17 March 2026 (Geneva) — The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its Long‑Term Demand Projections (LTDP) for air travel, showing that global air passenger demand is expected to more than double by 2050. Under the mid‑range scenario, demand is forecast to reach 20.8 trillion revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), based on a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% (2024-2050) from the 9 trillion RPKs seen in 2024. A higher growth scenario would see a 3.3% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 21.9 trillion RPKs in 2050. A lower growth scenario would see 2.9% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 19.5 trilli
Geneva, March 16, 2026, SPA — Islamic University of Madinah, represented by its Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, won the bronze medal at the 51st edition of the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva 2026, for a pioneering innovation in the field of air purification. The medal was achieved through the participation of Director of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center Dr. Hosam Alharbi, and Eng. Ahmad Imam, who presented an innovation in air purification aimed at developing advanced technologies to improve air quality and contribute to environmental protection. This participation and achievement are part of the univer
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- Air Travel Demand Will More Than Double by 2050
- Islamic University of Madinah Wins Bronze Medal at International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva 2026
- Ministry of Tourism Intensifies Inspection Tours of Hospitality Facilities
- Eid Al-Fitr Preparations Transform Makkah’s Markets into Festive Shopping Hubs
- Iftar Tables in Al-Baha Farms Bring Together Locals and Visitors in a Ramadan Atmosphere
- KSrelief Supervisor General, UK Development Minister Discuss Bilateral Humanitarian Partnership
- Eid Sweets: A Cherished Tradition in Saudi Families’ Celebrations
- Royal Commission for Makkah City Receives Three Licenses to Operate Taxi Services
Author: Mahdeehassan
18 February 2026 (Geneva/Madrid) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Spanish Airline Association (ALA) called for an annual reduction of 4.9% (excluding inflation) in Spanish airport charges over the next five years (2027-2031), a level compatible with maintaining an airport investment plan of nearly €10 billion over the same period, and enhancing Spain’s economic competitiveness. AENA, the operator of most airports in Spain, has proposed an annual increase of 3.8% (excluding inflation) for the five-year period covered by the Third Airport Regulation Document (DORA III). Airlines reject this proposal, ci
Riyadh, February 19, 2026, SPA — Tuwaiq Academy announced the opening of registration for the Tuwaiqthon, dedicated to building innovative solutions without writing code. The hackathon targets both technical and non-technical participants and will be held at the academy’s headquarters in Riyadh as part of its Ramadan activities from March 6 to 8, with the aim of building and empowering national capabilities in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. The hackathon offers real opportunities for individuals from various disciplines, fields, and sectors to participate in a competitive environment that supports national talent
Madinah, February 19, 2026, SPA — The Madinah Bus project—overseen by Madinah Region Development Authority (MRDA)—announced the activation of its shuttle service during Ramadan to serve nearby neighborhoods and facilitate the movement of residents and visitors through several main stations under its operational plan for the holy month. The service operates from three main stations—Sports City, Shatha, and Al-Hadiqa—covering a wide range of residential districts across Madinah to facilitate access to key destinations during Ramadan peak hours. The Sports City station serves Ad Difa, Taybah, Urwah, Al-Nakhil, Al-A
Sakaka, February 19, 2026, SPA — The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) issued a warning of light fog expected to affect Al-Qurayyat and Tabarjal in Al-Jouf Region on Thursday. The NCM forecast reduced horizontal visibility ranging between 3 and 5 kilometers due to fog. The condition is expected to continue until 9 a.m.
Riyadh, February 16, 2026, SPA — Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) Advisor Turki Alalshikh announced that the number of visitors to Riyadh Season in its sixth edition has reached 17 million, coinciding with the conclusion of the season’s activities, reflecting the significant turnout and wide public engagement witnessed since its launch. Launched last October, Riyadh Season delivered an integrated entertainment experience featuring diverse content across entertainment zones, theatrical productions, and major sporting events in various disciplines, including boxing, tennis, and snooker, a
Madinah, February 18, 2026, SPA — Taibah University signed today the contract establishing the “Ali Sharbini Chair for Innovation Technologies to Serve Persons with Disabilities,” marking the first research chair of its kind based on a patented invention aimed at transferring technology from scientific research into practical application and community service. The initiative focuses on developing advanced technological solutions to empower individuals with hearing and visual impairments. The university noted that the chair is centered on a wireless tactile communication device that converts audio content into perceptible vibra
This Ramadan, beauty meets storytelling. At Benefit Cosmetics, we’re celebrating the spirit of togetherness, confidence, and feel-good glam with something extra special — our Ramadan show, created exclusively for the region and starring 8 of the Middle East’s most loved influencers. Starting February 18, we’re rolling out 4 feel-good episodes, airing weekly on our socials. Instagram: @benefitmiddleeast TikTok: @benefitmiddleeast Filled with glam moments, playful challenges, beauty tips, and plenty of surprises — including weekly giveaways! Featuring: @rawan.fami @rrrayanfahmi @layali.b
Riyadh, KSA – February 2026 – The World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics (WAM) Saudi Summit & Expo 2026, officially concluded after three days of high-impact sessions, strategic collaborations and innovative showcases, highlighting the Kingdom’s ongoing industrial transformation led by the Saudi Vision 2030 agenda. Organised by KAOUN International in strategic partnership with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON), the exhibition convened international industry professionals from over 45 nations, offering exclusive networking opportunities, building partnerships, and committing to execution in this defining moment for the global industry. Alex Nicholl, Vice-President, Kaoun International, stated: “What makes this year’s edition distinctive…
The GCC creator economy reached about 263,000 monetized content creators in 2025, up 75% from 150,000 in 2023.This growth reflects the region’s rapid adoption of user-generated content and influencer-driven media. [United Arab Emirates – 19 February 2026]: The UAE music market has rapidly evolved into one of the most culturally diverse and globally connected ecosystems in the world, according to 0to8 (Zero to Infinity), a UAE-based next-generation music label specializing in scalable, data-driven artist growth across TikTok and digital platforms with over 4 billion streams across all platforms in 2025. Tracks in Hindi, Arabic, Russian, and English are gaining significant…
This Ramadan, Mercato Shopping Mall welcomes the community to embrace the spirit of generosity, compassion, and togetherness through a heartwarming programme of charitable giving and family-friendly experiences. In collaboration with Emirates Red Crescent, Mercato is hosting a special Ramadan donation drive dedicated to supporting families in need. Visitors are encouraged to contribute essential items such as clothing, toys, books, and non-perishable food — simple acts of kindness that create meaningful impact. Enhancing the festive atmosphere, the mall will offer a rich calendar of engaging experiences for families and children.
