From Muscat To Etihad, Exploring The Most Interesting Tourism News From GCC

From Etihad Airways opening links to 16 more destinations in the Maldives to Muscat International Airport voted the world’s best, here’s a round-up of recent travel and tourism news from the Gulf region – in case you missed it.

Etihad-Maldivian Links In The Limelight

The UAE’s national airline has announced a strategic partnership with the national airline of the Maldives, unlocking access to 16 destinations beyond Male. Etihad passengers can now enjoy combined services and networks from both carriers on a single ticket.

The move has opened up prominent destinations on the Indian Ocean archipelago, including Dharavandhoo Island and Maafaru International Airport. The UAE airline also seeks to increase the frequency of its flights to the capital Male from 10 to 14 per week.

Best and Worst Airports Revealed

According to a new study by passenger rights experts, AirHelp Inc, Oman’s Muscat International Airport has been voted the best across the globe. Its analysis takes into account passenger feedback, on-time performance, and food and shopping options, among others.

Meanwhile, Brazil’s Recife/Guararapes – Gilberto Freyre International came second on the list, followed by South Africa’s Cape Town International, Brazil’s Brasilia – Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek International and Doha’s Hamad International Airport.

Two more Brazilian hubs and three in Japan complete the top 10. On the other hand, the worst airports includes Indonesia’s Banjarmasin Syamsudin Noor International Airport, Malta International Airport, London Gatwick, Lisbon Humberto Delgado and Belgrade Nikola Tesla.

Finishing Touches Put On Palace Dubai Creek Harbour

The new Palace Dubai Creek Harbour is set to open soon. The property features a spa with rooftop infinity pool, while rooms have spacious private balconies to enjoy the skyline views. This is the final Emaar Hospitality Group hotel project in the Dubai Creek Harbour.

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