PM Participates in International Air Transport Association's 81st Annual General Meeting
In line with his commitment to developing world-class air infrastructure and enhancing connectivity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM), at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. He also addressed the gathering on the occasion.
It brought together more than 1,600 participants including top global aviation industry leaders, government officials and international media representatives.
The World Air Transport Summit focused on key issues facing the aviation industry including Economics of the Airline industry, Air Connectivity, Energy Security, Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production, Financing Decarbonisation, Innovations among others.
May 28, 2025
The Philippines Offers Visa-Free Entry to Indian Tourists under New Categories
In a significant move to boost tourism and strengthen bilateral ties, the Philippines has introduced visa-free entry options for Indian nationals under two specific categories.
As of May 2025, eligible Indian travellers can now visit the archipelagic country without a visa for 14 or 30 days depending on their travel credentials.
This development is expected to encourage more Indian tourists to explore the scenic islands, beaches, and cultural sites of the Philippines.
The Philippines Embassy in New Delhi officially announced two new visa-free entry options for Indian citizens, effective May 2025.
These relaxed visa norms are part of the Philippines' broader initiative to enhance tourism, especially from key markets like India, which has shown rising outbound travel trends post-pandemic.
May 26, 2025
Saudi Arabia Launches TOURISE to Shape the Future of Global Tourism
On May 22, 2025, Saudi Arabia officially launched TOURISE, a global platform designed to connect leaders across tourism, technology, investment, and sustainability sectors.
Unveiled by Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb, TOURISE aims to unlock investment opportunities, address challenges facing the tourism industry, and shape future travel policies through collaboration and innovation.
This initiative underscores Saudi Arabia's ambition to become a leading global tourism hub, supported by strategic infrastructure investments and policy reforms.
May 20, 2025
Pakistan Joins India in UAE's 5-year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa List
Pakistani nationals can now apply for the UAE's five-year multiple-entry tourist visa, over a year after the facility was made available to Indian travellers, the UAE's ambassador to Pakistan announced.
The five-year tourist visa allows holders to enter the UAE multiple times from the date of issue without needing a local sponsor or host.
The development follows increased scrutiny of Pakistani travellers in recent months.
May 12, 2025
Bhutan Launches World's First Crypto Tourism Payment System
Bhutan has led the way in travel innovation by becoming the first country to introduce a nationwide crypto payment system for tourism. This new initiative lets travellers use Binance Pay for a fully cashless experience — from booking flights and visas to shopping at local markets.
Through collaboration with Binance Pay and Bhutan's fully digital DK Bank, over 100 merchants across the country now accept crypto payments. Visitors can pay instantly with supported cryptocurrencies for almost every aspect of their trip, including flights, hotel bookings, tours, entrance fees, and purchases in local markets.
This pioneering project combines tradition with technology, empowering local communities and offering a more seamless travel experience.