Tourism Seychelles and Emirates, the premier airline in the United Arab Emirates, have once again reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing tourism flows throughout the extensive network of the esteemed airline. This dedication was underscored by the renewal of their strategic partnership at the renowned Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, convened from May 6th to May 9th, 2024.
During the event, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked by Mr. Ahmed Khoory, Emirates’ Senior Vice President Commercial – West Asia & Indian Ocean, and Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary of the Tourism Department for Tourism Seychelles.
This significant moment took place in the presence of Mr. Sylvestre Radegonde, Seychelles Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, and Mr. Nabil Sultan, Emirates’ Executive Vice President for Passenger Sales and Country Management. Additionally, attendees included Ambassador Gervais Moumou, Seychelles’ resident Ambassador in Abu Dhabi, Bernadette Willemin, Director General for Destination Marketing, and Mr. Ahmed Fathallah, Tourism Seychelles’ Middle East representative.
At the event, Minister Radegonde highlighted Emirates’ crucial role as a key ally, noting its significant market share in the industry. He thanked Emirates for their enduring partnership, recognising its positive impact on Seychelles’ visibility and accessibility. The Minister also expressed excitement for future collaborations, aiming to use Emirates’ expertise to boost Seychelles’ global tourism reputation.
“Emirates’ presence enables us to showcase Seychelles’ unparalleled beauty, rich culture, and diverse attractions to a vast international audience. Simultaneously, their operations facilitate the influx of visitors, contributing to the growth and prosperity of our tourism sector. As we reflect on the partnership with Emirates, we recognise the invaluable impact it has had on our destination’s visibility and accessibility. We are delighted that this agreement remains,” stated Minister Radegonde.
Emirates has reiterated its unwavering support for Tourism Seychelles, aiming to bolster the island nation’s endeavours in promoting tourism and trade. The newly established agreement delineates a range of mutually beneficial initiatives aimed at enhancing trade and tourism, including participation in trade shows, familiarisation trips, exhibitions, and workshops.
Furthermore, Emirates has committed to assisting travel agents and tour operators in key strategic markets, empowering them to effectively promote Seychelles as a premier leisure destination. This commitment entails the development of tailored holiday packages, provision of incentives, marketing support, and organisation of familiarisation trips aimed at showcasing Seychelles’ allure to a global clientele.
During the signing, Mrs. Sherin Francis, the Principal Secretary for Tourism, expressed, “The renewal of the partnership is a testament of our shared vision and commitment to continuously work together to promote the destination and further develop the route. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Emirates for its continuous support.”
Commenting on the airline’s commitment to promoting Seychelles to its customer base, Ahmed Khoory said, “Seychelles is a key leisure destination in our network that we have proudly been operating in since 2005. Our partnership aimed at promoting tourism to the nation goes back to 2013, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting its tourism industry. Seychelles is a tourist destination which is highly popular amongst travellers from key markets in our network, and we are proud to play a role in driving traffic flows to the island through our efforts.”
With only a 4-hour flight from Dubai to Seychelles, Emirates provides seamless connectivity to this idyllic Indian Ocean destination. Operating a double daily flight, Emirates serves as a vital link, connecting travellers from around the globe to the enchanting paradise of Seychelles. As the partnership between Emirates and Seychelles continues to flourish, it not only enhances tourism but also strengthens the bonds between nations, fostering cultural exchange and economic growth.
