NEW and smaller travel agents are starting to take an interest in joining the Dubai Travel & Tour Agents Group (DTTAG).
They have realised that with issues such as increased bank guarantees from IATA and airlines as well as more stringent bye-law regulations, the DTTAG body is useful, according to Leo Fewtrell, general manager DTTAG.
“DTTAG is disseminating up to date information on such subjects via direct discussion with them as well as via the website and emails,” he said.
The organisation this year aims to improve travel agency standards in Dubai by advocating best practices, promoting co-operation between members of the travel trade within and outside the group and to act as arbitrators on behalf of various government bodies.
In addition, it aims to act as a negotiating body for group members for travel related business transactions.
The group currently has about 65 members. “We are currently issuing DTTAG certification as well as DTTAG stickers for the member travel agencies windows. This gives reassurance that the agency is a responsible supplier who is meeting standards that are open to challenge in the event of any failure in the transaction,” said Fewtrell.
Regarding the zero commission policy, he said, “We have given training to over 45 agents on how to overcome the adverse effects of zero commission. We have suggested numerous ways this can be turned into an advantageous opportunity to become more profitable as well as forge a transparent relationship with their clients.” n
