Travelport GDS announces new distributor relationship in Syria

    Dumped value of 'ID':
'181182';

Dumped value of 'images_loop':
[];

The partnership follows Travelport's announcement last year of a multi-million dollar (US) investment in the Middle East to set up its own direct operations to support travel agents in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt and to create new relationships with selected distributors in other countries, including Syria.

Over the past 17 years, Galileo has established itself as the leading GDS provider in the Middle East. The new direct partnership with Adhal and Khazem & Co began when Galileo's contract with its current distributor expired at the end of 2008. Adhal & Khazem & Co has now engaged Nebal Esmaeil, who previously held senior management positions in Syrian Arab Airlines, as General Manager to ensure the success of the distribution agreement.

'The partnership forged today marks an important milestone for Travelport as we put the final touches to our new operations in the region which went live on 1 January, 2009. With their extensive knowledge of the Syrian marketplace, Adhal and Khazem & Co will be ideally placed to help us serve our customers in this market,'

said Rabih Saab, Travelport GDS' Vice President for the Middle East.

'Galileo is the leading GDS system in the region and I am excited to be able to continue my relationship with Travelport and cement a solid partnership with Adhal and Khazem & Co,' stated Nebal Esmaeil on behalf of Adhal and Khazem & Co. 'The Partners of Adhal and Khazem & Co and I were also impressed by Travelport's commitment to Syria and its plans to continue to roll out new and innovative products in the region - Adhal and Khazem & Co looks forward to a long and successful partnership and to serving travel agents and suppliers who rely on the efficiency of Galileo.'

Over the past year, Travelport GDS has increased its presence in the Middle East with the acquisition of Worldspan, which has a well-established and successful business in several key markets and a wholly-owned operation in Egypt. Travelport GDS has also opened new offices in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt and strengthened its management team across the region.

'The Middle East is a dynamic region for travel and one which will continue to grow considerably over the coming years. We firmly believe that our relationship with Adhal & Khazem & Co will allow us to continue to augment our business in this important region,' continued Saab.