MUSCAT: Alhind Tours and Travels has confirmed its major expansion plans in Asia, Middle East and Africa this year.

The popular travel company with over 150 branches and more than 2,000 employees across the globe will also expand its operations in Oman. Starting from February 1, Alhind has become the official GSA (General Sales Agent) for SpiceJet airline in UAE.

Speaking to The Arabian Stories, Reena Abdulrahman, Chief Operating Officer of Alhind Tours and Travels has also confirmed that the company will open its new offices in Sohar and Salalah. Alhind recently launched its B2B travel portal in the Sultanate.

“When the world came almost to a standstill in the wake of Covid-19, the travel and tourism industry was one of the worst affected. However, we made sure that we survived the challenging times with the help of chartered flight services, quarantine packages, cargo charters and other products,” Reena said.

SpiceJet operates to four airports in UAE. “There are around 60 flights of SpiceJet operating to Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Kaimah. It’s a privilege for us to be the official GSA of SpiceJet,” Reena said.

In Asia, Alhind has opened its office in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The company is also opening its offices in Africa including Somali Land, Utopia, Hargeisa and Gambia this year.

The global travel economy, according to Reena could reach $8.6 trillion this year, just 6.4 percent behind pre-pandemic levels. “If the vaccine and booster rollout continue at their current pace and restrictions to international travel are eased throughout the year, the travel industry could create 58 million jobs in 2022, and the industry’s contribution to the global economy could see a similar moderate year-on-year rise of 31.7% in the current year,” she added.