Connect Indian Ocean and Middle East October 2025

Our popular Connect Indian Ocean and Middle East event is back with a host of NEW suppliers coming to London, Birmingham, Manchester and Glasgow

Our popular Indian Ocean & Middle East event is back with a host of NEW suppliers in October

Suppliers confirmed so far include: Royal Brunei Airlines, Qatar Airways, The Address, Visit Oman, Adaaran – Maldives, Sunlife, JA Resorts, Lux Resorts, Heritance Aarah, Dubai Holdings, Attitude, Ras Al Khaimah, Major Travel, Ajman Tourism, Emirates, Expedia TAAP, Air Mauritius, Sun Siyam and Saudi Tourism Authority.

The evening will consist of catching up over refreshments, speed dating with suppliers, a panel Q&A.

London October 13

Tower Suites
100 Minories,
London EC3N 1JY
6pm – 9.15pm

Birmingham October 14

The Old Library
Zellig, Gibb St,
Birmingham B9 4AT
6pm – 9.15pm

Manchester October 15

voco Manchester – City Centre by IHG
59 Portland St,
Manchester M1 3HP
6pm – 9.15pm

Glasgow October 16

Citation
40 Wilson St,
Glasgow G1 1HD
6pm – 9.15pm

Places are limited so RSVP as soon as possible to secure a spot.


Order of evening

6.00 – 7.00pm

Agents arrive/networking with F&B service

7.00 – 8.30pm

Agent speed-dating

8.30 – 8.40pm

Break

8.40 – 9.00pm

Q&A with suppliers

9.00 – 9.15pm

Prize draws

9.15pm

Finish 


Meet the exibitors

Aber black

Abercrombie & Kent (London only)

For six decades A&K has been refining the art of bespoke travel, showing every guest the world in a fresh light. In that time, we’ve never lost sight of the personal touch that makes our journeys remarkable, nor the engine of our success: our partnerships with travel professionals who share our passion for selling exclusive experiences grounded in responsible tourism through group tours, tailor made journeys, beach holidays, villas, expedition cruises, safaris and more. Our on-the-road sales teams provide 24/7 support to agents as part of a formidable network of more than 2,500 staff, in 60 offices, in 35 countries, on all seven continents – so you can sell A&K with confidence.

Contact:  Victoria Houston VHouston@abercrombiekent.co.uk


abercrombiekent.co.uk


adaaran

Adaaran Resorts – Maldives

Adaaran is a chain of 4 superb Maldivian island resorts. 

The ‘lead in’ resort Adaaran Club Rannalhi is typically Maldivian in style, nestled on a small private island at the tip of the South Male atoll. Its unique location offers pristine beaches, excellent scuba diving & is just 45 minutes by speedboat from the Male.

Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi is a larger island set over 83 acres of lush tropical beach, on Lhohifushi Island. This popular 5 includes 5 restaurants, 4 bars & an abundance of activities. Located just 30 minutes by speedboat from Male. 

Adaaran Select Meedhupparu is an idyllic retreat for those seeking a relaxing escape. Set in the tranquil northerly Raa Atoll, this renowned resort has 4 restaurants, 4 bars & covers 43 acres of tropical greenery, sweeping white sand beaches & superb house reef. 45 minutes by seaplane from Male. 

Adaaran Prestige Vadoo is the 5* island in the group & is only 15 minutes by speedboat from Male, in the South Malé Atoll. This ‘adult only’ boutique sized resort consists of 50 water villas and wonderful food/ beverage choices within the premium all-inclusive programme.

Contact: Jonathan Wilkins jon@select-rep.com

adaaran.com


Address

Address Hotels & Resorts
(London, Birmingham, Manchester only)

Emaar Hospitality Group are one of the world’s most valuable real estate development companies in the UAE.

The group have a strong footprint in Dubai and have expanded into international markets which include: Turkey, Egypt, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

The group owns and manages a portfolio of hospitality assets including: Address Hotels + Resorts, a premium luxury hotel and residences brand.

Armani Hotel, luxurious accommodation designed by Giorgio Arman and situated in the iconic Burj Khalifa.

Vida Hotels and Resorts; an upscale lifestyle hotel and residences brand.

Rove Hotels an award-winning lifestyle hotel and residences brand offering vibrantly designed properties in connected locations.

Emaar also own and operate popular attractions in Dubai and entertainment experiences which include:

• The Burj Khalifa – The tallest building in the world.

• The Dubai Fountain – World’s largest choreographed fountain system,  located at the base of Burj Khalifa.

• Downtown Dubai – A flagship mega-development that includes Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain, and more.

• At the Top, Burj Khalifa – Observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors.

• Sky Views Dubai – A glass slide and edge walk at Address Sky View Hotel.

• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

• VR Park

• Dubai Ice Rink

Contact: Rosina Azhar Rosinaa.gms@emaar.ae

addresshotels.com


air mauritiusweb

Air Mauritius (London, Birmingham, Manchester only)

Air Mauritius now operates a five time a week with non-stop flights from London Gatwick to Mauritius using the latest state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 and A330-900Neo aircraft with comfortable seating and up-to-date inflight entertainment, there is no better way to start your Holiday in Mauritius. Also flying from 6 regional UK airports with our Partner Air France via Paris where a double daily Air Mauritius flight operates.

Whether you travel in Economy or Business Class you will benefit from complimentary drinks and fine wines with a choice of menu, showcasing Mauritian cuisines to capture the fusion of flavours that is unique to Mauritius. Personal amenity kits are available to all passengers as well as children’s packs.

As soon as your board the Air Mauritius plane you will feel like you have already arrived on the beautiful Island of Mauritius that is home to the welcoming Mauritian people.

Contact: Allan Owen aowen@airmauritius.com

airmauritius.com


Ajman logo

Ajman Tourism (Manchester only)

A 30-minute taxi ride from Dubai Airport but a world away, Ajman is the UAE’s hidden gem with world-class activities, untamed landscapes, pristine white sand beaches and luxurious resorts,

With its spotless shores, Ajman is regarded as having the prettiest beaches in the UAE. This tranquil enclave is fringed by almost a mile of soft natural sand,

Offering more value for money than some of the neighbouring emirates 4 and 5 star resorts come with their own slice of natural, sandy beach and offer a range of board options from room-only to fully all-inclusive.

The Heritage District is designed to preserve, highlight and promote the rich Arabian culture and history of Ajman and includes Ajman Museum. Housed inside an 18th-century fort and once home to the ruler’s family. now the UAE’s largest heritage museum including centuries-old manuscripts, antique weaponry, and locally excavated pottery dating back to 3,000BC.

The vast green coastal forests of Al Zorah Nature Reserve are perhaps the most unexpected sight in the UAE. The mangroves and wetlands are a haven for wildlife, providing a sanctuary for more than 60 species of bird, including flocks of pink flamingo. A coastal nursery for countless marine creatures, visitors can explore with guided kayaking tours through its lagoons.

Contact: Chris Lee Chris@ajmantourism.uk

visit-ajman.ae


Attitude logo

Attitude hotels (Manchester only)

We are a Mauritian family-business with a collection of 3* & 4* eco-committed hotels on a Positive Impact mission to make tourism more sustainable. Our group proudly holds the B Corp label and we pride ourselves on offering a unique guest experience, genuine and authentic.

Every detail of your holiday has been thought out to preserve our environment, care for our community and support our local economy.

You won’t find any single-use plastic or individually packed sugar, tea, coffee or snacks in our rooms. Instead, you’re invited to stock up on what you need at the hotel’s Bulk Shop.

A stay at an Attitude Hotel can be a chilled-out beach holiday but it can also lead to a cleaner ocean. Let us show you what makes our island so special… like our sparkling lagoon.

Have dinner with a local family; relax in a beautiful room finished with locally made furniture and upcycled decorations; explore off-the-beaten track locations with the help of Attitude’s free Otentik Discovery mobile app; or take a break with 100% natural products at Spa POZ.

We’re a Made in Moris brand, so we source and use the best local products wherever possible. And because our commitment will have a greater impact if shared, you will be contributing to our Positive Impact movement when you stay at an Attitude hotel!

Contact: Emily Standen emily@revetourism.com

hotels-attitude.com


dubia

Dubai Holding Entertainment
(Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow only)

Dubai Holding Entertainment is one the largest diversified entertainment groups in the region. It develops, operates and manages some of Dubai’s most iconic attractions and family destinations, creating exceptional experiences, attracting millions of visitors each year, making every visit a story worth sharing. The portfolio includes Global Village, the UAE and wider region’s leading multicultural family destination for culture, shopping, and entertainment; Dubai Parks™ and Resorts, the Middle East’s largest theme park destination, comprising of MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, the largest Hollywood-inspired theme park in the region, LEGOLAND® Dubai Theme Park, LEGOLAND® Water Park, and Real Madrid World the World’s first football theme park.  Other attractions include Wild Wadi Waterpark™, Dubai’s original family-friendly waterpark, Inside Burj Al Arab a tour of Dubai’s most iconic landmark, The Green Planet Dubai, the Middle East’s only indoor tropical rainforest, The View At The Palm with the best views of Palm Jumeirah and Ain Dubai, the tallest observation wheel in the world.

Contact: Kshitij Garg Kshitij.Garg@dhentertainment.ae

dubaiholding.com


Expedia TAAP Logo 2color 2021

Expedia.Tap
(Glasgow only)

Expedia TAAP provides travel agents with access to a wide range of quality travel products, competitive rates, and excellent availability. Our user-friendly platform is designed to offer a seamless booking experience. With industry-leading technology, personalized support, and exclusive inventory and planning tools, Expedia TAAP empowers agents to grow their business.

Contact: Amanda Leggett, Key Account Manager – North , Northern Ireland & Scotland amanda.leggett@discovertheworld.com

expediataap.co.uk


Aarah LOGO

Heritance Aarah (Birmingham, Manchester only)

Located within the scenic Raa Atoll and only a 40-minute sea plane transfer from Male, this premium all-inclusive resort sets the tone for the perfect getaway. Complete with elegantly appointed villas, the resort boasts a world class culinary experience with six restaurants and five bars plus an impressive array of activities on the island.

Heritance Aarah is the ultimate retreat for both families and couples alike, where every detail is curated to offer a seamless and enriching experience that exceeds all expectations, characterized by personal service, an array of activities and excellent cuisine, all in beautiful surrounds.

1. Price

A premium all-inclusive resort with a myriad of offerings including an impressive array of dining options and a range of land and water-based activities.  An idyllic Maldives retreat at exceptional value.

2. Dining

With five bars and six restaurants on the island no two days are ever the same. This includes their signature Ambula restaurant, which fuses exotic dishes from both the Maldives & Sri Lanka. Here guests can try their inventive eight-course tasting menu experience, produced by award winning chefs, and paired with wines. 

3. Great for both families/ couples

Due to the variety of activities and exclusive experiences, Heritance Aarah is the ultimate retreat for both families and couples alike. Click here to view all experiences.

4. House reef 

The house reef allows guests to snorkel right in-front of their rooms. Snorkelling equipment is included and all guests receive a 15 minute introduction to diving lesson with the resort’s Padi centre.

5. Maldivian showcase

Unique to the island, guests can discover the traditional ways of the Maldivian people at the Maldivian Village Showcase, opened once a week.  

Contact: Orla Coughlan orla@smallworldmarketing.co.uk

heritancehotels.com


Lux collective

The Lux collective (Birmingham, Glasgow only)

LIFE EXTRAORDINARY

Helping People Celebrate Life

At LUX* we believe that every single moment is worth celebrating and making remarkable. From life’s big moments to the small ones. Every moment is made extraordinary.

Our unique hotels in the most beautiful destinations celebrate the culture, the people, the nature, and the flavours of its destination in a way that makes the ordinary extraordinary.

Creative and caring, we serve our guests with passion. We have redefined luxury travel and imagined simple, vibrant and sensorial experiences to help you celebrate life. Unforgettable and surprisingly delightful moments await you at the heart of our resorts: a cinema Paradiso on the beach, a surprise Aperitivo, a Wanderlust library or a hidden message in a bottle for memories that will last long after your tan fades.

Contact: Andrea Hind andrea.hind@theluxcollective.com

theluxcollective.com


JA RESORT HOTELS Gray E7

JA Resorts & Hotels (Birmingham only)

JA Resorts & Hotels is a Dubai-born hospitality brand with a proud heritage since 1981. Rooted in the traditions of genuine Emirati hospitality, the portfolio features eight distinct properties across the UAE and Indian Ocean — designed to welcome guests of all generations and travel purposes. From the peaceful shores of JA Manafaru in the Maldives to the barefoot luxury of JA Enchanted Island Resort in Seychelles, each destination is designed to connect guests with nature, community, and a sense of belonging. In Dubai, the portfolio includes the beachfront JA Ocean View Hotel, the expansive JA properties at Jebel Ali Beach — home to JA Beach Hotel, JA Palm Tree Court, and JA Lake View Hotel — as well as JA Hatta Fort Hotel, a tranquil retreat in the Hajar Mountains. The Manor by JA brings thoughtful business hospitality to the heart of Al Furjan. Known for its warmth and personalised service, JA Resorts & Hotels is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance, giving guests access to over 800 hotels worldwide through the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme. 

Contact: Gill Shannon gill.shannon@jaresorts.com

jaresortshotels.com


Major Travel logo

Major Travel (Manchester only)

For over 50 years, Major Travel has been dedicated exclusively to the travel trade, earning a reputation as one of the UK’s most trusted partners for tailor-made holidays worldwide. As a trade-only specialist, we work closely with travel agents, offering direct contracts, exclusive deals, and exceptional value for your clients.

Our advanced agent booking platform makes creating quotes quick and easy, enabling you to respond confidently to customer enquiries. Beyond competitive pricing, we reward our partners with exciting incentives and our unique Major Miles loyalty programme, allowing you to save towards your own holiday each time you book.

Specialist areas include Long Haul travel with a focus on the Middle East and Indian Ocean, Pilgrimage trips, Safaris, and USA and Caribbean holidays. With extensive expertise across the globe, we showcase destinations that inspire – from sun-soaked beaches and cultural capitals to adventure escapes and luxury retreats. Whatever your clients’ travel dreams, our experienced team helps craft the perfect itinerary.

At Major Travel, our mission is simple: to support agents with the tools, knowledge, and partnerships they need to grow their business while delivering exceptional experiences to their customers.

Contact: Rute Magalhaes rute@major.travel

major.travel


Experience Oman English

EXPERIENCE OMAN (LONDON ONLY)

The Sultanate of Oman is considered a hidden jewel at the tip of the Arabian Peninsula.

Oman is a wonderful combination of ageless heritage and modern life. A place where visitors can explore a traditional souq in the morning and attend a world-class show at the renowned Royal Opera House Muscat in the evening. A large part of the the destinations unique charm is the hospitality of the Omani people, and it is common for visitors to be invited for Omani coffee and dates by locals when travelling throughout the country, an offer that should never be refused.

Visitors and adventurers looking for a unique holiday experience will find that Oman has a lot to offer. Hiking, scuba diving, fishing, kitesurfing and caving to name just a few. From tall mountains and deep gorges, to water-filled wadis, endless beaches and some of the world’s most stunning desert landscapes, the diverse beauty of Oman is apparent in every part of the country. Even when summer temperatures soar in the rest of the region,Oman enjoys cooler temperatures in Dhofar and the mountain tops of the Al Hajar range, making it a one-of-a-kind holiday destination for visitors from around the world.

experienceoman.om


Qatar logo 2025

Qatar Airways
(London only)

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways won the ‘World’s Best Airline’ for an unprecedented ninth time at the 2025 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. Qatar Airways was previously named the World’s Best Airline in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2024.

The airline continues to be synonymous with excellence, and has yet again received recognition for ‘World’s Best Business Class’, and ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge’. As the leading connector in the region, Qatar Airways has also been lauded with the ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’ title for the 13 time.

Qatar Airways currently flies to over 170 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ for 11 consecutive years, as well as ‘World’s Best Airport Shopping’ for the third year in a row, as voted by Skytrax. Hamad International Airport has previously been named the ‘World’s Best Airport’ by Skytrax in 2021, 2022, and 2024.

Contact: Kieran Michael Farragher kfarragher@uk.qatarairways.com

qatarairways.com


Ras al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah (Manchester only)

Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost emirate of the UAE, offers a unique blend ofnatural beauty, adventure, and cultural heritage. Just a 45-minute drive from DubaiInternational Airport, it provides a serene escape from bustling city life.

The ‘nature emirate’ boasts stunning landscapes, from pristine beaches andlush mangroves to terracotta deserts and the majestic Hajar Mountains, home tothe UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Jais. This diverse scenery makes it a paradise forunique attractions, including Suwaidi Pearl Farm, Sonara Desert Camp andmountain experiences like zip-lining on the Jais Flight or dining at the UAE’shighest restaurant, 1484 by Puro.

Ras Al Khaimah is known for world-class resorts, offering excellent value formoney. Many of the hotel offerings provide all-inclusive facilities, as well as ahigh-end portfolio of serene luxury beachfront retreats and desert sanctuaries.

With its blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, Ras Al Khaimah is an idealdestination for travelers looking for a unique and enriching holiday experience.

Contact: Emma Charlesworth emma@raktda.com

visitrasalkhaimah.com


Royal Brunei

Royal Brunei Airlines
(London only)

Royal Brunei Airlines (RB)  is the national carrier for Brunei Darussalam and was established on 18 November 1974.

Royal Brunei is one of the few airlines operating direct flights between London Heathrow Terminal 4 and Dubai and onward to Brunei. We connect Brunei to the world by operating flights to Australia (Melbourne), Southeast Asia, including Kota Kinabalu (North Borneo) and Manila.

With a focus on service excellence, RB has been recognised with numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Airline Passenger Experience Association Official Airline Ratings- Five Star.

Having received the award for Five consecutive years for World’s Leading Cabin Crew, Royal Brunei are consistently recognised for offering outstanding service and offering a boutique product to both economy and business class passengers.

Enjoy five-star hospitality, competitive fares, roomy seat pitches, quality dining, and generous baggage allowance on Royal Brunei Airlines.

Contact: Heidi Atkins hatkins@flyrba.co.uk

flyroyalbrunei.com


sunlife web

Sunlife (Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow)

Whether you’re looking to keep the whole family entertained, immerse yourself in the local culture or play world-famous golf courses, you’ll find what you’re looking for at one of Sunlife’s five luxury resorts.

Sugar Beach 5* is vibrant and glamorous with indulgent sunset views and luxury at every turn. Formerly a sugar plantation, the original manor house remains and provides an iconic backdrop for a fabulous stay.

Long Beach 5* is a modern resort with an energy and sense of adventure unlike anywhere else. From sea kayaking to bee-hive farming, this is where opulence meets opportunity.

La Pirogue 4+ is full of character and unrivalled charm. Relax, explore and discover a whole new side to paradise at the most authentic resort in Mauritius. Ambre 4 is a breathtaking resort on the sunrise coast, where every hour is golden hour. Put your feet up and enjoy an adults-only, all-inclusive escape, with unrivalled Mauritian hospitality.
Anahita Golf & Spa Resort 5* offers only villas and suites, all beautifully spacious and nestled amongst lush greenery – perfect for a luxurious stay for families and groups.

Ile aux Cerfs is a world-renowned golf island, where all Sunlife guests can enjoy complimentary and unlimited green fees.

Contact:
(Birmingham) Lisa Balsom lisa.balsom@yoursunlife.com

(Manchester-Glasgow) Beth Lewis Beth.Lewis@yoursunlife.com

yoursunlife.com


Sun Siyam Resorts

Sun Siyam Resorts (London, Glasgow only)

Contact: Zaain Nabeel zaain.nabeel@sunsiyam.com

sunsiyam.com


TRAVELPACK

Travelpack (Glasgow only)

Travelpack, a proud family-owned business since 1981, brings over 40 years of expertise to the travel trade. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to service, Travelpack partners with travel agents to deliver exceptional holiday experiences for their clients. As one of the UK’s leading flight consolidators and tour operators, we offer an extensive portfolio – from worldwide flights with leading airlines to tailor-made luxury escapes, tours, cruises, car hire, rail journeys, and unforgettable excursions.

Our flexible booking options empower agents to choose the way they work – whether it’s the speed and convenience of our online platform or the personalised support of our highly experienced travel experts. With ATOL, ABTA, and IATA accreditation, you can book with total confidence, knowing your clients are in safe hands.

At Travelpack, we understand that every booking is more than just a trip – it’s a memory in the making. That’s why we work tirelessly to provide competitive rates, exclusive deals, and expert guidance, helping our partners exceed client expectations every time.

When you work with Travelpack, you’re not just booking travel – you’re gaining a trusted partner dedicated to your success.

Contact: Michele Lister michele.lister@travelpack.com

travelpack.com

Related Posts

The Selling Travel Magazine is published by BMI Publishing Ltd:
501 The Residence, No. 1 Alexandra Terrace, Guildford, GU1 3DA. Tel: 020 8649 7233