Jinny Tiaga and Pruden Lyn “Cheng” Danos are the founders of Victory Star Travel & Tourism in Dubai. JONATHAN YBERA/EXPAT MEDIA

In a city known for ambition and reinvention, two young Filipina entrepreneurs are quietly reshaping how travelers experience the UAE. Jinny Tiaga and Pruden Lyn “Cheng” Danos, founders of Victory Star Travel & Tourism in Dubai, did not begin with grand plans of building a travel brand. What they had was something simpler and far more powerful: experience, trust, and a shared commitment to helping people. “We saw the opportunity because our clients trusted us,” Jinny tells Expat Media. “So we asked ourselves, why not build something of our own?” Victory Star Travel & Tourism was born in 2021, at the height of uncertainty for global travel. Before launching their company, Jinny and Cheng were working in business documentation, helping clients set up companies and secure licenses in the UAE. In the process, they noticed a growing pattern. “A lot of our clients were asking about tourist visas, tickets, and travel assistance,” Jinny recalls. “That’s when we realized there was a gap we could fill.” What began as a response to client needs quickly evolved into a full-service travel and tourism business. Today, Victory Star offers visa processing, flight bookings, local tours, and visa change services, including airport-to-airport and bus-to-bus options. Their services extend to desert safari experiences and discounted airline tickets, making travel more accessible for residents and tourists alike.

Building a business on ethics

Starting a business in Dubai came with its share of challenges. “I was shocked at first,” Jinny admits. “There was no formula to follow.” But instead of being discouraged, the two founders leaned into what they knew best: consistency and service. “We wanted to build a company that is ethical and committed to honest service,” Cheng says. “We’ve seen how customers struggle with other travel agencies. We didn’t want that.” Their approach quickly gained traction. Word of mouth spread, bringing in both new clients and those who had worked with them previously. What also sets Victory Star apart is its accessibility. The founders and their team provide round-the-clock support, often working beyond regular hours to resolve urgent travel concerns. “We don’t mind working 24/7 if it means helping a client,” Jinny says. Their background in documentation also gives them a unique advantage. “Most of the time, clients come to us for help after their visa got rejected at another agency,” she explains. “We understand the system, so we can identify what went wrong and help fix it.” From correcting application errors to assisting stranded travelers in Bahrain or Oman, their work often goes beyond routine bookings. One of their most memorable moments reflects the level of commitment they bring to their clients. An elderly passenger missed her flight while processing her visa exit. With flights fully booked, the situation seemed impossible to resolve. “But we tried everything,” Jinny says. “We were able to get her on another flight on the same day.” For the founders, moments like these define their business. “It shows how flexible we can be,” she adds. “Not just that time, but every day.”

Two different journeys, one shared vision

Both founders bring distinct backgrounds that complement each other. Jinny, originally from Bacolod City, built her career in sales, including a role with SM Supermalls. Her passion for closing deals and building relationships naturally transitioned into entrepreneurship. “I love sales,” she says. “It gives me an adrenaline rush when I close a deal.” Cheng, from Davao del Norte, studied tourism and hospitality before exploring different paths, including working as a dental aide and undergoing military training. “The training was very tough,” she recalls. “It gave me a lot of respect for people in the army.” She later trained as a flight attendant, bringing a customer-focused mindset into the travel industry. The two met in Dubai in 2019, in what they describe as a challenging work environment. “We were not even friends at first,” Jinny says. “I usually kept to myself.” Cheng, however, saw something different. “She was not part of the toxicity,” Cheng says. “That’s why I approached her.” That decision would later lead to a business partnership built on trust. Running a business together requires alignment, and both founders are quick to acknowledge each other’s strengths. “Jinny has a strong personality,” Cheng says. “She is hardworking and knows how to separate business and personal life.” Jinny, on the other hand, values Cheng’s authenticity. “She is patient and real,” Jinny says. “She became my pillar.” Their dynamic is rooted in mutual respect, a value they both identify as central to their business. From a small startup, Victory Star Travel has grown into a trusted name among Filipino travelers in the UAE. Their ambitions, however, go far beyond Dubai. “In the next five to 10 years, we want at least 10 branches,” Jinny says. “Not just in the UAE, but also in Nepal, Ethiopia, India, and the Philippines.” For both founders, the journey is still unfolding. What remains constant is their purpose. “This business allows us to help people,” Jinny says. “That’s why we know we made the right choice.” ICA/Expat Media Visit Victory Star Travel & Tourism in GR 17, New Al Safiya Building, Hor Al Anz, Dubai or reach out via victorystartravel.com, +971 4 2846974 or +971 56 6894418

Quick fire Q&A with Jinny and Cheng

Who is the risk-taker between the two of you? Cheng: Jinny definitely takes on more risks! Who is more likely to double-check every flight detail? Jinny: Me. I’m very strict. Client request that made you laugh Cheng: The client who made her flight like a jeepney ride. If Victory Star were a travel destination, where would it be. Jinny: Switzerland Cheng: That was our dream this year, but we ended up in Georgia. Most unforgettable travel mishap you’ve handled Jinny: Azerbaijan. Wrong hotel booking. Your go-to stress reliever after a hectic season? Jinny: Watching a movie Cheng: Playing the guitar, or just staying in bed. Country on your bucket list that you haven’t sold to clients yet Jinny: Azerbaijan. If you weren’t in travel, what business would you be running? Cheng: Events management. One Filipino value that guides your business decisions Jinny: Respect. Cheng: I agree. UAE spot you still get excited about visiting? Jinny: Ras Al Khaimah. Cheng: Khor Fakkan is the best. Your guilty pleasure after closing a big deal? Jinny: Sana pala tinaasan natin ang presyo! (I wish we charged higher!) Finish this sentence: “We knew we were ready for this business when…” Jinny: When we lost everything. Cheng: It helped us start again. ALSO READ: How to save smart for your next travel This story also appears in the Expat Media Special Edition magazine. Grab your copy today at partner distributors across the UAE.
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