travel trends

Saudia secured the global on-time performance crown for the third consecutive month in July 2026, recording an 87.24% arrival rate.

flyadeal has launched direct Jeddah-Bergamo flights, while Saudia and Wizz Air Malta expand routes linking Jeddah with Milan and Rome in 2026.

Ryanair has extended its digital technology partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) for five years, integrating agentic AI across its fleet operations.

Riyadh Air has opened ticket bookings for daily nonstop flights between Riyadh and Bangkok starting September 2, 2026, using the Boeing 787-9.

RAK welcomed 1.35 million visitors in 2025, recording a 12% revenue growth and positioning itself as a long-stay nature alternative to Dubai.

Destinations like Iceland's Westfjords, Shetland, and the Faroes' Suðuroy reframe dramatic winter weather into resilient travel experiences.

Sweden prohibits packrafting inside Sarek National Park, while Norway permits the activity in Femundsmarka, shifting route planning in 2026.

Nigeria has launched a US-backed healthcare partnership, Atunse Healthcare, aiming to reduce the US$2.39 billion spent annually on medical tourism.

Nicaragua generated US$159 million in tourism revenue during Q1 2026, driven by a 40.1% increase and higher visitor daily spending.

Mexico's Non-Resident Duty for foreign cruise passengers doubled to US$10 on August 1, 2026, marking the second stage of a phased tax program through 2028.

Italy and Greece are promoting car-free islands like Alicudi, Marettimo, and Hydra, investing millions in ports and desalination plants.

Jordan recorded JD2.47 billion in tourism revenue and welcomed 3.15 million visitors during the first half of 2026, driven by heritage and aviation growth.