Saudi’s Almosafer Trials AI-Powered Chatbot and Voice Search

Saudi Arabia’s Almosafer is piloting the integration of artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT, on its mobile booking platforms. The country’s first travel company to test the integration of ChatGPT, Almosafer believes this will enhance the booking experience by providing more tailored responses to customer queries. During the pilot phase, the integrated platform will be introduced to a limited customer base of Almosafer’s consumer segment, where it will be utilized to support customers with their flight search and to aid customers in planning their trip post-booking. Almosafer is testing a voice search function powered by ChatGPT and will enable customers to search for the best flight options in both English and Arabic by simply recording their flight search requests. “The testing of ChatGPT reflects our commitment to constantly enhance our digital platforms and maintain our position at the forefront of technology,” said Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO of Almosafer. Through ChatGPT, Khalid, Almosafer’s virtual travel advisor, will be empowered to become a more holistic travel consultant with the necessary knowledge and expertise. Ahussain added.

The Middle East and North Africa region is expected to witness a 36 percent increase in international visitors between June and August, according to travel data firm ForwardKeys. The surge in demand is likely to be led by Saudi Arabia, with a 475 percent increase in travelers compared to last year and a 56 percent increase from pre-pandemic levels. International arrivals in Qatar for this period are also expected to be 20 percent above 2019 levels and 62 percent above last year. Olivier Ponti, vice president of insights at ForwardKeys, said the region's tourism industry is poised to sustain its robust recovery during the summer season. Ponti noted a significant surge in travel intent, with flight searches for international trips growing by 39 percent in the first quarter, compared to the same period in the previous year, and improved flight connectivity. Saudi Arabia is also the most booked destination for travelling from the region this summer, up by 79 percent compared to pre-pandemic. 

Accor has signed a master development agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Amsa Hospitality to develop and franchise 18 hotels across second-tier cities within Saudi Arabia over the next 10 years. The agreement will see Amsa Hospitality develop a range of Accor’s economy and midscale brands,