Destinia re-launches in Middle East
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Destinia.com has re-launched its services in the Middle East focusing on the GCC traveller. Some of the key developments included setting up of a sales office in Dubai after launch of the Cairo office.
The services offered to GCC travellers include a Google glass reservation app, bitcoin payment and a soon to be launched ‘payment on delivery’ facility. This facility will be rolled out by December 2014.
The company is very optimistic about its growth and hopes for double digit growth in the next three years. In 2013, sales for Middle East increased by 46%, representing 20% of the company’s overall sales. During 2014, the company witnessed double digit growth from the Middle East with sales increasing by 120%. Future forecasts suggest that the MENA region will represent around 30% of the company’s overall sales in next three years.
“E-commerce is a growing industry in the Middle East,” said Amuda Goueli, CEO and co-founder of Destinia.com. “The Middle East market is experiencing considerable growth and is estimated to reach US$15 billion in 2015, according to PayPal. More money is spent on travel than on any other online purchase in the region and there is currently no strong local online travel agency,” he added.
The ‘pay from home’ concept was launched post a survey which showed that almost 80% of local buyers prefer a ‘cash on delivery’ payment method. Currently, the company is firming up agreements with local tour operators to offer products suited to local tastes.
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