Tag Archives: Dnata

dnata Travel Management is partnering with International SOS to introduce its pioneering duty of care services to its hundreds of clients across the region. The ‘Travel Risk Management Program’ by International SOS is now available as an add-on service to dnata Travel Management’s regional client base. Organisations can benefit from International SOS’ comprehensive travel risk management programs, from assessing processes for travel risk management to mitigating any risks associated with travel. Companies will also have access to its 24/7 global assistance, medical and security evacuations, intelligence and monitoring tools, location-based alerts, and much more. Since 2019, dnata Travel Management surveys have consistently indicated that employee wellbeing and engagement are top priorities for corporate clients in the Middle East. Other priorities included savings and cost control, sustainability, and expense management. Savio Vaz, Vice President Government and Corporate Travel at the dnata Travel Group, commented: “Our service requirements as a Travel Management Company (TMC) have grown significantly. The post-pandemic reopening of more countries and a growing preference for in-person meetings has fuelled a growth in corporate travel. Heads of businesses travelling across the region and beyond are ensuring now more than ever that employee wellbeing, engagement, and duty of care remain at the top of the agenda. We continue to evolve our offering to meet the needs of our corporate traveller base.” Sebastien Bedu, General Manager Middle East at International SOS, added: “We are delighted to partner with dnata Travel Management and extend our robust preventive programmes to its corporate travel clients across the Middle East. Post-pandemic, the health and wellbeing of employees has become a business imperative and a top priority for the leadership agenda with a growing awareness around Duty …

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 …

Minor Hotels announced an enhanced strategic partnership with dnata Travel Group to elevate the booking and in-destination experience for global travellers. The long-term agreement is aimed at advancing the travel experience through flexibility, exclusive packages, and savings for leisure and corporate customers, whilst driving the mutual global growth plans for both companies. Minor Hotels is expanding rapidly, aiming to add more than 200 hotels to its global portfolio by the end of 2026. In partnership, dnata will support Minor Hotels in the launch of new hotel and resort openings, through dual-branded business opportunities. The strategic partnership will cover dynamic distribution for leisure and corporate travellers, wholesale distribution for the travel trade, destination management company (DMC) integration to elevate the travel and in-resort experience, and an aligned sustainability programme and initiatives. Leisure travel Minor Hotels is offering dynamic rates to dnata Travel Group brands in all markets in which the Emirates Group operates. Leisure travellers will have access to all direct rate types from every brand under the Minor Hotels portfolio including Anantara Hotels & Resorts; Tivoli Hotels & Resorts; Avani Hotels & Resorts; NH Hotels & Resorts; NH Collection Hotels & Resorts; nhow Hotels; Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites; and the Elewana Collection. Travel agencies under the dnata portfolio will create preferred travel packages inclusive of Minor Hotels stays for select destinations. Minor Hotels is also integrating with dnata Travel Group DMC businesses – Arabian Adventures and Destination Asia – and its leisure, MICE, cruise, and ancillary sectors. This will increase traveller flexibility in booking dynamic packages, and in-destination experiences, with plans to improve direct access to booking an enhanced range of world-class activities and travel extras in resort. Corporate …

dnata has partnered with Mauritius Tourism as it aims to attract more travellers from the UAE in 2024. Mauritius Tourism has appointed dnata Representation Services as its sales, marketing, and PR representative in the UAE, to provide localised booking support and share top rates, latest news, itineraries and more from the destination with travellers across the country. The collaboration will focus on showcasing trending experiences for 2024, including the island’s diverse proposition beyond its famous shorelines. In recent years, Mauritius has become an increasingly popular destination among UAE-based travellers. With an impressive 62% increase in travellers from the UAE to the country recorded by Mauritius Tourism between 2015 and 2023, passenger arrivals continue to show steady growth in 2024. Rakhi Purohit, Head of Representation Services at dnata, commented: “Mauritius is a location known for its world-class beaches, but it offers much more for travellers seeking extraordinary adventures. From hiking in National Parks to enjoying diverse culinary experiences, some of the world’s most unique natural landscapes and picture-perfect golf courses – there’s something for everyone. We look forward to bringing the island’s host of authentic and meaningful experiences closer to the UAE’s avid traveller base in 2024.” Popular locations across the island for UAE travellers include the beaches of Flic en Flac, Tamarin and Le Morne on its West and South West Coast, where the country witnesses its most sunshine, and offers some of its most impressive natural landscapes, luxury resorts, dining and entertainment options. Donald Payen, Chairman of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, added: “Mauritius may be best known for its stunning, tropical landscapes including its exceptional beaches and azure waters, but a key element we want to showcase to …

dnata has partnered with Malaysia-based Batik Air, formerly known as Malindo Air, to bolster the airline’s newly launched route between Dubai and Kuala Lumpur. Batik Air began operating four weekly services from Dubai to Malaysia’s capital city in November 2023. This marked the airline’s second route launch in the Middle East this year, following its successful introduction of flights between Jeddah (KSA) and Kuala Lumpur in August. dnata Representation Services will act as the airline’s general sales agent (GSA) in the UAE, providing a comprehensive range of travel services and local infrastructure for sales, marketing, and distribution support. Drawing interest from UAE-based travellers, Batik Air has introduced attractive fares starting at AED 1,299 for Economy Class and AED 3,499 for Business Class return flights. Simon Woodford, Vice President Global Air Services at dnata Travel Group, commented: “The reopening of Asia has sparked a rising trend in travel from the UAE, with a growing number of people seeking to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of the continent. In Malaysia, cosmopolitan Kuala Lumpur and the beautiful coastlines beyond – including Langkawi – are increasingly popular. We are delighted to support Batik Air locally, as it opens more options for travel between the UAE and Malaysia.” Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, Group Strategy Director of Batik Air, added: “Malaysia is rapidly gaining recognition as a vibrant destination, known for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality, with a growing significance for business partnerships and cultural exchanges. With the launch of our direct flights from Dubai to Kuala Lumpur, travellers now have easier access to explore the country. Whether planning a leisurely getaway, a family vacation, or an important business trip, our affordable …

dnata is partnering with Virgin Atlantic to support the airline’s highly anticipated return to Dubai this winter. dnata Representation Services has been selected to provide a comprehensive range of services to the airline as its general sales agent (GSA) in the UAE. The partnership establishes UAE-based infrastructure for local sales, marketing and distribution support, providing a full range of travel services for Virgin customers flying to and from Dubai. dnata’s services will support the airline as it gears up to resume flights between London Heathrow (LHR) and Dubai International (DXB) this month. Flights are now available for customers to book, and will operate from 30 October 2023 through to March 2024 with a four-times weekly seasonal service. Simon Woodford, Vice President Global Air Services at dnata Travel Group, said: “dnata Representation Services previously served as Virgin Atlantic’s GSA in the UAE, and we are delighted to be working with this dynamic airline as it makes its exciting return to Dubai. Our experienced team will work hard to support Virgin Atlantic in achieving its business objectives and growth plans, as the UAE continues to prove a top destination of choice for UK travellers.” Liezl Gericke, Head of International at Virgin Atlantic, commented: “We’ve long wanted to return to Dubai when the time was right, and we know our customers will be over the moon with the reintroduction of this popular route. Nothing sets our hearts soaring like a new destination or reintroducing an old favourite. We look forward to welcoming our customers back on board, whether travelling for business or leisure or heading back to the United Kingdom to reconnect with friends and family.” The new service is set to offer …

Sabre Corporation has signed a multi-year agreement with dnata Travel Group. The partnership will see Sabre support the travel company’s strategic goals as its preferred technology partner.  Sabre and the dnata Travel Group already share a long-term commitment to innovation through travel technology, and the new deal will represent an extended, broader relationship between the two companies in the Middle East. Additionally, under this agreement, the dnata Travel Group’s Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Partner Network will continue to access Sabre’s portfolio of innovative technology and its intelligent platform Sabre Red 360, allowing it to harness more data, content, and offer clients more choice from more than 400 airlines, 1.6 million lodging options, and hundreds of tour operators, rail, car and cruise providers. “With evolving customer expectations and complex market dynamics, Sabre has been our partner of choice for over 12 years,” said Simon Woodford, VP Global Air Services, dnata Travel Group. “Sabre’s deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities offered by the dynamic global travel eco-system enable us to identify and embrace new technology to strengthen our position, improve efficiency and respond to evolving customer expectations with personalized experiences. This partnership will lead to accelerated innovation, operational simplification and enhanced digital user experience.” For many years, Sabre has provided a broad portfolio of technology and solutions to dnata Travel Group brands in the Middle East as well as key markets in Europe. This strategic agreement builds upon that history with new initiatives that will help expand dnata’s business and reinforces Sabre’s role as a key distribution partner. “We are excited to continue our successful collaboration with the dnata Travel Group,” said Andy Finkelstein, senior vice president – Global Agency Sales …

Advancing its sustainability efforts, Emirates and dnata have joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), a voluntary global initiative that promotes responsible business practices and the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, said: “In the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, we are pleased to join the United Nations Global Compact, which is another step forward in the Emirates Group’s efforts to embed sustainable and responsible business practices across our operations. “Emirates and dnata have always taken a balanced approach to growth. Reflecting Dubai and the UAE’s long-term vision, we are tireless in our pursuit of excellence and progress, and we embrace the values of tolerance and respect. We will continue to invest in technologies, people, and partnerships to improve our business performance, expand our positive impact on the communities we serve, and reduce our environmental impact,” he added. As participants of the UNGC, Emirates and dnata commit to implementing the Global Compact’s Ten Principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption, and to report on its progress on these efforts annually. The Group will benefit from access to the UNGC’s extensive tools and resources to engage with its employees across the globe and improve their learning and training in Sustainability. The Emirates Group’s ongoing environmental initiatives focus on 3 areas: emissions reduction, responsible consumption and the preservation of wildlife and habitats. In June 2022, dnata pledged US$100 million to be invested over 2 years to enhance environmental efficiency in its operations. In January, Emirates successfully operated a milestone demonstration flight using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in one engine, supporting collective industry …

dnata continues to invest in innovative initiatives, equipment, and training to enhance the travel experience of People of Determination, and lead the aviation industry in the special handling of passengers. dnata’s Special Handling unit offers point-to-point assistance to People of Determination, supporting 1.3 million passengers annually throughout their airport journey across DXB’s three terminals. All 1,300 customer-oriented staff at dnata receive comprehensive training prior to joining operations. Training at dnata focuses on customer service, and for employees to understand the unique needs of People of Determination. It also tackles the handling of special equipment such as the three types of adult wheelchairs provided by dnata: a conventional wheelchair; a STAXI wheelchair which incorporates a baggage stowage area below the chair; and a cabin wheelchair used for passengers with special needs who require assistance to and from the aircraft seat, and which is specially designed to fit in the aisle of an aircraft. dnata’s equipment for passengers with special needs are designed for differing levels of needs. Based on the feedback from customers during the AccessAbility Expo in Dubai, the company’s most recent initiatives include the procurement of wheelchairs specially designed for children. To be introduced later this year, these new wheelchairs will offer a better fit for children and make young travellers feel more safe and comfortable. The company’s fleet also includes medical high-loaders to help those with mobility issues access aircraft parked at remote stands. dnata also possesses a ProMove Sling, an innovative moving and handling device for passengers with limited mobility. The light and portable sling’s strategically placed handles make lifting a passenger from their aircraft seat to the cabin wheelchair a dignified process without service staff having …

dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, celebrated the launch of its operations at Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) with its partners Emirates Leisure Retail and SEGAP, a joint venture between airport infrastructure and operations specialists Egis, and private equity fund manager AIIM (African Infrastructure Investment Managers). The three companies will work closely together to deliver world-class services for airlines and passengers at the newly-built international terminal (T3) of ZNZ. The partnership is expected to significantly contribute to the government’s target of boosting its trade and tourism sectors. The investment of dnata, Emirates Leisure Retail and SEGAP represents over USD 10 million and, to date, has created some 500 local jobs with the companies. dnata will provide its globally renowned, quality ground, passenger and cargo handling services to airline customers at ZNZ, ensuring safe and timely operations of flights and an excellent travel experience for passengers. In addition, dnata launched meet & greet and lounge services through its airport hospitality brand, marhaba, to help passengers further enhance their experience and enjoy a smooth airport journey from check-in to boarding. Emirates Leisure Retail has partnered with MMI as master concessionaire for all food and beverage, duty free and commercial outlets at T3. In collaboration with Eight Inc, the companies have created an innovative and immersive travel experience, ZOMA, designed to create a sense of place and extend the holiday feeling for passengers. In the ZOMA Zones each store is inspired by the scents, feelings, and flavours of the island. In addition to these outlets, ELR and MMI carefully selected and curated the best retailers from the island to spotlight some of the best that Zanzibar offers. SEGAP …