dnata Travel Group has announced that it has expanded the scope of responsibility of Alvin Materi, commercial director of cruise, to include the oversight of cruise sales and commercial partnerships at Arabian Adventures in the Middle East.
This is in addition to Destination Asia’s operations across Asia.
In his expanded role, Materi will work with cruise operators and relevant authorities to help restore cruise itineraries in the Middle East and optimize dnata’s cruise business worldwide.
Sebastien Doussin, senior vice president of global travel services and destination management at dnata Travel Group, said: “Cruise tourism is entering an extraordinary phase of growth, even as parts of the industry continue to adapt to evolving global conditions.”
“By bringing our regional cruise teams under one commercial strategy, we’re strengthening our ability to support our partners end‑to‑end, from shore excursions to ground handling, and ensuring travelers enjoy a seamless experience at every destination,” added Doussin.
“I wish Materi every success in his new role and look forward to seeing him further strengthen our cruise business across the group.”
The group said that by unifying commercial cruise leadership across its destination management brands, dnata aims to provide cruise partners with more coordinated support across multiple ports, simplified communication, greater consistency in delivery and enhanced commercial value across the network.
dnata Travel Group said in a press release that Materi has more than 30 years of experience in the global cruise sector, and he brings extensive operational expertise and long‑standing relationships with major cruise lines.
He has played a key role within Destination Asia, where he supported the expansion of cruise operations across Singapore, Malaysia, Japan and South Korea, and led the launch of Expeditions by Destination Asia.
The company added that in Dubai, Sebastien Garcia, vice president of Arabian Adventures, and Ben Smith, head of operations, will continue to oversee cruise and ground operations.
Oana Jianu, Karla Cervantes and the Dubai-based cruise team report directly to Smith.
In Asia, Matt Smith, CEO of Destination Asia, will continue to work with Materi and the established in‑country cruise managers to ensure operational delivery across all destinations.
Destination Asia recently expanded into South Korea with a new office supporting cruise and MICE growth. The business also launched Expeditions by Destination Asia in 2025.