dnata hosts more than 100 travel trade professionals in Oman

Sign up to our newsletters

Stay informed with the
latest news and analysis

REGISTER

عربي

You are viewing 1 of your 2 free articles

Opulence by Ahlan Arabia in Salalah, Oman

More than 100 travel trade professionals gathered in Oman from 13-16 January for the second edition of Opulence by Ahlan Arabia, dnata Representation Services’ annual luxury travel roadshow. The 2026 event, which followed the successful debut edition held in Qatar last year, explores emerging travel trends and fosters new opportunities for growth.

Taking place at Alila Hinu Bay Resort in Salalah, a coastal city in the far south of the sultanate, this year’s edition welcomed 55 senior buyers from across the GCC, alongside teams from the dnata Travel Group and its global partners, including destination leaders and leading hospitality brands. The four‑day programme provided a platform for learning, collaboration and high-level networking.

Evolving beyond traditional trade show formats, Opulence introduced its new ‘Beyond the Ballroom’ concept, facilitating more than 1,680 pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings across the resort’s scenic venues. The sessions were complemented by immersive cultural and leisure experiences designed to strengthen connections through shared discovery.

Meetings took place in scenic venues

A programme highlight was the panel discussion ’Rewriting the Travel Script’, featuring dnata Travel Group CEO John Bevan alongside senior figures from WhereIsThis, Atlantis Resorts and the Oman Convention Bureau.

The discussion explored how the concierge role is evolving from reactive service to proactive anticipation of guest needs; how AI‑driven personalisation is enabling real-time, tailored travel experiences; and how storytelling, sustainability and destination stewardship are shaping the future of luxury travel.

Dnata, Visa target GCC elite with new luxury travel benefits

Connections Cruise Arabia returns to Dubai in 2026

Delegates also discovered Oman’s rich cultural heritage during an evening hosted by Experience Oman at the Frankincense Museum within the Al Balid Archaeological Site. The itinerary featured curated excursions showcasing the best of Salalah, from dolphin‑watching and snorkelling to city tours and mountain safaris through Dhofar’s dramatic landscapes.

With 28 exhibitors participating, the event served as a dynamic platform for suppliers and buyers to connect and exchange insights.

Panel discussion, Opulence by Ahlan Arabia

Commenting on the roadshow, Rakhi Purohit, Head of dnata Representation Services, said it reflected dnata’s vision for a “new era” of luxury travel focused on “deeper connections, meaningful experiences, and strengthened links across the GCC and beyond.”

Part of the dnata Travel Group, dnata Representation Services partners with global hotels, transport providers and tourism boards, delivering sales, marketing, commercial and operational support across key international markets. Opulence by Ahlan Arabia is set to continue its regional expansion, with future editions planned across the GCC.

For more information, visit dnata-representation-services