According to Wego data, international flight bookings from the UAE for travel in February have surpassed the numbers during the same period last year by 70.1%. The consecutive occurrence of Ramadan, Eid al Fitr, and spring break in 2024 is anticipated to encourage the same YoY leap in bookings for trips scheduled in the coming months. Wego revealed the top travel trends for Ramadan 2024 in the UAE. Wego has noted a spike in demand for flight and hotel reservations from the UAE in the lead up to the festive season. As we enter the holy month of Ramadan, Wego data showed that airfares to some destinations may get even more expensive this year. The average airfare to the Philippines, a favored destination for UAE travelers, is now AED 1,331.93, compared to AED 895.56 in 2023. Meanwhile, YoY average prices for flights to the UK and Germany have risen by 23.88% and 60.42% respectively. Wego anticipates that ticket prices for popular destinations will continue to climb, especially with more families potentially planning getaways during the holidays. Surge in hotel occupancy and room prices Amidst a bustling month teeming with significant events like the Gulfood trade show, Dubai Duty Free tennis championships among others, Dubai has observed an uptick in hotel occupancy rates in February 2024, with bookings on Wego surpassing last year’s figures by 23.2%. Concurrently, the average Dubai hotel room rates have experienced a YoY surge of 20.3%. Dubai hotel occupancy and daily rates may still move in an upward trajectory through the next few months, as Wego’s data indicates that demands for staycations among UAE residents also typically grow during Ramadan weekends and Eid al Fitr holiday. High travel …
Read More »Wego and Bahrain tourism to promote the destination
Wego and the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority are partnering to promote Bahrain as a leading travel destination. This strategic partnership combines Wego’s cutting-edge travel technology with Bahrain’s abundant cultural heritage and diverse attractions, promising an unmatched experience for travelers worldwide. Wego, renowned for connecting millions of users to a wide array of travel options, is excited to join forces with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority to showcase the Kingdom’s unique attractions, historical landmarks, and warm hospitality. This collaboration signifies a shared commitment to enhancing Bahrain’s visibility on the global stage and driving tourism growth for the Kingdom. The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, recognizing Wego’s extensive reach and user-friendly platform as key assets to promote Bahrain’s beauty and charm. With its blend of modernity and tradition, Bahrain has much to offer, from vibrant markets and cultural festivals to historical sites and pristine beaches. “Wego is delighted to collaborate once again with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority to spotlight the incredible offerings of Bahrain,” said Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Business Officer of Wego. “Our platform is dedicated to inspiring and facilitating travel experiences, and we are eager to showcase Bahrain’s rich tapestry to our global audience. This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to promoting exceptional destinations and creating memorable journeys.” The co-marketing initiative will leverage Wego’s digital platform to feature dedicated sections highlighting Bahrain’s key attractions, travel tips, and exclusive promotions. The collaboration aims to position Bahrain as a top destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority is confident that this partnership will contribute to the Kingdom’s tourism goals and foster positive …
Read More »Wego and Hong Kong Tourism Board forge dynamic partnership to boost tourism
Wego announced a strategic partnership with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) with the goal of positioning Hong Kong as a leading global travel destination for GCC. Wego is eager to collaborate with HKTB to highlight Hong Kong’s distinct attractions, cultural richness, and modern allure. The Hong Kong Tourism Board eagerly welcomes this collaboration, recognizing Wego’s expansive reach and user-friendly platform as instrumental in highlighting the allure and distinctiveness of Hong Kong. From its seamless fusion of modernity and tradition to the plethora of experiences – be it the iconic skyscrapers and bustling markets or the serene landscapes and exquisite cuisine – Hong Kong captivates travelers with its diversity. In expressing his anticipation for the collaboration, Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Business Officer of Wego, commented, “Embarking on this exciting venture with the Hong Kong Tourism Board allows us to showcase the extraordinary offerings of this world-class destination. Wego’s commitment to inspiring and facilitating travel experiences aligns seamlessly with our goal of presenting Hong Kong’s diverse tapestry to a global audience. This partnership underscores our joint dedication to promoting exceptional destinations and curating unforgettable journeys.” Utilizing Wego’s digital platform, the co-marketing initiative will spotlight Hong Kong’s key attractions, provide insider travel tips. This collaboration aims to position Hong Kong as the ultimate destination for travelers in search of a harmonious blend of culture, innovation, and unparalleled experiences. Puneet Kumar, Director, South Asia and Middle East of Hong Kong Tourism Board said: “We are excited to partner with Wego Middle East in creatively presenting Hong Kong to all travel enthusiasts in the GCC. Hong Kong has become more accessible for GCC nationals with improved daily air connectivity and visa-free travel. We’re excited to …
Read More »Wego unveils WegoPro to revolutionize business travel and expense management across MENA
Wego launched WegoPro, a modern platform that simplifies business travel and expense management for companies globally. Formerly known as Travelstop, WegoPro will debut today in 7 key markets in the MENA region, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and Egypt. The rebranding follows Wego’s acquisition of Travelstop in September 2023, reinforcing Wego’s commitment to offer comprehensive travel solutions to businesses in the region. Market research firms predict that the global business travel market will be valued at over US$1.8 trillion by 2027 and will return to the pre-pandemic levels of US$1.4 trillion this year. A significant part of that growth is expected to come from markets in Asia and the MENA region. That growth, coupled with the increasing demand for more modern and innovative business travel solutions, represents a substantial opportunity for WegoPro in the region. “The Middle East is a very young population and most people in the workforce today have grown up with powerful travel apps and websites, like Wego, that have let them book their own personal travel,” said Ross Veitch, Wego CEO & Co-Founder. “In stark contrast in their professional lives they are often forced to book their business trips through cumbersome offline booking processes having to email back and forth with a corporate travel management company and then to go through a tedious approval process. After the trip expense reports then need to be filed in a process normally involving Excel, receipts and sticky tape. With the launch of WegoPro today we are leveraging technology and our deep experience in the B2C space to bring business travel & expense management into the 21st century.” WegoPro offers a diverse and extensive range of flight and …
Read More »Wego reveals 11.37% YoY increase in international flight bookings in MENA winter travel for 2023/2024
According to Wego’s data there is a surge in flight bookings 11.37% YoY increase in international flight bookings for the travel period between November 2023 and January 2024, as more MENA travellers are flying this winter compared to last year. Wego also observed that there’s been a steady rise in booking numbers every year since the post-pandemic period of 2021, reflecting a growing appetite for winter travel among MENA travellers. The latest findings included this season witnesses families and travellers gearing up for winter trips, either for leisurely vacations or for expat residents to return home. In time for the holiday, Wego has identified several winter travel trends among MENA travellers. Among the top destinations this winter Cairo stands out as the top destination among MENA residents, followed closely by Jeddah, Dubai, Istanbul, and Kuwait. Major cities in the South and Southeast Asia also feature on the list, with Manila, Lahore, and Delhi in the top 10. Travel interest in these destinations may represent the homecoming trips for the Filipino, Indian, and Pakistani communities in the region. According to Wego’s data, average flight prices for some popular routes are lower this winter compared to last year. Flights to Cairo from several GCC countries notably saw some of the steepest price drops, averaging up to 35% cut compared to last year’s winter period. Moreover, these same Cairo routes are now cheaper than during this year’s summer holiday, between 5 to 43.56% decrease, depending on the departure city. Even compared to pre-pandemic rates, Cairo routes now sport cheaper price tags. For instance, the average ticket price from Riyadh to Cairo in 2023 has dropped by 112.81% compared to the winter period toward the end of …
Read More »Wego teams up with Moroccan National Tourist Office
Wego announced a new collaboration aimed at promoting Morocco as a premier travel destination. This partnership combines Wego’s innovative travel technology with the rich cultural heritage and diverse offerings of Morocco, creating an unparalleled experience for global travelers. Wego, a pioneer in the online travel space, connects millions of users to a vast array of travel options, making trip planning seamless and enjoyable. The partnership with Moroccan National Tourist Office signifies a shared commitment to enhancing the visibility of Morocco on the global stage and driving tourism growth for the country. This partnership will showcase the beauty, history, and unique attractions of Morocco to MENA travelers. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality, Morocco is poised to become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking diverse experiences. Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Business Officer of Wego, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “At Wego, we are dedicated to inspiring and facilitating travel experiences. Our collaboration with Moroccan National Tourist Office is a testament to our commitment to promoting exceptional destinations. Morocco’s rich cultural tapestry, historical landmarks, and diverse landscapes align perfectly with what our users seek. We are thrilled to bring the magic of Morocco to the fingertips of travelers around the world.” The partnership aims to leverage Wego’s extensive reach, data-driven insights, and user-friendly platform to elevate Morocco’s visibility and attract a broader audience of travelers. Through joint marketing initiatives, curated content, and exclusive promotions, the collaboration seeks to position Morocco as a top destination for adventure, culture, and relaxation. As part of the partnership, Wego will feature dedicated sections on its platform highlighting Morocco’s key attractions, travel tips, and exclusive offers. Users will have access to comprehensive travel information, …
Read More »Kuwait and Jeddah are top destinations favoured by Egyptians : Wego
As travel picks up once again around the world. Wego provides a detailed report on Egypt’s top flight destinations for domestic and international travel in 2023. According to Wego’s 2023 data so far, Kuwait and Jeddah are highly favored by Egyptian travelers as top international destinations due to convenient accessibility and wide range of attractions. Following these two cities are Dubai, Doha, and Muscat. On the domestic front, Cairo takes the lead as the most popular choice even for local tourists. Along with Cairo, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Aswan, and Luxor also captivate Egyptian travelers with their unique characteristics. During the ongoing changes within the travel industry, Wego’s core mission is to assist Egyptian travelers in uncovering their preferred destinations, offering a streamlined booking process for flights and accommodations to ensure an exceptional travel experience. With a wide range of flight options at their disposal, those with a passion for global exploration will find countless opportunities in 2023.
Read More »Wego reveals top destinations for travelers from Saudi, India, Kuwait and Egypt for 2023
Wego reveals the trending international and domestic destinations for travelers from key countries in the region. As more avid globetrotters are taking to the skies this year and travelers from Saudi are no exception. Wego data found that Cairo, Istanbul, Dubai, Jakarta, and Lahore take the lead as the most popular international destinations from Saudi Arabia in 2023 so far. On the domestic front, Saudi travelers are rediscovering the beauty of their own country. Jeddah leads the way, followed by Riyadh, Dammam, Abha, and Medina. These international and domestic destinations offer a wealth of experiences for Saudi travelers. Whether exploring the treasures of Cairo or enjoying the coastal beauty of Jeddah, each destination has its unique charm. Wego remains committed to helping Saudi travelers discover their dream destinations, providing a seamless booking experience for flights and accommodations. With thousands of flight routes available, the possibilities are boundless for those eager to explore the world in 2023 and beyond. Airplanes leaving and returning to Kuwait once again adorn the nation’s sky as Kuwait travelers are eager to explore the world. Where are most of them travelling to this year? Wego has the answer as our data will reveal the most popular international destinations from Kuwait in 2023 so far. Topping the list of international destinations for Kuwait travelers is Cairo, immediately followed by Istanbul, Amman, Chennai, and Jeddah. All of these destinations offer a blend of modern and historical charms that appeal to Kuwaiti travelers. Wego remains committed to be the go-to travel site and app for Kuwait travelers, as well as the primary source of trip information ensuring that every journey is as memorable as the previous ones. Global travel …
Read More »Wego acquires Travelstop to expand into business travel
Wego acquired Travelstop. This strategic move will expand Wego’s reach into business travel and expense management. The acquisition will also empower Travelstop to tap into Wego’s regional network and leverage its deep understanding of the travel industry to drive growth and provide enhanced services to their customers. Wego has long been a leader in the travel industry, known for its innovative solutions and commitment to delivering exceptional and seamless travel experiences. Since its launch, Travelstop has emerged as a game-changer in the business travel industry, providing businesses of all sizes with a modern platform that streamlines travel management and automates expense processes. By combining their resources and expertise, Wego and Travelstop aim to revolutionize the way companies navigate the complexities of corporate travel as well as contribute to the growth and development of the travel industry in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions. “We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of Travelstop,” said Ross Veitch, CEO and Co-founder of Wego. “This strategic move is in line with our vision of offering comprehensive travel solutions to businesses in the region. Together, Travelstop and Wego will empower businesses to streamline their travel and expense management processes, introducing new levels of convenience and cost-efficiency.” Through this acquisition, Wego aims to address the unique challenges faced by businesses operating in emerging markets, such as fragmented travel options and manual expense reporting. The combined platform will provide businesses with a one-stop solution, enabling them to seamlessly manage their corporate travel needs while gaining greater visibility and control over expenses. “We are excited about the immense potential that this partnership brings,” said Prashant Kirtane, CEO & Co-founder of Travelstop. “With our combined expertise and assets, we …
Read More »Wego and VisitBritain witness a 25% boost in bookings to Great Britain
Wego’s statistics show a substantial surge in bookings from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait to Britain during the campaign, up 25% from January to June, compared to the same period last year. Additionally, passenger numbers traveling to Great Britain through Wego are up 27% during the same timeframe. There was also a 78% rise in Wego’s searches from Riyadh to Newcastle and a 63% increase in searches to Manchester. The multi-media advertising partnership campaign ‘Spilling the Tea on Great Britain’, which ran between January to June 2023, used a play on Britain’s love of tea, inviting visitors to ‘See Things Differently’. The campaign promoted Britain’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking coastlines and landscapes, as well as its dynamic cities and destinations including London, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Manchester. Wego VP of Brand Marketing and social media, Roxana Nicolescu said: “We are absolutely delighted with the campaign growth figures that our partnership with VisitBritain has achieved. This collaboration signifies our joint commitment to showcasing the unparalleled beauty and experiences that Britain has to offer. The impressive growth in engagement and bookings affirms the impact of our collective efforts in igniting wanderlust and facilitating seamless travel experiences.” VisitBritain Head of Partnerships, APMEA, Jennifer Huntley said: “Our partnership with Wego has been instrumental in promoting Britain’s diverse travel experiences across the nations and regions to a global audience. The impressive growth figures from our partnership are also testament to the allure of Britain as a destination and the power of collaboration in driving tourism growth.” In an initiative to facilitate traveling for GCC nationals, the UK Government is set to launch a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme commencing in October, starting with Qatar. …
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