Latest news with #Almosafer
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Why Saudis are travelling more than ever and how Vision 2030 is behind the shift
TL;DR: Saudis are travelling more within the Kingdom and beyond, with digital-first behaviour and flexible travel habits gaining ground. This rise reflects not just seasonal patterns, but deeper economic shifts tied to tourism reforms under Vision 2030 . Luxury remains popular, but alternative lodging and mixed-carrier bookings suggest evolving preferences. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Riyadh's investment in infrastructure, heritage, and global branding is positioning the Kingdom as a top-tier destination. Saudis Are Booking More and Differently A recent Almosafer report shows that travel bookings by Saudi residents rose across the board during the first quarter of 2025. People are not just flying more, they're choosing new destinations, more flexible airline options, and a broader mix of accommodations. Solo travel continues to lead, but families and group travellers are also increasingly active, especially within the region. Destinations like Dubai, Doha, London, and Paris remain favourites, while places like Milan, Prague, and Bangkok are gaining traction. In domestic travel, cultural hubs like AlUla, Diriyah, and Abha are being rediscovered not just for leisure, but for heritage and wellness tourism. Digital and Flexible Travel Gains Ground Saudi travellers today are making faster decisions, often via apps. A large share of bookings is now done through smartphones, with flexible payment options like Buy Now Pay Later and Apple Pay becoming increasingly common. Mixed-carrier round trips, where travellers combine full-service and budget airlines are on the rise. Meanwhile, luxury hotels still dominate, but there's a growing comfort with serviced apartments, short-term rentals, and mid-range properties, especially for international trips. This behavioural shift signals a more seasoned, value-conscious Saudi traveller; one that blends comfort with flexibility. How Vision 2030 Is Powering the Shift Saudi Arabia's travel momentum isn't a coincidence, it's the outcome of sustained investment under Vision 2030, the Kingdom's ambitious reform plan to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on oil. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The strategy puts tourism front and centre. Landmark projects like NEOM, the Red Sea Global, Amaala, and Diriyah Gate are not just urban developments, they are lifestyle brands designed to attract millions of tourists annually. Key pillars of this tourism revival include: Cultural revival : Restoration of ancient sites like AlUla and Diriyah is reshaping Saudi Arabia's image from closed desert to cultural crossroads. : Restoration of ancient sites like AlUla and Diriyah is reshaping Saudi Arabia's image from closed desert to cultural crossroads. Relaxed visa rules : New eVisa systems, expanded tourist categories, and multi-entry options have made access easier than ever. : New eVisa systems, expanded tourist categories, and multi-entry options have made access easier than ever. Transport infrastructure : Massive upgrades at Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam airports are enabling greater travel volumes with global reach. : Massive upgrades at Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam airports are enabling greater travel volumes with global reach. Global events strategy: From Formula E and LIV Golf to international expos and concerts, Saudi Arabia is becoming a year-round events destination. Vision 2030 has reframed tourism as a long-term growth engine, with goals of attracting over 100 million tourists annually and creating one million new tourism jobs in the coming years. Why This Rise in Travel Demand Really Matters The increase in travel bookings during early 2025 is more than just a seasonal trend. It represents a critical turning point in Saudi Arabia's socio-economic transformation. Travel demand is often a bellwether of middle-class growth, consumer confidence, and the diversification of leisure habits and all of which are central to Vision 2030's success. The growth also supports multiple adjacent industries, such as aviation, hospitality, food services, entertainment, and retail. As Saudi residents explore more local destinations, they contribute to job creation in underdeveloped regions and help balance growth beyond the traditional economic centres of Riyadh and Jeddah. Additionally, outbound travel increases the exposure of Saudi citizens to global cultures and services, potentially creating feedback loops that raise expectations for domestic offerings and service standards. This dynamic could spur more competition and innovation within the Kingdom's own tourism sector. A Look at What Comes Next With more infrastructure coming online and mega-projects like Amaala, AlUla expansion, and Riyadh Air set to launch full operations in the coming years, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as both a source market and a destination for global travellers. Tourism is no longer seen as a complementary industry in the Kingdom. It is becoming a driver of sustainable economic growth, cultural exchange, and national branding. The challenge ahead lies in maintaining this upward momentum while ensuring quality, sustainability, and regional equity in how tourism benefits are distributed. Saudi Arabia's early 2025 travel boom is not just about where people are going, instead it is about where the country itself is heading. Backed by digital convenience, rising affluence, and state-led ambition, the Kingdom is reshaping its place on the global tourism map. The real journey, it seems, is only just beginning.
Tourism Breaking News
18-06-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Almosafer partners with Landmark Group for travel bookings
Post Views: 34 Almosafer announced a strategic partnership with Landmark Group to deliver greater value and flexibility to travellers across the GCC through Shukran, Landmark's award-winning loyalty programme. Through this collaboration, Almosafer customers across the GCC can earn Shukran Points on travel bookings made through Almosafer's online travel platforms. Additionally, customers can transfer their Almosafer Points to Shukran Points, providing them with even more options for utilising their travel rewards. Shukran Points can be redeemed across Landmark Group's extensive retail network, including Centrepoint, Max Fashion, Home Centre, Splash, Lifestyle, Shoemart, and Emax – creating a seamless connection between travel and everyday lifestyle benefits. Pallav Singhvi, VP of Consumer Travel at Almosafer, said: 'Our goal has always been to deliver a seamless and enriching experience for our travellers. This partnership with Shukran allows us to add even more value to each journey booked through Almosafer, while also expanding our benefits ecosystem to include one of the region's most trusted loyalty programmes.' James Dickson, Chief Product Officer at Landmark Group said; 'We're thrilled to extend Shukran's reach through our partnership with Almosafer. Shukran is built to reward customers for the lifestyle choices they make every day, and this collaboration is a significant step forward in offering even greater flexibility and value to our members.' The partnership reflects Almosafer's continued commitment to delivering smarter, more rewarding travel experiences across the region. -ENDS- About Almosafer Almosafer is the Middle East's leading travel brand offering consumers seamless user experiences for domestic and international travel bookings through its omni-channel offerings across state-of-the-art online platforms, call centre, WhatsApp and retail locations. Providing hotel booking options for over 1.5 million properties around the globe, flight bookings on over 450 airlines, domestic chalet and istiraha reservations, complete holiday packages, domestic activities, car rental, transfers, concierge planning services and more, Almosafer boasts various convenient booking solutions for any type of travel need. With the heritage of being a homegrown business and harnessing extensive experience in the region, the brand has developed a deep understanding of local travel needs, preferences and traveller segments. Tailored holiday packages for Saudi travellers, dedicated offers and deals, alongside one-on-one consultation across WhatsApp, a 24/7 call centre and in-branch travel advisors, add to the sense of personalised service only a local business such as Almosafer can provide, to help customers find richer and more memorable experiences wherever and whenever they travel. About Landmark Group Founded in 1973 in Bahrain, Landmark Group has grown to become one of the largest and most successful omnichannel retail and hospitality conglomerates, with presence across 17 countries in the Middle East, Africa, India and Southeast Asia. Based in the UAE since 1990, the Group owns and operates 22 established homegrown brands across an extensive network of more than 2,200 outlets, encompassing a gross leasable area of 33 million square feet. Landmark Group's success is driven by its diverse portfolio of established brands, across multiple retail categories, offering a comprehensive range of products across fashion, home, groceries and electronics. These include Centrepoint, Max Fashion, Home Centre, Babyshop, Splash, Shoemart, Lifestyle, Viva, Emax, Home Box, Styli, Shoexpress, Spar and Easybuy. Beyond retail, Landmark Group has diversified into the leisure, fitness and hospitality sectors with brands like Fitness First, Citymax, Fun City, Fun Ville, Zafran and Carluccio's. The Group boasts unparalleled logistics capabilities, owning the MENA region's largest privately-owned distribution hub – Omega Logistics and Logistiq, which offers state-of-the-art third-party logistics services. Landmark Group places a strong emphasis on delivering exceptional value and achieving customer satisfaction throughout its comprehensive product range. The company has a dedicated workforce of more than 53,000 employees and continues to be certified as a Great Place to Work (GPTW) since 2017. For more information visit our website or follow us on our social media pages on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
Zawya
18-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Almosafer partners with Landmark Group to reward travellers with Shukran points on travel bookings
Dubai, UAE – Almosafer, the Middle East's leading travel brand, has announced a strategic partnership with Landmark Group to deliver greater value and flexibility to travellers across the GCC through Shukran, Landmark's award-winning loyalty programme. Through this collaboration, Almosafer customers across the GCC can earn Shukran Points on travel bookings made through Almosafer's online travel platforms. Additionally, customers can transfer their Almosafer Points to Shukran Points, providing them with even more options for utilising their travel rewards. Shukran Points can be redeemed across Landmark Group's extensive retail network, including Centrepoint, Max Fashion, Home Centre, Splash, Lifestyle, Shoemart, and Emax - creating a seamless connection between travel and everyday lifestyle benefits. Pallav Singhvi, VP of Consumer Travel at Almosafer, said: 'Our goal has always been to deliver a seamless and enriching experience for our travellers. This partnership with Shukran allows us to add even more value to each journey booked through Almosafer, while also expanding our benefits ecosystem to include one of the region's most trusted loyalty programmes.' James Dickson, Chief Product Officer at Landmark Group said; 'We're thrilled to extend Shukran's reach through our partnership with Almosafer. Shukran is built to reward customers for the lifestyle choices they make every day, and this collaboration is a significant step forward in offering even greater flexibility and value to our members.' The partnership reflects Almosafer's continued commitment to delivering smarter, more rewarding travel experiences across the region. About Almosafer Almosafer is the Middle East's leading travel brand offering consumers seamless user experiences for domestic and international travel bookings through its omni-channel offerings across state-of-the-art online platforms, call centre, WhatsApp and retail locations. Providing hotel booking options for over 1.5 million properties around the globe, flight bookings on over 450 airlines, domestic chalet and istiraha reservations, complete holiday packages, domestic activities, car rental, transfers, concierge planning services and more, Almosafer boasts various convenient booking solutions for any type of travel need. With the heritage of being a homegrown business and harnessing extensive experience in the region, the brand has developed a deep understanding of local travel needs, preferences and traveller segments. Tailored holiday packages for Saudi travellers, dedicated offers and deals, alongside one-on-one consultation across WhatsApp, a 24/7 call centre and in-branch travel advisors, add to the sense of personalised service only a local business such as Almosafer can provide, to help customers find richer and more memorable experiences wherever and whenever they travel. About Landmark Group Founded in 1973 in Bahrain, Landmark Group has grown to become one of the largest and most successful omnichannel retail and hospitality conglomerates, with presence across 17 countries in the Middle East, Africa, India and Southeast Asia. Based in the UAE since 1990, the Group owns and operates 22 established homegrown brands across an extensive network of more than 2,200 outlets, encompassing a gross leasable area of 33 million square feet. Landmark Group's success is driven by its diverse portfolio of established brands, across multiple retail categories, offering a comprehensive range of products across fashion, home, groceries and electronics. These include Centrepoint, Max Fashion, Home Centre, Babyshop, Splash, Shoemart, Lifestyle, Viva, Emax, Home Box, Styli, Shoexpress, Spar and Easybuy. Beyond retail, Landmark Group has diversified into the leisure, fitness and hospitality sectors with brands like Fitness First, Citymax, Fun City, Fun Ville, Zafran and Carluccio's. The Group boasts unparalleled logistics capabilities, owning the MENA region's largest privately-owned distribution hub - Omega Logistics and Logistiq, which offers state-of-the-art third-party logistics services. Landmark Group places a strong emphasis on delivering exceptional value and achieving customer satisfaction throughout its comprehensive product range. The company has a dedicated workforce of more than 53,000 employees and continues to be certified as a Great Place to Work (GPTW) since 2017. For more information visit our website or follow us on our social media pages on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
Al Bawaba
18-06-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Almosafer Partners with Landmark Group to Reward Travellers with Shukran Points on Travel Bookings
Almosafer, the Middle East's leading travel brand, has announced a strategic partnership with Landmark Group to deliver greater value and flexibility to travellers across the GCC through Shukran, Landmark's award-winning loyalty this collaboration, Almosafer customers across the GCC can earn Shukran Points on travel bookings made through Almosafer's online travel platforms. Additionally, customers can transfer their Almosafer Points to Shukran Points, providing them with even more options for utilising their travel rewards. Shukran Points can be redeemed across Landmark Group's extensive retail network, including Centrepoint, Max Fashion, Home Centre, Splash, Lifestyle, Shoemart, and Emax - creating a seamless connection between travel and everyday lifestyle Singhvi, VP of Consumer Travel at Almosafer, said: 'Our goal has always been to deliver a seamless and enriching experience for our travellers. This partnership with Shukran allows us to add even more value to each journey booked through Almosafer, while also expanding our benefits ecosystem to include one of the region's most trusted loyalty programmes.'James Dickson, Chief Product Officer at Landmark Group said; 'We're thrilled to extend Shukran's reach through our partnership with Almosafer. Shukran is built to reward customers for the lifestyle choices they make every day, and this collaboration is a significant step forward in offering even greater flexibility and value to our members.' The partnership reflects Almosafer's continued commitment to delivering smarter, more rewarding travel experiences across the region. © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba ( Signal PressWire is the world's largest independent Middle East PR distribution service.
Skift
13-06-2025
- Business
- Skift
The Private Sector's Role in Saudi's Travel Ambitions
Global awareness of Saudi Arabia has grown significantly due to high-profile events. But there are challenges to building a travel business in the country. Skift Podcast Compelling discussions with travel industry leaders and creatives who are helping to shape the future of travel. Compelling discussions with travel industry leaders and creatives who are helping to shape the future of travel. Learn More This bonus episode of the Skift Travel Podcast features a discussion with Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO of Almosafer, Saudi Arabia's largest travel and tourism company. Ahussain offered his thoughts on the evolution of the Saudi travel industry, the importance of Saudi travelers, and Almosafer's vision for the country's tourism development, among other topics, with Skift CEO Rafat Ali. Listen Now Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | RSS Five Key Points Saudi Arabia's Emerging Global Travel Influence: Saudi travelers are high-spending and increasingly mobile, making them a valuable segment globally. The country is also a major inbound destination, especially for religious tourism. Domestic Tourism Boom Post-Covid: COVID-19 was a catalyst for domestic tourism, shifting Saudis' travel habits from primarily religious or family visits to leisure exploration of their own country. Growth Priorities – Religious Tourism & Leisure Expansion: While consumer travel remains the core revenue driver, Almosafer sees major near-term growth in religious tourism due to improved infrastructure and accessibility. Leisure tourism is projected to see growth, especially with Saudi Arabia's ongoing developments ahead of major events like Expo 2030 and the World Cup. Evolving Global Perceptions of Saudi Arabia: Global awareness of Saudi Arabia has improved significantly due to high-profile events, sports, and cultural openness. Talent Challenges and Investment in Human Capital: Retaining top local talent is a key challenge due to growing opportunities across the country. Significant national investment has been made in training and development, especially in tourism and hospitality. Episode Summary Skift CEO Rafat Ali and Muzzammil Ahussain discussed Almosafer's role as a leading travel company in Saudi Arabia and its position as a key player in the greater region's tourism industry. Ahussain also shared information about his personal journey, including how his international education shaped his global outlook. The Almosafer CEO provided details about the company's rapid growth, which was boosted by its significant investment in technology. Ahussain also addressed the challenges of building a travel business in Saudi Arabia due to the multitude of holidays on the country's calendar. And he touched on the sense of ambition that drives Saudi Arabia's development, especially as the country is poised for an inbound tourism surge.
