Timeless Trails Recognized by Visit Abu Dhabi as a Preferred DMC
In a remarkable achievement for a proudly Sri Lankan-owned business, Timeless Trails has been officially listed as a preferred Destination Management Company (DMC) on the Visit Abu Dhabi website—one of just 32 operators to receive this prestigious recognition.
As the only 100% Sri Lankan partnership-owned DMC to be featured on the platform backed by the Government of Abu Dhabi, this milestone reflects years of dedicated groundwork, curated experiences, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
From its boutique approach to destination management across the UAE and Oman, to its growing influence as a trusted travel partner in the region, Timeless Trails continues to set itself apart in a highly competitive market.
Darshana Cabraal, Chief Executive Officer of Timeless Trails and the Co-founder of Tour Blue—established in 2013—drew on his extensive knowledge and experience in the UAE to launch Timeless Trails three years ago, at a time when Sri Lanka was grappling with an economic downturn. “Having a wealth of experience in the Middle East, I knew it was the right time to diversify and broaden our reach. That’s when the idea of a DMC in Dubai was born and we formed a strategic partnership with Shamraz Azeez who is our Chief Operating Offier,” said Cabraal.
Over the past three and a half years, Timeless Trails has built a full-service DMC operation in the UAE and Oman, with a dedicated fleet of vehicles, Direct Contracts with all major hotel chains, in house developed B2B Booking portal, and a growing Global clientele. They are also the Ground Handler for Sri Lankan Holidays (Part of Sri Lankan airlines) in UAE.
“We are one of the few 100% Sri Lankan-owned travel companies operating at this scale in the Middle East,” noted Cabraal. “And being featured on the Visit Abu Dhabi website is not just an honour—it’s validation of our quality, consistency, and hard work.”
Timelss Trails’ inclusion on the Visit Abu Dhabi platform is a direct result of its close collaborations with the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority. From desert safaris to curated cultural immersions, the company has delivered projects that reflect the unique essence of the UAE while maintaining international standards.
“We have been recognised as one of the best providers of curated experiences in the region,” said Shamraz Azeez. “Our Mangrove park explorations, walking tours in bustling souks, street food tours and local experiences hosted by local Emiratis are highly sort after and deeply appreciated by travellers and tourism partners.
Timeless Trails prides itself on being a boutique DMC—not focused on volume but on delivering quality. “We’re not chasing numbers,” said Cabraal. “We design immersive, personalized itineraries that cater to our clients’ needs, whether it’s a luxury desert escape or a wellness-focused retreat.”
The demand for boutique hotels and personalized service is rising, and this company is ahead of the curve. “The trend is shifting away from large-scale hotels to smaller, character-rich properties,” added Shamraz. “It’s about attention to detail, privacy, and a deeper connection with the destination.”
Timeless Trails also operates as an outbound tour operator, providing insights into both sides of the tourism equation. This dual role gives them a unique perspective on how Sri Lanka can position itself better in the Middle Eastern market. “Travelers from this region are looking for contrast—lush greenery, rich culture, and serenity,” said Shamraz. “The tea plantations, wellness retreats, and heritage sites in Sri Lanka are exactly what they’re seeking.”
The company caters to two main traveler segments in the GCC: local Emiratis, who often seek longer stays and high-end experiences, and expats, who usually opt for shorter breaks with competitive pricing. “Understanding these segments helps us craft the right product for the right audience,” said Cabraal.
Another area where Timeless Trails excels is in training and empowering its on-ground team. Their chauffeurs are more than just drivers—they’re trained tourism professionals equipped to provide insights and enhance the guest experience. “We’ve gone a step further to groom our chauffeurs through extensive training and product knowledge so they’re delivering more than just transport—they’re delivering stories, context, and warmth,” Cabraal emphasized.
In addition to FIT travel, they are expanding into the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segment. Their fleet includes classic Range Rovers, and they offer desert camping experiences ranging from 3 to 5-star options, tailored to corporate travelers and incentive groups.
Another hallmark of their boutique service is a 24-hour help desk that functions as a concierge service, giving travelers peace of mind throughout their journey. “It’s about being there for our clients—anytime, anywhere. That’s the trust we’ve built and continue to uphold,” said Shamraz.
As the company looks to the future, the team remains committed to sustainable growth and staying true to their roots. “Sri Lanka has so much to offer,” said Cabraal. “And from our base in the UAE, we’re in the perfect position to tell that
story to the world.”
With an unwavering focus on quality, strong local insight, and recognition from one of the most prestigious tourism platforms in the GCC, Timeless Trails stands as a beacon of Sri Lankan entrepreneurship and excellence in global travel. By seamlessly blending Sri Lankan warmth and hospitality with the UAE’s forward-thinking innovation and dynamism, the company offers travelers a truly distinctive and memorable experience
