Category Archives: Agents

Boutique Group  marks its first independent participation at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) highlighting its commitment to redefining the luxury hospitality experience by transforming some of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic former royal residences, among other cultural and historic landmarks, into ultra-luxury hotels. Boutique Group also announced details of a new Memorandum of Understanding signed with ALTANFEETHI luxury concierge service to cooperatively exchange knowledge and expertise to develop and enhance guest experience at airports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Boutique Group’s portfolio includes the stunning Al Hamra Palace in Jeddah, known for hosting some of the world’s most prominent international public figures, the Red Palace in the heart of old Riyadh, which adorned the SAR 100 bank note and served as the home to the Council of Ministers for three decades, and the Aga Khan Award-winning Tuwaiq Palace, an architectural masterpiece inspired by Saudi Arabia’s iconic forts, tents and oasis landscape. Across its palaces, Boutique Group is dedicated to designing bespoke modern luxury offerings rooted in a strong sense of place, backed by strong partnerships and an authentic representation of Saudi’s vast heritage. “This year’s ATM theme explores gateways. This is particularly poignant for Boutique Group, because our properties are in essence a gateway to a new model of hospitality, and a more sustainable future. Inspired by Saudi Arabi’s rich heritage and powered by its talent, we are creating a gateway to a more resilient and diversified economy,” said Mark De Cocinis, Chief Executive Officer at Boutique Group. “We are also delighted to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with luxury concierge provider, ALTANFEETHI, and look forward to exploring more ways to collaborate on this remarkable new model of Saudi hospitality,” …

The Jamaica Tourist Board has ambitious tourism plans, focused on expanding its reach in the GCC market. Recognizing the growing interest in Caribbean travel among GCC residents, the JTB is actively investing in targeted developing and growing the market to increase visitation figures. Travelers from the GCC can easily reach Jamaica through convenient flight connections via major airlines linking through the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Canada. This connectivity provides seamless travel options for citizens and residents of the GCC looking to experience the beauty and culture of Jamaica. The residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are renowned as some of the most well-traveled individuals globally, constantly seeking new destinations and experiences fueled by their healthy disposable income. Their adventurous spirit and eagerness to explore make them ideal candidates to appreciate Jamaica’s allure. Passengers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have several airline choices for flights to its main airports in Montego Bay and Kingston. Emirates, Etihad Airways, British Airways, and Air Canada offer routes with convenient connections. Qatar Airways also provides suitable connections to major US airports such as New York, Miami, and Chicago, offering additional options for travelers from the GCC region. Other GCC countries can access Jamaica via connections through the UAE, enhancing accessibility to the island. “As part of our strategic vision, the Jamaica Tourist Board is committed to investing in the GCC market and enhancing awareness of Jamaica’s attractions among travelers in this region,” said Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism of Jamaica. “We believe there is immense potential for increased visitation from the GCC.” “Jamaica is an ideal destination for citizens and residents of the GCC countries seeking a …

Bahwan Travel Agencies Oman, and Sabre Corporation announced the renewal of their strategic technology agreement at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. This renewal marks a significant milestone in the continued collaboration between the two companies, further solidifying their commitment to leveraging latest technology to drive business growth in Oman and the wider region. Under this renewed agreement, Bahwan Travel Agencies will continue to access Sabre’s portfolio of innovative technology, including its intelligent platform Sabre Red 360. This access enables Bahwan Travel Agencies to harness more data and content, providing clients with an expanded choice from over 400 airlines, 1.6 million lodging options, and numerous tour operators, rail, car, and cruise providers. The extensive marketplace empowers Bahwan Travel Agencies to curate and offer personalized travel packages from suppliers around the globe, significantly enhancing the overall travel experience for its customers. “The agreement renewal with Sabre endorses the robustness of our enduring partnership,” stated Sheikha Amal Suhail Bahwan, Vice Chairperson, Suhail Bahwan Group. “As a pioneer in the travel industry with 50 year’s presence in Oman, we ensure our travel business is empowered by latest technology, innovation and enhanced customer experience. Choosing Sabre as our technology partner is not only a strategic decision but also a logical choice to facilitate the growth of our business, enhance operational efficiency, and consistently add significant value for our customers.” Additionally, Bahwan Travel Agencies will deploy Sabre Automation Hub, Sabre APIs, Automated Exchanges and Refunds, and the Sabre E Ticket Report. These advanced technologies will empower Bahwan Travel Agencies to enhance its online presence, differentiate offerings, and provide customers with a more personalized and seamless travel shopping experience. “Bahwan Travel Agencies commitment to a strong and enduring …

Witnessing a 15% rise in visitors as compared to last year, and the thoughtful theme, ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, Regency Holidays had the opportunity to engage a larger audience of tech-driven tour operators from across the world to present existing products on offer and to tailor them per needs and requirements of the audiences. Representing Qatar and its wide range of tourism-driven products exuding luxurious experiences all around, Regency Holidays, Qatar’s foremost destination management company (DMC) participated in the recently concluded Arabian Travel Mart 2024 held in Dubai World Trade Centre. Given the scale of the event, Regency Holidays through its standalone stall, had the opportunity to showcase its comprehensive collection of luxury travel services through Qatar. During the 4 days, Regency showcased its large network of partner luxury hotels & resorts; breathtaking excursions, attractions like – Inland Sea, Katara Cultural Village, Lusail, etc.; shopping trails and city tours; premium ground transport fleet; and much more that one can experience in Qatar. With a profound design and displaying vibrant immersive experiences across Qatar, Regency Holidays attracted many eyeballs which led to rising footfall to its stall. The company is confident about massive conversions of its thoughtfully tailored travel products into realization on the back of a large number of visitors, meaningful networking, and discussions on upcoming travel trends that were witnessed at the event. Speaking about the participation in ATM 2024, Manoj Kumar Tiwari, General Manager, Regency Holidays, said, “The ATM 2024 saw a spectacular success this year with the highest-ever recorded footfall of around 46,000 travel sector professionals from across the world. We are delighted to have showcased our existing and upcoming signature products in Qatar to …

Travelers from the GCC can easily reach Jamaica through convenient flight connections via major airlines linking through the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Canada. This connectivity provides seamless travel options for citizens and residents of the GCC looking to experience the beauty and culture of Jamaica. The residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are renowned as some of the most well-traveled individuals globally, constantly seeking new destinations and experiences fueled by their healthy disposable income. Their adventurous spirit and eagerness to explore make them ideal candidates to appreciate Jamaica’s allure. Passengers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have several airline choices for flights to its main airports in Montego Bay and Kingston. Emirates, Etihad Airways, British Airways, and Air Canada offer routes with convenient connections. Qatar Airways also provides suitable connections to major US airports such as New York, Miami, and Chicago, offering additional options for travelers from the GCC region. Other GCC countries can access Jamaica via connections through the UAE, enhancing accessibility to the island. The Jamaica Tourist Board has ambitious tourism plans, focused on expanding its reach in the GCC market. Recognizing the growing interest in Caribbean travel among GCC residents, the JTB is actively investing in targeted developing and growing the market to increase visitation figures. “As part of our strategic vision, the Jamaica Tourist Board is committed to investing in the GCC market and enhancing awareness of Jamaica’s attractions among travelers in this region,” said Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism of Jamaica. “We believe there is immense potential for increased visitation from the GCC.” “Jamaica is an ideal destination for citizens and residents of the GCC countries seeking a …

Air Cairo announced Almosafer as their exclusive general sales agent (GSA) in Saudi Arabia. This highlights the importance of KSA as a primary market for Air Cairo, as both parties will work together to meet the needs of travellers from the Kingdom. Air Cairo selected Almosafer for its strong market presence and esteemed reputation in Saudi Arabia. Almosafer will play a key role in boosting Air Cairo’s sales across the Kingdom, by leveraging its extensive customer base to offer promotional deals and on-ground activities, while utilizing the strength of Almosafer’s businesses, such as “Discover Saudi,” its destination management company, and “Mawasim,” its Hajj & Umrah tour operator. Air Cairo offers greater connectivity and convenience through its fleet of well-maintained aircrafts. The airline has been expanding its network since its inception in 2003. With the recent addition of a more modern Airbus fleet, the airline reinforces its dedication to providing world-class comfort and convenience. As a leading airline in the region, it is focused on offering safe travel and ensuring greater connectivity and accessibility to its valued passengers. Pilot Ahmed Shannan, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Air Cairo Airlines, said about the partnership “We are delighted to collaborate with Almosafer to offer our services to a broad spectrum of travelers from Saudi Arabia and beyond. We are confident that Almosafer’s expertise and credibility in the region will enable us to broaden our reach and offer cost-effective travel options to all.” Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO of Almosafer, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “We are excited to welcome Air Cairo among our esteemed partners. We are confident that this collaboration will enhance the travel sector in the region and offer greater …

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and dnata Travel Group signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement with the aim of enhancing tourism to Thailand. The partnership seeks to leverage dnata’s extensive global network, particularly in the GCC region, to drive increased tourist arrivals from the Middle East to Thailand. By focusing on key niche markets and promoting quality leisure destinations within the kingdom, both TAT and dnata aim to enhance Thailand’s appeal and attract discerning travelers. Under the Strategic Partnership Agreement, TAT and dnata will collaborate on a series of joint promotions tailored to elevate Thailand’s tourism profile across the GCC countries, including the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. These promotions will target niche tourism segments such as sports, luxury, honeymoon, and wellness, offering tailored experiences to travelers seeking unique and memorable vacations. The agreement was signed by Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and Mr. John Bevan, CEO of the dnata Travel Group, at a ceremony held at the Thailand Pavilion, ATM 2024. Also present were Mr. Rashid Al Awadhi, Senior Vice President – Middle East and India at the dnata Travel Group, Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing, and Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, along with other officials from both organizations. Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, stated, “The Tourism Authority of Thailand is pleased to collaborate with the dnata Travel Group. Through this agreement, our goal is to collectively implement the most effective strategies and practices to expand Thailand’s marketing presence and establish it as a ‘Quality Leisure Destination.’ This initiative emphasizes enhancing Thailand’s reputation as a unique leisure destination that offers unparalleled quality and value. We …

More than 46,000 industry professionals from over 160 countries – including 33,500 visitors – attended the 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which concluded on 9th May 2024. This represents a 15% year-on-year increase in attendees compared to ATM’s landmark 30th edition, setting a new record for the show and demonstrating the strength, resilience and momentum of the global travel and tourism sector. In line with ATM 2024’s theme, ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, over 2,600 exhibitors gathered at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) to explore the drivers behind industry growth and identify future opportunities within the global tourism sector. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “My colleagues and I are delighted that so many industry professionals from around the world were able to join us in Dubai to explore how innovation and entrepreneurship are shaping a more efficient, profitable and sustainable tourism sector for future generations. We are thrilled to have set a new show record, underscoring our position as the travel and tourism exhibition of choice as we continue to drive global growth within the industry.” ATM 2024 welcomed His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, who chaired a meeting of The Executive Council during the show. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan approved a series of major transport and tourism-related projects in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This year’s opening session saw policymakers from across the region explain how Gulf nations are working together to streamline the GCC’s tourism offering. The panel …

Mohamed Al Rais Executive Director Al Rais Travel Group speaking with Travel TV Middle East shared that this year with summer and Eid holidays setting in, Al Rais will be promoting Latin America for the travellers from the UAE. Key outbound destinations booked by travelers from the UAE this summer will reflect a blend of cultural exploration, iconic landmarks, and diverse experiences. Paris, London, Barcelona, Rome, and Istanbul consistently rank among favorites, additionally, destinations like Japan and South Korea attract UAE travelers with their unique blend of traditional heritage and modern innovations. Australia and New Zealand emerge as sought-after destinations for UAE travelers seeking outdoor adventures and natural wonders. At this year’s ATM, we’re excited to spotlight the cutting-edge features and capabilities of our travel technology solutions, including booking platforms, mobile apps, analytics tools, and more. By demonstrating how our technology streamlines processes, enhances customer experiences, and fuels business growth, we aim to capture the attention of tech-savvy attendees and decision-makers seeking innovative solutions. In addition, we’ll emphasize the value of our GSA representation services for airlines, highlighting our market expertise, extensive distribution network, sales optimization strategies, and cost efficiencies.

The German National Tourist Office (GNTO), along with 15 co-exhibitors representing cities, airports, and hotels, have successfully concluded another year at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), underscoring Germany’s commitment to the Middle East’s largest travel and tourism exhibition. The annual gathering has proven crucial in reinforcing Germany’s ties with the GCC region, showcasing its diverse tourism offerings and sustainable travel initiatives. The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) serves as a cornerstone for the GNTO’s strategic outreach within the GCC region, connecting with travel professionals and decision-makers across the UAE and broader GCC. It provides a platform to foster valuable partnerships and allowing for engagement with potential Gulf visitors. Additionally, ATM offers invaluable insights into the region’s latest travel trends and preferences, enabling GNTO to tailor its marketing strategies effectively. During the four-day event, the GNTO showcased innovative marketing strategies focused on sustainability in the tourism sector. The GNTO’s engagement with partners and stakeholders underscored its commitment to sustainable practices, aligning with Germany’s rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes to position the country as a prime destination for eco-conscious travellers seeking meaningful experiences. The significance of the GCC market to the German tourism sector was emphasised at the ATM, highlighting its role as one of the top three overseas source markets and its rapid recovery post-pandemic. Early 2024 statistics demonstrate the market’s resilience, with GCC travellers recording 128,745 overnight stays in Germany during the first two months alone. The robust growth trajectory underscores Germany’s enduring appeal as a preferred destination for GCC tourists. Another highlight of the event was the presentation of the Sustainable Tourism Journalist Award, recognising journalists whose work highlights the crucial connections between tourism and sustainability. A panel of …