A leading Kuwait tour operator is forecasting an increase of up to 10 per cent in inbound tourism this year.
The Kuwait Tourism Services Company (KTSC), the country's first inbound tour operator, also says a major growth in the local tourism industry will help fuel the sector. "There will be 750 more rooms in new hotels within the next 12 to 13 months as well as many entertainment projects which can attract family tourism to Kuwait," said KTSC executive director Mohammed Najia. Najia said the company currently offers Mini-Break packages to visitors to Kuwait which have proved popular not only among local residents but visitors from neighbouring countries too. The packages offer attractive hotel accommodation options with complimentary breakfast and airport transfers. Another popular option among visitors is the Weekend Package which is offered in association with national carrier Kuwait Airways. The package includes airfare and two-night hotel accommodation in Kuwait. The company is also offering transit packages for airline passengers who face layovers at the country's airport. These packages include a sight-seeing tour, breakfast and visa arrangements. Najia said KTSC is the inbound operator while outbound tours are offered by its sister company, Kuwait Airways Holidays. He said the company also offers packages targeting the growing meetings and incentives sector. The packages are aimed at the European and GCC markets. KTSC was set up in 1997 by Kuwait Airways, the Kuwait Hotel Owners Association and the Touristic Enterprises Company. It is the organiser of the annual Hala February Festival which has attracted visitors from the Gulf, Europe, north America and Far East. As an inbound operator, KTSC provides complete ground handling arrangements through its experienced and professional team of multi-lingual tour guides, field representatives and marketing staff.