TravTalk Middleeast

Pages: 28

travtalkmiddleeast.com

A DDP PUBLICATION

ddppl.com

Vol. VIII No. 5; May 2012

ME to score big with ATM 2012 Unfastening business opportunities within the ME for inbound and outbound tourism professionals, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is one of the leading travel and tourism events that provides a varied range of opportunities for the travel trade. The Event is scheduled April 30-May 3, 2012 at the Dubai International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

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yatt Hotels Corporation announced that it will utilise ATM 2012 as a platform to update its key regional stakeholders on its development plans for major properties in Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, two critically-strategic markets for the US-headquartered hotelier.

“Hyatt’s progress in Saudi Arabia and Malaysia is absolutely remarkable and we are thrilled to offer the Gulf residents the best of it, particularly, in both of these premium markets.

Our newly-opened worldwide sales office in Saudi Arabia with its focus on localised and personalised services will support both the destinations,” explained Dubaibased Thierry Bertin, Vice President - World Wide Sales, Hyatt International South West Asia.

Promoting its luxurious amenities and facilities, Emirates Grand Hotel will offer the visitors, a glimpse of the summer promotion at ATM 2012.

Frank Owens, Group General Manager & Area Director Business Development, Emirates Grand Hotel said, “One of the main objectives in joining ATM is to build excellent repute of our hotel and most importantly to encourage people to see what we offer. Quality service delivered in a personalised manner is our priority, ensuring our satisfied guests will create awareness and return again to the property!”

The team hopes to meet potential travel partners who can bring in more business opportunities. “We expect to build partnership with reputable companies and network with key stakeholders of the industry,” added Owens.

Looking ahead for networking and building new relationships with key stakeholders from the travel and tourism market, Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort, a Moroccan-style property in Fujairah, announced its participation at ATM 2012.

Ashraf Helmy, General Manager & Area Develop-

The recently established new environmental programmes, ‘Tree Planting for Regular Guest’ and ‘Kids Gardening Programme’ aimed at preserving environment will also be highlighted.

Thierry Bertin

Frank Owens

Vice President - World Wide Sales Hyatt International South West Asia

Group General Manager & Area Director Business Development Emirates Grand Hotel

Ashraf Helmy General Manager & Area Development Manager, Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resorts

Hyatt’s progress in Saudi Arabia and Malaysia is absolutely remarkable and we are thrilled to offer the Gulf residents the best of it

One of the main objectives to be in ATM is to build excellent repute for our hotel and to encourage people to see what we offer

Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach is always the right choice as a destination due to the variety of facilities we offer

ment Manager, Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resorts said, “Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach is

always the right choice for destination due to the variety of facilities we offer, high quality food & beverage

services and an exclusive animation programme, never to be found in any other resort in the UAE.”

Prospect of the regional Cruise Tourism will be highlighted once again at this year’s ATM event. To expand the cruise product, both off and on-shore, an out-and-out on-site cruise pavilion will provide a platform for regional port operators, tourism service providers and international cruise liners.

Branding exercises can only be accomplished by physically participating in any event with a display stand.

Optimistic to take part at ATM 2013 depending on the principals they represent, the exposure and at what cost and ROI, Ashley Noronha, In Charge, Al Rais Cruise Department underlined, “Walking the floor facilitates to cover a large area and meet numerous visitors attending in person.

Furthermore, with the increase in participation costs, most of the agents Contd. on page 8

INTERVIEW FOREIGN EXCHANGE DIRHAM VALUE

(Subject to variation) Country

Currency

(As on 17-04-2012)

CN Buy

CN Sell

USA ..........................USD ................3.653..............3.685 UK ............................GBP ..............5.7177............5.9377 Egypt ........................EGP ................0.605..............0.711 Euro ..........................EUR ..............4.6948............4.8868 Canada......................CAD ..............3.6206............3.7479

Luxury the new theme for India ‘Medical Wellness and Luxury Tourism’ is the theme for India Tourism at ATM 2012. India is one of the most lucrative health and wellness tourism markets in the world. It has been promoting unique travel experiences across the country on an emotional, physical, intellectual and even spiritual level.

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Bahrain ....................BHD ..............9.5739............9.9137 Oman ........................OMR................9.405............9.6512 Kuwait ......................KWD............12.9908..........13.4343 Saudi Arabia ............SAR ..............0.9625............0.9972 Qatar ........................QAR ..............0.9944............1.0209 Australia ..................AUD ..............3.7269............3.8377 Japan ........................JPY................0.0445............0.0466 Philippines ................PHP ..............0.0844............0.0873 Singapore..................SGD ..............2.8771............3.0047 India ........................INR................0.0692............0.0725 Pakistan ....................PKR ..............0.0397............0.0416 Bangladesh ..............BDT ..............0.0438............0.0456 Sri Lanka ..................LKR ..............0.0279............0.0291 Nepal ........................NPR ..................0.05..............0.056 Morocco ....................MAD................0.405..............0.525 Switzerland ..............CHF ..............3.9037............4.0703 South Africa ..............ZAR ................0.485..............0.553

With more than 6 million foreign tourists visiting India, the Country’s tourism industry has shown strong growth in 2011. The Ministry of Tourism (MoT), Government of India has set a goal of doubling the number of foreign tourists by 2016 and to create around 4,00,000 new hotel rooms all across the Country.

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pearheaded by Karnataka Tourism, Kerala has shown fantastic interest in ATM 2012, demonstrating 50 per cent of the booth in India pavilion representing their tour operators, wellness spa and some hotels. The State of Meghalaya is participating for the first time, promoting the North East region, displaying the splendour of this neverso explored state.

In ATM 2012, Air India and India Tourism both will showcase their product.

India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) will be promoting specific travel promotions for the NRIs and PIOs in ATM 2012.

“Besides promoting wellness, yoga, panchatantra, Ayurvedic treatment, rejuvenation therapies and Medical Tourism, the significant

India@ATM 2012 Vikas Rustagi Regional Director India Tourism, Dubai

aspect of Maharaja Express of Rajasthan, the luxurious train will also be displayed, adding value to Luxury Tourism.

Preparation is in huge flow to showcase every potential product and special promotions keeping ATM in mind,” informed Vikas Rustagi, Regional Director, India Tourism, Dubai.

In ATM 2012, Air India and India Tourism both will showcase their products The State of Meghalaya is participating for the first time, promoting the North East region Kerala has shown fantastic interest in ATM 2012 and has taken 50 per cent of the booth in India pavilion

MoT and the states of India are developing new products to capitalise on India’s potential from its traditional system of wellness and medicines like Ayurveda, Siddha and yoga to present it as a unique destination for spiritual healing.

“Visualising cleanliness and hygiene, MoT has launched a ‘Clean India’ campaign aimed to undertake both sensitisation and action at field level, bringing the tourism destinations and their surroundings to an acceptable level of cleanliness and FTAs in India,” Rustagi further said.

During 2011 it was 6.29 million with a growth of 8.9 per cent as compared to the FTAs of 5.78 million with a growth of 11.8 per cent during the year 2010 over the corresponding year.

TALKING PEOPLE EDITORIAL ATM, an event with a vision

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rabian Travel Market (ATM), the leading travel exhibition in the ME to be held from April 30 - May 3, 2012 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), has become the talk of the town.

The success of ATM 2011 has unmistakably reflected the strength of the regional tourism industry.

According to the organisers, overall attendance increased by 15% on the 2010 event, as exhibitors and visitors remained unfazed by the challenges faced by the region and got down to the business of travel. A post-show analysis revealed a 20% increase in Buyers Club attendees while 71% visitors were of management status or above. A total of 68% visitors had influential purchasing power, 18% visitors placed orders worth US$ 10,000 during the Event and 38% visitors expected to place orders worth US$ 10,000 and above as a result of the Event.

Concurrently, the positive outlook for the region’s cruise sector is boosting reciprocal tourism potential in key destinations across the GCC. The future potential of regional Cruise Tourism will once again be a highlight at this year’s ATM. A dedicated on-site cruise pavilion will provide a platform for regional port operators, tourism service providers and international cruise liners looking to develop, a well-rounded cruise product, both off and onshore.

RCI pledges on cruise ship safety In recent months, the topic of cruise ship safety has been discussed intensively across the globe. In Dubai, the ‘Cruise Ship Emergency Response Task Force’ is a body of national and local emergency response providers who ensure the maritime safety and inspect every cruise ship calling into UAE ports.

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We had very positive feedback from the task force, for the safety on-board our ship, ‘Brilliance of the Seas’.

Measures like informing the guests immediately to proceed to the emergency areas and not back to their cabins or that children who are part of the children care programme receive colored bands immediately so that the staff knows as to which area to bring them in case of an emergency, are among the few actions which are also being practiced in other cruise lines.

It all sounds simple and obvious but these procedures have to be in place and followed through in case of a real emergency and all measures must be taken and worked upon efficiently.

There are many aspects of safety. Although we are proud of our people, processes and technology in all areas of safety, we know that we must keep reviewing them; broaden the range of scenarios, prepare, drill, train our crew and never stop in our pursuit of safety perfection.

For Royal Caribbean Cruises, safety and security

Visitor registrations for the four-day ATM are already up 132% from the same time in 2011 with nearly 2,000 visitors.

No surprise, the event has grown to become the largest showcase of its kind in the region and one of the biggest in the world.

Publisher Director Editorial Director Editor Assistant Editor (ME) Desk Editor Sub Editor Design Manager Advertising Asst. Manager - Sales Asst. Manager - Mktg.

Circulation Manager Manager Production

: SanJeet : Sumeera Bahl : Rupali Narasimhan : Deepa Sethi : Susmita Ghosh : Archana Sharma : Raina Mandal : Nityanand Misra : Geetika Pathak : Akassh Kapoor : Pallavi Sarma : Ashok Rana : Anil Kharbanda

ty and security regulations given to us from authorities worldwide. Our marine safety, records our 42-year old history, which clearly illustrates our commitment to the safety of the millions of guests and crew that sail on our ships.

afety is a never ending cycle. It is always a continuous journey. We need to operate safely while constantly improving our safety measures.

Lakshmi Durai Executive Director, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises Middle East

We had very positive feedback from the task force, for the safety onboard our ship, ‘Brilliance of the Seas’

are the highest priority; it is part of our culture, our DNA and is the prime motto of our mission. We set standards in the industry and always outperform the safe-

All of our ships are designed and operated in compliance with the strict requirements of the International Maritime Organisation, the UN agency that sets global standards for the safety and operation of cruise ships, codified in the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention.

Safety related regulations are rigorous and we often go above and beyond what is required, like carrying backup mechanical, navigational and safety provisions.

The cruise industry, especially Royal Caribbean, didn’t see an impact of the Arab Spring. All the markets in the region have performed very well even countries like Bahrain and Egypt, which faced many challenges due to the unrest yet showed positive growth compared to the year before.

We have presently finished a successful season in the Middle East and will bring a new revitalised ship in Dubai for the winter sea-

son 2013; ‘Serenade of the Seas’. The Cruise will offer vacationers 17 sailings, departing every Monday on seven-night United Arab Emirates and Oman itineraries from January 2013 through April 2013.

We have just introduced our summer 2013 itineraries where ‘Liberty of the Seas’, ‘Navigator of the Seas’ and ‘Serenade of the Seas’ (after her Dubai season) will be among the ships to deliver culture and hard to resist retail opportunities that Europe has to offer. This latest deployment opening offers 121 sailings on 25 itineraries that will make call at 30 beautiful ports. Europe is the most popular cruise destination for ME travellers.

Royal Caribbean’s 2013 Europe cruises and Cruise tours for the five ships ‘Independence of the Seas’, ‘Adventure of the Seas’, ‘Liberty of the Seas’, ‘Navigator of the Seas’ and ‘Serenade of the Seas’ - are open for booking now.

Lakshmi Durai Executive Director Royal Caribbean International Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises in the Middle East

Tilal Liwa Hotel nominated as Middle East’s Leading Desert Resort Tilal Liwa Hotel is honoured to be nominated for the prestigious World Travel Awards 2012 and proud to be among the Middle East’s Leading Desert Resort.

Located on the edge of the Rub Al Khali Desert, Western region of Abu Dhabi amid rolling sand dunes and an unspoiled desert landscape, the Hotel is managed by Danat Hotels & Resorts, a leading player in Abu Dhabi hotel's industry.

This unique destination offers guests to unwind in pure tranquility and have an unforgettable desert experience.

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NEWS

5 mega cruises onboard DCT More than 7,200 tourists arrived aboard five mega ocean liners on April 12, 2012. They were greeted with the finest of Emirati traditions at the DP World operated Dubai Cruise Terminal (DCT) in Port Rashid.

Rashid are in line with Dubai Government’s efforts to make Cruise Tourism an economic growth engine. DP World is committed to invest long term in the transformation of Port Rashid towards this end with the support and close cooperation of DTCM, our strategic partner in promoting the cruise industry in Dubai.”

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he five vessels; Costa Victoria, Queen Mary 2, Silver Whisper, Pacific Princess and Costa Favolosa, were anchored together at Port Rashid, sending a clear signal that Dubai is a prime destination for Cruise Tourism in this region. In January, Dubai Cruise Terminal hosted four large ocean-going cruise vessels at the same time.

The management of DP World, UAE Region, which operates Port Rashid, successfully implemented a plan to handle all five vessels at once

The Five Vessels Costa Victoria, Queen Mary 2, Silver Whisper, Pacific Princess and Costa Favolosa, were anchored together at Port Rashid

Mohammed Al Mannaei

Mohammed Al Muallem

Director – Port Rashid DP World, UAE Region

Senior Vice President and MD DP World, UAE Region

in close coordination with Dubai Tourism & Commerce Marketing, Dubai Customs, Dubai World Security, The Roads & Transport Authority and travel and tour operators.

There were help desks set up to offer the guests, tourist information in different languages. DP World’s vision for Port Rashid is to eventually be able to serve as many as seven cruise vessels at one time.

Mohammed Al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region said, “The success in handling five mega passenger vessels simultaneously confirms Port Rashid’s ability to embrace the growth in Cruise Tourism. It is a clear sign of Dubai’s position as a cruise destination of choice.

Our expansion plans for Port

Mohammed Al Mannaei, Director – Port Rashid, DP World, UAE Region said, “Welcoming multiple cruise ships and taking care of thousands of passengers at one time are challenges that we embrace with enthusiasm.

Our highly-trained staff members and baggage handling teams worked in tandem with our partners to ensure that our honoured cruise guests experienced a memorable visit to Dubai.

We look forward to more of such visits.”

MAY, 2012

TRAVTALK

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Global Meetings Industry Research Report Gulf Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings exhibition (GIBTM) delivered its Global Meetings Industry Research report detailing the condition of the Gulf, Middle East and North African region during the Event.

The report indicated that 48.2% of ME buyers and 47.2% of global buyers said that they organised more events in the last 12 months as compared to the previous year.

Furthermore, 64.5% and 56.4% respectively said that they are further looking at increasing the volume. Supporting such an increase in the volume of events are 53.7% of ME buyers and another 46.4% of global buyers that have signalled an increase in their budgets in the next 12 months.

The results of the report were drawn out of a survey of 1,063 buyerrespondents, 143 of whom are based in the ME. Out of the total respondents, 364 have held events in the region.

Report summary • In 2011, 58.5% of events organised by buyers were conventions and congresses • The top 10 countries for ME buyers during the past 12 months were the UAE (Abu Dhabi and Dubai), Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Egypt, Turkey, Thailand, Jordan, India and Malaysia • The top 10 countries for Global buyers during the past 12 months were UAE, the USA, China, Italy, France, the UK, Spain, India and Germany • In the next 12 months, Global buyers will see growth in India, the USA, Singapore, Thailand, Italy, the UK, France, China, Germany and Macao • The top 5 markets for MENA region are the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar and Kuwait • The top client types in the ME are Corporate, Government-owned enterprise, NGO’s, Government /not-for-profit, Associations, Agencies and Consultants

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TRAVTALK

CRUISES

MAY, 2012

What are the exceptional features of Star Cruises?

Star Cruises is the leading cruiseline in Asia Pacific catering to families, honeymoon couples, MICE groups, family reunion and weddings on-board.

To what extent is the awareness among the ME cruise lovers?

The number of passengers from the ME region, consisting of locals and expats proves, the awareness of Star Cruises in the region. In fact, we get requests from newer markets like Africa, Morocco, etc.

How does Star Cruises handle MICE groups?

MICE travel is one of our leading segments on-board. We have conferences on-board done from the region covering various corporate companies.

Is halal food available on any of your cruises?

In fact, we are the only cruise line serving halal food on-board two of our ships SuperStar Virgo and Superstar Libra. The SuperStar Virgo has a certified halal restaurant, The Taj. How are the cruise selling agents responding to the effect of Dubai and surrounding tourism getting influenced by the cruise industry?

We observed an increased interest among the travel agents in selling cruises. As, they can offer, new destinations to their customers every time and thereby the commission earned by them is higher too.

The benefit of selling a cruise is that they do not undercut each other as the rates offered to all the agents are same.

Najeeb Mithvani, Second Assistant Vice President, Star Cruises

Disney cruise line’s unmatched USP Al Tayer Holidays, a division of Al Tayer Travel Agency, deals in outbound travel with distribution rights for Disney’s portfolio - Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line and the mother of all resorts, Walt Disney World – Orlando.

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specialists are then taken on Fam trips to have a touch and feel experience of the product.

We also arrange an Annual party for their encouragement and provide product updates,” he further added.

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l Tayer Holidays (a division of Al Tayer Travel Agency) wholesales their products to the travel trade in GCC through their appointed subagents in Oman, Doha, Kuwait, Saudi and Bahrain.

“We have started representing Disney cruise line since December 2010 and during May – September 2011 we have sold around 400 cabins. We have started appointing agents in GCC, trained them, marketed and send fliers, thereby, after which we started getting enquiries,”

Asif Hussain Manager – Outbound, Al Tayer Holidays Distributor - Disney Cruiseline, GCC

informed Asif Hussain, Manager - Outbound Al Tayer Holidays, Distributor for Disney Cruiseline GCC-wide.

“We conduct roadshows and workshops on an annual basis and also have an online programme, ‘Disney Stars’ for the travel trade where we encourage the agents to learn and appear for an examination.

After qualifying they are certified as a ‘Disney specialist’. The

The ‘Live Chat’ facility is an exceptional one which Al Tayer Holidays possesses in their website; it increases extreme interest among the travel trade where they can achieve responses instantly along with the transcription of the whole information in their mailbox thereafter for record.

Disney Cruise Line creates an experience unlike others.

Toddlers, children and tweens have their own age-appropriate, Disney-exclusive activities and caring Disney counsellors.

“To assure best product, it’s always advisable to make early bookings of any cruiseline, as for instance for Mediterranean voyage in 2013, it is better to start bookings in

October 2012, as the sailings are always full,” suggested Hussain.

Disney Fantasy was added to the Disney Cruise Line fleet in March 2012 boasting a lavish design and state-of-the-art facilities. Disney Magic takes to destinations in Caribbean, Mediterranean, Canada, New England and Northern Europe.

The Disney Wonder transports to ports of call in the Mexican Riviera and Alaska. Disney Dream is a cruise liner renowned for its design and innovative onboard facilities.

Unmatched Experience ‘Disney Stars’ an online programme for the travel trade After qualifying travel agents are certified as a ‘Disney specialist’ Annual party for encouragement ‘Live Chat’ facility

their

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TRAVTALK

COVER STORY

MAY, 2012

Perfect platform for building relationships Contd. from page 1

year and is as usual looking ahead to attend and participate in ATM 2012 eagerly.

prefer to walk the floor as events like ATM provide a perfect platform for PR exercises.”

Exhibiting for the 14th time in ATM 2012, Lakshmi Durai, Executive Director Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises Middle East updates, “ATM is the perfect forum to ignite discussion and debate among the industry peers and provide an invaluable resource that allows travel and tourism trade professionals to converse on key issues and shape the sector’s future.

In 2011, our bookings increased by 30 per cent and we believe participating at ATM supported this successful result. In ATM 2012, we will promote our cruise vacations and inform new itineraries, revitalised ships and new destinations that we are sailing to.”

“We will once again honour our travel trade partners during the event as the last time with Annual Royal Caribbean Middle East

Ashley Noronha

Lakshmi Durai

In Charge Al Rais Cruise Department

Executive Director, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises Middle East

Most of the agents prefer to walk the floor as events like ATM provide a perfect platform for PR exercise Travel Trade Awards who supported us throughout the year,” she added.

In ATM 2012, we will promote our cruise vacations and present new itineraries, revitalised ships and new destinations The Middle East is an important market for the development of Ras Al

Victor Louis Chief Operating Officer Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority

Clear strategic goals and targets have been set by RAK TIDA to increase the total number of annual visitors to the destination Khaimah as a tourist destination and ATM 2012 will provide the perfect platform to promote the emirates’ various visitor attractions. The Authority will promote RAK as the ‘rising emirate’ and look at new source markets, expanding existing markets of the UAE, surrounding the ME and Europe.

“During the last 12 months, the Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Tourism Development Authority (TDA) participated in many of the major International Travel Shows including WTM 2011 in London and ITB 2012 in Berlin. To promote RAK and educate travel professionals on the emirate’s tourism products and attractions, RAK TDA have also hosted a number of roadshows to various European cities. Clear strategic goals and targets have been set by RAK TIDA including increasing the total number of annual visitors to the destination to 1.2 million by 2013 and increasing the emirate’s total hotel and resort room inventory to 10,000 keys by 2016,” explained Victor Louis, Chief Operating Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.

ATM is an important event for Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) as it helped extensively to promote Thailand to the Middle East market and has helped expand its network. The Event also provides opportunity to showcase its new products and services. Since the opening of UAE TAT office in 2007, the Tourism Board has participated ATM every

Wisoot Buachoom, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Dubai and Middle East elucidate, “This year, we will have more than 70 participants on our stand covering 400 square metres.

In addition, to support Thailand’s leisure market, we will also promote niche markets including Medical Tourism, honeymooners, golfing holidays and Eco Tourism.”

The year 2011 was the best for the visitors from the Middle East to Kenya with a total of 21,128 visitors from the UAE alone, resulting in a 42 per cent increase on visitor numbers from the UAE compared to 2010. The Kenya Tourist Board will be returning to ATM 2012 with its own dedicated stand after a hiatus of 2 years.

“Following extremely positive results from 2011 and the increased air lift from the region with all major carriers, we can now completely engage with the travel trade

Wisoot Buachoom Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Dubai and Middle East

MICE destination, especially for high-end incentive travel and promote the destination as an exciting, value-for-money and educational for school trip travel,” he further added.

Bin Majid Tours & Travel had participated in ATM throughout under the banner of Dubai Tourism Commerce & Marketing (DTCM). For the first time, Bin Majid will represent in ATM 2012 as a group comprising of six companies with 4 hotels - Bin Majid Hotel, Bin Majid Resort Mangroov Hotel and Acasia Hotel, a fleet rent a car company, Impala and Bin Majid Tours.

“For a destination like Dubai, the basic challenges were an instable rhythm between offers and demands but presently the situation is getting better. Dubai is taking ‘more volume out of the destination and more profit out of the situation’. We are receiving big volumes from Asia, thereby competing with Asia and Turkey as a destination. Besides, tough competition and quality of services, competitive creativity is

John Chirchir Regional Marketing Manager, Emerging Markets, Kenya Tourist Board

This year, we will have more than 70 participants on our stand covering 400 square metres, promoting niche markets

We will launch a new Sales Guide Book for the travel trade at ATM and are looking ahead to expand the leisure elements of Kenya in this region

around the region. Hence ATM 2012 will very much focus on Middle East travel trade,” informed John Chirchir, Regional Marketing Manager, Emerging Markets, Kenya Tourist Board.

required,” Manel Khemiri, Deputy General Manager, Bin Majid Tours & Travel put it in plain words.

“We will launch a new Sales Guide Book for the travel trade at ATM and strategically looking ahead to expand the leisure elements of Kenya in this region. In addition, we will increase the focus on Kenya as an ideal short haul

Bin Majid has tried to be the replacement destination for Egypt, Syria, Tunisia while expecting a higher demand for 2012. Besides Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, being the main targets, Bin Majid also sells Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait for Contd. on page 24

HOTELS

MAY, 2012

TRAVTALK

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Fortune enhances its pace Black hotel ‘Go Green’ Fortune Group of Hotels had participated in ATM 2011 for Ramada Ajman with three black towers is a the first time showcasing their 3 hotels and also tied up landmark itself and is now venturing for its first Zero with travel agents based in CIS markets during the event. landfill hotel in Ajman by the first quarter of 2013. ture lovers with varied adventure sports.

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oining hands with Fujairah Tourism & Antiquities Authority in ATM 2012, the Group will showcase its six properties in both Dubai and Fujairah. The Group’s focus of participating in ATM 2012 is to build partnerships and further strengthen its presence locally and across the world.

“Our presence at ATM with Fujairah Tourism & Antiquities Authority has helped us strengthen this association and showcase our products globally with them.

We are soon going to be on the ‘Definitely Dubai’ iphone application that is being widely promoted by DTCM showcasing our hotels in ‘Hot Deals’ section,” stated Alok Narula, Group General Manager, Fortune Group of Hotels – A Praveen Shetty Enterprise.

“This year we will not only focus on specialist indus-

Presently the Group is looking ahead in adding 4 more hotels in Dubai during 2012 which results in 9 properties, all being developed in less than two years, proving it to be the fastest growing chain in UAE. Alok Narula Group General Manager, Fortune Group of Hotels – A Praveen Shetty Enterprise

try days but also consumer days as all our local properties planned in 2011 are ready to be showcased,” he added.

With overall 11 years of hospitality experience, the Hotel Group has products that suit all kind of stays. Be it the need of long stay business or families looking for fully furnished hotel apartments with kitchen facilities.

Fujairah hotel also offers getaway packages for the adven-

Almost around 25-30 per cent of the business comes from the travel agents. Designed exclusively for the travel trade partners in the Middle East and India, the Group have ‘Fortune Preferred Partner Membership (FPPM)’, the programme enrollment is by invitation only. Fam trips are an integral part of the strategy as it always helps bring in travel professionals to experience the products and the services. Some trips are lined up in summer for the travel partners from CIS and Indian Sub-continent.

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by mid-April 2012. It is also opening 60 more keys to make the total inventory to 400 by end of April 2012.

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reen is not a colour, it is the state of mind.

Working on Zero landfill project is to prove how the black hotel can lead to ‘Go Green’ campaign. Setting an example to follow, we will be the first hotel to achieve this in the region,” expressed Iftikhar Hamdani, General Manager, Ramada Hotel & Suites, Ajman.

Predominantly on sustainable measures to improve the bottom line and to take a corporate social responsibility by involving in environmental support, Ramada Ajman engages itself with many activities round the year.

“Around 49 per cent increase in leisure segment is observed with German and Russian being the major feeding market. India comes next with GCC thereafter followed by Pakistani clientele in terms of mix nationality. We had record

Iftikhar Hamdani General Manager Ramada Hotel & Suites, Ajman

business in banquetting at Majestic in 2011 and it continued with the same trend in first quarter 2012,” Hamdani stated. Ajman Tourism Board will have its own pavilion for the first time in ATM 2012 and Ramada Ajman is thrilled to be one of the main contributors with its existing clients and potential partners to promote Ajman as a destination.

Presently, the Hotel offers 336 rooms and another renovated tower to open

“ATM is always an important platform to showcase our facilities and services particularly to attract the GCC guests. “We will also participate in Wyndham brand meeting on the last day of ATM which is a long awaited event for all the Wyndham hotels in the region,” he stated.

CSR Efforts Beach cleaning Regular blood donations camp at the hotel Earth Hour celebration Educating guest on environment support Visits to the elderly home Ajman and special need children in Sharjah

HOTELS

‘Fraser’s Difference’ Frasers Hospitality is all set to showcase its unique products and services to new audiences in ATM 2012. It also plans to introduce ‘Frasers’s Difference’ in the event.

“DTCM fulfils a vital role in not only promoting Dubai as a highly attractive destination, but also engages the tourism industry stakeholders to leverage its immensely successful brand which for us is a win-win outcome,” he added.

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e it travel bureaus, destination marketing organisations, travel trade and even developers seeking a highly respected and professional operator to manage their properties, the hospitality group caters to all.

“We will participate in ATM 2012 jointly with our colleagues from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bahrain, Doha, Istanbul and New Delhi. As Fraser is growing its presence here and worldwide, we always have something innovative to present. Being an international company our clients come from far and wide. However,

Source Market Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar are among the most productive source markets in the region Strong support from UK, USA and many South East Asian countries is also enjoyed

David Brown General Manager Fraser Suites Dubai

Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar are among our most productive source markets in the region. We also enjoy strong support from UK, USA and many South East Asian countries,” informed David Brown, General Manager, Fraser Suites Dubai.

Frasers works closely with the Tourism Boards within the region, most notably Qatar and Bahrain as their properties are located there. Fraser Suites Dubai actively participates in DTCM sponsored roadshows throughout the year.

The travel partners account major contribution to the revenues and it will continue for the years ahead.

The YTD results revealed a strong growth of 22 per cent over 2011.

“We actively market the travel trade and conduct frequent product training sessions to ensure consultants are updated with our latest offers to accurately convey our unique selling points to prospective clients. We have cultivated excellent relationships with a number of key on line, retail and wholesale travel agencies.

We consider them to be our business partners and essential to our future success,” he informed.

Hotspot for sports event Golden Tulip Al Barsha is adding interesting summer packages for every traveller of the region while also hosting 2 major sports event.

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olden Tulip Middle East participates in ATM every year and receives excellent feedback from the clients, business partners and industry professionals. In ATM 2012, the Group is organising a press conference for media and travel agencies to update them with the recent information of Golden Tulip Al Barsha, selected as the ‘Hotel of the Year 2011’ and about the new openings within the Middle East and North Africa. Golden Tulip International participates in all major travel events around the world - ATM, ITB, WTB to name a few.

“Due to the excellent arrangement and control over the travel business in Dubai, the business market for travel agency is well organised. Hence the atmosphere of success is always there. The 2011 business from travel trade was about 60 per cent to our hotel business and we expect it to increase up to 75 per cent

during 2012, 2013, 2014,” informed Tarek Lotfy, General Manager, Golden Tulip Hotel, Al Barsha.

Tarek Lotfy General Manager Golden Tulip Hotel, Al Barsha

The political unrest in the Mediterranean Middle East countries have affected negatively especially for leisure and MICE businesses. But due to the UAE political stability and high standard of security along with the country’s open policy, have supported tourism strongly boosting

the travellers confident to visit the Country.

“We are working closely with Dubai Tourism Authority to stay updated with all the new plans of the country regarding the overall travel industry,” added Lotfy.

Golden Tulip, Al Barsha is working on reducing energy and the operations that increase carbon dioxide by participating in all programmes and activities organised by Dubai Tourism Authority to reduce the negative impact along with more plans that create oxygen to the environment.

Spreading Wings Golden Tulip Al Barsha, selected as the ‘Hotel of the Year 2011’ New openings within the Middle East and North Africa Olympic Games London and Euro Cup in 2012

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TRAVTALK

HOTELS

MAY, 2012

Celebrating its tenth year Promoting Fujairah The Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi consistently Emirates Springs Hotel Apartments, Fujairah is looking participates in ATM every year to present and enhance ahead to attend ATM 2012 as before. Besides promoting its strong presence in the travel and tourism industry. the hotel, it is eager to promote Fujairah as a destination.

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n tune with today’s travellers, we are on the perfect track with the strategy of the Capital introducing our brand in essential corners, renewing our efforts to promote our property and the UAE as a destination,” says Ruprecht Schmitz, General Manager, Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi. “To continue spreading awareness, Millennium’s participation in ATM provides a perfect tool for us to support the tourism industry and Abu Dhabi, which is plentiful of touristic attractions with cultural landmarks, natural beauty, archeological sites and rich history,” he elaborated while talking about the hotel and the destination.

“Such an event is an important medium for the Hotel where it not only provides an unique chance to

showcase the brand, but also to meet the counterparts, industry leaders, stakeholders, etc. Millennium Abu Dhabi’s participation in ATM in the past years has been extremely successful as it

Ruprecht Schmitz General Manager Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi

achieved substantial mileage with respect to the promotion of the hotel due to high brand visibility,” he said.

Unsurprisingly the Millennium brand is gener-

ating plenty of growth in the hospitality industry and ATM will help to envisage and push its plans to grow quickly through networking, liasing with partners, sales efforts, identifying new opportunities in making new contacts with owners and investors.

“Moreover, we seek to develop new revenue streams through developing existing contacts and working on the new ones. All this is in partnership with ADTA and Etihad who are the key contributors to the advancement of tourism in Abu Dhabi,” added Schmitz.

“Celebrating its tenth year, it is exciting to see our efforts being recognised positively by the society, which creates the right image and the best impression,” expressed Schmitz.

competition to attract guest arrivals, yet the property is constantly enhancing its facilities and services for them.

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TM possesses positive impact as it has introduced and marketed the property to the tour operators, companies, tournaments and online web engines both locally and internationally, receiving business propositions for long or short period of time along with marketing through sms and e-mails.

Imran A Siddiqui,

“The strategy to project our hotel this year will almost be the same but will include the tailor-made activities we offer and the newly opened executive suites,” said Imran A Siddiqui, General Manager, Emirates Springs Hotel Apartments – Fujairah.

General Manager, Emirates Springs Hotel Apartments – Fujairah

“We have planned to promote Fujairah with its tourist activities offered along with its surrounding Emirates, to enhance UAE as the leading tourist destination on the whole. We offer our guests, desert safaris,

Due to the political unrest in the surrounding countries, substantial tourists are pouring into UAE. New hotels started mushrooming across the country including Fujairah.

Hence, there is tough

dhow cruises, city and coastal tours, shopping trips, use of private beach facilities, fishing, scuba diving, bird watching and visit of heritage places,” he added.

“The travel agents play a vital role in generating extensive business for us and with all the efforts put together, we are optimistic, that they will be able to introduce our hotel and the services we offer.

We also put forward attractive rates for the potential visitors especially for long stay or group booking,” informed Siddiqui.

Eco Management It has started improving on its eco-management by preserving energy like switching off unnecessary lights and air conditioning during winters and following proper air conditioning maintenance in the summers

Striving to deliver the best Ramada Downtown is participating in Arabian Travel Market 2012 for the second year as an exhibitor with DTCM and the Wyndham Group.

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which will display our rooms and its amenities,” Behi informed. The Hotel receives guests from GCC and is now entering into the Russian and German market as well as in European and Asian market.

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he Exhibitors Diary of ATM 2012 showcases some of the finest and diverse brands coming together, including accommodation, tourism attractions and other benefits.

“Our main objective is to be aggressive and elaborate marketing. With the increasing competitors around the city, we want to aim on being more service oriented. Unique and niche service is the key to diversify our product. ATM will be the right medium to do so,” expressed Wael EL Behi, Executive Assistant Manager, Ramada Downtown.

The year 2012 appears to be promising in terms of revenue and occupancy

Actively Involved The recent launch of the hotel’s Arabic website will help reach out a wide range of guests in and around UAE and GCC Another active project is the Social Media which will take the hotel to a whole new platform of visibility and interaction with the guests

Wael EL Behi Executive Assistant Manager Ramada Downtown

for Ramada Downtown.

It forecasts more guest interactions, more presence online and redecorating in terms of ambience.

The recent launch of the hotel’s Arabic website will help reach out a wide range of guests in and around UAE and GCC. Another active project is the Social Media which will take the hotel to a whole new platform of visibility and interaction with the guests.

This will include branding of the hotel on Facebook, Twitter and Youtube.

“We are also creating a detailed virtual tour of each and every section of the Hotel

Ramada Downtown has an extremely transparent and open-end communication with the travel trade.

The Hotel has been active in organising regular Fam trips and site inspections.

Regular updates are given to all travel agents about promotions, rates and other related information. About 30 per cent of the business, arrived from the travel agents, over the years 2011 and 2012 till date.

“The expectations of every guest are high, meeting them and creating the perfect ambience is constant and an on-going effort. High demand during key periods is slightly a challenge as we are mostly running a full house during New Years, Eid and other festive seasons.

However, we are constantly striving to deliver the best of our services to each guest,” concluded Behi.

HOTELS

Mercure dons a new look Mercure Gold Hotel Al Mina Road Dubai is taking part for the first time in ATM 2012 since the property’s rebranding. The Hotel foresees an increase in demand for business and individual business travellers this year. held throughout the year for both in-house guests and visitors alike.

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he property seeks economic accommodation solutions that maintain high levels of service, convenience and hospitality offerings.

“The key objective to take part in ATM 2012 is to reintroduce the property to new and established partners as Dubai’s first Mercure Gold Hotel. We are excited about new business opportunities and to provide client solu-

Success Story Majority of the hotel bookings arrive from the travel agents, proving participation of the trade as the key aspect to the current and future success of the Mercure Gold Hotel Dubai, either based in UAE or internationally as DMCs.

“We have extended sales network and promotional reach of the property, especially among the European market while our clientele largely originates from Europe and India,” Zilya stated.

Yohan De Zilya General Manager Mercure Hotel

tions to international buyers and business partners regarding bookings, expanded sales network. We also want to work on greater client awareness and understanding the Mercure brand,” informed Yohan De Zilya, General Manager, Mercure Hotel.

Renewed live entertainment options will be introduced at F&B outlets. Various F&B promotions will be

Various site inspections, educational training and awareness programmes are conducted by the sales and marketing team continuously both at the property and through visits to the travel trade directly. Given the rebranding; orientation and awareness campaigns will be carried throughout the year ahead. The travel trade partners interested in these programmes are encouraged to contact directly to acquire greater understanding of working together on mutual benefit.

Nine hotels in one year Since the beginning of 2011, Jumeirah Group observed massive growth by opening 9 new hotels across 3 continents. The most recent being in Frankfurt, the Maldives, Shanghai, Rome, Istanbul and Abu Dhabi.

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umeirah Port Soller Resort & Spa, the first European resort will open in April-end in the Spanish island of Mallorca. The launch of Jumeirah Bilgah Beach Hotel in Baku, Azerbaijan, Jumeirah Creekside in Dubai and Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel in Kuwait will follow thereafter. Several hotels in China are in advanced stages of development and some will open in 2013-2014.

Expansion Plans Jumeirah Port Soller Resort & Spa, the first European resort will open in April-end in the Spanish island of Mallorca The launch of Jumeirah Bilgah Beach Hotel in Baku, Azerbaijan, Jumeirah Creekside in Dubai and Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel in Kuwait will follow thereafter

“ATM 2012 will have a stronger presence than ATM 2011. We intend to maximise our interactions with customers and focus on the promotion of Jumeirah’s new hotels, resorts and residences as well. The Event is a great opportunity to catch up with key clients, partners, stakeholders and even colleagues from other Jumeirah international sales offices,” expressed Christian Pertl, Vice President - Sales and Marketing of Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts Dubai.

“The Arts & Culture platform is now incarnated in various ways throughout our hotels, resorts and residences and is enshrined in our brand promise of ‘Stay Different’, whereby we offer a cultural experience to all our guests,” he further said.

In 2009, Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts in Dubai participated actively in ‘Keep Discovering Dubai’ promotional campaign along with Emirates Airlines, DTCM and other hoteliers from Dubai.

Christian Pertl Vice President - Sales and Marketing Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts Dubai

“Within three months the partners have invited and hosted thousands of travel agents and media professionals to come, discover or rediscover Dubai. The tour operators and travel agents are very important for the Group and are initiated or participated regularly in Fam trips,” he explained.

The Campaign was followed by the ‘Kids Go Free’ promotion over the summer months, involving the same partners.

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TRAVTALK

AVIATION

MAY, 2012

Dubai & Dallas ink pact Royal Jet expands its fleet The non-stop direct flight services between Dubai and Royal Jet’s business and VIP service enhancement Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) provided resulted in net profit increase by 226% in 2011, out of a major boost to the trade relations between the two cities. the total revenue, that increased by 31.2% over 2010.

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FW is participating in Arabian Travel Market 2012. Through increased bilateral relations with DFW, Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DAFZ) hopes to take benefit of the business opportunities available in the Airport region.

Formalising the establishment of a Free Trade Zone Alliance between the two parties and outlining the framework of exchanging expertise and benefitting from business opportunities in the global markets, DAFZ and DFW signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on March 18.

In the presence of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman, Dubai Airport Freezone, the MoU was signed by Mohammed Al Zarooni, Director General, Dubai Airport Freezone and

oth operationally and financially, 2011 was the most successful year ever for Royal Jet,” said Shane O’Hare, President and Chief Executive

Al Maktoum and Rawlings witness Al Zarooni and Fegan signing the MoU

Jeffery P Fegan, CEO, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. Mike Rawlings, Mayor of the City of Dallas and other senior officials from both DAFZ and DFW were present on the occasion.

Al Zarooni stated, “The signing of the agreement with DFW marks one of the most important initiatives by the Freezone during 2012 and we feel privileged to be associated with them.

Through this alliance, we aim to create a platform to con-

duct joint promotional activities to capture all opportunities to achieve our shared goals. We foresee vast potential in the future through the MoU,” he added.

While commenting on the alliance Fegan said, “We look forward to work together and connect two of the world’s most successful free trade zones in Dallas/ Fort Worth and Dubai. Both the Free Zones are strategically located with excellent operations providing outstanding services.

Shane O’Hare President and Chief Executive Officer Royal Jet

Officer, Royal Jet. “We have focussed on delivering better VIP customer service, further raising the benchmark worldwide,” he stated.

Royal Jet’s Medical Evacuation Service, with its state-of-the-art equipment and highly-qualified medical professionals has its own fleet of aircraft which can be converted into air ambulances based on requirements from the market.

“Royal Jet continues to be the most successful Medevac operator with 65 per cent increase in revenue from 192 missions involving 309 patients,” he added.

While most of Royal Jet’s Medevac missions begin or end in the UAE, it has also carried out missions across the Middle East, Europe,

Upgrading Fleet Royal Jet’s fast-growing fleet of jets includes six Boeing Business Jets, which makes the Airline the world’s largest single BBJ operator It has commissioned US$ 9 million upgrade for one of its six-strong fleet of BBJs

Africa, America, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Royal Jet has also recorded significant improvements on its brokerage, aircraft management and Fixed Base Operations (FBO) business units. The brokerage team recorded an increase in gross revenue by 53 per cent.

Its fast-growing fleet of jets includes six Boeing Business Jets, which makes the Airline, the world’s largest single BBJ operator.

It has commissioned US$ 9 million upgrade for one of its six-strong fleet of BBJs.

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TRAVTALK

AVIATION

MAY, 2012

Increasing flight frequency Say ‘Hello Tomorrow’ With wider seat and configuration capacity, Emirates is embarking on a new campaign with a Turkish Airlines has added Airbus A321 dual cabin new brand promise as the Company continues its aircraft to its fleet flying from Abu Dhabi to Istanbul. evolution from a travel brand to a global lifestyle brand.

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the capital,” informed S Samil Karakas, General Manager, Turkish Airlines, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain.

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he Airline is planning to increase its Abu Dhabi frequency from 4 to daily flights while opening some new destinations from the capital through Istanbul.

The travel between UAE and Turkey has observed a stable ascend over the last few years. In addition to both the destinations being attractive tourist spots, business between the two countries has seen a strong rise in the last decade.

Business Coverage Around 60% of the business comes in from the travel trade and the rest comes through online using different GDSs in different areas The load factor has increased by 9% with business and leisure travel on equal equation

Samil Karakas General Manager Turkish Airlines, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain

“To promote Abu Dhabi as a leisure destination is one of the key aims of Turkish Airlines. Having excellent relation with different hotels, Destination Management companies, apt support from Abu Dhabi Tourism Board, we arrange international famtrips to Abu Dhabi. We will be organising fam trips to Abu Dhabi from Spain in May and from Germany in October 2012 to promote

To impart proper education and create awareness about the destination among the travel trade, the Airline organises three fam trips to Istanbul in a month and around 10 in a year. The three trips in a month comprise General Managers of different companies, followed by women members of varied agencies and thereafter with the mixed trade. To encourage their performances, the Airline also arranges an Annual Award ceremony for the trade.

“To promote Abu Dhabi as a new leisure destination we expect to increase more in summer, during EID and during year-end. We will participate in ATM 2012 as usual every year,” Karakas concluded.

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people from point A to point B but is also playing the role of a catalyst to connect people’s hopes, dreams and aspirations.” “Emirates is connecting people and cultures creating relevant and meaningful experiences that are shaping the world,” he added.

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mirates launched a new global brand platform and direction, themed ‘Hello Tomorrow’, which positions the global airline as the enabler of global connectivity and meaningful experiences.

The new brand campaign captures the passion for connecting people’s hopes, dreams and aspirations.

Designed for the age of consumer engagement and empowerment, ‘Hello Tomorrow’ is about inspiring people to greet tomorrow’s unlimited potential. ‘Hello’ is a greeting, an invitation to a person, a place or an experience. While, ‘Tomorrow’ is a time, a place, a state of mind and the unlimited possibility of the future. The Airline is trying the unfamiliar, create new ideas and form new visions way. The theme encapsulates life’s potential while embracing

Maurice Flanagan Executive Vice Chairman Emirates Airline and Group

the future with all the possibilities it holds.

“Our new corporate image and global marketing campaign both underline the confidence we have in our existing products and services and the vision we have for the future growth of the Airline,” said Maurice Flanagan, Executive Vice Chairman, Emirates Airline and Group. “Emirates is not just offering a way to connect

As the world becomes more interconnected, borders are being blurred and people are becoming more mobile and globally focussed than ever before. Emirates represents these global individuals as ‘globalistas’.

Globalistas represent individuals who are looking and living for new experiences. They are well travelled or have aspirations to join the ranks of the well-travelled.

The campaign was created with Emirates lead communications partner Strawberry Frog.

TECHNOLOGY

Expanding its network Sabre Travel Network Middle East (STNME) experienced a strong growth across all Middle East and North Africa (MENA) markets in 2011.

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market leader in most GCC countries, Sabre signed partnership agree-

to serve the Kuwaiti travel industry. Sabre also opened a second office in Egypt, based in Alexandria, to meet the continued growth in travel

the travel industry including Kanoo, Alshamel, Fursan and dnata while expanding our presence in new countries around the region,” said Naoumovitch.

As a sign of its ongoing commitment to the region, Sabre doubled its regional headquarters in Bahrain to accommodate its growing workforce. It is the only GDS with a regional headquarter in the region with the Bahrain office supporting its 21 offices in 11 countries in the GCC, Africa and the Levant to accommodate its growing workforce.

(L-R): Naoumovitch; Harald Eisenacher, Senior VP, Europe, ME & Africa (EMEA) and Dean Bibb, VP, EMEA from Sabre at the Bahrain office opening

ments with all major Middle Eastern travel agencies including Alshamel International, dnata, Kanoo Travel and Fursan Travel and Tourism.

In May, Sabre opened a new office in Kuwait, highlighting the importance of the market and its commitment

demand through the Arab Spring.

Daniel Naoumovitch, CEO, STNME said that against all odds, it’s been another exceptional year for Sabre. “We enjoyed another healthy year of growth, renewing agreements with some of the biggest names in

Last year also saw the launch of Sabre Red and Sabre Red Workspace, which was specifically launched to help agents in the ME to shop, book and manage travel in low bandwidth areas. The subsequent launch of Sabre Red Graphical View and its social media solution AgentStream, both ‘firsts’ for the region, confirmed Sabre as the most innovative technology provider in the region.

‘Trio’ bag GDS deals Travelport signed multi-year GDS deals with 3 major travel agencies in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain – Irena Travel, Skyline Travels and Al Jaraf Travel and Tourism.

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he new contracts include an exclusive agreement with Al Jaraf Travel and Tourism that will see a full migration to Travelport’s Galileo platform across its agency network in Abu Dhabi. At the same time, Al Ain-based Skyline Travels has signed an exclusive agreement to establish Galileo as its exclusive GDS, while Irena Travel has inked a deal that will integrate the GDS for the first time into the agency’s Abu Dhabi operations.

All are growing travel and tourism companies with multiple retail outlets and plans to support their growth efforts by leveraging on Travelport’s offering, which includes a local office that provides Abu Dhabi and Al Ain travel agency customers with fully-equipped sales, training and help desk support. A comprehensive training programme has already been launched to bring each

(L-R): Thayyil, KM, Saab, Butt and Al Balooshi

agency’s employees up to speed on the latest Galileo products and functionalities.

Representatives from Travelport, Irena, Al Jaraf and Skyline all met recently to officially seal the agreements, paving the way for long-term partnerships.

Rabih Saab, President & Managing Director - Middle East and Africa, Travelport was in attendance, along with Ghulam Al Balooshi, Director - Lower GCC, Travelport; Amir Thayyil, General Manager, Irena Travel; Mahmood Butt, General Manager, Al Jaraf Travel and Tourism and Hamsa

K M, General Manager, Skyline Travels.

“Thanks to our exceptional technology and dedicated local resources, Travelport has been able to build great momentum in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain and ultimately gain the trust of such high-calibre travel agencies,” said Al Balooshi. “We are proud to be affiliated with such reputable, fast-growing travel agencies and look forward to working closely with them supporting their dynamic businesses with the best GDS offering in the UAE,” he stated.

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AGENTS

MAY, 2012

Growing by leaps & bounds First GSA for Mihin Lanka Satguru Travel & Tourism has grown to be the largest Travel Management Company in Africa. In Q1 2012, it launched a B2B online portal for agents, where one can book airline tickets, hotel accommodation, etc.

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traditional and Online Travel Agency, Chandirani speaks, “We see lots of growth for OTA. The traditional travel agencies need to be innovative to stay abreast in today’s competitive world. Keeping this in mind we have launched our portal, Toptraveltrip.

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e have planned to launch an outbound Holiday brochure at ATM 2012 and will inaugurate our B2C and B2E online portal for the customer and corporate clients by Q2-Q3 2012,” confirmed Anil Chandirani, CEO, Satguru Travel & Tourism.

Offering comprehensive and extensive services that deliver strategic value, innovative technology and true travel consulting, the Company has a turnover of US$ 600 million, rated as

‘Numero Uno’ The Company had a turnover of US$ 600 million, rated as Number One Travel Management Company in West, East, Central Africa and ME

Anil Chandirani CEO, Satguru Travel & Tourism

Number One Travel Management Company in West, East, Central Africa and Middle East. It does joint promotions with many of the tourism boards like Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, India, Visit Britain to name few.

New technology is being introduced everyday and the clients keep expecting better services with minimal cost.

Commenting on the role of

“We are the online GSA for Kenya Airways, Ethiopian, ASky Airlines, Air Burkina, Air Uganda, Hahn Air, Egypt Air, Mauritania Airlines. We are also the Passenger Sales Agents (PSA) of Emirates, Jet Airways and ASky in selected regions,” he added.

Despite tough competition, if the traditional travel agent offers a competitive price and good services the clients will prefer to buy from them as they will receive more options like airline tickets, hotel accommodation, travel insurances, holiday packages and car rentals.

Trident Travel has been appointed as the first GSA for Mihin Lanka Airlines in Dubai and Northern Emirates on April 1. The Company functions as a ‘one-stop travel shop’ offering a range of travel solutions.

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eing a member of the Rais Hussain Saadi Group, Trident Travel, established in 1991, is a comprehensive corporate and leisure travel management company.

“We aim to increase Mihin Lanka’s customer awareness market share by aggressively targetting corporate houses, travel agents and leisure travellers who have the potential business for Mihin Lanka’s destinations,” expressed Gulshan Shaideen, Manager, Trident Travel.

Being an Accredited IATA agent, Trident has also expanded its reach to global

markets by forging partnerships with reputed and established companies worldwide.

“Our business has increased by 25 per cent in 2012 over 2011 and expects another 12 to 14 per cent for the remaining year. We are offering Holiday packages with special rates that have been negotiated with some tour operators for Sri Lanka

Gulshan Shaideen Manager, Trident Travel

Company Facts Besides being appointed for selling Ponant Cruises from February 1, 2012, Griffin – Trident marine travel is a joint venture between Trident Travels and Griffin Marine Travel

and Maldives. We are also well connected with the Sri Lankan Embassy, Desert clubs Cricket Academy, Sri Lanka travel trade club and with the overall Sri Lankan community in the UAE,” Shaideen informed.

‘Connecting the world’ Connect World provides travel solutions to both inbound and outbound from tickets to hotels and packages among others. The Company will be officially launching its B2B portal in ATM 2012.

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onnect World Travel & Tourism holds direct contract with 332 hotels and resort in Dubai from 5-star luxury properties to 3-star categories. With a young and experienced team with hospitality background, Connect World has merged with one of the top seller for iconic properties like Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Group, Atlantis the Palm & other luxury properties.

To meet the growing demands of the guests and provide accurate information and assistance; a 24-hour dedicated Concierge service is now functional to all

Celebrating the launch of Raviz Kollam in India Ravi Pillai, Chairman, Raviz International Hospitality Management with Bollywood icon Shahrukh Khan at the opening of Raviz Kollam in India

Team Connect World

Connect World guests that visit Dubai.

Meeting the growing demands of business from CIS destinations, the Company opened their branch office in Russia which is fully operational at present.

The Company participates in roadshows along with Dubai Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) which has helped in achieving a significant business growth. India and China are booming and has made a great impact on Dubai’s tourism.

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MAY, 2012

FAMILY ALBUM

Discovering future trends for the trade Supported by Reed Travel Exhibitions and Abu Dhabi, GIBTM attracts a wide range of local, regional and international organisations. It indicates the importance of the event as the only proven platform in the Middle East to access the growing Meetings industry. New business partnership and latest innovations marked GIBTM 2012. The event was held on March 26-28, 2012 at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi.

FAMILY ALBUM

MAY, 2012

GIBTM 2012 explores MICE sector

TRAVTALK

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TRAVTALK

EXHIBITIONS

MAY, 2012

1,25,000 visitors in Q1 2012 ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre) welcomed 64 events during the first quarter of the year with exhibitions, conferences,

Airport Show 2012

Witnessing 20% increase in participants The Airport Show 2012 will be held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Center from May 22-24, 2012. The Event is expected to attract over 5,000 trade visitors from 65 countries, while offering the travel trade an access to the ME aerospace market.

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Humaid Al Dhaheri Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, ADNEC

meetings and weddings at the venue, attracting more than 1,25,000 visitors.

Humaid Al Dhaheri, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, ADNEC commented, “Last year proved to be quiet a success for ADNEC as we hosted 231 events. This year appears to be equally promising taking into consideration the numbers reported during Q1. The different types of events taking place at ADNEC are in line with the ‘Abu Dhabi 2030 Vision’.”

he role of the aviation sector in Dubai’s economy will grow further in the coming years due to the massive expansion programmes of airports,” said Jamal Al Hai, Executive Senior Vice President, Communications and International Affairs, Dubai Airports during his meeting with Frederic Theux, President and CEO, Reed Exhibitions Middle East and

About Us The Airport Show, which is now biennial, has firmly established itself as one of the world's leading events devoted exclusively to airport construction, operations, technology and services

Jamal Al Hai Executive Senior VP, Communications and International Affairs, Dubai Airports

Mohamad Bader-Eddin, Show Director, Airport Show.

The meeting addressed many issues related to the airport industry and covered the preparations for the 2012 edition of Airport.

Al Hai said, “Dubai is the leading air transport industry hub in the region and has the capacity and

Frederic Theux

Mohamad Bader-Eddin

President and CEO Reed Exhibitions Middle East

Show Director Airport Show

capability of hosting exhibitions and conferences for the aviation industry successfully. This was supported by the achievements of the Dubai Airshow and our high expectations of success for the Airport Show, which will be held in May 2012.”

Theux praised the support being provided by

Dubai Airports, Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai World Central.

With over 160 international companies participating in the previous edition of the Airport Show, Reed Exhibitions, the exhibition organising company, expects an increase of 15% to 20% in the number of exhibitors for the next upcoming edition.

The 2012 edition will be taking place at a time when billions of dollar will be invested in the expansion of airports in the UAE, these include US$ 8 billion for the Dubai International development and AED 25 billion for Abu Dhabi Airport. In addition, billions of dollars have been invested in expansion programmes of airports in GCC states and other parts of the Middle East.

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman & Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, the Airport Show is supported by leading international industry associations and local government authorities.

Global Aerospace Summit Rising eminence of GIBTM Abu Dhabi Aviation, Maximus Air and Royal Jet jointly More than 270 Hosted Buyers attended this year’s show sponsored the inaugural Global Aerospace Summit 2012. and 7,672 pre-scheduled appointments took place The Event took place in Abu Dhabi from April 16-19. resulting in an increase of over 8 per cent from 2011.

T T B U R E AU he Summit was held under the Patronage of General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

towards achieving the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030.

Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) is also a majority equity stakeholder in Royal Jet and Maximus Air. Together they have already helped establish Abu Dhabi’s reputation as one of the world’s top aviation hubs.

The Event incorporated 3 themes; aerospace, aviation and space, which was complemented by closed door discussions, a private procurement meeting programme, field trips to aerospace and aviation facilities and a careers programme targetting vocational and professional development.

“Success helps breed success and while all three companies delivered very strong financial and operational performances in 2011 contributing to this overall profit, what is more satisfying are each’ s plans for future growth,” said Nadir Al Hammadi, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Aviation.

The Abu Dhabi Aviation Group has led the way

Shane O’Hare, President and CEO, Royal Jet

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stated, “The year 2011 saw a number of challenges on a global scale, but for us, achieving simple year-onyear growth counted as a creditable performance. We take pride in our role in helping to deliver the strategic vision for Abu Dhabi and we have a number of new initiatives planned for 2012.”

Fathi Hilal Buhazza, President and CEO, Maximus Air said, “We are looking west to the fast growing regions of the Middle East/North Africa and east to China and other Asian tiger economies along with India.

With Abu Dhabi as our base, we are ideally located to serve these markets on a commercial basis.”

India maintains its rank as the 2nd best tourist market India has maintained its ranking as the secondlargest international source market for Abu Dhabi's hotels after the UK, a new data has revealed. Hotel guests from India to the UAE

capital registered a 45 per cent rise to 10,924, delivering 37,559 guest nights, which was up by 17 per cent month-on-month, according to the latest figures released by the Abu Dhabi Tourism &

Culture Authority. The number of guests at Abu Dhabi's 127 hotels, hotel apartments and resorts rose 29 per cent in January this year compared to the same month last year, the report said.

Such a considerable increase in the number of seminar attendees is a testament to the growing prominence of the incentives, business travel and meetings industry within the GCC as professionals are eager to learn about best practices, future trends and how to maximise their potential.

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niversally described as a business-focussed event, GIBTM 2012, witnessed an increase in senior exhibitors and buyers from the Middle East, Asia and Saudi Arabia compared to 2011.

Carried out by Reed Travel Exhibitions, the event organisers for GIBTM and supported by the latest Global Meetings Industry Research report for the Gulf, Middle East and North Africa, the growth within the region emerged as a prominent theme throughout the event.

The highly anticipated report revealed that UAE (Abu Dhabi and Dubai) is on the top ten lists of countries that Middle East and global buyers hold events in.

Based on the report, the event organisers have planned to increase the volume of events and their budgets, for the region.

Increasingly popular sessions continued through-

Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan Chairman, ADTCA

out the show with GIBTM’s first ever Arabic session delivered by Ali Al Saloom of Ask-Ali.com.

Seminars held by leading associations like The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) attracted several professionals along with some sessions adopting a ‘standing only’ policy to contain maximum capacity.

A record-breaking number of hosted buyers and trade visitors attended a highly targetted education programme exceeding figures from last year by 48 per cent.

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (ADTCA), GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include ADTCA, ADNEC, AskAli.com, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company amongst many others.

Upbeat View More than 270 Hosted Buyers attended this year’s show and 7,672 pre-scheduled appointments took place resulting in increase of over 8 per cent from 2011

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Cultural dimension

Ajman Tourism steps in

SCTA recently organised the ‘Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Forum 2012’ that was sponsored

by Elaf Group. The forum was held at the Riyadh International Exhibition Center from April 2 to 5, 2012.

It is indeed creditable for the Ajman Tourism Development Department to participate in ATM 2012 at such an infant stage considering the fact that it has been operational only since January 2012.

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laf Group recently sponsored the ‘Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Forum 2012’ which was inaugurated by Sattam bin Abdul Aziz, Governor of Riyadh and organised by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) at the Riyadh International Exhibition Center from April 2 to 5, 2012.

The Forum hosted 23 technical sessions to discuss the major issues related to the tourism experience in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Event attracted wide participation from various government entities, including Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs, Ministry of Culture and Information, Saudi Commission for Wildlife

Ziyad Bin Mahfouz President Elaf Group of Companies

Conservation and Development (NCWCD), Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Industry and Trade, Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), Arab Tourism Organisation, National Tourism Committee, advisory committees, tour operators, in addition to travel and tourism companies from the private sector.

Commenting on the tourism development in the region, Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, President, Elaf Group of Companies and a member of the tourism development council for the Makkah region under the chairmanship of Khalid Al Faisal, Emir of Makkah and the Tourism Development Council in Jeddah under the chairmanship of Mishal bin Majed bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Jeddah, pointed out that the forum plays a vital role in highlighting the tourism potential in Saudi Arabia. He underlined the significance of the event, emphasising that it hosted a series of sessions and workshops aimed at highlighting the interest in the cultural dimension of tourism and the effective tools to develop and promote the growth of tourism in Saudi Arabia.

ther. Buses and taxis, as local transportation, are abundant, but the quality standard needs to be raised by providing maps, proper services and securities,” he explained.

S U S M I TA G H O S H

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e are in the process of understanding every minute detail of the tourism industry from our neighbouring Emirates. Being at the strategic location of UAE, in the middle of other Emirates and based on the information and services provided by others, we need to understand what all we can provide to complete the cycle of tourism,” expressed Faisal Al Nuaimi, General Manager, Ajman Tourism Development Department.

“As Oman has recently been declared as the Capital of Arab Tourism and geographically has similarity with Ajman, we had exchange of information and tried to develop interrelation with the country. We are trying to bring in business

Five Components International transportation Local transportation Accommodation F&B Entertainment

Regarding Accommodation, there are 23 hotels in the Emirate presently, while more are coming up within next 2 years, he informed.

Faisal Al Nuaimi General Manager Ajman Tourism Development Department

tourism to enhance investment in Ajman. We have also travelled to Lebanon and Qatar to get a feel of the international tourist attraction,” he further stated.

There are 5 components to make a destination a proper tourist destination – international transportation, local transportation, accommodation, food, beverages and entertainment.

“At this stage, to provide airport facilities, we can sign agreement with Sharjah International Airport which is 15 minutes away or RAK Airport, which is a little far-

“Our strategic plan will be designed and implemented based on next 5 years but we will keep improving based on the feedback we will receive on a monthly basis,” informed Al Nuaimi.

Tourists are not the direct users but travel agents, hotels, restaurants, transportation are termed as the direct users who serve the tourists. There are 105 travel agents operating in Ajman.

The Tourism Board has planned to organise travel trade roadshows and workshops in May and training sessions to understand what the trade expects and update the expectation of the Tourism Board.

Honouring the travel trade Contd. from page 8

some major MICE events happening in the region.

ATM 2012 will be the first year of participation for Dallas Fort Worth Airport.

This follows the recent launch of the Emirates non-stop direct daily flight to Dallas Fort Worth in February 2012.

“We are here at ATM to support the flight and build corporate, passenger and travel trade awareness of the benefits for choosing Dallas Fort Worth as a convenient, cost and time effective hub for travel throughout North and Latin America.

Dallas Fort Worth Airport is keen to establish strong business and personal bonds with the Middle Eastern, Indian and African travel trade,” informed Jeffery Fegan, CEO, Dallas Fort Worth Airport.

“The key messages we intend to convey for the Airport are its excellent connectivity, five world class terminals, gourmet experiences, convenient inter-terminal

Manel Khemiri Deputy General Manager Bin Majid Tours & Travel

Dubai is taking ‘more volume out of the destination and more profit out of the situation’

access, Diamond Award winning hotel inside Terminal D

Jeffery Fegan CEO Dallas Fort Worth Airport

We are here at ATM to support the flights and build corporate, passenger and travel trade awareness of the benefits for choosing DFW

and it’s extremely tech-savvy features,” he further said.

NEWS

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On an expansion spree And the nominees are...

Al Mulla Travels and Tourism has grown significantly since inception and has been spreading its wings to Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. The Company is looking forward to ATM 2012.

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olidays, Inbound and Umrah tours are the main focus of the present development plan and other areas are on MICE business, an emerging market.

“We will soon conduct leisure trip with family groups and educational tours focussing on cruise segment. Besides these we will have three fliers (standard, local and cruise segments) and would explore the sub agent’s network extensively to market these products,” informed Saleem Mogral, General Manager, Al Mulla Travels and Tourism.

“In mid-September 2011, we started our environment special ‘Go Green’ tours with an educational point of view.”

Al Mulla Travels had launched an online travel

portal during October-end 2011. This B2B booking engine was launched to bridge the gap between the industry partners. A login ID and password is issued to the travel agents, to help them sell holiday packages to their clients. The agents will also enjoy a 7 per cent commission on each package tailormade by the team. “It’s an endeavour to strengthen our hold in the industry and bring our counterparts closer,” Mogral added.

Al Mulla works closely with some tourism boards,

Tapping the Market Will conduct leisure trips Launched a B2B online portal 7% commission to agents on each package tailormade by the team

Arabian Travel Market has released the names of destinations nominated for this year’s New Frontiers Award, the results of which will be revealed at a special ceremony at this year’s event in Dubai.

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aunched in 2005 by ATM, ‘The New Frontiers Award’ was created to recognise outstanding contributions to tourism development in the face of overwhelming adversity, helping the chosen destination by donating exhibition space at the event to the value of US$ 10,000.

Saleem Mogral General Manager Al Mulla Travels and Tourism

creating best value-formoney packages and is tied up with key corporate and event management companies to bring in some remarkable changes. Though the challenges are immense, Al Mulla continues to work at a same pace possibly due to having the right team in place, wishing all the trade partners the very best.

Making the shortlist for 2012 are Australia, Brazil and Japan, all of which suffered devastating natural catastrophes over the last 12 months, said Mark Walsh, Portfolio Director, Arabian Travel Market – Reed Travel Exhibitions.

“Natural disasters occurred on an unprecedented scale across the globe in 2011, causing billions of dollars of damage, significant loss of life and economic

Mark Walsh Portfolio Director, Arabian Travel Market – Reed Travel Exhibitions

challenges impacting every sector, with the tourism industry a major casualty,” he said. “Some of the world’s most popular destinations have seen Inbound Tourism grind to a halt, with tourism receipts as well as the livelihoods of industry professionals adversely affected at every level,” he explained.

“These devastated regions have to not only clean up and rebuild their communities, but also reevaluate their strategies and funding while embarking on comprehensive international marketing campaigns to re-establish market confidence and drive tourist traffic,” said Walsh while adding, “The New Frontiers Award is our contribution to accelerate that recovery process while highlighting the ongoing efforts to rebuild this vital sector of the economy to industry peers during the event week.”

Last year, Chile received the New Frontiers Award in recognition of its efforts to rebuild its shattered post2010 earthquake tourism industry, which saw 80% of the population, as well as the entire economy, affected.

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MOVEMENTS

Hyatt Saudi Arabia

Jumeirah Group Dubai

Golden Tulip Al Barsha Dubai

Anas Abdullah is the newly appointed Director of World Wide

Shaf Butt is the new Director of Marketing for the Dubai

Sales for Saudi Arabia. His new appointment will further consolidate Hyatt’s growing brand recognition and presence in the country.

He comes with more than 10 years of experience in the hotel industry.

Abdullah was with Hyatt for nearly 8 years. He began with Grand Hyatt Amman in 2004 and was promoted to Associate Director of Sales at Park Hyatt Jeddah in 2009.

Commercial Team. A British national, Butt has been with the Jumeirah Group since 2007, initially responsible for Rooms Marketing at Madinat Jumeirah – The Arabian Resort. In 2009 he was promoted to Director of Marketing - Rooms for the Dubai hotels. Before joining Jumeirah, he held key marketing positions for companies such as Carphone Warehouse in London, UK and Axiom Telecom in the Middle East.

Hani Shahwan joins Golden Tulip Al Barsha as the new Director of Sales. Shahwan previously held the same position for Golden Tulip Khatt Springs, Dibba and Khasab.

He held various roles and positions while working with Rotana Hotels and Millennium & Copthorne Group. He gained his 12 years experience working with hotels in UAE and Greece.

Sabre Travel Network EMEA London

Etihad Airways Germany

Tilal Liwa Hotel Abu Dhabi

Frank Bachér has been appointed as the Vice President for Online Segment in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). He will start with his new appointment with Sabre on June 1, 2012. Bachér joins Sabre from the InteractiveMedia group at Deutsche Telekom AG, where he served as Managing Director, Sales and Marketing. Prior to that, he was the Chairman of the Board and Managing Director for eBay Advertising Group.

Philip Lewin has been appointed as the new General

Ayman Ashor has been appointed as the General Manager for

Manager for Germany for Etihad Airways German Sales and Marketing Operations. Lewin has almost twenty year of experience working in the aviation industry and joins the UAE flag carrier from American Airlines, where he has recently held the position of Country Manager India.

Tilal Liwa Hotel, located in Abu Dhabi Western Region managed

by Danat Hotels & Resorts. Ashor is a Dutch national and an accomplished Hotelier with over 19 years experience in the industry.

Prior to this, he was with Concorde Hotel & Spa Fujairah where he has been the opening Hotel Manager since February 2010.

IBN Batuta Gate Dubai Dubai

Ramada Downtown Dubai Dubai

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates Dubai

Yasmine Hidalgo has been appointed as the new Public

Khaled Rageh is the new Front Office Manager for

Relations Manager for Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel. Originally from The Philippines, Hidalgo brings more than a decade of international public relations and marketing experience to the role with professional exposure across a number of industry sectors, including media channels and FMCG brands.

With an MA in Communications and Journalism, she is fluent in English and Spanish and has lived and worked in nine countries.

Ramada Downtown Dubai. Rageh brings over 10 years of hospitality experience and has worked in several prestigious hospitality brands.

Prior to his employment in Dubai, he assumed several hospitality positions in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. In his new role, he will be in charge of supervising all front desk services and personnel to ensure that the guest receives prompt, efficient and personalised service.

Jardine Ong joins Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates as Training Manager within the hotel’s Human Resources team. Prior to this, she was working with Azadea Group, where she served as a training manager since 2009. During her five years in the UAE, she has worked on training consultancy programmes for a number of high-profile clients with complex training requirements from various industries such as aviation, banking and finance as well as retail among others.

Jordan Tourism Board’s special efforts for differently-abled

Nayef H Al Fayez, Jordan Minister of Tourism & Antiquities, hosted a graduation ceremony for tour guides and tourist police officers that have completed a sign language course. The Event was organised by the Jordan Tourism Board, in cooperation with Ali Bin Al Hussein Club for the Deaf and Mute in Zarqa and with the Jordan Applied University College for Hospitality and Tourism Education. This sign language course is the first of its kind in the Arab world and is considered the first step in the Jordan Tourism Board’s direction to target deaf and mute travellers from around the world. The Board also plans on producing a promotional film in sign language to promote Jordan as a destination that can cater to the needs of these travellers.