Gulf Expansion

MSC, TUI, Celestyal, and Aroya Cruises continue to face disruption as regional airspace closures and security concerns keep ships and passengers stranded in Gulf ports

Regional tensions cast a shadow over the world’s leading tourism fair, leaving several Gulf pavilions subdued and business conversations stalled. Industry voices from Jordan and Egypt to PassportNews: “The Middle East deserves stability and hope”

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has updated its air safety guidelines for conflict zones: airlines are asked to take precautions until March 6, 2026

With Gulf airspace closed, British nationals in Israel, Bahrain, Qatar, and UAE must register with FCDO for updates and read the official guide on staying safe indoors and seeking shelter: "Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities"

TUI, MSC, Celestyal, and Aroya ships remain docked in Gulf ports as airspace closures and security alerts disrupt sailing. MSC Euribis: "We regret to inform you that we need to change our itinerary"

Scandinavian airline SAS will resume operations in the Emirates with winter flights between Copenhagen and Al Maktoum Airport. Dubai Airports sees the move as a reinforcement of DWC's status as Dubai's future aviation hub

Danger at sea: According to an official report, about 15 small boats attempted to attack a cargo ship in the Red Sea. The ship's armed security team returned fire, preventing a takeover

October 2025 marked record tourism for Cyprus with 537,744 visitors, a 17% increase from last year; the island transitions into an international aviation and tourism hub, with numerous weekly flights and new routes from the Gulf and Eastern Europe, aiming for year-round tourism

Riyadh Air landed its first flight in London, following its plan to launch commercial operations, and signed its first aircraft lease with AviLease for a Dreamliner

Martin Gauss Takes Helm at Gulf Air