Saturday, 12 July 2025

Qatar Airways Welcomes PSG Home with Special UEFA Champions League Aircraft Livery

Published: Wednesday, June 04, 2025
Qatar Airways Welcomes PSG Home with Special UEFA Champions League Aircraft Livery

Paraphrase as a news in Paragraph style with more details:Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) returned triumphantly to Paris after their UEFA Champions League victory, flying on a Qatar Airways Boeing 777-300ER adorned with a striking, specially commissioned livery celebrating their achievement.

The aircraft, registered A7-BED, featured an eye-catching navy blue and white design with the Champions League logo prominently displayed, symbolizing both the club’s historic win and Qatar Airways’ deep involvement in the football world. The livery was meticulously applied in Haikou, China, where the plane underwent a complete strip-down and respray before being ferried back to Doha and then positioned in Munich to collect the champions.

On June 1, 2025, following PSG’s record-breaking 5-0 victory over Inter Milan at Munich’s Allianz Arena, the team, their management, and the Champions League trophy boarded this unique aircraft for their return to Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport, where celebrations and a victory parade awaited them. The flight, operating under the callsign ‘5PSG’, underscored the magnitude of PSG’s win and the airline’s commitment to marking the occasion in grand style.

Qatar Airways’ involvement in this year’s Champions League final was unprecedented, as the airline was not only the official sponsor of both finalists—PSG and Inter Milan—but also of the competition itself, achieving a “sponsorship treble” that highlighted its global vision and passion for football. The airline’s CEO, Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, described this partnership as a landmark moment, emphasizing how it united values of ambition, precision, and global connectivity.

Beyond the livery and sponsorship, Qatar Airways enhanced the fan and player experience through exclusive travel packages, special events such as a live podcast with football legends, and community initiatives that included inviting children from PSG and Inter’s social programs to enjoy a “Dream Night” at the final. The airline’s cabin crew also participated in the matchday spectacle, lining the players’ tunnel for the world to see.

The special livery is expected to remain on the aircraft for some time, making appearances at airports worldwide and serving as a flying tribute to PSG’s Champions League triumph and Qatar Airways’ prominent role in international sports partnerships.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi launches non-stop flights to Sialkot, Pakistan

Published: Thursday, July 10, 2025
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi launches non-stop flights to Sialkot, Pakistan

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi is set to launch a new direct flight service connecting Zayed International Airport and Sialkot International Airport in Pakistan, starting July 17, 2025. This exciting development will see the airline operate three weekly flights, enhancing connectivity between the UAE capital and one of Pakistan’s key industrial hubs.

The new route will operate on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with flight 3L 311 departing Abu Dhabi at 1:35 a.m. and arriving in Sialkot at 6:00 a.m. The return flight, 3L 312, will leave Sialkot at 6:50 a.m., landing in Abu Dhabi at 9:20 a.m. This schedule is designed to cater to the growing demand from business travelers and the large expatriate community linking the two regions.

Sialkot, located in the northeast of Punjab province near the Kashmir hills and Chenab River, is renowned as a vital industrial and export center in Pakistan. The new service will expand Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s footprint in Pakistan beyond its existing routes to Faisalabad and Multan, providing passengers with more options for direct and affordable travel.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi operates a modern fleet of 12 Airbus A320 aircraft, known for their efficiency and passenger comfort. The airline offers value-added services such as free in-flight streaming through ‘SkyTime’ and affordable onboard catering with ‘SkyCafe.’ Additionally, travelers can benefit from the ‘Air Rewards’ loyalty program, allowing them to earn and redeem points.

Tickets for the new Abu Dhabi–Sialkot flights are now available for booking via Air Arabia’s website, call center, and authorized travel agencies, marking a significant boost in air connectivity between the UAE and Pakistan’s thriving industrial regions.

UAE denies lifetime Golden Visa for Indians, Bangladeshis; rejects ₹23 lakh claim

Published: Thursday, July 10, 2025
UAE denies lifetime Golden Visa for Indians, Bangladeshis; rejects ₹23 lakh claim

The United Arab Emirates has officially denied rumours of a lifetime Golden Visa offer for Indians and certain other nationalities, following widespread reports and social media buzz suggesting otherwise. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) of Abu Dhabi clarified that no lifetime Golden Visa scheme exists, and all applications are processed strictly through official government channels within the UAE.

The ICP emphasized that the eligibility categories, conditions, and regulations for the Golden Visa are clearly defined by UAE laws and ministerial decisions, and no internal or external consultancy or commercial entity is authorized to handle or facilitate visa applications. This statement was issued in response to misleading reports claiming that Indians and Bangladeshis could obtain a lifetime Golden Visa for a fee of approximately ₹23 lakh (AED 100,000) through private consultancies, notably the Dubai-based Rayad Group, which later apologized for the confusion caused.

The authority warned the public against falling prey to fraudulent schemes promising simplified or guaranteed visa approvals, noting that such claims have no legal basis and were made without coordination with UAE authorities. The ICP also announced that legal action will be taken against entities spreading false information and illegally collecting money from hopeful applicants.

Applicants seeking accurate and up-to-date information on the UAE Golden Visa program are urged to rely solely on official sources, such as the ICP’s website and smart application platforms. The Golden Visa process remains transparent and regulated, with no shortcuts or lifetime residency offers outside the established legal framework.

This clarification comes amid growing enthusiasm among Indian nationals for UAE residency options, but the ICP’s firm denial aims to curb misinformation and protect applicants from exploitation.

Armenia to allow visa-free entry for GCC citizens and residents from July 2025.

Published: Thursday, July 10, 2025
Armenia to allow visa-free entry for GCC citizens and residents from July 2025.

Starting July 1, 2025, Armenia has opened its doors visa-free to citizens and residents of all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. This landmark policy allows GCC passport holders and expatriates with valid residency permits (valid for at least six months) to visit Armenia for tourism, leisure, or business stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period—without the need for a visa.

This move marks a significant expansion of Armenia’s visa-free regime, which previously applied only to select GCC nationals such as those from the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait. By extending visa-free access to all GCC countries and their residents, Armenia aims to position itself as an accessible and welcoming destination in the South Caucasus, capitalizing on growing interest among Gulf travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and unique culinary offerings.

Armenia’s rich historical heritage, including ancient monasteries and vibrant urban culture in its capital Yerevan, combined with its natural beauty such as Lake Sevan and Dilijan National Park make it an attractive choice for GCC visitors. The country’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, coupled with direct flights from Gulf carriers like flydubai, Air Arabia, and Wizz Air, further enhances its appeal.

Officials highlight that the visa exemption will not only boost tourism but also strengthen economic and cultural ties between Armenia and the Gulf region, fostering increased business exchanges and investment opportunities. The policy also broadens accessibility for the substantial expatriate communities residing in the GCC, facilitating easier travel and deeper regional connections.

In summary, Armenia’s new visa-free entry for GCC citizens and residents is a strategic step to attract more visitors from the Gulf, offering them hassle-free access to explore its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and business potential starting mid-2025.

Customs seize ₹1.34 crore worth of gold at Delhi IGI Airport

Published: Thursday, July 10, 2025
Customs seize ₹1.34 crore worth of gold at Delhi IGI Airport

Customs officials at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport intercepted an Indian passenger arriving from Sharjah on July 3, 2025, and seized gold worth over ₹1.34 crore. The passenger was stopped based on profiling by the Air Intelligence Unit at Terminal 3, leading to a thorough search of his baggage and person.

During the search, officers discovered two plastic pouches containing a yellow-coloured paste. Upon further examination, three gold bars weighing a total of 1,484.5 grams were extracted from the paste, valued at ₹1,34,87,395. The gold was cleverly concealed in paste form, a growing smuggling technique where gold is melted and mixed with other substances to avoid detection by scanners and physical inspection.

A case has been registered against the passenger under the Customs Act, 1962. Following interrogation, customs officials identified and intercepted another individual believed to be the intended receiver of the smuggled gold. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not disclosed the identities of those involved.

Smugglers often use innovative methods to transport gold, including hiding it in clothing linings, food items, electronic devices, and even aircraft structures. Multiple carriers are frequently employed to minimize risk. Most gold smuggling into India originates from the Middle East and Southeast Asia, with major airports like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai being common entry points.

Customs officials rely on advanced screening technologies, behavioral profiling, and random checks to combat these sophisticated smuggling attempts. Despite stricter regulations and increased enforcement, gold smuggling remains a significant challenge due to high import duties and price disparities.

This recent seizure highlights the ongoing vigilance of customs authorities in protecting the country’s economic interests and curbing illegal trade. The case also emphasizes the need for continuous adaptation of detection methods to keep pace with evolving smuggling tactics.

Dubai: Emirates flights and Duty Free shopping to accept cryptocurrency soon.

Published: Wednesday, July 09, 2025
Dubai: Emirates flights and Duty Free shopping to accept cryptocurrency soon.

Dubai’s Emirates Airline and Dubai Duty Free have taken a major step toward embracing digital currencies by signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Crypto.com to enable cryptocurrency payments for flight bookings and retail purchases. The agreements, signed on July 8, 2025, at Emirates Group Headquarters in Dubai, mark a pioneering move to integrate Crypto.com Pay into their payment ecosystems, with implementation expected to begin next year.

Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, highlighted that the partnership reflects the airline’s commitment to adapting to evolving customer preferences and attracting younger, tech-savvy travelers who favor digital currencies. He noted that this initiative aligns with Dubai’s vision to lead in financial innovation while providing customers with greater flexibility and choice in how they transact with Emirates.

Dubai Duty Free, which posted a turnover of AED 4.118 billion in the first half of 2025, will enable crypto payments both in-store and online, enhancing the retail experience for millions of international travelers passing through Dubai International Airport. Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi described the move as a forward-looking step that adds significant value to their diverse customer base and supports sustained growth.

The MoUs also include plans for strategic collaborations such as joint marketing campaigns and customer engagement programs to promote awareness and adoption of cryptocurrency payments. Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com, emphasized that partnering with Emirates and Dubai Duty Free will accelerate mainstream adoption of digital assets and bring real momentum to the crypto industry in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

This initiative is part of Dubai’s broader strategy to become a global hub for crypto and digital finance innovation. The emirate has already established regulatory frameworks like the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and hosts over 650 crypto companies in free zones such as DMCC. Other sectors, including real estate and petroleum retail, are also integrating cryptocurrencies, as seen in partnerships like Crypto.com’s recent collaboration with Emirates Petroleum Company (Emarat) to enable crypto payments at service stations.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline & Group, and other senior executives from Emirates and Crypto.com were present at the signing ceremony, underscoring the strategic importance of these partnerships in transforming travel and commerce through advanced digital payment solutions.

By enabling cryptocurrency payments, Emirates and Dubai Duty Free are positioning themselves at the forefront of the digital economy, offering travelers innovative, secure, and convenient payment options that reflect the future of global commerce.