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A DDP PUBLICATION
Pages: 16
ddppl.com
travtalkmiddleeast.com
Vol. VIII No. 12; December 2012
Celebrating 80 glorious years ............................................................................05 Middle East: A good outbound region ..................................................................06 Saudi Arabia, UAE & Kuwait on top ....................................................................13
Xmas week special offers Come December, it’s Winter, it’s Christmas, it’s New Year; a festive time for all ME travellers to take an affordable break. To celebrate this season, the airlines and hotels promote new routes and services by slashing fares for a limited period. Even the travel industry gets a boost this season. their travel agents and tour operators for a ‘Miracle Thailand Card’ to help them take advantage of discounted shopping during their stay,” informed Suraphon Svetasreni, Governor, Tourism Authority of Thailand.
S U S M I TA G H O S H
W
hile most discounts from other carriers exclude peak holidays, Lufthansa travellers can avail the lower fares even on popular dates like Christmas, New Year and Easter, but must be booked in advance to secure seats. Lufthansa German Airlines has launched its winter sale, with 30 per cent discount on fare to some of the holiday destinations in Europe flying from Dubai and Abu Dhabi via Frankfurt. The travel period starts any date before March 31, 2013 with the return flights on or before June 30, 2013. “Planning for holidays can be a daunting task especially when prices become prohibitive. Flying with Lufthansa is more enjoyable with our new product upgrades like ‘FlyNet’, the most advanced on-board broadband internet hotspot worldwide,” said Peter Pollak, General Manager, UAE and Director Gulf, Afghanistan & Iraq, Lufthansa. The 72-hour marathon sale of Qatar Airways that
Akbar Al Baker
Peter Pollak
CEO Qatar Airways
General Manager, UAE and Director Gulf, Afghanistan & Iraq, Lufthansa
We offer travellers another opportunity to avail our special fares in our latest global sale continued from November 7 till 9, offered travellers an opportunity to travel, to a variety of destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas at very attractive
Flying is more fun with ‘FlyNet’, the advanced on-board broadband internet hotspot worldwide fares. The travel window is generous over a six-month period from November 12, 2012 till May 31, 2013. Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways said, “As we have reached the end of the year,
Suraphon Svetasreni
Carol Maddison
Governor Tourism Authority of Thailand
UAE manager VisitBritain
The ‘Miracle Thailand Card’ is of great use to convention and exhibition delegates visiting Thailand we offer travellers another opportunity, to avail our special fares in our latest global sale, just two months after our last international promotion. Whether travelling for leisure or business, they
Great Britain provides a myriad of opportunities for Gulf visitors to soak up the festive spirit can visit popular destinations and discover newly-introduced routes, available on our rapidly expanding network.” “Visitors to Thailand this high season should ask
“The card can also be of great use to convention and exhibition delegates visiting Thailand during its validity,” he further said. Launched by Krung Thai Bank (KTB), in partnership with the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), TAT has supported this initiative and helped all visitors to get a better value for money from their shopping experience. Offered as part of a campaign entitled, ‘Miracle Thailand Card for the Miracle Journey in Thailand’, the ‘Miracle Thailand Card’ is valid for use till December 31, 2012. “Great Britain provides a myriad of opportunities for the Gulf visitors, to soak up the festive spirit, from London to Cardiff to Edinburgh, all showcasing festive markets and Contd. on page 7
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NEWS FOREIGN EXCHANGE DIRHAM VALUE
(Subject to variation) Country
Currency
(As on 26-11-2012)
CN Buy
CN Sell
USA ..........................USD ................3.653..............3.685 UK ............................GBP ..............5.7882............6.0345 Egypt ........................EGP ................0.605..............0.711 Euro ..........................EUR ..............4.6739............4.8801 Canada......................CAD ..............3.6457............3.7742
India Tourism evening in Kuwait India Tourism, Dubai, in association with the Embassy of India, Kuwait, organised ‘Incredible India Evening’ on October 31, 2012 at Hotel Crowne Plaza to promote tourism to India. The event was attended by over 90 representatives from the travel industry and airline companies of Kuwait. T T B U R E AU
Tourism, including white water rafting and mountaineering, skiing, spas, Medical Tourism, wellness centers, shopping possibilities, so on and so forth.
Bahrain ....................BHD ..............9.5739............9.9137 Oman ........................OMR................9.405............9.6512 Kuwait ......................KWD............12.8168..........13.2526 Saudi Arabia ............SAR ..............0.9625............0.9972 Qatar ........................QAR ..............0.9944............1.0209 Australia ..................AUD ..............3.7746............3.9022 Japan ........................JPY................0.0436............0.0458 Philippines ................PHP ..............0.0878............0.9103 Singapore..................SGD ..............2.9477............3.0817 India ........................INR................0.0654............0.0676 Pakistan ....................PKR ..............0.0375............0.0392 Bangladesh ..............BDT ..............0.0441..............0.046 Sri Lanka ..................LKR ..............0.0276............0.0287 Nepal ........................NPR ..................0.05..............0.056 Morocco ....................MAD................0.405..............0.525 Switzerland ..............CHF ..............3.8773............4.0522 South Africa ..............ZAR ................0.485..............0.553
A
ir India, Jet Airways, Kuwait Airways and Air Arabia which are operating flights to India from Kuwait took part, in the event, along with tour operators and travel agents. The tour operators promoting India from the Gulf region and Indian Heritage, a local company which deals in Indian handicrafts also participated in the event. In his address, Satish C Mehta, Ambassador – India, Kuwait, lauded the IndiaKuwait bilateral relations and the bond of deep understanding and friendship between the people of the two countries. He also expressed that by promoting tourism from Kuwait to India, a new dimension will be added to bilateral relations. Thereafter, Vikas Rustagi, Regional Director
Vikas Rustagi Regional Director India Tourism Dubai
(West Asia & Africa), India Tourism Dubai made a detailed presentation with slides and video clips on the wide range of opportunities for tourism in India covering inter alia, flora and fauna, wildlife, heritage sites, palace hotels, heritage hotels, beaches, luxury trains and luxury stays, backwaters, Adventure
“India has something for everyone to like. More than 6.29 million foreign tourists have visited India in 2011,” he underscored. He requested the representatives of Kuwait tourism industry present at the event, to promote India as a tourism destination. Ajay Sinha, Country Manager - Kuwait, Air India introduced the airline’s webbased tour planning and booking system. Indian Heritage, Kuwait, displayed a variety of Indian handicrafts.
The participating Airlines; Air India, Jet Airways, Kuwait Airways and Air Arabia also showcased their products. A raffle draw was also a part of the event during which four prizes - air ticket for Kuwait-India-Kuwait sectors were handed over to the participating guests, sponsored by participating Airlines - Air India, Kuwait Airways, Air Arabia and Jet Airways.
Event Participants Air India, Jet Airways, Kuwait Airways and Air Arabia took part in the event along with tour operators and travel agents The tour operators promoting India from the Gulf region and Indian Heritage also participated in the event
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GUEST COLUMN EDITORIAL
Is online the only way in future?
2012 – Robust year for Gulf Tourism
According, to a new PhoCusWright research that was co-sponsored by Travelport online travel sales in the Middle East will grow 31 per cent from 2011 to almost US$ 10.4 billion this year and is set to reach US$ 15.8 billion by 2014.
T
T
he travel industry in the Gulf region remained robust throughout 2012, according to market indications. The latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer stated that international tourist arrivals grew by 4% between January and August 2012 compared to the same period of 2011.
UNWTO remains confident that 1bn international tourists will travel the world by the end of the year. Latest data from IATA reveals that ME carriers experienced the strongest traffic growth, by far, with the demand up by 13.3% Year-on-Year. Interestingly, the UAE is spearheading a surge in Middle East online tourism with 60% of all webbased travel bookings originating from the Emirates, a Travelport co-sponsored research revealed. Participants in the UAE pavilions at the WTM 2012 are also expecting a massive increase in tourist numbers. DTCM announced the key performance indicators of the emirate’s rapidly-expanding hotel industry for the first nine months of the year (January-September 2012). Dubai hotel establishments showcased a 9% rise in the first nine months of 2012 and played host to 72,31,670 guests against 66,41,076 over the corresponding period in 2011. Abu Dhabi’s participation also produced outstanding results for the region’s stakeholders by securing a record of more than 500 meetings with key business partners.
he online travel industry in the Middle East is flourishing at an unprecedented rate with online bookings growing by nearly a third this year, according to the new research carried out by the global travel market research company. It also reveals that in 2014, online bookings will make up nearly a quarter (22 per cent) of all travel bookings made in the region. Earlier in November, I was party to an interesting round table discussion, in which it inadvertently transpired that out of 12 people in the room at least ten had not set foot in a travel agent’s office in the past three years. Some had never visited a travel agent at all… This once again serves as a confirmation that more and more of us are turning online to book our travel. Indeed, according to a recent study co-sponsored by Travelport, online travel industry in the Middle East is flourishing at an unprecedented rate with online bookings growing by nearly a third this year. But what exactly is driving this new focus on web travel bookings? As I see it, there are three key factors contributing to this. First of all, Internet use in the region has exploded in the recent years. In the UAE alone, 78 per cent of the population is online. Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter continue growing at a rapid pace. At the end of
In a move that will make a positive difference to the cruise industry in the UAE, the government has issued a decree allowing multiple entry visit visas for the first time. IATA has rightly said that there are immense opportunities to further develop aviation in the MENA region as the Gulf carrier’s growth story is amazing.
Publisher : SanJeet Director : Sumeera Bahl Editorial Director : Rupali Narasimhan Editor : Deepa Sethi Assistant Editor (ME) : Susmita Ghosh Desk Editor : Archana Sharma Sub Editor : Raina Mandal Design : Ruchi Sinha / NN Misra Head Sales & Marketing (ME) : Akassh Kapoor Manager Advertising : Geetika Pathak Circulation Manager : Ashok Rana Manager Production : Anil Kharbanda
Online culture is playing an increasingly important role in shaping our social preferences, which determine how we book our travel Rabih Saab President and MD, ME and Africa, Travelport
2011, there were 18 million Middle East users on Facebook and that’s more than twice the entire population of the UAE. As such, online culture is playing an increasingly important role in shaping our social preferences, which determine how we book our travel. The second factor is the predominant presence of the young population in this region, 44 per cent of the total Middle East population is less than 20 years old. In Saudi Arabia, this number has gone up to 50 per cent. The online popularity is no doubt being driven by this new generation of e-savvy travellers who want to have endless travel choices literally at their fingertips. The third factor, as I see it, is the increasing confidence in online debit and credit card payments. This is a slow evolution and I will admit that many consumers in the Middle East still fear using a credit card for online transactions. As such, banks across the region are increasingly coming up with creative solutions such as subsidiary online credit
cards with limited credit value, to encourage spenders to opt for plastic instead of paper. There is still a long way to go on this but we can definitely see the tide turning slowly. So, considering all this, the logical question on the lips of everyone working in the travel industry is: what does this major move online mean for the traditional ‘bricks and mortar’ travel agent? My view is that there will always be a place for traditional travel agents in the Middle East, booking travel one-o-one is a long-standing tradition in the region and I believe it will remain as such. With more of the travel business moving online, agents need to become more e-savvy to remain relevant. At Travelport, we work closely with travel agents to help them meet these demands by offering broader content through faster distribution and sharing our expertise so that they can firmly establish themselves in this rapidly evolving industry.
In November 2012, Travelport announced the roll-out of our industry-leading Travelport Universal API (uAPI) technology in the Middle East and Africa. Travelport uAPI enables travel agencies to streamline the booking process by re-aggregating currently fragmented content from the GDS and other sources. It also offers the broadest range of content available with full access to Travelport’s GDS air, hotel and car content, as well as High Speed Rail suppliers and Low Cost Carriers. This is truly an exciting time for the Middle East travel industry and through our innovative technology solutions Travelport is right at the heart of it. As for me, I prefer to book short breaks online but still visit a travel agent when planning longer family holidays. I suppose, I just like to have the best of both the worlds….
Rabih Saab President and Managing Director Middle East and Africa Travelport
Kuwait plays host to India
India Tourism, Dubai in association with the Embassy of India, Kuwait organised ‘Incredible India Evening’ on October 31, 2012 at Hotel Crowne Plaza to promote tourism to India.
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AVIATION
Celebrating 80 glorious years Being the first airline to fly in the UAE airspace since 1932, British Airways has experienced remarkable growth in the UAE aviation sector. Pioneering many aviation firsts, the airline is presently into a £5 billion investment plan including new aircraft, smarter cabins, elegant lounges and new technologies. T T B U R E AU
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rom six days to six-and-ahalf hours - this is what the difference 80 years made for British Airways. Under the banner of Imperial Airways, a forerunner to British Airways, the first flight took off on October 2, 1932 from Croydon, South of London to the Middle East. It took six days to reach Sharjah by October 7, 1932. The aircraft travelled at 160kmh and carried fewer than 20 passengers. Today, 80 years later, a British Airways flight from London Heathrow to Dubai on a Boeing 747-400 takes approximately six and a half hours, travels at 988kmh and can carry up to 345 passengers across four classes.
Paolo De Renzis, Regional Commercial Manager, Middle East, British Airways, informed,
“The Middle East has been a key market for British Airways for 80 years. Presently we are operating 68 weekly flights between the GCC and London from eight cities in six countries as part of our winter schedule. The airline has also started flying to Lebanon and Jordan.” The airline had also launched a special fare offer for their Middle Eastern travellers to coincide with its 80th anniversary. For people travelling to Europe, the USA and Canada, the airline gave special discounted fares on
this region for 80 years. Some of the most iconic aircraft have flown here, from the flying boats that landed on Dubai Creek to the Concorde, serving Bahrain from 1976 to 1980 and more recently the Boeing 747, which is commonly referred to as the jumbo jet,” Renzis informed. Paolo De Renzis Regional Commercial Manager – Middle East British Airways
bookings before October 31, 2012. The fares were applicable for First, Club World (Business Class), World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy) and World Traveller (Economy). It was valid for travel before March 31, 2013. “We have celebrated many great milestones in
More flights for National Day Oman Air recently celebrated their National Day on November 18 by offering an 18 per cent discount on fares for both Business and Economy Class return flights to 39 destinations around its global network. T T B U R E AU
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man Air had participated in World Travel Market 2012 to celebrate their five years of operating daily nonstop and direct route between Muscat and London. The route has introduced new A330 aircraft and unveiled its First Class cabin, the launch of the world’s first full inflight connectivity with both mobile phone and Wi-Fi internet access.
relationships and raising awareness of Oman Air’s outstanding products, reliability and value,” informed Masoud Dad Mohd Al Balushi, Country Manager UAE, Oman Air.
Tehran service helps the airline to continue disseminate Omani traditions and hospitality, expanding cooperation and furthermore, promoting the economy in the two friendly countries,” he added.
Oman Air has recorded 55 per cent increase in passengers carried with 75 per cent increase in number of flights between Muscat and Salalah during Eid Al Adha this year.
Oman Air offers flights between Salalah and Dubai, as an addition to its promotion of Salalah, thus, offering an even greater convenience for visitors travelling from destinations around the Gulf region.
“We operated 42 extra flights on the domestic route between October 19 and November 3, 2012, in addition to the 172 scheduled services. Masoud Dad Mohd Al Balushi Country Manager - UAE Oman Air
“WTM is an important forum for creating new partnerships with the travel trade, renewing existing
The total number of flights reached 214, which represents 92 more flights compared to 2011,” informed Al Balushi. “Oman Air has officially launched its new destination Tehran in Iran, recently. The launch of the new Muscat-
QUICK READ Majestic Hotel Tower has announced to be a member of Great Hotels of the World – Premium Collection. Chosen for its exceptional Meeting, Incentive and Corporate facilities, Majestic Hotel Tower has been featured in the next issue of Great Hotels of the World Meetings, Incentive & Corporate Travel Collection Directory.
The building of British Airways’ first A380 ‘Superjumbo’ aircraft has reached a major milestone, with the installation of the four giant Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines. The engines, which each produces 70,000 lbs of thrust (or approximately 30,000 horsepower, the equivalent of 300 family cars), were attached to aircraft ‘MSN095’, the first of 12 A380s the airline has on order. The aircraft is due to be delivered in July 2013.
DECEMBER, 2012
TRAVTALK
5
First year Anniversary Ethiopian Airlines will celebrate it’s first year anniversary of being a Star Alliance Member carrier, since it’s induction on December 13, 2011. “The member airlines of Star Alliance network are among the most respected in the world. All member airlines, comply with the highest industry standards of customer service, security and technical infrastructure which Ethiopian Airlines is proud to be a part
of it,” stated Haileab Netsereab, Regional Manager, Gulf & Pakistan, Ethiopian Airlines. Presently, the airline has a fleet of 52 aircraft and while 41 new aircraft are on order. It has also become the first airline other than a non-Japanese carrier to own a B-787 Dreamliner, on August 17, 2012 that landed on August 19, 2012 at Dubai International Airport making it the first in the region.
15% guaranteed reward In partnership with MasterCard and dnata Travel, Emirates NBD launched ‘Emirates NBD dnata World MasterCard Credit Card’. With 15 per cent guaranteed rewards to the cardholders on all purchases at dnata Travel, this is the first credit card in the UAE that does not charge foreign currency transaction fee on overseas transactions. The card also leverages the strong Bon Appetit dining programme offering
discounts at over 600 restaurants within the UAE. The cardholders will also receive up to 5,000 dnata Points worth AED 5,000, against a joining fee of AED 2,500. They will enjoy many advantages and benefits like 10 per cent Rewards for Duty Free shopping worldwide, up to 2 per cent Rewards for all other retail spends and zero per cent foreign currency transaction fee.
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TRAVTALK
STATISTICS
DECEMBER, 2012
Middle East: A good outbound region The Middle East region is one of the world’s smallest, yet fast growing, tourist generating regions, with an average annual growth rate of 9.9% from 2000-2010. The region promises to be a lucrative market for travel destinations. T T B U R E AU
G
CC countries that are constituted of a sizeable proportion of expatriates in their population have a high proportion of outbound VFR travel. Business travel that is
estimated to account for about one-quarter of outbound travel from the Middle East is characterised by travel to intra-regional destinations (60%) and inter-regional destinations (40%), the latter accounting for a fair propor-
United Arab Emirates
Outbound Trips, 2009 share (%)
tion of MICE Tourism. Medical or health-related tourism is another reason why an increasing number of Middle Eastern travellers go abroad. Intra-regional destinations such as Jordan, Lebanon, UAE and Saudi
Arabia attract a number of medical tourists. Among inter-regional destinations, India, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia are popular destinations for Medical Tourism. European countries such as Germany
Saudi Arabia
Outbound Trips, 2009 share (%)
and Switzerland also attract the more affluent medical tourists from the Middle East. Data on the purpose of travel for three main outbound travel markets – Saudi Arabia, UAE and Egypt is provided, highlighting the differences
in travel motivations in key individual source markets. According to PATA, Arab families prefer apartments and connecting rooms. They prefer to cook while on holiday and hence like to stay in apartments.
Egypt
Outbound Trips, 2009 share (%)
Leisure VFR Religious Medical/health Other personal Business Source: Market Vision – United Arab Emirates Outbound Travel Market report, April 2010
Source: Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities – Tourism Statistical Database
Source: Market Vision
Source: World Tourism Organization
Popular Travel Destinations from the Middle East ORIGIN
DESTINATION – EUROPE
DESTINATION – OTHER
Saudi Arabia
Switzerland, France, United Kingdom, Turkey
Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Morocco
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy
Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia
Kuwait
United Kingdom, Switzerland, France, Germany, Turkey
United States of America, Malaysia, Thailand
Qatar
United Kingdom, France, Switzerland, Germany
United States of America, Malaysia, Thailand
Bahrain
United Kingdom, Turkey, France
United States of America, India, Malaysia
Oman
United Kingdom, Germany, France
India, Malaysia
Egypt
Italy, Turkey, United Kingdom, Greece, Switzerland
China, United States of America, Hong Kong (China), Malaysia, Thailand
Lebanon
Armenia, Cyprus, Greece, Turkey, France, Italy
Nigeria, United States of America, China
Jordan
Turkey
China, Hong Kong (China), United States of America, Malaysia
Syria
Turkey, Armenia, Romania
China, Morocco
Iran
Turkey, Azerbaijan, United Kingdom, Italy
China, Malaysia, Singapore, India
Accommodation Preferences of United Arab Emirates Travellers – by Nationality (%) 39
38
23 10
8
Nationals Expatriates
23
7 2
5-star or 4-star hotel
Furnished apartment/villa
3-star, 2-star or budget hotel
Private accommodation
5
Other (hostel, guest house, time share)
Source: Market Vision
Type of accommodation
45
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COVER STORY
DECEMBER, 2012
TRAVTALK
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Winter wonderland in the travel industry Contd. from page 1
family-friendly activities. It offers a world-class holiday experience like none other,” asserted Carol Maddison, UAE manager, VisitBritain. From November 2012 till January 2013, families from the Gulf can roam around winter wonderlands throughout the UK. The UK’s winter festive season holds something special for everyone, including late night shopping, traditional markets, magical fireworks, holiday cuisine and exciting year-end events. Jumeirah at Etihad Towers have created special packages and deals for tourists and UAE residents to celebrate the festive occasion. “We are inviting our guests to partake and choose from our array of seasonal delights consisting of a traditional festive dinner, a variety of delicious goodies, an exquisite Christmas-themed party, rejuvenating spa offers and many more,” informed Doris Greif, General Manager, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers. “We recognise the valuable contribution of our travel trade partners, in promoting our hotel to guests, makes a traveller experience our gastronomic offerings, luxurious facilities and exceptional leisure activities. We encourage them to get in touch with us directly, so that, we can explore various opportunities for future collaboration. We have travel
Doris Greif
James Wilson
General Manager Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
General Manager Dusit Thani Dubai
We encourage our travel trade partners to get in touch with us directly to explore various opportunities for the future industry rates in Jumeirah's Global Distribution System,” she added. James Wilson, General Manager, Dusit Thani Dubai stated, “Seasonal celebrations kick off early at Dusit Thani Dubai with all of the hotel’s 24 floor restaurants coming together to create ultimate Festive Brunch for the week ahead. Whatever your taste is we have something or the other for all the family’s cravings this winter.” Culinary highlights include international festive
The hotel’s 24 floor restaurants will come together to create the ultimate Festive Brunch for the festive week Christmas Eve buffet in The Californian with a wide variety of cuisines and traditional holiday treats to suit all palates. PAX will be serving Italian delights traditional with the European Nation’s celebrations and on New Year’s Eve, Benjarong will be up with a six course feast fit for Thai Royalty. Tilal Liwa Hotel has an array of festive treats lined up this Christmas and New Year, for a magical holiday season. “We will welcome 2013 by revelling in New
Emirates profits growing strong On November 12, the airline announced its robust half yearly results. The revenue surpassed US$ 10 billion in six months marks
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline and Group
the first time in the Group’s history. Net profit for the first six months of the present fiscal year till September 30, 2012 is AED 2.1 billion (US$ 575 million) up by 68 per cent from AED 1.3 billion (US$ 343 million) compared to September 30, 2011. In the first half of the 2012-13 fiscal year, Emirates
net profit is AED 1.7 billion (US$ 464 million) up by 104 per cent from AED 836 million (US$ 228 million).
“Our results speak for themselves. The instability in the market over the past six months has put Emirates to the test and once again we have risen to the challenge,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group. The Group continued to invest and expand its employee base, increasing overall staff count by more than 8 per cent in just six months to nearly 68,000. During the first six months
of the fiscal year, Emirates has received 13 wide-body aircraft, including two A380s and ten Boeing 777s and one freighter, with more than 15 new aircraft scheduled to be delivered before March 31, 2013. As the fleet increased, the airline further invested in its network by adding five new destinations that have joined 10 new routes added since September 30, 2011, for a total of 15. Emirates is now flying to 126 destinations up from 114 in 2011 to 74 countries compared to 67 last year. The airlines carried 18.7 million passengers since April 1, 2012, up by 15.4 per cent compared to 2011. Emirates revenue including other operating income of AED 35.4 billion was higher by 17 per cent compared with AED 30.2 billion recorded in 2011.
Ayman Ashor
Steve Odell
General Manager Tilal Liwa Hotel
President, Europe and Asia Pacific Silverseas Cruiseline
We will welcome 2013 by revelling in New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and celebrate the New Year countdown Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and celebrate New Year countdown with outdoor themed event. Room packages are also available for a relaxing
With our new offerings, guests will only pay for the components they want to avail from Silversea holiday,” said Ayman Ashor, General Manager, Tilal Liwa Hotel. Silversea Cruiseline has introduced a new Silver
Privilege Fares and Fare Guarantee Programme. With Silversea Privilege Fares, guests will only pay for the components they want to avail from Silversea, whether it’s strictly a cruise, air, hotel or other optional packages. The line has also introduced a new Fare Guarantee Programme for all voyages departing on or after June 1, 2013, effective for new Silver Privilege bookings made on or after November 1, 2012. “By offering one simple price with our new Silver Privilege fares, we're making it easier for the travellers to cut through the clutter that’s in the marketplace and understand the actual price of the components of their vacation. In addition, when these new fares are enhanced by our Fare Guarantee Programme, our guests can plan their vacations far in advance, taking advantage of the best suite availability and also enjoy the peace of mind in knowing they will be protected should those fares be reduced,” explained Steve Odell, President, Europe and Asia Pacific, Silverseas Cruiseline.
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TRAVTALK
DECEMBER, 2012
FAMILY ALBUM
WTM 2012 starts with a roaring success The first three days of the World Travel Market 2012, the leading global event for the travel industry, experienced an impressive visitor increase of 4 per cent. The 3-day event witnessed 38,735 visitors walk through the doors of ExCeL – London to attend the event. The pulsating B2B event presented a diverse range of destinations and travel products to the travel industry worldwide. Another opportunity to meet, network, negotiate and conduct business with the global travel trade awaits on Nov 4-7, 2013.
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FAMILY ALBUM
DECEMBER, 2012
TRAVTALK
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Business networking with cheers & smiles
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10 Q. A.
Q. A.
Q. A.
Q. A.
TRAVTALK
CRUISES
DECEMBER, 2012
Tell us about TUI Cruises being docked in Dubai for the first time? TUI Cruises GmbH is a joint venture of TUI AG and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Its first ship is the Mein Schiff 1 with 962 cabins. The second ship is the Mein Schiff 2, a well being vessel with 956 cabins that is docked in Dubai for the first time. Till March 24, 2013, the Emirate will be the new base port from where it will set sail 20 times on its one-week itineraries. What all-inclusive concept does TUI cruiseline offers? TUI Cruises, the first German cruise operator in its segment, offers its passengers the Premium All Inclusive concept. With this cost transparency and cruise budgeting improvement, we provide the passengers from sports and wellness, the ocean panorama to a romantic evening for two. What are the unique offerings for children on-board? On Mein Schiff 1 and Mein Schiff 2, the kids club includes sports, games and imaginative creativity and excitement for all. There are special edutainment activities organised on-board for kids of all ages, starting from 3 years old.
Celebrity Solstice maiden call to Dubai With a capacity of accommodating 2,850 guests and 16 passenger decks and gross tonnage of 1,22,000, Celebrity Solstice, one of the most decorated ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet, docked in Dubai for the first time. T T B U R E AU
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fter a 16-night journey from Barcelona passing through Egypt and Jordan on her way from Europe to Australia, Celebrity Solstice stopped in Dubai for two days. Joining the vessel in Dubai, the cruise lovers went on a 12night cruise to Oman, India, Malaysia and Singapore. On November 23, the ship had sailed from Singapore on a 16-night journey to Sydney. Once in Australia, Celebrity Solstice will offer a choice of several 12/13-night
sailings between Sydney and Auckland in New Zealand. There are two complete circumnavigations of Australia between Sydney and Perth (Fremantle) while many of the itineraries include overnight stays in Sydney. “Celebrity Solstice is one of the five luxurious ships in the Solstice class that sets a new benchmark for exquisite cuisine. Celebrity Cruises offers the ultimate in premium cruising,” informed Helen Beck, Regional Director, International Representatives, EMEA for Royal Caribbean International,
How can the children explore the world outside the vessel? During the trip children can also travel around outside the vessel. For instance, the kids in the Sea Devil and Piranha group can go on special outings such as a picnic in meadows or a trip to the museum.
Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises.
“Celebrity Solstice’s passion for outstanding cuisine has taken the restaurants, the food and the overall dining experience to a new level in the cruising world. The main restaurant offers the best range of culinary dishes afloat, while The Silk Harvest restaurant serves authentic Asian food with a blend of Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine,” she informed. About 90 per cent of the vessel’s industry-first AquaClass suites face the sea and they are 15 per cent larger than those of previous Celebrity ships. Around 85 per cent of all the staterooms have verandas. Guests can walk on real grass at
Richard J Vogel Chief Executive Officer, TUI Cruises Celebrity Solstice cruising across the blue waters
Dubai welcomes Mein Schiff 2
Helen Beck Regional Director, International Representatives EMEA for Royal Caribbean International Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises
the half-acre Lawn Club, experience the art of glassblowing shows at The Corning Museum of Glass and unwind at The AquaSpa by Elemis. Celebrity Cruises sails in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South America.
Silver Cloud dons a new look
TUI Cruises made its debut call with the cruise ship Mein Schiff 2, (‘My Ship’) in Dubai on November 3, 2012. DTCM in collaboration with Cruise Silver Cloud, a cruiseline from Tourism department organised a grand welcome ceremony to honour the Silversea Cruises is sailing on her first inaugural docking of the ship at the Dubai Cruise Terminal in Mina Rashid. voyage from November 2012. S U S M I TA G H O S H
strategically favourable location in the Arabian Gulf, makes it an ideal base port for us to discover this region along with the excellent cooperation of DTCM,” informed Richard J Vogel, Chief Executive Officer, TUI Cruises.
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ubai being the home port, the luxury cruise ship will be in the Emirate till March 24, 2013, on a twenty time cruise throughout the Arabian Gulf. Ports of call on these cruises will be Muscat in Oman, Abu Dhabi in UAE and Manama in Bahrain. The initiatives and continual efforts of Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) have reaffirmed Dubai’s position as the cruise hub of the region. A combination of highly favourable factors is driving Dubai’s Cruise Tourism business towards robust growth. Hamad M Bin Mejren, Executive Director, Business Tourism, DTCM commented, “The continual investment of Dubai Government on its infrastructure and confidence of the cruise lines in this destination combining with the support and cooperation of all involved government departments, ship agents, DMC’s and other stakeholders has
Hamad M Bin Mejren Executive Director, Business Tourism, DTCM
The continuous investment by Dubai Govt. on infrastructure has helped Dubai emerge as a Cruise Tourism destination resulted in Dubai emerging as a Cruise Tourism destination of choice in the Middle East.”
Richard J Vogel Chief Executive Officer TUI Cruises
Dubai is an ‘experienced’ cruise ship metropolis with its modern stateof-the-art terminals and strategic locations “Dubai is an ‘experienced’ cruise ship metropolis. Its modern terminals and the
Dubai has been constantly enhancing its facilities and services in line with its business growth. Further, the Dubai Cruise Terminals will have three dedicated facilities to cater to cruise lines and visitors this season. In no time, Dubai will have the largest facility in the Middle East for Cruise Tourism. The facility spans over 20,000 square metre and a pier length of 1,900 metre which can accommodate up to 6 ocean-going ships simultaneously. Dubai Cruise Terminals received over 3,90,000 passengers from 102 ship calls last season. The current season will bring over 4,10,000 passengers from 115 cruise ship calls.
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ith most of the work being completed during the three-week dry dock at Fincantieri's shipyard in Palermo, Italy; Silver Cloud has welcomed the cruise lovers to a stylishly renovated shipboard environment, brimming with a host of new enhancements.
Steve Odell President, Europe and Asia Pacific Silverseas
To introduce fresh and contemporary classic atmosphere, Silver Cloud’s interior decoration has been completely revamped, including all the suites, public spaces and dining venues.
“Silversea has made a significant financial investment in this refurbishment to ensure its guests, experience a renewed sense of luxury and comfort, when sailing aboard Silver Cloud,” Steve Odell, President, Europe and Asia Pacific, Silverseas.
“The enhancements include refreshed public spaces with a renewed lobby, displaying colour palette of warm earth tones, wall treatments and artwork in the corridors, staircases and public spaces,” Odell informed. Dining developments include Le Champagne, the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant at sea, La Terrazza and the Grill. New decor for Suites was included with a new mattress custom-made exclusively for Silversea.
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HOTELS
DECEMBER, 2012
TRAVTALK
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Guests pour in City Premiere Festive rates boost arrivals City Premiere Hotel Apartment was inaugurated on May 27, 2012 with 271 suites. The hotel consists of 170 suites of 1-bedroom, 61 suites of 2-bedroom, 38 suites of 3-bedroom and 2 penthouses of 4-bedroom. T T B U R E AU
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he City Premiere Hotel Apartment’s prime location and accessibility are something that cannot be avoided. Since September
Kamal Soubra General Manager City Premiere Hotel Apartments
2012, the hotel already witnessed a lot of guests booking for their stay during December 26 - 31 to enjoy the view of Burj Khalifa; the world’s tallest structure, the Dubai Fountain; World’s largest dancing fountain, along with Jumeirah’s fire-
works for New Year’s Eve. To give them an affordable break and make their stay enjoyable, the hotel has come up with special winter packages. By Q3 2013, another hotel apartment will open in Dubai Marina, by the name of City Premiere Marina and by 2015 a 5-star hotel will be launched in Dubai Business Bay by the name of City Premiere Business Bay.
“We had around 70 per cent occupancy soon after the opening during summer with the clubbing of DSS and Eid, but a bit of drop was observed during the Month of Ramadan. Guests poured in from Saudi Arabia and precisely from CIS markets like Russia, Kazakhstan, Eastern Europe,” informed Kamal Soubra, General Manager, City Premiere Hotel Apartments.
“The Summer season mostly attracts the leisure sector including the GCC families while the winter is for business travellers. From the hotel apartment, it is very convenient to transport to major business and recreation areas like World Trade Centre, The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, Internet City and many more. The booking demands during summers are more for two to three bedrooms for families and leisure travellers and during winters there are more of business guests with a demand of one bedroom,” informed the General Manager. All the suites in City Premiere are fully-equipped and spacious with state-ofthe-art kitchen facilities and are available in the same price range. The combination of exceptional warmth and outstanding attention to details makes the hotel a destination for regional and international travellers.
Banking on South Africa Centrally located, the five-star hotel Taj Palace Dubai has witnessed a 5 per cent growth from South Africa (SA) in 2012. The hotel also offers apartment accommodation. T T B U R E AU
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eturning from a recent roadshow to South Africa that was organised by the Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM); the sales and marketing team at the Taj Palace Dubai, is optimistic about
Marwa Mustafa Director - Sales Taj Palace Dubai
consolidating and growing its market share from the country that is presently up by 14 per cent visitor mix. “The roadshow had highlighted the key attractions of Dubai where passen-
gers can fly directly from Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. They can connect to more than 220 destinations worldwide, while enjoying many offerings of Dubai during their transit stop,” said Marwa Mustafa, Director Sales, Taj Palace Dubai.
“South African visitors look for value, rather than a beach location. We were delighted with the reception we had from our colleagues there, including wholesalers and agents
UAE residents can meet to enjoy a selection of festive buffets. Featuring seasonal delights is an international buffet on Christmas Eve, where prices start from AED 135 per person or just AED 250 for a couple. The cost for children between six and 12 is just AED 59 while those under six dine free. Ringing in the New Year, the hotel will set up a gala dinner buffet with live cooking stations in the specialty restaurants, celebratory midnight countdown and balloon drop at midnight.
Seasonal Delights by Taj Palace Dubai
who indicated traffic from the country would continue to rise in 2013,” an ecstatic Mustafa added.
Featuring seasonal delights is an international buffet on Christmas Eve, where prices start from AED 135 per person or just AED 250 for a couple
To cater all is the hallmark of celebrations at the Taj Palace Dubai this December, where guests and
The cost for children between six and 12 is just AED 59 while those under six dine free
Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa is the only downtown beach hotel in Dubai that opened in 1989. It received around 15 per cent increase in business in 2012 compared to 2011 from travel agencies and tour operators. T T B U R E AU
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ajority of the guests pour in from Russia and few others from CIS countries. A huge number of visitors come from Europe, UK, the most out of which, along with a steady travellers’ traffic from the USA.
“The GCC countries remain an important source for the hotel throughout the year,” informed Roger Azouri, General Manager, Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa. With sprawling landscape and twelve Food & Beverage out-
lets, the beach resort & spa is in constant expansion plan and is undergoing a series of upgrades to its infrastructure and services. “In 2012, we have renovated a number of restaurants and recently launched our revamped, state-of-the-art fitness centre,” he stated. The travel trade partners promote the property in different markets. Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa have received around 15 per cent increase in business in 2012 compared to 2011 from the travel agencies and tour operators. “We constantly interact with our partners and support their efforts and
Roger Azouri General Manager Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa
also help them participate in all the major travel exhibitions around the globe. We do organise frequent FAM trips and workshops for their encouragement,” Azouri informed.
R Hospitality going steady With the opening of its third hotel on January 1, 2013, R Hospitality is making a steady move by increasing its inventory to 3 hotels. T T B U R E AU
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he second Ramada in Ajman came into being due to the success of Ramada Ajman, the leading occupancy hotel in the Northern Emirate since 2011. Due to
Iftikhar Hamdani General Manger Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman
aggressive sales graph, 400 rooms were insufficient to cater all the sectors hence, the third hotel is impending. “After inaugurating our new property, Ramada Beach, Ajman, we can provide the leisure guests with more entertainment and ease as the private beach is just across the road.
Both the corporate and leisure segments will be able to avail every opportunity and comfort from the new 107-room boutique hotel,”
informed the recently awarded Brand Ambassador of Wyndham Hotel Group, Iftikhar Hamdani, General Manger, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman. With the expansion plan, the Wyndham Group’s famous brand, Ramada in Ajman will have 507 rooms which will state it as the largest room inventory in Ajman. The tourist increase from CIS market alone is observed to be more than 200 per cent in 2012. There is a dire need of more rooms to fulfill the demand of overflowing guests. Opening of the Ramada Beach, Ajman at the onset of 2013 will be the solution of all.
Ramada’s ‘Green’ initiatives
The Ramada Downtown Dubai team took part in different green initiatives including its participation in Earth Hour by switching off all the lights in the hotel’s public areas for one hour, observance of Earth Day through a clean-up drive of Jumeirah Open Beach and planning planting activities during National Tree Day.
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TRAVTALK
DESTINATION
DECEMBER, 2012
Kenya
‘World of Wonder’ in a world of its own
Bordering the Indian Ocean, Kenya is one of the world’s leading travel destinations in East Africa. With its scenic beauty, magnificent wildlife and pleasant year-round climate, Kenya is an independent Republic. Among other places Nairobi and Mombasa are those cities which showcase varied cultures, tribes and sub-tribes. SUSMITA GHOSH IN KENYA
travellers as connecting through Kigali, now, becomes a real alternative.”
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enyans are known for their friendliness and hospitality. They greet visitors and address them with words in Swahili such as ‘Jambo’ that means ‘Hello’ and ‘Karibu’ that means ‘Welcome’ and ‘Asante Sana’ to ‘Thank’ them all. Being the only direct flight from Dubai to Mombasa, RwandAir, has increased its frequencies to and from Dubai. Since November 2012, it has started operations daily to Kigali. The new schedule has given more choice to the business travellers between Rwanda and the UAE. “Most Rwandan businessmen fly between Dubai and Mombasa for their work and holidays. Rwandair’s operations on these routes help travellers save the connection hustle that they
Kenya’s popularity as a tourist destination for the Middle East residents has steadily grown, with the number of visitors from the UAE in the last four years almost doubling. John Chirchir Regional Marketing Manager Kenya Tourism Board (KTB)
The tourism revenues from the UAE for the first half of 2012 have increased by 193 per cent over the same period in 2011
John Chirchir, Regional Marketing Manager, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) notified, “The tourism revenues from the UAE for the first half of 2012 have increased by 193 per cent compared to the same period in 2011. It shows an upward trend for Kenya as a destination for the residents of the UAE.” “Overall, the Middle East is still an emerging market. Access to Kenya has been made easier with most of the nationalities receiving Visa-on-Arrivals,” Chirchir informed.
With new aircraft joining the fleet recently, RwandAir also adjusted frequencies to other existing cities connected to the Dubai flights.
“We have number of exhibitions and roadshows cutting across all the source markets. Being a part of the marketing opportunities to reach the targetted trade and consumers, it helps us create awareness on the tourism products that Kenya has to offer,” he further stated.
Mirenge further said, “We are looking ahead to welcome more
Kenya has recorded almost 3 per cent growth in tourist arrivals during
used to endure before,” informed John Mirenge, CEO, Rwandair.
January to June 2012 compared to the same period in 2011. Diversifying tourism products, partnership and networking with trade and tapping in new and emerging markets are the future plans of the Tourism Board. On the north coast of Mombasa, Pangoni Beach and Resort and Spa, set in
parks and game reserves. Regarded as the most spectacular wildlife viewing area in Kenya, the reserves have over 95 species of mammals, amphibians, reptiles and 400 bird species. The dominant inhabitants are the wildebeest. Kenya Safari is truly an African experience, combin-
These routes help the travellers save the connection hustle that they used to endure before John Mirenge, CEO, Rwandair tropical gardens, offers accommodation of one, two and three bedroom apartments. All its 50 suites have spacious well-planned rooms, lounge area with balcony and pool & sea view. Famous for its wildlife, Kenya boasts of 59 national
ing the animals in the plains in Maasai Mara and the beaches of Mombasa among others. An eco-friendly luxury camp, Karen Blixen Camp has an extensive solar panel system with 24-hour electricity and water heating,
positioned in Mara North Conservancy. This camp protects 3,400 acres of natural wildlife area. The reserve is surrounded by local community group ranches serving as dispersal areas. The Maasai tribe is Kenya’s best-known cultural group. Clad in colourful shukas, these tall bejeweled people have preserved their traditional way of life, uninfluenced by cultural trends elsewhere. Almanara Luxury Resort is on Galu Beach, the central part of three stretches of beaches that make up 25 km of Diani Beach. The adventure lovers, staying in the resort, can enjoy guided deep sea diving and scuba diving expeditions. The colourful marine parks and reserves are excellent locations for snorkelling and diving. The visitors enjoy glass bottom boat excursions as well.
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NTO
DECEMBER, 2012
TRAVTALK
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Destination explored@WTM 2012 The Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) secured 550+ meetings with key business partners in WTM 2012. The Tourism Board’s representatives held meetings with 101 travel trade professionals during the event. T T B U R E AU
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imed to attract visitors and investment, discover destination promotion opportunities, the authority manages the emirate’s tourism sector and markets the destination internationally through a range of activities. To create synergy in the destination’s development through close co-ordination with its stakeholder
base is the key role of the authority.
“The Emirate’s delegation witnessed a steady stream of visitors to the Abu Dhabi pavilion with people keen to learn more about the destination’s tourism developments and its culture
Mubarak Al Nuaimi International Promotions Manager TCA Abu Dhabi
and heritage,” Mubarak Al Nuaimi, International Promotions Manager, TCA Abu Dhabi informed.
openings and attractions like Yas Waterworld and Arabian Nights Village,” commented Al Nuaimi.
The soon-to-open Yas Waterworld on Yas Island overflowed with requests from plenty of travel industry delegates interested to get information on the new attraction.
“Lots of people have discussed about the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Grand Prix and are aware of our packed calendar of events in the coming months,” he informed.
“We’ve managed to communicate to all the people regarding our new hotel
Through several business meetings, TCA Abu Dhabi had secured many new business leads.
The Authority had incorporated Water Park in the itinerary of the several tour operators who have planned to take groups of travel agents to Abu Dhabi in the near future.
Abu Dhabi at WTM TCA Abu Dhabi secured 550+ key business meetings The Emirate’s delegation witnessed a steady stream of visitors to the Abu Dhabi pavilion
ME traveller on South Australia’s radar The Australian Tourism authorities have constantly strived to woo the Middle Eastern traveller as the average spend is triple than the average global spend of AUD 7,025 (AED 26,792) per person excluding air fares. T T B U R E AU
Sigrid Frede, International Operations Manager, South Australia Tourism Commission (SATC) explained the move as a strategic one,
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o further boost the ties stronger, Emirates launched its first direct flight to Adelaide making it the airline’s fifth Australian destination and the first direct flight by any GCC carrier. Tourism is an important revenue generator for the state, which accounted for over AUD 5.3 billion (AED 20.213 billion) revenue, during the year end on March 31, 2012. Traditionally, Australian Tourism authorities have wooed the Middle Eastern traveller as the
Sigrid Frede International Operations Manager South Australia Tourism Commission (SATC)
average spend is triple than the average global spend at AUD 7,025 (AED 26,792) per person excluding air fares.
“With 300 Australian companies registered and over 15,000 Australians living in the UAE presently, we are very excited to welcome Emirates to South Australia.
Not to forget to mention the huge expatriates’ interest in a new, unique destination, we should see a lot of interest in Adelaide.” “Our current visitation from the Middle East is relatively low at 3,000 people a year. We expect the direct flights to at least double the number by the end of December 2013,” she added. South Australia has many outstanding experiences to offer international travellers and is the perfect starting point for an Australian holiday.
The SATC will focus on marketing the state’s key destinations: the capital city Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and Barossa. Adelaide is a ‘20-min city, easy to get around, walker friendly and surrounded by parklands. It features delightful heritage buildings. Just one hour from Adelaide, Barossa is worldrenowned as Australia’s food and wine capital. There are many lavender farms, artesian cheeses and the largest rose garden in the Southern Hemisphere featuring 30,000 roses.
Kangaroo Island is the star of the show and the only place in the world where one can see a large variety of Australian wild animals up close. “Those seeking that extra bit of excitement should head to Port Lincoln to swim with the Great White Sharks, as it is one of those few places in the world where one can experience such a thrill while travelling to South Australia. A boat takes you into the deep sea and you are lowered in a cage to safely encounter sharks up close,” informed Frede.
Saudi Arabia, UAE & Kuwait on top The Philippines witnessed a remarkable growth in terms of tourist arrivals from the Middle East from January to August, 2012. Saudi Arabia, UAE and Kuwait were the top three Middle Eastern source markets. T T B U R E AU
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his provides another feat for Philippine Tourism as arrivals from the region yield 2.2 per cent growth for the same period in 2011. In September, 2012, the Philippine and the UAE Government signed an agreement to boost air traffic between the two countries. This enhanced air pact will see increased flight entitlements for both the sides. The 18th World Routes event held in Abu Dhabi witnessed The Philippines’ first-ever strong participation as an exhibitor. Together with
Department of Tourism, Clark International Airport Corporation, Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific took part at the show. The presence of the Philippines in this sort of international arena showed the assurance to develop international air access into the country, a key component of the National Tourism Development Plan from 2011 to 2016. “World Routes brought the biggest gathering of senior aviation and tourism executives to Abu Dhabi. We realise that the UAE and the Middle East continue to play a key role in the aviation
Corporation, Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific are very keen to explore the great potential this region presents,” said Mohamad Ibrahim Masri, Middle East Director, Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) Representative Office.
Mohamad Ibrahim Masri Middle East Director Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) Representative Office
industry as one of the globe’s fastest growing international air hubs. Our colleagues from Clark International Airport
The country’s key airport representatives focussed on promoting existing market opportunities and route development programmes. The Philippine airlines executives presented specific requirements and network expansion plans among airports and destinations around the world.
“While visitors from this region initially travelled to the Philippines for business, most of them are now exploring the different facets of the country. A growing interest among the Gulf Nationals is also found as they discovered the country’s Medical and Wellness Tourism programmes,” added Masri. The Department of Tourism had updated the key
travel trade on various Philippine Tourism products catered to the requirements of Middle Eastern tourists under the tourism campaign –‘It's more fun in the Philippines’. This will include series of familiarisation trips to key tourist attractions in the Philippines.
ME Tops the Chart A growing interest among the Gulf Nationals is also found as they discovered the country’s Medical and Wellness Tourism programmes
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TRAVTALK
TECHNOLOGY
DECEMBER, 2012
Travelport uAPI launched
A musical evening for the travel trade
Presently 20 per cent of all travel bookings in the UAE are made online with 16 per cent in Saudi Arabia and 12 per cent in Qatar. To support this growth, Travelport has announced the roll-out of its industry-leading Travelport Universal API (uAPI) technology in the Middle East and Africa.
Le Meridian Dubai had invited the travel agents on November 21, 2012 to enjoy a musical event. They had great time, ‘Gangnam style’ and vouchers were also distributed. There were two lucky winners who won Emirates Airlines return ticket to Barcelona, Spain or Lyon.
East and Africa. “Travelport uAPI combined content and travel related services from multiple sources through a single connection, giving easy access to a world of content and functionality efficiently. It removes multiple API connections,” a proud Saab informed.
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he trend of online travel booking provides an additional boost to regional travel providers and it increases the number of travel agencies to develop their online presence. Travelport uAPI, available in selected countries across the region now, enables travel agencies to streamline booking process by re-aggregating presently fragmented content from the GDS and other sources. It also offers the broadest range of content available with full access to Travelport’s GDS air, hotel and car content and high speed Rail suppliers and Low Cost Carriers. “Agents across the Middle East and Africa now have access to Travelport GDS technology of the future,” said Rabih Saab, President and Managing Director, Travelport, Middle
Rabih Saab President and Managing Director Travelport, Middle East and Africa
Saudi Arabia follows the UAE as the second largest country for online travel sales in the Middle East
Gloria Hotel Dubai Gloria Hotel will continue its cooperation with all the major Destination Management Companies and seek assistance from Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) to host FAM trips and open new feeder markets in Dubai. DTCM has always supported Gloria Hotels as their official partners. “We are confident that we will achieve a total of 85 per cent of occupancy by the end of 2012, which is a 3 per cent increase in comparison to 2011.
Besides the guests pouring in from UAE and GCC markets, we have observed an increase of travellers from CIS and Germany market to be our hotel guests,” informed Freddy Farid, Cluster General Manager, Gloria Hotel Dubai. The hotel has a prime location at the new Dubai city with an inventory of 2,000 spacious suites and
According to global travel market research company, PhoCusWright, online travel bookings in the UAE represented US$ 4.7bn in 2011 and expected to be double to US$ 9.4bn by 2014. “Saudi Arabia follows the UAE as the second largest country for online travel sales in the Middle East with 13 per cent of online bookings made in the Kingdom and Qatar is third with 9 per cent in 2010,” he added. “Travelport has been supporting travel agencies and suppliers in the Middle East for over 20 years,” he further stated.
“Recently, we have seen the online industry have grown incredibly and a number of factors fuelling this growth. One of these is the high level of Internet access in the region, the UAE alone consists of 78 per cent of people being online. Additionally, the young and the highly diverse population of the Middle East provide an ideal environment for online travel to flourish,” he said. The new numbers provide further insight into the changing habits of Middle East travellers with unprecedented growth in online travel in the region. The total web sales is expected to reach US$ 15.8 billion by 2014.
Process Streamlining Travelport uAPI enables travel agencies to streamline the booking process by re-aggregating presently fragmented content from the GDS
Amadeus Gulf opens new office Amadeus Gulf recently opened its new office in Dubai on November 20, 2012. Being part of the company’s expansion plan, Amadeus Gulf is strategically aiming to cater to the fast-growing Gulf travel and tourism sector. T T B U R E AU
Freddy Farid Cluster General Manager Gloria Hotel Dubai
apartments. All are equipped with food and beverage outlets along with professional, recreation and children’s facilities. It is fully equipped with latest business and leisure amenities. “Being the safest haven, Dubai became the main choice of the travellers of late. Developing what we have and look for new opportunities of managing hotels in different areas of MENA region are the ones we expect in future,” he further said. According to the General Manager of the hotel, “Correct experience and the correct professional within the correct environment, helps us in overcoming challenges and turn them into viable opportunities.”
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ew headquarters were also inaugurated in Abu Dhabi quite recently while Amadeus Gulf has expanded its presence from the UAE to other key markets like Bahrain and Oman with fullfledged offices in Manama and Muscat.
Nowadays, Amadeus is not only a leading transaction processor but also a provider of advanced technology solutions for the global travel and tourism industry. Amadeus processed 947 million billable travel transactions in 2011. Amadeus Gulf is a joint venture of Amadeus I.T. Group S.A., Spain and Etihad Airways and is fast becoming the region’s leading Global Distribution technology provider. “Our team comprises of around 60 skilled and competent executives with a common goal of helping our partners adapt, grow and succeed in the fast changing
travel industry,” said Graham Nichols, Managing Director, Amadeus Gulf. “Since the outset, we have envisioned and delivered solutions that demonstrated a deep understanding of the industry driven by our global reach and solid local expertise. This has helped us to become the leading technology partner to the global travel and tourism industry,” he informed. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has recently predicted that the world’s airlines will only make US$ 4.1 billion in profit during 2012. It represents a margin lower than 1 per cent. Set against this backdrop, ancillary services are a means for airlines to increase their revenues, whilst offering travellers new products or extra services like extra leg room, baggage or travel insurance. Extra services include those products airlines crosssell from other providers like hotels, car hire and insur-
ance. But they also include ‘a la carte’ services like access to the lounge or priority boarding for standard class travellers. Amadeus provides Amadeus Ancillary Services, a technology solution for which 53 airlines have signed contracts to enable the effective sale of ancillary services.
Graham Nichols Managing Director Amadeus Gulf
86% of ancillary services we deliver through the travel agency channel is about seats and 13% about extra luggage
“It is worth mentioning that 86 per cent of the ancillary services, we delivered through the travel agency channel, since, the beginning of the year is about seats and 13 per cent are about extra luggage. Most of the ancillary services sold are still basic so there is space for growth of à la carte ancillaries,” added Nichols. Early 2012, we announced the creation of the world’s first Interline EMD (Electronic Miscellaneous Document) link with Finnair and EgyptAir as launch partners. This means the carriers’ customers can now buy ancillary services across interline flights.
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MOVEMENTS
DECEMBER, 2012
TRAVTALK
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Atlantis, The Palm Dubai
Rotana Dubai
Centro Sharjah Sharjah
Vincent Smarrella joins Atlantis, The Palm as the new
Andrew Adey joins Rotana as the new Associate Vice
Senior Vice President for Hotel Operations. In this new role, he will be directing the Rooms Division, including Front Office, Call Centre, Concierge, Bell Services, Guest Services, Business Centre, Housekeeping and VIP and Butler Services. Smarrella began his career in 1981 as an Executive Assistant Reception Manager at Grand Hotel Des Bains in Venice Italy. Most recently, he held the position Resident Manager at Le Bristol, Paris.
President of Sales and Revenue for UAE. Born in the UK, he studied business & marketing and completed his Higher National Diploma at Guildford College. Adey comes with 17 years of experience in the industry, out of which he spent 14 years with the Marriott Hotel Group in various positions. In this present profile, he will be working on developing the local sales and revenue channels for Rotana and keeping track of the group’s expansion plans.
Daniel Mathew has been appointed as the General Manager of Centro Sharjah. He started his career with Rotana in 2008, heading the pre-opening team of Rose Rayhaan by Rotana. With a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, Mathew comes with 30 years of tenure in the hotel business. He held held key management positions with renowned international chains in the Middle East and North America. In his new position, he will be in charge for directing the overall management and operation of Centro Sharjah.
Rose Rayhaan by Rotana Dubai
Al Ghurair Rayhaan & Al Ghurair Arjaan by Rotana Dubai
Karim Nahas is the new General Manager of Rose Rayhaan by Rotana, Dubai. He joins the new position from the Grand Rotana Resort & Spa in Sharm El Sheikh, where, he was the General Manager from 2009 until 2012. Nahas joins the new property with a long standing track record of over 30 years of hospitality experience while being General Manager for 10 years. He has worked with Rotana and other International chains.
Mark McCarthy has been appointed as the new General Manager for Al Ghurair Rayhaan & Al Ghurair Arjaan by Rotana, two new properties due to open in December. He is a well-respected veteran of the hospitality industry and comes with more than 19 years of experience in the business. In his present profile, McCarthy will lead a team of seasoned hotel professionals who will have strategic roles in leading the new properties.
Al Manzil and Qamardeen Hotels Dubai Stefan Viard is appointed as the new General Manager for Al Manzil and Qamardeen Hotels. He will be responsible for the overall operation of the two properties – from rooms to guest service – in addition to implementing and driving marketing goals. The German-French born Viard brings more than 14 years of international experience in the service and hospitality industry. He has previously worked with some leading international hotel and resort properties in Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
Le Gray Beirut
Grand Millennium Dubai Dubai
Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai Dubai
Rana Al Khoury has been appointed as the new General Manager of luxury boutique hotel Le Gray, Beirut. Khoury has over 16 years of experience of managing multi-million dollar projects in the hospitality sector. She joined Le Gray as Business Development Manager in January 2011 and due to her strong leadership, she quickly assumed the role of Hotel Manager. Her latest appointment as General Manager makes her one of the first Lebanese women to hold this position at a five star hotel.
Tamim Hamamah is the Director of Human Resources of Grand
Tengku Norlinda Binti Tengku Ali is the new Sous Chef for Park
Millennium Mumbai. He has been promoted from his former role as the HR Manager of the property. Hamamah joined the Grand Millennium Dubai in its pre-opening phase in 2007 and now heads up a career development and recruitment department responsible for a team of 360 staff members. He is a Syrian national who came to Dubai in 1994 to develop his career in hospitality.
Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai. Prior to her new posting, the 50-year-old Malaysian national was with Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa Dubai as Sous Chef of its Fusion Restaurant (Asian) and Maya by Richard Sandoval (Modern Mexican). Norlinda began her career in 1981 as a cook in the Mara Institute of Technology, from where she earned a pre-graduation apprentice degree in 1983.
Seychelles hosts and trains the agents
The Seychelles Tourism Board Middle East in collaboration with Etihad Airways hosted the last familiarisation trip for this year from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on October 3-6, 2012. The Tourism Board’s Middle East office also conducted a 2-day educational seminar targetting the Travel Trade and Consumers from November 12-13, 2012 in Amman, Jordan in collaboration with Petra Travel & Tourism.
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16
TRAVTALK
DECEMBER, 2012
HIGHLIGHT
IndiGo expanding its wings in Dubai skies After commencing its first international flight to Dubai from Delhi, September 1, 2011, IndiGo is on the right track to keep its promise of expansion. Keeping that in mind, the carrier has been expanding its international flights. On the same note, the airline will start its first international flight from Kolkata to Bangkok on December 21, 2012. S U S M I TA G H O S H
M
eticulous in maintaining ‘On time performance’ with presently running with 90 to 95 per cent, IndiGo is waiting for the Delhi fog to get over, so that the airline can start operating new additional flights. By early 2013, it will connect Dubai to other southern destinations like Thiruvananthapuram, Calicut and Mangalore. It will also start operating its second flight to Mumbai from Dubai. Effective August 2012, the airline launched its new non-stop, daily flights between Dubai and Hyderabad, Dubai and Chennai, Dubai and Kochi. Additionally, IndiGo also started operating its second daily and direct flight between Dubai and Delhi. In June 2012, the airline launched its new Arabic website in Dubai, specifically
designed for both business and leisure travellers based in the Middle East. In addition to all the numeric figures displayed in English, the 6E travellers are enjoying wider choices to make payments in AED, INR, OMR, NPR or SGD.
“IndiGo is determined to provide the best travel experience, to all those, who wish to fly these destinations. We are looking at providing affordable fares, on these new routes, for the 6E travellers. It is our constant endeavour, to provide more flexibility of choice for our customers, as we continue to offer them on time, hassle-free and always affordable flying experience,” said Aditya Ghosh, President, IndiGo. “The fact that we are the fastest growing Low Cost Carrier (LCC) in the world, the fact that we are the largest
airline of the country, the fact that we have been able to go out of Dubai so fast are the reasons for the travellers to return to us again and again,” Ghosh further stated. “The airline will have 61 aircrafts by 2012 end and 10 more will be added by 2013 taking the total up to 71 by the end of the year. To bring the fuel burn further down and the cost subsequently, IndiGo will be the first airline in the world to introduce sharklets at the end of its wings by January 2013,” he informed. IndiGo has operated 2,433 flights till November
We are looking at providing affordable fares on these new routes for the 6E travellers” Aditya Ghosh, President, IndiGo
15, 2012 in and out of Dubai, carrying 3,61,732 passengers. Expanding its footprint in the region, IndiGo would be increasing its total number of weekly flights from 84 to 112, with an increase of 33 per cent from November 2012 to February 2013. As a result, the capacity would increase from 15,120 seats per week to 20,160. Established in 1989 with its headquarters in Gurgaon in Haryana state, India, IndiGo, the young airline is in the perfect direction of success with massive opportunities and more expectation. By early 2012, IndiGo had taken the delivery of its 50th aircraft in less than 6 years. The carrier is known to have placed the largest order in commercial aviation history during 2011, when Airbus won the US$ 15 billion deal for 180 aircraft
Flying International Delhi - Muscat Delhi - Kathmandu Delhi - Singapore Delhi - Bangkok Delhi - Dubai Mumbai - Bangkok Mumbai - Dubai
In February 2012, IndiGo was expanding rapidly and was making solid profits, the only airline in India to do so. The airline’s strong adherence to the low cost model, buying only one type of aircraft and keeping operational costs as low as possible along with heavy emphasis on punctuality are said to be some of the reasons for its success. IndiGo focusses on adding a new plane every six weeks and sometimes even faster.