Hala Abu Dhabi, the professional conference organiser and destination management company of Etihad Airways, was named ‘World’s Best Halal Tour Operator’ at the inaugural World Halal Travel Awards 2015.
The awards celebrate best practice, service and distinction in travel and tourism brands within the international Halal tourism sector, with winners announced during a gala reception in Abu Dhabi on 20 October 2015.
With an international attendance of industry leaders, the awards were part of a three-day event held in Abu Dhabi, The World Halal Travel Summit & Exhibition, exclusively supported by the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority.
The World Halal Travel Awards collected ballots from 42,000 travel professionals in 53 countries around the world in 2015.
Mohammed Al Bulooki, Etihad Airways’ Vice President UAE Commercial, said: “We are delighted to receive this award, which reinforces our commitment to the globally booming Halal tourism market. But more importantly, it demonstrates our active engagement with our Muslim guests, offering options and high levels of service that will enhance their travel experience.
“Our dedicated programmes are tailored to provide Muslim travellers with exciting opportunities to explore the dynamic city of Abu Dhabi and enjoy its Arabian hospitality while maintaining the values and modesty of Muslim-friendly travel.”
Hala Abu Dhabi recently launched a new product ‘Islamic City Stopover’, offering a range of four to five star hotels in Abu Dhabi, which cater especially to the needs of Muslim guests when traveling for Hajj or Umrah. All hotels serve Halal foods and non-alcoholic drinks, and offer prayer facilities. The programme includes a city tour to discover the history and culture of Abu Dhabi, with a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Ladies-only tours are available, which are conducted by licensed female Hala Guest Guides.
Photo caption (left to right): (Etihad Airways) Christopher Hunter, Head of Etihad Holidays and Hala Abu Dhabi; and Mohammed Al Bulooki, Vice President UAE Commercial; flanked by two female Hala Guest Guides, with the World’s Best Halal Tour Operator Award in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
