Focus will be on selling packages to Dubai Dubai - Arab Today Emirates Holidays, the tour operating arm of Emirates has established its first global franchise, Emirates Vacations. It follows the appointment of the US-based Destination Southern Africa Inc. (DSA Vacations) as its partner. The five-year franchise agreement will help Emirates Holidays tap into the U.S. market, while leveraging DSA’s local expertise and market intelligence. DSA will distribute vacation packages to Dubai and other popular destinations such as the Indian Ocean Islands, India, Italy and Thailand. “With Emirates’ successful operations in the U.S. serving seven gateways, we have access to a significant market of global travellers many of whom are already considering destinations served by the airline’s network,” said Thierry Antinori – Emirates executive vice president and chief commercial officer. “Working closely with Emirates, there is tremendous potential for Emirates Vacations to reach a wider customer base and adopt a more holistic approach to the business – where the airline can and be a part of the customer’s entire travel experience. “As the first international franchise of Emirates Holidays, Emirates Vacations reinforces our commitment to build on our commercial strength in the U.S.” DSA/Emirates Vacations president and CEO, Terry von Guilleaume said his company had “recognised the need to provide US travellers with an exceptional vacation experience”. “We are proud to align ourselves with a global brand like Emirates to deliver the best value for money on a wide array of exciting destinations,” he continued. “We are excited to bring this opportunity to both the trade and the consumer, as well as maintain and grow the relationships with Emirates Holidays and the properties and partners they serve.” Emirates Vacations will focus primarily on selling one-week to two-week vacations to Dubai. This will then extend to vacation packages beyond Dubai, with stop-overs, multi-centre packages and high-end adventure holidays across Emirates’ global destinations. Source: Travel Daily