TTN

In Brief

Share  

Arabian Adventures invests in Italy

ARABIAN Adventures has signed a partnership agreement with HTMS International, one of the largest general sales agents in Italy. Under the agreement, HTMS will promote and sell the UAE-based destination management company’s premium services in the Italian market.

Samir Mehta, general manager of Arabian Adventures, said: “We are delighted to increase our investment into our international operations with this strategic partnership. Today’s announcement underlines our commitment to the Italian market, where we see excellent business opportunities and solid demand for our quality services. We look forward to welcoming ever more Italian travellers in the UAE with the legendary Arabian hospitality we are renowned for.”

 

Russian visitor numbers to GCC soar

THE number of Russian tourists travelling to the GCC is expected to increase 125 per cent from 933,000 in 2018 to 2.1 million in 2023, according to data published ahead of Arabian Travel Market 2019, which takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre from April 28 to May 1, 2019.

Looking at the economic drivers, Russia’s links with the GCC have strengthened in recent years due to the introduction of additional airline routes; relaxed visa regulations for Russian nationals; the oil price recovery and stabling of value of the Russian rouble; a new generation of leisure attractions and retail destinations and a broad range of hotels and resorts across the GCC region.

Danielle Curtis, exhibition director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “Traditionally, the GCC has always been popular with Russian tourists. However, in 2015 the GCC experienced a large drop in the number of Russian visitors, which was a reflection of volatility in the financial and energy markets. As both factors continue to steady, we are once again witnessing a huge increase in Russian visitors and we expect this to continue.”

 

PATA Forum looks into the future of tourism

THE World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and the People’s Government of Guilin, China held the 12th UNWTO/PATA Forum on Tourism Trends and Outlook from October 25 to 27, 2018.

The 12th UNWTO/PATA Forum on Tourism Trends and Outlook drew more than 220 experts from 22 countries. This year’s edition - ‘The Future of Tourism: Road to 2030´, aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Digital advances provide opportunities to tourism in order to enhance inclusiveness, community empowerment and efficient resource management to achieve the SDGs. Yet to do so, we need to better understand where tourism is heading so we can adopt the adequate policies and business strategies.” said UNWTO executive director Shanzhong Zhu at the event.

International tourist arrivals in Asia and the Pacific grew by 6 per cent in 2017 to reach a total of 323 million. Rapid economic growth in emerging economy markets, rising air connectivity, more affordable travel and enhanced visa facilitation continue to fuel tourism from within and outside the region. China, the world´s top spender in international tourism and fourth largest destination, has been one of the main drivers behind this growth.

Furthermore, topics covered at the Forum included how digital advances and data can be used to support sustainable tourism for development. 

 

ITB Asia 2018 breaks exhibitor record

ITB Asia, ‘Asia’s Leading Travel Trade Show’, opened its doors at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. The three-day conference and exhibition ran from October 17 to 19, 2018.

Under the overarching theme, “Travel Reimagined”, top industry leaders will deliver insights on the key trends provoking disruption across the travel industry and how brands are innovating to stay competitive. The expected over 1,000 exhibitors and over 1,000 buyers will be able to appreciate the exciting exhibition event and conference programme, featuring the strongest line-up of exhibitors and speakers yet.

Spacer