Category Archives: Agents

Building on Singapore’s visa-free travel programme, the tripartite highlights the city’s unique proposition as a green metropolis where luxury retail, world-class attractions and trendy lifestyle entertainment offerings create extraordinary experiences for Saudi visitors Almosafer strengthened its strategic partnership with Singapore Tourism Board and Changi Airport Group through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Dubai. The agreement builds on the successful joint marketing campaign in Saudi Arabia launched last year. The enhanced collaboration will feature an integrated marketing campaign showcasing Singapore’s distinctive appeal through a prominent Saudi influencer. Leveraging Almosafer’s extensive regional network and omnichannel presence, the campaign will highlight Singapore’s unique experiences tailored for Saudi visitors. Singapore’s world-renowned landmarks, from the architectural marvel of Marina Bay Sands to the spectacular wildlife sanctuaries in the Mandai Wildlife Parks and the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, promise Saudi visitors an extraordinary urban escape where city sophistication meets natural wonder. The destination’s extensive network of halal-friendly amenities ensures a welcoming experience for Saudi guests. The city-state’s year-round calendar of signature events adds another dimension to its appeal. Visitors can experience the high-octane thrills of the Singapore Grand Prix, complete with world-class entertainment and concerts, immerse themselves in cultural celebrations like the vibrant Deepavali festivities in Little India, or enjoy the enchanting Christmas lights along the prestigious Orchard Road shopping belt. As the first stop of a memorable journey to Singapore, Changi Airport offers travellers a warm and inspiring welcome, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience. Renowned for its seamless blend of innovation and hospitality, Changi delights passengers with world-class attractions, including the iconic Jewel Changi Airport where visitors can step right up to the breathtaking HSBC Jewel Rain Vortex, immerse in …

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and Accor announced the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) marking a strategic partnership that will build on Saudi’s emergence as a global tourism powerhouse. This collaboration aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals, aiming to enhance international demand, grow brand visibility, and drive hotel bookings and loyalty across the country’s expanding hospitality landscape. The agreement strengthens Accor’s commitment to Saudi, creating significant commercial opportunities, expanding its reach, and elevating guest experiences across its portfolio. With a network of over 45 operating hotels — representing more than 17,000 rooms across 15 brands — and 44 properties in the pipeline set to add a further 11,000 rooms, Accor is strongly positioned to contribute to Saudi’s bold tourism ambitions and rising global appeal. Under the MOU, Accor and STA will co-create targeted marketing campaigns across key international markets, promote Saudi through digital platforms — including the dedicated Makkah Madinah Portal — and deliver curated guest experiences that inspire loyalty and drive visitation. The partnership will also drive traffic to ALL.com, strengthen engagement with the ALL – Accor Live Limitless loyalty programme, and roll out exclusive new experiences tailored to Saudi‘s diverse destinations. Duncan O’Rourke, Accor’s Chief Executive Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy brands for Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific said, “Accor’s strategic partnership with the Saudi Tourism Authority reinforces our long-standing presence in the country and our shared commitment to driving tourism growth. Together, we will co-create impactful guest experiences, elevate service offerings, and bring the beauty and diversity of Saudi to a global audience. The opportunity to help shape the Saudi’s tourism landscape from the ground up makes this the ideal time for strategic alignment …

Visit Qatar signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Satguru Travel to position Qatar as a preferred destination for African travellers and expand its presence across the continent. The MoU was signed by  Saleh Al Nisf, Middle East and Africa Senior Manager- International Markets, Visit Qatar, and Prakash Lalchandani, Vice President of Satguru Travel Group. Under the agreement, Visit Qatar and Satguru Travel will collaborate on the development of integrated, multi-channel marketing campaigns, leveraging Satguru’s extensive regional network, whilst also sharing market insights to better target and attract African visitors.

Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) announced that Sharjah attracted approximately 1.6 million hotel guests in 2024, reflecting an 11% increase compared to 2023. This growth highlights the continuous development of the tourism sector in Sharjah. The announcement was made during a press conference held today with the participation of SCTDA alongside more than 25 government and private entities at the “Sharjah Pavilion” during Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which runs from April 28 to May 1 at Dubai World Trade Centre. The authority revealed key statistics for Sharjah’s tourism sector in 2024, noting that Russian guests ranked first with over 270,000 guests, representing an 18% increase compared to 2023. Indian guests came second with over 170,000 guests, marking a 6% rise compared to 2023. European guests saw a 16% increase compared to 2023, reaching over 100,000 guests, while Chinese guests surged to over 60,000 guests, an exceptional increase of 828% compared to 2023. Among Arab countries, Oman topped the list of hotel guests in Sharjah, accounting for 6% of total guests in 2024, followed by Saudi Arabia at 5%, Egypt at 4%, and Syria and Iraq at 3% each. His Excellency Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, highlighted the latest developments from the authority, including the official launch of Sharjah’s new tourism brand campaign “Visit Sharjah.” The campaign focuses on showcasing Sharjah’s diverse tourist destinations, blending heritage, adventure, natural beauty, and modern experiences. It emphasizes the emirate’s ability to offer varied experiences catering to different types of travellers who are seeking adventure, tranquillity, family entertainment, or cultural immersion. The campaign also spotlights major events such as the Sharjah Light Festival and other annual highlights that create memorable moments …

As part of its strategic expansion plan to strengthen inbound tourism to the UAE, Al Rais Travel announced the appointment of a Representative Office in India. This initiative aims to significantly increase the number of Indian visitors to Dubai and the UAE. The announcement comes in conjunction with Al Rais Travel’s participation at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, reaffirming its commitment to expanding its global network and building new partnerships with travel agencies and tour operators across India, one of the UAE’s key source markets. Commenting on the expansion, Mohamed Jassim Al Rais, Executive Director of Al Rais Travel and Prem Sagar, General Manager, said: “Establishing a Representative Office in India is a strategic move to enhance our presence in one of the most vital tourism markets for Dubai and the UAE. We aim to forge strong partnerships with the Indian travel trade and offer tailored, high-quality travel solutions that meet the expectations of Indian travelers and support the growing momentum of travel between our two nations.” India remains one of the largest source markets for inbound tourism to the UAE, driven by deep-rooted cultural, economic, and tourism ties. Through the new office, Al Rais Travel will provide direct support to travel agents and tour operators across India, while launching innovative promotional campaigns and creating bespoke travel packages designed specifically for the Indian market.

Healthtrip announced a strategic partnership with Satguru Travel Group aimed at expanding inbound medical tourism from Pan-African countries to leading healthcare providers in the UAE, India, Turkey, Germany and Saudi Arabia. Africa is a growing source market for hospitals in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Germany and India, offering advanced treatments, proximity, shorter wait times, and cost-effectiveness—making it an ideal choice for patients seeking high-quality care. “Healthtrip’s mission is to connect patients with trusted healthcare providers globally,” said Danish Ahmed, CEO and founder of Healthtrip. “Our partnership with the Satguru Group marks a significant step in creating a connected, accessible health travel ecosystem for African patients. This partnership brings together Healthtrip’s digital-first health travel solutions with Satguru’s trusted on-the-ground travel support, creating a seamless experience for patients across borders.” Mr. Anil Chandirani, Chairman of Satguru Travel Group, stated, “As a home-grown multiplatform travel group with a presence in 80+ countries, we have been addressing travel needs since our inception in 1989. Combined with Healthtrip’s tech-powered platform, this partnership brings added value to African health travelers seeking trusted medical treatments, with a strong track record of success in the Middle East, India, and the United Kingdom. Our partnership offers a seamless experience to patients across their treatment and travel needs.” The partnership supports broader regional goals of positioning the UAE, Turkey, Germany, India, and Saudi Arabia as leading destination markets and global hubs for medical and wellness tourism. Healthtrip and Satguru Travel Group will jointly offer integrated service packages for African patients seeking care across specialties – from health screening to advanced procedures – aiming to expand their reach across the region. The alliance also represents a key milestone in Healthtrip’s …

Sharjah is preparing to participate in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, scheduled to take place from 28 April to 1 May 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). Sharjah pavilion, under the auspices of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), will include representatives from more than 25 entities across the public and private sectors. The participation aims to highlight Sharjah’s latest tourism, cultural, and developmental initiatives while showcasing variety experiences that Emirates of Sharjah has to offer its guest and tourists which reinforce the emirate’s position as a leading destination on both the regional and global tourism map. This event will bring together experts, thought leaders, and decision-makers in the fields of tourism, travel, hospitality, and hotel establishments from around the world to explore the impact that this field has on the leisure and business travel sectors, focusing on how it can streamline operations and enhance customer experiences for travellers, hotel guests, and other. This year’s edition of the exhibition is held under the theme ‘Global Travel: Shaping the Future of Tourism through Enhanced Connectivity’, making it an ideal platform for exchanging expertise and exploring best practices in one of the most dynamic sectors, while contributing to both global and national economic growth. The Emirate of Sharjah’s participation at the event is focused on presenting its current and future tourism plans and innovative initiatives that promote the sector’s development. It will also introduce new projects, variety of accommodation and staycation options, thrilling adventures, and integrated tourism activities, along with a showcase of the year-round calendar of key events designed to enhance the guests and tourist experience and strengthen the sustainability of the emirate’s tourism offerings. The …

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) participating at the Arabian Travel Market 2025 will be focusing on promoting sustainable tourism to the GCC travellers. Sustainable tourism growth is a key component of Jamaica’s Vision 2023 development plan.  Recognizing the GCC as having one of the most well-travelled globetrotters, fueled by its spending power and interest in unique destinations, keeps JTBs committed to its goal of positioning the country as a major consideration for travel amongst the nationals and residents of the GCC countries. Reaching out to new regions aims to enhance its global tourism footprint and economic resilience. Its continued presence in the region’s premier travel and trade event demonstrates the recognition of GCCs role in Jamaica’s international tourism growth strategy. In a collaborative push to promote the island, Tourism Minister Hon. Edmund Bartlett will be joined by Director of Tourism Donovan White, together with Jamaica’s top suppliers in the hospitality and leisure sectors at the JTB stand, ready to network with travel and media professionals from across the GCC. Diversifying tourism markets and promoting sustainable growth is a key component of Jamaica’s Vision 2023 development plan. Reaching out to new regions aims to enhance its global tourism footprint and economic resilience. Recognizing the GCC as having one of the most well-travelled globetrotters, fueled by its spending power and interest in unique destinations, keeps JTBs committed to its goal of positioning the country as a major consideration for travel amongst the nationals and residents of the GCC countries. “Our ongoing participation in ATM reflects our dedication to fostering relationships within the GCC market,” stated Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism. “We are confident that Jamaica’s unique blend of natural beauty …

Four of the strongest European countries came together today as they opened the travel summit with 150 buyers who flew in from within GCC, Levant and India for the first ‘Discover Europe Travel Summit meets Marhaba 2025’. Germany, Spain, France and Austria organised the event with partners from each destination. The event will b e held across two days today and tomorrow. They included destinations, hotels, DMCs, attractions, retail outlets etc. A total of 5,720 pre-scheduled meetings are planned across the two-day event. Germany has consistently attracted GCC travellers with its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and modern urban experiences. The country’s emphasis on family-friendly attractions and seamless travel infrastructure makes it a preferred destination for both leisure and business travellers from the region. Spain has emerged as a favoured destination for GCC tourists, drawn by its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and culinary delights. The country’s diverse regions offer unique experiences, from Madrid’s bustling streets to Barcelona’s coastal beauty. France continues to enchant GCC travellers with its iconic landmarks, luxury shopping, and gastronomic experiences. The country’s commitment to offering tailored services has enhanced its appeal among discerning visitors from the region. Austria’s breathtaking alpine landscapes, serene lakes, and charming cities have seen growing interest from GCC travellers. The country’s offerings range from winter sports to summer festivals, catering to diverse preferences and providing year-round appeal.  

Qashio partnered with Visa to host an exclusive event bringing together the UAE’s top travel decision-makers for a dynamic exchange of insights and industry trends. The event welcomed senior executives from across the regional travel ecosystem, including online travel agencies, destination management companies, and leading luxury hospitality brands. Guests heard keynote speeches from Brendan Noonan, former senior executive at Emirates and Qatar Airways, who emphasised the urgent need for operational agility and secure financial flows in aviation. Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, Visa’s SVP and Group Country Manager for GCC, spoke about Visa’s role in building frictionless, secure digital payment infrastructure alongside partners such as Qashio. A lively panel discussion on “Technology’s role in the evolution of the travel industry” took place, with esteemed guest speakers included Aidan Dempsey, General Manager of the Ritz-Carlton RAK, Claudia Esposito, Chief Commercial Officer of Qashio, and Ganes RK, Head of Visa Commercial Solutions for GCC, who explored how digital payments, automation, and customer-centric innovations are reshaping travel operations and experiences across the country. Addressing the event’s impact, Armin Moradi, CEO of Qashio, said: “The UAE’s travel sector is evolving rapidly alongside the nation’s wider digital transformation, and such events show just how important it is to rethink spend management through a modern, automated lens. Businesses today need agile, transparent financial systems that support their growth and resilience. Our partnership with Visa, whose international reputation for secure, scalable payment infrastructure lends strong validation to our innovations, is helping the industry embrace the future with confidence. We are proud to contribute to the UAE’s broader vision of a cashless, technology-driven economy, while empowering companies to operate more efficiently and stay ahead in a highly competitive landscape.” Salima …