A total of 120 of the UK’s top specialist travel companies attended the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) annual conference hosted by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) from November 22 to 25.

The conference introduced the tour operators to destinations in the UAE’s northern Emirate as well as the region’s diverse and spectacular offering. The Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) is an umbrella organisation that represents Britain's best independent tour operators.

Haitham Mattar, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority said: “The UK has held its position as one of the top four key source markets for Ras Al Khaimah Tourism over the past few years and continues to show huge potential for further growth. In the first ten months of 2018, Ras al Khaimah saw visitors from the UK increase by 11 per cent over the previous year. RAKTDA aims to increase the number of UK visitors in 2019 by 20 per cent through increased marketing and trade partnerships.”

AITO chairman, Derek Moore, commented: “We’re thrilled to have been invited by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourist Development Authority (RAKTDA). It has been particularly exciting for AITO members to visit such a fascinating destination that is on the cusp of change in terms of tourism.”

Chair of AITO Specialist Travel Agents, Gemma Antrobus, said: “This is a destination with enormous potential for AITO Specialist Travel Agents, who are always on the lookout for somewhere a little different from the mainstream. It offers the perfect balance of beach, activity, history and culture, providing the variety that many of our discerning clients seek and that AITO Agents enjoy selling!” – TradeArabia News Service