More airlines have been been awarded for all sorts of brilliance and new experiences are elevating the traveller experience at airports. An airline records the lowest complaint rate while a new terminal is set to boost visitor numbers. Here’s a quick snapshot of the aviation scene around MENA.
flyadeal announes Pakistan flights in major expansion drive, and records lowest complaint rate in November, achieving 99% resolution
flyadeal has announced scheduled flights to Karachi, Pakistan, starting 2 February 2025. Marking the airline’s first scheduled services to Pakistan and South Asia, flights will operate twice-weekly from Riyadh and Jeddah. This expansion is part of flyadeal’s international growth strategy, with plans to add more destinations in South Asia, Europe, Middle East, and North Africa over the next 12 months. Read the full story here.
Meanwhile, in November, the airline reported the fewest complaints among its competitors, with 11 complaints per 100,000 travellers and a 99% resolution rate, according to the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). flynas followed closely, registering 12 complaints per 100,000 travellers and achieving a 100% resolution rate. Saudia was third, with 13 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 99% resolution rate. GACA’s classification index aims to inform passengers about service provider performance, aiding in more informed travel decisions.
Riyadh Air’s cabin crew fashion garners multiple awards ahead of 2025 launch
Riyadh Air’s cabin crew uniforms, unveiled at Paris Haute Couture Week in June 2024, have received international acclaim, securing several prestigious awards. TheDesignAir recognised the airline with the “Best New Uniform 2024” award, while the Professional Clothing Industry Association Worldwide (PCIAW) honoured it with the “Best Uniform” accolade. The airline’s reveal campaign also won four categories at the 2024 Middle East Public Relations Association (MEPRA) Awards. These uniforms, designed in collaboration with Saudi haute couture designer Ashi Studio, blend luxurious fabrics and royal colour palettes with patterns inspired by Arabic calligraphy, reflecting both the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and modern sophistication. Riyadh Air is set to commence its commercial flights in 2025.
Saudia wins Cabin Crew of the Year at Aviation Business Middle East Awards 2024
Saudia has been awarded “Cabin Crew of the Year” at the 18th Aviation Business Middle East Awards, highlighting the airline’s commitment to providing exceptional service and enhancing the guest experience. This achievement follows other recent accolades, including the Business Traveler U.S. Award for Best Airline Cabin Crew. Saudia continues to improve its service offerings through investments in AI technology, fleet modernization, and upgraded in-flight amenities.
King Khalid International Airport leads Saudi Arabia’s airport rankings
Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) released its November 2024 evaluation of the Kingdom’s airports, assessing 11 operational performance standards to enhance services and ensure seamless traveller experiences. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh topped the list with an 82% compliance rate, followed by King Fahd International Airport in Dammam and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, both achieving 91%. Several airports, including Abha International Airport, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Airport in Jizan, Arar International Airport, and Gurayat Airport, reached a perfect 100% compliance rate, demonstrating exceptional performance in critical passengerΒ touchpoints.
flydubai opens new Business Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport
flydubai has unveiled its new Business Class Lounge at Terminal 2, Dubai International (DXB). Located just beyond passport control in the Terminal 2 Departure area, the 900 sqm lounge has the capacity to accommodate just over 200 people. It features a glass facade offering tarmac views and natural light, with design elements inspired by desert dunes. Amenities include a range of dining options, shower facilities, a prayer room, complimentary Wi-Fi, workstations, and multiple charging stations. Back in October, flydubai had also introduced a dedicated Business Class check-in area at Terminal 2, enhancing the premium passenger experience.
SalamAir introduces new services to enhance travel flexibility
SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost airline, is introducing three new services in January 2025 to enhance passenger travel experiences. The offerings include Express Bag for priority luggage handling, Priority for additional 10kg carry-on, priority boarding, and dedicated check-in, and Online Check-In, which saves passengers OMR 1 ($2.60). According to CEO Adrian Hamilton-Manns, these initiatives aim to provide personalised and affordable travel options, allowing passengers to choose desired services and reduceΒ travelΒ costs.
Dubai International Airport launches Emirati District to empower young entrepreneurs
The Federal Youth Authority, in partnership with the Fatima bint Mohammed bin Zayed Initiative, has inaugurated the Emirati District at Dubai International Airport (DXB) as part of the National Youth Agenda 2031. This initiative aims to establish young Emiratis as global role models and facilitate their access to international markets. Strategically located between Concourses B and C in Terminal 3, the hub benefits from an annual footfall of six to seven million travellers, offering entrepreneurs exposure and growth opportunities. Four flagship projects launched at the hub include Amadal by Afnan Bushalat, Mira Farms by FBMI, Nuwa by Abdulaziz Al-Jabri, and From the Arab by Alyazi Almheiri – all promoting Emirati craftsmanship and innovation.
Gulf Air hosts Gulf Flight Safety Association Conference 2024
Gulf Air, Bahrain’s national carrier, hosted the second Gulf Flight Safety Association (GFSA) Conference for 2024 at the MΓΆvenpick Hotel, Bahrain. The two-day event commenced with a welcome address by Gulf Air’s Chief Operating Officer, Captain Qasim Ismaeel, highlighting the airline’s commitment to aviation safety in the Gulf region. Discussions on the first day covered topics such as aircraft damage, weather risks, dangerous goods incidents, and ground handling. The second day featured reports from various safety groups and presentations from industry stakeholders, including Airbus and UAE Presidential Flight.
Bahrain Airport Company hosts workshop to enhance global air connectivity
Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) recently hosted a workshop at the Bahrain International Airport to explore enhancing global air connectivity. The event was organised in collaboration with Airports Council International Asia-Pacific & Middle East and PwC/Strategy & Middle East. Key stakeholders from the aviation industry attended to discuss strategies for improving air transport links and operational efficiency. Discussions centred around best practices, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts to strengthen the Kingdom’s air connectivity.
HM King Abdullah II Honours Airport International Group with Silver Jubilee Medal
Airport International Group, represented by CEO Nicolas Deviller, received the Silver Jubilee Medal from His Majesty King Abdullah II in recognition of its contributions to Jordanβs progress and service to local communities. The award, presented during a ceremony at the Royal Hashemite Court attended by Crown Prince Al Hussein, highlights the groupβs efforts in elevating Queen Alia International Airportβs operations and customer experience. CEO Nicolas Deviller emphasised the accolade as a testament to the teamβs dedication to excellence, sustainability, and community empowerment. The ceremony celebrated 25 years of Jordanβs achievements under His Majestyβs leadership.
Cairo International Airport’s Terminal 4 to bolster tourism
Egypt is advancing its aviation sector with the development of Terminal 4 at Cairo International Airport, designed to accommodate 30 million passengers annually. Dubbed the “New Republic Air Gateway,” this project aims to bolster the country’s tourism objectives, enhance traveller experiences, and establish Egypt as a key international aviation hub. The government has announced plans to involve the private sector in airport management, including a global tender for Cairo International. Once operational, Terminal 4 is expected to elevate Cairo International Airport’s global status, making it a hub for regional and international travel. Notably, Egypt’s aviation sector improved 36 spots to 27th in the 2024 Air Transport Infrastructure Index, aligning with Vision 2030’s focus on sustainable development and global competitiveness.
