MALT Congress 2025 : Resounding Success for Incentive, Business and Luxury Travel from the Middle East
The MALT Congress 2025 attracted top-level travel and hospitality stakeholders, including global travel suppliers, top-tier travel agencies, corporate travel heads, and luxury concierge services. The event's meticulously curated one-on-one meetings fostered meaningful business connections and delivered tangible outcomes for participants, in addition to sharing the latest insights on the dynamic travel landscape from the region.
Speaking on the emerging trends in the GCC travel market, Mr. Kanoo – Chairman of Advisory Board emphasized the rapid transformation taking place in the region:
'The travel industry in the GCC is undergoing significant change, driven by dynamic growth in markets such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and the UAE. Travelers today are seeking more personalized engagement, luxury experiences, and immediate service delivery. From resorts and airlines to ground transportation, the entire ecosystem must adapt to meet these evolving expectations. The demand for luxury is clear, customers want to feel valued and attended to, and they expect convenience at every step. The challenge and opportunity for the industry lie in not only meeting these expectations but exceeding them, creating experiences that keep travelers coming back for more.'
Board member Anil Chandirani who is Group President of Satguru Travels and on the MALT, Board remarked on the growing interest in travel. The Founder of the 35-year-old travel conglomerate with operations across 80 countries said, 'Travel has changed and grown. People are exploring more and more. They are being adventurous with travel destinations, looking for upgrades ', Satguru Travels is a full-fledged agency that owns the travel portal Travel Wings and has recently acquired Orient Tours as well as Trav Trips , a pure holiday organizing company. Mr. Chandirani said the market has grown for both economy and luxury travel. Demand in all segments of the market has increased, even for business travel related to MICE.
With over a decade of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Mr. Nasir Jamal Khan, CEO of Al Naboodah Travel & Tourism Agencies LLC and MALT Board members emphasized the value of networking at key events, saying, 'I consider myself lucky that I never missed all these events; this is my 13th year.' He highlighted the rapid recovery post-COVID in the region, noting, 'We recovered the business volumes at the level of 2019 much earlier than expected.'
Mr. Nasir also observed the rise of online bookings in markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, stating, 'Online business has grown tremendously: Saudi Arabia has 75% penetration, and UAE has almost the same trend.' Despite this, he stressed the continued importance of travel agents for personalized support, especially for cancellations and refunds: 'People are now coming back to the travel agent to buy services – they appreciate having a responsible person who can address their queries and concerns.'
He noted the increasing popularity of luxury travel and shorter holiday durations, with travelers seeking more control over their plans: 'Luxury travel has picked up a lot after COVID. People are booking shorter holidays.' Lastly, he commented on rising costs in the industry, adding, 'Airline fares are going up, hotel rates are up, but the occupancy rate is 95%.'. Travel is here to stay despite higher costs.
Mohamed Islam Salama, Senior Regional Director Client Executive EMEA, CWT from Egypt and Board member, MALT highlighted the increasing role of technology in travel and tourism. ' In our company we have lots of training on how to generate savings by using AI and it's a very sensitive subject, managed as such. As an American company we are very aware about protecting passenger information and not exposing it to an open environment like AI. We are also focused on sustainability and developing sophisticated techniques to measure the carbon footprint of travelers to meetings and events. '
The discussions flourished under the guidance of some of the most influential and visionary leaders in the industry, whose expertise and forward-thinking perspectives continue to shape the future of travel. Advisory Board members shared invaluable insights on evolving travel trends, market recovery, technological advancements, and sustainability, offering a roadmap for innovation and growth in the ever-changing landscape.
Chris Flynn Executive Chairman of World Tourism Association for Culture & Heritage had a varied perspective on luxury travel. He said, ' We work with governments on how to build a better policy. Success of a destination should not be based on volume but on attracting the right type of tourist who will value the experience and respect your culture. When the right profile of traveler is attracted for the right reasons in optimum numbers, the impact on the industry and host country are excellent. '
The Congress concluded with the 8th Annual MALT Excellence Awards, celebrating industry visionaries and recognizing excellence across various categories: Best Corporate Travel Strategy of the Year: Caesars Travel Group
MICE Innovator of the Year: Luxotic Events
Best Incentive Program in an International Destination (Shared): Ali Bin Ali International Travel & Tourism W.L.L Mice Minds (an ITL World Company)
MICE & Travel Team of the Year: Al Hashar Tourism and Travels LLC
TMC of the Year – MICE: CWT Meetings & Events
TMC of the Year – Luxury: Travel Counsellors UAE
TMC of the Year: Cozmo Travel
Industry Icon Award: Alaa Al Ali from Nirvana
Rising Star of the Year Award: Kamal Kabsha from NAS, Kuwait
Corporate Event of the Year: MCI Middle East LLC
Women Leader of the Year: Aga Al Khatib
Travel Procurement Leader of the Year: Eng. Saud Al Namshan
Elite Luxury Travel Designer/Planner of the Year: Royal Class Travel & Tourism
Outstanding Destination Wedding of the Year: TA Weddings and Events
Hall of Fame Award (Lifetime Achievement Award): Mr. Mishal Kanoo
Wrapping up the remarkable success of the 13th Annual Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, Mr. Sidh N.C., Director of QnA International reiterated the location of the MALT 2025 Congress. ' Abu Dhabi is a perfect location for this Congress. We are overwhelmed with the response .'
' The whole concept of MICE and Meetings and Luxury Travel is evolving in the Middle East. Middle Eastern travellers used to have a standard pattern of traveling to certain specific location and not go anywhere else. But it's changing because luxury is no longer about glitz and glam. Or VIP service, it's about connecting with nature. It's about sustainability. It's about all they want is just to unwind . It's different things to different people. We are looking forward to setting the trend year after year .' he added.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
See - Sada Elbalad
5 hours ago
- See - Sada Elbalad
U.S. State Department Approves Sale of Advanced Air Defense Systems to Strengthen Egypt's Security
Nada Mustafa The U.S. Department of State has approved a major defense agreement with Egypt to provide advanced air defense systems, reaffirming the United States' commitment to its partnership with Egypt during a time of heightened regional security. This deal, once approved by Congress, will include cutting-edge radar systems, missiles, and other equipment designed to protect Egypt from aerial threats and enhance the country's overall security. This agreement is vital for Egyptians as it directly strengthens the country's ability to safeguard its people and maintain stability in the face of growing regional challenges. By equipping Egypt's military with the latest technology, the partnership ensures safer skies, reducing risks that could disrupt daily life or endanger communities. At a time when regional instability can affect everything from economic growth to personal safety, this collaboration provides a more secure environment for families, businesses, and future generations. The United States and Egypt have a long history of working together to address shared challenges, and this partnership highlights the strong bond between the two nations. As Egypt bolsters its defenses, this agreement reflects a shared commitment to building a safer and more prosperous future for Egyptians and Americans alike, while contributing to peace and stability across the Middle East. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language
Al-Ahram Weekly
12 hours ago
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Russia starts direct flights to North Korea - International
Russia on Sunday began direct commercial flights to North Korea, in a further sign of closer ties with its Asian ally helping its offensive in Ukraine. The first Moscow-Pyongyang flight, operated by Nordwind Airlines, was scheduled to take off at 1600 GMT and land in the North Korean capital some eight hours later, according to the carrier's website. Nordwind Airlines, a company that used to serve holiday destinations in Europe before the EU imposed a ban on Russian flights, had tickets priced at 45,000 rubles ($570). Russia's state news agency TASS reported that the first flight going the other way, from Pyongyang to Moscow, would take place on Tuesday. Russia's transport ministry said the route would be serviced once a month. Russia and North Korea restored train links on June 17 after suspending them in 2020 during the Covid pandemic. The two countries have been forging closer military bonds in recent years, with Pyongyang supplying troops and weapons for Russia to use in its military operations in Ukraine. They signed a mutual defence pact last year, when Russian President Vladimir Putin visited North Korea. North Korea confirmed for the first time in April that it had deployed a contingent of its soldiers to the frontline in Ukraine, alongside Russian troops. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
See - Sada Elbalad
3 days ago
- See - Sada Elbalad
Central Banks Show No Sign of Slowing Their Rush to Gold as Geopolitical Tensions Intensify Amid Trump's Policies
Waleed Farouk Central banks around the world show no indication of slowing down their push into gold, as the political and economic turmoil resulting from former U.S. President Donald Trump's foreign policies continues to fuel demand for the precious metal. According to a research report by global investment firm Invesco, central banks are steadily expanding their gold holdings, with nearly 50% of monetary authorities planning to increase their gold allocations over the next three years. 'Amid rising uncertainty and limited currency diversification options, gold has re-emerged as a fundamental pillar for enhancing reserve resilience,' said Rod Ringrow, Head of Official Institutions at Invesco. 'Gold is valued not just for its traditional role as a safe haven, but also for its political neutrality — a critical factor as geopolitical risks rise,' he added. Trump's presidency triggered widespread volatility in financial markets. His announcement of 'Liberation Day' tariffs on April 2 had a sharp negative impact on investor sentiment. U.S. stock markets recorded their worst week since the COVID-19 crash, while Asian stocks suffered their steepest declines in decades. Commenting on current market risks, JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon stated during the bank's quarterly earnings release last week: 'Significant risks remain — including tariffs and trade uncertainty, worsening geopolitical conditions, high fiscal deficits, and inflated asset prices.' Invesco's 13th edition of its Global Sovereign Asset Management Study (49 pages) quoted a central banker from Latin America as saying: 'Gold is a diversifier, but it is also a form of protection — a backstop when all else fails.' The study's findings align with a June survey conducted by the World Gold Council, which polled 72 central banks. It showed a record number of respondents expecting to increase their gold holdings over the next 12 months, with 43% indicating plans to boost reserves — up from 29% the previous year. Shaokai Fan, Head of Central Banks at the World Gold Council, said: 'Western countries have stopped selling gold, while emerging markets are accelerating purchases, aiming to catch up and build larger reserves.' Speaking specifically about 2024, Fan described central bank demand for gold as 'insatiable,' noting that purchases had exceeded 1,000 metric tons for the third year in a row. Central banks have become one of the primary forces driving the ongoing gold bull market, which has seen prices double since late 2022 — a trend that accelerated following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. read more CBE: Deposits in Local Currency Hit EGP 5.25 Trillion Morocco Plans to Spend $1 Billion to Mitigate Drought Effect Gov't Approves Final Version of State Ownership Policy Document Egypt's Economy Expected to Grow 5% by the end of 2022/23- Minister Qatar Agrees to Supply Germany with LNG for 15 Years Business Oil Prices Descend amid Anticipation of Additional US Strategic Petroleum Reserves Business Suez Canal Records $704 Million, Historically Highest Monthly Revenue Business Egypt's Stock Exchange Earns EGP 4.9 Billion on Tuesday Business Wheat delivery season commences on April 15 News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks
