Middle Eastern travellers will have access to more international airlines and possibly, at a slightly cheaper rate. Online travel agent (OTA) Book on Wego has teamed up with global payment network UATP to integrate the payment solution into its booking site.
Announced this week, BOW hopes the move will encourage more airlines and other operators to sign up with the OTA as it allows them to serve the Middle Eastern market through simplified payment processes and expanded payment capabilities.
One of the major benefits of the partnership appears to be the cost efficiencies for suppliers which will hopefully translate into fairer fares for travellers.
“Being part of the UATP Network helps us boost supplier acceptance while lowering the cost of travel supplier payments across the entire value chain,” said Dean Wicks, Wego’s Chief Flights Officer.
“We are committed to helping companies navigate the complexities of travel as well as contributing to the growth and development of the tourism industry.”
Expanding on the cost efficiencies, UATP President and Chief Executive Ralph Kaiser, added that by leverage the power of effective payments, BOW will be able to “drive more value for its travel partners”.
“Becoming a UATP Issuer helps enhance supplier relations and boost spending power,” he said. “By leveraging the power of the UATP Network, BOW can create cost efficiencies and drive more value for its travel partners.”
Royal Jordanian Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer, Karime Makhlouf, joined the conversation, saying UATP and BOW collaboration will support the continued growth of the airline industry in the MENA region.
“We are eager to work with our trust partner Wego to leverage the extensive benefits of being part of the UATP Network,” Makhlouf said.
This is just the latest in a series of recent moves by Wego within the Middle Eastern market. Last month, the OTA teamed up with Saudi Arabia’s Aseer Region Development Authority to promote the Kingdom’s southwest region. The flight search app also announced an agreement with Azerbaijan Tourism Board as well as Jordan Tourism Board to boost tourism to the two destinations.
