Sabre Travel Network Middle East, a technology company serving travel agencies and suppliers, said it has extended its fare-distribution agreement with Saudia Arabian Airlines.

The agreement means more than 350,000 travel agents connected to Sabre will be guaranteed access to Saudia’s seats and fare classes, said a company statement.

Saudia has also chosen to upgrade its level of connectivity with Sabre, giving traditional and online travel agencies improved access to fares and inventory, and helping drive its international expansion.

Commenting on the deal, Daniel Naoumovitch, Sabre chief executive, said Saudia joins the many global airlines in recognising Sabre as an important source of revenue and growth.

"As host to SkyTeam carriers including Aeroflot, AeroMexico and Vietnam Airlines, Sabre has the knowledge and experience to power Saudia’s successful entry into the alliance. This deal, which includes future use of EMD and improved connectivity, gives our customers greater choice and content throughout Saudi Arabia and global regions."

Abdul Mohsen M Jonaid, Saudia’s VP for passenger sales, said: "Saudia recognises the value of Sabre GDS and its innovative leadership in helping airlines market and sell their products to millions of travellers worldwide."

"As we are on the verge of completing entry to the SkyTeam alliance, the extended agreement to distribute fares through Sabre is an important part of our international growth strategy," he noted.

“Working with Sabre is vital for business in our domestic market, and gives us a global reach that will help drive our business to the next level,” he added.

Saudia joins a growing list of more than 400 airlines that have chosen the GDS to sell to travel agencies. Sabre recently announced agreements with Egyptair and VIM Avia.-TradeArabia News Service