Category Archives: Agents

Cozmo Travel and MBank signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the aim to provide exceptional travel services to MBank’s staff and customers, offering exclusive deals and personalized experiences. The collaboration between Cozmo Travel and MBank will create a seamless travel ecosystem, ensuring hassle-free and memorable journeys for MBank employees. In addition, MBank customers will gain access to exclusive offers on Cozmo Travel’s extensive range of travel services, including flights, accommodation, visa assistance, and more. On this occasion, Cozmo Travel’s CEO Jamal Abdulnazar stated “We are excited to partner with MBank, a pioneer in the digital banking industry. Together, we will redefine travel experiences for MBank’s staff and customers, providing them with exceptional service and exclusive benefits. This collaboration reflects our shared vision of revolutionizing the way people travel in the region.” Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Al Maryah Community Bank, commented on the collaboration: “This partnership is a testament to Mbank’s commitment in bringing more choice and providing the UAE community with daily convenient financially-feasible solutions at the comfort of their fingertips whereby they can browse, choose, and pay for exclusive offers and travel services such as flights, accommodation, and visa assistance facilities through the first National digital wallet, the Mbank Wallet”. This partnership combines Cozmo Travel’s renowned quality and personalized service with MBank’s digital expertise, offering customers a comprehensive suite of travel services at their fingertips. By embracing innovation and technology, both organizations are committed to enhancing customer satisfaction and convenience.

The past few weeks saw a hike in airfares especially in the UAE. As an expat populated destination, the short breaks are always popular, and this continues year on year. Hitherto known destinations, have become the best escapes for the UAE travellers over the past few years. Georgia started off this campaign offering visa on arrival for residents of the UAE. Following them, other destinations too wanted a piece of the business, hence employed similar tactics to attract this huge expat market by ensuring they provide either visa on arrival or visa free for any nationality with a resident visa from the UAE. However, connectivity is a concern with the rise of the air ticket pricing, yet the number of travellers hasn’t really reduced, especially in the case of the Asian sectors. When it comes to holiday destinations such as Turkey which is a key outbound getaway for UAE travellers the pricing went up to almost 6k return, and Asian destinations, especially India was at a staggering 3k plus. Many travellers opting to spend time with their families back in India over the Eid holidays, are seen to be taking smarter ways by checking in from Ras Al Khaimah or Fujairah. No matter the price, travellers in the UAE would always take a chance to travel. Some travellers have also become smart in the sense that they pre-plan their travel dates almost six months prior so that they can partake in some of the best deals. What are the criteria for all this drama? What becomes of the families who wish to travel? Is there a balance between supply and demand? Well, we spoke with some of the key agents who …

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 …

Qatar Tourism hosted the British Travel and Tourism Institute (BITC) Conference in Doha again two decades later. Sponsored by destination partner Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways as official airline partner, the three-day conference was held at the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Hotel Doha, in the presence of more than 200 senior representatives of the UK travel industry including government officials and major international airlines. The conference included a series of panel discussions during which the growth prospects of Qatar’s tourism industry were reviewed, with the participation of prominent figures in the travel and tourism industry, including Gary Wilson, CEO of easyJet Holidays, and His Excellency John Wilkes, British Ambassador to Doha. Bertold Trinkel, Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism, said: “Qatar Tourism is delighted to host this important conference in Doha and showcase Qatar’s key tourism offerings and benefits to some of the UK’s leading travel industry. The relationship between Qatar and the UK is gaining great importance and vitality, not only in terms of tourism, but also through the common history that unites the two countries. As we continue to participate in such travel and business events, we look forward to strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading destination for hosting global business events.” The BITTI’s member-only conference follows a series of high-profile business events hosted by Qatar Tourism since the start of the year, including the World Association of the Exhibition Industry Middle East and Africa conference in May. The UK is one of Qatar Tourism’s 15 priority markets as per its National Tourism Strategy 2030 and has always been among the top 10 countries in the list of source markets. to Qatar.

For the first time, the Spanish Tourism Office in the Middle East together with the Tourism Board of Andalusia came together to organize Middle East Meet in Andalusia with Lufthansa Airlines as the official airline partner. Andalusia Tourism has emerged as a captivating destination with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Located in southern Spain, Andalusia offers a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty that has attracted travelers from all over the world, including the Middle East market. From the vibrant city life of Seville and Malaga to the tranquil beaches of the Costa del Sol, Andalusia provides a variety of experiences that appeal to different travel interests. Additionally, the region’s cuisine, characterized by flavorful dishes such as paella and tapas, can also entice Middle Eastern visitors seeking culinary delights Andalusia’s accessibility and excellent transportation infrastructure have made it easier for Middle Eastern tourists to explore the region. The presence of direct flights and convenient connections from major Middle Eastern cities has contributed to the increasing number of visitors from the region. Lufthansa Group airlines have a strong network into Spain, with 17 cities .with the Premium Economy a very popular segment for family travel, 2 PC Free baggage allowance in both directions & with extremely competitive fares , it is a great option for those looking into flying into any of the 17 Spanish cities in their network. The event was conducted in 2 parts in Cordoba & Marbella , from June 11-15th , 2023 at the Eurostars Palace Hotel & El Fuerte Marbella hotel respectively. 15 buyers from across GCC – KSA, Qatar, Kuwait , Oman , UAE met with the representatives of local tourist …

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Emirates will host the 80th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on 2-4 June 2024. “We look forward to gathering the aviation industry in Dubai for the 80th IATA AGM in 2024. Dubai is a dynamic city and a major aviation hub connecting the world. The UAE’s positive approach to aviation has built a strong airline with a strong hub airport. Together, these make an enormously powerful and positive contribution to the society and economy of the UAE. Holding the AGM in Dubai will be a showcase of what can be achieved by aviation with supportive government policies and decisions,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. “Emirates is delighted to host the 80th IATA AGM and World Air Transport Summit. We look forward to welcoming all our aviation industry colleagues to Dubai in 2024,” said Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline. The decision to host the 80th IATA AGM was made by the 79th AGM in Istanbul.  This will be the first time the UAE and Dubai will host the global gathering of aviation’s top leaders.

Almosafer (part of Seera Group), has signed a partnership agreement with the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce to develop Saudi talent for the travel and tourism sector. The partnership will enable Almosafer to expand the reach of its in-house training programme, Almosafer Academy, which equips young Saudi nationals with the necessary skills and industry knowledge needed to succeed and grow as travel advisors or other industry professions. Almosafer and the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce will work together to enable more university students in Saudi Arabia to apply to Almosafer Academy. Fahad Alobailan, Chief Tourism Officer of Almosafer, said: “This partnership with the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce will help accelerate our efforts to develop the necessary human capital for a sustainable travel and tourism industry. As our industry grows, there is a wealth of opportunity for young Saudis to embark on successful careers. I am pleased we are doing our part in championing young talent as we continue to support the tourism agenda of Saudi Vision 2030.” Naif Abdullah Al-Rajhi, Second Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors Riyadh Chamber and Chairman of the Tourism Committee, said: “We are pleased to be collaborating with Almosafer. This partnership is poised to significantly enhance human competencies, underpinning the growth of the travel and tourism sectors and aligning seamlessly with the Kingdom’s strategic mission to cultivate and advance Saudi talents, inspiring them to pioneer and lead initiatives across diverse disciplines.” The signing took place at the inaugural Tourism Investment Forum in Riyadh which was sponsored by Almosafer. Fahad Alobailan, Chief Tourism Officer at Almosafer, moderated a panel discussion on private sector investments with Her Highness Princess Haifa Bint Mohammed Al Saud, Vice Minister of Tourism, …

Wego offers travelers an unforgettable experience in Spain this summer. Wego and Spain Tourism will be promoting the best things to do in the country and sharing guides and tips on how to spend the best summer holiday. This strategic collaboration brings together the extensive reach and expertise of Wego in the online travel industry and the allure of Spain’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. Summer in Spain is one of the most enjoyable travel experiences. The vibrant cities such as Madrid and Barcelona offer a plethora of shopping options from high end boutiques to traditional markets that are perfect for every type of traveler. Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial Officer and Managing Director, MENA and India, Wego, said: “Spain is a preferred destination for MENA travelers. Through our partnership with Spain Tourism, we aim to attract a wider audience and boost tourism to this captivating country. We will be providing curated itineraries, and personalized travel recommendations, to inspire and assist travelers in planning their dream trips to Spain.” Wego will showcase Spain’s diverse attractions, including its historic landmarks, breathtaking beaches, and world-renowned culinary scene, to its vast user base. Daniel Rosado, Director of Spain Tourism for the Middle East, said: “Spain is a well-known country in the GCC region and it’s experiencing a continuous increase in demand year after year. To consolidate this trend and build on it, we are partnering up with Wego to reach more and better the potential audience. Spain is a world in a country where travellers will find all they are looking for and that they desire, as Spain caters for all tourists. Through this campaign we will increase the awareness in …

In line with Dubai Economic Agenda D33’s objective of solidifying the emirate’s position as one of the top three global cities for business and travel, business tourism accelerated its role in fostering economic growth during 2022. Continuing to drive Meetings Incentives Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector growth in Dubai in a post-pandemic new market, the largest operator across the wider region, Dubai World Trade Centre’s (DWTC) event calendar remained an economic catalyst for the nation – generating sustainably high returns for adjacent industries connected to the MICE ecosystem. The latest 2022 Economic Impact Assessment (EIA) Annual Report estimates DWTC’s total economic output across 63 large-scale events at AED 13Bn, of which a substantive AED 7.4Bn was retained within the local economy. These business events hosted, organised and delivered at the venue, welcomed nearly 1.2MM attendees with 40% being international – an impressive 49% YOY increase in foreign participation, emphasising Dubai’s leadership as a global mega-event hub. The study further observed that direct investments in an event at DWTC generated 7.4x in impact across the wider economy, meaning that every AED 1MM spent at these MICE events, drove circa AED 7.4MM of economic output for Dubai across other interlinked sectors. “Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and the recently launched Dubai Economic Agenda D33, DWTC remains committed to furthering its contribution to the targets of doubling GDP over the next decade, particularly in consolidating its position as a top three global city,” said His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, in his capacity as Director General, DWTC Authority. “The MICE sector has long been an integral pillar of …

MeetChina, the business forum for travel buyers from China and tourism suppliers from the MENA region, returns to Yas Island Abu Dhabi for the first time since the pandemic. Taking place at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, the event will kick off on September 4, 2023, with two days of intensive meetings aimed at reestablishing tourism ties between China and the region. MeetChina is owned and operated by NPI Media, with the support of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT – Abu Dhabi) along with Yas Island as the Destination Partner. Now in its 10th year, the 2023 edition will welcome up to 100 top senior-level Chinese travel buyers. Playing an integral role in the resurgence of China’s outbound travel market, MeetChina guarantees tourism stakeholders from across the UAE an opportunity to secure business from China through pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings and networking sessions over the course of two days. Event registration is open to government tourism organisations, hotels, destination management companies (DMCs), attractions, excursion providers, shopping malls and luxury retail brands. In 2019, outbound travel from China contributed over US$253 billion to the global economy – the highest of any country. Chinese tourists took more than 150 million trips during the year, making them outsized contributors to the international travel market. Earlier this year, the country eased all restrictions, allowing outbound travel activity to resume. According to the China Outbound Tourism Research Institute (COTRI), Chinese travellers are projected to take around 110 million international trips in 2023, which is two-thirds of the 2019 level, while 2024 will see the country’s outbound travel figures touch the 155 million mark. During the past decade, China consistently ranked among …