Visa launches programme of summer travel rewards across the region

Cardholders jetting off for a summer break this year can win the chance to travel around the world simply by using their Visa debit and credit cards abroad.

The promotion is open to Visa cardholders across the Middle East, and also offers a 5% discount for those travelers booking online.

Visa cardholders will automatically be entered into a draw for the three month promotion which starts on 1 June 2009 and lasts until 31 August 2009, when either using their Visa cards to pay for items or withdraw money from ATMs overseas or booking at any Dnata Travel or Holiday Lounge by Dnata outlet across the region.

There are seven around the world travel prizes to be won, each including the opportunity to slow down and experience a non-traditional form of travel. Adventurous winners can choose to enhance their trip with travel in a hot air balloon, on an elephant, by train or a boat cruise.

Commenting on the exclusive deals available to Visa and Dnata Holidays customers for summer 2009, Norliza Kassim, Head of Marketing, Middle East and North Africa for Visa, said:

"Despite the diverse profiles of GCC residents, we recognise among our customers an inherent interest in and desire to travel."

Visa's Traveler Study, Outbound Travelers (CEMEA Travelers), has revealed that 70% of travelers make their bookings through travel agents. Nathan Adams, Manager Dnata Holidays, commented: "Dnata Holidays is delighted to work in partnership with Visa to provide efficient and innovative travel solutions to meet the demands of the emerging outbound travel industry in the GCC."

Nathan Adams added: "One of Dnata Holidays' key strengths is being able to offer a wide variety of hotels and airlines for our customers to choose from. Thanks to our great value offers and partnership with Visa, customers will find they get some great value-added benefits when they book this summer using their Visa card."

"Visa continuously strives to enhance travel experiences by offering added value rewards to our cardholders . Visa is committed to helping cardholders get more value out of their holiday and experience the convenience and security of a Visa card," added Norliza Kassim.

To promote the summer travel offer, Visa is hosting a series of in mall activities in Dubai at key locations within Wafi Mall, Mercato Mall, The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence and Uptown Mirdiff where Visa cardholders have the chance to win a variety of UAE weekend breaks from Dnata.

With acceptance in more than 170 countries, Visa is an excellent travel companion for those exploring overseas.