Draft:Saba Kiknadze

Saba Kiknadze

Saba Kiknadze (b. Oct 29 1962 – d. Feb 06, 2024) was a prominent Georgian entrepreneur, architect, and a pioneering figure in the development of Georgia’s tourism industry. Recognized for his substantial contributions to the nation's global tourism profile, Kiknadze played a critical role in transforming Georgia into a celebrated travel destination.

Early Life and Education

Saba Kiknadze was born in 1962 in the Republic of Georgia. He pursued his education in architecture at the Georgian Technical University, where he gained foundational knowledge in design and structural planning. His architectural background provided him with skills applicable to various fields, influencing his entrepreneurial ventures across sectors such as tourism and business.

Early Entrepreneurship

Kiknadze’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1986, a time when Georgia was part of the Soviet Union. He was one of the early entrepreneurs in the post-Soviet independent Georgia, initiating ventures across various sectors including architecture, design, publishing, and advertising.

Contributions to Tourism In the early 1990s, Kiknadze was instrumental in introducing Georgia to the global tourism market. His strategic involvement in showcasing Georgia at ITB Berlin in 1993 marked a significant milestone. This was the beginning of Georgia’s continuous presence at the event, culminating in its status as the official partner country in 2023.

As the founder, shareholder, and former CEO of regional franchisee partner companies of global brands like American Express Travel and Carlson Wagonlit Travel, Kiknadze expanded the country’s tourism reach. He also established the GHG Georgian Hospitality Group, driving advancements in Georgia's hospitality sector.

Caucasus Travel

In 1991, Saba Kiknadze co-founded Caucasus Travel, one of Georgia's first and most influential travel companies. As a founding partner, Kiknadze was instrumental in establishing the company as a pioneering force in the region's tourism industry. Under his leadership, Caucasus Travel introduced Georgia and the greater Caucasus area to international tourists through innovative travel packages and sustainable tourism practices.

The company developed a diverse range of tours, including cultural, adventure, wine, and eco-tourism experiences, aimed at offering travelers an immersive experience of Georgia’s rich heritage and natural landscapes. Recognizing the importance of global exposure, Caucasus Travel became an associated member of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), enhancing its credibility and expanding its reach within the international market.

Kiknadze's strategic vision and commitment to quality earned Caucasus Travel significant accolades, including the Golden Brand award, which recognized the company's excellence and leadership in the tourism sector. Moreover, the company played a crucial role in positioning Georgia on the global tourism map by participating in major international travel exhibitions, such as ITB Berlin. These efforts were pivotal in showcasing Georgia’s cultural richness and natural beauty to a worldwide audience, significantly contributing to the country's tourism development.

[[File:Founders of Caucasus Travel Saba Kiknadze, Nick Erkomaishvili, David Rakviashvili.jpg|thumb|Founders of Caucasus TravelSaba Kiknadze, Nick Erkomaishvili,

David Rakviashvili]]

Public Service

From 2004 to 2006, Kiknadze served as the Chairman of the Georgian Department of Tourism and Resorts (NTO). In this role, he laid the groundwork for the development of Georgia’s tourism infrastructure. He was pivotal in creating hospitality industry clusters, establishing legal frameworks for tourism, and initiating public-private partnership programs. Other Ventures

Kiknadze’s entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond tourism. He ventured into various fields, including IT, winery, and microbiology technologies. He was involved in startup development and provided mentorship to emerging entrepreneurs.

Legacy and Recognition

Saba Kiknadze is celebrated as a national hero in Georgian tourism. His innovative approaches and leadership not only elevated Georgia’s profile as a travel destination but also fostered a sustainable tourism industry. He co-founded the Creative Business Cup Georgia and was a founding member of the Georgian Angel Investors Club, contributing significantly to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Georgia.

Personal Life

Saba Kiknadze was married to Maia Kiknadze. They had two sons, Giorgi and Irakli Kiknadze. He battled a rare form of cancer for several years before passing away on February 06, 2024