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Consumer Markets & Tourism

Retail, e-commerce, hospitality and tourism

Middle East Travel Alerts
Source: Gulf News

Etihad Extends Abu Dhabi-Riyadh Flight Cancellations Following Saudi Airport Advisory

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has updated its travel advisory to warn against all but essential travel to the entirety of Saudi Arabia. The decision follows drone and missile strikes by Yemen's Houthi movement that targeted critical transport and energy infrastructure, including Riyadh's international airport. British authorities also cautioned that non-compliant travel risks invalidating travel insurance policies.

Middle East Travel Alerts
Source: Iran International

World Leaders Condemn Houthi Strike on Riyadh Airport as Travel Warnings Issued

World leaders and international organisations condemned a Houthi strike targeting Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport on Sunday. The incident prompted official warnings to travellers, including foreign government guidance urging nationals to avoid the facility. Diplomatic officials across Europe, North America, and the Middle East expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and demanded an end to attacks on civil aviation infrastructure.

Industry News
Source: Khaleej Times

Schengen Visa Delays Push UAE Residents to Consider China and Alternative Destinations

UAE residents planning National Day trips face Schengen visa appointment wait times of up to two months, prompting a shift toward alternative destinations. Travel agents report that countries offering faster visa processing, including China, are seeing increased demand. Tour operators have begun releasing holiday packages while residents await official confirmation of the holiday dates.

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