Author: holidayweekly

KARACHI: As of the global pandemic, current year exposed the world with unforeseen challenges and likewise, the travel trade suffered upfront. But with every challenge, comes new opportunity. With leisure travel still struggling amidst restrictions, it became only a matter of realization to explore and contribute to the traditionally rich Domestic Tourism Sector of Pakistan. [huge_it_slider id=”586″] Focusing the same, Bukhari Group started collaboration with Sindh Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) for the development and promotion of Domestic tours highlighting the rich Culture and heritage of Sindh. For this, Chairman Bukhari Group Sardar Mohammad Rafiq Khan along with team shared his…

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RAWALPINDI: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Ryanair have signed an agreement under which the former will provide its Boeing-777 aircraft to the latter to operate cargo flights between Urumqi and Pakistan. PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez said on Saturday that PIA has cut down its flight operations because of travel restrictions brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, leaving many of its aircraft idle. The PIA has therefore converted its Boeing-777 passenger aircraft into a cargo plane and leased it to Ryanair. Mr. Hafeez said the aircraft has the capacity to carry 52 tons of cargo; the plane will fly this route…

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DOHA: Qatar Airways has taken delivery today of three more Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. The development reaffirms its position as the largest operator of Airbus A350 aircraft in the world, with 52 in its fleet. The new planes will operate on strategic long-haul routes to Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Europe. Qatar Airways Group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker, said: “As one of the only airlines to continue taking delivery of new aircraft at this time, our strategic investment in modern, fuel-efficient twin-engine aircraft has enabled us to continue flying. “Environmentally conscious passengers can travel with the reassurance that Qatar Airways…

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NEW YORK: American Airlines has reported third-quarter revenue of $3.2 billion, down 73 per cent year-over-year on a 59 per cent year-over-year reduction in total available seat miles. The US giant confirmed a pre-tax loss of $3.1 billion for the three-month period. Excluding net special items, the third-quarter pre-tax loss stood at $3.6 billion. “During the third quarter, we took action to reduce our costs, strengthen our financial position, and ensure our customers return to travel with confidence,” said American Airlines chief executive, Doug Parker. “The American Airlines team is doing a remarkable job taking care of our customers and…

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DUBAI: Nakheel Malls has official broken the record for the largest fountain in the world. Guinness World Records recognised the Palm Fountain in Dubai as covering 7,327 metres squared during an opening ceremony earlier. Located at the Pointe at Palm Jumeirah, the waterfront attraction creates a relaxing environment while its water jets dance to songs from all around the world. The fountain is equipped with shooters capable of blasting water 105 metres into the air. It also features over 3,000 LED lights in multiple colours that light up the sky over the ocean. “This is a historic moment for Nakheel…

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ISLAMABAD: Continuous improvement and strengthening of regulatory bodies for implementation of quality standards and certifications for the tourism and hospitality sectors is the hallmark of the countries which have a flourishing tourism industry. In Pakistan, there is a need for a proper regulatory framework and certification mechanism to ensure that tourists receive unparalleled experience through quality services and value for their money while visiting Pakistan. [huge_it_slider id=”585″] Implementation of minimum standards through an effective regulatory program is a vital tourism industry asset, designed to establish and improve operational efficiencies in tourism and hospitality industry. Accredited and certified tourism and hospitality…

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KARACHI:  Faysal Bank Limited (FBL), one of the leading Islamic banks in Pakistan, together with the national carrier Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), have joined hands to promote the State Bank of Pakistan’s initiative of Roshan Digital Accounts with the announcement of a 3-month promotional campaign for Faysal Islami Roshan Digital Account (RDA) holders & PIA passengers in a momentous ceremony. [huge_it_slider id=”584″] Faysal Bank is encouraging Overseas Pakistanis to open Faysal Islami Roshan Digital Accounts and remit USD 1,000 (or its equivalent) for a chance to a win free PIA return ticket from their country of residence to Pakistan. The…

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MANAMA: His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain has issued a Royal Decree appointing Dr Nasser Ali Yousif as Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA). Industry, Commerce and Tourism Minister shall implement the decree which takes immediate effect, and will be published in the official gazette, said a Bahrain News Agency report.

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AMMAN: Full-year 2020 passenger numbers in the Middle East (to/from/within) are forecast to reach only 30% of 2019 levels, down significantly from the 45% that was projected in July, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said. In absolute numbers, the Middle East is expected to see 60 million travelers in 2020 compared to the 203 million in 2019, said IATA in a news briefing. In 2021, demand in the Middle East is expected to strengthen to 45% of 2019 levels to reach 90 million travelers to/from/within the region, said IATA, adding that a full return to 2019 levels is not…

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MADRID: The next edition of the International Tourism Fair, FITUR 2021, will be held from the 19 to 23 May next year as decided by IFEMA and the FITUR Organising Committee. This decision arrives following a meditated decision that, exceptionally, makes the event essential to the recovery of the tourism industry, at a time that will still preserve its high international impact as well as promote the professional reunion of companies, countries, and destinations. It will also provide a much-needed boost to the worldwide tourism activity. The exceptional change of dates aims to facilitate the participation of all the main…

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