The Times Kuwait Report
As travel horizons widen for Kuwaiti explorers, Armenia is reasserting itself as a standout destination, blending dramatic landscapes with one of the world’s oldest living civilizations. The journey has become even more accessible following Jazeera Airways’ launch of direct flights to Yerevan, turning the so-called “Jewel of the South Caucasus” into an easy and appealing getaway just two hours away.
The growing interest is already evident. In just four months, around 5,000 passengers have traveled on the direct Kuwait–Yerevan route, a figure that reflects rising demand and a renewed curiosity about Armenia’s culture, safety, and natural charm.
This increased connectivity is also opening doors to broader tourism flows and deeper economic ties between the two countries, placing Armenia firmly on the regional travel map as a safe, refined, and welcoming destination.
Jazeera Airways Chief Executive Barathan Pasupathi announced that the airline began operating direct flights between Kuwait and Yerevan on July 8, adding a new destination to its network at competitive fares.
Speaking to the media during visit to Armenia, he said the airline currently operates three flights a week, offering travelers flexibility and convenience.
Pasupathi noted that Armenia appeals to a wide range of travelers thanks to its rich heritage, striking scenery, and year-round tourism potential. He highlighted that the country ranked among the top 10 safest nations globally in 2024, according to the Numbeo index, making it particularly attractive for families and summer holidaymakers.
He added that the short flight duration makes Armenia ideal for long weekends, and expressed pride in Jazeera Airways being the only carrier offering a direct connection between Kuwait and Armenia. The experience, he said, is further enhanced by visa-free entry for Kuwaiti citizens, simplifying travel and encouraging repeat visits.
From Armenia’s perspective, the new air link represents more than tourism growth. Levon Petrosyan, Director of the Middle East Department at the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the country’s location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia gives it a unique cultural and historical depth, supported by a long-standing tradition of hospitality.
Petrosyan said Armenia’s abundance of historical landmarks and archaeological sites, combined with festivals and cultural events throughout the year, has transformed it into a vibrant, all-season destination. Its proximity to Kuwait, he added, makes it one of the closest European travel options, especially with visa exemptions in place for Kuwaiti visitors and residents.
Petrosyan also pointed to recent advances in infrastructure, ecotourism, wellness tourism, and culinary experiences, offering visitors a diverse range of activities. Armenia’s consistent ranking among the world’s safest countries, he said, reflects a strong commitment to visitor security and quality of life.
Beyond travel, Petrosyan said Armenia is ready to expand economic cooperation amid positive shifts in the South Caucasus. He highlighted the “Crossroads of Peace” initiative and the complementary TRIPP project as key platforms for boosting regional connectivity and unlocking new trade and investment opportunities.
He stressed that Armenia welcomes Kuwaiti investment, offering a stable and transparent business environment supported by economic growth, skilled talent, advanced technology, and investor-friendly regulations. Promising sectors include information technology, renewable energy, agriculture, real estate, hospitality, and manufacturing, all underpinned by a focus on good governance and international partnerships.
Armenia’s second-largest city, Gyumri, offers visitors a deeply authentic experience shaped by history, craftsmanship, and local flavor.
One of its most famous stops is “Punchek Muntchek” Café, celebrated nationwide for its fried pastry known locally as ponchik. With its crisp exterior and soft filling—traditionally vanilla cream, or Nutella in modern variations—the café has become so iconic that visitors travel hours just to taste what many call the best ponchik in Armenia.
Gyumri also preserves a rare Soviet-era barbershop that has been operating for more than six decades. From the furniture to the tools, everything remains unchanged, turning a routine haircut into a journey back in time. Some barbers have worked there for over 50 years, keeping the craft and atmosphere alive.
Another defining landmark is the Cathedral of Our Lady, locally known as Estfedtsatin. Built in the 19th century from black tuff stone, the church is a striking example of Armenian architecture.
It is also known as the “Seven Wounds” Cathedral, named after a revered icon depicting the Seven Sorrows of Mary, making it one of Gyumri’s most significant spiritual sites.
Locally, Armenians refer to their country as “Hayastan”, derived from Hay (Armenian) and stan (land), meaning “Land of the Armenians.” The name Armenia, used internationally, traces its roots to ancient Greek sources, whose pronunciation helped shape the name recognized today.