Ian McDougal appointed to strengthen Emirates Holidays' operations in the UAE

McDougal will be responsible for delivering Emirates Holidays' aggressive targets for passenger numbers and profitability in the UAE. His remit covers all commercial activity and service standards within the region and will encompass the retail, groups and incentives divisions of Emirates Holidays.

McDougal joins Emirates Holidays having worked in the destination marketing field for over 25 years. He has held management positions in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore within Tourism Australia, Canberra Tourism Commission and, most recently, Tourism Victoria. McDougal has also been a guest lecturer on travel and tourism at numerous colleges and universities in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Kuwait and the UAE.

The appointment is with immediate effect.

John Felix, Senior Vice President for Emirates Holidays said: "Emirates Holidays is the largest tour operator in the Gulf and Middle East, but that does not stop us from having ambitious plans for growth in this region. With his proven knowledge of the tourism industry, and dedication to delivering success for the business, Ian will help to strengthen Emirates Holidays' position as the leading tour operator in the UAE."

McDougal will report directly to Dina Al Herais, Emirates Holidays' Vice President Commercial Operations.

Al Herais commented: "Ian joins the team at a very exciting time for tourism in the UAE. We are privileged to have such a well regarded figure joining us from the destination marketing field."

McDougal said: "I am delighted to be joining such a successful organisation within a rapidly developing market. I believe that my solid destination sales and marketing background will complement the multitude of skills that already exist within the Emirates Holidays team. My objective is to help the team meet, and then surpass, the aggressive targets set for the years ahead."