2017 marks 40 years since Cathay Pacific began operating its first Dubai route from its hub in Hong Kong in 1977, adding its 20th destination globally and further connecting the Middle East and South East Asia. Ever since that historic inaugural flight to Dubai, Al Naboodah Travel has represented the leading Asian airline as its general sales agent in the UAE.
Nasir Khan, CEO of Al Naboodah Travel, said: “It has been our pleasure to represent Cathay Pacific in the United Arab Emirates these last four decades. As one of Asia’s leading airlines, Cathay Pacific represents the very best in commercial air travel, having received countless industry awards. We are proud to have played a part in that success story.”
The very first flight to Dubai, serviced by a Boeing 707, initially flew via Bangkok and Bahrain, leaving Hong Kong on Wednesdays and Sundays. A direct Hong Kong-Dubai service was introduced 24 years later in 1993, complementing Cathay Pacific’s existing service at the time to the United Arab Emirates via Bangkok and Mumbai.
Since its launch, the route has seen a number of developments, including the introduction of the ground-breaking Super Tristar L1011 – Cathay Pacific’s first wide-body jet – on the Dubai route in 1982, as well as the iconic Boeing 747-300 ‘Jumbo Jet’, the Boeing 777, and Airbus A330-300 aircraft. By 2008, the Dubai route had expanded significantly to 18 flights a week, 14 being direct operating twice a day, and one operating via Mumbai. The remainder were routed through Bangkok and on to Bahrain.
Cathay Pacific Country Manager UAE & Oman, Ashish Kapur, said: “Since launching the Dubai route four decades ago, we have played an important part in bringing visitors from different parts of the world to the UAE. We, as an airline, have come a long way in developing our products and services for our customers in this region and will continue our commitment in providing a high standard of service and connecting travellers from Dubai to Hong Kong and beyond.”
Today, passengers flying between Dubai and Hong Kong can enjoy the airline’s two-class configuration on the Airbus A330-300, offering its renowned personal service that sets Cathay Pacific apart from other airlines. The route is serviced twice-daily non-stop, with an additional daily onward flight to Bahrain.
As well as Cathay Pacific, Al Naboodah Travel represents a number of leading airlines as their general sales agent for the UAE, including Turkish Airlines, Air Canada, Air France, Austrian Airlines, Air Zimbabwe, TAM Airlines and United Airways (BD).
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About Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Holding LLC:
Founded in 1958 by two brothers, the Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group is among the most well-respected family company names in the UAE.
Set up in 1979, Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Holding LLC is the family parent company for the Group. It is run by a Board led by our Group Chairman.
About Al Naboodah Group Enterprises:
The management of the Group’s operating divisions is undertaken by Al Naboodah Group Enterprises (ANGE). Employing over 16,000 people and over 40 nationalities, the ANGE core business focus covers civil engineering, building and MEP as well as a diverse portfolio of global brands in the transportation, travel, electrical, logistics, agriculture and furniture and fit-out arenas. The Al Naboodah brand is renowned for the delivery of world-class projects and services within demanding schedules and exceeding the quality demanded by its clients.
© Press Release 2017
