Skyscanner, Almosafer Launch ChatGPT Apps in Middle East, Where AI Booking Is Possible
Photo Credit: Unsplash / Ekrem Osmanoglu
Skift Take
Travel brands are implementing AI at scale, but there's a limit to what AI can manage when it comes to traveler sentiment and local regulations.
Skyscanner and Saudi Arabia’s Almosafer are the latest travel companies to have announced partnerships with ChatGPT to improve travel search in the Middle East.
Skyscanner launched its app inside ChatGPT on April 8, meaning the AI platform can now provide itineraries for flights in and out of the Middle East, responding to both English and Arabic prompts.
“We see a strong opportunity for metasearch to extend its utilities into AI-powered environments — delivering more personalised, relevant experiences while maintaining the accuracy travellers rely on,” Piero Sierra, Skyscanner’s Chief AI Officer, told Skift, adding: “The UAE and Saudi Arabia are included within the rollout because we know that travellers in this market are at the forefront of AI adoption for their travel planning.”
Meanwhile Almosafer, a Riyadh-based OTA, launched its ChatGPT app on the same day. It claims to be the first Saudi application to offer consumer services thro
