Amadeus reports steady growth in Syria

Amadeus Syria, a joint partnership between Amadeus and Syrian Arab Airlines, achieved a market share of over 70% in June after launching its direct operations in the country in January 2009.

Since it commenced operations, Amadeus has trained more than 1,000 travel consultants in Syria to be proficient in using the global distribution system (GDS) technology. The training allows the travel agents to benefit from Amadeus' vast portfolio of travel distribution solutions and have an easy access to exclusive airline content and preferred functionalities.

Taking into account the increasing demand from travel agents for better and efficient travel booking technology, Amadeus will soon introduce its internet booking, travel insurance, and back office solutions in Syria.

Commenting on training and the Amadeus expansion plans in Syria, Mazen Kokash, General Manager, Amadeus Syria, said

"Our half yearly growth has exceeded our targets and we see immense potential for further development. Our operations now include full-fledged offices in Damascus and Aleppo where we have a dedicated on-ground team who oversee and support our partners across Syria."

In recent years, Syria has been making inroads in promoting itself as a popular destination for cultural and religious tourism and attracting visitors from across the globe. Furthermore, new investment opportunities and tourism initiatives backed by the government have earned the interest of international players to the market.

"Our aim is to support this growth by offering our global technology with local expertise to the travel sector in Syria and further drive the economy to be on par with established markets in the region," added Mazen.