Dubai, 7 May 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and dnata Travel Group, a global leader in travel services, have signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement with the aim of enhancing tourism to Thailand.
The agreement was signed by Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, and Mr. John Bevan, CEO of the dnata Travel Group at a ceremony held on 6 May 2024 at the Thailand Pavilion during the Arabian Travel Market 2024 in Dubai, UAE.
Also present were Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, and Mr. Rashid Al Awadhi, Senior Vice President – Middle East and India at the dnata Travel Group, along with other officials from both organisations.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “Through this agreement with the dnata Travel Group, our goal is to collectively implement the most effective strategies and practices to expand Thailand’s marketing presence and establish it as a ‘Quality Leisure Destination.’ This initiative emphasizes enhancing Thailand’s reputation as a unique leisure destination that offers unparalleled quality and value.
“We aim to achieve a balance between tourism growth and its social and environmental implications by crafting ‘value-added experiences’ and ensuring harmony between revenue generation, community engagement, and environmental conservation.”
The partnership seeks to leverage dnata’s extensive global network, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, to drive increased tourist arrivals from the Middle East to Thailand. By focusing on key niche markets and promoting quality leisure destinations within the kingdom, both TAT and dnata aim to enhance Thailand’s appeal and attract discerning travellers.
Under the Strategic Partnership Agreement, TAT and dnata will collaborate on a series of joint promotions tailored to elevate Thailand’s tourism profile across the GCC countries, including the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. These promotions will target niche tourism segments such as sports, luxury, honeymoon, and wellness, offering tailored experiences to travellers seeking unique and memorable vacations.
Mr. John Bevan, CEO, dnata Travel Group, said “The focus on high-value niche markets aligns with dnata’s strategy to attract visitors who seek premium experiences and are willing to invest in unique products and services. I believe that the partnership between TAT and dnata Travel Group marks a significant milestone in the efforts to enhance tourism to Thailand and underscores the commitment of both organizations to deliver exceptional travel experiences to visitors from the Middle East and beyond.”