Kanoo Travel and Desert Adventures Tourism form Joint Venture

May 4, 2023

GCC-based travel conglomerate Kanoo Travel and premium destination management company Desert Adventures Tourism have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a joint venture in Saudi Arabia at Arabian Travel Market 2023.

The collaboration brings together two of the largest and most reputable travel trade
organisations in the Middle East, aiming to create the most comprehensive
destination services company in the region. The joint venture marks a significant
milestone in both companies’ history as they combine their expertise, resources, and capabilities to provide travellers with unparalleled travel experiences in Saudi Arabia.

Desert Adventures Tourism, managed by Thomas Cook India Group and wholly
owned by Fairfax Financial Holdings Canada, has been a leading company and
partner of choice for many worldwide tour operators with 25 years of experience in
destination management in the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and Oman. The
company has developed a reputation for providing stability, consistency, and quality
of service that its partners have come to trust.

Kanoo Travel, an esteemed travel company with a legacy spanning over eight
decades, offers the most comprehensive and reliable travel solutions. With a focus
on corporate travel, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE), leisure
and holiday travel, airline representation, and marine travel, Kanoo Travel has
established itself as a leader in the travel industry. The company’s commitment to
delivering exceptional solutions and services has been consistently acknowledged,
resulting in numerous regional industry awards.

Peter Payet, CEO of Desert Adventures, expressed excitement about the new
venture, saying, "We are delighted to partner with Kanoo Travel to provide the most
comprehensive destination services in Saudi Arabia. With their extensive local
knowledge and resources and our international expertise, we are confident that this
joint venture will be successful and provide unparalleled service to our clients."
Mr. Ali Abdulla Kanoo, Deputy Chairman of Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo Company
Ltd., Saudi Arabia and Chairman of YBA Kanoo’s Strategic Business Unit for all
operating Divisions (Kanoo Energy, Kanoo Travel, Kanoo Logistics and Kanoo
Shipping), which covers the GCC region, added:

“Our partnership with Desert Adventures Tourism brings together our collective
expertise, industry knowledge, and innovative approach to deliver exceptional
solutions and services. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to
providing our clients with the best travel experiences and ensuring complete
satisfaction.”

The partnership between Desert Adventures and Kanoo Travel marks a significant
milestone in developing Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry, supporting the country’s ambitious Vision 2030 goals. By combining their expertise and resources, these two
companies are set to offer travellers from around the world an exceptional
experience rich in culture and hospitality. With a shared commitment to sustainability
and responsible tourism practices, Desert Adventures and Kanoo Travel are poised
to create new opportunities and drive growth in this dynamic sector. As Saudi
Arabi’s tourism industry continues to thrive, this partnership will undoubtedly play a
crucial role in shaping its bright and prosperous future.