Skal International, the international association of travel and tourism professionals, has opened a Dubai chapter.

The Skal International, UAE Club, Dubai chapter, has opened with 20 founding members representing some of the major names in the local travel industry.

The chapter was recently given the go-ahead by the international club's executive committee, said its secretary Kim Thomson.

The founding members are: Ghassan Aridi, Alpha Tours, president; Mohammed Al Geziry, Mohammed Al Gerziry Consultants, vice president; Mousaa El Hayek, Al Bustan Hotel & Residence, vice president; Kim Thomson, Travel & Tourism News/Al Hilal Group, secretary; Houssam Tantawi, Dubai World Trade Centre, treasurer; Ahmed Al Hamli, Fast Rent A Car; Alan Massouh, Hyatt Hotel; Ali Z A A Monassar, Net Tours; MC Mani, Royal Park Tourism; Chris G Anns, Danat Dubai Cruises; Fadi Michel Mazkour, Alpha Tours; Gamal Fathy, Gulf Dunes; George Mikhael Moussa, Planet Tours; Habib Khan, Four Points Sheraton; Karen Hardcastle, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi; Mohammed bin Hareb; Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing; Osama Boushra, Travco; Peter R Blott, National Car Rental; Samir Tabbah, Desert Adventures Tourism; Ossama Wagdi, Gullivers Travel.

Travel and tourism industry professionals keen to join the club should contact Kim Thomson on 050 551 0170 or any of the founding members.