Middle East TravtTalk October 2013

A DDP PUBLICATION

Pages: 16

ddppl.com

travtalkmiddleeast.com

Vol. IX No. 10; October 2013

Scripting success stories ......................................................................................04 Oman bowls over movie moguls ..........................................................................13 Nigeria eyes Indian hospitals ..............................................................................16

Meet the world at ITB Asia 2013 As a global melting pot for the travel industry, ITB Asia 2013 will take place at the Suntec Singapore Exhibition & Convention Centre from October 23 to 25, 2013. This leading travel trade show sold out four months ahead of its opening date, and is expected to be even bigger and better this year.

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eaturing exhibitors from destinations, attractions, airlines and airports, hotels and resorts, tour operators and so on from Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East, covering leisure, corporate and MICE travel – all are expected to attend.

Now in its sixth year, this three-day annually held B2B trade show and convention is set to be even bigger and better.

“As part of our commitment to enhance the quality of buyers at the show year-onyear, we’ll be investing in a new IT partner to improve the match-making algorithms for even higher-quality meetings.

Our programme has consistently attracted top quality buyers and we hope to take it to an even higher level as the show enters its sixth year,” informed Nino Gruettke, Executive Director, ITB Asia.

In 2012, ITB Asia recorded almost 8,500 attendees, a 12 per cent increase from 2011, representing 92 countries, making it one of

the region’s most international travel trade events. Messe Berlin (Singapore), organiser of ITB Asia, ‘The Trade Show for the Asian Travel Market’, has announced a strategic three-year partnership with integrated resort, Marina Bay Sands, starting in 2014. The next three editions of ITB Asia will take place at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

Through this new agreement, Marina Bay Sands will also be ITB Asia’s official hotel partner hosting international buyers, providing an integrated experience for all delegates.

“Marina Bay Sands offers ITB Asia a unique value proposition, which includes accommodation for attendees as official hotel partner and conferencing facilities as official venue.

The venue’s prominence together with ITB Asia’s reputation as a leading trade show will help to attract and grow leisure, MICE and corporate industry partnerships.

This partnership also provides ITB Asia with the space we need to grow this industry

platform over the next few years and expand our exhibition and conference programme to reach out to more delegates and exhibitors worldwide,” further expressed Gruettke.

George Tanasijevich, President and CEO, Marina Bay Sands, revealed, “This three-year partnership with ITB Asia is a very powerful testament of our commitment to remain the number one business and leisure destination in Asia. With ITB Asia’s long standing reputation and extensive reach throughout the region, we are very confident that this partnership will solidify our leadership within the MICE industry. We are very privileged to be chosen as a partner, and we look forward to delivering an exceptional Marina Bay Sands experience through ITB Asia.”

Each October, the trade show attracts over 8,000 participants, representing more than 90 countries, allowing delegates to ‘meet the world in three days’. ITB Asia is a partner event of TravelRave as well, a mega travel and tourism festival week organ-

Nino Gruettke

George Tanasijevich

Mohamed Ali Al Noman

Executive Director ITB Asia

President and CEO Marina Bay Sands

Chairman SCTDA

ITB Asia has consistently attracted top quality buyers, and we hope to take it to an even higher level

ised by the Tourism Board.

Singapore

The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has been regularly participating

We are very confident that this partnership will solidify our leadership within the MICE industry

in ITB Asia for the past five years. The annual B2B trade fair, will once again showcase Sharjah’s travel and tourism industry.

Mohamed Ali Al Noman,

In 2012, Sharjah received more than 227,000 tourists from Asia, which makes 13 per cent of total visitor numbers

Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority elucidated, “This year Sharjah will once again be taking part in the strategic Contd. on page 3

COVER STORY

OCTOBER, 2013

TRAVTALK

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ITB: Strategic B2B trade exhibition

Contd. from page 1

B2B trade exhibition in view of the encouraging and positive results of the earlier participations marked by the increasing number of tourists from Asian markets. The number of Asian tourists to Sharjah has been steadily growing in the past few years. In 2012, the Emirate received more than 227,000 tourists from Asia, which makes 13 per cent of total visitor numbers.”

ITB Asia is an important promotional platform for various international destinations, and major travel & tourism players and stakeholders. It is also an ideal

Outbound Market Singapore’s outbound travel market increased by 4.1 per cent in 2012, resulting in a total of 8.05 million overseas trips Seventy per cent of the population is estimated to travel overseas at least once each year, with 79 per cent of that travel attributed to leisure travel and holidays

opportunity to increase tourism investments by meetings with leading Asian investors as well as interact with other tourism players and world media.

In response to the query how this event help the leisure, corporate and MICE travel industry in the region, he further informed, “Singapore is a regional hub of not just the leisure market but also of MICE travel industry. So the exhibition naturally helps us tap these markets. Of late, the MICE or business tourism sector has been growing at a breathless pace in the Gulf region in general, and in UAE and Sharjah in particular.”

“We at the Ministry of Tourism Creative Economic of Indonesia has participated in ITB Asia 2012 and will be attending ITB Asia 2013 too.

Based on the report received from the industry, the overall outcome was quite good last year. To facilitate the increase of demand from the participated industry from all over Indonesia, we always enlarge the space for Indonesia Pavilion,” asserted

Chrismiastutie

Michael Gaebler

Deputy Director of International Promotion for ASEAN Region, Ministry of Tourism Creative Economic of Indonesia

Chairman & CEO AVIAREPS Group

ITB Asia is very helpful not only for leisure market, but also for corporate and MICE travel Chrismiastutie, Deputy Director of International Promotion for ASEAN Region, Ministry of Tourism Creative Economic of Indonesia. “We think that this event is very

AVIAREPS has seen Singapore as a strategic, growing outbound travel market helpful not only for leisure market, but also for corporate and MICE travel, by facilitating the industry to meet all the prospective buyers that are invited by ITB Asia

Committee. And the proximity of this event really helps us, we do not have to go to Berlin to do such thing.”

do well to consider when planning their international marketing and sales activities.

AVIAREPS, the global leader in tourism, aviation and hospitality representation with 46 offices in 38 countries around the world, has been experiencing growing interest for representation in Singapore as hospitality and retail organisations seek to increase visitation and spend from outbound travellers of the South-East Asian city-state.

With the opening of our directly owned office in Singapore, and the appointment of an experienced local team of industry specialists earlier this year, we see ourselves as the bridge and local expert that allows overseas organisations to conveniently, economically and instantaneously access the dynamism and growth possibilities that typically signify Singapore.”

Requests for projectbased sales & marketing activities by tourism entities have also peaked, as the international tourism industry prepares to descend on Singapore for the upcoming ITB Asia Travel Exhibition to be held during October 23 – 25, 2013.

Singapore’s outbound travel market increased by 4.1 per cent in 2012, resulting in a total of 8.05 million overseas trips that is estimated to be worth a total of USD$21.1 billion.

Michael Gaebler, Chairman & CEO, AVIAREPS Group said, “AVIAREPS has long seen Singapore as a strategic, growing and quality outbound travel market that many tourism, hospitality and aviation entities may

Seventy per cent of the population is estimated to travel overseas at least once each year, with 79 per cent of that travel attributed to leisure travel and holidays. It is estimated that each Singaporean spends on average USD$190 per night when travelling overseas.

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GUEST COLUMN

TRAVTALK OCTOBER, 2013

EDITORIAL ITB: Success mantra in unsure times

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line-up of events comprising 3,850 minutes of ‘high powered’ content over 20 sessions is what ITB Asia 2013 promises to deliver to delegates at the 6th instalment of the annual travel industry trade show. As a global melting pot for the travel industry, ITB Asia has has prepared to expose delegates attending this year’s conference to a variety of tailored sessions that will address the latest developments, challenges and trends in travel.

Scheduled to be held from October 2325 in Singapore, this uncertain time of political strife at a global stage, the first day of ITB Asia kicks off with a session on ‘Crisis Management’. The organisers have also included a wide range of ‘how-to’ sessions on adapting and thriving in this ever-changing environment.

The event will set the ball rolling in the right direction with a keynote address on how travel companies can innovate, ‘future-proof’ their strategies and continuously adapt to flourish, even in uncertain times. Two high-level sessions on human capital development and facilitating visitor economy will be highlights of Pacific Asia Travel Association’s (PATA’s) contribution to this year’s programme. The event’s organisers had announced a ‘Call for Audience & Papers’ in the run-up to the October-end event. This innovative tool reflecting ITB Asia’s efforts to “listen” to partners will go a long way in its quest of coming up with an insightful and practical conference programme at ITB Asia 2013.

Scripting success stories Five Continents Hotels & Resorts is a hotel management company with a mission to develop and operate unique hotels and resorts in handpicked destinations across the world. Its success mantra comprises turning around each acquired property.

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riven by a vision, therefore, to deliver different solutions within the hospitality industry, ‘Sales & Deals’ were and will remain, the essence that will provide us guaranteed turnover.

It is this unique and decisive factor that has led us to reach thus far, what with stunning new hotel projects soon to be launched in Africa, Asia and Europe.

registered an increase in business by 30 per cent from the time we took over and 45 per cent as compared to last year’s performance.

The Cassells Al Barsha Hotel, which is our latest acquisition, is already very popular for the smiles that guests receive from check-in to check-out. The hotel is unique for housing the first Emirati restaurant in Dubai.

We strongly believe that it is in keeping with our partners in progress, the travel agents are happy with consistent growth results Elia Timani Managing Director, Five Continents Hotels and Resorts Today, our hotels, which are located at some of the world’s stunning destinations, stand out by their high quality of service and the classy comfort that we provide our guests.

What makes Five Continents Hotels & Resorts different from others is that it’s not merely the management of the hotel but also about developing the destination. We took over Cassells Al Barsha Hotel in April 2013.

In the beginning, we had many challenges before us – to establish our presence in the market, while honouring our contract with the management. But our confidence in the tour operators stood us in good stead. We did take a different approach, and in the end, as of date, we

As for our future plans, we have many projects in the pipeline, as I have stated in Africa, Asia and Europe. Thus far, we have built a strong presence in Europe. Our office in Berlin looks after business from Austria and Germany, an office in Zurich oversees the business from Switzerland, and the Plymouth office in the UK looks after the business from the UK and Ireland markets.

We have plans to expand in Germany, Zurich and the UK. Most of our business does come from Europe.

This is the continent where we have a grip on the market and our partnership with tour operators in the continent ensures an increasing flow of business. Around 70 per cent of our business is garnered

A first-ever initiative by ITB Asia, adopting an industry-driven approach by allowing the upcoming trade show’s audience comprising industry stakeholders, to recommend the topics and speakers during the event’s conference sessions, comes like a breath of fresh air.

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Being communicative and sharing information with our partner travel agents is part of our marketing strategy to achieve good growth rates. To that end, we host orientation programmes for travel agents by way of education and training sessions in addition to follow-ups in these areas. Besides, a whole host of attractive incentives are on offer for performing travel agents. In fact, we are one of those hotel management companies that have invested both much time and resources, including FAM trips and special rates for travel agency and airport staff, besides other people who are part of our industry.

What differentiates us from many others in the hospitality sector is our investments in this area often exceed budgetary allocations.

This is because we strongly believe that it is in keeping our partners in progress, the travel agents happy, that consistent growth results.

the competition in the various markets that we operate in, it’s always a challenge to achieve the right synergy between property owners and those of our working partners who have to constantly measure up to their expectations. In this regard, I must add that ensuring the well-being of our extremely professional staff is a top priority for the company.

Success, I believe, can only be achieved when one is prepared to face challenges head on, which we as a company are happy to do so.

Our marketing strategy is based on a well-balanced vision of the Asian market, which we consider a veritable MICE business beehive and the European Union being a burgeoning leisure market.

This strategy, we assert, is and what will continue to be as Five Continents Hotels & Resorts moves forward the bedrock of our success.

As far as other markets go, besides Europe, we already have plans in place to attract business from the GCC markets on a very big scale. These include putting a lot of work and necessary follow-up into the various databases that relate to our industry in the region.

Our strategy for growth lays great stress on communicating our vision and giving confidence to both property owners and our partners in the business. Besides tackling

Elia Timani Managing Director Five Continents Hotels and Resorts

New 5-star property for Sofitel Representatives of Al Tamiuz Hotels & Resorts, the hospitality business unit of a Saudi company has appointed Sofitel Hotels, the luxury brand of French Hotel Group Accor, to be manager of their 5-star property in Jeddah.

The signing of the management contract took place in the presence of Accor Middle East Management and Robert Gaymer-Jones, Chief Executive Officer, Sofitel worldwide.

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AVIATION

TRAVTALK OCTOBER, 2013

Safi: Raising the bar in the skies Well on the move to expanding its reach to other destinations with the commissioning of two modern Airbus 319 Aircraft, Afghan private carrier, Safi Airways has also enhanced its catering service and cabin crew.

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resently operating two flights a day from Kabul to Dubai, and four flights a week from Kabul to New Delhi on the international route network, along with daily flights from Kabul to Herat on the domestic sector, Safi Airways is all set to launch direct flights between Kabul and Islamabad, starting October 1, 2013. The Airline had more than 10,000 Hajj operations during September.

Operations to Delhi are mainly patronised by Afghanis who fly to India for medical tourism.

With the addition of the two A319’s, Safi Airways’ fleet of

aircraft will comprise A319, A320 & Boeing aircraft.

transport in the region, he added.

their bid to compete with Low Cost Carriers.

Naeem Mahamoor, Manager Marketing, Safi Airways, mentioned, “The A319’s high altitude flight performance, range options, versatility, seat layout flexibility, with the proven wide single-aisle fuselage makes it the ideal choice for Safi Airways and provides an edge over its competition.”

Aiming to take its catering services to a new level, the Airline, which claims to be the only service carrier operating to and from Kabul, is offering both business and economy class passengers the best of local and international cuisines.

“Growth is slow as competition is stiff, what with new operators like Turkish Airlines, Air Arabia and flydubai entering the market.

The Airline’s fleet enhancements and route development for the future, therefore, will be spearheaded with A319s in anticipation of the growing demand for air

Additionally, business class passengers will be welcomed aboard the aircraft with their very own Safi Airways signature drink, along with a selection of appetizers, beverages, local and international cuisines and desserts. The Airline invests

Naeem Mahamoor Manager Marketing Safi Airways

lot in training travel agents and staff. With near 40 to 45 per cent of the Airline’s business coming from travel agents, Safi Airways offers big agents great incentives in

John Travolta mesmerises Dubai Two-time Oscar nominee, two-time Golden Globe winner and Qantas Ambassador-at-Large John Travolta, kicked off his inaugural visit to Dubai by jetting in aboard a Qantas A380 on September 9, 2013. and why all should try Qantas the next time they fly to London or Australia.”

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he actor, Travolta was hosted by the national carrier of Australia during his week-long trip to Dubai.

The Hollywood icon took in some of the Emirate’s most iconic and luxurious destinations, but not before enjoying the luxury of an A380 First Class Suite, en route from London Heathrow to Dubai International Airport.

Speaking on arrival at Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport, Travolta, who first wowed his fans with a stellar performance in Saturday Night Fever, said, “I am honoured to be involved with the Airline’s new services to Dubai, which marked as a pivotal time in the Airline’s history.”

Upon commencing the Spirit of Friendship Tour, Travolta was presented with his 747-400 'wings', after an extensive training with Qantas in Sydney and Boeing in Seattle.

John Travolta with Rohan Garnett, General Manager, Qantas - MENA

Qantas had begun direct daily services on A380 aircraft from both Sydney and Melbourne to Dubai and onwards to London Heathrow on March 31, 2013, with the launch of the Qantas and Emirates partnership.

John Travolta, who became Qantas’ Ambassadorat-Large in June 2002 - when

it joined him to launch the Spirit of Friendship Tour to foster goodwill and encourage people to travel after September 11, added,

“I wanted to tell everyone why Qantas is my favourite Airline,

The tour began on July 1, 2002, with John piloting his Boeing 707, painted in its original 1960s Qantas branding and livery.

Today, John Travolta continues to fly his Boeing 707 and represents the Qantas brand both in Australia and overseas, commented Rohan Garnett, General Manager, Qantas Middle East & North Africa, while speaking on the Airline’s celebrity guest’s arrival in Dubai.

In spite of the major challenges associated with operating out of Afghanistan, that of expensive fuel, twice as much as in the Middle East and besides the unrest, high altitude, harsh terrain, infrastructure

in its nascent stage, the attitude at Safi Airways is one of ‘we dare’,” Mahamoor further stated.

Maintaining uncompromising international safety standards is an unflinching commitment that Safi Airways makes to its customers. The Airline is the first Afghan carrier to operate in compliance with EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) requirements, and also the first Afghan carrier certified as complying with the strict ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) and IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) regulations.

MICE sector in focus Post a complete refurbishment, the Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre hotel received the official 5 star rating from The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) on May 21, 2013.

Focussing largely on the MICE segment, the management and team members believe ‘There is always room for design even in a meeting room’. The property entails more than 909 sq mt of meeting venues, comprising 7 meeting rooms and 2 boardrooms which were fully redesigned.

As of October, there will be a wide choice of areas and amenities for business customers. The dedicated co-meeting space is located on the 2nd floor of the Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre hotel, and will be used exclusively to organise all types of professional and private events. There will be a dedicated team consisting of an Event Manager and IT Solutions Officers, who will take care of the details, thus guaranteeing comfort and connectivity that is conducive to bonding and engagement.

Eyeing Russian tourists Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman, a premier destination for business and leisure travellers, announced its participation in Luxury Leisure Moscow 2013, which was held in Crocus Expo International Exhibition Centre in Moscow, Russia from

September 17 - 20.

Ajman as a destination has witnessed an increase of demand from the CIS market, as compared to 2012. In Ramada Ajman, 66 per cent of the total bookings are from the leisure segment, 80 per cent of which are from guests from the CIS alone.

HOTELS

OCTOBER, 2013

TRAVTALK

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Aiming to ace luxury space A new hotel unveiled The Oberoi, Dubai opened in June 2013 after nearly two years of homework, which included a robust presence at both ATM and WTM carried out by the luxury brand prior to its latest presence in the region. cent, special 10 to 20 per cent reduction offers during Ramadan, which also saw elaborate Iftar events, visitors from the Persian Gulf, group bookings and MICE travellers saw occupancy on the rise.

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here will be no let-up in the push to promote the brand, with the Group making its presence felt at the upcoming ITB Asia in Singapore. This, in addition to offices in Singapore, Germany and France, a big office in India, besides those in the US and the UK.

“The emphasis has always been on quality, not quantity,” asserts Karim Bizid, General Manager, The Oberoi, Dubai, “An obvious reference to the hotel being the brand’s third in the Middle East after its two properties in KSA and Egypt.”

He added, “The Group has always been keen to zero in on the right location to open the right property. So all

Karim Bizid General Manager The Oberoi, Dubai

the time is spent looking out for the right partner, the right location and the right opening time.”

Since its opening in June 2013, the hotel has run a positive average occupancy of mid-45 per cent. Over weekends, UAE nationals from Abu Dhabi and Al Ain raise it up by a couple of percentage points. While the month of May did see a much higher than average 70 per

It was an auspicious first week since its opening with a prestigious Forbes ME event that opened the doors for a successful foray into the events arena.

“With the crème de la crème of the city present on the occasion, the hosting of the event was a fruitful experience. To date, in three months, the hotel has done three major travel traderelated events,” stressed he.

The season determines the type of guest footfall.

During Ramadan, it’s definitely MICE, which is much the same during September and October. Capitalising on Contd. on page 13

Dusit International’s fifth property in the Middle East, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, had a grand opening on September 16. With 37 storeys, the hotel is deemed as a symbol of commitment towards developing the region.

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Director and CEO, Dusit International.

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ocal dignitaries and VIPs joined Dusit International’s executive team at the gala event, which saw a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony, followed by a tour and sampling of the hotel’s restaurants take place.

Standing at 37 storeys, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is well on its way to achieve landmark status. Blending the best of both the cultures, the hotel’s design exudes Arabian grandeur imbued with touches of Thai warmth.

There are 402 guest rooms

A Perfect Venue The innovative design of the conference centre’s prefunction area, with its glasspanelled Skydome, and state-of-the-art function rooms make the hotel the perfect venue

Chanin Donavanik Managing Director and CEO Dusit International

on offer and 131 deluxe serviced apartments, five worldclass dining outlets and a spacious conference centre that can host up to 2,000 guests. The hotel also boasts the third highest hotel atrium in the world.

“We are proud to present this latest property here in Abu Dhabi, the UAE's centre of industry, culture and commerce,” expressed Chanin Donavanik, Managing

“We had a presence in the Middle East for over a decade and Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is a symbol of our continued commitment to developing in the region.”

The innovative design of the conference centre’s pre-function area, with its glass-panelled Skydome, and the convenience of each state-of-the-art function room make Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi the perfect venue to host a memorable event. From now through December 2013, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi offers a special opening rate of ‘Stay 3, Pay 2’.

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HOTELS

TRAVTALK OCTOBER, 2013

A glimpse of the Orient

Dealing with change

Asiana Hotel Dubai in 2013 has taken off quite magnificently, both in terms of room occupancy and footfall in its food & beverage outlets, a feat that the hotel would like to better as the year progresses.

Mondo Hospitality, besides London, operates a collection of serviced residences and a boutique hotel in Dubai.

To capitalise on a fantastic start to the year, they will offer special dicsounts on the occasion of Eid Al Adha.

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he hotel’s world-class level of luxury facilities and service takes over from there, which ensure that guests keep returning.

Cahal Altman, Marketing & Communication Assistant Manager, Asiana Hotel Dubai, informed, “The hotel has recorded 85 per cent room occupancy since the beginning of 2013 and is going to be at nearly full room occupancy during the upcoming Eid Al Adha, with even its restaurants registering group bookings for the festive season.”

Altman is quick to acknowledge the role of travel agents in making the hotel known among its potential customers and especially in generating business when the hotel is not at full occupancy. In 2012, the 136 room-hotel received nearly

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4,000 room nights from travel agents, which in 2013, is expected to be bettered.

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he brand narrates that its hotels for 2013 were booked in 2012 itself and is looking forward to a positive and profitable year ahead.

“The hotel has put into place strategies to increase awareness among potential markets in the Far East, especially China.

Attracting more corporate and online business has been a strategy employed by the hotel to overcome the

“It is important how one approaches challenges, which in Mondo Hospitality’s case, are dealt with by associating with suppliers who can grow with the group and help achieve its evolving priorities,” asserted Singhal.

“One of its managed properties, the

Cahal Altman

It was represented at the Chinese Visitor Summit in Abu Dhabi, besides dispatching its Chinese Sales Manager on a number of business trips to China. The results have been quite encouraging,” he added.

“Besides, the hotel has been successful in employing FAM trips to give a boost to its Russian market.”

ket, planning ahead, selection of the right systems, besides dealing with change.

Marketing & Communication Assistant Manager, Asiana Hotel Dubai

hurdle of getting good rates from the group bookings segment, and the fact that it is competing with top international brands, an approach that is paying rich dividends.

The hotel, sensing the opportunity in the other emirates and GCC countries, would over the next few years see it opening up in those markets as well. The hotel is close to the Dubai International Airport.

Suha City Hotel, a boutique hotel in Deira, Dubai has particularly done well, posting significant growth in revenues vis-à-vis 2012,” informed Deepak Singhal, Director of Sales, Mondo Hospitality, who adds that the hotel has raced away to a flier in 2013. “Travel agents play an important role in generating revenue for Mondo Hospitality, who are rewarded with commissions,

Deepak Singhal Director of Sales Mondo Hospitality

special rates and discounts,” added Singhal.

The Group’s marketing strategy, which includes pricing and promotion, through advertising, personal selling, direct marketing, events, Internet marketing has proved to be successful.

In the highly competitive hospitality sphere, the group acknowledges that challenges are plenty. They like keeping up with the mar-

Consistent supplier quality and reliability is considered more important than simply going in for the cheapest offer. Also, the group places great emphasis on training and developing its employees, besides keeping abreast with the latest technologies in order to stay ahead of the competition.

While Mondo Hospitality may not have any immediate expansion plans, focussing on consolidation of the group’s financial health is a top priority.

A new Dream in Dubai Following the successful launch of its New York flagship property, the brand announced its next international offering, Dream Dubai, in one of the Emirate city’s most prestigious locations – the Waterfront Marina District.

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ant Singh Chatwal, Chairman, Hampshire Hotels will bring his lifestyle branded hotel and residences to life in Dubai’s Marina District after a deal to that effect was recently inked with

retail outlets and a nightclub occupying the 101st floor.

There will be two pools and two spas - one for each hotel and the residences, and men’s and ladies’ gymnasiums with squash courts make up the other recreational facilities.

The launch of Dream in Dubai would mark the first true lifestyle hotel opening for the Emirates Sant Singh Chatwal Chairman, Hampshire Hotels Abu Ali Malik Shroff Chairman of Sheffield Holding Ltd. The deal will make Dream Dubai the world’s tallest hotel development, taking occupancy in the project known as Marina 101.

Dream Dubai Marina will be a 101-storey property housing 300 guest rooms and 420 branded serviced apartments.

Dream Dubai Marina will also feature six restaurants and lounges, multiple

What will make the upcoming Dream hotel opening in Dubai stand out from the competition is the progressive nature of the brand and its forward-thinking eye for design and programming, according to Chatwal.

He added that the launch of Dream in Dubai would mark the first true lifestyle hotel opening for the Emirates and will be accompanied by other openings in the Dream pipeline, including

projects in Los Angeles, Dallas and West Palm Beach in the US, besides South Goa and Mumbai in India.

The Marina 101 development is one of the largest super towers in the district and will stand as the tallest hotel tower in the world. The hotel is slated to open in the fourth quarter in 2014.

The property will be managed by Sant Singh Chatwal’s Hampshire Hotels Management, LLC in association with Wyndham Hotel Group who are global expansion partners for the Dream brand, courtesy a joint venture deal which the two entities struck in early 2011.

World’s Tallest The Marina 101 development is one of the largest super towers in the district and will stand as the tallest hotel tower in the world The hotel, Dream Dubai is slated to open in the fourth quarter in 2014

FAMILY ALBUM

OCTOBER, 2013

TRAVTALK

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Modernisation takes wings at Safi Safi Airways, the airline of Afghanistan, takes delivery of two Modern Airbus 319-200 aircraft. Pierfranco Prato, CEO, Safi Airways stated at the gala inauguration ceremony held at Safi Land Mark Hotel in Kabul on September 3 and 4. With the addition of the two A319's, Safi Airways aircraft fleet comprises A319, A320 & Boeing aircraft. Safi Airways has also enhanced its catering service and cabin crew.

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TECHNOLOGY

TRAVTALK OCTOBER, 2013

Developing advanced solutions Moulding future agents It’s the growing demand from increasingly technology savvy consumers that has paved the way for efficient online business systems, a trend clearly reflected in the travel and tourism sector across the MENA region.

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peaking on the opening day of the inaugural ecommerce summit recently hosted by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) in Dubai, Thierry Dongier, Regional Sales Director - Key Accounts, Middle East and North Africa, Amadeus stressed on e-commerce having a critical role in the growth of the travel & tourism sector.

Inaugurated by Mohammed Nasser Al Ghanim, Director-General, TRA, the e-commerce summit featured experts from the ecommerce landscape including George Held, Vice PresidentCommerce, Etisalat Group, Omar Sadodi, Managing Director, Payfort, and Ronaldo Mouchawar, CEO, Souq.com.

The summit focussed on issues like e-commerce

strategies, e-commerce security, market regulations, eliminating barriers of e-commerce, boosting consumer confidence and consumer protection. The sessions also highlighted the need to generate out-of-the-box technological solutions to boost the UAE’s digital economy.

At a session titled ‘Travel Industry: Leading Innovation on e-Commerce’, Dongier, said,

“The UAE’s highly competitive e-commerce sector inspires technology leaders like Amadeus to develop advanced solutions that enable online players to seize the right opportunities and stay ahead of the competition.” The summit’s goal is to serve as a great

A three-year exclusive partnership agreement was signed between Sabre Travel Network Middle East and University of Jordan. Sabre-certified courses, software and training support will be provided to the University.

He further added, “With our comprehensive and rewarding travel industry training programmes that leverage the latest technology, University of Jordan's students will have a leg up when they enter competitive travel industry."

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Thierry Dongier Regional Sales Director-Key Accounts, Middle East and North Africa Amadeus

platform, facilitating the region’s leading e-commerce players to meet and exchange knowledge and ideas for new solutions.

According to global financial results for the year ending December 31, 2012, Amadeus invested over €414 million in research and development (R&D). It’s nearly 20 per cent higher than in 2011.

he recently held signing ceremony was attended

by Dr. Shtaywy S. Abdalla, Vice President Administrative and Finance Affairs and Dr. Zaid Alrawadieh, Head of Tourism Guidance and Development from the University and Darren Wickham, Managing Director and Wael Abu Arqoub, Jordan Country Manager at Sabre.

To make the most of the offering to the customers, travel agencies across the Middle East use Sabre's wide product range as tools. The University students will now be able to access such knowledge and expertise.

Darren Wickham, Managing Director, Sabre Travel Network Middle East informed, "Travel is a dynamic and exciting industry to be in, and the technology used

Darren Wickham Managing Director Sabre Travel Network Middle East

by the industry is constantly evolving. As a leading provider of travel technology solutions,

Sabre is committed to invest in the development of local Jordanian talent by partnering with the top travel industry training schools.”

The Sabre courses will be available to students in the Amman and Aqaba campuses. Sabre Travel Network, a Sabre Holdings Company is the provider of high performance travel solutions. Combining its unique expertise and leading technology, it helps power the business performance of the travel industry across the world.

Sabre Course The Sabre courses will be available to students in the Amman and Aqaba campuses

Cementing ties in Tanzania Recently Karibu, one among Tanzania’s premier travel companies, signed a multi-year renewal contract with Travelport, as a measure of the confidence it enjoys as one of its prominent clients in East Africa.

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successful relationship spanning over 15 years with Waljis Travel Bureau. We look forward to support our customer’s continued growth and success under the new Karibu brand.”

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he two entities, Travelport, a leading distribution services and e-commerce provider for the global travel industry and Karibu announced the continuation of their successful 15-year business ties with the inking of the agreement.

Travelport had consistently provided Karibu with extraordinary products & services over the past 15 years. As part of its celebrations commemorating 50 years of serving the travelling public, the Travel Bureau had recently announced the launch of a rebranded Waljis Travel Bureau and Karibu Holidays under their flagship brand – Karibu.

As part of the new deal, Travelport will continue to provide Karibu with its expertise and top-of-therange technology products and solutions.

It includes Smartpoint, Travelport Mobile Agent, Agentivity and eTravel Back office system.

Mark Meehan Managing Director for Africa Travelport

The new contract reinforces Travelport’s ongoing investments in East Africa as a strategic priority region Mark Meehan, Managing Director for Africa, Travelport stressed, “The company had enjoyed a very

“The new contract reinforces Travelport’s ongoing investments in East Africa as a strategic priority region.

What was pertinent to note was Travelport shared Karibu’s ambition of providing the best possible travel content and technology to customers across East Africa and beyond.” According to Karibu, Travelport’s technology and expertise would continue to support them in delivering the best possible service to their customers, ensured to remain at the cutting edge of the industry.

New Deal As part of the new deal, Travelport will continue to provide Karibu with its expertise and top-of-therange technology products and solutions

FAMILY ALBUM

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Special movie screening for ME agents Air Astana showed its appreciation to its travel agents partners by throwing an exclusive Dubai Mall movie screening of Two Guns, the action movie of Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. The event was well attended by representatives from dnata, Kanoo Travel, Airlink International, Al Rais, Trident Travel/Griffin Travel, Otta Travel, SNTTA Travel, Satguru Travel, ANTA Travel, Akbar Travel, Al Tayer Travel, Jerry Varghese, Advance Travel, Al Arif And Son, Alpha Holidays Tours&Travel, Deira Travel, Travco Travel, Sharaf Travel, Neptune Tours & Travel, Pearl of Arabia and Dadabhai Travel among others.

Photo Credit: Sharfy Daligdigan

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HIGHLIGHTS

TRAVTALK OCTOBER, 2013

Yas wows Chinese agents Focussing on ME market Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld jointly hosted an opening event, on September 1, kicking off the Chinese Visitor Summit 2013. With this, the tourism authority is keenly committed to boost Chinese presence.

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ttracted primarily by UAE’s tax-free shopping opportunities, ease of access and entry, today the Chinese traveller has varied interests.

Trumping its second year, the Chinese Visitor Summit 2013 is strongly backed by Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA), exposing the Chinese traveller to the most sought-after travel destination Abu Dhabi has to offer.

Consisting of a delegation of 75 Chinese, the summit was attended by outbound tourism bookers, Chinese media, CEOs and sports events producers from wholesale, retail, leisure, golf, adventure and FIT operators.

Roofed under the largest existing Ferrari Logo, the delegates from China were introduced to the world’s largest indoor and first Ferrari branded theme park, among others.

The delegates had experienced and shared a wider Chinese travel audience, Abu Dhabi’s greatest attractions including Yas Island, the

President, Destination Management Yas Island.

“With a schedule of events planned for the Chinese delegation, guests visiting Yas

Guests visiting Yas Island have experienced a brave ride on the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Foreseeing an unprecedented thrust for tourism in the Middle East, Wego, the leading travel metasearch site in the Asia Pacific and Middle East, moved into a dedicated office and appointed a director in Dubai.

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ccording to Wego, the speed at tourism in general and airfare search volumes among travellers in particular world over, has been exceeding expectations

Karim El Guanaini Vice President, Destination Management Yas Island region’s prime leisure and business destination.

“Boasting the only Emirati themed waterpark, Yas Waterworld, sensational sea views on our world renowned golf course, Yas Links, the languid leisure of Yas Beach and the highly anticipated Yas Mall, needless to say we tick a lot of the boxes!” says Karim El Guanaini, Vice

Island have experienced a brave ride on the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, followed by a bird’s eye view as they soar above Yas Island on a Seawings plane,” he added.

With this opportunity, the Chinese travel partners got a chance to see for themselves what’s in store for their clientele.

Mohammed Ibrahim Masri Managing Director - MENA Wego

and more so in the Middle East and Asia.

Commitment to aviation excellence continues to be stressed across the MENA

tourism industry. Four MENA airlines were in the 2013 Skytrax World Top 10 Airlines, with Emirates and Qatar Airways at one and two respectively, Etihad Airways at seven and Turkish Airlines at nine.

“It can be gauged from the considerable resources being dedicated to the industry in the region that tourism here is indeed being taken very seriously,” expressed Mohammed Ibrahim Masri, Managing Director - MENA, Wego, adding that travel operators are investing heavily to ensure the region is at the forefront of world tourism.

“Even both travellers and the travel industry recognise the value, reach and simplicity of what Wego provides. The company remains committed to investment in the MENA and to proactively build the brand in the region as in all of its other markets,” added Masri.

Most recently, connecting with the strength of its Asian network presence and coinciding with Egypt Air’s announcement of a four time weekly Cairo to Jakarta service, (via Kuala Lumpur), Wego signed a full content agreement with the Airline.

Marking an ever-growing region for Wego, many major airline accounts are currently under negotiation.

The company believes the youthful nature of new, extremely tech savvy MENA airlines is also contributing to its accelerated growth.

AVIATION

Oman bowls over movie moguls The latest Bollywood film, ‘Once Upon A Time in Mumbai Again’ released in cinemas worldwide, has showcased the mesmerising beauty of the Sultanate of Oman. With the national carrier, Oman Air’s assistance, the first part of the shooting started in September last year.

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his was the first time a major Indian production was being shot in the Sultanate. Portions of the film were shot at the Qantab Beach, Qurum Corniche,

“Oman Air is committed to promote the Sultanate of Oman within international markets and encourage visitors from overseas, discover its rich culture, ancient history and breath-taking landscapes. As part of this mis-

As Oman Air flies to ten destinations in India, this was positively a good opportunity to showcase the Sultanate’s natural beauty and historic towns to the potential visitors Usama Karim Al Haremi Senior Manger Corporate Communications and Media, Oman Air

Central Business District and The Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa. Beyond the area in and around its capital, Muscat, most of the filming took place.

sion, we work with various media personalities to reach large audiences with Oman’s mindblowing attractions.

Supporting the production of this Indian movie, is one of

them, hence we provided air travel and logistical back-up for the movie’s 130-strong cast and crew, partially filmed in Oman,” explained Usama Karim Al Haremi, Senior Manger Corporate Communications and Media, Oman Air. “As Oman Air flies to ten destinations in India, this was positively a good opportunity to showcase the Sultanate’s natural beauty and historic towns to the potential visitors,” he added.

The launch of movies which showcase Oman to international audiences provides great opportunities for travel agents, he added.

“Once the destination has been shown to audiences, many will be encouraged to visit Oman, while others will respond to publicity which reminds them of Oman’s attractions, that refers to the

film. Opportunities to promote the film, in association with the producers or exhibitors, through competitions published or broadcast in the media may also arise, bringing participating travel agents’ brands to a wider audience,” Al Haremi further added.

According to the Omani tourism ministry, the Sultanate has 3,000 hotel rooms due for completion by the end of 2014.

Hotel room capacity in Oman was forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3 per cent over the period 2011-2016.

With Oman’s dramatic natural environment and reliable weather being advantageous, Oman Air is currently pursuing opportunities with a number of other producers as well.

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Emphasising on quality over quantity Contd. from page 7

the build-up to Dubai’s Expo 2020 bid, the strategy is to target all market segments.

“The hotel has a number of FAM trips on offer for travel agents, which have been very successful in showcasing the hotel, Dubai and all its other attractions and activities, who adds that the hotel sees challenges not as challenges but opportunities,” Bizid further informed.

MICE, though, has been a very vital segment for The Oberoi, Dubai. With backup support from DTCM in this area, the hotel has been get-

ting a lot of enquiries.

However, these times, there is no more the case of the old-fashioned marketing strategy eyeing either the corporate or the leisure segments. The difference between the two has gotten so thin, with visitors nowadays combining business with leisure.

Region-wise, European visitors lead, followed by those from North America, a big bulk from the new markets of South America and Asia. The CIS market is still in a nascent stage, but nearly 8 per cent of visitor traffic is from India.

Surge in traffic at airport Traffic at the world's second busiest international airport surged 23.8 per cent in August making it the busiest month in terms of passenger numbers in Dubai International's history, according to traffic report issued by airport operator Dubai Airports. According to the report, the monthly pas-

senger traffic at Dubai International reached 5,999,375 in August, a yearon-year increase of 23.8 per cent compared to 4,847,152 in the corresponding month in 2012. The surge is the result of a strong growth in almost all markets and the effect of Ramadan and Eid travel, which boosts traffic.

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TRAVTALK OCTOBER, 2013

MOVEMENTS

Accor Paris

Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Hotel Dubai

Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa UAE

Sébastien Bazin has been appointed the Chairman and CEO of Accor and will see to all the markets. Prior to this appointment, he was at the Colony Capital, which he had been heading since 1997. He began his career in the finance sector in 1985. In France in 1990, he was appointed as Director of the investment bank Hottinger Rivaud Finances and then, in 1992, chose to devote himself to the hotel sector by becoming CEO of Immobilière Hôtelière company, specialised in high-end hotel developments.

Laurent Chaudet has been appointed as the new General Manager of Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Hotel. Following the successful opening of the Pullman Mall of the Emirates Hotel, Chaudet was asked

by Majid Al Futtaim Hospitality to take this current post. In his new role, Chaudet's responsibility includes taking care of the unique meeting facilities, repositioning some of the Food & Beverage venues, and see to the recruitment of key executives to name a few.

Ian R. Phillips joins the Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa as the new and first General Manager. Phillips brings a wealth of experience to the hotel from over 15 years within the industry, including senior roles at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Vittaveli Island Resort & Spa in Maldives, and most recently the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales. A graduate of the prestigious Cornell University General Managers Program, Phillips is well known for his high energy and professional approach.

FRHI Dubai

Rosewood Corniche Saudi Arabia

Royal Rose Hotel Abu Dhabi

Sami Nasser is appointed the new Senior Vice President,

Sherif El Mansoury has been appointed as the new Director of Sales & Marketing of Rosewood Corniche in Jeddah. He joined Rosewood Corniche from Mosaic Palais Aziza & Spa Hotel in Marrakesh, Morocco where he was the Director of Sales & Marketing. Prior to joining Rosewood Corniche, El Mansoury worked at Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay, where he was Director of Sales until 2010. He served as Associate Director of Sales at the famous Fairmont Nile City Hotel in Cairo, before being promoted.

Michael Kappes has been appointed as the Director of Business Development of the soon-to-open Royal Rose, the first 5-star property owned by the Bin Ham Group and managed by the City Seasons Group of Hotels. Kappes grew up in Germany where he started his hotel career as an apprentice at the Park Hotel Bremen. He brings over 35 years of experience, working with popular hotel brands and covering a range of sectors, including sales & marketing, front office management and reservations.

Four Seasons Hotel Amman Jordan

Etihad Airways Seychelles

Concorde by Mourouj Fujairah Dubai

Yasmin Sati is the new Director of Public Relations of the Four Seasons Hotel Amman. Prior to joining the team at Four Seasons, Sati worked at a reputable PR agency for seven years, boasting a wide range of experience with corporations and industries, and now this is her first venture into the hotel and hospitality industry. She brings with her a vast background in the field of public relations and journalism.

Salem Al Mesmari has been appointed the new Airport

Soma Ali is the new Senior Sales Manager of Concorde by Mourouj Fujairah. Ali has over nine years of sales experience and has previously worked in Holiday Inn Sharjah and Rotana Hotel and Resort Sharjah before joining Concorde. Her expertise includes setting sales strategies, sales force development and establishing business connections. As Senior Sales Manager, Ali will be responsible for developing strong and well-planned sales strategies in order to achieve the sales target.

Operations, Middle East, Africa and India, FRHI. He will be responsible in providing leadership across the Middle East, Africa and India for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Raffles Hotels & Resorts and Swissôtels Hotels. In this new role, he will also be instrumental in developing strong relationships with key partners and owners in these regions. He has over 25 years of experience to his new role, having held several roles within numerous international brands.

Manager in the Republic of the Seychelles for Etihad Airways.

Based in Mahé, Al Mesmari is responsible for overseeing the Airline’s operations at Seychelles International Airport and the smooth operation of its three timesa-week service between the Seychelles and Abu Dhabi. An Emirati national, he joined Etihad Airways in 2008 under the Graduate Management Development Program.

Etihad aids in promoting education in Yemen

A warm welcome Marking the launch of flights between Abu Dhabi and Sana’a, Yemen, Etihad Airways’ volunteering staff distributed 1,000 bags filled with stationery and supplies to school students in Sana’a. The effort was arranged in collaboration with the UAE Red Crescent.

Ayla Hotel has gathered more than 35 partners to welcome new residents in Al Ain and present their products and services. New teachers, faculty members, doctors, students who came from all over the world were invited for the open gathering where everybody got a chance to meet and explore different communities in Al Ain. As a part of Ayla’s corporate social responsibility programme, the event was organised to help them ease the start, offer information and assistance in getting to know their new home. This annual event was free of charge for visitors and all guests had an opportunity to get various kinds of services, products and information.

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TRAVTALK OCTOBER, 2013

Nigeria eyes Indian hospitals

UK tour operators get online training

With the falling Indian rupee, the situation has turned advantageous for those seeking medical treatment in India. Realising the potential of Nigeria, a source market for Medical Tourism, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India held a Medical Tourism Roadshow here.

JA Resorts & Hotels on September 17, 2013 completed the first phase of its new online training programme, which was targetted towards UK tour and travel professionals operating in the UAE leisure market.

Following a number of improvements to its individual properties, the initiative was created to ensure its travel trade partners are up to date. More than 250 UKbased tour operators and

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s per industry feedback, the inflow of patients from overseas to India appears to be going up in the last few months. More so since the Indian rupee has become weaker, the more patients are seeking medical treatment from countries in Africa & the Middle East.

The countries of Africa are emerging as an important Medical Tourism generating source market for India. “The Indian Medical Tourism Destination (lMTD) Show 2013 was held in Abuja, Nigeria on September 23, 2013 and in Lagos on September 24-26, 2013,” informed Vikas Rustagi, Regional Director (West Asia & Africa), India Tourism, Dubai.

“India is well known internationally as a Medical, Wellness & Health destination.

Africa is a big potential market for Medical Tourism to India due to various factors like cost effectiveness, expertise of India in the field of medicine among others,” he further stated. “India is also popular for Wellness Tourism with the ancient practice of healing, yoga and Ayurveda which has been known for more than 5,000 years and now it is time for the world to experience it.”

The Indian government is taking steps to address infrastructure issues that hinder the country's growth in this sector.

The government has removed visa restrictions on tourist visas that required a two-month gap between con-

Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and New Delhi are the fast emerging states as some of India's best medical centres, with several hospitals and specialty clinics coming up in the cities.

Vikas Rustagi Regional Director (West Asia & Africa), India Tourism, Dubai

secutive visits by visitors which is likely to boost medical tourism.

This event has been planned by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India along with the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). The event would be arranged by the India Tourism office, Johannesburg along with the active support of the High Commission of India, Nigeria.

Making use of the same technology and medical knowledge, Indian hospitals and doctors offer health care at a substantially less price.

It is estimated that medical treatment costs in India start at around a tenth of the price of comparable treatment in other developed countries.

As per study by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), it is estimated that the current market size of the Indian medical tourism sector is around ‘7,000-8,000 crore with an annual growth rate of 25-30 per cent.

travel agents completed the programme, as the Dubaibased hotel chain targetted the UK’s outbound leisure market ahead of the European winter season which started on October 1.

Travel trade professionals in Saudi Arabia will be the focus of the next phase of the training programme, followed closely by the rest of the GCC over the coming weeks ahead of the Eid Al Adha holiday and for good reason.

An enchanting cruise Offering mystical journeys, learn more about enchanting cultures and delve deep into far-away lands with MSC Lirica’s Grand Voyage to the United Arab Emirates. It is the perfect escape this winter. On November 5, 2013, MSC Lirica will embark on a 19day/18-night Grand Voyage from Genoa, calling in Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, Valetta, Malta, Piraeus (Athens) and Rhodes,

Greece, Aqaba, Jordan, Salalah and Muscat, Oman, before arriving in Dubai on November 23.

A unique entertainment programme offers art & craft sessions, bridge, burraco and chess lessons, professional belly dancing courses as well as a fascinating lecture programme including The Construction of the Suez Canal and Lawrence of Arabia and the First World War.