MOBILE data transactions in the Middle East and North Africa region have been forecast to grow at a faster rate than other parts of the world.
Cisco predicts that the number of mobile devices in the region will hit 598 million by 2018, a far cry from 2013’s 133 million. The Internet is also emerging as a preferred mode of travel consumption in recent years with one out of every six consumers booking online, according to Cisco.
Kara Moddermann, industry manager – travel, Middle East & North Africa, Google, said during a seminar at ATM 2014: “Using mobile gadgets seems to be distinctively preferred by travellers in the region.”
Separately, PhoCusWright has reported that OTA sales in the Middle East crossed US$2.3 billion in 2013 and usage is expected to escalate by up to 17 per cent by end-2014.
Najeh Boughzala, project manager, Alpha Tours Dubai, said: “The online booking of flights and hotels is definitely on the rise and will continue to be so as comparison of prices to get the most competitive offer is relatively easy online. Moreover, youngsters like to search, find and often decide immediately. Handheld gadgets are very convenient for such decisions and purchases.”
“However, multi-destination tour booking and transfers are still booked through tour operators.”
