KSA travel trade gains from digital technology

The Amadeus Exhibition for Technology kicked off at the Jeddah Hilton, displaying state-of-the-art products and technological solutions for Saudi travel and tourism.
Amadeus CEO Nashaat Al Bukhari, an IT expert, said 70 percent of the sector needs to apply technology to its businesses because the remaining 30 percent saved up to 15 percent of their cost, increased their profits by 15 percent and provided good quality services for their clientele.
The exhibition showcased IT services, Internet, iPads, smartphones and special system technologies which allow staff to make online bookings and ticket issuances, which save the company time and money.
Bukhari said the use of modern technologies contributed to the overall look of companies’ operations, providing outstanding travel services for clients, including accommodation, transportation, guided tours and travel insurance.
He said the Saudi airline’s use of digital technology contributed to greater control over reservation systems, available seats and prices but that the company still needs to employ more of this kind of technology.
The use of these technological means by Saudi airlines came as a result of its need to keep up with rapid technological development.
It has worked hard to to employ state-of-the-art technology found in the new 777 fleet of Saudi planes, which offer entertainment, communication and Internet.
Bukhari said the idea of using digital technology was initially refused by certain travel agents, but they soon embraced the new technology that rapidly enhanced the development of this sector.
Among these technologies is a program called “one press”, which is now applied by many travel agents to reach their clients and warn them about any upcoming natural disasters or political problems in countries they are visiting and secure their return to solve whatever problems they are facing.
He added: “Thanks to digital technology, Saudi tourists were reached and informed about their reservation changes during the Tsunami in Fukushima in Japan and assisted with their problems, in addition to securing their swift return.”
The Amadeus Exhibition for Technology displayed modern products and technology solutions designed to help the Saudi tourism sector to grow.
Top officials in the travel and tourism field attended together with Saudi Airlines, the Saudi Authority for Tourism and Archaeology, the Civil Aviation Authority and the Arab Union for Air Transport.