TravTalk Middle East Online Magazine
Wego’s recent partnerships and new innovative travel technology tools serve travellers around the globe. Mamoun Hmedan, Managing Director, Wego Middle East, North Africa and India enlists their plans.
Q Why did Wego chose Dubai as its second headquarter?
Wego was founded in Singapore but is now dual-headquartered in Dubai and Singapore – it made sense to establish Dubai as the centre of our commercial operations and we have placed our Business Development, Commercial Flights & Hotels Partnerships and Marketing in Dubai to reflect our market growth. Singapore remains headquarters for the APAC market, and home to our talented Product, Design, Engineering and Data Science teams which continues taking the lead in product innovation and development.
Q How will this help MENA travellers?
Wego’s strength has always been to ensure that travellers have access to the greatest choice of both local and international travel suppliers. We continue to build partnerships with local and global suppliers to deliver a dedicated service to MENA travellers. Also, as the largest travel marketplace in the region, we know MENA travellers best. Our relationships locally only delivers greater benefit to our users because we understand their unique needs when it comes to travel.
Q How did Wego bring travellers closer to travel booking sites?
Wego partners with both airlines and hotels directly, and also to online travel agents (OTAs). OTAs are growing in the region, while big global players are also partners of Wego. Each has a different set of commercials and deals on offer, which is why travellers need a comprehensive snapshot of, for instance, one hotel room which can sometimes be up to $40 per night for the same booking dates. Once a traveller finds the best airfare or hotel rate to suit their budget they are directed to the travel supplier to make their purchase. With travel costs changing consistently online, it’s reassuring that you’ve done your homework and got the best possible deal.
Q What are the new partnerships undertaken by Wego?
We’re in active discussion with new airlines in the region to ensure their presence on Wego which will gives users the opportunity to compare direct airline fares with the OTAs, and provide greater choice for travellers. We’re also working closely with regional and global NTOs to deliver a greater depth of destination information along with promotional offers, especially new destinations they may not have previously considered. In addition, our strategic partnership with MBC will support our ability to reach a greater number of travellers in the region with activities designed to inform, educate and inspire.
