In an extraordinary event, snow fell in Saudi Arabia's Al-Jawf region for the first time in recorded history, converting the typically sun-soaked desert into a stunning winter landscape. Residents of Al-Jawf were surprised to find their familiar, parched terrain covered in snow, creating an almost surreal "winter wonderland." There was not just snowfall following this unusual phenomenon; there was also torrential rain, hail, and even waterfalls, indicating an unusual weather event in the area. A peculiar meteorological pattern, according to the Saudi Press Agency, was what caused the shift
The Travel Authority of Thailand (TAT) marks its 42nd appearance at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, introducing its new 'Meaningful Relationship' communication concept and initiatives promoting sustainable travel. Princess Ubolratana paid a special visit to the Thailand Stand, which will be on display at ExCel London from November 6-8, 2023, and participated in a ‘souvenir by the sea' workshop, crafting bags out of abandoned fishing nets. Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Minister of Tourism and Sports, and Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of TAT, officially opened the Thailand
Thailand has announced 2025 as the "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year," a substantial drive to boost its status as a leading worldwide tourism and sports destination. Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, made the news at the Amazing Thailand Press Conference, held during the World Travel Market (WTM) 2024. Mr. Sorawong described the effort as both a celebration and a warm welcome to travellers from all over the world to create unforgettable experiences in Thailand. To meet its tourism target of £75.55 billion (3.4 trillion Baht) in 2025, Thailan
Following Donald Trump's stunning victory against Kamala Harris in the US presidential election, world leaders rushed to congratulate him, expressing hope for renewed collaboration and global stability. Mao Ning, China's foreign ministry spokesperson, emphasised the country's continuous commitment to "mutual respect" while dealing with US-China ties. Russia's response, however, was cautious, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating that future relations will be dependent on Trump's "concrete actions." Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump's "historic comeback," describing i
Thailand's visa-free immigration program for Indian people, which was originally scheduled to end on November 11, 2024, has been extended indefinitely. Under this arrangement, Indian visitors are allowed to enter Thailand without a visa and remain for a maximum of 60 days; local immigration offices can grant an additional 30-day stay. By making Thailand's rich cultural experiences, breathtaking scenery, and legendary hospitality more accessible to Indians, the expanded policy seeks to improve travel convenience. As indicated by TAT, this move has already been confirmed. Royal Thai Embassy
Axiom Space, a U.S.-based space firm, is now looking into the potential use of Indian launch vehicles for their journey to the International Space Station. This project is in line with Axiom's larger objective of building a private space station that might eventually take the place of the International Space Station, which NASA plans to retire around 2030. While no contracts have been signed, Pearly Pandya, director of international government business at Axiom, stated that discussions are ongoing with the ISRO and private Indian launch companies to determine the most appropriate partnersh
Singaporean parents have reason to celebrate as the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) announced a proposal to add 40,000 new infant and childcare slots over the next five years. This plan, which is set to run from 2025 to 2029, would provide relief to many urban parents looking for dependable childcare options. The ECDA, which was founded on April 1, 2013, functions independently under the supervision of Singapore's Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF). According to CNA, ECDA will cooperate with five anchor operators to build these new
Archaeologists have discovered a 4,000-year-old fortified town in northwest Saudi Arabia's Khaybar Oasis, providing new insights into the historic shift from nomadic to urban life. The ancient settlement of al-Natah, located in the arid Khaybar oasis, exemplifies early social organisation and intricate urban planning. The study's findings, published in PLOS One, show that the town could support up to 500 people and was divided into various zones for residential living, governance, and burial, emphasising its historical significance in the region. Led by French archaeologist Guillaume Charl
In response to escalating climate problems, Dubai is undergoing major infrastructure construction to increase rainfall drainage capacity, with the goal of greatly reducing future flood hazards. This preemptive attempt follows April's record rainfall, when Dubai received a year's worth of rain in a single day, resulting in significant holdups. In June, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, approved the Dh30 billion 'Tasreef' project. The Tasreef project, which aims to increase drainage capacity by 700%, is expect
Thailand is expanding its tourism reach by boosting cross-border linkages with Malaysia, to increase regional visitation. While Malaysia slid from Thailand's top source market in 2023 to second place this year, Malaysian visitor numbers are expected to exceed last year's record of 4.4 million visitors. From January 1 to October 23, 2024, more than 4 million Malaysians visited Thailand, with hopes of exceeding 5 million by the end of the year. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects THB 3.5 trillion ($103 billion) in tourism earnings and 36.7 million international tourists in 2024.