Thomas Cook, an Indian travel agency and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have signed an MOU with Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) to promote awareness and increase visibility for Saudi in the high potential Indian market.
The partnership will leverage Thomas Cook India and SOTC’s diverse segments, including leisure and B-leisure, coupled with the companies’ unique omnichannel clicks & bricks model, significant size-scale and extensive retail presence pan India, portals, holidays apps, virtual holiday stores and call center.
Saudi is a hidden gem with a rich culture and heritage offering and an incredible breadth of exciting outdoor adventure experiences, amidst stunning, natural landscapes. The destination is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, untouched nature and rapidly evolving, dynamic entertainment offerings, grounded in the warmth of Saudi hospitality.
Rajeev Kale President & Country Head Leisure Travel & MICE Thomas Cook
“We are delighted to collaborate with Saudi Tourism Authority to create visibility and awareness for the destination. Our aim is to provide our customers with distinctive Saudi experiences that appeal to our diversity of segments from families, couples, millennial or young professionals to our B-leisure segments. Our unique omnichannel model is a significant advantage to this partnership, offering customers the choice and convenience of selecting their preferred mode of contacting, via our holiday app, virtual holiday store, website, call center or extensive retail network pan India.”
Mr. Alhasan Aldabbagh, Chief Markets Officer – APAC, STA said that “Saudi offers global travelers endless diversity, an opportunity to discover the unexplored and unexpected. From a rich cultural experience, pristine nature and stunning landscapes, a dynamic entertainment offering and welcoming and warm hospitality, Saudi has it all. This partnership with Thomas Cook and SOTC is critical in helping us achieve our ambitious tourism goals, unlocking growth opportunities, for our partners, as we increase destination awareness, develop products and drive inbound visitation amongst the Indian traveler.”
The MoU will collaborate on content curation, product development and a joint marketing campaign across media platforms. Thomas Cook India and SOTC’s product portfolio will extend across ready-to-book holidays and personalized programs across value tours, affordable luxury and premium holidays.
“Traveler preferences have evolved into the new normal and our data indicates strong consumer interest for new or untapped destinations and Saudi hence offers exciting potential! Historically known for its rich culture, heritage and cuisine, this hidden gem offers unique facets like thrilling outdoor or adventure activities such as diving, snorkeling, biking, hiking and yachting, also its multitude of UNESCO World Heritage sites. We look forward to an enriching partnership as we unveil the beauty and depth of Saudi,” Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel said.
