Emirates has once again redefined excellence at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, marking its most successful presence to date with record visitor numbers and nearly 40 strategic partnerships forged across the global travel ecosystem. Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 28 to May 1, the event brought together over 55,000 industry professionals from 161 countries and featured more than 2,800 exhibitors, making it the largest edition in ATM’s 32-year history.

Record-Breaking Engagement and Showcase of Innovation

Emirates’ stand was the centerpiece of ATM 2025, welcoming a staggering 27,000 visitors over the four-day event. Attendees experienced firsthand the airline’s latest innovations, including the new-generation A350 Business Class and Premium Economy seats, the signature Onboard Lounge and Shower Spa, and a dedicated showcase of sustainability and accessible travel initiatives.

The presence of high-profile guests, including UAE royal dignitaries such as His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, underscored the airline’s leadership in shaping the future of global travel.

Forging the Future Through Strategic Partnerships

Emirates announced nearly 40 strategic partnerships, spanning tourism boards, ministries from 21 countries, technology partners, cruise lines, airlines, and rail operators. Among the most notable collaborations were the extension of the long-term partnership with MSC Cruises and a new agreement with Hapag-Lloyd, both aimed at reinforcing Dubai’s status as a premier cruise hub and enriching the air-sea travel experience for passengers.

Emirates also reinforced its executive partnership with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), further solidifying its leadership in the luxury cruise segment.

In the aviation sector, Emirates expanded its global reach through new interline and codeshare agreements. The airline explored the framework for an interline agreement with Kuwait Airways and began discussions on reciprocal codesharing with Philippine Airlines.

Emirates also officially activated its codeshare partnership with Condor, granting Condor passengers access to 13 Emirates destinations via Dubai, including popular leisure spots such as Bali, Bangkok, Phuket, and Cape Town. Additionally, a new codeshare agreement with Air Seychelles was established, further broadening Emirates’ network and offering seamless connectivity for travelers across continents.

Elevating the Passenger Experience

Emirates unveiled a fleet of retrofitted aircraft featuring refreshed interiors, with upgraded A380s now serving key routes to Bangkok, Hong Kong, Nice, and Perth, and renovated Boeing 777s deployed on routes to Madrid, Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, Frankfurt, and Dublin. These enhancements are part of Emirates’ ongoing mission to deliver a refined, luxurious travel experience and to position itself at the forefront of the industry’s evolution.

Empowering the Travel Ecosystem

Recognizing the diverse needs of the global travel market, Emirates launched a series of initiatives aimed at empowering different travel segments. The airline hosted its first-ever travel industry workshop series, partnering with seven tourism boards and attracting over 350 trade partners from 15 countries.

These workshops, alongside more than 600 industry meetings and networking sessions, provided a platform for knowledge exchange and fostered deeper collaboration within the travel sector. Emirates also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with American Express Middle East, exploring new offerings for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the Middle East and North Africa. This partnership is expected to deliver tailored payment solutions and exclusive incentives, further supporting the region’s vibrant SME sector.

A Vision for Tomorrow’s Tourism

The announcements at ATM 2025 reflect Emirates’ ambitious vision for the future of international travel, perfectly aligned with the event’s theme, “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.” By leveraging its extensive network, cutting-edge technology, and strategic partnerships, Emirates is not only elevating the passenger experience but also driving the growth of global tourism.

As the airline celebrates its 40th year of operations, its bold innovations and collaborative approach signal a new chapter in the evolution of international travel.

A Platform for Global Dialogue and Collaboration

Emirates’ presence at ATM 2025 was not limited to product launches and partnership signings. The airline played a pivotal role in fostering dialogue and collaboration among global tourism stakeholders. Emirates welcomed delegations from around the world, including a high-profile visit from Jamaica’s Ministry of Tourism, and renewed longstanding relationships with organizations such as the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), IDP Education, and Huawei.

These engagements reflect Emirates’ holistic approach to tourism development, encompassing everything from student travel and business events to digital innovation and destination marketing.

As the global travel industry continues to recover and evolve, Emirates’ leadership at ATM 2025 sets a powerful example for how visionary thinking, strategic partnerships, and customer-centric innovation can drive the future of tourism forward

Since its launch in 2013, Greece’s Golden Visa Program has emerged as one of Europe’s most affordable and attractive residence-by-investment schemes. Designed to draw foreign investors and their families, the program offers permanent residence permits in Greece in exchange for qualifying investments. Beyond securing a foothold in this picturesque Mediterranean country, holders enjoy visa-free access to the broader Schengen Area, unlocking opportunities for travel, education, and long-term settlement throughout much of Europe.

At its core, the Golden Visa grants investors the right to live in Greece without requiring them to reside there permanently. While the investment must be maintained to renew the residence permit every five years, applicants can pursue Greek citizenship after seven years of continuous residence—a compelling prospect for those seeking deeper ties to Europe.

One of the program’s key attractions is its family inclusion provision, allowing the primary applicant to include their spouse, dependent children under 21, and dependent parents from both sides, offering a pathway for entire families to benefit from the residence permit.

The program’s investment thresholds vary according to the type and location of assets. The most accessible option starts at €250,000, specifically for specialized real estate projects like restoration of listed buildings or conversion of commercial properties. For broader real estate purchases, a minimum investment of €400,000 is required for a single property of at least 120 sqm, with prime locations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and the larger Greek islands commanding a higher threshold of €800,000.

Beyond property, the scheme includes other qualifying routes. Investors can opt for long-term lease agreements for hotels or furnished tourist residences, generally valued between €400,000 and €800,000 based on location. Financial investments are also accepted, including a €500,000 deposit in Greek credit institutions, capital contributions of the same amount in Greek companies or mutual funds, or the purchase of government bonds maturing in at least three years. Additionally, investments in listed shares, corporate bonds, or mutual funds linked to Greece range from €350,000 to €800,000.

For global investors, the program offers a wealth of benefits. Apart from visa-free travel across the Schengen zone, holders can live in Greece without mandatory minimum stays. Investment properties may be rented out, while shares in Greek companies can yield dividends, providing financial flexibility. As long as the investment is maintained, the residence permit has no expiry limit and can be renewed every five years.

Furthermore, residents gain access to Greece’s reputable education and healthcare systems, enhancing its appeal for families seeking stability and quality of life in Europe.

The application process typically involves four key steps. Prospective investors first visit Greece to select their preferred investment. They then complete their property purchase or financial transaction before submitting the application accompanied by essential documents such as passports, proof of investment, health insurance, and clean criminal records. After undergoing final verification, the residence permit is issued. Processing times can vary, with many applicants engaging legal and advisory firms to ensure compliance with all documentation requirements.

Greece’s Golden Visa Program stands out not only because of its affordability but also due to the country’s stable legal system, quality healthcare, and solid education network. Its strategic geographic location facilitates easy connections to Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a gateway for global mobility.

Today, the Greece Golden Visa remains a top choice for investors seeking residency security and enhanced mobility within Europe. With its adaptable investment options, family inclusiveness, and an inviting lifestyle, the program continues to attract applicants from around the world eager to make Greece their new home.

Starting September 1, travelers to Bali, including Kiwis, must adapt to a new customs and immigration process with the introduction of the All Indonesia declaration card. This streamlined declaration form merges the existing customs and immigration processes into one, simplifying entry procedures at Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Travelers are required to complete the All Indonesia declaration online no more than 72 hours before their flight, which then generates a QR code to be presented upon arrival for immigration clearance. While the form integrates multiple procedures, it does not replace visa requirements, which must still be obtained separately.

Currently, this digital declaration system is being rolled out exclusively in Bali, with plans to extend it across all Indonesian international airports by October 1. The introduction of the All Indonesia system follows earlier changes this year, including a $15.50 (150,000 IDR) tourist levy implemented by the Bali Provincial Government to fund initiatives focused on preserving the island’s culture and natural environment.

This new approach aims to create a faster, more efficient, and user-friendly entry experience for travelers entering Bali while maintaining compliance with Indonesia’s immigration, customs, and health requirements.

Abu Dhabi is home to Etihad Airways, the UAE's national airline and one of the world's top carriers, offering a travel experience that goes far beyond simply getting from point A to B. Travelers can enjoy unique perks such as a free two-night stay at luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi when booking long-haul flights with stopovers, allowing for a mini-vacation within their journey.

The stopover experience is further enhanced with a Stopover Pass that provides 15 percent discounts on major attractions and Yas Island theme parks, along with a complimentary local SIM card loaded with 10GB data for seamless connectivity.

Passengers who booked Economy tickets can bid for upgrades to Business or First Class up to four hours before departure, gaining access to fully reclining seats and gourmet meals. Loyalty members enjoy an additional bonus on miles for successful bids. The Etihad Guest loyalty program rewards travelers who reach Silver status with free access to the luxurious Etihad Lounge at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, featuring vast buffets, bars, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Staying connected in-flight is made easy with free messaging on popular apps for all loyalty members, while First Class and Platinum members enjoy complimentary full Wi-Fi. For sports fans, Etihad streams live major sporting events on longer flights, ensuring passengers don’t miss crucial matches. Lastly, the airline offers the exceptional A380 multi-room private Residence suite on select routes, featuring a bedroom with a double bed, an ensuite bathroom with a shower, a plush living room, personalized dining, and even a spa treatment at the airport.

These features, along with attentive service and innovative amenities such as pre-order shopping and the Flying Nanny childcare service, make Etihad Airways a standout choice for travelers seeking comfort, luxury, and unique experiences from their flight.

Singapore Changi Airport is widely recognized as a premier dining destination, celebrated for its extensive range of food offerings catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Unlike typical airports known for overpriced and mediocre meals, Changi has curated a compelling food experience that attracts not only travelers but also many locals who regularly visit for casual dining and family outings.

The airport features over 300 dining establishments across its terminals and the Jewel Changi Airport complex, including casual eateries, food courts replicating Singapore’s famous hawker centers, and upscale restaurants. Its culinary variety ranges from local favorites like laksa, chicken rice, and roti prata to international cuisines such as Korean bibimbap and Indian specialties, tailored to the predominant flows of travelers in each terminal. Family-friendly options like Crown Prince Kitchenette are especially popular with locals.

Changi Airport Group maintains hands-on involvement in planning food and beverage outlets, focusing on passenger flow, seating comfort, and pricing equity with popular city locales like Orchard Road. Affordable prices, such as $2 coffees, are deliberately offered alongside premium dining experiences. Jewel Changi adds a unique dimension with spacious dining venues showcasing both global brands and local favorites, fostering a vibrant gastronomic hub.

Several new restaurants have launched recently, including Claypot Daddy and Gwangjang Gaon, blending affordable meals with authentic regional flavors. Innovative concepts such as a guided food trail game enhance engagement for both visitors and locals. Airport dining also adapts to operational constraints like kitchen exhaust limitations, ensuring quality and convenience with curated menus.

With ongoing expansion plans for Terminal 5, Changi aims to further broaden its dining portfolio with larger restaurants and more diverse offerings, securing its place as a world-leading airport culinary destination that celebrates Singapore’s rich food culture while meeting the needs of global travelers.

Dubai  Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports has unveiled a 60-day grace period allowing visitors with expired visit visas to leave the country legally without facing penalties. The initiative, which took effect on July 26, 2025 (1 Safar 1447 AH), applies to all categories of visit visas, including tourist, family, business, Umrah, and transit visas that have expired.

This window offers a final opportunity for eligible visitors to extend their visas solely for the purpose of a lawful exit from the Kingdom. Visitors are urged to settle any outstanding fines or fees through official channels using the “Sadad” payment system before completing the visa extension and departure process.

The move reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to providing flexible, humanitarian, and administrative solutions to residency violations, aiming to facilitate smooth and compliant departures for overstaying visitors without imposing additional burdens. Authorities called on affected individuals to act promptly within the 60-day timeframe to avoid legal repercussions and regularize their status through organized procedures.

This significant extension builds upon an earlier 30-day grace period initiated in June 2025, reinforcing the Kingdom’s efforts to streamline residency compliance amid growing travel demands. Visitors must use the Ministry of Interior’s “Absher” platform to apply for the extension and finalize their exit arrangements within the designated period. Failure to comply may result in fines or legal consequences.

This updated grace period is expected to alleviate pressure on both visitors and authorities, promoting orderly exits and maintaining Saudi Arabia’s image as a visitor-friendly destination.