passengers with faster access to the Jordanian capital, helping to lower costs for travelers while offering them a seamless travel experience. By operating out of Amman City Airport, Jazeera Airways is also offering more convenient travel options to Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf destinations.

The Future of Air Travel Between Kuwait and Amman

The introduction of Jazeera Airways flights to Amman City Airport is expected to lead to increased demand for flights between Kuwait and Amman, with both business travelers and tourists taking advantage of the newly available route. Jazeera Airways’ reputation for providing affordable flights means that both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking convenience will find the route appealing.

Given Jazeera Airways’ focus on providing affordable travel options, the airline is set to play a vital role in opening up Jordan to more regional tourists. The ease of access to the capital city will also provide a gateway to explore other parts of Jordan, including famous sites such as Petra, the Dead Sea, and the Jordan Valley.

With the added convenience and affordability that Jazeera Airways offers, the airline is poised to make a substantial impact on Jordan’s tourism sector, helping to boost the country’s recovery post-pandemic and support economic growth by attracting more visitors from across the Gulf region.

Amman City Airport’s Role in Shaping Future Travel

The opening of Amman City Airport has already led to a positive shift in travel habits, providing travelers with more options and better accessibility. The addition of Jazeera Airways to the list of airlines operating at the airport strengthens its position as an important regional airport, well-connected to major cities in the Middle East.

The Jordanian government is also focused on ensuring that the airport’s infrastructure keeps pace with the growing demand for air travel. By supporting key projects and partnering with airlines such as Jazeera Airways, Jordan is taking significant steps to create a thriving hub that attracts travelers from all corners of the globe.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Regional Travel

The launch of Jazeera Airways’ inaugural flight to Amman City Airport marks the beginning of a new era in regional air connectivity for both Kuwait and Jordan. With increased flight options, a modern airport, and a growing partnership between Jazeera Airways and the Jordan Airport Company, passengers can expect faster, more affordable travel between the two countries. This move not only enhances the travel experience for tourists and business travelers but also strengthens Jordan’s role as a key player in Middle Eastern aviation.

As Jazeera Airways continues to grow its network across the region, passengers will enjoy the benefits of more accessible, affordable travel in the heart of the Middle East, with Amman City Airport playing a key role in that transformation.

The post Amman City Airport Welcomes Jazeera Airways Inaugural Flight – What It Means for Travel to Jordan appeared first on Travel And Tour World.