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ITA Airways, Italy’s national flag carrier, continues its ambitious international expansion strategy by reinforcing its presence in the Middle East — one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. With the recent launch of new nonstop routes to key destinations across the Gulf region, the airline is connecting Italy with high-potential international markets, supporting trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
These new routes mark a significant step in ITA Airways’ long-term vision to establish Rome Fiumicino as a major intercontinental hub. Operated by the cutting-edge Airbus A321neo, the Middle Eastern routes offer passengers a refined travel experience with a three-class cabin configuration — Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. The aircraft also underscores ITA Airways’ sustainability mission, delivering over 20 percent lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions per seat, along with a 50 percent reduction in noise impact compared to previous-generation models.
Passengers flying to and from the Middle East benefit from seamless connections across ITA Airways’ growing network, covering Europe, the Americas, and North Africa, supported by optimized transit through Rome Fiumicino Airport.
Further enhancing the customer journey, ITA Airways recently unveiled its new premium Runway Lounge at Milan Linate Airport — an elegant space that embodies Italian design and excellence. Developed in collaboration with iconic Italian brands such as Campari Group, illycaffè, iGuzzini, and Poltrona Frau, the lounge offers a luxurious and uniquely Italian ambiance.

To celebrate the launch, a fashion show curated by Italian label Silence Please featured designs inspired by ITA Airways’ intercontinental destinations, reinforcing the brand’s connection to Italian creativity and global elegance.

Commenting on the expansion, Jörg Eberhart, CEO of ITA Airways, said: “Our growing footprint in the Middle East is a clear reflection of our long-term commitment to building sustainable and meaningful connections between Europe and this dynamic region. ITA Airways is dedicated to providing a premium and authentically Italian travel experience, supported by a modern fleet and seamless global connectivity. These new routes go beyond commercial value — they represent a vision of smarter, more connected travel that brings people, cultures, and economies closer together.”
As part of its broader growth strategy, ITA Airways continues to invest in fleet renewal, aiming for 90 percent of its aircraft to be next-generation models by 2027 — making it one of the youngest and most environmentally responsible fleets in Europe. Backed by the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Italy and Deutsche Lufthansa AG, ITA Airways is steadily establishing itself as a key player in global aviation, driven by innovation, sustainability, and an unmistakable Italian style.

LuLu Group inaugurated three new value concept stores, called LOT, in �������� in a single day — in Makkah, Saihat in the Eastern Province, and Riyadh. The central launch event took place in Makkah and was attended by dignitaries and government officials.
The Makkah store was inaugurated by Dr. Waleed Basuliman, general manager of investment and partnerships at the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites, alongside LuLu Group Chairman Yusuff Ali M.A.
Nasser Huwaiden Thaiban Ali Alketbi, consul general of the UAE in Jeddah; Yaser Attar, director general of investment and deputy for planning and financial sustainability at Makkah Municipality; Abdulaziz Al-Sindi; Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Rifaei; and business figures from Makkah were also present.
Chairman Ali said: “This expansion reflects our commitment to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and our goal to offer high-quality, affordable products to all.”
He added that with LOT, their aim is to redefine value retailing by making everyday essentials accessible to everyone without compromising on quality.
“Four more LOT stores are in the pipeline in the Kingdom,” the LuLu chairman added.
Located on Abdullah Areef Street in Al-Rusayfah district, the new Makkah LOT store spans 43,000 square feet and is designed to deliver an engaging, budget-friendly shopping experience.
It features a wide selection of household essentials, kitchenware, and fashion for men, women, and children, with a strong emphasis on quality and affordability.
The store also offers ample parking space, enhancing its convenience for residents and visitors alike.
These value concept stores offer a wide range of products at unbeatable prices, with many items priced below SR22 ($5.87).

The Eastern Province outlet, located in Saihat within the LuLu Hypermarket complex on Al-Musib Ibn Rafi Street, offers 24,000 square feet of smart retail space tailored to budget-friendly shoppers.
Meanwhile, the Riyadh location in Al-Malaz features 18,772 square feet of retail space and comprehensive parking facilities.
All three stores opened with exclusive collections and promotional offers, reinforcing LOT’s core mission of making good-quality products accessible at wallet-friendly prices, responding to growing consumer demand for affordable yet high-quality retail experiences.
With this strategic expansion, LuLu continues to strengthen its footprint in the Saudi market, energizing the local retail sector and reaffirming its commitment to delivering value-driven shopping across key cities in the region.