Dubai airport tops global ranking again with 95.2 million passengers DXB has been the world’s busiest airport since 2014 and eyes nearly 100 million passengers in 2026. United Arab Emirates
Analysis Why Algeria's nixing of UAE air deal is more diplomatic than economic Algeria has begun canceling its air services agreement with the UAE amid heightened tensions over the Gulf country’s foreign policy in the region. By Jack Dutton In Bristol, reporting on regional business, climate change, AI, tech
Saudi Arabia signs first visa-free travel agreement with Russia: What to know The deal will allow citizens of either country to enter visa-free for 90 days for tourism, business and family visits. Saudi Arabia
Israel's El Al posts record $203M Q3 profit as foreign airlines trickle back Many international airlines have now resumed flights to Israel following a truce to end the Gaza war. Israel
Video: Egypt's alabaster industry shattered Among the casualties of Egypt's declining tourism are the alabaster sculptures that remain unsold on the shelves. Egypt
Iran turns to tourism to earn hard currency, create jobs From developing infrastructure to expanding marine tourism and easing visa issuances, Iran is increasingly focusing on its underdeveloped tourism sector as US sanctions are reimposed. Iran
Putin, Sisi take Russia-Egypt relations to 'strategic level' Moscow and Cairo signed a strategic cooperation agreement that is supposed to open new venues for bilateral relations in the military, political and cultural domains. Egypt
Egyptians outraged by wedding photos as ancient sites tapped for revenue Egypt's cash-strapped Ministry of Antiques is making money from renting out historical venues, but the public is less than pleased with archaeological venues being used for private events. Egypt
Iraq's religious tourism suffers from US sanctions on Iran The number of Iranian pilgrims traveling to Iraq for religious holidays is expected to witness a sharp decline due to the impact of US economic penalties on Iran. Iraq
Southern Sinai Peninsula seeks return of tourism Tourism in Egypt's South Sinai governorate was dealt a blow after authorities banned the use of SUVs and closed off many mountain trails throughout the peninsula because of security concerns. Egypt
Can dry hotels boost Tunisia's ailing tourism sector? In 2014, Tunisia had only one alcohol-free hotel. Now, as their number rises, the government is less than pleased. Tunisia
Turkey’s passion for Jerusalem does little for Palestinians Despite the frequent and lofty promises by Turkish officials, major steps that would seriously contribute to the Palestinian economy hinge on Turkey’s attention to sensitive points in its relations with Israel. Palestine
Egyptians outraged at plans to leave best beaches to tourists Egypt has a bad record when it comes to tourist harassment, but keeping locals out of beaches in Alexandria may not be the best way to prevent it. Egypt
Egypt delivers Friday sermons in English, French The Egyptian Ministry of Awqaf is teaching imams and preachers foreign languages in order for them to deliver Friday sermons in French and English and spread moderate teachings of Islam in tourist areas. Egypt
Will smaller plates help prevent Egypt's food waste? The Egyptian Food Bank has been cooperating with Egypt's hospitality industry to get surplus food to people in need, but this is only part of the huge problem of food waste. Egypt
Sharp increase in Iranian visitors revitalizes Turkey's tourism sector Passenger trains between the Turkish city of Van and Tabriz in Iran are resuming, providing further good news to the Turkish tourism industry that counts on Iranian tourists while other nationalities stay away. Turkey
