Tag Archives: GCC

17% growth in Indian flight searches: Wego

 

Wego, the top travel app in the Middle East and North Africa, reported a 17.10% increase in international flight searches from India in November 2024 compared to the same period last year. This growth highlights the increasing demand for global travel among Indian travellers. GCC countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait, emerged as the most-searched destinations, followed by Thailand, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Bahrain, the U.S., and Indonesia.

The post-Diwali period significantly boosted travel activity as Indian expatriates and residents took advantage of the extended holiday season. Diwali-inspired vacations and return trips were complemented by other festivals like Guru Nanak Jayanti and Chhath Puja, which offered additional opportunities for long weekends. These events collectively drove demand for both short getaways and longer vacations, benefiting the travel ecosystem.

Wego’s analysis revealed notable airfare trends during this period. Average flight prices to the top 10 destinations increased by up to 34.43% month-over-month, reflecting heightened demand post-Diwali. However, year-over-year comparisons showed a decrease in fares to several destinations, including Qatar (-38.05%) and Kuwait (-15.36%), making international travel more affordable for Indian travellers.

This combination of festive travel, affordable airfare to some destinations, and a robust appetite for exploration underscores the resilience of India’s travel industry. As Wego continues to track travel trends, it highlights how cultural and seasonal factors influence travel behaviors and fuel growth in the sector.

London is one of the most popular global cities for Indians.

VisitBritain to showcase best of Britain to travel buyers at trade mission in Bengaluru

UK tourism suppliers are set to show top buyers from India, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and North Asia why Britain is the destination to visit now, as VisitBritain gears up to host its ‘Destination Britain Middle East and Asia’ trade mission for the first time in India.

Taking place from November 20 to 22 in Bengaluru, India, the three-day trade event sees dozens of UK tourism industry suppliers from across the nations and regions meet to do business with more than 70 top buyers from India, the GCC, Japan and South Korea, to drive business to Britain.

India is a very important visitor market for the UK and Bengaluru’s ease of access and leading facilities and delegate offer makes the city ideally placed to host this major trade event.

Hundreds of pre-scheduled one-to-one business meetings are taking place, alongside networking events and seminars from destinations across Britain, showcasing the latest products and experiences on offer. International buyers will have the opportunity to learn about Britain’s premier export-ready tourism products and its competitive visitor offer, broadening travel itineraries to drive visitor spending into regional economies.

Patricia Yates, CEO, VisitBritain, who is leading the trade mission to India, said, “This major trade mission brings our very important and highly valuable Asia and GCC markets together with UK suppliers to do business, shining the spotlight on the fantastic products and experiences on offer across Britain and making sure those are sold in international markets.

Building product and destination knowledge also broadens travel itineraries, so visitors explore more of Britain including through our regional gateways, spreading the benefits of visitor spending across our nations and regions.

The size of our delegation shows the enthusiasm from UK tourism suppliers to do business across these markets and to hear first-hand from buyers on the motivations and trends driving outbound travel. We are looking forward to showcasing our warm welcome as well as all the great reasons to book a trip to Britain right now.”

Chandru Iyer, British Deputy High Commissioner to Karnataka and Kerala, said, “I am delighted to see a very well attended Destination Britain Middle East & Asia held in the wonderful and bustling city of Bengaluru, with representatives from the UK and other countries who do a stellar role of promoting tourism in Britain. Tourism is an important part of the ‘Living Bridge’ that promotes people to people connect as well as helps to develop a greater understanding of our cultural landscape.

Apart from contributing to the economy, tourism is an enabler of promoting Education, Trade, Investment, and much more. Looking at the overall inbound tourism to UK, we’re seeing a strong growth in value from the Middle East and Asia region, with India forecast to be a billion-pound visitor market by 202c.”

Suppliers joining the trade mission include hotels, visitor attractions, transport providers, retailers, tour and sightseeing operators spanning the length-and-breadth of the nations and regions.

Visit Wales and destinations including Cumbria Tourism, Marketing Manchester, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, Visit West and West Midlands Growth Company are also attending, highlighting products and experiences available across their respective regions.
VisitBritain’s teams in market will also be running seminars to support UK tourism suppliers to engage and do business with trade from across India, the Gulf, Japan and South Korea, providing insights on market and consumer trends.

The trade mission comes as VisitBritain gets set to roll out its international ‘Starring GREAT Britain’ campaign. Launching early 2025, the campaign will use the powerful draw of film and tv locations and places seen-on-screen to inspire visitors to discover more of Britain. VisitBritain’s latest research shows that among those visitors considering a trip to the UK, nine out of ten surveyed across 20 markets would be interested in visiting a film or TV location. Among Indians considering a trip to the UK, 94% express interest in visiting film and TV locations, surpassing the global average of 91%.

India is projected to become a billion-pound visitor market by 2026. In 2023, Indian visitors spent a record GBP 804 million during 604,000 visits to the UK. VisitBritain’s latest statistics from January to June 2024 show a record spend of GBP 417 million, a 20% increase compared to 2023, along with a record 351,000 visits, reflecting a 27% rise from the previous year.

 

Sharjah gains popularity among Indians; showcases development & growth targets

Sharjah, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is quickly becoming a top tourism hotspot. To attract more visitors from India, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) recently hosted a roadshow in Mumbai, which saw strong participation from the city’s travel trade sector.

At the event, Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, highlighted Sharjah’s progress and its expanding range of attractions. “We are making significant advances, particularly in adventure tourism and eco-tourism, which is increasingly popular globally,” Midfa remarked.

One of Sharjah’s latest highlights is the Hanging Garden, featuring expansive green areas, flower-adorned terraces, and waterfalls. “This garden has quickly become a favourite among tourists and tends to be busy except during the summer months. However, visitors can still enjoy indoor amenities like restaurants and cafes during this time. The garden’s outdoor areas are open from September through May, and the Hanging Garden is also popular with Indian tourists,” Midfa added. He also noted a striking artificial lagoon near the garden, which offers a variety of activities for visitors.

Midfa noted that these attractions are situated in a rural area on the East Coast, and their development is being executed in three phases. “First, we connected the area to the city of Sharjah and the rest of the UAE with a world-class road. In the second phase, we established the attractions. Currently, we are focused on building additional hotels,” Midfa explained. He mentioned that Sharjah currently offers 11,000 hotel rooms.

When asked about possible joint marketing and promotional campaigns with other GCC countries, Midfa responded, “Such initiatives might occur in the future, but there are no plans at the moment. I believe individual efforts are currently more effective.”

Regarding the upcoming winter season, Midfa indicated that while there will be a winter campaign, it will not be as extensive as the summer campaign due to the existing strong demand.

On the Indian market, Midfa highlighted that the country has become Sharjah’s third-largest source market. “Last year, 165,000 Indian visitors stayed in Sharjah hotels. This year, our goal is to increase that number by 10%, aiming for around 185,000,” he said. He also noted that 94,000 Indians have visited Sharjah in the first half of this year, which is very encouraging.

Additionally, Sharjah International Airport is expanding its capacity from 8 million to 25 million passengers per year, with the project slated for completion by the end of 2026, according to Midfa.

Saudia Group signs largest aviation deal for the Kingdom with Airbus

Saudi Group has signed the largest aircraft deal in Saudi aviation history with Airbus during the first day of the Future Aviation Forum 2024 held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

This landmark agreement encompasses 105 confirmed aircraft and marks a significant moment not only for the Saudi aviation industry, but also for the wider MENA region. The ceremony, in the presence of His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of Saudi Arabian Airlines Corporation, Engr. Saleh Al-Jasser, was attended by dignitaries, country ambassadors, and key figures from the global aviation sector, as well as a multitude of media representatives and industry experts specializing in travel, aviation, and transportation.

The deal, signed by H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al Omar, the Director General of Saudia Group, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft Business, includes A320neo and A321neo models. These aircraft will be distributed between Saudia and flyadeal, the group’s low-cost carrier. Saudia will acquire 54 A321neo aircraft, while flyadeal will receive 12 A320neo and 39 A321neo aircraft.

The new aircraft directly support Saudia Group’s objectives to connect the world with the Kingdom, aligning with several key pillars of Saudi Vision 2030. These include the transportation and logistics objective to increase guests’ capacity to 330 million and expand destinations to 250 by 2030, and the tourism objective to attract 150 million visits by 2030. This is in addition to the Hajj and Umrah objective to contribute to the increase of Umrah pilgrim capacity to 30 million by 2030.

These modern aircraft boast a spacious cabin with a stylish interior design. They’re equipped with the latest amenities and technology, ensuring a truly differentiated travel experience that prioritizes Saudia guests’ comfort and privacy whilst delivering an exceptional service. Furthermore, the A320 family aircraft are fuel efficient as it emits 20% less fuel burn and carbon emissions compare to previous generation aircraft.

To ensure the new aircraft are always in top condition, Saudia Technic, the group’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) arm, will provide comprehensive maintenance services. This will prove even more crucial with the upcoming completion of the MRO Village at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, significantly increasing the company’s service capacity.

H.E. Engr. Saleh Al-Jasser, the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, said, “The aviation sector is grateful for the tremendous support provided by the country’s leadership. This agreement is one of the enablers of achieving the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. It will contribute to enhancing the operational performance of Saudia, increasing flights and seat capacity, and launching new destinations. Furthermore, it aims to connect the world to the Kingdom in line with the significant transformation witnessed by the aviation sector under Saudi Vision 2030, while also reaffirming our commitment to providing the best services that enhance the travel experience.”

H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said, “Saudia has ambitious operational objectives to meet growing demand. We are increasing flights and seat capacity across our existing 100+ destinations on four continents, with plans for further expansion. The progress of Saudi Vision 2030 is attracting more visits, tourists, entrepreneurs, and pilgrims each year. This motivated our decision to secure this significant deal, which will create jobs, increase local content, and contribute to the national economy.”

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business said, “The new additions of the A320neo family aircraft will play a vital role in contributing to Saudi Arabia’ ambitious Vision 2030 plan. It will enable Saudia Group’s strategy to advance the Kingdom’s aviation capabilities while enabling both airlines to benefit from the A320neo Family’s exceptional efficiency, superior economics, highest level of passenger comfort as well as lower fuel-burn and emissions.”

The ceremony marked a new chapter for Saudia, unveiling their largest investment ever in guest experience. This includes a first-of-its-kind AI-powered “Travel Companion”, to support guests through trip planning to after sales support. Business class cabins will be transformed into luxurious, privacy-focused suites that convert into flat beds, progressively rolling out across both existing and new fleets. Guests can also stay connected with high speed in-flight connectivity and enjoy unparalleled entertainment with the highest-definition screens soon to be on board.

 

Shangri-La Muscat, Oman names Joakim Af Trolle Velinder as Director of Sales and Marketing

 

Joakim Velinder is set to step into the position of Director of Sales and Marketing for Shangri-La Muscat in Oman, starting from May 19, 2024. Hailing from Sweden, Velinder will join the esteemed leadership team at the iconic Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah and Shangri-La Al Husn, nestled along the picturesque shores of the Gulf of Oman, offering a total of 640 rooms across 14 outlets.

Coming from a background at the Hyatt Group, Velinder brings with him a wealth of experience and accolades as a visionary leader in the hospitality industry. His professional journey, spanning from Europe to the Middle East, has included commercial roles in prominent destinations like Dubai, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and most recently, as the Cluster Director of Sales and Marketing for Alila Hotels in Oman.

With a diverse background in operational roles before transitioning to Sales and Marketing, Velinder has worked in renowned luxury hotels worldwide, including London’s Goring Hotel and the Park Hyatt Dubai. His extensive operational and strategic expertise, coupled with a deep understanding of the regional market, acquired through successful leadership roles across four of the six GCC states, uniquely positions him for his new role.

“I am excited to join the Shangri-La team and leverage my regional knowledge and global network to enhance the group’s partnerships,” says Velinder. “I look forward to driving business growth in our key markets, aligning with Shangri-La’s commitment to blending local charm with international luxury standards.”

Nick Flynn, Hotel Manager, expresses his delight in welcoming Velinder to the leadership team, emphasising his wealth of experience and regional insights. Velinder’s proven track record of innovative strategic planning and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly propel Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah and Shangri-La Al Husn towards continued success.

With Velinder’s appointment, Shangri-La looks forward to further enriching the guest experience and expanding its global reach while maintaining the warm hospitality and charm that define these exceptional Omani resorts.

MoT along with TAAI & VFS host ‘B2B Incredible India Evening’ in Dubai

In a collaborative effort supported by The Ministry of Tourism (MOT), Government of India, the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) and VFS Global successfully hosted a B2B Incredible India Evening – “Fostering Partnerships and Connections” last week at Taj Dubai.

This exclusive event brought together key industry professionals to foster partnerships and connections within the travel and tourism sector, with a primary focus on driving tourism visitorship to India.

The event witnessed the participation of 200+ esteemed buyers from across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, who engaged with an impressive array of 40 Indian stakeholders, including state tourism boards, Destination Management Companies (DMCs), and airline partners. This platform provided invaluable networking opportunities, enabling meaningful discussions and offering insights into the diverse offerings that India, as a premier travel destination, has to offer.

The overall success of Incredible India networking event was a result of culmination of a vision to invest in the entire eco-system of Travel and Tourism & Hospitality industry internationally and with the right partners.

Gyan Bhushan, IES – Senior Economic Advisor, Ministry of Tourism, India, said, “As India continues to assert its position as a premier global travel destination, fostering collaborations and partnerships within the tourism sector is imperative for realizing its vast potential. By facilitating direct engagement between GCC buyers and Indian tourism stakeholders, this event not only opens new avenues for collaboration but also lays a robust foundation for sustainable tourism growth. The Government of India is dedicated to improving tourism infrastructure and making India a top global travel destination. Such initiatives underscore the significance of concerted efforts in promoting India’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and unique experiences to visitors worldwide. Together, we are shaping a vibrant and inclusive tourism ecosystem that showcases the best of India to the world.”

Jyoti Mayal, President of TAAI, stated, “Under the visionary guidance of our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, the collaboration between TAAI and the Ministry of Tourism exemplifies a dynamic Pub-lic-Private Partnership (PPP) model poised to revolutionise India’s tourism landscape. This alliance is not merely about promoting tourism; it’s about actualizing it through a tangible increase in visitor numbers. This strategic partnership supports TAAI’s members, including travel agents and tour operators, and fos-ters connections with dedicated stakeholders, paving the way for successful business transactions. Our collective goal is to cultivate a multitude of synergies that will propel the growth of tourism in India, reflecting the government’s commitment to transforming the nation into a premier global destination. This in UAE is the first of a kind to be replicated globally.

The PPP model is pivotal in this transformation, as it harnesses the strengths of both sectors to optimize resource allocation, share risks, and foster innovation. It is a call to action for stakeholders to invest in a sector that is not only a cornerstone of economic growth but also a bridge to cultural exchange and un-derstanding. By investing in tourism, stakeholders are investing in the nation’s future, creating jobs, and promoting sustainable development. It is through such investments that we can ensure the longevity and success of India’s tourism industry, making it a beacon of opportunity and a testament to the power of partnership.”

Highlighting the significance of the event, Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer, Head of BD, VFS Global, said, “The B2B Incredible India Evening serves as a significant platform for industry stakeholders to come together and explore avenues for collaboration. As a truly Made in India company, VFS Global is proud to partner with TAAI to facilitate engagements that further enhance the Indian travel sector.”

With the GCC region being a key source market for Indian tourism, initiatives such as the B2B Incredible India Evening play a crucial role in strengthening business ties and encouraging long-term partnerships. By facilitating direct engagement between GCC buyers and Indian tourism stakeholders, the event opens up new avenues for collaboration and lays the foundation for sustainable tourism growth.
As India continues to position itself as a leading global travel destination, collaborative efforts between industry players are essential for realizing the potential of its tourism sector. Events like the B2B Incredible India Evening serve as catalysts for driving innovation, fostering partnerships, and ultimately enhancing the tourism experience for visitors from across the globe.