ABU DHABI-BASED boutique tourism industry advisory firm Samaya International has opened its first international office in Paris, France.
Demand for support in investment in European hospitality brands from local UAE-based clients has initiated this expansion, explains Ali Al Hosani, chief executive officer and founder.“With a dedicated office located in Paris and French-speaking staff, this enables us to assist our clients with asset and hotel management services throughout France, Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Monaco,” says Al Hosani.“We are now also well-placed to provide assistance with French tourism and investment companies who are seeking representation in the UAE, which is in line with our vision of taking Abu Dhabi to the world, and bringing the world to Abu Dhabi.”According to figures released by Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, the number of French nationals checking into Abu Dhabi’s hotels reached record levels in the first seven months of 2014, with over 32,000 hotel guests representing a 14 per cent increase on the same period in the previous year. The trend is expected to continue to rise in the lead up to the opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island in 2015, representing a significant cultural exchange and partnership between the two countries.Phillipe Mugnier has been appointed manager of Samaya International’s French office. Mugnier was the representative for Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority in French-speaking Europe, and contributed an unparalleled level of expertise to marketing Abu Dhabi as a destination of distinction.