Saudi Arabia’s national airline, Saudia, achieved a 9% year-on-year surge in passenger traffic during the first quarter of 2025, carrying over nine million travelers. Domestic routes led the growth with a 12% increase, serving four million passengers across 27,100 flights—a 4% rise in domestic operations.

International demand climbed 8%, with five million passengers flown on 20,900 flights, reflecting a 2% uptick in overseas services. The airline operated a total of 48,100 flights, up 3%, accumulating 143,600 flight hours, underscoring its expanded operational footprint.

The airline credits its success to a dynamic operational strategy that adapts seat capacity to seasonal demand spikes, supported by a state-of-the-art fleet and a predominantly Saudi workforce trained to meet global aviation standards. This aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals to position the Kingdom as a global aviation hub.

In March 2025, Saudia secured the world’s top on-time performance ranking, achieving 94.07% punctuality for arrivals and 94% for departures during the high-demand Umrah season, as validated by aviation analytics leader Cirium.

Looking ahead, Saudia is accelerating its fleet modernization, with plans to expand from 147 to 265 aircraft through strategic orders. Recent acquisitions include 49 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners for long-haul routes and 54 Airbus A321neos for regional connectivity.

Additionally, the Saudia Group finalized an order for 20 Airbus A330neo wide-body jets, with 10 earmarked for its budget subsidiary flyadeal, marking flyadeal’s debut in long-haul markets by 2027. These fuel-efficient additions aim to support Saudi Arabia’s target of serving 330 million annual passengers by 2030.

Passenger experience enhancements remain a priority, with AI-driven virtual assistants now integrated into Saudia’s digital platforms, offering end-to-end travel support. The airline continues to refine its ground and in-flight services, including premium lounges and tailored onboard offerings, to elevate customer satisfaction.

As the Kingdom’s aviation sector expands under Vision 2030, Saudia’s investments in technology, workforce development, and fleet modernization solidify its role as a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious connectivity agenda.

Etihad Airways has officially become a participant in IATA’s Turbulence Aware initiative, bringing its entire fleet-comprising nearly 100 Airbus and Boeing aircraft-into the programme. By doing so, every Etihad flight will now automatically feed anonymized, real-time turbulence data into a global network.

This development is set to further enrich the world’s largest database on in-flight turbulence, empowering pilots and dispatchers to make better-informed decisions about flight routes, thereby enhancing safety, comfort, and operational efficiency for all passengers and crew.

The Turbulence Aware programme is an aviation industry-wide collaboration that aggregates and shares precise, up-to-the-minute turbulence readings-known as Eddy Dissipation Rate (EDR) data-from aircraft operated by participating airlines, business aviation, and ground-based systems.

All the information is processed within seconds, ensuring that pilots, dispatchers, and operational teams can access the latest turbulence updates through their own flight planning tools, third-party apps, or IATA’s MET Viewer, a web-based interface that visualizes turbulence in vivid detail, including intensity, location, altitude, and relevant weather patterns.

The advantages of this programme are far-reaching. By providing objective, real-time turbulence data, Turbulence Aware helps flight crews steer clear of hazardous weather, uphold the highest safety standards, and reduce the likelihood of injuries among passengers and crew-an area of concern that remains a leading cause of in-flight incidents.

Furthermore, optimized routing supported by the programme leads to significant fuel savings, lower CO₂ emissions, and reduced operational expenses. The predictive power of the data also aids in minimizing aircraft wear and tear, which in turn helps decrease maintenance costs and increase fleet reliability.

With more than 2,600 aircraft now actively contributing to the data pool-and over 54 million turbulence reports generated in 2024 alone-the programme’s reach and data quality are rapidly expanding as additional airlines join the effort. Etihad’s involvement is especially significant, as it extends the programme’s coverage across the Middle East and all five continents it serves.

This ensures that pilots and dispatchers worldwide have access to the most accurate and timely turbulence information, supporting safer, smoother, and more efficient flights for everyone.

Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Interim Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways, highlighted the airline’s strong commitment to safety, stating, “Having access to real-time, accurate turbulence data allows our pilots to make better decisions, resulting in smoother and more comfortable journeys for our guests.”

Kamil Al-Awadhi, IATA Regional Vice-President for Africa and the Middle East, also welcomed Etihad’s participation, emphasizing that timely, reliable turbulence data is key to improving flight safety and enhancing the overall passenger experience.

In essence, by joining the Turbulence Aware programme, Etihad Airways is not only reaffirming its dedication to safety and operational excellence but also playing a vital role in a global, collaborative movement to make air travel safer, more comfortable, and more sustainable for everyone involved.

In a significant development for Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia, Alankit Assignments Limited has been officially awarded a new contract to provide consular, visa, and passport services for the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Indian Consulate in Jeddah.

The transition comes after a competitive bidding process, where Alankit Assignments Limited emerged as the L1 (lowest bidder) during the financial bid evaluation held on April 26, 2025, as confirmed by official embassy documents. This means that, barring any last-minute changes, Alankit Assignments Limited will take over these vital services from the current provider, VFS Global, once their contract expires on June 30, 2025.

These outsourced services are crucial for the large Indian community in Saudi Arabia, covering a wide range of consular needs-including the issuance and renewal of Indian passports, processing of various visa applications (such as employment, family, and visitor visas), and related document attestation. VFS Global has been the service provider for these functions since 2014, and this change marks the first major shift in a decade.

The new contract is expected to bring improvements in efficiency, customer service, and possibly the introduction of new digital platforms for easier application and tracking. Applicants will, however, need to be aware of the transition period and any changes in service procedures or documentation requirements that may accompany the switch.

It is also important to note that, as of now, citizens from 14 countries-including India-are temporarily restricted from entering Saudi Arabia for tourism, family visits, or business trips due to ongoing travel restrictions. This ban, affecting nationals from countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iraq, Indonesia, Jordan, Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Morocco, Nigeria, Sudan, Yemen, and Tunisia, is expected to be lifted around June 2025, coinciding with the change in service providers.

In summary, Alankit Assignments Limited's new role will be pivotal for the Indian community in Saudi Arabia, ensuring streamlined and efficient handling of all consular, visa, and passport services starting July 1, 2025. Applicants are advised to stay updated with official embassy announcements for any procedural updates or additional requirements during the transition period

Qatar Airways has terminated a flight attendant following a brazen theft incident aboard a March 28, 2025, business class flight (QR 948) from Doha to Singapore. The passenger, an unnamed executive traveling for work, reported placing his iPhone 15 Pro Max in the lavatory’s vanity compartment during the final descent.

Moments after exiting, he observed the same restroom being used by a crew member, only to find the device missing shortly thereafter. Internal airline documents obtained by media outlets confirm the crew member’s dismissal, with Qatar Airways’ Security Investigations Manager stating the employee “admitted to taking the phone” during disciplinary proceedings.

Tracking data via the Find My iPhone app revealed the device traveled to a crew-designated hotel near Singapore’s Changi Airport post-flight, before being transported to Manila, Philippines-allegedly to the attendant’s family residence.

Despite this evidence, the airline initially categorized the case as “unattended personal belongings” in internal reports, a classification the passenger denounced as “deliberate misrepresentation” given the crew’s proven involvement.

The $722 reimbursement offer-based on a depreciated value calculation-sparked outrage, with the victim detailing extensive collateral damages: canceled client meetings in Singapore, six hours spent filing police reports at Changi Airport’s Terminal 1, and permanent loss of sensitive business data due to the phone’s unrecovered status.

“This wasn’t just a theft-it was a breach of trust in their duty of care,” the passenger stated, noting he had specifically chosen Qatar Airways for its top-rated business class service.

The incident marks the second major crew theft allegation against the airline in 2025, following a separate lawsuit by a Dubai-based entrepreneur who accused a flight attendant of stealing $600 cash from her seatback compartment during a Doha-Jakarta flight. Aviation analysts highlight growing concerns about Qatar Airways’ crew screening processes, particularly as the airline aggressively recruits staff to meet post-World Cup expansion targets.

The passenger has filed formal complaints with Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority and Singapore’s Transport Safety Investigation Bureau, demanding reforms to crew monitoring protocols and enhanced compensation frameworks for theft-related disruptions.

Qatar Airways has yet to address why no additional restitution was offered for the passenger’s lost productivity or data, nor explain the 11-day delay in confirming the employee’s termination.

Oman Air has successfully implemented a comprehensive workforce restructuring plan, reducing its employee count by 1,000 positions-including 500 expatriate roles-as part of a strategic effort to optimize operations and reinforce its financial foundation. Spearheaded by Chairman Eng.

Saeed bin Hamoud Al Maawali and CEO Con Korfiatis, this initiative brings the airline’s staffing in line with global industry benchmarks, trimming the workforce from around 4,300 to approximately 3,300 employees, closer to the norm for airlines with similar fleet sizes.

The restructuring focused on eliminating surplus non-core roles, which previously accounted for nearly half of the workforce, thereby significantly boosting organizational efficiency. Oman Air demonstrated a strong commitment to its employees by offering generous voluntary retirement packages, facilitating internal transfers, and supporting external job placements.

Approximately 415 employees were affected, with many receiving severance packages ranging from one to two years’ salary, while others were redeployed within the company or found new opportunities in the aviation sector.

This workforce realignment also accelerated Omanisation efforts, increasing the proportion of Omani nationals employed by the airline from 74.8% in 2023 to an impressive 79.4% in 2024. This reflects Oman Air’s dedication to nurturing local talent and supporting national employment goals.

Beyond workforce changes, Oman Air is undergoing a broader transformation that includes streamlining its fleet by reducing the number of aircraft by nearly 30% since 2023 and shifting its business model towards more point-to-point routes, which now represent 40% of total revenue compared to 27% five years ago.

These strategic moves have contributed to a 19% decrease in operating costs and a remarkable 51% increase in operating profits in 2024. Passenger numbers have also grown, exceeding 5.4 million travelers, supported by an industry-leading 92% on-time performance rate.

Looking ahead, Oman Air is set to join the prestigious Oneworld alliance in June 2025, a milestone that will enhance its global connectivity and offer customers greater travel options. The airline plans to expand its network with new routes to Amsterdam, increased flights to London, and daily service to Moscow, further boosting Oman’s tourism and business sectors.

While Oman Air continues to manage legacy financial obligations, including significant debt and financing costs, the ongoing restructuring and operational improvements are positioning the airline for sustainable profitability by 2026.

Overall, Oman Air’s decisive restructuring and strategic initiatives underscore its commitment to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and long-term growth, reinforcing its role as a vital contributor to Oman’s economy and the regional aviation industry.

In recent years, solo female travel has surged in popularity, with more women than ever seeking destinations that offer not only adventure but also safety, cultural richness, and empowerment. Among the world’s top cities, Dubai stands out as the premier choice for women traveling alone in 2025. This vibrant metropolis effortlessly blends futuristic innovation with deep-rooted traditions, creating a unique environment where solo women can explore freely and confidently.

Dubai’s reputation as a global hub of luxury and innovation is matched by its unwavering commitment to safety and inclusivity. Recognized as the world’s safest city for solo female travelers by InsureMyTrip in 2025, Dubai offers a rare combination of state-of-the-art infrastructure, gender-sensitive public services, and a welcoming, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Whether it’s wandering through historic souks, enjoying world-class shopping, or embarking on thrilling desert adventures, women traveling alone find Dubai not only secure but also endlessly inspiring.

What truly sets Dubai apart is its proactive approach to female traveler safety, including dedicated women-only transport options, strict anti-harassment laws, and a city-wide network of surveillance and support services. Coupled with its diverse cultural experiences, luxurious amenities, and year-round sunshine, Dubai has become a beacon for solo women travelers seeking empowerment, excitement, and comfort in one dynamic destination.

Unmatched Safety: A Global Benchmark for Solo Women Travelers

Dubai’s reputation as a safe haven for women traveling alone is backed by impressive statistics and thoughtful city planning:

• Safety Scores: Dubai scored an outstanding 83.11/100 for nighttime safety and 86.23/100 for gender-neutral security, reflecting its commitment to protecting all visitors around the clock.

• Women-Only Facilities: The city offers women-only metro carriages, taxis, and designated beach areas, allowing women to travel comfortably and securely.

• Strict Legal Protections: Dubai enforces zero tolerance policies against harassment and violence, with swift legal action and strong police presence.

• Surveillance & Lighting: Public spaces are well-lit and monitored by thousands of CCTV cameras, ensuring safety even late at night.

• Community Support: Many hotels, tour operators, and public venues provide female-only staff and guides, creating a welcoming environment tailored to solo women travelers.

A Wealth of Experiences Tailored for Every Interest

Dubai’s offerings go far beyond safety, delivering unforgettable experiences that blend luxury, culture, and adventure:

• Thrilling Adventures: From skydiving over the iconic Palm Jumeirah to dune bashing and camel trekking in the desert, adrenaline seekers will find plenty to excite them.

• Cultural Immersion: Wander through the historic Al Fahidi Neighborhood, visit the Dubai Museum, and shop for handcrafted treasures in the bustling Gold and Spice Souks.

• Luxury & Leisure: Indulge in world-class shopping at the Dubai Mall, savor gourmet meals at the Burj Al Arab’s fine dining restaurants, or relax at exclusive women-only spa retreats.

• Social Media Hotspot: With over 35.7 million TikTok hashtags featuring Dubai, the city is a magnet for influencers and travelers eager to capture its stunning skyline, vibrant street art, and dazzling fountains.

Practical Comforts: Affordable Luxury Meets Convenience

Dubai offers a seamless travel experience that balances high standards with affordability:

• Average Daily Cost: Approximately $289 per day, covering comfortable accommodation, meals, and activities without compromising quality.

• Accommodation Variety: From boutique hostels and mid-range hotels to ultra-luxurious resorts, Dubai’s lodging options earned a 4.26/5 quality rating, catering to all budgets and preferences.

• Efficient Transportation: The city’s modern metro system, including women-only carriages, taxis, and ride-hailing apps, make getting around easy and safe.

• Cleanliness & Infrastructure: Dubai consistently ranks among the world’s cleanest cities, with immaculate streets, public restrooms, and well-maintained parks.

Why Dubai Is Perfect for Today’s Solo Female Traveler

The rise of solo female travel-now accounting for 71% of all solo travelers globally-makes Dubai’s offerings especially relevant:

• Cultural Respect with Modern Freedom: While modest dress codes are encouraged in public spaces, Dubai’s cosmopolitan vibe welcomes diversity and personal expression.

• Empowering Environment: Women can explore independently, join women-only tours, or participate in female-focused networking and wellness events.

• Connectivity & Community: Free Wi-Fi in public areas, women’s coworking spaces, and social meet-ups make it easy to stay connected and meet like-minded travelers.

Insider Tips for Female Solo Travelers in Dubai

• Dress Code: Opt for modest yet stylish attire-covering shoulders and knees-in public places to respect local customs while staying comfortable.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March offers pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

• Safety Apps: Download local safety apps like Dubai Police and RTA for quick access to emergency services and transport info.

• Women-Only Tours: Consider booking women-only desert safaris, city tours, or cooking classes for a more personalized experience.

• Stay Hydrated & Sun-Safe: Dubai’s desert climate means high temperatures; always carry water and use sunscreen.

The Final Verdict

Dubai’s overall score of 7.71/10 reflects a city that masterfully blends tradition and innovation, offering solo female travelers a unique space to explore confidently and comfortably. Whether you’re wandering through ancient souks, indulging in luxury shopping, or experiencing thrilling adventures, Dubai empowers women to embrace independence without compromise.

Quick Facts at a Glance

• Safety: 83.11/100 nighttime, 86.23/100 gender-neutral security

• Activities: 4.58/5 rating, from cultural tours to extreme sports

• Cost: $289 average daily budget

• Accommodation: 4.26/5 quality rating

• Social Buzz: 35.7 million TikTok hashtags

• Transport: Women-only metro, taxis, 24/7 surveillance

• Global Rankings: Safest city for solo women, 2nd safest city overall, cleanest city in 2025

Plan Your Dubai Solo Adventure Today!

From women-only guided tours to private yacht charters and wellness retreats, Dubai offers every solo traveler the perfect blend of safety, excitement, and cultural richness. Pack your bags, bring your confidence, and discover why Dubai is the world’s best city for female solo travelers in 2025.

Feature Image Suggestion: A confident solo female traveler enjoying a sunset view from the Burj Khalifa observation deck, with Dubai’s skyline glowing in the background.