Maya enthralls ME

The 2nd edition of the Arabian Travel Awards was held at JW Marriott Deira, Dubai with presence of over 250 stalwarts

H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. The awards glittered through the night whilst dignitaries from consulates, travel, tourism and hospitality professionals attended to be recognised for their untiring efforts to place United Arab Emirates as the fourth most visited destination in the world. This year two great stalwarts who revolutionised the travel and tourism industry in the region were recognised for their efforts: Jamal Abdulnazar, CEO of Cozmo Travel, received the Gallery of Legends award whilst Nasir Jamal Khan, CEO Al Naboodah Travel, was recognised as the DDP Game Changer.

Arabian Travel Awards is a platform for the Middle East market to appreciate the efforts of the travel specialists who have contributed to the booming travel and hospitality industry. The aim is to encourage them to continue promoting tourism in the region especially as all roads are set and ready for the Expo 2020 and beyond.

Welcoming the guests at the event, SanJeet, Mentor, Arabian Travel Awards, said, “Our aim through the Arabian Travel Awards is to recognise and encourage the talent in some of the most important sectors such as travel, tourism and hospitality which contributes to the sustainable growth in the economy of the country. From the time we started out in this region over 15 years ago, we have seen the Middle East leapfrog to a much open-minded, tech savvy society yet thrive on the traditional value practices of the human elements which makes it a juxtaposition of two worlds meeting at a meaningful juncture. This year, we had over 25 countries submitting nearly 50,000 votes hence, we have nearly 60 awards to recognise the giants who have contributed to this country's economy.”