Talks ongoing for Dvo-UAE flights

MINDANAO Development Authority (Minda) chairperson Secretary Datu Hj. Abul Khayr Alonto said talks are underway for direct flights between Davao City and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

It was reported that Emirates, based in Dubai, and Etihad, based in Abu Dhabi are looking into launching flights between Davao City and Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

“They are working out direct flights to Davao,” Alonto said, adding that it is not only the UAE-based carrier who is interested in launching flights to Davao City but other carriers as well.

At present, Emirates is operating flights from its hub between Dubai and Cebu, Clark, and Manila while Etihad operates flights between Abu Dhabi and Manila.

“It is certainly a welcome development as it will open opportunities for us to serve the Middle Eastern tourists,” said Generose Tecson, head of the Davao City Tourism Operations Office.

For his part, Department of Tourism (DOT)Davao Regional Director Roberto Alabado III said this will provide Mindanaoans direct access to the Middle East without going to Manila.

Alabado also urged tourism establishments, like hotels and restaurants, to get a halal certification to be able to cater to Middle Eastern tourists. He also urged establishments here to embrace Halal tourism, which is becoming a lucrative market.

“We already have established our halal industry and a Davao City Halal Industry Development Council has been created

by Mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio through EO12,” Tecson said.

Meanwhile, Alonto said this development will compel the government to improve the airports in Mindanao to cater more international flights. He also emphasized that the development and modernization of the Francisco Bangoy International Airport should already start. He also said that a new airport in Davao should also be underway to cater to more international flights. RJL