Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

VisitBritain launches Gulf tourism campaign with blockbuster film

VisitBritain, the national tourism agency, has launched a global screen tourism campaign to inspire visitors from the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries to choose Britain for their next trip and explore more of its nations and regions.
 
The campaign, 'Starring GREAT Britain', features a blockbuster-inspired film that takes viewers on a cinematic journey through Britain, giving them a front row seat to the destinations at the heart of the on-screen action.
 
The launch film, directed by Academy Award-winning British director Tom Hooper, is supported by a wider advertising campaign across the UK's largest and most valuable inbound visitor markets including GCC, Australia, France, Germany, and the United States.
 
VisitBritain's screen tourism research shows that over 9 out of 10 potential visitors to the UK would be keen to visit film and TV locations during a trip.
 
Chris Bryant, Tourism Minister, said: “Many of the moments that took your breath away in the cinema were filmed in the United Kingdom. Stunning scenery, amazing cityscapes and great cinematic talent have combined over the years in a truly exceptional way. We want visitors from home and abroad to experience them first-hand by immersing themselves in the scenery and locations made famous thanks to film and TV.
 
“Our tourism industry is already worth £74 billion to the economy and this campaign will help drive more growth by encouraging millions of tourists to visit even more parts of our breathtaking country.
 
“Supporting our Plan for Change, this will help to boost visitor numbers and spend, create opportunity in local communities and set the scene for the UK's thriving visitor economy for years to come.”
 
Patricia Yates, VisitBritain CEO, said:“Britain’s destinations are the real star of the show as we harness the powerful draw of screen tourism to attract visitors from the GCC and drive their spending across our nations and regions, boosting local economies. Using film and TV as the hook we’re telling the story of Britain today, showcasing our dynamic and diverse destinations and putting our welcome centre-stage.
 
“Films, TV and tourism have a lot in common. They bring people together and they can transport us to new places, experiences and adventures. From exploring our vibrant cities, world-class attractions and stunning countryside, the backdrop to so many iconic filming locations, to enjoying our exciting contemporary culture and hospitality, Starring GREAT Britain inspires our visitors from the GCC to put themselves in the picture, discover more and book a trip to Britain right now.”
 
The first phase of the international advertising campaign, with a budget of £8 million ($9 million), started from 20 January and runs until the end of March 2025 in the GCC.
 
The multi-media advertising campaign in the GCC uses a mix of channels to showcase destinations across England, Scotland, and Wales as the backdrop to great stories, action, and adventure.
 
The campaign will be seen in cinemas across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, on large digital billboards in high footfall locations, and branded content across digital and social media on channels such as Meta, Snapchat, YouTube, and ConnectedTV.
 
A screen-tourism hub on VisitBritain's global consumer website offers itineraries themed around film genres, encouraging visitors to broaden their itineraries, discover more regional destinations, and stay longer.
 
 A range of resources are also available for travel trade in the GCC on VisitBritain's trade website, including images inspired by film and TV locations and genres, products available to book through the VisitBritain Shop, and itineraries featuring trade-bookable products. -TradeArabia News Service

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

All-Economy Oman Air Connect launched

Oman Air has launched a new series of all-Economy Class aircraft, designed to offer more affordable travel options while maintaining the airline’s renowned comfort and service.
 
 Oman Air Connect will consist of five Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, the first of which arrived earlier this month. 
 
The new aircraft will primarily operate to the Indian Subcontinent, Middle East, and Africa, complementing the airline’s existing network, while offering greater accessibility to travellers. Alongside several recent service and product enhancements, Oman Air is also preparing to introduce upgraded in-flight entertainment, ensuring a more modern and engaging onboard experience, the airline said.
 
Con Korfiatis, Chief Executive Officer at Oman Air, said: “The way people travel has evolved, with greater accessibility and choice; at the same time, passengers still want to enjoy a comfortable journey. With this all-Economy fleet, we are adapting to these changing needs, providing our guests with more flexibility and choice without compromising on quality.”
 
Oman Air, which embarked on a three-year financial transformation in 2023, has implemented several initiatives to strengthen its position in the market and ensure long-term sustainability. The airline continues to serve over 40 destinations with a mix of wide-body and narrow-body aircraft, offering three cabin classes and a diverse range of fare options. Through these efforts, the award-winning airline remains committed to delivering exceptional travel experiences tailored to the modern traveller. – TradArabia News Service 
 

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Boeing to showcase cutting-edge solutions at Idex

Boeing will present its advanced defence and security capabilities and services at the International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2025) in Abu Dhabi from February 17 to 21. 
 
“IDEX is a key opportunity to engage with partners across the region and showcase how our advanced defense solutions can support the country’s security and aerospace ambitions,” said Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia. 
 
“Our commitment to the UAE spans more than four decades, and we look forward to deepening collaboration through pioneering industrial and technological initiatives and further contributing to the growing domestic defense industrial base.” 
 
At IDEX 2025, among the products being highlighted include:
• T-7 Advanced Trainer – Next-generation pilot training system with fighter-like performance.
• AH-64 Apache – Advanced, combat-proven attack helicopter, evolving for continued battlefield dominance.
• CH-47 Chinook – Multi-mission heavy-lift helicopter with advanced digital cockpit and cargo handling capabilities.
• F-15EX – The backbone of tactical fighter fleets with increased payload capacity, advanced electronic warfare system and the world’s most powerful fighter radar.
• Insitu Integrator ER – Long-range uncrewed system for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. 
 
Boeing will also showcase its services portfolio, including performance-based logistics support, parts, modifications and modernization, upgrades, and training. These offerings are designed to support the defense modernization and mission readiness of customers in the UAE and the Middle East.
 
Boeing has been a trusted partner of the UAE Government since 1978, providing and sustaining advanced defense platforms, including the AH-64 Apache, CH-47 Chinook, and C-17 Globemaster III. These aircraft play a vital role in protecting the UAE’s air, land, and sea borders and supporting global humanitarian missions. 
 
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top US exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. 
 
Boeing's team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Boeing’s relationship with the Middle East extends back to 1945. Since then, Boeing has established several offices across the region including in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Kuwait, and Riyadh, a statement said. - TradeArabia News Service