The U.S. government has revealed significant updates to its travel and immigration policies, set to take effect on June 9, 2025. In a sweeping proclamation signed by former President Donald Trump, nationals from 19 countries will face either full or partial travel restrictions, framed under the guise of enhancing national security.

This initiative recalls the contentious travel ban initiated in 2017, which faced widespread backlash from human rights advocates, legal experts, and several international governments. Critics argue that such bans not only harm diplomatic relations but also impact innocent individuals seeking refuge or education in the U.S.

The new measures come amid ongoing debates about immigration reform, national security, and America's role as a global leader in promoting human rights. The travel ban is being positioned as a necessary response to perceived threats, despite concerns that it may disproportionately affect vulnerable populations and foster a climate of fear among immigrants.

As the world grapples with issues of migration and security, these changes are likely to provoke further discussions about the balance between safety and inclusivity in U.S. immigration policy.

Comprehensive Travel Ban for 12 Countries

Under the new rules, the United States will prohibit citizens from 12 nations from entering under almost all visa categories. This includes a complete suspension of tourist, business, student, and immigrant visas. Travelers who hold valid visas may also be denied entry, as each case will undergo individual review.

Countries Subject to the Full Ban (Effective June 9, 2025)

• Afghanistan
• Burma (Myanmar)
• Chad
• Equatorial Guinea
• Eritrea
• Haiti
• Iran
• Libya
• Republic of the Congo
• Somalia
• Sudan
• Yemen

Key Restrictions for These Nations:

• General Entry Ban: Near-total restrictions on entry, with only limited exceptions for diplomatic or urgent humanitarian cases.
• Visa Suspension: The issuance of nearly all non-immigrant and immigrant visas will be paused indefinitely.
• Existing Visas at Risk: Holders of valid visas may still be denied entry based on individual assessments, raising concerns among travelers and their families.

Targeted Restrictions for 7 Additional Countries

In addition to the full ban, seven countries will experience specific restrictions, which may involve increased scrutiny, targeted visa category suspensions, or significant delays in processing.

Countries Facing Partial Restrictions

• Burundi
• Cuba
• Laos
• Sierra Leone
• Togo
• Turkmenistan
• Venezuela

Key Restrictions Explained:

• Valid Visas May Be Rejected: Even those with valid U.S. visas could be denied entry based on individual case reviews, creating uncertainty for many travelers.
• Complete Entry Ban: Citizens from these countries will be prohibited from entering the U.S. under any visa type, impacting family reunification efforts.
• Limited Exceptions: Entry may be allowed in rare instances, primarily for diplomats or urgent humanitarian needs, which may not cover all individual circumstances.
• All Visas Suspended: Visa issuance for individuals from these nations will cease until further notice, prompting concerns about long-term immigration pathways.

Harvard University Under Fire

In a separate proclamation dated June 4, 2025, President Trump announced a temporary ban on new international student admissions to Harvard University. This decision stems from alleged national security concerns, with accusations that Harvard has not cooperated with federal investigations into foreign students involved in suspicious activities.

Implications:

• A six-month suspension on international student admissions to Harvard, with potential for further extensions, could disrupt the academic plans of many students worldwide.
• This action could set a precedent for other universities facing scrutiny under national security grounds, impacting the broader academic landscape.

Columbia University Also in the Spotlight

Columbia University is facing threats from the Trump administration regarding its federal accreditation, citing concerns over its handling of harassment against Jewish students. If these threats are realized, it could lead to the loss of federal funding and significantly impact student financial aid eligibility, creating significant uncertainty for both domestic and international students.

New ESTA Requirements for Visa-Free Travelers

Travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries will also be affected by these changes. The U.S. government has introduced a new biometric requirement in the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) process, requiring travelers to upload a facial photo during their application.

Motivations Behind the Ban

This announcement follows a recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, involving an Egyptian national residing illegally in the U.S. While Egypt is not included in the ban, Trump highlighted this incident to underscore perceived vulnerabilities within the immigration system. “The recent terror attack in Boulder has highlighted the risks posed by foreign nationals who are not properly vetted,” Trump noted in a press conference.

Recommendations for Travelers

For those planning to travel to the U.S. in 2025, especially from affected countries, here are essential steps to take:

• Check Your Visa Status: Valid visas could still be subject to denial under the new regulations, complicating travel plans.
• Review New ESTA Requirements: Ensure that all required biometrics, including the new facial photo, are submitted with your application to avoid processing delays.
• Stay Updated on University Policies: International students should monitor announcements from institutions like Harvard and Columbia, as their admissions processes are in flux.
• Prepare for Processing Delays: Heightened security checks may significantly extend visa processing times, necessitating early applications and contingency planning.

Broader Implications for Global Travel

This travel proclamation marks a significant return to Trump-era immigration policies, raising broader implications for global mobility, higher education, and visa-free travel. The tightening of restrictions may deter international travel to the U.S., affecting tourism, international relations, and economic ties. Industries reliant on international visitors, such as hospitality and education, may face significant downturns, leading to economic consequences.

Additionally, the new policies could foster a climate of fear and uncertainty among immigrant communities, further complicating the already challenging landscape of U.S. immigration. Advocacy groups are likely to mobilize against these measures, arguing that they infringe on human rights and contradict the country’s values of inclusivity.

As potential further policy changes loom on the horizon, international travelers are encouraged to stay informed and seek legal advice as needed.

In summary, this evolving landscape of U.S. immigration policy signals a pivotal moment for travelers and educational institutions alike, with potential long-term effects on the U.S.'s role in the global community. The ramifications of these decisions will likely be felt far beyond American borders, reshaping the dynamics of international travel and academic collaboration for years to come.

In a landmark move to simplify travel and enhance bilateral relations, Kuwaiti citizens can now apply for Indian e-visas entirely online beginning Monday, July 14, 2025. The announcement was made by Dr. Adarsh Swaika, India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, who described the launch as a “qualitative shift” in India-Kuwait engagement.

The new digital platform covers five visa categories: tourism, business, medical, conference, and AYUSH (alternative medicine including yoga and Ayurveda). Applicants no longer need to visit visa centers; all steps including application submission, document upload, and payment are completed online.

Key features of the e-visa system include:

Tourist visas valid for up to five years at a fee of $80
Other visa fees range from $40 to $80 depending on type and duration
Biometric data collection upon arrival at Indian airports
Typical processing time of three to four days, with minor technical issues possible during rollout

Ambassador Swaika emphasized that this initiative responds to a long-standing request from Kuwaiti citizens and reflects the deep historic and cultural ties between the two nations. The move also aligns with India’s broader efforts to modernize consular services and strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people connections in the Gulf region.

The e-visa allows for a variety of short-term activities such as tourism, business meetings, medical treatment (including under Indian traditional medicine systems), attending conferences, and participation in yoga or Ayurveda programs.

Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and possess a return or onward ticket. The Indian Consulate in Kuwait will continue to accept paper visa applications for those who prefer traditional processing.

This digital visa rollout is expected to boost travel, trade, and cultural exchange between India and Kuwait, supporting the growing interest among Kuwaitis in Indian tourism, healthcare, and business opportunities.
For more information and to apply, Kuwaiti citizens can access the official Indian e-visa portal, which provides guidance in both English and Arabic.

This development marks a significant step forward in facilitating seamless cross-border travel and enhancing the longstanding friendship between India and Kuwait.

Riyadh Air is ramping up preparations to finally launch its long-awaited Boeing 787 flights, following an extended period on the sidelines. As the calendar moves past the midpoint of 2025, the new Saudi Arabian carrier remains optimistic that it will take to the skies before the year concludes.

If current plans hold, Riyadh Air aims to inaugurate service to two European cities by the end of 2025. This marks the start of a broader expansion strategy, with more global destinations expected to be added as additional 787s and other aircraft join the fleet.

The journey to launch has been anything but smooth for Riyadh Air. Securing an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the General Authority of Civil Aviation in April 2025 was a major milestone, following a rigorous six-month testing campaign. However, the celebration was short-lived: just days after receiving the AOC, the airline announced another postponement, pushing the anticipated first flight to the fourth quarter of 2025.

This latest delay scrapped earlier plans for a Q3 debut. In fact, Riyadh Air’s inaugural flight was originally expected much sooner, but a series of setbacks have kept the airline grounded.

A significant factor behind the repeated delays has been Boeing’s well-publicized delivery challenges. Riyadh Air, like many other airlines worldwide, has struggled to receive new aircraft on schedule. These industry-wide setbacks have forced airlines to reconsider fleet plans, delay retirements of older jets, and, in Riyadh Air’s case, postpone the launch of scheduled passenger operations.

Despite the hurdles, Riyadh Air remains committed to its vision of becoming a major player in international aviation. With regulatory approval secured and preparations underway, the airline is poised to make its long-anticipated debut—pending timely aircraft deliveries and the resolution of industry supply chain issues.
As the end of 2025 approaches, all eyes are on Riyadh Air to see if it can finally turn plans into reality and begin connecting Saudi Arabia to the world.

Qatar Airways has introduced Privilege Club Pro, a new subscription service within its loyalty programme that enables members to earn additional Avios and Qpoints each month. This marks the first time a loyalty programme using Avios has launched a subscription model allowing members to collect status points, setting a new standard for boosting rewards and advancing tier status.

Developed in partnership with Points, a Plusgrade company specializing in ancillary revenue solutions, Privilege Club Pro allows members to accelerate their Avios balances. Subscribers can enjoy a range of rewards, such as bidding on exclusive experiences through Privilege Club Collection, booking award seat flights, shopping at Qatar Duty Free, and accessing hundreds of partners worldwide.

Christophe Guittard, Senior Vice President Business-to-Consumer at Qatar Airways, commented, “As a lifestyle loyalty programme, Privilege Club continues to expand the way members engage with their everyday transactions by ensuring steady, predictable progress toward meaningful rewards. Our latest addition, Privilege Club Pro, is a flexible subscription offering that brings members closer to their goals.

 By boosting their monthly Avios and Qpoints balance, members can now plan ahead for their dream trip or elevate their journey with upgrades and exclusive moments at Qatar Duty Free home to one of the most expansive collections of luxury brands in any airport, alongside curated boutiques and world-class dining options. It reflects our continued commitment to rewarding loyalty in more personal, relevant, and exciting ways, and we look forward to welcoming members to this new chapter.”

Members can subscribe to Privilege Club Pro via qatarairways.com or the Qatar Airways app, choosing from monthly or yearly plans across four tiers:

• Access: 2,500 Avios per month; USD 50/month or USD 500/year
• Select: 7,500 Avios per month; USD 130/month or USD 1,300/year
• Exclusive: 15,000 Avios per month; USD 240/month or USD 2,400/year
• Ultimate: 20,000 Avios and five Qpoints per month; USD 350/month or USD 3,500/year

The Ultimate tier includes Qpoints, which help members maintain or upgrade their loyalty status. The required Qpoints for tier upgrades are as follows: Burgundy to Silver – 150 Qpoints, Silver to Gold – 300 Qpoints, and Gold to Platinum – 600 Qpoints.

Privilege Club members can spend Avios on curated sports, entertainment, lifestyle, and culture packages through Privilege Club Collection, including access to global events like the FIFA World Cup 2026, Formula 1, and UEFA Champions League. Travelers passing through Hamad International Airport recently named the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ by Skytrax in 2025 can also redeem Avios at Qatar Duty Free, which features over 200 outlets offering luxury shopping, unique dining, and convenient express shops.

ge Club Pro offers members a flexible and rewarding way to accelerate their travel benefits, providing more opportunities to enjoy exclusive experiences and elevate their loyalty status.

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.

Air Arabia, one of the UAE’s leading low-cost carriers, is set to launch a new direct route from Sharjah International Airport to Munich, Germany, starting December 15, 2025. This exciting development offers travelers an affordable gateway to one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, with one-way fares starting at just Dhs794 and round-trip tickets from Dhs1,393.

The timing of the launch is perfect for those eager to experience Munich’s famous Christmas markets, historic landmarks, and cultural highlights such as the English Garden, Oktoberfest festivities, and live football matches at the Allianz Arena. Munich, a key economic and cultural hub in southern Germany, is a strategic addition to Air Arabia’s expanding European network, which already includes destinations like Vienna, Athens, Milan Bergamo, Krakow, Warsaw, and Prague.

Air Arabia will operate daily non-stop flights using its modern Airbus A320neo aircraft, known for fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. The airline’s CEO, Adel Al Ali, emphasized that the new route underscores Air Arabia’s commitment to providing affordable, value-driven travel options while supporting long-term growth. He highlighted Munich’s appeal to both business and leisure travelers and expressed enthusiasm about welcoming passengers onboard for a seamless travel experience.

This new service enhances connectivity between the UAE and Germany, complementing existing routes operated by Emirates and Etihad to German cities including Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, and Hamburg. Munich Airport officials have welcomed the route, noting its importance in strengthening ties between the Gulf region and Germany.

Passengers can book their flights through Air Arabia’s website, call center, or travel agencies, and enjoy onboard amenities such as the free SkyTime streaming service and the SkyCafe buy-on-board menu. The launch of the Sharjah–Munich route not only broadens travel choices but also supports tourism, business, and cultural exchange between the two regions, marking a significant milestone in Air Arabia’s European expansion strategy.