Category Archives: Agents

Ajman is currently witnessing a substantial increase in tourists from the CIS countries, recording an exceptional increase of 12 per cent visitors and 12 per cent increase in nightly accommodations. This is a testament to the growing attractiveness of the emirate as a tourist destination. There has been a marked increase of 3 per cent in hotel occupancy rate, along with a 5 per cent increase in room revenues as compared to the previous year. The Ajman Tourism Department has launched a promotional tour to the CIS under the leadership of His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General of the Ajman Tourism Development Department. The tour, which is being held from September 14 to September 21, has been organised to reinforce collaborations with representatives from the tourism sector of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan in a move to attract more tourists to the emirate of Ajman. The promotional tour includes visits to Almaty, Tashkent and Baku, during which the Department is highlighting Ajman’s latest tourist destinations and new projects which aim to enhance the Emirate’s position as a global tourist destination. His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi said: “The key goal of the promotional tour is to enhance Ajman’s position as a leading tourist destination at a regional and global scale. Our visit to the CIS is aimed at deepening strategic relations with our key partners, and further explore newer avenues for cooperation ad exchange of expertise.” He added: “During the promotional tour, we are showcasing Ajman’s rich heritage and ongoing transformation as a unique cultural and tourist destination within the UAE, enabling us to draw more visitors. We are confident that all these efforts will create new opportunities for sustainable economic …

Al Jaber Travel and Tours Qatar announced its latest addition to its portfolio, Al Jaber DMC, delving into destination management as they have the capacity, experience, knowledge and facilities to cater to the inbound travellers to Qatar. Dileep Nair General Manager Al Jaber Travel and Tours shared, ” keeping in line with Qatar’s Vision 2030, we have developed this brand, Al Jaber DMC, a destination management company where we can serve inbound travellers with memorable experiences. Qatar’s Vision 2030 includes economic growth, social development and environmental management, these 3 aspects will boost Qatar’s tourism. Hence, we decided that this will be an opportunity for us to launch this brand now so that we could assist travellers coming from different parts of the world into Qatar to experience Qatar’s true hospitality and enjoy the landscapes of Qatar. Our advantage is that we have two hotels of our own Century Hotel Doha, which is Four Star and Century Marina Lusail which is a five star hotel, this  makes it easier for us to curate packages for different types of travellers coming into Qatar. We are specialists in MICE  and cruise sector and this too adds on to our plethora of offerings to our valuable customers. As we embark on the cruise season in a few weeks as winter this time there are three main cruise lines which would operate and a few others expected, which we will update very soon.”

Travalyst has scaled flight emissions information globally, with emissions data appearing in over 65 billion searches1. The search figure, released by Travalyst – the not-for-profit organisation founded by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex – aggregates data from a number of its coalition partners2, which include Amadeus, Booking.com, Expedia Group, Google, Sabre, Skyscanner, Travelport, and Trip.com Group. Travalyst’s mission is to align the travel industry behind clear, consistent and credible sustainability information to help people make more informed choices. The Travel Impact Model (TIM), which estimates lifecycle emissions for flights at the individual passenger level, was developed by Google and has been scaled through the Travalyst coalition. Platforms using the TIM present flight emissions information at the time of booking, so travellers are able to choose a flight with an estimated lower-than-typical CO2e footprint3. On some platforms, travellers can also sort flight search results by emissions, alongside standard filter options such as cost and arrival/departure time. For example, the typical CO2e per passenger on a one-way economy flight from London (LGW) to New York (JFK) is 466 kg4. Popular travel booking platforms highlight an option that is 12% (57 kg) lower than the typical CO2e for that route. The difference in CO2e is approximately equivalent to a passenger’s flight from London (LGW) to Dublin (DUB) (typically 56 kg CO2e). The TIM takes a variety of attributes into account including flight origin and destination, aircraft type, cabin class and seat configuration, load factors and average aircraft utilisation. With such granular data comes the ability to see emissions at individual airline level, which could pave the way for airlines to compete on reducing their climate impact, as well as price and service. …

SAUDIA announced a new partnership with AlUla Club Company, to provide exclusive travel benefits for the company’s employees and affiliates. SAUDIA has been at the forefront of showcasing Al-Ula’s heritage and tourism through several high-profile initiatives, and this partnership builds on a rich history of collaboration between SAUDIA and the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU). Signed by Wail Basaffar, Assistant Vice President of KSA Sales at SAUDIA, and Waleed Muath, Chief Executive Officer of AlUla Club Company, the agreement will offer special discounts and rates on domestic and international flights with SAUDIA, further enhancing AlUla Club Company employees’ travel experiences. Recently, Alula FM became the first radio station to be featured on SAUDIA’s In-flight entertainment system. The airlines has also played a key role in sponsoring AlUla Skies Festival in 2022 and 2023, which included a diverse range of sky activities such as hot air ballooning and drone displays, attracting a wider audience to the region. Additionally, SAUDIA sponsored the Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo tournament in 2022, highlighting Al Ula’s cultural vibrancy. Earlier milestones included the 2021 launch of the “Museum in the Sky,” a first of its kind flight experience that showcased Al-Ula’s archaeological treasures. SAUDIA was also the first airline to introduce seasonal flights to AlUla in 2019, solidifying its highlighting its continued dedication to enhancing the region’s growth. Wail Basaffar said: “This partnership not only reflects SAUDIA’s commitment to expanding our network of collaborations but also builds on our long-standing relationship with RCU. As we continue to grow our fleet and enhance our travel services, we are excited to offer exclusive benefits to AlUla Club Company employees and further strengthen our enduring ties with the region.” Waleed …

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has reinforced its commitment to becoming a global tourism leader by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA). The agreement, finalized during the Global AI Summit in Riyadh, emphasizes the Kingdom’s focus on leveraging advanced technology to support its Vision 2030 objectives. Tourism, a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan, has already surpassed expectations. In 2023, the Kingdom reached its target of welcoming 100 million annual tourists—seven years ahead of schedule. Now, Saudi Arabia is setting its sights even higher, aiming to attract 150 million tourists by the end of the decade. This rapid growth underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to developing its tourism infrastructure and embracing innovation, with AI playing a central role in this transformation. At the heart of this next phase of growth is the integration of artificial intelligence. The partnership with SDAIA is designed to embed AI across the tourism sector, enhancing operational efficiency, personalizing visitor experiences, and optimizing resource management. The MoC outlines plans to establish a Center of Excellence for AI in tourism, deploy AI-driven technologies, and create data-driven strategies to continually refine and elevate the sector’s offerings. His Excellency Anas Al-Sulai, Assistant Minister of Tourism, emphasized the transformative impact of AI on Saudi tourism. “Saudi tourism is growing at an incredible pace, and we are seeing visitors from all over the world choose Saudi Arabia as their destination. As we continue this upward trajectory, we recognize the critical role of technology in enhancing the visitor experience. From the moment travelers land at our airports to every experience they have in our country, AI will be a key …

Asia’s Resorts World Cruises announced its sailing within key GCC destinations from 1st November 2024. Resorts World One will homeport in Dubai via DP World’s Mina Port Rashid to offer three weekly departures. These include 2 night Sir baniyas weekend cruise (Friday departures), 3 night Oman (Khasab-Muscat) cruise (Sunday departures) and the 2 night Doha cruise (Wednesday departures). For longer cruise vacation, passengers can combine any of the itineraries to make a 4,5 and 7 night cruise. Speaking at the first press conference Michael Goh, President Resorts World Cruises shared, “it is an exciting time for Resorts World Cruises as we inch closer to the start of our first sailing from Dubai to the Gulf with the Resorts World One on 1st November. The response form the Gulf and from various markets in Asia, including from our travel partners have been very encouraging and we look forward to welcoming guests aboard soon.”

As part of their shared commitment to highlight Oman as a preferred tourist destination, Oman Air and the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism have joined forces for a special stopover promotion for passengers transiting through Muscat. Available until 30 November 2024, the offer provides a free one-night hotel stay for premium class passengers when booking a stopover in Muscat, while those traveling in Economy Class can enjoy two nights for the price of one. In addition, guests have access to exclusive discounts on tours, car hire, and other services, making it the perfect opportunity to explore Oman’s charming capital and beyond. Launched just in time for the winter season, visitors can experience Muscat at its very best, with warm weather, stunning landscapes and cultural activities promising an unforgettable retreat. Committed to promoting the natural beauty, rich heritage and friendly, genuine hospitality of its home-base, Oman Air remains dedicated to serving as a gateway for tourists to Oman, providing them with seamless connectivity, convenient flight schedules, and award-winning onboard products and services. Passengers who hold a return ticket to any destination on Oman Air’s network with a transit through Muscat can take advantage of the limited-time offer. Guests can simply fill out the online request form and make their stopover booking by 30 November 2024. It is important to note that the complimentary hotel stay includes the room only and is subject to availability. A maximum of one stopover per return ticket applies. For full terms and conditions, please contact Oman Air Holidays at holidays@omanair.com.

McArthurGlen Group, Europe’s leading developer and manager of Designer Outlets with presence in eight countries across Europe and Canada, proudly sponsored the recent “Empowering Generations, Strengthening the Nation” event. Held on August 28th in SLS Dubai Hotel, this inspiring event brought together pioneering Emirati women from various fields to celebrate their remarkable achievements, exchange valuable insights, and discuss the bright future of women in the UAE. Inspiring keynote speeches and dynamic panel discussions took center stage with accomplished Emirati women sharing their remarkable journeys, challenges, and successes. Established in 2015 by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, this prestigious annual celebration highlights the UAE’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and the vital contributions of women in shaping the nation’s future. “Emirati Women’s Day is a celebration of the strength and resilience of women driving change and progress in the UAE,” said Sabina Piacenti, International Markets Manager at McArthurGlen Designer Outlets. “We are honoured to have been a key sponsor of this significant event, which resonates with our commitment to empowering individuals at every level. The celebration perfectly embodied McArthurGlen’s values by honoring the contributions and leadership of Emirati women across diverse sectors, from business and government to arts, education, and beyond.” Sumeera Bahl, Director, DDP Group, shared, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to McArthurGlen Designer outlets for joining us in celebrating Emirati Women’s Day and recognizing the remarkable women who have shaped this great nation. This event honoured the resilience, strength, and achievements of Emirati women, who inspire us daily. Our Chief Guest, the world’s first Emirati female wildlife photographer, along with the leading women in fields such as business, travel, tourism, and hospitality, who …

The Jamaica Tourist Board has appointed Buzz Travel Marketing Middle East as its new Trade Representative office for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. This partnership marks an exciting milestone in Jamaica’s efforts to expand its presence and strengthen relationships within the GCC travel market. Buzz Travel Marketing Middle East’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the GCC travel landscape, make them an ideal partner to achieve Jamaica’s overarching tourism goals and communicate its diverse tourism offerings. The appointment reflects the Jamaica Tourist Board’s investment in its strategic focus on enhancing visibility and engagement with travelers from the GCC countries. “Selecting Buzz Travel Marketing Middle East to represent Jamaica in the GCC region is a commitment to our strategic ambitions to attract more visitors from this lucrative market said Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett. “The GCC region holds great potential for Jamaica’s tourism industry, and we are confident that having a team on the ground with such expertise will help us reach and resonate with travelers seeking unique experiences in our beautiful island destination.” In 2023, Jamaica achieved a 17% increase in tourist arrivals from the previous year recording more than US4.2 billion in revenue, proving its resilience amidst global challenges. Building on this momentum, Jamaica continues to push the boundaries by receiving investments valued at US4 to US5 billion in tourism development which is projected to bring 20,000 new rooms in the next 10 to 15 years, including the much-anticipated debut of 2,000 new rooms in 2024 and a total of 8,500 rooms by 2025. “Jamaica is ready to welcome more visitors from the GCC region which will build a stronger relationship through our diverse culture and tourism offerings. …

DubaiDestinations 2024 summer campaign wrapped up with 20 million video views across social media platforms and drew impressive engagement among both local and global audiences. This year saw many new visitors from Eastern European destinations visit Dubai over the summer. Launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, the year-round campaign highlights the exceptional activities and experiences that make Dubai a one-of-a-kind destination across all seasons. The vibrant finale of the collaborative campaign, implemented by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), utilised the power of storytelling to enhance the city’s profile as a top global summer destination. Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, said: “The summer phase of the 2024 #DubaiDestinations campaign brilliantly captured the essence of Dubai’s diverse and exciting experiences, further cementing its status as a leading global destination. This year’s campaign achieved impressive engagement from both local and global audiences, with captivating content shared across various platforms that inspired millions to discover Dubai’s diverse summer destination offerings. The overwhelming response, with tremendous public engagement and more than 20 million video views across social media platforms, including Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook and X, underscores the campaign’s success in showcasing Dubai’s multifaceted appeal. More than 3,000 pieces of content were also shared across digital channels, reflecting the campaign’s widespread impact.” Featuring interactive storytelling and visually engaging content, this phase of the campaign highlighted beach destinations, waterparks, indoor activities, and hotel pools, showcasing the city’s wide array of attractions that appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds. Some of the emirate’s most …