Enhancing its role as the number one car rental organization in the Middle East and North Africa region, Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, parent company of the Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental brands, today announced its partnership with Aldawlia Rent a Car and its strategy to expand operations in Libya, with a new Thrifty Car Rental office opening this year at Tripoli International Airport.

The alliance will increase Thrifty's services in the region, enabling the company to cater to North Africa's growing tourism sector.

"With Libya's tourism sector experiencing robust growth, the number of rental cars on the road has risen exponentially.

Thrifty is successfully meeting this increasing demand with a new office opening to better serve customers' increasing needs. No other rental agency can offer the rates we offer, the sheer range of models, or the exemplary customer service," said Sam Eltibi, executive director of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, MENA and Asia Pacific.

Tourism is on the rise, bringing increased demand for hotel accommodation and for vehicle capacity at airports such as Tripoli International.

A multi-million dollar renovation of Libyan airports has recently been approved by the government to address additional travel demand. According to government sources, travel and tourism in Libya should increase by 20% by 2010.

The new Thrifty office at Tripoli International Airport will include a rental fleet of saloon cars, pick-up trucks, mini-vans and buses, all of which are covered by comprehensive insurance.

"Thrifty's market differentiators include quality, clean cars readily available, and a consistent level of service for both tourists and local residents.

Our intention is to install and improve on every aspect of our operation in order to exceed customer needs and expectation when renting a car in Libya," said Eltibi.

“The opportunity to partner with a leading global brand like Thrifty Car Rental will further expand the group's presence on the international car rental map and will capitalize on Thrifty's growing network and reservation platform in order to increase inbound business related to both tourist walk-ins and local rentals," said Ahmed Ghattour, of Aldawlia Rent a Car.

In addition, a Thrifty outlet can be found downtown Libya, 110 First September Street St. Tripoli.