Cleartrip, a leading online travel booking portal, has recently raised $40 million last year for its continued expansion and plans to invest up to $12 million over the next two years. This week, Cleartrip announced the launch of its customized websites in Oman, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait. The announcement came during the company’s participation in the Arabian Travel Market 2012, which kicked off today at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
This move is part of Cleartrip’s long-term strategy to explore new and dynamic markets with a full product range customized for each country. In February, the company sold 600 air tickets and 100 room nights each day, reflecting a 120 per cent increase over the last year. After launching the new country-specific websites, the company is looking to increase these numbers to 1,000 air tickets and 200 room nights daily by the end of 2012, according to Jae Hyung Kim, Cleartrip’s President and Head of Business Development.
“The $1 billion online travel market is set for significant growth in the region and our strategy is to ensure our performance, expansion and services match this growth. We have been in the UAE for almost 2 years now and we are confident that exhibitions, such as the Arabian Travel Market, are the ideal platforms to announce these plans,” said Jae. “Cleartrip has been localized for each country in the GCC and we’re eager to showcase throughout the region our ability to make travel simple with comprehensive content, innovative technology, responsive customer service and a travel platform that strives to just work better.”
Cleartrip has ensured the most comprehensive offering for its customers in the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait. With over 250 flights and 70,000 hotels to choose from and access to a simple, comprehensive and quick online travel portal, Cleartrip allows customers to efficiently book flights and hotels.
“The Gulf is home to some of the most diverse populations in the world,” explained Jae, “from local nationals, Arab expatriates, Westerners and significant numbers of residents from India and Pakistan. With route expansion by major carriers, the Gulf continues to connect international markets. Cleartrip is excited to operate in the Gulf and the broader Middle East as the region continues to play a pivotal role in world travel and local tourism.”
Cleartrip is participating in the Arabian Travel Market 2012 show at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. They can be found in Hall Number 1, Stand CT368.