Seychelles and Emirates Holidays plunge into Dive Middle East Exhibition

Seychelles moved to continue to increase its visibility campaign in the Middle East through a joint cooperation between the Seychelles Tourism Offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and Emirates Holidays. The islands put a strong presence at the recent Dubai International Boat Show from March 5-9, 2013 under the Dive Middle East Exhibition pavilion.

This event is held in association with Emirates Diving Association (EDA); the Dive Middle East Exhibition celebrated its 7th edition this year. The 5-day event engaged the island’s delegation in promoting the Seychelles, not only as a holiday destination, but also one where visitors can indulge in diving, sailing, and fishing. A huge number of potential holiday makers visited the Seychelles stand and showed their interest to travel this year. Their enthusiasm was spurred by both what the Seychelles has to offer, as well as the amazing deals by Emirates Holidays. On offer during the show was an AED 5,126 package for a 3-night stay in Seychelles inclusive of the airfare, hotel, and private transfers on breakfast basis, and this special Seychelles package with Emirates Holidays remains valid until April 30, 2013.

A number of high-profile clients from different parts of the world who were seen at the show visited the Seychelles stand to recount their unforgettable experiences in the islands and the beauty of Seychelles.

“The Seychelles Tourism Board Middle East has confirmed that they have witnessed a substantial growth this year with 37% increase from January to Febebruary 2013 compared to the same period last year. With the continuous presence of Seychelles on this targeted event we are optimistic that we will achieve our goal this year to receive 22,500 visitors,” says Ahmed Fathallah, Regional Manager, Seychelles Tourism Office, Middle East.

“The Seychelles Tourism Board’s aim in participating in this event is to continue to increase awareness of the impressive diving, fishing, yachting, and sailing opportunities that the Seychelles can offer. The Middle East remains a lucrative market for Seychelles, and we will continue to increase the visibility of Seychelles to strengthen its position,” says Aliette Esther, Tourism Attache, Seychelles Tourism Board’s, Abu Dhabi Office.

Seychelles is a founding member of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP).

PHOTO (Group, L to R): Rajinder Adikaritileke, Sr. Sales Executive, Emirates Holidays; Reema Al Abbas, Project Manager, EDA; Milanie Manalo, Sr. Marketing Executive, Seychelles Tourism Board Middle East; Aliette Esther, Seychelles Tourism Board Abu Dhabi Office; and Ibrahim Al Zu’bi, Executive Director, EDA