Dnata, a major air services provider based in Dubai, UAE, has signed an agreement to purchase the entire issued share capital of Stella Travel Services, one of UK’s leading travel businesses.

Stella Travel Services' brands include: TravelBag, Travel2, Sunmaster, Global Travel Group and Triton Rooms.

Danata is part of the Emirates Group, which also includes the Emirates airline.

Stella Travel Services is the trading name for Stella Global UK Limited, STS UK Holdco II Limited and a number of associated subsidiaries.

Iain Andrew, divisional senior vice president of dnata’s travel business, said: "The addition of Stella Travel Services to the dnata portfolio enhances our offering to customers and the travel trade, strengthening our position as a global company.”

“The partnership between Stella Travel Services and dnata will accelerate the growth of two global brands,” said Andrew Botterill, chief executive officer, Stella Travel Services. “dnata is a growing, diverse group, able to support our long-term ambitions. Destinations in the Middle East and Indian Ocean have driven our strong growth for our company in recent years. dnata's expertise in these regions will help continue this trend for years to come.”

Based in Chester, UK, Stella Travel Services and its brands cover key segments of the UK travel market with its retail, franchise, wholesale, online and call centre capabilities. Last year, the UAE was the company’s most popular selling destination, the partnership with dnata—and its experience in the country—will support continued tourism growth for the region, and improves dnata’s total purchasing power.

“The combined strength of Stella Travel Services, its brands and our group will deliver considerable benefits for our customers and suppliers,” added Andrew.

The completion of the acquisition remains subject to merger control clearance, dnata and Stella Travel Services will continue to operate independently pending completion of the acquisition. – TradeArabia News Service