One of Bahrain’s top travel industry pioneers has predicted a bright future, with expansion into ‘new territories’ being the need of the hour.
Unitag Group chairman and chief executive Jamil Wafa also said he was encouraged by the way the industry was developing.
He was speaking at the opening of the Magnum Travel Services offices at the Bahrain Financial Harbour, to meet the needs of corporate clients in the complex.
“We had a reason to move in here because we are now a certified International Air Transport Association (Iata) business partner,” said Mr Wafa.
“Now, we not only comply with strict IATA rules that govern travel agents, we are also helping address the travel needs of several of Bahrain’s leading businesses.”
He said he hoped the new business would be a ‘stepping stone’ for future expansion for the company.
Magnum Travel Services is a fully-owned subsidiary of World Travel Service, part of the Unitag Group which also includes Magnum Event and Exhibitions Management, which organises the annual Bahrain International Travel Expo (BITE).
Association of Bahrain Tour and Travel Agents chairman Sofyan Almoayed said agents were looking at contributing to a ‘complete renovation’ of the country’s tourism sector.
“Our representatives have already met top officials at the Culture and Information Ministry to help organise the sector,” he said.
“We are encouraged with the response we have received so far and are excited to be able to help.
“The travel industry in Bahrain is gearing up to help this very vital sector become top class.”
Almoayed paid tribute to Wafa, saying the opening of the new offices is proof the travel industry is going forward.
“We are alive and well and progressing. There are exciting times ahead,” he said.