Category Archives: Agents

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has launched two new e-learning modules for its Experience Abu Dhabi Experts Platform. The Official Abu Dhabi Pass and Ramadan in Abu Dhabi online modules are designed to equip travel trade industry professionals with the insights and tools they need to deliver exceptional travel planning and guest experiences and further reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading year-round destination.  The e-learning platform provides travel trade industry professionals with an extensive range of destination-related information about the emirate and has become one of DCT Abu Dhabi’s most successful trade engagement initiatives. The new Abu Dhabi Pass and Ramadan content has a strong focus on destination insights that ensure agents have the necessary understanding they need to promote the region and what it has to offer. Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “These new modules reflect how the Experience Abu Dhabi Experts Platform continues to evolve and how we prioritise providing our partners with practical, hands-on tools that make a real difference to how they sell the destination. Whether it’s helping them package the emirate’s leading attractions through the Abu Dhabi Pass or giving them the cultural insight to guide visitors respectfully during the holy month, this expansion ensures the knowledge they gain translates directly into stronger product design, more memorable experiences, and greater visitor satisfaction.” Issued by DCT Abu Dhabi’s official digital pass for Abu Dhabi offers guests savings of up to 50% across more than 70 of Abu Dhabi’s top attractions, including Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi. The module provides an overview …

Oman Air hosted an official signing ceremony with Fun & Sun to formalise their new strategic partnership aimed at expanding direct access between Moscow and Salalah. The partnership forms part of Oman Air’s broader commitment to enhancing point-to-point connectivity and supporting Oman’s growing tourism sector. Expected to draw thousands of visitors during its inaugural season, the initiative contributes directly to Oman’s national tourism objectives and supports the continued development of Dhofar as a year-round destination. The seasonal charter flights between Moscow and Salalah will operate between 26 December 2025 and 9 May 2026. Meanwhile, the airline, which flew more than 200,000 guests into Salalah during khareef’s peak period alone – a 15% increase over 2024 – continues to work closely with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and Dhofar Municipality to promote the destination and support sustainable growth in domestic and inbound tourism. The event brought together senior representatives from both organisations, including Mike Rutter, Chief Commercial Officer at Oman Air, and Yaroslav Stepanyuk, Commercial Director at Fun & Sun. Journalists from the Russian media and members of the local Omani media were also in attendance. Speaking at the ceremony, Mike Rutter, CCO of Oman Air, emphasised the significance of the collaboration, noting that strengthening direct routes from high-potential markets such as Russia aligns with the airline’s long-term commercial strategy and ongoing transformation. Yaroslav Stepanyuk, Commercial Director at Fun & Sun added, “Salalah is rapidly emerging as one of the most desirable winter-sun destinations for Russian travellers. Through this partnership, we are opening the door to a new chapter of growth and strengthening the bridge between our markets.” Oman Air’s ongoing focus on point-to-point growth has resulted in an increase …

The Arabian Travel Awards concluded its First Edition in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step forward in recognising and honouring top achievers within the Kingdom’s fast-growing travel, tourism, and hospitality sector. The event celebrated trailblazers, innovators, and organisations whose contributions are driving Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a world-class global destination. With the Kingdom’s tourism landscape evolving at record pace under Vision 2030, the inaugural edition aimed to spotlight excellence across airlines, hotels, travel agencies, technology providers, tourism boards, and service partners — shaping the future of travel in the region. The event was supported by TravTalk Middle East as the official media partner, bringing regional coverage and industry visibility to the award winners, participating brands, and the broader travel community. TravTalk Middle East’s partnership reinforces the shared mission of empowering industry talent, encouraging innovation, and amplifying Saudi Arabia’s tourism potential to global audiences. The First Arabian Travel Awards in Saudi Arabia represents the beginning of a new chapter — one that celebrates success stories, elevates standards, and strengthens the Kingdom’s position as a leading tourism hub.

Daniel Ponzo Group Managing Director of Zahid Travel Group entered the Gallery of Legends at the First Edition of the Arabian Travel Awards in Saudi Arabia. Ponzo is a distinguished global travel executive with over 30 years of leadership across Europe and the GCC. As Group Managing Director of Zahid Travel Group in Saudi Arabia, he has played a pivotal role in transforming corporate, luxury, and destination management during a defining era for the Kingdom. An Italian-Swiss leader based in Jeddah, he speaks five languages and is known for driving growth, operational excellence, and digital advancement. He built Zahid Travel Group’s destination management arm from inception, supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 tourism ambitions. Passionate about cultural connection and innovation, Ponzo continues to shape the future of travel across the region.

Saleem Sharif Deputy Managing Director, ATS Travel, a travel industry leader with over 30 years of experience in transforming travel management companies across the Middle East, was recognised as the DDP Gamechanger at the inaugural Arabian Travel Awards in Saudi Arabia. Known for his innovative and strategic foresight, Sharif has successfully built and scaled verticals, including Corporate Travel, MICE, Luxury, Leisure, DMC, Charters, Logistics, Automation, and IT Solutions. He is especially recognised for driving market growth in Saudi Arabia, securing prestigious PIF-linked and multinational accounts, and redefining service standards. He has led the shift from traditional models to advanced automated platforms, enhancing cost efficiency and client control. A respected speaker and thought leader, he continues to influence future-focused travel strategy in the region.

According to RateHawk the number of bookings for ground transportation services has doubled, and the gross booking value has increased by 130% compared to last year. While road trips and car rental services remain especially popular in Europe and North America, demand for transfers is surging amid the growing popularity of Asian destinations. RateHawk registered the 100% growth of transfer services in the first ten months of the year compared to the previous year. Every third agent who booked a hotel via RateHawk for clients also booked a transfer service. The top five destinations where transfers are the most popular include Italy, Spain, the USA, France, and the UK. Moreover, following the global trend toward travel in Asia, there has been significant growth in demand for transfers in Asian destinations such as Japan, Vietnam, China, and Singapore. Other rapidly growing markets include Egypt and Qatar. “Overall, our partners can book transfers from 19 trusted suppliers in 165 countries. In many locations, transfers are a more convenient and cost-effective alternative to taxis. Offering transfers to their clients, travel agents ensure a more pleasant experience from the very beginning of their trip: the price is set in advance, the driver arrives at the required time, even at night, and travellers don’t need to download new apps or look for a driver after a long flight. At RateHawk, we provide travel agents with a carefully curated selection of accommodation and transport options, enabling them to book an entire trip for their clients in one place, rather than switching between multiple platforms,” says Fredrik Bonnalt, Head of Non-Accommodation Supply at Emerging Travel Group, RateHawk’s parent company. Car rentals also have shown steady growth throughout …

Satguru Travel & Tourism was honoured as ‘Best Corporate Travel Management Company’ at the 8th edition of the Arabian Travel Awards in Dubai. Satguru Travel & Tourism is one of the world’s largest travel management company established in 1989 and headquartered in Dubai, UAE. We have successfully celebrated over 35+ years in the travel industry and have established more than 140+ branches in 80+ countries with 4000+ satisfied employees and a large number of pleased customers. Satguru Travel specializes in corporate travel management; Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE); International & Domestic Holiday Packages; Worldwide Visa Assistance, Activities & Excursions, Worldwide Hotel Bookings Airline Representation, Cruise Packages, Travel Insurance and Airport Transfers & Transportations. It has been consistently recognized for its premium solutions and service excellence, winning many regional & global industry awards.

As Abu Dhabi unveils the highly anticipated Zayed National Museum this week, Expedia data reveals an unprecedented surge in traveller interest – with long-haul American travelers leading a global rush to witness another cultural marvel in the UAE. Global searches on Expedia for Abu Dhabi travel have increased 15% year-over-year.* The United States is leading with a staggering 40% increase in searches for December travel**, while both the UK and France show 10% growth***. “The opening of Zayed National Museum represents a landmark moment for cultural tourism in the region,” said an official from Expedia Group. “We’re seeing travelers from around the world eager to be among the first to experience this world-class institution.” The museum honors the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, by keeping heritage alive and cultivating a spirit of learning and belonging. It unites the nation’s diverse community around shared milestones and values, providing a window into the UAE’s history and culture. Designed by the renowned Lord Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, its collection features over 3,000 pieces, with 1,500 currently on display, each telling its own story. Residents as well as international tourists, can expect a groundbreaking blend of archaeological artifacts with cutting-edge audiovisual experiences, sensory installations, and contemporary art. Insider Picks: Opening Week Hotel Stays Abu Dhabi has no shortage of iconic stays across the destination. According to Expedia’s recent data, several hotels have seen a similar spike coinciding with the Zayed National Museum opening****, in proximity to the Saadiyat Cultural District, which includes: Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas Millennium Residences Saadiyat Island The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is showcasing the emirate’s expanding luxury credentials at the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Cannes. At the flagship event for the global luxury travel industry taking place this week, DCT Abu Dhabi is connecting with key industry partners to create new growth opportunities, highlighting the destination’s unique blend of high-end hospitality, fine dining, and landmark cultural attractions. Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen and expand its luxury portfolio, with the world’s highest concentration of five-star hotels and 21 new hotel projects currently under development, including upcoming properties from Nobu Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts. The emirate’s culinary scene has also gained international recognition, now home to three Michelin-starred restaurants – Hakkasan, Talea, and Erth – and eight Bib Gourmand recipients. The delegation’s presence at ILTM Cannes coincides with the launch of two major cultural institutions in the emirate. The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi opened in November, followed by the inauguration of Zayed National Museum, the national museum of the UAE, today. These landmark institutions will further enrich Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District, which features the world’s highest concentration of cultural experiences. To further empower its luxury travel trade partners, DCT Abu Dhabi continues to enhance its support tools. The ‘Experience Abu Dhabi Experts’ e-learning platform is available in 13 languages and provides partners with in-depth destination knowledge to become certified specialists, while the recently launched reseller portal for the Abu Dhabi Pass offers wholesale rates and a seamless interface for agents to expand their product offerings. DCT Abu Dhabi invites ILTM Cannes attendees to visit its delegation at the Experience Abu Dhabi stand, H161, …

RezLive.com announced that it has once again been recognized at the prestigious Arabian Travel Awards 2025, held in Dubai, securing the coveted title of Best Travel Booking Platform. This honor underscores RezLive.com’s unwavering commitment to innovation, reliability, and excellence in the B2B travel space. It is a testament to the trust and support of our valued travel partners worldwide, who continue to inspire us to push boundaries and redefine industry standards. “This achievement belongs to our partners and team who believe in our vision and drive us forward. Together, we are shaping the future of B2B travel.” – Jaal Shah, Founder – RezLive.com and Group Managing Director – Travel Designer Group RezLive.com extends heartfelt gratitude to every partner and stakeholder for being an integral part of this journey. With this milestone, we reaffirm our mission to deliver cutting-edge solutions and seamless experiences that empower travel businesses across the globe. Here’s to many more milestones ahead – together, we continue to redefine B2B travel.