ATM Yearbook 2022

ATM yearbook

Tourism for Sustainable Growth

ATM yearbook

2022

TOURISM FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH

DISCLAIMER

Contacts

Publisher: Khaled Algaay

E-mail: kalgaay@gtmediame.com

Editorial Director: Gemma Greenwood

E-mail: gemma@gtmediame.com

HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH AHMED BIN SAEED AL MAKTOUM, CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE, EMIRATES AIRLINE & GROUP

The ATM Yearbook 2021, an official Arabian Travel Market publication, is published by GT Media ME Ltd. The publisher, editor and contributors reserve their rights in regards to copyright of their work. No part of this work covered by the copyright may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means without the written consent of the publisher. No person, organisation or party should rely or on any way act upon any part of the contents of this publication without first obtaining the advice of a fully qualified person.

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Director of Partnerships: Lucie Winter

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editors disclaim any and all liability and responsibility to any person or party, be they a purchaser, reader, advertiser or consumer of this publication or not in regards to the consequences and outcomes of anything done or omitted being in reliance whether partly or solely on the contents of this publication and related products.

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The ATM Yearbook is published by GT Media ME Ltd under licence from Reed Exhibitions Limited. The copyright in the design and content of the ATM Yearbook is owned by GT Media ME Ltd, Reed Exhibitions Limited and its licensors. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, by any means – electronic, photocopying or otherwise –without the prior written permission of Reed Exhibitions Limited.

All Exhibitors’ entries have been supplied by the companies listed in the ATM Yearbook and while great care has been taken to ensure that the details are correct, neither Reed Exhibitions Limited nor the publisher of the ATM Yearbook accepts responsibility for any error, omission or claims made in the ATM Yearbook or at the exhibition.

The Arabian Travel Market logo, ATM and Hosted Buyer are trademarks of Reed Exhibitions Limited. RELX Group, RE symbol and Reed Exhibitions are trademarks of RELX Group plc.

The great comeback

The travel and tourism sector is one of the most resilient, and the pandemic has proven that. Two years on from when the COVID-19 crisis hit, the industry is bouncing back with vigour, soaking up pent-up demand, embracing disruption and forging a new path ahead, having learned a great deal along the way.

The Middle East, and in particular, the Gulf, has stood out for its health and safety standards and measures to mitigate the impact of the crisis. Its agility has paid dividends and as travel reopens globally, the region is in a position of strength. While there are market nuances, airline operations are almost back to prepandemic levels, hotels are not only open, but occupancies are climbing rapidly, and new hotel openings and signings continue at pace, alongside the development of huge projects region-wide.

The latest research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector could deliver $246 billion to the economy this year, just 8.9% behind pre-pandemic levels ($270 billion). Total recovery is predicted as early as next year. There are many factors that have

supported the industry’s resilience, including the steadfast commitment to investing in infrastructure and the continuation of development plans despite the pandemic uncertainty.

In the UAE, Expo 2020 has proven a huge catalyst to fast recovery, with the six-month event delivering more than 24 million visits, just behind the 25 million target, and boosting occupancy rates all over the nation. Dubai’s comeback has been so strong that it led the major global markets in hotel profit recovery for 2021, along with Miami, according to STR’s full-year P&L data.

The upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will no doubt have a similar impact, with ripple effects likely to be felt region wide. There is nothing like the thrill of attending a live event, whether for music, sport, entertainment or to network and conduct business.

Face-to-face interactions reign supreme, and this be more than evident at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2022.

With some 1,500 exhibitors from 112 destinations spanning 10 halls booked into the show at time of press and more than 20,000 visitors anticipated, ATM is a barometer for industry sentiment – one

of confidence and eagerness to get back to normal – the new normal, that is.

The show will provide a vital platform for key industry stakeholders to meet, debate, reconnect and talk business, providing a mid-year boost to a sector bouncing back stronger and ready to face the opportunities and challenges ahead.

The ATM Yearbook 2022 takes a close look at this ever-evolving landscape, featuring the latest sector data, new trends, invaluable insights from experts, as well as interviews with leading industry decision makers.

In line with ATM’s theme, ‘The

2022 is the year of travel’s rebound and Arabian Travel Market is playing a pivotal role in accelerating this trend

Welcome to the future of travel, tourism and hospitality

With travel and tourism professionals from every corner of the planet gathering face-to-face in the UAE, ATM 2022 represents an unparalleled opportunity to learn, discuss and connect, says Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME –Arabian Travel Market

As the international travel sector continues to open up and the global travel industry’s recovery gains increasing momentum, it strikes me that Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2022 couldn’t have arrived at a more opportune time.

Following what has undeniably been a challenging, few years for our industry, ATM 2022 will shine a spotlight on its future, exploring trends, opportunities and catalysts for change along the road to frictionless travel and transportation, and seamless tourism and hospitality experiences.

Every year, ATM offers an opportunity for thousands of industry professionals from every corner of the world to gather face-toface in the UAE, and the 2022 edition is no exception. Held in collaboration with Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the emirate’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), ATM forms an essential part of the UAE’s annual Arabian Travel Week. This year’s show features 1,500 exhibitors across 10 halls, as well as representatives from 112 destinations. With more than 20,000 visitors expected to attend, 2022 looks set to go down as one of the most exciting editions in our 29-year history.

With so much going on, selecting highlights is more difficult than ever, but I have managed to identify a handful of sessions and events that I think make ATM 2022 particularly special.

Our revamped and rebranded ATM Travel Tech event (previously known as Travel Forward) is a must-attend fixture, featuring

seminars, debates and presentations focused on this year’s theme, ‘The future of international travel and tourism’. Industry professionals from around the world will be on hand to provide expert insights and perspectives on where our sector is heading and how we can take advantage.

As a globally recognised tech hub, Dubai offers an unparalleled environment for entrepreneurs and start-ups working to drive advancements within travel, tourism and hospitality. Indeed, the effective development and implementation of technology is essential to our industry’s day-to-day operations as well as its long-term sustainability and success.

Cutting-edge solutions are helping businesses within our sector to streamline their activities while simultaneously improving the customer experience. Yet despite the significant progress that has been made in this respect, we cannot afford to take our foot off the accelerator.

It’s for this reason that ATM 2022 is teaming up with AladdinB2B and Draper Associates. Together, we aim to help incubate a new generation of industry innovation.

The inaugural ATM Draper-Aladdin Start-up Competition is already generating a huge buzz. The initiative will see 15 travel, tourism and hospitality start-ups pitch for up to $500,000 of funding – not to mention the opportunity to compete for an additional $500,000 of investment as part of hit TV show, Meet the Drapers

By capitalising on the Middle East’s status as an innovation hub and taking advantage of

Adventurer by the day, Poet by night.

Part of Sharjah Collection, by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq)

Collaboration will secure travel’s bright future

Julia Simpson, President & CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), emphasises the importance of a coordinated, consistent, and transparent industry approach

The last two years have been incredibly challenging for the global travel and tourism sector. It suffered sizeable losses due to the pandemic, and the different variants that have progressively thwarted the recovery of what was a thriving sector.

The pandemic saw damaging restrictions and chaotic rules that brought havoc to a sector that for the past 10 years, had been outpacing the global economy and contributed almost US$9.2 trillion to the global GDP in 2019.

However, if there is something we have learned during these uncertain times, it is that travel and tourism is an incredibly resilient sector.

After two years of limited international travel, our sector is finally turning the corner.

COVID-19 has showed us the value of cooperation within our industry, and we are now more certain than ever that effective partnerships, including all relevant voices from both the public and the private sector, are crucial for travel and tourism.

Other learnings from this crisis

include the need for digital solutions that embed individual health data, such as vaccination status, and change the way we travel, and highlighted the importance of international leadership for a single, global solution, such as that we have seen with Saudi Arabia.

We are seeing more countries reopen as restrictions are relaxed, allowing travellers to rediscover the world. Although there is pent-up demand, COVID-19 has changed the way people travel, and it is our responsibility to match the consumer’s needs and priorities.

Travellers are remembering all the things they love about exploring the world, while also considering how their presence impacts the destinations they visit.

This has caused a shift in consumer habits and trends in the short- and long-term, and some of them are here to stay.

From domestic travel driving the recovery in the short term and younger generations being the first to travel, to increased demand for longer stays, fee-free cancellations, and enhanced health and hygiene

measures, consumers have made their preferences clear, through bookings, enquiries, and surveys, and the sector needs to meet them.

Digitalisation of the sector and a simplified and interoperable digital solution are vital to fully achieve the recovery of the travel and tourism sector and the global economy.

With smart digital technologies and public-private sector collaboration, the world can achieve the safe and efficient revival of international travel.

The travel and tourism sector needs a coordinated, consistent, and transparent approach to restore safe international travel and regain the trust of travellers.

Through the determination and dedication of this sector, tourism will once again thrive and be a key driver of social economic growth and improve the lives of millions of people around the world.

ABOUT

Julia Simpson is the President and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the global authority on the economic and social contribution of travel and tourism. Prior to joining the WTTC in August 2021, Julia spent 14 years in the aviation sector on the Board of British Airways and Iberia and as Chief of Staff at International Airlines Group. Before joining British Airways, Julia was senior adviser to the UK Prime Minister. She held a number of key positions in the UK government and public sector, including Director at the Home Office and Department for Education and Employment; Assistant Chief Executive at the London Borough of Camden; and head of communications at the Communication Workers Union. Julia is also on the Board of the London Chamber of Commerce.

Julia Simpson WTTC President & CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)

A YEAR IN REVIEW

2021 >

MAY

ATM GOES HYBRID

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) stages its first hybrid show, with the live event, running from May 8 to 11, attracting more than 21,600 attendees from 110 countries and the virtual event (May 17 and 18) registering 30,790 profiles and hosting almost 20,000 face-to-face meetings.

SAUDIA/ETIHAD DEAL

Etihad Airways and SAUDIA launch a new reciprocal loyalty agreement, expanding on the existing codeshare deal between the two airlines. It means members of the Etihad Guest and ALFURSAN programmes can now earn and redeem miles on flights across both carriers’ networks.

ST REGIS OPENS ON THE PALM

The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm opens with 264 rooms and 26 suites, two infinity swimming pools, four restaurants, bars, and lounges, and the signature 24-hour St. Regis Butler Service.

JUNE

SAUDIA’S SEAT+ SERVICE

SAUDIA introduces Seat+, a new service enabling guests to buy one or more adjacent seats on their flights at nominal prices to enjoy increased space and greater comfort in the economy class cabin. It launches on flights to Washington, New York, London, and Frankfurt, with more destinations planned.

NEOM’S CORAL GARDEN

NEOM Company and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) announce a joint project to establish the world's largest coral garden at Shushah Island in the Red Sea area of NEOM, in northwest Saudi Arabia. The project is a tangible demonstration of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to protect 95% of nature within NEOM.

JAZEERA AIRWAYS HEADS TO LHR

Jazeera Airways launches a weekly service (every Friday) between Kuwait and London Heathrow. It’s the first low-cost carrier from the Gulf to operate a direct service from the region to the UK capital. The route is being operated by an Airbus A320neo.

ATM 2021 goes hybrid SAUDIA and Etihad sign a new loyalty deal

St Regis opens on The Palm

NEOM’s Coral garden

SAUDIA introduces a Seat+ service

JULY

EMIRATES RAMPS UP NETWORK

The opening of travel corridors between the UAE and multiple destinations leads to Emirates boosting its network, with the carrier operating more than 280 weekly flights from Dubai across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Indian Ocean from July 1.

IRELAND WELCOMES BACK GULF VISITORS

The Republic of Ireland rolls out the EU’s new Digital COVID Certificate, which is extended to vaccinated visitors from outside of the EU, including the GCC countries. This means all travellers with approved vaccinations can now visit Ireland without the need for a test or quarantining.

QATAR REOPENS TO GLOBAL TRAVELLERS

Qatar reopens its borders to international travellers who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. A new streamlined set of measures designed to make travelling to Qatar as easy as possible, while maintaining the necessary precautions to continue to protect against the spread of COVID-19, are implemented in July 2021.

AUGUST

GULF COUNTRIES MOVED FROM UK RED LIST

The UAE, Qatar and Bahrain are finally moved from the UK’s red list to its amber list. The new rules, which eliminate the need for all travellers from these countries to complete a mandatory 10-day hotel quarantine on arrival to the UK, are announced on August 4 by the UK’s Secretary of State of Transport, Grant Shapps.

HOTEL ROLL OUT IN QATAR

Qatar will open at least 22 new hotels by the end of 2021, bringing 5,646 rooms to market, according to the TOPHOTELPROJECTS construction database. Another 17 projects with 5,677 rooms are planned for completion by the end of 2022, it says, with developers fast-tracking projects in time for the FIFA World Cup, which kicks off in November 2022.

CATHAY PREMIUM ECONOMY TO DUBAI

Hong Kong-based carrier Cathay Pacific rolls out is Premium Economy product on the airline’s A350-900, which serves the Dubai-Hong Kong route.

Emirates ramps up its network

Qatar reopens to visitors

Qatar opens more hotels in the run-up to the World Cup

Gulf countries moved from UK red list

A YEAR IN REVIEW

SEPTEMBER ABU DHABI QUARANTINE LIFT

Abu Dhabi lifts quarantine measures to fully vaccinated tourists and residents travelling from all countries around the world, as well as unvaccinated visitors from ‘Green List’ countries, with no quarantine measures in force.

ENVI LODGES GLAMPING BRAND LAUNCH

New luxury experiential eco-lodge brand and management company, ENVI Lodges, launches in the GCC. The brand taps into growing demand for authentic travel experiences, with the value of the global experiential lodging (glamping) market expected to reach US$3.9 billion by 2027.

EMIRATES' IATA FIRST

Emirates is the first airline to implement the International Air Transport Association's IATA Travel Pass solution on six continents as it rolls out this digital health pass to customers at all its destinations. It follows successful trials in April 2021 on select routes from its Dubai International hub.

OCTOBER

WORLD’S GREATEST SHOW KICKS OFF

Expo 2020 Dubai, an event 10 years in the making, opens to the public on October 1, staged under the theme ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, with subthemes, Mobility, Opportunity and Sustainability aiming to provide solutions to the global challenges we face today. More than 192 countries take part in the event billed as the ‘World’s Greatest Show’.

RED SEA SIGNS NINE HOTELS

The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) signs hotel management agreements with international hotel brands to operate nine resorts in the first phase of The Red Sea Project’s development. Brands on board include EDITION. St Regis, Fairmont, Raffles, SLS, Grand Hyatt, InterContinental, Six Senses and Jumeirah. There are 16 properties planned in total under phase one.

DXB IS 60

Dubai Airports marks the 60th anniversary of the official opening of Dubai International (DXB). Since 1960, DXB has served 1.115 billion passengers travelling on more than 7.47 million flights connecting more than 240 destinations in 95 countries across the globe.

“DXB, which is at the centre of Dubai’s proud aviation history, is testimony to the fact that great things can be achieved through vision, forward-thinking, innovation, collaboration and hard work. Over the next half a century, we will continue to strengthen our role in connecting the world and supporting the social and economic development of Dubai.”

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman, Dubai Airports

Abu Dhabi lifts quarantine measures

EXPO 2020 Dubai opens its doors on October 1, 2021

Red Sea Project signs nine hotels

DXB celebrates its 60th anniversary

NOVEMBER

EK REVEALS PREMIUM ECONOMY ROLL OUT PLAN

Emirates says it will retrofit 105 of its modern widebody aircraft with its Premium Economy product over an 18-month period, starting at the end of 2022. It will see 52 Emirates A380s and 53 Boeing 777s fitted with the new cabin class.

FLYNAS LAUNCHES FIRST INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO ALULA

Saudi carrier flynas launches the first direct international flights into AlUla International Airport on November 19, 2021, with services operating three times weekly from Dubai International and twice weekly from Kuwait International Airport.

SAUDIA UNVEILS MEGA LOUNGE

SAUDIA launches its newest Alfursan lounge in Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport international terminal. The 3,500 sqm lounge can accommodate more than 10,000 guests daily, making it the largest of its kind across the SkyTeam Alliance network worldwide. It also hosts authentic dining experiences and will soon showcase local art and cultural displays.

SEPTEMBER 2021 - DECEMBER 2021

DECEMBER

LAST EK A380 DELIVERY

Emirates receives delivery of its 123rd Airbus A380 superjumbo jet. The aircraft, registered as A6-EVS, is also the final new A380 aircraft to join Emirates’ fleet, marking another milestone in the airline’s 21-year commitment to the programme.

“The A380 is a truly special aircraft in so many ways. For Emirates, it gave us the opportunity to redefine the travel experience, efficiently serve demand at slot-constrained airports, and bolster our network growth. The A380 will remain Emirates’ flagship product for the coming years, and a vital pillar of our network plans.”

Sir Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline

ETIHAD IN GREEN LOYALTY MOVE

Etihad Guest, the loyalty programme of Etihad Airways, introduces sustainability focused initiatives to reward members for making ‘green’ choices when flying and at home, and providing options to reduce their own carbon footprint. Conscious Choices is the first airline loyalty initiative of its kind.

DUBAI'S WORLD ISLANDS WELCOMES ITS FIRST LUXURY RESORT

The five-star Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort opens on Clarence Island within the South American continent of the World Islands development – a remarkable offshore archipelago of 300 man-made isles, just 4km from the coast of Dubai. It features 70 rooms, suites and villas and is available exclusively by boat.

flynas launches first international flights to AlUla Emirates receives its last A380 delivery

A YEAR IN REVIEW

2022

JANUARY

WYNN RESORTS IN MENA FIRST

Wynn Resorts reveals plans to make its debut in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) with a multi-purpose 1,000-room integrated resort on Al Marjan Island. Scheduled to open in 2026, the luxury development marks the largest-of-its-kind foreign direct investment in Ras Al Khaimah and will be the first in the UAE to offer gaming.

QATAR AIRWAYS TURNS 25

Qatar Airways marks its 25th anniversary with several initiatives including a global flights sale and special retro livery painted onto one of its B777 aircraft. The airline started operations in early 1994 but considers 2022 to be its 25th birthday as the carrier was relaunched in 1997 under the mandate of His Highness The Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

ATM DATE CHANGE

ATM announces a date change for its 2022 event to fall in line with the UAE’s new Monday-Friday working week, launched on January 1, 2022. The revised dates – Monday May 9 to Thursday May 12 – also complement business activity in international markets, most of which run from Monday to Friday.

FEBRUARY

DXB STILL WORLD'S BUSIEST AIRPORT

Dubai International airport (DXB) retains its title as the world’s busiest airport in terms of international passenger numbers for the eighth consecutive year. The airport saw 29.1 million passengers in 2021, a yearon-year growth of 12.7%, exceeding forecasts by more than half a million passengers. 2022 traffic could reach 55.1 million says Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths.

DUBAI LEADS HOTEL RECOVERY

Dubai and Miami led the major global markets in hotel profit recovery for 2021, according to STR's full-year P&L data. Miami’s gross operating profit per available room beat pre-pandemic 2019 levels by 14 percentage points, while Dubai achieved 95% of its 2019 comparable level.

INTRODUCING THE MUSEUM OF THE FUTURE

Dubai opens the architecturally stunning Museum of the Future (MOTF) – a 77-metre-high seven-storey metallic structure featuring displays and attractions ranging from a digital recreation of a tropical rainforest to an exhibit revealing what life could be like inside a huge space station in 2071. UAE Prime Minister and Vice President and Dubai Ruler, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, describes the museum as “the most beautiful building on Earth”.

“The museum’s exhibitions will fuel the passion of present and future generations, and spark their intellectual curiosity for science, technology and the knowledge that will help humanity to thrive and prosper in the decades ahead.”

His Excellency Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, the UAE’s Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the Museum of the Future (MOTF)

Wynn Resorts will open a 1,000-room property in RAK Dubai's architecturally stunning Museum of the Future opens in February

DTCM Beach

MARCH

EXPO 2020 CLOSES ITS DOORS

After running for 182 days non-stop, EXPO 2020

Dubai, the largest event to ever be staged in the Arab world, closes its doors. The Expo site will now evolve into District 2020, a smart and sustainable city, with 80% of Expo’s build environment repurposed into an integrated mixed-use community.

CIEL IS HALF-WAY THERE

Construction of the world’s tallest hotel tower, Ciel in Dubai Marina, reaches its half-way point, with work on the megastructure continuing beyond its 52nd floor.The property, developed by The First Group, designed by award-winning architectural firm NORR, and being built by China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), will be 365 metres tall when completed in Q4 2023.

UBER IN UAE EMISSION PLEDGE

Uber sets a target of one in four trips requested via the Uber app to be emission-free by 2030 in the UAE. Uber EMEA Head Anabel Diaz says the UAE’s modern infrastructure and ambitious goals around renewable energy, specifically the Net Zero Strategy and Energy Strategy 2050, make it “the ideal candidate and partner in achieving our sustainability goals in this region”.

APRIL

AIN DUBAI STOPS TURNING

Ain Dubai, world’s tallest observation wheel, is closed throughout Eid Al Fitr in April to allow for “enhancements”. The Bluewaters Island attraction, which opened in October last year and stands at more than 250 metres tall – about twice the height of the London Eye – is undergoing improvements to “introduce new and exciting offerings”.

NEXT STOP OSAKA FOR EXPO

As EXPO 2020 Dubai closes its doors after welcoming 24 million visits, Japan gears up to host the next edition of the global event. Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai, Japan, will take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025, under the banner of Designing Future Society for Our Lives, aiming to be a laboratory for future society and a place where the world’s knowledge will be brought together and shared to help resolve global issues.

SILVER WHISPER HEADS TO SAUDI

Cruise Saudi reveals it will welcome Silver Whisper to KSA waters, the second ship operated by luxury cruise line Silversea after Silver Spirit took part in a trial summer season in 2020. Silver Whisper will be the fourth ship to sail the Red Sea as part of its World Cruise 2022, Tale of Tales.

MAY

ATM 2022 LOOKS TO THE FUTURE

Arabian Travel Market 2022 takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre from May 9 to 12, staged under the theme ‘The future of international travel and tourism’. New features for 2022 include ATM Travel Tech, with a dedicated tech stage hosting seminars, debates and presentations.

QATAR WORLD CUP PREP UNDERWAY

Qatar’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on November 21, ramp up, with new infrastructure and hotels nearing completion. The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, which runs until December 18, will mark the first time the world’s biggest football tournament will be hosted in the Middle East.

DXB CLOSES RUNWAY FOR 45 DAYS

Dubai Airports closes Dubai International’s (DXB) northern runway for a 45-day period between May 9 and June 22, 2022, to carry out complete refurbishment that will ensure “continued safety and efficient operations”. While regular runway maintenance is scheduled on a weekly basis, more extensive upgrades such as the one planned require a complete closure of the runway. The last time this level of work was carried out on the northern runway was in 2014, while the southern runway underwent similar improvements in 2019.

Construction of Ciel reaches its half-way point

Ain Dubai stops turning temporarily

DXB closes its northern runway for 45 days

2022: the year of recovery

Scott Livermore, Chief Economist, Oxford Economics, outlines the key socio-economic and geopolitical factors impacting travel and tourism demand now, and in the months ahead

2022 will still be a year of recovery. Consumer-led growth will support travel recovery through the spending of savings accumulated during the pandemic. However, global recovery from the pandemic will be deferred due to rising inflationary pressures and the squeeze on household budgets. Persistent supply-chain shortages will be exacerbated by the unfolding events in Ukraine.

The previously anticipated 2022 economic rebound from Omicron-related impacts is now under threat following the Russian-Ukraine crisis.

The sanctions imposed upon Russia are intensifying rising commodity prices and further squeezing disposable incomes, as well as adding to travel costs. We expect oil prices to remain above $100pb for much of 2022, to peak in Q2, and to fall back later in the year.

Major international events will help to drive a more rapid recovery in the Middle East this year, including Dubai’s successful staging of Expo 2020 and the forthcoming FIFA 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Expo visitors reached 22.9 million in its closing week, hitting the target range and demonstrating ongoing demand for large-scale events.

Higher interest rates will also increase costs within the GCC countries due to dollar currency pegs, with near-term impacts being modest but felt more strongly into 2023. However, the rising oil price should provide some offset, with S&P upgrading Saudi Arabia’s outlook from stable to positive for this reason. Domestic and intra-regional travel demand will remain important and be key

growth drivers for regional destinations in the near-term.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has shifted the focus from COVID-19 for many destinations, though both pose significant downside risks.

Although the immediate impacts of the conflict are strongly focused on Eastern Europe in our latest forecast, some effects into the mid-term will be widely felt.

Rising commodity prices will pass through to air fares as rising debt servicing requirements mean carriers cannot easily absorb additional costs. Higher fares and squeezed incomes will encourage travellers to seek lower cost options. A wider or longer-lasting conflict remains a key risk to recovery, along with the possibility of renewed restrictions to combat any further covid outbreaks or new variants.

Domestic and short-haul destinations are to remain an elevated share of travel in the short-term, due to the destinations perceived to be safer and involving lower travel costs. Domestic travel will continue to lead international travel in the short-term and is expected to surpass 2019 levels in 2022, whereas international arrivals are expected to regain 2019 levels by 2025.

Business travel is lagging leisure travel, with international business travel spending being 67% lower than 2019 in 2021. The Middle East’s recovery to 2019 levels for international travel is expected in 2024.

Alongside leisure and business travel, religious pilgrimages will once again boost tourism for Saudi Arabia, with Makkah set to receive 4.5mn international arrivals

ABOUT

Scott Livermore is the Chief Economist of Oxford Economics Middle East, as well as Managing Director of Consultancy in the Middle East and Asia. Scott leads many of the major projects in the GCC and Asia which have recently included capacity building, macroeconomic modelling, and policy impact assessment engagements for government institutions in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Oman, and IFRS 9 and Stress Testing engagements in Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong. Scott represents the Tourism Economics team in the Middle East.

and $1.3bn international spend in 2022. Travellers will focus more on sustainable travel experiences. Sustainable travel trends were emerging pre-pandemic, with travellers increasingly demanding sustainable options and an emerging trend of people taking fewer, but longer, international leisure trips to minimise carbon footprint. Over the longer-run, internalising environmental damage in the cost of travel will lead to rising travel costs. Sustainable destinations are also crucial. Saudi Arabia is paving the way with $500bn investment into the Neom project, which aims to be a carbon-free, eco-city.

At the heart of life

At Rotana, we believe time well spent, is a life well lived. This enduring thought is at the heart of every experience we promise when you stay with us.

Our distinct collection of brands include Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana, Centro Hotels, Resorts and Hotel Apartments by Rotana, Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts and The Residences by Rotana.

Transform moments into memorable experiences as we present a selection of diverse destinations, ideal for every journey.

To find out more, visit rotana.com Treasured time. Our promise to you.

GLOBAL TOURISM 2021-2022

The Star Attraction

New and upcoming projects throwing the spotlight on the Gulf’s tourism credentials

Museum of the Future, Dubai

Dubai's Museum of the Future (MOTF) opened its doors on February 25 in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Almost a decade in the making, the MOTF is one of the region’s most impressive architectural achievements and latest tourism icons. Housing an array of interactive exhibitions, the museum also features a “living” laboratory designed to foster a spirit of collaborative innovation among the Arab world’s leading scientists, encouraging them to tackle future challenges and spur a new era of scientific discovery.

Al Qana National Aquarium, Abu Dhabi

Spanning an area of more than 7,000 sqm, the UAE’s new national aquarium is the largest in the Middle East. The facility, which is staffed by a team of 80 international marine scientists, spans 10 major thematic zones and features 330 unique marine species and 46,000 different animals. The aquarium prides itself on its approach to sustainability, with all animals it houses ethically sourced and its extensive presentations focusing on conservation.

Deira Islands, Dubai

The first phase of this massive waterfront development is now open, with several hotels and key developments launched in 2021 including Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai, Riu Dubai (pictured) and the 2,500-outlet Souk Al Marfa. Spread across four manmade islands in northern Dubai, close to the Sharjah border, Deira Islands will eventually add 40km of coastline to the emirate, including 21 km of prime beachfront real estate. Deira Islands will also play host to Dubai’s second-largest shopping mall, the $1.66 billion Deira Mall, as well as the Zombie Apocalypse Park (ZAP) entertainment zone, located in the Night Market district.

Jais Sledder, Ras Al Khaimah

Touted as the region’s longest toboggan ride, Jais Sledder propels riders down the famed Jebel Jais mountainside at speeds of up to 40 km/h along a dedicated 1.8km track. Located at Jais Adventure Park, the exhilarating ride takes in panoramic views of the spectacular Hajar mountains. It is the latest addition to RAK’s adventure tourism offering, which also includes Jais Flight – the world’s longest zipline – Jais Sky Tour and the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp. Jais Sledder also forms part of a US$136 million investment strategy that will see the development of 20 new adventure-tourism projects across the emirate.

Reem Mall, Abu Dhabi

Set to open later this year (2022), Reem Mall promises to fuse cutting-edge technology with the latest trends in experiential retailing. Promoted as the world’s first ‘omnichannel mall’, shoppers using the mall’s RFID-enabled app will be targeted with exclusive offers and marketing promotions while inside the centre and will be able to make purchases digitally. Reem Mall will feature more than 450 stores including a hypermarket and four department stores; a multiplex cinema; and Snow Abu Dhabi, an 11,612 sqm snow park featuring 13 rides and attractions, including a snowflake garden, crystal carousel and ice labyrinth.

Zayed National Museum, Abu Dhabi

Located on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi's dedicated culture district, this landmark museum will tell the story of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the inspirational role he played in overseeing the UAE’s formation in 1971. The building’s main gallery will feature a collection of rare artifacts, while other halls will focus on key UAE cultural icons covering falconry and conservation; land and water use; and the country’s socioeconomic development. Islam’s historic contribution to science and technological progress will also be explored. The museum, which will also house the massive Sheikh Zayed Library, is due to open in the mid-2020s.

Mohammed bin Rashid Library, Dubai

Dubbed the largest cultural project in the Arab world and built at a cost of almost $300 million, this unique seven storey building will span more than 650,000 square feet and house more than 4.5 million print, audio and electronic books, as well as a 500-seat lecture theatre. The library will host the global headquarters of The International Council for the Arabic Language and publish the Mohammad Bin Rashid Contemporary Arabic Language Dictionary. It will have the capacity to welcome 42 million visitors annually and is scheduled to open later this year.

Abu Dhabi Midfield Terminal, Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi International Airport’s long delayed but highly anticipated $3 billion Midfield Terminal is scheduled to open before the end of 2022. The mega facility will span an area of 742,000 sqm and initially provide capacity for up to 30 million passengers annually (up to 8,500 passengers per hour). The Midfield Terminal Building will be the largest in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and will be visible from more than 1.5km away

Dubai Creek Harbour

Another megaproject currently under development, Dubai Creek Harbour, will be home to the UAE’s tallest tower, the $1 billion Dubai Tower, when it is completed. The six million sqm development will be twice the size of Downtown Dubai and feature waterfront eco-resorts, a marina and yacht club, as well as vast commercial and retail space. Several components of the development have already been completed. Developers have also announced plans for Dubai Square, which aims to be a tech-driven retail destination.

District 2020, Dubai

With Expo 2020 Dubai concluding on March 31, the event precinct in Dubai South is currently being transformed into District 2020, a dedicated mixed-use business hub that will promote and foster innovation. More than 80% of Expo 2020’s built environment is being repurposed in the transition to District 2020, with spotlight landmarks including Terra - The Sustainability Pavilion. Major expo digital services partners including Siemens and Accenture will establish their regional headquarters at the site, while Dubai’s new landmark exhibition and conference centre, Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), will transition to staging non-Expo conferences and events this year.

Al Hamra Redevelopment, Ras Al Khaimah

RAK-based real estate developer Al Hamra recently revealed AED1 billion (US$270 million) plans to enhance its real estate and hospitality portfolio in the emirate, with strategic investments expected in lifestyle, retail, hospitality, and leisure facilities in the emirate. According to local media reports, the group’s initial plans include redeveloping Manar Mall, while improvements to Al Hamra Residence, Al Hamra Village and Residence, Waterfront, and Al Hamra Marina & Yacht Club are also in the pipeline.

Guggenheim Museum, Abu Dhabi

Set to open in 2025, the first Guggenheim in the Middle East will showcase global modern and contemporary art and programming, with a specific focus on West Asia, North Africa, and South Asia (WANASA). With both Emirati and regional experts overseeing the museum’s collection and programmes, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will provide a first-of-its-kind platform for local artists to create commissioned works and engage with global audiences. Guggenheim Abu Dhabi aims to foster a deeper understanding of how different art perspectives have shaped the interconnected histories and cultures of our time. Located in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum will also be an architectural landmark inspired by the vernacular architecture of the UAE and the region.

Al Hira Beach, Sharjah

Shurooq’s largest beach development project to date, Al Hira Beach covers a 3.5km stretch of Sharjah City coastline. Scheduled to open to beachgoers later this year, the $24 million development is the first leisure precinct being developed in the city’s Al Fisht area, with further plans underway to transform this family-friendly neighbourhood into a vibrant tourism destination.

AlUla

Known for its natural beauty and archaeological diversity, and home to UNESCO World Heritage Site Hegra, AlUla, which is now partly open, aims to attract two million tourists annually by 2035. Located 300 km north of Medina, it is home to ancient ruins and stunning landscapes that bring to mind Jordan’s famed Wadi Rum. Ultimately, authorities plan for the area to become known as the world’s ‘largest living museum’ featuring galleries, museums and luxury eco-resorts housing a combined inventory of 9,000 guestrooms. Aman Resorts and Banyan Tree have signed agreements to operate luxury tented camps onsite, while phase one of the recently opened Habitas AlUla features 100 “experiential rooms” and Habitas’ signature “immersive programme”, which “celebrates AlUla’s heritage and local culture”. The Banyan Tree property is due to open later this year.

Diriyah

This historic city located 15 minutes north-west of Riyadh’s city centre is set to become one of the region’s foremost lifestyle destinations for culture and heritage, hospitality, retail and education. Phase one of the project is already drawing local and international visitors, thanks to its historically sensitive reimagining of the area and world-class entertainment and events. In line with design, development and preservation standards, master developer, the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), is creating an environment that enhances Diriyah’s national and international relevance, including the preservation of the At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site, which sits at the heart of the development. When completed, the destination will feature more than 20 hotels, several museums and cultural attractions, outdoor plazas, shops and 100-plus places to dine. It aims to attract 25 million visitors annually.

Jeddah International Circuit

Located in Jeddah’s Corniche area on the Red Sea approximately 12 km north of the city centre, the Kingdom’s new Formula 1 track has been widely hailed as among the best street circuits in the world. Developed in partnership by Tilke Engineers and F1’s own Motorsports Division, Jeddah International Circuit features fast flowing high-speed esses and chicanes, as well as long full throttle sections. Having successfully hosted the 2022 Saudi Arabian F1 GP in March, the track continues to prove one of Jeddah’s most popular new tourism attractions.

Trojena

One of the first major tourism projects announced under the NEOM banner, Trojena will include the region’s first outdoor ski resort, thanks to its location high up in the mountains 50km from Aqaba. The project, which is scheduled for completion in 2026, will also feature family and wellness resorts, retail and F&B outlets, and offer visitors a range of adventure tourism focused activities, including water sports and mountain biking. Trojena is expected to create more than 10,000 jobs and add US$800 million to the kingdom’s GDP by 2030.

NEOM

This incredible futuristic city is being built from scratch in north-west Saudi Arabia on the Red Sea, adjacent to the Jordanian and Egyptian borders, creating the region’s first trans-national metropolis. Described by Saudi authorities as a “civilisational leap for humanity”, NEOM is envisaged as a global hub for advanced research and development and will house cutting-edge industries from bio-tech to robotic manufacturing. It will also become one of the region’s premier business and tourism destinations, housing hundreds of hotels and resorts, a convention centre and dozens of leisure attractions. Comprising towns, cities, ports, enterprise zones, research centres and sports and entertainment venues, NEOM will also be the home and workplace of more than a million residents from around the world.

The Rig

This unique tourism attraction, which is being developed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), will be designed to resemble an offshore oil platform, and will be situated in the Arabian Gulf. Covering an area of more than 150,000 sqm, the Rig will feature three hotels with 800 rooms, 11 restaurants, including underwater dining options, extreme sports and aquatic sporting experiences.

Soudah

Located in Saudi Arabia’s Asir region, this US$3 billion luxury mountain destination will include 2,700 hotel rooms, 1,300 residential units, and 30 unique commercial and entertainment attractions. Soudah Development Company (SDC) aims to develop Soudah and Rijal Alma’a into a repeat, year-long sustainable destination for residents and visitors that will contribute an estimate of $8 billion to the kingdom’s cumulative GDP by 2030. SDC also aims to attract more than two million visitors annually and expects the development to create 8,000 new hospitality and tourism jobs by 2030.

Qiddiya

Located 40km from downtown Riyadh and being developed at a cost of $500 billion, Qiddiya is envisaged as the kingdom’s capital of entertainment, sports and the arts and at 334 sqkm, will be more than twice the size of Walt Disney World Orlando in Florida when completed. It will feature five zones: Resort Core, City Centre, Motion Zone, Eco Zone and Golf Community. The world’s largest Six Flags theme park covering 32 hectares will be located in the Resort Core, as well as hotels and other tourism attractions. Qiddiya is also being pitched as a potential location for an F1 Grand Prix in Saudi Arabia while renowned golfer and golf course designer, Jack Nicklaus, recently confirmed he is designing a championship course in Qiddiya, his first in Saudi Arabia.

Qiddiya Water Theme Park

Being built at a cost of $750 million, the Qiddiya Water Theme Park will be one of the key entertainment attractions at Qiddiya, Saudi Arabia’s future capital of entertainment, sports, and culture. The tourism attraction, which will be Saudi Arabia’s first and the region’s largest water theme park, will cover an area 252,000 sqm and feature 22 rides and attractions – including nine that will be world firsts, the developer claims. The park will feature nine themed zones: the Entry Gate, Camel Rock, Dub Grotto, Wave Wadi, the Den, Viper Canyon, Arabian Peak, the Herding Grounds and Surf Lagoon, each of which is inspired by the native animals that inhabit the area around Qiddiya. The park’s design will incorporate advanced environmental systems designed to minimise the use of water through recycling in line with QIC’s sustainability practices. Some rides have been designed to use 75% less water compared to the more conventional rides found in other water parks. In addition, rainwater that falls on the site will be captured, treated, and reused for irrigating the destination.

Six Flags Qiddiya

The first Six Flags branded theme park in the Middle East and North Africa, Six Flags Qiddiya will cover an area of 320,000 sqm and feature 28 rides and attractions of which 10 will be thrill rides, with 18 rides designed for families and young children. Each ride is being designed exclusively for Qiddiya and will embody the rich cultural heritage of the location as well as Saudi Arabia. The theme park will be home to five signature rides that will break 10 world records including: Falcons Flight, the world’s tallest, fastest and longest coaster; Sirocco Tower, the world’s tallest, free-standing shot tower ride; Gyrospin, the world’s tallest pendulum ride; Spitfire, the world’s tallest inverted top hat coaster; and Iron Rattler, the world’s tallest tilt coaster. The rides and attractions at the theme park will be spread across six immersive lands: The City of Thrills, Discovery Springs, Steam Town, Twilight Gardens, Valley of Fortune, and Grand Exposition. The park is scheduled to open in 2023.

Riyadh Metro

One of the region’s largest urban infrastructure projects, the $23 billion Riyadh Metro is set to finally open later this year. Comprising six separate rail lines and 84 stations spanning a total length of 176km, the Metro forms the backbone of Riyadh’s new public transportation system. It is anticipated the service will carry up to 3.6 million passengers per day when fully operational.

Jeddah Central Project

The $20 billion redevelopment of Jeddah’s waterfront corniche is a long-term project that covers an area of 5.7 million square metres and will include a range of five-star hotels, retail and F&B outlets and museums. Other key attractions will include a state-of-the-art oceanarium, an opera house and a sports stadium. Phase one of the project, which is currently under development, will include the creation of one of the largest public beaches in Jeddah, alongside a new pier and marina facilities. The entire project is scheduled for completion in 2027.

Jeddah Tower

The $2 billion Jeddah Tower will eclipse Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and forthcoming Dubai Creek Tower as the world’s tallest building when it opens, rising to a staggering 1km. The centrepiece of the $20 billion Jeddah Economic City project, it will house a luxury hotel, residences, office space and an outdoor viewing platform that will double as an ‘air park’.

Amaala

Located on the Red Sea coastline and set to become the ‘Riviera of the Middle East’, Amaala will be a unique ultra-luxury destination with a focus on wellness and healthy living. The project will feature multiple marinas, a yacht club, art galleries, high-end wellness resorts and a host of additional tourist attractions, including a stunning amphitheatre.

Red Sea Project

The Red Sea Project is being pitched as “the world’s most ambitious luxury tourism development, offering an exclusive experience of unparalleled diversity for discerning global travellers”. This enormous tourism project encompasses an archipelago of more than 90 pristine islands, miles of sweeping desert and dramatic mountain landscapes. Highlights of the development, located on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Coast between the cities of Umluj and Al Wajh, will include a new airport, hotels, island resorts and luxury residences, multiple marinas, restaurants, and a variety of tourist attractions. The GIGA project will prove crucial to Saudi Arabia’s plan for attracting 100 million visitors annually by 2030 and will set a new standard for sustainable development, offering access to some of Saudi Arabia’s most important cultural treasures and protecting, preserving, and enhancing the natural environment.

BAHRAIN

Bahrain International Airport expansion, Manama

Bahrain International’s new 210,000 sqm passenger terminal finally opened in 2021, after being delayed by almost 12 months due to the pandemic. The opening of the facility has boosted the airport’s capacity from 9 million to 14 million passengers annually. It features a 4,600 sqm departure hall, 104 check-in counters, 36 passport control booths and 24 security checkpoints. The terminal is the centrepiece of the $1.1 billion Airport Modernisation Programme (AMP), one of the largest and most important projects in the kingdom’s history and the largest investment in Bahrain’s aviation sector for more than 20 years. Bahrain’s national carrier, Gulf Air operates from this terminal.

Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre

Located in Sakhir, the new Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre will boast more than 95,000 square metres of exhibition space spanning 10 halls, a 4,000-seat tiered auditorium and 95 meeting rooms. Set to open later this year, the venue is billed as being the largest exhibition and convention centre in the Middle East.

Bahrain Sports City

This integrated sports district, which is being developed at a cost of $467 million, will be located near to the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir. Highlights will include an international football stadium with capacity for 50,000 spectators as well as training pitches, an Olympic-sized swimming pool and other facilities.

Bahrain Metro

Set to cover a total distance of almost 110 km, the Bahrain Metro will feature driverless trains capable of transporting 43,000 passengers per hour. The entire network is expected to cost $2 billion to construct and will be implemented in four phases. The first phase, comprising two lines with a total length of 29km and served by 20 stations, is expected to be operational in 2027.

Hamad International Phase B expansion

Hamad International Airport’s (HIA) Phase B expansion is set to begin later this year, with the aim of increasing the air hub’s capacity to more than 60 million passengers annually. The airport’s redevelopment will include extensions to concourses D and E and an expansion of the airport’s main terminal, which will also benefit from the addition of a 7,000 sqm indoor tropical garden and 268 sqm water feature, creating a focal point for all travellers.

World Cup stadia

Qatar's eight stadia hosting the World Cup will each feature a distinct design: Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor will resemble a large tent, in a nod to Qatar’s nomadic tribes; Al Rayyan Stadium will be a geometric structure that tells Qatar’s national story; and Al Thumama Stadium will resemble the Gahfiya – traditional male headwear. The largest structure, Lusail Stadium (pictured), will accommodate up to 80,000 fans and will host the opening and final games of the tournament.

Lusail City

Lusail City is a futuristic sustainable city covering 38 sq km and featuring some 19 multi-purpose residential, mixed-use, entertainment and commercial districts. The city will have its own tram network to reduce carbin emissions, which will connect to the new Doha Metro. The centrepiece of the project is the iconic Katara Towers at Lusail Marina District, which will be occupied by two hotels – a six-star Raffles and a five-star Fairmont.

Qetaifan Island North

Qetaifan Island North project is a new island destination accessible from the mainland via two iconic hanging bridges. Part of the Lusail City project, it’s close to the 80,000-seat Lusail Stadium and 27km from Hamad International. It will be home to Rixos Doha Qetaifan as well as a souq, beach club (pictured), theme park and water park. The theme park will feature The Icon Tower, the world’s highest structure of its kind, standing 82 metres and promising visitors a memorable adrenaline rush. In addition, ADMARES Construction and Qetaifan Projects have joined forces to build 16 floating luxury hotels on the island. Bringing 1,616 rooms to market, the temporary properties are designed to host visiting FIFA 2022 World Cup fans. The four-storey structures will all feature a restaurant, lounge/bar and 101 Scandinavian-style rooms and when the tournament is over, they will be relocated and repurposed.

Yiti development

Claimed to be one of the largest integrated tourism developments in Oman, the Yiti development will span 11 million sqm of the sultanate’s coastline overlooking the Sea of Oman. The master-planned development will feature residential components and resort-style amenities, alongside watersport attractions and a range of commercial, retail and leisure facilities.

Al Sahel Tourism project

Oman’s Qurayyat Development Company recently revealed plans to develop a new US$1 billion tourist resort in Al Sahel, which lies near the small fishing village of Qurayyat about 80 km south-east of Muscat. To be developed in three phases, the first phase of the development will cover an area of 130 hectares and will feature 400 homes, a 220-key four-star resort, and an equestrian and camel riding club. The second and third phases will see the construction of a golf academy, luxury waterfront villas, and new three and five-star hotels featuring 150 and 200 keys respectively. The project also includes the addition of a floating berth to the fishing port to moor ferries and yachts.

Al Araimi Walkway, Muscat, Oman

Oman’s first-ever ‘retailtainment destination’, this boulevard-style commercial centre features a four-star hotel, more than 370 retail outlets, a broad selection of cafés and restaurants and entertainment and leisure facilities, including a cinema and a water park. Developer Al Raid Group predicts the development will ultimately create up to 3,000 new jobs in Muscat.

Adam Safari Park, Adam

Oman’s first zoo, located in the Wilyat of Adam, will include a large safari park where numerous species of animals will roam freely; a safari hotel village and restaurant; an amusement park featuring a steel rollercoaster; a go-kart track and a large maze for children. The Adam Safari Park has been commissioned as part of the Oman Tourism Strategy.

Khazaen Economic City

Oman’s first giga project, Khazaen Economic City (KEC), will cover an area of 52 million sqm upon completion. In addition to ports and other economic infrastructure, KEC will feature hotels, commercial areas and entertainment zones. Located in Barka to the north of Muscat, it is the largest public-private partnership project currently underway in the Sultanate of Oman.

Kuwait Entertainment City

Kuwait’s new mega-tourism attraction, Kuwait Entertainment City, will span some 2,650 million sqm and will feature various themed areas, rides, and live entertainment venues.

Kuwait International Airport expansion

The $1.4 billion expansion of Kuwait’s international air hub is designed to boost overall capacity to 25 million passengers by 2025. The airport’s new, state-of-the-art terminal, which is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of this year, will span four floors and will include 120 check-in desks, between 3 and 51 aircraft contact stands, and an automated baggage handling facility capable of processing almost 3,000 luggage items an hour. Other new developments include a multi-storey car park, taxiways, and aprons.

Saudi is taking its place on the global tourism stage, driving efforts to meet the demands of global travellers as we continue to open our arms and open our hearts to the world.”

FAHD

HAMIDADDIN, CEO, SAUDI TOURISM AUTHORITY

Source: STA

The Red Sea

5.3% Tourism contributor to GDP

836,000 New jobs created 62mn Total visitation

32.5mn Domestic visitation

29.5mn International visitation

2030 KEY INDICATORS

10%+ Tourism contributor to GDP

1mn New jobs created 100mn Total visitation

45mn Domestic visitation

55mn International visitation

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Member of the Board, Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), explains why Saudi Arabia is the most exciting opportunity in tourism today

Home of the old, first place of the new

Q: What have been STA’s major achievements over the past year?

Saudi is going through an amazing transformation and tourism is at the forefront. Despite the challenges created by the pandemic, we have driven domestic and international awareness of everything the destination has to offer. We have worked closely with the private sector to secure more than 300 global partners and deliver more than 270 products. The result has been a record 55.5 million domestic visits and a 35% increase in non-religious inbound visitation in 2021.

Saudi today is recognised as an exciting new destination, the authentic home of Arabia and the emerging leisure and entertainment hub of the region; and we are just getting started.

Q: How has the destination successfully navigated the pandemic?

While the travel and tourism sector was paralysed by the pandemic, Saudi kept moving. Although the priority was to save lives, we were also committed to protecting livelihoods and jobs by building a culture of domestic tourism.

We were among the first to roll out COVIDrelated safety protocols, aligned with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travel guidelines and the IATA Travel Pass. Close collaboration across government and private sector and strong support from the country’s leadership were key to helping us ensure tourism was up and running as quickly as possible

Throughout the pandemic, STA delivered a sustained programme of promotion in close collaboration with the country’s destination management companies (DMCs), opening up destinations relatively unknown to domestic travellers. The results were significant. Between 2020 and 2021, Saudi saw a 37% increase in new DMCs entering the market, supported by a 43% increase in domestic leisure tourism, all without a concomitant spike in COVID infections.

Q: What has been the impact of Saudi easing travel restrictions?

Saudi was among the first countries in the world to completely lift COVID-related travel restrictions and the results speak for themselves.

The lifting of restrictions was a significant boost to the success of landmark events like the

The AlUla Skies festival

Fahd Hamidaddin

Tarik Z. Khoja

MDLBeast electronic dance music festival, which attracted more than 730,000 visitors to become the biggest event of its kind in the world, and the Riyadh Season lifestyle festival, which welcomed more than 11 million visitors.

Most importantly, these events were delivered safely and without a resulting spike in COVID cases.

And while entertainment events have been particularly successful in attracting short-haul visitors from the GCC, we are also seeing significant growth in long-haul arrivals. In the first quarter of 2022 more than 50% of inbound travellers came from Europe, the Americas and APAC.

Q: What are the prospects for Saudi’s tourism industry in 2022?

Saudi’s successful navigation of the pandemic has firmly positioned the destination as tourism begins to recover.

According to UNWTO data, Saudi’s inbound travel figures have reached 72% of pre-pandemic levels, compared to a global average of 33%, outpacing APAC (7%), Europe (47%) and the broader Middle East (37%). This is a clear demonstration of just how much Saudi has to offer travellers, especially those seeking to understand the cultural heritage of the wider Arabian world. This is the authentic home of Arabia, combining culture, pristine

nature, diverse landscapes and a rapidly expanding entertainment offering. It’s a year-round destination with stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites, vibrant marine ecosystems, temperate highlands and a diverse range of cuisine and cultures, plus breathtaking landscapes spanning some 13 regions.

We are also investing more in tourism than any other country the world, in destinations, infrastructure, business support and training.

And we’re seeing more small-to-medium-sized businesses across the country beginning to think differently about the future, recognising the immense growth opportunities within the tourism sector.

I believe that Saudi is the most exciting destination in tourism today, not only because it is still relatively undiscovered by travellers, but also for the incredible opportunity it presents to tourism-related businesses.

If you are in tourism, you should be in Saudi.

Q: What progress has been made with achieving the tourism targets of Vision 2030?

Tourism is a sector that cuts across entire economies. Vision 2030 is about a new blueprint for Saudi’s socioeconomic future, so tourism both affects and is affected by many areas of the plan.

The opening of the entertainment sector, for example, has significantly boosted tourism opportunities, which we have realised through sustained promotion and visitor attraction. The introduction of the e-visa has greatly facilitated visitation.

I think perhaps the most profound impact of Vision 2030 has been in the way Saudis, especially Saudi women, have embraced tourism as a career opportunity.

The Edge of the World, a natural icon near Riyadh

At STA for example, almost half our team are women across every area of our business, from legal and strategy to marketing and commercial and everything in between.

I believe that tourism is about residents first. Residents are the ultimate beneficiaries of tourism, protecting cultural assets, preserving and enhancing natural environments, and creating long-term career opportunities. By involving our local communities in our plans, we give them the opportunity of owning their country as hosts.

Tourism becomes a part of their lives and livelihoods. It's not tourism happening to them – it is inspiring them to stand proud and be a part of shaping how their country is moving forward.

Q: What tourism sub-sectors are the authority's growth priorities?

Saudi has so much to offer that we have to be strategic about where we invest as well as visionary about what we want the destination to be.

We have a very strong cultural and heritage offer, anchored in six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including iconic locations like AlUla and Diriyah, as well as more than 10,000 other sites of archaeological interest.

We have an extraordinary natural asset in the Saudi Red Sea, which is home to untouched beaches and thriving coral reefs.

We have already started to unlock this asset through the introduction of cruise and we are expanding our sun-andsea offer through the continued, thoughtful development of the coast.

Outdoor adventure is a key sector, from the Great Arabian Dunes, which are perfect for desert glamping and authentic Bedouin experiences unique to Saudi, to the temperate Highlands of Aseer, which offer a stunning contrast to the more prevalent perceptions of Saudi.

Saudi is also an incredibly vibrant youth capital, with a calendar of entertainment and sporting events that are attracting global attention, supported by a burgeoning dining scene that includes world-class international

should be in Saudi”

restaurants, as well as introducing Saudi’s own distinctive regional cuisines. And of course, we have a huge spiritual offer, not only for the world’s two billion Muslims visiting to perform Umrah and explore more of their spiritual heritage, but for anyone interested in a unique experience grounded in personal growth and wellness.

Phase one of the Red Sea Project is due for completion this year

Diriyah is an iconic location

“If you are in tourism, you

Q: What’s new in Saudi for 2022 in terms of new tourism attractions and experiences?

I think that 2022 will be a watershed for tourism in Saudi, with an extraordinary range of attractions coming online, as well as the first phases of some of our gigaprojects. We have a significant pipeline of new leading hotels opening their doors in 2022 and world-renowned restaurants will welcome new diners. teamLab Borderless Jeddah will be a new digital art space in Jeddah and Cyan Waterpark will join the ranks of world-class waterparks across the globe. Saudi Design Festival, The Saudi Cup and Jeddah Grand Prix may have already passed for 2022 but were certainly highlights for tourists and Saudis alike.

The first phases of Diriyah and the Red Sea will begin welcoming guests this year and we are expanding our cruise offer to include both Saudi-specific and international cruises.

We’re also opening up many of the country’s nature reserves to tourism to give travellers a personal experience of Saudi’s unique ecosystems and wildlife.

Q: How is the hotel market shaping up in Saudi?

Saudi is investing significantly in hotel capacity and we have the largest pipeline of new rooms of any destination in the world. With 80,000 rooms under contract, Saudi accounts for 3.2% of the total global pipeline of 2.5 million.

What I find especially exciting is the number of brands that are coming to Saudi for the first time – brands like Banyan Tree, Nobu and Habitas, as they recognise the growth potential for the market.

And, of course, established operators including Hilton, Accor, Marriott and IHG have all announced extensive growth plans for the market.

We are also witnessing the growth of domestic hospitality brands, which is very exciting, as more people and businesses start to recognise the huge opportunity that tourism presents.

Brands like the Boutique Group will manage and convert historic and cultural palaces across the country into luxury boutique hotels.

These brands not only inject an authentic Arabian flavour into our hospitality offering but create opportunities for young Saudis to play a very personal role in building our domestic tourism economy.

Q: What’s your sustainable tourism development strategy and how does Saudi aim to set new global benchmarks in this respect?

Saudi has a made a very public and far-reaching commitment to sustainable, and more importantly, regenerative tourism. Our focus is on establishing a leading global destination by purposefully engineering social, cultural, economic and environmental imperatives.

As part of this policy, Saudi created the Principles for Redesigning Tourism, which put at front-and-centre the core issues we must immediately address – including international collaboration, sustainability, the economy and tourism’s role in strengthening our society.

More importantly though, we are delivering. The Red Sea is already setting a new global standard in regenerative tourism, targeting a carbon-neutral destination 100% powered by renewable energy and delivering a net positive impact on the natural environment.

AlUla is making a significant investment in local communities, creating opportunities for people who live in the region to build successful careers, powered by tourism, on their doorsteps.

Soudah is developing a highland destination with a strong focus on preserving

Clockwise from above: Saudi is home to diverse landscapes

Riyadh is one of many thriving KSA hotel markets

Soudah is developing a highland destination

the environmental integrity and protecting the destination’s natural assets following a rigorous regulatory framework and urban planning code to underpin all its development activities.

The city of Riyadh has launched an initiative to plant 7.5 million trees around the city, increasing biodiversity, decreasing energy consumption and creating attractive green spaces for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.

Our natural and cultural assets are the reason that people visit us.

We have seen the world over the environmental, community and financial cost of prioritising tourism over the preservation of the environment and the livelihoods that it supports. We don’t intend to make the same mistakes.

Q: What is your ultimate vision in terms of positioning Saudi as a global tourism destination?

Saudi offers endless diversity and endless surprise. It is the authentic home of Arabia. It is the home of the old: of the sanctuaries of Arabia, the birthplace of the Arabian language.

It is the first place of the new – the capital of youth and the engine of growth.

And it is the most exciting opportunity in tourism today.

A vision with wings

Captain Ibrahim S. Koshy, CEO, SAUDIA Air Transport Company discusses SAUDIA’s transformation into a world-class airline, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions

The pandemic has posed significant challenges for the aviation sector, with many carriers struggling to survive, but SAUDIA, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, has bucked the trend, continuing on its growth trajectory and embracing innovation throughout this period of unprecedented turbulence.

Its achievements have not gone unnoticed, with the carrier crowned ‘World’s Most Improved Airline’ by Skytrax in 2021, marking the second time in four years it had received the accolade.

“The Skytrax award is a huge vote of confidence from our passengers, the travelling public and our Al Fursan members, and we are proud of that,” says Captain Ibrahim S. Koshy, CEO, SAUDIA Air Transport Company. “I am very proud of the team too, from the people working at the airport on the maintenance side, to the cabin and flights crews on board.

“I see them on a daily basis making sure we get everything right for every guest. They all feel motivated and proud following the recognition we have received.”

The Skytrax accolade followed SAUDIA being ranked a Five-Star Global Airline by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX).

APEX Official Airline Ratings is the first airline rating programme based solely on certified passenger feedback, which yet again demonstrated traveller confidence in the SAUDIA experience. Ending 2021 on a high note, the airline was then ranked first in YouGov’s Best Brand Rankings for Saudi Arabia.

“Despite travel restrictions and grounding of flights for extended periods owing to the ongoing pandemic, SAUDIA has made notable improvements to its brand

perception and climbed up two places to come first (51.9) in the 2021 Best Brand rankings,” notes YouGov.

The rankings are based on the Index score from YouGov BrandIndex, which is a measure of overall brand health that indicates how well a brand is delivering against its brand promise on key attributes and is calculated by taking the average of the Impression, Quality, Value, Satisfaction, Recommend and Reputation scores collected in BrandIndex

SAUDIA outranked global sports and lifestyle brand Adidas, which made a new entry in the kingdom’s 2021 top 10 brands, ranking in second place (50.3).

These accolades reflect SAUDIA’s ongoing journey in pursuit of excellence across all aspects of the business, focusing in particular on the guest experience.

As part of the airline’s SV2020 Strategy & Transformation Plan, SAUDIA has invested in new aircraft, product innovation and service enhancements

Captain Ibrahim S. Koshy

with a view to offering customers the highest level of hospitality and comfort in the skies.

“We are now working towards accelerating our growth and the customer experience and targeting even better results,” says Captain Koshy.

“We believe we are the wings of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s socio-economic transformation strategy, which includes growing tourism significantly. It is our job to support the tourism industry, getting people to visit Saudi Arabia to see all that it has to offer.”

NATURALLY GENEROUS HOSPITALITY

A cornerstone of SAUDIA’s philosophy is the idea of “naturally generous” hospitality.

In a world of anonymous ‘McBrands’, the airline prides itself on offering “authentic and genuine hospitality”. This is complemented by the introduction of new service elements on the ground and in the air,

SAUDIA is “the wings of Vision 2030”

IN NUMBERS

Q1 2022

5.1mn Guests (+75% y-oy)

40,000+ Flights (+44% y-o-y)

144 Aircraft 101.6k Hours (+77% y-o-y)

with notable onboard improvements that have received industry recognition including a new children’s pack; dedicated women’s amenities in First Class and Business Class; and improved in-flight catering, entertainment and connectivity.

Hygiene kits provided in partnership with Lifebuoy and a warm towel service for Economy Class passengers have also been well received by passengers.

One standout improvement is the introduction of SAUDIA ambassadors who greet First and Business Class passengers and escort them to the airline’s lounges at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The ambassadors are also on hand to provide information such as flight times and upgrade availability.

SAUDIA is also one of just six airlines globally to offer and in-flight chef service for its premium cabins.

A team of 150 chefs have been hand-picked from upscale hotels and restaurants, some of whom have worked with Michelin-starred chefs.

In addition to their culinary skills, they have all undergone rigorous flight attendant training to comply with the standards of the airline.

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

While there’s no doubt the carrier is excelling at present, Captain Koshy says SAUDIA will not rest on its laurels. Operating a route network of more than 100 destinations and a fleet of 145 aircraft – one of the youngest fleets globally – the plan is to continue with this “upward trajectory” first initiated in 2017.

While COVID-19 may have temporarily changed the airline’s priorities, Captain Koshy acknowledges that in striving to become an industry leader in its approach to customer confidence, comfort and safety, during the pandemic, SAUDIA’s transformation was accelerated.

Introducing safety measures such as enhanced aircraft sanitisation and onboard measures in partnership with Dettol and Lifebuoy set the airline apart, and in addition to the aforementioned industry accolades, SAUDIA received a vote of confidence from major financial institutions.

Emirates now operates more than 240 aircraft

At a time when COVID-19 had decimated the travel, tourism, and aviation sectors, the airline, in March 2021, signed the largest financing deal in the history of Saudi aviation.

Worth some US$3 billion and involving six banks, the finance deal is being used to power a huge fleet expansion of 78 new aircraft from Boeing and Airbus.

This includes the A321neo and A321XLR aircraft, both of which will offer some of the most cutting-edge in-flight services and internet speeds in the world.

These newer aircraft are more comfortable, offer a greater range of passenger services, including IFE, and are also more fuel efficient, in line with SAUDIA’s robust sustainability programme.

A SHOWSTOPPER IN DUBAI

In November 2021, SAUDIA further demonstrated its global leadership at the Dubai Airshow, the first international aviation even the airline had attended ‘live’ since the onset of the pandemic.

SAUDIA’s embodies “naturally generous” hospitality

It was also the first time that SAUDIA had been represented as a group, with all 12 subsidiaries, including the low-cost carrier flyadeal, showcased at the SAUDIA pavilion.

Several key announcements were made with a view to accelerating SAUDIA’s goal of becoming both a world-leading airline and a formidable aviation group.

They included the integration of several B787 Dreamliner and B777 fleets featuring predictive maintenance analytics and diagnostic tools to help improve the quality and speed of maintenance decisions, resulting in improved on-time performance.

In addition, agreements signed with Inmarsat and Panasonic Avionics opened a window to the future of air travel, by significantly improving in-flight entertainment and internet connectivity as we know it.

AN IN-FLIGHT TECH LEADER

At the Airshow, SAUDIA signalled it would become the first airline globally to integrate both Inmarsat’s revolutionary new OneFi customer experience platform (CXP) as well as the next-generation terminal for GX Aviation, developed with GDC Technics.

Inmarsat’s OneFi is an airline-branded digital platform designed to enhance the on-board experience.

It enables passengers to order food and beverages, purchase seat upgrades, receive the latest flight and destination information, and sign-up to the airline’s frequent flyer programmes, all in real-time from the comfort of their seat.

Passengers can also browse the internet, stream videos and audio, shop online and enjoy other e-commerce offerings using high-speed in-flight broadband.

Meanwhile, the next-generation terminal developed by Inmarsat and GDC Technics will deliver high-speed wireless broadband, even over congested air hubs.

What is destined to be an industry-leading in-flight digital experience will initially be introduced on 20 A321neo and 15 A321XLR aircraft.

From below: The carrier crowned ‘World’s Most Improved Airline’ by Skytrax in 2021,

The airline has made significant customer experience enhancements

In terms of business travel, it could transform what is possible during a flight, with Zoom meetings at 30,000 feet a reality. These aircraft (the A321neo and A321XLR) will also receive the latest 4k and Bluetooth IFE innovations from Panasonic Avionics.

In addition to a full cabin advanced HD experience, SAUDIA passengers travelling on the new aircraft will be able to take advantage of Bluetooth audio streaming, allowing them to unlock a library of premium entertainment options safely, using their own Bluetoothenabled headphones.

Meanwhile, Business Class passengers will be able to experience the full 4K experience on a 16-inch screen and use wireless charging to seamlessly connect

“It is our job to support the tourism industry, getting people to visit Saudi Arabia to see all that it has to offers”

with friends, family and colleagues as soon as they reach their destination.

“Our focus on IFE and connectivity will further enhance passenger satisfaction and confidence,” says Captain Koshy.

“We will be offering passengers the same levels of connectivity in the air that they experience at home or, following the roll-out of 5G, when they are out and about. We are also meeting increased demand for contactless passenger touchpoints.”

CONNECTING THE WORLD TO THE KINGDOM

With the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia emerging as one of the most exciting tourism destinations globally, virtually unspoiled and unexplored by the world's travelling population, SAUDIA is playing a pivotal role in delivering visitors to the kingdom to discover all that it has to offer.

To organically expand visitation to Saudi Arabia in support of tourism ambitions, with 100 million visitors targeted by 2030, SAUDIA continues to grow its destination network.

At time of press, the carrier operated to 200 stations, more than double the 2019 network of 91, and in the first quarter of 2022, carried 5.1 million guests, up 75% compared to the same quarter in 2021.

SAUDIA operated more than 40,000 flights in Q1, an increase of 44% compared to Q1 2021, while the airline’s fleet of 144 aircraft flew more than 101,600 hours, up 77% over the same period last year.

“The strong traffic results represent the culmination of the efforts of the airline’s staff, who have been the driving force behind the airline’s comeback to preCOVID levels of activity,” says Captain Koshy.

“As demand returned, our strong airline business fundamentals have translated into a significant improvement in our performance.

“This achievement has been made possible by the commitment of our hardworking employees combined with our business agility.”

His Excellency Eng. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of the Saudi Arabian Airlines Corporation, adds: “As the momentum for travel continues to build, we will increase frequencies and introduce new destinations on our network during 2022. This strategy is especially important in light of the kingdom’s megaprojects and transformation agenda for the tourism industry, as we continue to serve as the ‘Wings of Vision 2030’ and welcome the world to Saudi Arabia.”

The first three months of 2022 saw the kingdom play host to several entertainment and cultural events, which contributed to a strong uptick in passenger numbers, according to the airline.

SAUDIA also recently announced several new destination additions to its global network in anticipation of a busy summer 2022.

Destinations introduced include Bangkok, Barcelona,

SAUDIA connects to the world to KSA

Cutting-edge IFE is a key focus

SAUDIA’s new lounge at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport

Malaga, Marrakech, Moscow, Seoul, Entebbe, Amsterdam, Chicago, and Mykonos.

Additionally, the Saudi national carrier plans to add extra flight frequencies and seats where necessary to cater to soaring demand.

CHAMPIONING KSA DESTINATIONS

The airline is also helping to highlight the country’s plethora of cultural and historical treasures with initiatives such as ‘Museum in the Sky’, a collaboration with AlUla.

This saw a SAUDIA flight from Riyadh to AlUla on November 4, 2021 transformed into a flying museum.

Throwing the spotlight on the significance of AlUla as a living museum, with just a fraction of archaeological sites identified currently being excavated, replicas of artefacts discovered by archaeologists at the destination were displayed on board.

SAUDIA has also launched a direct flight from Paris to AlUla, connecting the destination to a key source market, while its new IFE channel, Discover Saudi Arabia, features the Discovery Channel movie documentary, Architects of Ancient Arabia, telling the story of AlUla’s role in developing early human civilisation. Other initiatives include SAUDIA’s new lounge at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, the largest Skyteam lounge in the world, soon to showcase a selection of historical and cultural displays. It will also feature special Saudi culinary areas, some of which will be dedicated to local traditions around coffee and dates.

“With SAUDIA’s naturally generous philosophy starting from the moment passengers arrive at the airport and reflecting our responsibility to showcase the best of what Saudi Arabia has to offer the world, the lounge is designed to offer a rich sensory experience, with touchpoints involving sight, through interior design and the artwork; taste, through the best of Saudi cuisine; and traditional Saudi music,” says Captain Koshy

THE WINGS OF VISION 2030 ARE GREEN

While Saudi Arabia and its carrier forge ahead with ambitious plans for tourism growth, the kingdom

is just as aggressive in implementing a strategy for safeguarding a ‘green’ and sustainable future.

This was stressed by HRH Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman at the COP26 Summit in Glasgow last year where he announced kingdom’s net zero goal as part of the new ‘Saudi Green Initiative’.

SAUDIA is aligned to this vision and committed to decarbonisation, as well as transporting guests to a destination that is not only a sustainable tourism leader, but a trailblazer for regenerative tourism, with developments such as NEOM and the Red Sea Project setting new global benchmarks in this respect.

The airline recently announced plans to appoint a Vice President, Environment and Sustainability, with a view to unveiling 50 environmental and carbon reduction initiatives in 2022.

SAUDIA is also phasing out older aircraft, which burn more fuel, replacing them with next-generation aircraft with a lower carbon footprint per passenger.

Eliminating single-use plastics across the business is another target, and as Saudi Arabia looks to position itself as a renewable energy champion, the airline is looking at ways to introduce Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) into its operations. Sustainable practices will be crucial as airline fulfils its role as “the wings of Vision 2030” and looks to build on its position of strength as one of the world’s leading airlines.

Safety comes first at SAUDIA

“SAUDIA is aligned to this vision and committed to decarbonisation, as well as transporting guests to a destination that is not only a sustainable tourism leader, but a trailblazer for regenerative tourism”

When it comes to tourism icons, Diriyah will be to Saudi what the Acropolis is to Greece and the Colosseum is to Rome, says Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO, Diriyah Gate Development Authority

A global landmark in the making

Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) is responsible for the transformation of Saudi Arabia’s most important historical and cultural site, Diriyah, the birthplace of the First Saudi State and the ancestral home of the House of Saud.

DGDA is the guardian of a 194-sq.km land area and is currently transforming 11 sq.km as part of its US$50.6 billion gigaproject, which will re-establish Diriyah as the beating cultural heart of the kingdom

by creating a global gathering place where heritage and history is respected, protected, and cultivated, enabling it to become a leading destination worldwide.

Nestled around the jewel of the kingdom, the UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif, Diriyah holds an incredibly special place in the landscape of the Saudi Arabia’s projects, being the future tourism icon of the destination and synonymous with where the kingdom and wider Arabian Peninsula’s story began.

Built in the traditional Najdi architectural

Jerry Inzerillo

style, it will represent a brand-new lifestyle destination and experience for the kingdom and the wider region and will include a range of experiences for visitors and locals, from retail to hospitality, residential to fine dining, and cultural institutions to museums.

The development is one of the most complex globally, with the intention of creating the world’s largest cultural and heritage site, and one of the globe’s greatest gathering places, seamlessly integrating traditional Najdi architectural typologies alongside contemporary, luxury amenities across hotels, residences, offices, restaurants, retail and more.

DGDA is devoted to enabling the people of Diriyah to achieve their goals.

The project will celebrate the local community, showcasing social, cultural and historical achievements, connecting with the roots of the Saudi state and creating solid foundations on which to build the best possible future for that community. Ultimately, DGDA’s mission is to preserve, develop and celebrate, serving the community by delivering world-class services and experiences.

Here, DGDA Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo provides an update on the roll out of this special project.

Q: What recent progress has been made with the development of the Diriyah project?

DGDA is developing the project at pace, moving away from its initial inception and planning phase, and into its core development, design and delivery phase, and is on track to be in its full operational phase within three to four years. Demand is already strong, with DGDA having recently partnered with major global luxury and upper luxury hospitality brands.

Later this year, DGDA is opening its fine-dining offering at Bujairi Terrace, hosting a meticulously crafted mix, from Michelin-starred restaurants to global household names to Saudi brands offering authentic local cuisine.

From a world stage events and entertainment perspective, Diriyah has

also recently been host to the immensely successful Formula E race and Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale. Several key construction milestones have also been reached with our largest contract to date recently awarded, major contract awards for Diriyah Square’s forthcoming underground car park and more.

Q: What’s new in Diriyah, and what’s coming soon?

We are preparing to permanently open our UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif to the world later this year. This will be a major milestone for both Diriyah and the kingdom, as one of Saudi Arabia’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and as we begin to welcome guests wanting to learn more about Diriyah and its important place in the kingdom’s history and culture.

In tandem with the unveiling of AtTuraif will be the opening of our finedining district, Bujairi Terrace, which will bring some of the best global culinary brands to Diriyah and put them alongside Saudi Arabia’s best.

Hakkasan, Long Chim, Villa Mamas, Bruno, Café de L’Esplanade and many more will sit comfortably with superb

authentic local Saudi offerings like TAKYA and Sum + Things.

Q: What stands out as world-leading and cutting-edge in the development of Diriyah?

Diriyah will become a smart and sustainable city at its core. The traditional Najdi architecture, as the local vernacular architecture, is inherently sustainable. It is adapted to Saudi Arabia’s geography and climate and reflects the uniqueness of Arabian culture.

The characteristic of vernacular architecture uses the local resources and materials on construction techniques that address the local needs. Therefore, this type of building reflects the local traditions, history, culture, environment and climate.

The traditional Najdi buildings meet the local climate needs through passive ventilation systems and small apertures facing the outside of the buildings for thermal comfort; thick walls for thermal insulation; internal courtyards to enhance cooling and shading and narrow streets which greatly contribute to shading for pedestrians’ outdoor thermal comfort. Diriyah will become an innovative city that uses technology to improve the quality of life and city operations for its residents and visitors in a sustainable way, caring for and protecting the environment and natural, human and financial resources.

“DGDA’s mission is to preserve, develop and celebrate, serving the community by delivering world-class services and experiences”

Q: The development has already attracted big-name hospitality brands; what other international brands do you intend to bring on?

We have recently announced many of our world-class hospitality partners including Baccarat, Rosewood, Orient Express, Park Hyatt, Raffles, Six Senses, The Oberoi and many more of the best in the business as a part of our 38-brand hotel masterplan, with more names forthcoming across hospitality, F&B and retail soon.

Q: How have events such as the Formula E helped to put Diriyah on the tourism map and what is the scope for hosting other major events?

Events like Formula E are immensely important for us to achieve our goal of reestablishing Diriyah as a global gathering place. Fans of the sport came in droves to Diriyah to experience one of the world’s fastest-growing electric motor sports at our recent race which lit up the night sky around At-Turaif.

Looking to the future, Diriyah has the scope and ambition to host other major events, be they cultural such as concerts. or art festivals like the Diriyah Biennale, or sporting, like the recent bout between heavyweight boxers Andy Ruiz Jr. and Anthony Joshua.

Q: What is your long-term vision for Diriyah? What will it be famous for and why will people from around the world want to visit?

Diriyah has always been recognised as a cultural focal point for Saudis, and in time, this will broaden to global

recognition. Diriyah should be seen amongst its rightful competitive set of global masterpieces – it is to Saudi Arabia what the Acropolis is to Greece, or the Colosseum is to Rome. At-Turaif will soon be a global landmark, instantly recognisable and identifiable as one of the world’s great wonders.

At-Turaif has stood for almost three centuries and embodies the rich heritage the Saudi people have inherited. The UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as the centrepiece of our project and serves as the inspiration for all we are doing. Ultimately, Diriyah’s future is founded on its past. Its cultural revival is built on the foundations of its historic position celebrated as a city of knowledge, a global gathering place and a rich, cultural landscape. Diriyah’s history is one of leadership, vision, and statecraft. As the capital of the new state, Diriyah grew to become a cosmopolitan site of intellectual exchange and enquiry that attracted

visitors from across the world, and that is the state being restored today.

Q: How does Diriyah tick the UN's SDG boxes for sustainable development, and what global benchmarks will it set in this respect?

From the outset, DGDA has placed immense importance on sustainability standards. The authority is implementing its sustainability agenda through LEED and Mostadam accreditation and draws its inspiration from being a ’15-minute city’ –an urban planning model whereby residents can reach most daily necessities by walking or cycling.

DGDA’s smart cities and sustainability agenda impacts its full ecosystem across cultural heritage, water conservation, material impact reduction, climate change resilience, and energy efficiency.

Our vision for sustainability is to create a world-class, walkable destination for visitors and locals alike, renowned for being

“At-Turaif will soon be a global landmark, instantly recognisable and identifiable as one of the world’s great wonders”

resilient to climate change; promoting cultural heritage; ensuring a thriving, vibrant and healthy community; providing a high quality of life; and promoting equity. The use of locally sourced materials reduces the whole-life carbon emissions associated with the development, almost eliminating the transportation miles produced by material procurement and installation, while also promoting support for the local economy.

We are implementing unique Saudi cultural construction methods in our traditional Najdi buildings to meet the local climate needs.

For example, passive ventilation systems and small apertures facing the outside of the buildings keep people inside cool, thick walls maintain insulation, internal courtyards enhance cooling, and narrow streets contribute to shading for pedestrians outdoors.

DGDA surpasses environmental compliance on environmental and

sustainability initiatives by embedding international best practices, innovative technologies, and sustainability certification targets in all our projects.

We are continually enhancing our environmental performance and sustainability credentials at the community and construction levels.

Q: What will be Diriyah’s economic and social contribution to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia?

The Diriyah giga-project is part of Vision 2030, which is the far-reaching strategic blueprint to transform and modernise Saudi Arabia, creating new sources of revenue and jobs for the kingdom.

Tourism plays a major role in meeting the vision, with the giga-projects critical to raising tourism revenue from the current 3% to 10% of GDP by 2030.

While Diriyah will welcome tourists, it will also be a ’living city’, a place with a vibrant heart and modern infrastructure

Clockwise

DGDA is responsible for a 194 sq.km land area

DGDA has signed agreements with several leading hotel brands

placing the local community first and creating employment opportunities for Saudi nationals.

There will be education and medical infrastructure as part of the transformation, successfully raising standards of living for Saudi nationals as per the strategic goals of Vision 2030.

More than 55,000 jobs will be created, producing significant opportunities for Saudi Arabia’s young population, which will be the engine of growth as the kingdom moves into the future.

Through DGDA, investors can access new opportunities arising through the National Investment Strategy, such as new sector funds, the soon to be launched Special Economic Zones, new funding instruments and a range of incentives.

For international investors, this offers the chance to be a part of a cornerstone project of Vision 2030, which will create thousands of jobs and marks the beginning of the kingdom’s journey into a range of sectors.

from top left:

History in motion

Q: What recent progress has been made with the development of AlUla?

AlUla is an evolving destination that is nowhere near to reaching its full potential.

Phillip J. Jones, Chief Destination Marketing and Management

In October 2020, AlUla reopened its doors to visitors as a year-round destination, with key heritage sites visitors could access including Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising more than 100 well-preserved tombs with elaborate facades cut out of the sandstone outcrops surrounding the walled urban settlement; Dadan, one of the most developed 1st millennium BCE cities of the Arabian Peninsula; and Jabal Ikmah, often referred to as the ‘open-air Library’, offering insights to ancient beliefs, rituals and practices of every-day life.

AlUla Old Town opened to visitors for the first time in early 2021, with the refurbished Incense Road market hosting several local retailers, cafés and restaurants. It is now a must-visit destination.

In 2021, AlUla also added 96 rooms and

22 caravans to its total room capacity with the opening of Habitas AlUla.

The hotel offers an immersive experience where nature inspires creative expression, human connection and the pursuit of adventure. AlUla Airport has also started welcoming international flights with three regular services; two from Dubai, operated by flynas and flydubai, and another from Paris, operated by SAUDIA.

The destination has also become a hub for a wide selection of new experiences including those at our four core heritage sites, plus wellness and adventure activities like mountain biking, rock climbing, ziplining, hiking and more.

Lastly, AlUla has emerged as a gastronomic hotspot with more than 15 new restaurants opening in the last year, including farm-to-table concept Somewhere set in the oasis, and wellknown brands such as Annabel’s, Circolo and Maraya Social by Michelin-starred Chef Jason Atherton.

Officer, The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), provides insights into this awe-inspiring destination’s evolution

Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site

Q: The destination’s events scene is hotting up with the launch of AlUla Moments: tell us more AlUla Moments covers four unique festivals celebrating the heritage and the culture of AlUla and reviving its legacy as the crossroads of the ancient civilisations.

The four festivals are Winter at Tantora, the destination’s first musical and cultural festival, now in its third year; AlUla Arts Festival, which ran from February to March 2022, bringing together exhibitions and encounters created by a diverse array of local and international artistic talents in celebration of AlUla’s role as a cultural hub; AlUla Skies Festival, acknowledging the ancient relation between the sky and its inhabitants with distinguished activities including hot air balloon displays; and AlUla Wellness, a festival to promote holistic spiritual and physical health.

We are currently introducing AlUla as a hub for unique sports activities. We have already hosted the Extreme-E car racing, launched in April 2021; the Saudi Tour 2022 cycling event in February 2022; equestrian sporting events including The Endurance Cup 2022 and Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo 2022; and the EcoTrail AlUla running race. These activities will continue to be staged in AlUla.

Maraya – one of the world’s architectural marvels with 9,740 sqm of mirrors covering a cube-shaped structure reflecting the vast AlUla desert – is also hosting highprofile conferences and concerts and is one of the largest MICE venues in the region.

AlUla has also implemented a service improvement plan, enabling visitors able to provide immediate destination feedback via QR codes. The service enhancement team monitors responses and takes appropriate action.

Did you know?

Q: What’s new in AlUla and what’s coming soon?

AlJadidah Village is a new culture and dining destination on the edge of the AlUla Oasis and overlooks AlUla Old Town. It features five distinct squares: Art Square, Gathering Square, Muayada Square, Oasis Square and Qanat Square, each with their own unique atmosphere. Reasserting AlUla’s position as a centre of creativity and culture are the AlUla Design Gallery and ATHR Gallery AlUla. Both galleries, which are located in AlJadidah, showcase design projects and exhibitions and will soon host workshops and classes for residents and the visiting design community.

In terms of new accommodation options, Banyan Tree AlUla will open its doors soon, offering a luxurious hospitality experience in the heart of Wadi Ashar.

We are also on track to open a new eco-friendly boutique hotel in AlUla Old Town later this year; a new experience to immerse our visitors in a wholesome life of sustainable living.

Q: What stands out as world-leading in the development of AlUla?

AlUla’s Journey Through Time Masterplan (JTT MP1), launched by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Chairman of the Royal Commission for AlUla, last year, is a 15-year programme to responsibly develop the core historical area of AlUla.

It contributes to the advancement of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, opening a new chapter in the development of AlUla as a Living Museum while accelerating the growth of a diversified economy and vibrant community. JTT MP1 is underpinned by the AlUla Sustainability Charter, which sets out 12 framework principles guiding AlUla’s future development, with a focus on protection and preservation. The AlUla Sustainability Charter sets the ground for an innovative and integrated approach to sustainability.

Our roadmap encompasses Economic, Environmental and Social sustainability to move from responsible development to sustainable development.

This includes a zero-carbon policy supported by circular economy principles – net-carbon-neutral by 2035 for local emissions (excluding air travel and food imports) – and priorities such as increasing the share of renewables for water heating and in the power mix; increasing the amount of landscaping and land regeneration; reducing space cooling consumption and methods; and introducing cradle-to-cradle solutions to expand on the use, recovery and reuse of safe and healthy products and materials.

There are also specific resiliency policies to prepare for anticipated and unexpected human-made or natural threats to absorb impact, recover, and adapt. Policies relate

Mirrored venue Maraya

Maraya – translated from Arabic as mirrors – is located in Wadi Ashar, AlUla, and set a Guinness World Record for being the largest mirrored building in the world in 2019 with its 26-metre-high theatre.

AlJadidah Village at a glance

AlJadidah, adjacent to the recently re-invigorated AlUla Old Town, has been transformed into a pedestrian-only art, culture and dining destination. The compact and walkable zone, meaning ‘new town’, is a must-visit precinct in AlUla with a year-round offering of art curated attractions, galleries, entertainment, beauty and exciting new eateries. AlJadidah is centered around five distinct squares:

Muayada Square is where visitors can enjoy a diverse range of dining experiences at new and existing venues including Moon Shell, a vegan restaurant specialising in healthy brunch bowls and smoothies.

Oasis Square connects the new village with the old oasis and features a stage where musicians entertain the crowds. Italian restaurant Circolo is already becoming a hot favourite, as is the Nail Art Spa and the men's barber shop The Art of Shaving.

Art Square is home to the Athr & Design galleries and the exciting new seasonal activation of Cinema Al Housh, AlUla’s first arthouse cinema. Here movie-goers can choose from a curated selection of independent films from the Cannes and the Venice film festivals. The cinema will also show a selection of Saudi and Arabic films.

Design Square offers AlUla residents and visitors the opportunity to stock up on international designer goods and fashion brands. The AlUla Design Gallery is leasing out a space to the first ATHR art gallery outside of Jeddah, while the remaining space will celebrate design projects and host exhibitions, workshops and classes for residents and the visiting design community.

From top: Face Rock AlUla Oasis

Adventure activities include mountain biking at Hegra

to flood and water management, off-road and vegetation.

In addition, the G20 and the UN’s World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) worked with RCU to produce the AlUla Framework for Inclusive Community Development through Tourism, which was endorsed in the G20 Leaders’ Declaration at the Riyadh Summit. The framework provides a series of case studies on community inclusive tourism development projects from around the world.

The RCU case study outlines the role of the local community as both drivers and benefactors of tourism development.

Q: What has been the impact of new direct international flights to AlUla and what is the strategy for broadening connectivity?

AlUla is now a year-round destination with recently launched direct flights a real game-changer. Improved accessibility is not only crucial to attract more visitors, but for the destination’s economic and

social growth. The direct flights are important as they come from Dubai and Paris, both crucial markets with strong growth potential.

Q: What are the destination’s key source markets?

The GCC, US, Australia, France, Italy, Germany, the UK, China and India are key markets, as well as domestic tourism.

The Saudis have discovered their own country, with 50% of visitors to AlUla hailing from the kingdom. The UAE is second largest source market, while 12% of visitors are from France and Europe and 6% are from the US. We will welcome more than 200,000 visitors in the next two years. We have a limited inventory though because we don’t want to ruin the experience. We want to preserve and protect these sites for another 7,000 years, so we aim to attract high-end luxury visitors rather than mass tourism.

@Omar Alnahdi

Circolo restaurant, Aljadidah, AlUla

Remembering AlUla Moments 2021-2022

AlUla Moments took place from December 2021 to March 2022. Staged under the ‘Celebrate Every Moment’ banner, the new events brand hosted four unique festivals: Winter At Tantora returned after a year-long pause, and the ancient desert city welcomed AlUla Arts, AlUla Skies and AlUla Wellness festivals.

The calendar of events raised the bar for visitor experiences in the historic city of AlUla, celebrating the cultural heritage and extraordinary landscapes through a variety of events and activations and drawing an outstanding increase in the expected number of visitors.

More than 109,000 event tickets were sold across all activations, while the iconic mirrored Maraya hosted 11 concerts including appearances from Alicia Keys and Lionel Richie. AlUla airport also saw a major increase in passenger numbers from Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam, as well as Dubai and Paris, following the launch of direct routes from both.

AlUla Moments featured several unique events at the heritage sites and in nature reserves, including the popular Hegra Candlelit Classics, Symphony Under the Stars, the Ikmah Fashion Cavalry show with Dolce & Gabbana, and the Music of Ancient Eras.

Main sporting highlights included the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup 2022. Hosted for the third time, an international CEI2*120km endurance competition organised in cooperation with the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation (SAEF) covered 120km. Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo 2022 also returned for a second time while Polo lovers were treated to the first

Polo tournament to be held in the desert, with four players from the legendary La Dolfina Polo team leading one team each.

The Saudi Tour 2022 cycling race was brought to AlUla for the first time with cyclists challenged to a steep climb up to the picturesque viewpoint on the Harrat Uwayrid. The EcoTrail AlUla 2022 saw more than 950 participants running races of 80km, 50km, 25km, 10km, or a 5km sunset race, while young athletes had the opportunity to participate in the Kids Race for the first time.

AlUla Moments also introduced adventure activities like abseiling, hiking trails, a canyon hike, a bike hub, cycling trail, zipline, gravity cart experience, rock climbing and dune buggies tours.

Culinary experiences were delivered by new restaurants including the Greek eatery OKTO, Tama at Habitas AlUla, Le Maschou, vegan venue Moon Shell, Ital-

ian restaurant Circolo and world-famous SALT and SOMEWHERE.

Three new festivals

The very first AlUla Skies festival featured hot air balloon rides and the night hot air balloon Glow Show, which broke the Guinness World Records™ title for the World’s Largest Hot Air Balloon Glow Show, featuring 142 brightly-lit balloons streamlined above the ancient site, illuminating the rock-strewn desert landscape.

The festival also featured ‘Constellations’, an activation for stargazing with more than 2,000 drones highlighting constellations in a high-tech show

At the first AlUla Wellness festival, The Five Senses Sanctuary offered guests treatments, cultural shopping experiences, talks and yoga classes; Habitas launched its Thuraya wellness centre; and PULSE studio brought its Fitness X

Music pop-up experience to AlUla Oasis. AlUla Arts festival featured the blockbuster site-responsive Desert X AlUla 2022. The second edition of the stunning exhibition, set in a desert valley, included artworks from local and international artists under the theme of ‘Sarab’.

The artworks produced in the first AlUla Artist Residency were displayed between Mabiti and AlUla’s palm groves; Barzan Living Gardens highlighted the relationship between people and nature, between community and visitors; The Cortona on the Move AlUla photography festival brought talks and screenings on the art of narrative photography to newly opened arts hub AlJadidah; and ‘What Lies Within’ treated visitors to Maraya with an emotive and star-studded selection of artworks from the collection of the Saudi art collector Basma AlSulaiman. www.experiencealula.com

Q: How is AlUla tapping into traveller demand for new and unique tourism experiences?

We are continuously working to improve the tourist experience in AlUla by introducing new leisure and adventure activities, hotels and F&B outlets and by enhancing the quality of the services that we provide.

At the same time, we are preserving AlUla's extraordinary human and natural heritage, as well as the natural environment in the city.

Q: What’s your long-term vision for AlUla – what will it be famous for and why will people want to visit?

Today, thanks to the efforts and vision of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s and the RCU, AlUla is a living museum.

The city is open for tourists with a passion for history, architecture, archaeology and art.

With a UNESCO World Heritage site, a rich history with relics that date back 7,000 years and many international art

exhibitions, a visit to AlUla is enchanting and captivating. It is the world's masterpiece that all will want to visit.

Q: What will be AlUla’s economic and social contribution to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia?

The Journey Through Time Masterplan for AlUla is projected to contribute SAR 120 billion (US$32 billion) to the national GDP, create 38,000 new jobs and almost triple the regional population to 130,000 by 2035.

The view from Greek restaurant OKTO

Cruise Saudi A bridge to Arabia

Cruise Saudi is opening a new gateway for travellers looking to explore Saudi Arabia, explains CEO Lars Clasen

Cruise Saudi is introducing a new way to explore Saudi’s diverse landscapes, offering avid travellers and tourists a chance to learn about the country’s rich history and diverse culture. Through the development of a cruise industry, Cruise Saudi is establishing a new pillar to the country’s rapidly growing tourism industry, enabling visitors to explore the wonders of Saudi by sea.

With around 250 million people in Europe, Asia and Africa within a three-hour flight from the Red Sea or Arabian Gulf, Cruise Saudi is well placed to develop the

area into a thriving regional hub for cruising for both international and local guests.

With the ambition of building a thriving sustainable cruise industry, Cruise Saudi has started its journey of bringing together local and global partners to develop an industry that is fully integrated, world-class and sustainable.

The company is aligned with Vision 2030 and national tourism goals for Saudi’s rapidly expanding tourism industry.

With an operational strategy founded on sustainability and environmental consciousness, Cruise Saudi is opening up new opportunities for tourism, business, entrepreneurship, and culture along the country’s pristine coastline.

The entity is focused on deepening and expanding its relationships within the cruise industry and welcoming more partners to Saudi shores, as Cruise Saudi CEO Lars Clasen explains here.

Q: What is Cruise Saudi’s mandate?

Cruise Saudi was launched in January 2021 during the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh with the goal of developing a fully integrated cruise industry in Saudi. Our aim is to work with partners to develop all aspects of a brand-new industry including attracting international cruise

Lars Clasen

MSC Bellissima – Cruise Saudi has a five-year commercial agreement in place with MSC Cruises

lines, port development at key Saudi destinations, destination experience coordination, marketing, and developing local talent. We seek to establish cruising as a new economic pillar, another growth engine, and an experiential dimension to the country’s flourishing tourism industry in line with Vision 2030 – the Saudi leadership’s strategic framework to transform and diversify the economy by developing several new sectors.

Our ultimate goal is to establish the Red Sea, the Arabian Gulf and Saudi Arabia as a cruising hub, echoing the history of the region as a maritime hub, with Cruise Saudi as the driving force behind developing a world-class sustainable cruise offering.

Q: What have been Cruise Saudi’s achievements to date?

Before the summer of 2020, no cruise ship had ever homeported in Saudi, and we had a handful of transit calls over the last 30 years.

Since then, we have successfully operated a summer and a winter cruise season and we plan to significantly sustain and grow this in the future. The recent end of the winter season brings the total cruise guests welcomed to Saudi to around

50,000 in 2021-2022, including 30% international guests from more than 80 countries around the world.

We have worked with our local partners and the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) to convert existing commercial ports and dedicated berths and facilities to serve the largest cruise lines and their guests.

We have established strategic agreements with international cruise lines who have brought their ships to sail in Saudi waters, as well as with local partners around the country to develop destination experiences for cruise passengers visiting Saudi by sea. We are also committed to providing training opportunities for Saudi youth to equip them with the necessary skills to operate a truly world class cruise industry in Saudi.

As a newcomer to the cruise industry, we have been very warmly welcomed by other members, and we are keen to develop more ties to the global cruise industry by representing Saudi and the region at major industry events, conferences, and tradeshows such as the Arabian Travel Market and others. We have also become proud members of three prestigious industry bodies – the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), MedCruise and the Cruise Line International Association.

Our achievements thus far have been recognised by the global cruise and tourism industry having been listed as a finalist for Destination of the Year at the 2021, Seatrade Cruise Global Awards, finalist for Launch of the Year and Best B2B PR Campaign at the PRCA MENA Awards. We were honoured to win Best New Business Model at the 2021 Tourism Innovation Summit Awards and Best Business to Business Campaign: Launching Cruise Saudi at the 2021 MEPRA (Middle East Public Relations Association) Awards.

Q. How large is Saudi Arabia’s cruise market?

There are more than 100 ships that sail through the Red Sea area annually, and prior to the establishment of Cruise Saudi, they did not have the opportunity to stop to discover Saudi. This demonstrates to us that there is significant potential for cruising in Saudi, and this is what we want to harness as we continue to build the industry in the country.

We are still in the early stages of establishing the industry

IN NUMBERS

50,000

Cruise guests 2021-2022

30% International cruise guests from 80+countries

100+ Ships sail through the Red Sea area annually

6 Cruise ports planned for KSA

1.3mn

Cruise visitor target for 2035

$6bn

Cruise contribution by 2035

50,000

Direct and indirect jobs to be created by cruise by 2035

NEOM will be a Red Sea destination highlight

Hegra is one of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites cruise passengers can explore

but have plans to continue to expand in the coming months and years. In the summer of 2020, prior to our official launch, and in the middle of the pandemic, we ran a trial season to test the waters of launching a cruise industry in Saudi.

When there were very few other cruise ships sailing, we brought Silver Spirit to Saudi for the first time. Our trial season was a success, not only in terms of highlighting to us the viability of the industry in Saudi, but also demonstrating our ability to safely conduct cruise operations during the pandemic. Since then, we have welcomed several ships from major international cruise lines who have included ports in Saudi as a call on their itineraries. We believe that with the right partners, up to a million passengers will cruise the Red Sea annually over the next couple of decades.

Q: What have been Cruise Saudi’s recent wins in terms of attracting more cruise business to the Gulf?

Agreements with major international cruise lines have been vital to our success and our aim is to continue to open up the Saudi waters in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf to encourage more ships to include destinations in Saudi on their itineraries.

We have a five-year commercial agreement in place with MSC – the third largest

cruise line in the world – to bring its ships to sail in Saudi waters and have also welcomed ships from other cruise lines since launching. Cruise Saudi and Aman Group recently announced Project Sama – a joint venture to build a first-ofits-kind luxury yacht to sail Saudi and worldwide waters by 2025. This will bring the world’s most luxurious cruise yacht to the Red Sea waters.

Cruising is a relatively new industry in Saudi and of course, the pandemic has affected tourists globally. But given the success of our last two seasons and the effective measures we took to combat COVID-19, we expect an increase in both local and international tourists as well as cruise lines for our upcoming seasons.

We are also in talks with more international cruise lines to add Saudi ports to their cruise expeditions and will continue to open up the Saudi shores to the whole industry.

Q: What new infrastructure is planned to facilitate the growth of Saudi Arabia’s cruise industry?

The development of ports and destinations across the country is integral to the growth of the newly formed cruise industry and will enable more cruise lines as well as cruise passengers to come to Saudi. We are working with The Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) to develop the infrastructure required to facilitate cruising at existing ports with a strong emphasis on sustainability.

In addition to the cruise passenger terminal constructed at Jeddah Islamic Port, both Yanbu (the second largest city after Jeddah on Saudi’s Red Sea coast) and Dammam in the Eastern Province, have been equipped with infrastructure needed to welcome cruise ships to their ports. Our aim is to develop up to six ports around the country to enable cruise passengers to explore all over.

Q. What impact will Saudi’s new mega tourism destinations have on the cruise sector?

Saudi is currently undergoing a period of transformation,

developing several sectors including tourism in line with Vision 2030 – the Saudi leadership’s plan to diversify the economy. This includes the development of new destinations such as the Red Sea Development Project and AMAALA, the Royal Commission for AlUla and NEOM. We want to connect Saudi through cruise, opening a new gateway between destinations around the country, and offering a new way to experience all that it has to explore. We are now able to include three of Saudi’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites on cruise itineraries for the first time – these are Hegra, AlUla, Jeddah Old Town, and AlAhsa Oasis.

Q: What unique land experiences will woo cruise passengers?

Saudi is a new and exciting tourism destination. Over the centuries, Saudi has played an important role in history as an ancient trade centre and as the birthplace of Islam.

The country is blessed with many different assets, a rich historical heritage, diverse culture, and unspoiled natural beauty, from vast deserts to the pristine waters of the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf.

Saudi has rapidly been expanding its tourism presence and offering, with six World Heritage sites recognised by UNESCO since 2018 and many international events hosted in cities around the country including the Formula One Grand Prix in Jeddah, MDL Beast’s Soundstorm and the Red Sea International Film Festival.

Jeddah’s port – where two ships have been homeporting during the 2021/2022 winter and summer Seasons – has long served as a gateway to welcome visitors to Saudi Strategically located along ancient trading routes, Jeddah has an important maritime history as an international hub for merchant travellers transporting goods from around the world. As the commercial centre of Saudi, Jeddah is a cultural crossroads and a vibrant hub combining heritage and modernity.

Yanbu is another unique destination with a history dating back at least 2,500 years, when it was a staging point on the spice and incense route from Yemen to Egypt and the Mediterranean region. Visitors can explore the unique Hijazi architecture style of Yanbu old town that is found along the Arabian coast of the Red Sea, similar to that of Jeddah’s AlBalad district.

Q: What’s the long-term plan for Saudi Arabia’s cruise sector?

Our role is to bring together partners – local and international – to develop a fully coordinated cruise industry in Saudi, from the cruise lines to the destination experience coordination to the airlift with SAUDIA, our national air carrier. We aim to connect all the dots and build a robust industry benefitting all partners. In a short amount of time, we developed the required infrastructure for the cruise industry, established partnerships with international cruise lines, and welcomed around 50,000 guests to date. Our long-term aim is to now amplify all of these aspects and develop Saudi into a world-class cruise destination.

Q: What is Cruise Saudi’s economic and social contribution to KSA?

We want to offer a high-quality experience to all cruise guests, while developing a strong local workforce and providing economic and training opportunities within Saudi.

With an operational strategy founded on sustainability and environmental consciousness, the company is opening new opportunities for tourism, business, entrepreneurship and culture along the country’s pristine coastline.

This entirely new industry will play a key role in the development of tourism, in line with Vision 2030, presenting new opportunities to citizens.

With the aim to bring 1.3 million visitors to Saudi via cruise by 2035, Cruise Saudi will contribute to Vision 2030 goals, which include seeing 10% of GDP coming from tourism and attracting 100 million visits. By 2035, the Saudi cruise industry aims to deliver socioeconomic benefits of US$6 billion.

Other benefits of cruise tourism include raising the profile of Saudi in general and as a cruise destination, promoting the preservation of natural and historical sites and landmarks as well as developing skills, job opportunities, and infrastructure at every touch point.

Through our ongoing and upcoming training programmes, we aim to equip the future workforce with the required skills and practical experience to operate the industry, in line with our plan to create 50,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2035.

We are collaborating with King Abdulaziz University and Prince Mugrin University to scout and develop young cruise industry professionals to be a part of our journey.

We are also working with the Ministry of Tourism and the Saudi Tourist Guide Association to create the first generation of cruise-specific tour guides; as well as the Culinary Arts Commission to establish a programme that integrates Saudi cuisine into the cruise guest experience through training Saudi chefs aboard the cruise ships, and training tour guides specialized in culinary arts.

Cruise Saudi offers a memorable, unique and enriched experience to not just international guests but also local tourists to discover and explore the untapped beauty and hidden gems of Saudi.

Jeddah Waterfront

The kingdom’s tourism champion

Seera Group, a multi-faceted travel company, is synonymous with Saudi Arabia’s tourism transformation, says CEO Majed Alnefaie

Seera is a leading provider of diverse travel services in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Its portfolio of technology powered solutions for consumers, businesses, government partners and pilgrims provide opportunities to explore the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and to travel across the region and beyond. Its businesses include Almosafer, a travel brand catering to consumer, corporate, government and VIP travellers; the Lumi car rental and leasing brand; the Discover Saudi integrated destination management company; Mawasim, a wholesale tour operator for Hajj and Umrah; and Portman Travel Group – UK travel management for luxury, corporate, athletes and sports clubs. Here, Majed Alnefaie, CEO, Seera Group, explains how 2021 was a transformational year for the company, paving the way for success in 2022 as the company cements its status as the go-to company for the kingdom’s travel and tourism sector, contributing to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

Q: What have been the Seera Group’s key achievements over the past year?

In 2021, we pursued opportunities to leverage existing assets to drive maximum value. The group also spent time and resources on gaining sharp insights to better understand and serve travellers with tailored products and solutions post pandemic. Domestic leisure travel has grown to become a significant part of our business and will remain a key focus area since Saudi Arabia is the largest GCC market and our portfolio of businesses meet this demand.

Seera Group has also worked tirelessly with partners, suppliers and government stakeholders to

facilitate the resumption of international travel and several projects were launched to support travel’s rebound in 2022.

Under our travel business, we launched Almosafer Chalets+ to provide a B2C marketplace for alternative accommodation that's in demand, including chalets, farms, villas and istirahas, significantly enhancing our service and product offerings.

We supported some of the biggest entertainment and government events in the kingdom, including Formula E and Dakar Rally, with Discover Saudi providing travel arrangements and ancillary services. Discover Saudi launched its online distribution platform that acts as a Saudi content intermediary for flights and hotels via API integrations with travel partners.

We also launched a new mobile application for Lumi, our car rental business, which cuts down the pick-up times from 15 minutes to less than five minutes, and launched our Harley Davidson bike rentals, catering to a growing number of bike aficionados.

We have also seen significant growth across the vast majority of our portfolio verticals, accelerated by the resumption of travel and tourism. We made key strategic partnerships, signing agreements with

Top: Flight bookings to Taif have doubled

Tourism Development Fund (TDF), MOMRAH, and AMANA Al Baha to develop the Clarion Al Baha Resort; and signed a joint venture agreement with AlUla Development Company (UDC) to develop a Clarion hotel. We also joined hands with Princess Noura Bint Abdulrahman University to provide training courses to Travel and Tourism Management students.

The past year has been transformational for Seera and we worked tirelessly to overcome the challenges that have come our way, enabling us to step into 2022 stronger and better positioned.

Q: What are the top travel trends you are witnessing?

The first quarter of 2022 has shown us one trend quite distinctly – the appetite for travel is bigger than ever.

Our consumer platforms witnessed an increase in flight bookings of more than 70% during this period compared to Q1 2019, which was the strongest year overall pre-pandemic. However, even with international travel resumed, domestic hotel bookings comprised around 40% of total bookings in Q1 2022.

In terms of inbound, we have seen increased interest in destinations across the kingdom and with the easing of travel restrictions for Hajj and Umrah, we have also seen a surge in interest for our Umrah+ packages whereby pilgrims are combining Umrah with leisure trips. Overall, we are very confident that 2022 will be a successful year for the region’s travel industry. This is already indicated by the growth of international travel bookings in Q1 2022, which are 117% higher than the same period in 2021.

Our recent Almosafer consumer booking data reveals consumer behaviour has changed. People remain slightly cautious when booking their trips leading to shorter booking windows of 10 days in 2022 compared to 18 days in 2019. Travellers are also taking shorter trips, with the average length of stays in hotels lasting 2.9 days in 2022 compared to 3.25 days in 2019, which may be attributed, at least in part, to a rising trend of people taking more frequent but shorter trips.

Q: Which destinations are growing in popularity in Saudi Arabia?

Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam remain among the most popular destinations due to their flourishing events scene and lively cultural attractions, Almosafer consumer booking data reveals.

With the lifting of restrictions on international pilgrims, we have seen a huge surge in interest in the two Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah

from people seeking to perform Umrah, especially from new feeder source markets in Central Asia.

Our data also reveals the rising stars of the kingdom – those where flights and hotels bookings are fast growing in Q1 2022 compared to Q1 2019. We have seen almost double the number of flight bookings for Taif, known for its fragrant roses; triple the number of hotel bookings in Jizan, gateway to Farasan Islands; and an increase of 63% in hotel bookings in Al Khobar, an art and culture powerhouse. AlUla has been of particular rising interest to inbound and domestic travellers as the home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and prestigious events.

Q: What is your growth strategy?

Almosafer will continue to consolidate its position as the leading omni-channel travel brand in the region for consumer, corporate and government, and VIP travel.

In the consumer segment, we are the largest consumer brand in the kingdom and Kuwait and a strong player in the UAE, and we will work to further grow our market share across these and other markets, including Bahrain.

To fulfil our vision of becoming a full travel journey companion, we have introduced differentiated products.

We are expanding our Chalets+ marketplace as there is a huge opportunity in the domestic alternative accommodation space.

Our joint venture with travel activities and services booking platform Klook will create a one-stop shop digital platform for activities, tours, and events across

IN NUMBERS

GROUP

3,700 employees across 7 locations

1mn+ hotels and 400+ airlines available across the Seera portfolio

5 businesses

ALMOSAFER

6mn room nights booked since 2018

5mn app downloads

45 and counting retail stores

6mn passengers on 10mn+ flight segments since 2018

1mn+ social media followers

2.5mn+ registered customers LUMI

17,500+ vehicles DISCOVER SAUDI

20,000 tourists brought to the kingdom since 2019

Saudi Arabia. Under Almosafer, we are also pursuing fintech opportunities such as instant financing (buy now, pay later) to capture more customer segments and boost our average order value.

Furthermore, we will be supporting the Saudi Tourism Authority and the kingdom’s tourism agenda to further develop outbound, inbound and domestic tourism, starting with human capital development via our Almosafer Academy. In terms of the corporate and government and VIP segments, we will be rolling out Almosafer Concierge to cater to VIP clients in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain.

Turning to Discover Saudi, in line with KSA's ambitious Vision 2030 tourism targets to attract 100 million visitors annually by 2030, we want to become the primary destination management company for inbound tourism.

We are actively promoting Saudi Arabia, particularly to travel agents, in order to build on our success of bringing in around 20,000 tourists since 2019.

We seek to onboard more agents to our online distribution portal, the go-to platform for Saudi products and services including flights, hotels and other services, which utilises API integrations to distribute travel content at scale.

For our MICE activities, we want to strengthen our position as the destination management company of choice for largescale travel support. There is huge potential for the car rental industry and Lumi is growing at immense speed. Backed by a solid pipeline of long-term lease contracts, we are positioning Lumi as an innovator and disruptor in the industry with a digitalfirst approach across our distributed rental network with remote vehicle monitoring and control. We are also expanding our luxury fleet offering with Harley Davidson bike rentals across the kingdom.

With the lifting of restrictions on Hajj and Umrah travel for international pilgrims, Mawasim will be catering to the rising demand and capitalising on new and upcoming source markets, backed by its endto-end travel services and access to limited inventory in Makkah and Madinah.

Seera has one main goal: to maintain and further grow its position as the national champion and one of the key investors and enablers of Vision 2030’s tourism agenda. Seera has long been synonymous with the kingdom’s transformational journey and we will continue to drive the tourism agenda forward as an investor and enabler for some

of the most innovative and aspirational businesses in the market.

Q: How does Seera Group contribute to the growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry?

The growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry can be attributed to the efforts of the entire travel and tourism ecosystem in promoting the kingdom as the destination of choice, in line with Vision 2030. The tourism industry has grown hand in hand with the entertainment industry.

The explosion of entertainment and sports events such as Riyadh Season and F1, has given a significant boost to domestic and inbound tourism.

The reopening of Umrah travel has also kick-started religious tourism once again. Major international hotel chains have recognised the opportunities in Saudi Arabia, and have opened, or committed to opening, hotels across the country.

While there is considerable growth in the number of hotels catering to the highend market, the mid-market sector is also growing, in part due to increasing demand from Hajj and Umrah travellers coming from source markets that are not luxury driven. Domestic tourism is also driving the demand for mid-market hotels as an increasing number of people travel within the country for events such as music festivals and are seeking basic amenities as opposed to a luxury experience.

We are capitalising on this demand, having signed numerous partnerships to build new hotels in AlUla and in Al Baha which will be managed by Choice Hotels Middle East (CHME), the master developer and operator of Choice Hotels, while also further

expanding our own portfolio of properties in the kingdom.

Almost three years since the launch of Saudi Arabia’s tourist visa, the kingdom remains unexplored for many due to the global pandemic. Destination management companies (DMCs) are playing a huge role, not only in driving inbound tourism, but also in creating knowledge about the destination, educating travel agents on the culture and attractions of the country.

Discover Saudi is going above and beyond the remit of a general DMC, not only connecting with international source markets to drive inbound tourism, but also supporting MICE activities in the kingdom, thereby bolstering entertainment industry and infrastructure development.

The growing demand for car rentals is due to multiple factors: women have been permitted to drive, inbound and domestic tourism is flourishing and people are keen to explore the many events happening across our kingdom, or to discover the vast leisure tourism offering across the country.

Car rentals additionally provide people with a mode of transport to explore the country and attend events domestically.

Seera Group is the go-to company for the kingdom’s travel and tourism sector, contributing to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. From creating digital platforms that connect consumers with a wide range of services and products and providing logistical support for major events, to developing human capital with dedicated training programmes and educating an international audience on the kingdom’s incredible tourism attractions, the group has made its mark on Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry and will continue to do so in the future.

The fast increase in pet adoptions is paired with a habit of having pets as daily companions. Rabbits are a recent new breed of pet flown by VistaJet, and while dogs continue to make up the majority of animal passengers, the number of cats spiked 357% from 2019 to 2020”

MATTEO ATTI EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING AND INNOVATION, VISTAJET

The five mostsearched‘bucket-list’ experiences?

1.Visiting the Burj Khalifa, Dubai

2 Sailing around the Statue of Liberty, New York

3. Hiking to Mount Everest Base Camp, Nepal

4.Cruising the River Nile, Egypt

5.Going to the top of the Eiffel Tower, Paris and share their discoveries with the world.

Image: Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET); sources: GWI, Hilton Unforgettable Travel, VistaJet

The Burj Khalifa

20.9%

The average annual growth rate of wellness tourism from 2020-2025

7/10

Business travellers aged 25 to 30 want to extend work trips for mini vacations

Industry Trends

ON TREND

Top trends shaping the industry in 2022

THE SPLURGE-CATION

If 2021 was about domestic travel, 2022 is the year of the bucket-list trip. “There’s a new sense of urgency” to travel, says Stephanie Papaioannou, a vice president at Abercrombie & Kent, speaking to CNBC. “Guests feel they have lost two years, and older clients are concerned about having fewer healthy years left to travel.”

Expedia named 2022 the year of the GOAT – the Greatest of All Trips. In a survey of 12,000 travellers in 12 countries, the online travel giant found 65% of respondents were planning to “go big” on their next trip.

“After cancelled trips and postponed celebrations, travellers are ready to make up for lost time and go big to put themselves first and get the GOAT they deserve,” says Expedia.

From indulging in luxurious experiences (15%), to upgrading on

rooms or flights (16%) to visiting a bucket-list destination (32%), 2022 is all about the splurge-cation.

Travellers between the ages of 18 and 34 are the most likely to go big, Expedia found (80% compared to 56% of travellers over the age of 50), while Gen-X travellers are the most likely to flash the cash at a high-end restaurant (18% compared to 16% overall).

Unique experiences remain high priority, whether it’s a helicopter flight over the Dutch tulip fields, a private Vatican tour, a drive around Tuscany in a luxury sports car, or the all-time favourite – the chance to see the ‘Big 5’ in Africa.

A survey of leading hospitality chiefs confirms this, with bucket-list travel and one-off experiences identified as the number one hotel guest trend for 2022 by CEOs of hotel brand partners in the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA).

Naladhu Private Island Maldives offers total resort buyouts

Unique travel experiences are trending in 2022

Almost 73% of hotel chiefs GHA surveyed said they were targeting this sector trend with substantial sales and marketing activity. They also flagged up a surge in bookings for villas and suites, dominated by family group travel, indicating that guests were making up for lost time during the pandemic and prioritising reunions and vacations with loved ones by supersizing their holiday. Some guests are taking it a step further, opting for a resort buyout to celebrate weddings and special occasions, with the Indian Ocean region a definite hotspot.

“It’s also clear that travellers will continue to prioritise responsible travel options this year,” says GHA, with 59% of CEOs surveyed dedicating sales and marketing efforts to promoting hotel sustainability credentials to planet and community conscious guests.

PET-FRIENDLY TRAVEL

The pet-friendly travel trend took off in 2021, and is continuing in 2022, with airlines, hotels, and even tourism destinations opening their doors to our four-legged friends. A study by Condor Ferries conducted last year revealed 53% of travellers take holidays with their pets, and two million domestic animals board commercial flights each year, and these figures are set to rise given the number of pets bought or adopted during the pandemic. In the US alone, more than 23 million American households — nearly one in five nationwide — adopted a pet during the pandemic, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Even President Biden adopted a new dog, Commander. Global business aviation company VistaJet launched its VistaPet programme in 2019 following a 104% increase in the number of animals that had flown with the company from 2017 to 2019. This growing trend saw the VistaPet roll out enhanced crew training for pet health and care in September 2021 (pictured).

According to VistaJet Executive Vice President of Marketing and Innovation, Matteo Atti, rabbits are a recent new breed of pet

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

Amadeus witnessed substantial increases in searches for travel to “epic destinations or experiences” in 2021 and expects this trend to continue. Searches for Tanzania, where travellers can see the Big Five in the wild, shot up 36% year on year (from 2020 to 2021), bookings to the Peruvian cities of Lima and Cusco, near Machu Pichu, increased almost 50%, and flights to Petra in Jordan (pictured), of Indiana Jones fame, were up 22%. “All of these signs suggest this trend will continue to grow, with the Indian Ocean islands and even Antarctica showing increased demand for travel,” says Amadeus.

flown by the company and while most animal passengers are dogs, the number of cats travelling spiked 357% from 2019 to 2020.

In the Gulf, UAE carrier Etihad Airways now allows passengers to bring cats and small dogs into the cabin for a fee, based on their cabin baggage allowance and assuming all travel requirements are met.

The rule, introduced in January 2022, applies to cats and dogs that are at least 16 weeks old and weigh no more than 8kg, including their carrier.

Ras Al Khaimah is taking it a step further with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) recently introducing Ras Al-K9, a pet-friendly programme running across 25 hotels, restaurants, pet friendly-festivals, outdoor parks and beaches in the northern emirate.

RAKTDA CEO Raki Philips says RAK is the perfect destination for exploring the great outdoors with dogs. From its “spectacular wadi walks and mountain hikes on Jebel Jais to chilled out beachside café lunches, desert adventures and overnight stays” there is plenty to keep four-legged friends occupied, he says. “We understand how hard it can be to leave a beloved pet at home while on holiday, so we have made it as easy as possible for guests to bring their pawsome family members with them,” Philips adds.

Pet-friendly hotels in the emirate include Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort, which recently launched dog-friendly rooms featuring direct access to a 500m-long private back beach area and a special ‘Bone Appetit’ room service menu, while BM Beach Resort has reserved a block of 48 chalets for dogs and their owners, as well as an outdoor and beach area. Globally, hotel brands known for their pet-friendly policies and services include Fairmont, Langham Hotels & Resorts and Hilton brands Canopy by Hilton, Homewood Suites and Home2Suites by Hilton. Hilton booking data from 2021 reveals the “petfriendly” booking filter was the third most used search filter on Hilton.com.

BLEISURE GOES BIG

The way we work has changed and so, therefore has business travel, says Amadeus. Nearly 40% of the US workforce can now work from anywhere, and in other countries, that number is even higher. Some companies, like Spotify for example, have announced that staff will permanently work from home. “But working from home provides even more

PAMPERED POOCHES

At The Langham, Hong Kong, guests can bring their pet to the hotel for a supplement of HK$400 ($51) per pet per night, which includes The Langham’s signature pink pet food bowl, plush bed and a map of pet-friendly walking paths near The Langham, Hong Kong to keep the ‘fur babies’ entertained, comfortable and happy throughout the entire stay. Max. weight for each pet is 15kg. A special pet in-room dining menu is available for furry guests.

incentive for employees to meet in person, with colleagues, and clients,” says Amadeus. “Videoconferencing works well, but nothing replaces a face-to-face meeting.”

The tech firm’s data reveals business travel

Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET)

Dubai’s virtual working programme launched in 2021

in on people’s minds, with 72% of business travellers eager to travel this year, while the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) in its BTI Outlook – Annual Global Report and Forecast predicts business travel spend to rebound to 2019 levels as early as this year.

The report predicts a full recovery in 2024, ending the year on pace with the 2019 prepandemic spend of $1.4 trillion, and a year sooner than previously forecast.

While business travel is on the up, it’s been re-jigged and blended with leisure, given the new fluidity of work-life balance.

Corporate travellers and those attending business events are making the most of their trips by exploring the destination they visit after hours, or by tagging on a few days of extra leisure time.

Best-in-class employers are taking a fresh look at their travel policies and looking for ways to make travel less stressful and more efficient with expense-free mobile travel payments. Bloomberg has even had a rethink about what constitutes business travel, offering its 20,000 global employees a $75 daily commuting allowance, while others are incentivising their employees – and taking care of their wellbeing – by offering them ‘bleisure’ and ‘workcation’ trips.

Commute-and-stays are also becoming big, according to a new report by Accor – giving rise to a new kind of mid-week staycation.

Many travellers are taking it one step further, opting to relocate to another

Business travel is booming

destination for a few weeks, months, or longer, bringing their families with them.

Destinations like Dubai have been quick to respond, launching a highly successful virtual working programme. It is estimated that 16% of companies worldwide are now fully remote according to Owl Labs and since 2009, the number of people who work from home has risen 159% (Global Workplace Analytics).

fully integrative wellness and medical retreat in Bangkok

ME BUSINESS TRAVEL SPEND ON THE RISE

Business travel expenditure in the Middle East is forecast to rise by 32% this year, following a predicted 49% increase in 2021, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Interestingly, the increase in business spending for the full year is expected to have outpaced spending on leisure travel by 13%, 10% and 1% in the Middle East, Europe and Africa respectively.

TRAVELLING ‘WELL’

The wellness tourism sector is experiencing a massive rebound, according to a December 2021 report by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI). While the industry took a massive hit during the pandemic, with its global value dropping 39.5% from $720.4 billion to $435.7 billion between 2019 and 2020 (versus 43% for all tourism), it’s bouncing back at an astonishing rate.

GWI forecasts the average annual growth rate of wellness tourism at 20.9% from 2020 to 2025, outpacing the trajectory of every other sector of the wellness economy (including personal care and beauty, spas, and wellness real estate, to name just a few).

Notably, the expansion of the entire wellness economy is tracking to surpass that of global GDP to the tune of 9.9% versus 7.3% respectively over the same period, the report reveals.

As a result of the pandemic, consumers are increasingly aware that all aspects of their

The new RAKxa

POST-PANDEMIC TRAVELLERS ARE READY FOR ADVENTURE AND ENGAGEMENT

Intention is the future of travel in 2022, says the Global Wellness Summit: “Social indicators such as the ‘great resignation’, record retirements and global nomadism reveal profound commitments to work/life balance and personal growth and happiness. To meet these new demands, the travel industry is rolling out the welcome mat for these new intentional travellers with the invitation: Seekers, welcome. This trend explores how the newest travel experiences tap into a sense of purpose and a desire to grow creatively and intellectually: nature as a source of healing and awe, the surge in Indigenous travel experiences, the rise of farm-wellness resorts where people learn to grow food, more art classes, and giving back to academia in citizen science programmes.”

lives – where they live; how they work; what they eat; and how they exercise, socialise and travel – impact their health outcomes, mental resilience, and overall sense of wellbeing.

With the acknowledgement that self-care is essential for our physical and mental health, the wellness tourism, spa, and thermal/ mineral springs sectors can leverage this overriding trend says the GWI report.

“Reframing self-care through a mental wellness lens will create many new opportunities,” it notes.

“The hunger for touch, for human connections, for travel, for nature, and for wellness experiences is intense after social distancing, quarantining, and staying at home.

“In the regions where travel and COVID-19 restrictions have already been relaxed, there is a strong resurgence in demand across all these sectors, as well as indications that guests are willing to stay longer, spend more than before, and try out new wellness modalities.”

GWI adds: “Opportunities abound to introduce consumers to new wellness services

and solutions, not only at travel destinations, but also in everyday life – such as at day spas, urban retreats, and wellness centres where consumers can embed new practices and solutions into their post-COVID routine self-care, to help manage stress and enhance wellbeing.”

A rising trend of people taking wellness sabbaticals or workcations is also likely to boost the portion of wellness travellers, notes GWI. It adds: “In the future, we expect wellness travellers to focus even more on wellness-driven choices, activities, and exploration, such as hotels and accommodations that offer the promise of good sleep, soundproofing, circadian lighting, and air filtration; fitness and physical activities; healthy foods; mind-body and mental wellness modalities; less mainstream experiences like salt caves, cryotherapy, sound healing, or IV drips; connection with nature and green space; and making social connections or immersing in an authentic community experience.”

The organic garden at Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives

CLIMATE RESILIENCE

Skift’s Megatrends Defining Travel in 2022 report notes that ‘Climate Resilience is the new return on investment’ for the global travel sector.

With 2021 summits like COP26 and the G7 Summit amplifying the message that carbon and greenhouse gas emissions need to be reduced, travellers telling the industry to be greener and investors and shareholders exerting pressure too, airlines, cruise ships, travel agencies and other stakeholders joined hoteliers in launching long-term sustainability initiatives last year.

Accor and Marriott joined the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, a global organisation that brings together hospitality companies and uses the industry’s collective power to address challenges affecting the planet.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the alliance has launched the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality initiative, which more than 14 hotel members have signed to date.

This initiative looks at how hotels can aim to have a regenerative impact on the planet and addresses critical issues beyond carbon emissions, such as water usage, waste, and resource procurement, to name a few.

“We believe that working with our peers and partners from the hospitality

sector is the most effective way to make sustainable change happen,” stresses Brune Poirson, Chief Ssustainability Officer at Accor.

The International Air Transport Association last year approved a resolution for the global air transport industry to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“These sectors realise their decisions must take the environment and climate change into consideration at every stage,” says Skift.

Climate resilience starts at the beginning and is being seen in the emerging “green financing” trend.

Investments made in companies that support or provide planet-friendly practices or products, are becoming more popular.

In October 2021, Etihad raised $1.2 billion in what it claimed is the first sustainability linked loan tied to environmental, social and governance targets in global aviation. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, plans to raise up to $2.67 billion in green financing to build its eco-friendly Amaala resort.

Corporate travel agencies are offering their clients solutions to measure and reduce their carbon emissions while travelling and cruise line MSC is building LNG-powered vessels, one of which, MSC World Europa , will homeport in the UAE during the upcoming winter sailing season.

Etihad raised $1.2 billion in a sustainability linked loan

ACTIVE ECOTOURISM

“Wanderlusters around the world are trying to square their environmental and social concerns with their passion for travel, and they’re putting their money where their mouth is, says Amadeus. It cites its recent survey which found two-thirds of consumers consider sustainable travel a priority, and 37% of respondents think opportunities for travellers to be involved in the preservation of tourist destinations will help the industry to become more sustainable in the long-term. “Tourism operators have noticed, with a growing number promising to go beyond carbon offsetting and offer a measurable and positive impact on the environment,” notes Amadeus. In South Africa, Mantis Group offers ecotourism impact programmes including the opportunity to support rhino conservation efforts in South Africa. Meanwhile, Habitat for Humanity has developed travel and build and global village programmes, and the Global Citizens Network is collaborating with the White Earth Indian Reservation in Minnesota. Baros Maldives is inviting guests to personally contribute to programmes led by the resident marine biologist, including a coral frame planting experience in the coral garden and the creation and planting of a coral cube in the Baros lagoon. These initiatives help to create a coral garden of broken but living corals that otherwise would not survive and to help other areas of the reef to thrive.

Etihad raised $1.2 billion in a sustainability linked loan

“All of these efforts can help travellers add purposeful elements to their holidays, such as working to rebuild communities as part of their trip, or prioritising community-based tourism to ensure that their spending goes directly towards the local people and places they visit.,” says Amadeus.

Baros Maldives coral cube planting

FIVE DIVERSE DESTINATION DAZZLERS

DUBAI

Dubai, one of the first destinations globally to reopen its borders to international travel in 2020 and part of the UAE, which is consistently rated as the most-vaccinated nation in the world by Bloomberg’s vaccine tracker, was recently named the most popular destination for 2022 in Tripadvisor’s first Travellers’ Choice Award for Destinations. London ranked second, with traveller reviews and ratings of destinations over a 12-month period used to determine the winners. “Dubai is a destination that mixes modern culture with history, adventure with world-class shopping and entertainment,” says Tripadvisor.

AUCKLAND

Within Auckland, New Zealand, there are 53 volcanoes, more than 50 islands, three wine regions and numerous beaches, says Lonely Planet. The country’s biggest and most diverse city has a blossoming cultural scene, putting a fresh spotlight on exciting local creativity, which is why it was ranked first in the top 10 cities in Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel 2022’ list. “Paris may be the city of love, but Auckland is the city of many lovers, according to its Maori name, Tamaki Makaurau,” says Lonely Planet. “Those lovers so desired this place that they fought over it for centuries.”

OSLO

CNN named Oslo one of the best places for culture lovers to visit in its ‘The best holidays for 2022’ listing, noting its eco credentials. “The capital, tucked neatly into the head of the Oslofjord on the south coast of Norway, has been passionately transforming its waterways and neighbourhoods to create a truly sustainable eco-haven. Recently labelled the ‘Electric Vehicle Capital of the World’, it’s not content with small measures, with the entire city pledging to become carbon neutral by 2050,” it reveals.

SAUDI ARABIA

The Wanderlust Hot List 2022: Editor’s top travel destinations, highlights Saudi Arabia as an emerging destination to visit, citing attractions such as the ancient ruins of AlUla, “a Nabataean wonder to rival Jordan’s Petra”, as well as its “plush new desert resorts” as just one of many drawcards. “By late 2022, the new Red Sea ‘mega city’ of Neom will debut its first hotels,” says

One of Auckland's stunning beaches

The Opera House, Oslo, a culture capital

Wanderlust. “This year also brings the reopening of At-Turaif, the birthplace of the kingdom; listed by UNESCO but long closed for renovation, it’s a marvel of mud-brick palaces, mosques and more that will help tell Saudi’s story. Finally, some wild experiences, from trekking to the Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn) to diving the Red Sea are now possible. There’s never been a better time to visit.”

COOK ISLANDS

Ranking the number one country on the

Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel 2022’ list, the “fifteen droplets of land cast across two million square kilometres of wild Pacific blue” that comprise the Cook Islands are “simultaneously remote and accessible, modern and traditional”, says Lonely Planet. “Authentic Polynesian traditions pair with a bold approach to sustainability on this proudly independent South Pacific nation,” it says. “A diverse landscape full of adventure, interaction, and culinary delights awaits all who visit Cook Islands.”

TRAVEL’S NEW GLOSSARY

Like them or loathe them, a new glossary of travel terms has emerged

1. Revenge travel – a new intense, post-pandemic form of bucket-list travel as consumers break free from lockdowns

2. Buddymoon – a chance to enjoy a fly-and-flop trip with mates, also known as a ‘friendcation’

3. Brocation – just like a Buddymoon, but for blokes only, and could include the good old MAMILS (middle aged men in Lycra)

4. Bleisure – it's not new, but it’s here to stay and sums up our desire to mix business with pleasure or leisure

5. Slow travel – a new way to explore the world, avoiding over-saturated tourist areas and instead, finding off-thebeaten track locations where life is peaceful and slow

6. Maxibreak – also known as the mini sabbatical – it’s longer than your average holiday and the chance to find a new vocation while on vacation, perhaps as part of the ‘great resignation’

AlUla is described as “a Nabataean wonder to rival Jordan’s Petra”

Above top: Slow travel is the new way to explore the world.

Above: Authentic Polynesia awaits in the Cook Islands

‘Brocation’ anyone?

THE RED SEA PROJECT

100% renewable energy target 650,000 MWh of clean energy to be generated annually via solar panels and wind turbines

Half a million tonnes of CO2 saved annually

“We have no alternative; we have to go green. We need to invest in making sure destinations are great places to live and not just great places to visit.”

JULIA SIMPSON, PRESIDENT AND CEO, WORLD TRAVEL & TOURISM COUNCIL

Image: DCT Abu Dhabi; sources: Google, Booking.com, Etihad, TRSDC, WTTC

Pura Eco Retreat, Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi

70%

The rise in the number of people searching for sustainable travel options in 2021

61%

Of travellers say the pandemic has made them want to travel more sustainably in the future

$5

Etihad Guests and partners can invest in carbon removal for $5 per mangrove at The Etihad Mangrove Forest, Jubail

6.4bn

Tonnes of carbon stored by mangroves globally, almost four times more than other terrestrial forests

Tourism for Sustainable Growth

Tourism, the responsible way

How destinations Gulf-wide are putting people and the planet first

In 2018, the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) published a two-volume report titled, ‘Tourism for Development’ making recommendations on the ways in which tourism could contribute to sustainable development and

the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also and illustrated the global reach and positive effects of tourism on other sectors, setting out to increase awareness of tourism’s role in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and of

the need to integrate sustainability into tourism policies, business practices and tourist behaviour. Describing tourism as a driver of sustainable development, the report explained that tourism benefits economic growth, quality of life, environmental protection,

diverse cultural heritage, and world peace.

In 2022, despite the unprecedented challenges to societies, economies and tourism resulting from the pandemic, the industry has “succeeded in laying the foundations to restart

Shurayrah Island, Red Sea Project

tourism around the pillars of sustainability, innovation, people and investing for a resilient future”, says the UNTWO.

“Like never before, the pandemic has made clear tourism’s relevance to our economies and societies. Tourism is now part of the global conversation and at the heart of both national and international recovery action plans.”

The UNWTO says restarting tourism is “unthinkable without green investments” and the industry is “ready do the hard work and live up to its responsibilities to people and planet”, as demonstrated by the “huge interest” in the last year’s Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, launched at the UN Climate Summit COP26. “We are receiving a growing number of commitments to halve emissions by 2030 and to reach NetZero by 2050 at the latest, with member countries, individual destinations, global companies and local players, as well as media outlets, hundreds are on board, and counting,” says the UNWTO.

SAUDI STEPS UP

For UNWTO member the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, sustainability has been at the

heart of Vision 2030 since the strategy’s inception. The kingdom aims to reach Net Zero by 2060, in line with wider Vision 2030 ambitions to accelerate the energy transition, achieve sustainability goals, and to drive a new wave of investment.

A year after opening its regional office for the Middle East in Riyadh, the UNWTO has forged closer ties with Saudi Arabia and established the office as a rural tourism trailblazer.

The regional office is managing the UNWTO Global Tourism and Rural Development Programme, aimed at making tourism a pillar of growth and opportunity for rural communities. The programme includes the world’s Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO, now in its second year. Alongside this, the regional office is focusing on knowledge creation for policy and business practices, training and skills development and technical assistance on the ground, with plans also in place to establish a first Tourism and Rural Development Observatory in Riyadh.

To realise the goal of creating more added-value jobs in tourism through education, a new UNWTO Knowledge Lab will be launched from Riyadh, while a first Observatory on Quality of Tourism Education and Jobs will also be established to monitor the advancement of the strategy.

To ensure the benefits of tourism education are enjoyed as widely as possible, 10 new online courses will be made available in Arabic through the UNWTO Tourism Online Academy, and the UNWTO will also work with

Above: The Red Sea Project Far right: AlUla

“We are trying to build a leading destination framed by sustainability”

higher education providers from the region.

In line with UNWTO’s wider commitment to advancing tourism for climate action, plans are in place to make the UNWTO’s regional office for the Middle East a hub for promoting green investments in the tourism sector, both in the region and worldwide, including through projects developed in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and other partners such as the Saudi Tourism Development Fund (TDF) – responding to the UNWTO climate action framework, outlined in the Glasgow Declaration launched at COP26.

LET’S RESTORE NATURE

At last year’s World Travel Market London, the CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), Fahd Hamidaddin, called on the industry to form a ‘Tourism 20’ delegation of world industry leaders, similar to the G20, which was hosted by Saudi Arabia in 2020.

“At the G20, it was very clear tourism was missing in the room. There’s no Tourism 20,” he said, speaking at a conference session entitled: ‘Saudi Arabia: a destination of the future – putting sustainability first’.

He told a packed audience: “Our ambitions are high. We are seeing far. We are trying to build a leading destination framed by sustainability. Everybody talks about sustainability. Very few actually do something about it.” Speaking at the same session, and underlining the country’s commitment to sustainability, Amr AlMadani, CEO of The Royal Commission for AlUla, said: “Going green for us and being sustainable is not a choice, it’s the way forward”.

John Pagano, CEO of The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), added: “Saudi Arabia is taking very bold steps. We are going to be the largest tourism destination in the world, powered 100% by renewable energy.” He invited other tourism companies to follow this lead, concluding: “The tech exists. All that’s lacking is the will. Let’s restore nature.”

The Red Sea Project, a barefoot luxury destination spanning some 28,000 sqkm, involves several “ambitious regenerative tourism projects”, which Pagano says: “pave the way for renewed sustainable practices within the tourism industry, setting new standards as we progress”.

“We will be leaving 75% of The Red Sea Project’s islands untouched, for example,

The

Red Sea Project is a barefoot luxury destination

“Going green for us and being sustainable is not a choice, it’s the way forward”

and only less than 1% of the site will be developed – unprecedented in any documented coastal development plan in the world.”

The development also aims to become the largest certified Dark Sky Reserve in the world, seeking an accreditation that recognises areas with an exceptional quality of starry nights and a commitment to protecting the nocturnal environment. TRSDC is also vital to the creation, training, and capacity-building of the present and next generation of Saudi talent through the creation of 120,000 direct and indirect jobs across both current projects by 2030, Pagano adds.

Similarly, ‘The Journey Through Time’ masterplan to sustainably develop the historical area of AlUla, to be implemented in three phases until 2035, aims to deliver 38,000 new jobs and contribute $32 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP.

Additionally, 80% of AlUla County will be home to nature reserves, with key flora and fauna reintroduced. The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) recently signed two strategic partnerships worth billions to accelerate the regeneration of the region as it starts to implement key facets of Journey Through Time.

The agreements with AECOM and an international French consortium comprising Egis, Assystem and Setec, set out a comprehensive development timeline based around three phases that lead up to 2035.

BEST TOURISM VILLAGES

The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO initiative was launched to advance the role of tourism in safeguarding rural villages, along with their landscapes, natural and cultural diversity, and their local values and activities, including local gastronomy. A total of 44 villages from 32 countries across the five world regions were granted the recognition in 2021. All of them stand out for their natural and cultural resources as well as for their innovative and transformative actions and commitment to the development of tourism in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Middle East villages receiving recognition included Bkassine, Lebanon; Misfat Al Abriyeen, Oman; Mustafapaşa, Turkey; Rijal Alma’a, Saudi Arabia; Sidi Kaouki, Morocco; and Taraklı, Turkey.

Bkassine village in Lebanon has received UNWTO recognition

A Coral Bloom hotel, part of the Red Sea Project

UAE

ECO-TOURISM HOTSPOTS

Mleiha is one of the UAE’s most important historical sites where visitors step back in time to learn about the settlers in the region during the Palaeolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron, pre-Islamic, Islamic, and modern ages. At Mleiha Archaeological Centre, guests venture deep into the deserts of Sharjah and uncover the secrets of the region’s ancient Bedouin culture through intriguing information, exhilarating recreational activities and breathtaking natural landscapes. Visitors can stay the night at eco-luxe camping resort, Moon Retreat, with luxury tent and dome accommodation, some with private pools, and signature nature-inspired experiences including epic stargazing opportunities, hiking trails and a trip to Mleiha Archaeological Centre.

providing a suitable environment for a remarkable biodiversity of flora, fauna and animals. It is an important habitat for breeding many rare birds such as the local Arabian Collared Kingfisher and is also popular for a range of eco-tourism pursuits, including kayaking.

The Phase 1 development amounts to more than $15 billion invested in AlUla’s core 20km historical area. This incorporates social, economic and sustainability projects in five hubs with a focus on infrastructure, hospitality, arts and culture, and community development. The partnerships will enhance business and investment opportunities from 2022, accelerating the revitalisation of AlUla as a responsible, sustainable, and community-inclusive destination.

ECO-TOURISM IN THE UAE

The UAE’s sustainable development plans for tourism are also far-reaching. In 2019, the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment’s (MoCCAE) launched a plan to position the emirates as a leading global ecotourism destination ranking among the most ambitious of its kind initiated anywhere in the world. The National

Al Qurm Protected Area, located in the coastal areas of Kalba, Al Qurm is home to one of the UAE’s most diverse ecosystems including seawater mangroves, swamps, salt marshes and mudflats,

SHAJRAH

“In the UAE, protected areas account for 14% of the entire country”

AJMAN

Al Zorah Reserve, located in the northern region of Ajman, is a protected area of more than one-million-squaremetres of natural mangrove forest and is a vibrant ecosystem for birds, namely flamingos, and marine life.

Masfout, famous for its agricultural land, marble, and rugged backdrop, is a superb destination for hikers. With its altitude and cooler temperatures, it attracts walkers and mountain bikers, plus its valleys are ideal for a picnic.

Mangrove Beach Khor Al Yeefrah is popular for its natural beauty and mangrove beaches and aims to promote environmental tourism. The mangrove forests feature magnificent red dunes where bird watchers can spot flocks of many bird species. The beach offers unique opportunities for relaxation, camping, caravans, and activities such as kayaking, beach tennis, jet-skiing and paragliding.

Ecotourism Project, unveiled by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al-Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, promotes the UAE’s growing portfolio of eco-tourism attractions in three phases focusing on environmental, economic, and social developments. It includes showcasing the country’s 43 protected natural areas and promoting sustainable tourism options covering eco-friendly flights, hotels, beaches, and campsites.

The UAE boasts one of the largest ratios of protected areas per land mass in the world. On average, protected natural areas listed by 130 countries worldwide constitute just 5% of the total surface of the earth. However, in the UAE, protected areas account for 14% of the entire country. One of the most significant additions to the UAE’s protected areas is the Marmoom Reserve

project, located on the outskirts of Dubai and covering more than 10% of the emirate’s total land area. The reserve provides shelter for a wide variety of endangered animals and birds, combining education, environmental awareness, tourism, and leisure.

It is also an incubator for the largest plant nursery in the UAE, covering an area of 40 hectares. The area is also location of the 3,000-year-old Saruq Al Hadid archaeological site.

In neighbouring Abu Dhabi, the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi has developed several sustainable eco-tourism initiatives, including the Al Reem Mangroves preservation project; Jubail Mangrove Park, an educational, research and leisure destination; Jebel Hafit, providing a safe path for visitors, hikers, and cyclists to enjoy views from the mountains; the Sweihan Desert area – a haven for desert lovers and campers; exquisite marine protected areas; and The Hawksbill Turtle Conservation Programme. The

UAE’s national airline, Etihad Airways, is taking this a step further, collaborating with the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi to launch the Etihad Mangrove Forest, offering guests, corporate accounts and partners the opportunity to adopt Abu Dhabi’s mangroves to reduce their carbon footprint. Using a digital platform, guests, and partners to invest in carbon removal for AED 18.5 (US$5) per mangrove, where the individual trees can be tracked online or through an app. The guest receives a unique tree code, geolocation, and virtual access to their tree for the next 10 years. The Etihad Mangroves Forest site has been chosen specifically due to its protected status under the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, which guarantees its ability to remove carbon from the atmosphere for at least 100 years. Using the platform’s app, investors can ‘chat’ with their chatbot-enabled tree, while also being able to track every tree with satellite maps and access data, including CO2 consumption metrics, which can be tracked and offset against emissions.

DUBAI CAN

In addition to eco-tourism and conservation targets, the MOCCAE is leading coordinated efforts to execute the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, which is aligned to the Paris Agreement,

Top:: Marmoom Reserve project, Dubai

Above: Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi

calling on countries to prepare long-term strategies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and limit the rise in global temperature to 1.5 C compared to preindustrial levels.

The UAE’s national drive to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 would make the Emirates the first Middle East and North Africa (MENA) country to do so.

This is in line with the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to transform the UAE into a “green economy for sustainable development”.

At emirate level, Dubai has ambitions to become one of the world’s most sustainable cities, as set out in the Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan.

This sustainable urban development strategy focuses on enhancing people’s happiness and quality of life and reinforcing Dubai as a global destination for citizens, residents, and visitors over the next 20 years.

Under the plan, by 2040, green and recreational spaces will have doubled; nature reserves and rural natural areas will comprise 60% of land; several green corridors will link service areas, residential areas, and workplaces: the movement of pedestrians, bicycles, and sustainable mobility means across the city will be facilitated; land area for hotels and tourist activities will increase by 134% and for commercial activities and the length of public beaches will increase by 400%.

The Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan also integrates the Hatta Development Plan, which provides for the comprehensive development of the area. Recent tourism initiatives aligned to both the urban masterplan

UNWTO SECRETARY GENERAL ZURAB POLOLIKASHVILI

The UNWTO has launched a new set of guidelines to help governments and businesses better address the needs of women in the tourism sector. They aim to ensure an inclusive and resilient recovery from the impacts of the pandemic and recognise that, given the disproportionate loss of employment suffered by women, as well as the high proportion of women workers within tourism and their concentration in lower-skilled and lower-paid jobs, plans for the sector’s restart and recovery must address their specific needs.

and UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategy include ‘Dubai Can’, launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, to encourage residents and visitors to turn the tide on plastic waste. The citywide strategy, which is being implemented by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), inspires mass action to actively reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles, motivate individuals to undertake simple changes such as using

The Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan integrates the Hatta Development Plan

“The restart of tourism must include everyone, and the benefits must be enjoyed by all. Tourism has proven itself a true champion of gender equality and these new guidelines will help both governments and businesses harness the sector’s power as a driver of women’s empowerment as the world opens up again.”

refillable water bottles and public water stations and installing water filters in their homes, offices, and schools.

It reinforces the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST), a public-private partnership, with the involvement of civil society, that aims to contribute to Dubai’s broader clean energy and sustainable development targets by embedding the principles of sustainability into all aspects of the tourism sector.

RAK’S RACE FOR LEADERSHIP

The Northern Emirates have outlined ambitious plans for sustainable tourism too.

In September, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) announced its Sustainable Tourism Destination Strategy, setting a target to become “the regional leader in environmentally conscious tourism by 2025”. The strategy maps out key steps for the emirate to secure long-term sustainability that will drive overall tourism growth objectives and contribute directly to national and international climate change and environmental policy commitments.

The guiding principles for Sustainable Tourism in Ras Al Khaimah include: delivering authentic tourism experiences through preservation and conservation;

taking an industry wide focus that provides both economic productivity and sustainable development; improving the quality of life and wellbeing of citizens and residents with a community based approach; and setting environmental goals based on minimising the industry’s carbon footprint and contributing to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. As part of its ongoing sustainability efforts, RAKTDA works with EarthCheck, the global environmental experts, to cocreate and implement sustainable practices that address key sustainability and climate change issues facing the tourism industry.

The authority also runs a scholarship programme with the American University of Ras Al Khaimah focused on tourism-related educational programming.

Furthermore, in partnership with the Ras Al Khaimah Public Services Department, the authority launched the ‘Green Hotels Rating’ 2021 initiative, taking place for the fourth consecutive year, which aims to achieve 100% integrated sustainability in all of Ras Al Khaimah’s hotels. RAKTDA also recently rolled out a high-impact investment initiative in partnership with Arton Capital, a leading government advisory company, to boost tourism and investment. SelectRAK provides an array of benefits to investors including long-term residency based on criteria outlined by the government. By enhancing the appeal of Ras Al Khaimah for investment, the initiative will help build all core economic sectors, including healthcare, hospitality, education, trade, and retail, in turn, creating new jobs and supporting domestic enterprises, says RAKTDA.

THE GLOBAL TOURISM PLASTICS INITIATIVE AT A GLANCE

The Global Tourism Plastics Initiative unites the tourism sector behind a common vision to address the root causes of plastic pollution. It is led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Tourism Organisation in collaboration with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. At time of press, the following progress had been made:

110

UNWTO member signatories

108mn

Plastic items eliminated across reporting businesses in 2020

804

Metric tonnes eliminated, the equivalent to 27 large shipping containers

74mn

Eliminated plastic items and packaging in hotel guest bathrooms (>451 metric tonnes)

34mn

Plastic items and packaging eliminated in hotel F&B (>352 metric tonnes)

RAK is delivering authentic tourism experiences

10 places for a changed world

PUTTING PENGUINS BEFORE PEOPLE IN SOUTHEAST AUSTRALIA

Visitors have been flocking to Philip Island to see the world’s smallest penguin breed since the 1920s, but by the mid-80s, the crowds of people gathering to see the ‘Penguin Parade’ every day and night, was causing problems for the colony.

So too was the local neighbourhood, Summerland Estates, with construction, cars and pets taking their toll. In 1985, the state government implemented a plan to buy every piece of property on the Summerland Peninsula and return the land to its natural state — and to its original inhabitants, the tiny penguins.

where

At the beginning of 2022, the New York Times unveiled 52 places for a changed world – destinations ranging from cities and small towns to villages and rural areas with innovative strategies related to overtourism, poverty, conservation, energy consumption and more. Here’s our top 10 picks of those 52.

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES IN NORTHERN INDIA

In northern India, along the Tibetan border, widows and survivors of domestic violence are being trained to offer homestays, cook for visitors and be guides. Fernweh brings a maximum of eight groups of no more than 10 people a year to villages like Gopeshwar, Mandal and Chopta, to practice yoga, take cooking lessons and hike among the wild orchids of the nearby Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors stay in cabins, village homes and an upcoming eco-retreat in Koteshwar. Funds raised from tourism support environmental and educational programmes in at least nine villages; a group buying just one meal from a widow will support her for months. “This is not mass tourism,” says Ms. Rawat-Hahne, a social justice activist who introduced the initiative. “This is empowerment.”

The process was completed in 2010, and the penguin population now sits at around 35,000 breeding-aged birds, up from 12,000 in the 1980s. In 2019, a new $58 million visitor centre opened to the public; it includes educational elements and a restaurant where you can sit and watch what is now the largest colony of the world’s smallest penguin.

SUSTAINING TRADITIONAL LIVELIHOODS IN JORDAN

Once abandoned by the Ata-ta tribe, the Dana Villa settlement in Jordan’s largest nature reserve is being brought back to life through an ecotourism project that aims to preserve the area’s biodiversity by empowering local communities.

Many of the 15th-century, Ottoman-era houses have been converted into eco-lodges with terraced gardens and orchards, creating an oasis above the desert plains below. Along the village’s cobbled streets, local women sell handcrafted jewellery and homemade jams produced from fruits grown in their orchards.

Dana Village marks the start of the ninemile Wadi Dana hiking trail that spans the reserve and its flora and fauna. The reserve is home to 833 plant species and several endangered bird species, as well as archaeological ruins from the Byzantine, Nabatean, and Roman periods, including the ancient copper mines in Wadi Faynan.

GIVING CHEESE A CHANCE IN GOUDA, THE NETHERLANDS

In 2019, Amsterdam, the most popular destination in the Netherlands, received almost 22 million day-trippers and overnight visitors. In response, the Dutch tourism board said it would stop promoting travel to the country because of overtourism. At the same time, it started

Top: Penguin Parade, Australia

Above: Gouda, The Netherlands

encouraging visitors to look beyond the bright lights of Amsterdam and to travel more sustainably. One option is Gouda, the home of cheese.

This small historic city in the south has been produced Gouda, one of the world’s 10 most popular cheeses, since 1184. It also caters to car-free visits, with an extensive system of well-marked bicycle routes (with charging stations for e-bikes) making it easy to explore the city and surrounding region.

PRESERVING ANCIENT NOMADIC TRAILS IN EGYPT

The Ma’aza tribe in Egypt’s Eastern Desert has revived ancient footpaths once traversed by pastoral nomads to create the 100-mile Red Sea Mountain Trail.

Bedouins from the tribe conduct day

Destinations

travellers can be part of the solution

hikes through separate sections of this fascinating wilderness, which is hemmed between the Nile River and the Red Sea.

On the trek to Jebel Abul Hassan, hikers find themselves in a magical narrowing gorge flanked by pink and black granite walls. The hike up the sheer slopes of Wadi El Gattar reveals stone hermit cells built by early Christians fleeing the Romans, and primitive rock art from long before then. The New York Times describes it as “the ultimate sustainable tourism project” with the water drawn from wells, the flat bread baked in campfires, and the Bedouin legends, traditions and knowledge of the terrain preserved for future generations.

TURNING DOWN THE RISING HEAT IN SWELTERING NAPLES

Without intervention, Italy’s densely populated city of Naples is expected to experience 55 days of extreme heat per year by 2049 and 93 days by 2081, according to European climate-change organisation, CMCC. But the locals are fighting back, with residents of San Giovanni a Teduccio setting up a fairenergy community to provide free, clean electricity to families living below the poverty line, with a system of 166 solar panels. Local authorities encourage tourists to visit the city on foot, touring The Pedamentina ‘Stairway to Heaven’ with 414 steps, tracing its 14th century roots.

RURAL LIVING REVITALISED BY LOCALS IN KANSAS

In 2016, a group of Kansas locals who had left decades ago began asking themselves, “What would it take to move back home?” The answer was in tiny Humboldt, two hours southwest of Kansas City with a population of fewer than 2,000 people. With the support of the local community, the group established A Bolder Humboldt, an organisation set up to revitalise rural living, with the town becoming an unexpected and affordable oasis of cool surrounded by fields of wheat and soybeans. A Bolder Humboldt has already opened shops, community gardens and co-working spaces, with a boutique hotel, a honky-tonk bar, and a bookstore all planned. At Base Camp on the edge of town, visitors can stay in a collection of lakeside rental cabins, while cyclists can ride a 60-mile trail to nearby Lawrence and the University of Kansas. Humboldt is hoping these new experiences will bring back locals and tourists to the Great Plains.

Above: Rooftop gardens, Monaco

Below: Whale watching, Mexico

MONACO SWAPS WEALTH FOR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

A playground for the rich and famous and host to the F1 Grand Prix, Monaco glitters in gold, rather than green, but the sovereign city-state on the French Riviera has an ambitious plan to cut its carbon emissions by 55% before 2030 and to become carbon-neutral by 2050.

Its sustainability efforts are driven by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, a global charity prioritising environmental action that has transformed the 0.76-square-mile enclave.

Today it has a network of electric cars, bikes and hybrid buses and a solarpowered water taxi service. Local company Terrae takes urban gardening and farming to new heights, populating rooftops, and balconies, and supplying residents and restaurants, including Michelin-starred Blue Bay, while the Distillery of Monaco produces gin flavoured with citrus from trees in Monaco and nearby villages.

TOURISM FUNDS SAVE JAGUARS IN ARGENTINA

Dozens of endangered species, notably jaguars, giant anteaters, and giant river otters, have been saved from extinction in Iberá Park, one of the largest reserves in Argentina, thanks to the Rewilding Argentina foundation, funded by tourism and a consortium of philanthropists around the world.

The area has also become a refuge for marsh deer, maned wolves, rheas, grassland birds and the aptly named — and endangered — strange-tailed tyrants. Tourism and infrastructure are strictly managed and by staying in one of the park’s camp ground, guests directly support the foundation, which continues the cycle of conservation.

RETRAINING FISHERMEN AS WHALE-WATCHING GUIDES AND HELPING TURTLES NEST IN COASTAL MEXICO

Zihuatanejo – a laid-back beach town on the Pacific Coast of Mexico – and communities around it have developed grassroots environmental projects that travellers can support, from training fishermen as whale-watching guides to providing opportunities to join turtle nest patrols and release hatchlings.

Meanwhile, 30 miles south, a solarpowered regenerative resort has helped revive the nearby village of Juluchuca by providing education and employment in conservation, tourism, and agriculture.

It recently joined a new regional project to protect the watershed of the Juluchuca River, which begins in the country's mountainous interior.

Here, guests can take ATV excursions to explore the headwaters at an off-grid coffee and cacao plantation.

Tourism’s sustainable future is not just green, it’s blue too

Destinations must look to our oceans for regenerative tourism opportunities, says Nick Cambden, Co-Founder, DeepBlueSee

Numerous trends reports have identified sustainable tourism as a top trend for 2022.But sustainability – which aims to counterbalance social and environmental impacts associated with travel and tourism – is no longer enough. The new frontier is regenerative travel, or leaving a place better than you found it, restoring the harm our system has done to the natural world, using nature’s principles.

“Sustainable tourism is sort of a low bar. At the end of the day, it’s just not making a mess of the place,” says Jonathon Day, an associate professor focused on sustainable tourism at Purdue University, speaking recently to the New York Times

“Regenerative tourism says, let’s make it better for future generations.”

Some tourism destinations, acutely aware of the need to undo the damage done, are taking steps to make regenerative tourism a priority, by joining a new Future of Tourism coalition created by six non-profit organisations, including the Center for Responsible Travel and Sustainable Travel International, which aims to “build a better tomorrow”. Destinations on board, having signed up to the Guiding Principles for Tourism’s New Future, hail from all four corners of the globe, ranging from Bhutan and the Philippines in Asia, Jordan in the Middle East, Slovenia, Portugal, Norway and Hungary in Europe, Tunisia in North Africa, Mexico in Central America, and Colombia in South America.

Hundreds more city and regional entities, as well as travel and tourism businesses, have also committed.

Other organisations clued-up to

regenerative tourism include Tourism New Zealand, which is looking at measuring the industry’s success not solely in economic terms, but against the wellbeing of the country, considering nature, human health and community identities, while The Red Sea Project under construction in Saudi Arabia will be entirely carbon neutral from its first day of operation.

TURNING THE TIDE

One important aspect of regenerative tourism is protecting our wildlife and the loss of biodiversity.

In his round-up of 10 responsible travel trends for 2022, Justin Francis, founder and CEO of Responsible Travel, notes how this year, “growing respect for the fragility and interdependence between humans and nature will see greater scrutiny applied to wildlife tourism”.

Watching nature in its rightful habitat, at a natural distance, will become popular, he says. There will be a desire to reconnect with nature, and “re-wilding and conservation breaks take root.”

There are currently some admirable regenerative tourism projects globally that focus on the prevention of biodiversity loss and protecting endangered species, but the majority are taking place on land, rather than at sea.

Citing the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report on the consequences of climate change in his recent blog for World Travel Market, the show’s WTM Responsible Tourism Advisor, Harold Goodwin, stresses how it identifies “irreversible impacts as natural

and human systems are pushed beyond their ability to adapt”. He adds: “They report with high confidence that “climate change has caused substantial damages, and increasingly irreversible losses, in terrestrial, freshwater and coastal and open ocean marine ecosystems” and “widespread deterioration of ecosystem structure and function, resilience and natural adaptive capacity, as well as shifts in seasonal timing have occurred due to climate change with adverse socioeconomic consequences”.

When we think of tackling climate change and protecting the environment, we tend to think green rather than blue, but IPCC’s findings remind us we need to look beneath the surface.

There’s a reason why the Earth is known as the blue planet; a source of oxygen, food and water, our seas are what makes life on Earth possible.

In fact, 80% of all life on Earth is found in the ocean.

More than a billion people around the world rely on fish as their main source of protein and more than 200 million rely on fishing for their livelihoods.

And not only do they provide the essentials for life, but our oceans are also the planet’s richest repositories of natural marvels in abundance.

Nick Cambden

REGENERATIVE TOURISM ATTRACTIONS: THE OPPORTUNITY

A win-win for destinations is to look at developing underwater regenerative tourism attractions, yet very few have pursued this opportunity.

Take, for instance, the GCC, home to some of the world’s most impressive tourist attractions, from architectural masterpieces and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to islands dedicated to sports and entertainment, as well as the trailblazer of regenerative tourism projects, particularly in Saudi Arabia.

There are all overwhelmingly land-based, yet the Gulf is home to thousands of kilometres of pristine coastline and waters teaming with marine life. Saudi Arabia alone boasts more than 3,400 kilometres of coastline along the Red Sea in the west and the Arabian Gulf in the east, while the UAE’s mangrove forests have grown to become the largest in the region.

The Arabian Gulf’s expansive network of coral reef systems support more than 700 fish species, and its magnificent marine creatures include turtles, dolphins, dugongs, whale sharks and blue-spotted rays, to name a few.

Water-based activities, from kayaking to sailing, are common, and diving and snorkelling is popular in some locations, but there are no underwater attractions offering visitors the chance to explore below the Gulf’s waters in new and unique ways, even though the potential is vast.

Underwater tourism is a multi-billiondollar industry, according to research firm Mintel, with dive tourism alone estimated to be worth US$30 billion annually while coral reef tourism generates $35.4 billion in global tourism value every year.

The Great Barrier Reef has an economic, social and icon asset value of $56 billion. It supports 64,000 jobs and contributes $6.4 billion to the Australian economy, according to a Deloitte Access Economics report. Of course, this is the largest living

structure on Earth, the size of Japan, and bigger than the United Kingdom, Switzerland and the Netherlands, put together, but my point is that many travellers long to discover what lies beneath.

Underwater attractions give tourists another reason to visit – or to come back again – and crucially, attract the cruise ship crowds, so the case for robust ROI is strong.

At the same time, if delivered by experts in marine and biodiversity preservation, they can prove regenerative, avoiding the mistakes made in the past, to the detriment of fragile marine life.

The UNWTO recently hosted a summit highlighting tourism’s central role in advancing the Blue Economy noting how a stronger focus on sustainability could help deliver more competitive and inclusive tourism activities.

With tourism representing some 40% of the Blue Economy, UNWTO Executive Director Zoritsa Urosevic said that as part of industry recovery, it should play a key role in the regeneration of coastal and marine ecosystems for resilience.

Sensitively created underwater attractions that benefit the marine ecosystem, for instance, in promoting new coral life, are most certainly one of the answers and I believe Gulf destinations are among those best placed to make it happen.

Regional governments have already proven they are committed to sustainable and regenerative tourism development on land, so now is the time for them to set new global benchmarks for underwater tourism,

showing the world how to truly harness the value of their ocean resource. It will require close collaboration between government and tourism stakeholders, as well as the local community and travellers, to develop creative solutions that benefit all parties, with the protection of the environment at the centre, but the Gulf has proven it is adept in forging these partnerships.

For example, Etihad Airways recently launched the innovative Etihad Mangrove Forest in collaboration with Environment Abu Dhabi, providing guests, corporate accounts and partners the ability to adopt mangroves in Abu Dhabi to reduce their carbon footprint.

In line with the Abu Dhabi Mangrove initiative by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, the Etihad Mangrove Forest is the culmination of multiple joint programmes between Etihad, Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, Jubail Island, The Storey Group and other partners to support mangrove conservation projects in the nation and develop new carbon sinks and natural resources to remove carbon from the atmosphere following its stakeholder principle ‘Abu Dhabi for the World’.

With powerful collaborations like these, meaningful regenerative tourism development is made possible.

Globally we need to move away from what we can take from the places we visit to what tourism can contribute to destinations and their people, and thinking blue, as well as green, is crucial to this new way of responsible tourism development.

“A win-win for destinations is to look at developing underwater regenerative tourism attractions, yet very few have pursued this opportunity”

Underwater regenerative tourism attractions are the future

What lies beneath

DeepBlueSee has ambitions to transform the Gulf’s underwater tourism scene

The Gulf is home to some of the world’s most incredible – and Instaworthy – tourism attractions, from architectural feats such as the modern-day Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra in Saudi Arabia, to palm-shaped islands, futuristic museums, and so much more. However, developments to date have focused on the land, or on the sea, but few have taken a dive into the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea or Indian Ocean.

While there are diving and snorkelling sites aplenty around the GCC, there are no underwater tourism attractions of note.

One company hoping to change that is UK-headquartered DeepBlueSee, which for the last decade, has worked with government and tourism industry stakeholders around the globe to build artificial reef snorkelling attractions. Its team of experts has been involved in

the design, fabrication and installation of more than 2,000 sculptures, establishing new artificial reef eco-system attractions in destinations including Mexico, the Bahamas, the Canary Islands, Bali, the Maldives, Cyprus and the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.

A WIN-WIN FOR ALL

These underwater sculpture attractions deliver significant environmental, media, educational and economic benefits and value for their host location.

Environmental benefits include the creation of an artificial reef, the integration of species-specific habitat spaces and a protective zone for marine species.

They not only remove tourists from natural reefs, which can be left alone and preserved, but create an opportunity to engage visitors, as well as the local community, in conservation.

The educational impact is therefore huge, with the attractions lending themselves to school outreach programmes, eco-art workshops, coral nurseries as part of an ocean conservation centre, online resource development and more.

With DeepBlueSee able to create almost any type of underwater sculpture, from recreations of historical buildings and scenes, to cartoon characters and figures from the modern day, these attractions have visual and photogenic appeal that is highly shareable online and offline, hence untold media and social media value.

The revenue-earning opportunities for destinations are significant too, through private project and coral sponsorship, attraction ticket sales and marine park fees.

“These attractions not only appeal to residents and visitors, but cruise passengers too, so ROI opportunities are significant,” explains DeepBlueSee Co-Founder Yannick Lucas. “Our past projects have delivered substantial benefits to destinations, with their underwater attractions boosting both first-time and repeat visits.”

RESPONSIBLE AND REGENERATIVE

As destinations try to grow their tourism sectors in a responsible and sustainable way, increasing its contribution to GDP

DeepBlueSee’s Cancun project

while avoiding overtourism and prioritising regenerative projects that aim to reverse damage to the environment, DeepBlueSee, a company dedicated to the enhancement of subaquatic ecosystems, provides a solution. In addition to its attractions promoting new coral life, in support of circular economy concepts the artificial reefs can now be made from compounds derived from recycled waste materials.

DeepBlueSee has partnered with Loughborough University in the UK to develop a series of proprietary materials that are pH neutral, inert in seawater and highly durable, while creating a textured surface for biomass, sponges, and corals to settle and thrive.

This newly developed artificial reef compound significantly reduces the volume of cement, silica, glass fibre and metal rebars in a traditional concrete mix, replacing them with recycled glass, aggregates, and organic waste.

DeepBlueSee works with government departments and local waste management companies to identify and process locally sourced material into the material design. In the Gulf, for example, it would work with airlines and cruise lines at the destination to recycle their waste products to create the compound required to create its local reef attraction.

GULF AMBITIONS

Lucas says DeepBlueSee’s artificial reef snorkelling attractions tick all the right boxes for destinations in the Gulf.

“Firstly, we are creating an attraction that is new to the region, with no underwater tourism offering of its kind currently developed,” he says.

“Secondly, with many Gulf destinations looking to tell the story of their culture and history, we can create this under the water with artistic interpretations of its pearldiving history, for example.

“Other ideas include Islamic peace gardens, Arabesque cloisters, contemporary souks, or traditional fountains; the possibilities are endless.

“Of course, the GCC is also known for its innovation and ambition, developing cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries and are world firsts.

“We embrace this avant-garde approach and would welcome the opportunity to create something out of this world.”

DeepBlueSee is also keen to involve local artists in the creative process, while schools and universities can get on board by monitoring the attraction’s positive impact on the marine environment.

“Our mission is to empower coastal communities to harness the value of their ocean resource, and where better than the GCC, known for its visionary governments who understand the value of protecting the land and the sea as the foundation of sustainable tourism development, mindful of leaving a legacy for generations to come,” says Lucas.

“We are looking to work with stakeholders in the Gulf who share our vision for the protection of biodiversity, recovery of marine ecosystems, environmental awareness, education of the public and the establishment of marine protected areas.”

“We are looking to work with stakeholders in the Gulf who share our vision for the protection of biodiversity”

From top: Underwater sculptures for storytelling DeepBlueSee works with local artists to create underwater sculptures

The UN’s Climate Crisis ‘Code Red Emergency’ has highlighted yet again the need for a global response to combat what is undoubtable the greatest threat to human health, welfare, and security. While this impending crisis has been well known for four decades, politics and industry lobbying have led a constant misinformation campaign, dislodging the facts, misguiding the solutions and ‘greenwashing’ their efforts.

We are at this crossroads now because of their delay tactics.

Those industries and corporations that started their efforts early have made substantial progress, and their efforts are being well rewarded.

In comparison, those beginning that journey are now frantic in their efforts, under enormous pressure to change or fail completely.

The travel and tourism industry is in this same boat, and those with real solutions will rise faster; others will fail and disappear from view.

This is not the time for incremental changes, but for totally re-thinking how solutions are to be applied in a five-year window, starting with ‘quick-fixes’ this year, and an implementation plan to achieve the needed results if the worst effects of climate change and ecological disasters are to be avoided.

The now well-publicised ESG (Environmental & Social Governance) framework gives the clue as to where to start – Governance: understanding the full range of your impact. Every government and company works within well-developed financial governance, but few have actually bothered to measure the rest of their impacts. This can only be driven by the boards of companies, as company performance now needs to measure all its impacts, and not only it’s financial returns.

TODAY’S REALITY

If the warnings from nearly two decades ago had been heeded, and the ‘Inconvenient Truth’ (Al Gore – 2006) had been taken seriously, we would not be at the critical stage we are in.

If warnings from science had been heeded 30 or even 20 years ago, it is likely we would now be moving out of the crisis, and not deeper into it. Eight of the 10 hottest years on record have occurred since 2000, with six of them recorded in the last 10 years.

Since 2000, approximately 60% of the world’s fish biomass has been removed from oceans, leaving 40% to feed us and our children.

As in indicator of the level of destruction to natural environments, the extinction rate of species is at 150 species per day.

An example being the African Elephant, with 86% of the population lost in three decades, 25% of them in just the last 10 years.

Within the GCC an estimated 80% of wildlife has disappeared in the last 40 years, (with some noticeable local government exceptions in the last 10 years), with desertification advancing at increasing rates across the region, a combination of climate change, over-grazing, over-use of water reserves and habitat removal.

Recently the World Economic Forum recorded the biggest concerns of the world’s political and business leadership for the next 10 years.

Five of the 10 highest greatest threats are environmental and climate action failure was the biggest concern.

WHO NEEDS TO BE A PART OF THE SOLUTION?

Every industry, and in particular, travel and tourism, needs to urgently create solutions within individual businesses to reduce their C-footprint.

The value chain of travel and tourism, from airlines to the construction of tourist infrastructure and facilities, from accommodation construction and hotel operators to tourism transportation and tour services, needs to consolidate and control their own businesses, know their impacts, and have a plan to meet the deadlines and targets.

And to be clear, it is not only the C-footprint that needs addressing, but the effort needed to ensure natural habitats and biodiversity is conserved, as these are the only buffers which protect us from disasters and have the ability to repair the damage being done, while absorbing the carbon we continue to produce.

Governments have a special leadership role as their rulings impact corporations and businesses, preventing ‘bad actors’ and closing down the antienvironmental lobby.

As an example: unless a government regulates (beyond nice-reading guidelines) that all timber importation must be from certified renewable forests, then one or two suppliers may do the right thing; but while their competitors ignore the

guidelines they cannot compete and ultimately the whole industry carries on business as usual – the net result is nothing changes.

CORPORATE RESPONSES TO CHALLENGES

Almost every company globally, but especially those in the energy, construction, transportation, tourism, financial and consumer services, are under scrutiny and pressure from increasing legislation on sustainability and governance reporting. Tourism is reliant and dependent on each of these sectors. The actions taken by governments are based on their international agreements and commitments.

They direct the movement towards sustainable development through changes in legislation, issuance of new regulation, and the setting of new and updated standards for the activities conducted by society and industry.

Individual companies are required to respond, and how they respond will determine their success, as their customers respond to their increased commitments to sustainability. To encourage compliance governments would typically provide incentives, awards or tax exemptions for those who meet new regulations, (or support new start-ups that meet the guidelines).

Equally fines, penalties and increased tax burden is placed on those not actively adapting. Most of the world’s leading banks and investment funds (including the World Bank) are changing policy due to new laws and scrutiny and have ceased approving loans to companies that contribute to climate-change, and do not constructively demonstrate alignment to ESG principles (this includes companies such as Deutsche Bank, Blackrock, and Standard Chartered, etc).

At the same time many businesses are moving towards ethical production and organic sourced products as consumer awareness shifts to support visibility and sustainability in the products they purchase. There are hundreds of examples of consumers changing to organic, ethical and lowimpact products. The best example is Tesla, which is now worth more than Ford and General Motors combined. Consumers are moving to reduce their own environmental impacts.

HOW TO START THE PROCESS

Organisations need to prioritise efforts to achieve ESG compliance. This has become an overriding commercial, brand and business issue for most companies, however for many the topic seems complex and unattainable.

Governance is critical, and sustainability

It's a battle on all fronts: governments, corporates and individuals, says Tony Williams, Programme Director –Tourism & Sustainability, Buro Happold

efforts must be data-driven and measurable. Understanding what your impact is begins the journey of where you need to be.

For public and private organisations sustainability is prioritised according to impact, urgency and understanding the consequences of their products and services on the environment.

In order to be effective, real changes to environmental impacts of a business need to follow a framework that prioritises the actions required to meet sustainability principles and legislation. Many major companies hide their real impacts under the ‘CSR’ label, resulting in ineffective practices, and ultimately reputational damage from ‘Greenwashing’ claims.

Some corporations, destinations and businesses have adopted various ‘Green Certification’ platforms to understand what they need to do to enhance their sustainability image. While some of these platforms are very effective, many are little more than a marketing tool and without substance or credibility. Effective certifications require real commitment, data and board-level KPIs exerted over years, but are highly effective and many reducing costs while providing great operational control and reputational boost. The over-arching advice here is get sustainability out of the PR department – it is needed in the boardroom and operations across the whole company.

GAINING CONTROL OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

Governance: understand what you consume – power, water, resources (fuel, F&B supplies, operating equipment, consumables, plastics, etc.) Use available tools to calculate your carbon footprint or utilise some of the very good certification systems that can do it for you. Measure your waste: understand how and where your operations produce waste-water, landfill and recyclable materials. Change how you purchase: in your procurement process, set standards and engage those suppliers that can provide you with what you need. Are you buying certified and ethical products from ethical suppliers? There is little point in going to the effort of enhancing your sustainability when, as as an example, your kitchen

is serving shark-fin soup, or housekeeping wraps everything in miles of plastic, or your furniture is made from illegally logged forests. At this point you are ready to study what CSR programme would capitalise on your strengths. Make this commitment long-term, effective and resilient.

THE IMPORTANCE OF NATURE CONSERVATION IN COMBATTING THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE

It is the responsibility of every government to protect a viable sample of its original native habitats and secure the nation’s biodiversity (UNEP). Nations leading biodiversity and nature protection conserve up to 50% of their land area. These countries include Bhutan (51%), Venezuela (54%), Slovenia (53%), and Costa Rica (25%) as a small island state. The global average is 10%.

In addition to these leaders, it is not surprising that countries with superior environmental protection are Finland, Sweden and Iceland because they have the largest protected areas.

Countries including Niger, Somalia and Madagascar have the worst records for environmental protection and animal welfare, however, many countries such as China and Vietnam and are making concerted efforts to improve their protections.

A special note should be on Malaysia where over the past 15 years, the government has sanctioned nearly 30% loss of its natural forests. Logging has been the prime cause of deforestation and this is a prime example of how commercial interests, particularly Palm Oil producers lobbying expansion, have been at the expense of the environment and biodiversity.

Since 2010 there has been a 42% increase in protected areas, including 22.5 million km2 (16.64%) of land and inland water ecosystems, and 28.1 million km2 (10.74%) of coastal waters. Most protected areas also protect significantly higher concentrations of biodiversity across terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems

Despite this, overall damage to ecosystems outside of protected areas has significantly increased, as over-exploitation has switched to unprotected areas. For this reason, conservation needs to be implemented at a more general level

across wider sectors and industries to ensure overexploitation and unsustainable practices do not exist within a nations’ boundaries.

Conservation practices protect what are widely known as ‘nature-services’. These are the natural processes and cycles performed by ecosystems, which buffer environments from sudden (and disastrous) changes. Diverse and natural-state habitats are self-regulating, stable and ‘free’. They recover and regenerate faster than man-made environments; they form the greatest carbon sequestration ‘sinks’, combating climatechange; they maintain biodiversity and provide regeneration sources for sustainably managed supply; and they buffer human induced damage, pollution and waste production.

THE IMPORTANCE OF NATURE CONSERVATION AND AREAS OF ‘NATURAL BEAUTY’ IN TOURISM

Without any doubt, the greatest trend in tourism (especially leisure) is the demand for experiencing a destination's areas of natural beauty, wilderness and wildlife areas. These areas drive nature, adventure, ecotourism, wellness and high-end luxury ‘soft’ adventure visitation. They are the primary USPs for destinations in their marketing; a trend that has accelerated notably since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Worldwide organisations UNEP and IUCN maintain and monitor global records on nationally proclaimed protected areas. Here, standards of conservation practice and management are reported on, and the tourism industry should focus on supporting those tourism companies which operate within protected areas.

Early conservationists, recognising the changes, set aside large and (now) valuable land and marine tracks. These pioneering efforts created some of the world-renowned wildlife reserves in existence today. These led to a deeper and wider appreciation of the value of ecosystems and habitats and the environmental services imparted by these habitats.

Tour operators, wholesalers, hotel and resort operators, and DMCs should support destinations where tourism makes a direct contribution to conservation and community-based development, rather than those which makes use of, but contribute nothing to the destination’s natural areas and community culture.

Over the past 150 years, human society has significantly disrupted marine and terrestrial ‘earthscapes’. It is essential that protected areas are expanded and made productive in a sustainable manner and the travel and tourism industry across its influential value-chain, has a vital role to play, while empowering the people and cultures dependent on them.

Nations leading biodiversity and nature protection include Bhutan

DID YOU KNOW?

Dubai sold as many room nights in 2021 as London, Paris and Oslo combined. The emirate also accounted for 1% of all room nights sold globally. The 2021 edition of the annual Dubai International Visitor Survey (DIVS) reported a net destination satisfaction score of 99.9%, which equalled its best-ever result. Dubai's net promoter score reached a record 99.9% in 2021, up from 99.4% in 2020.

As we move forward throughout 2022, we are confident that the significant momentum now gathered will accelerate even further to continue to attract not just tourists, but also investors, entrepreneurs and innovators to Dubai, enabling them to enjoy and avail themselves of all that our multi-faceted city has to offer.”

HE HELAL SAEED ALMARRI, DIRECTOR GENERAL, DUBAI DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMY AND TOURISM (DET)

Image: Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET); sources: Expo 2020 Dubai, Dubai Airports, macrotrends.net, UAE

Ain Dubai

24mn

The number of visits to Expo 2020 Dubai

55.1mn

Projected passenger traffic at Dubai International (DXB) in 2022

7.28mn

Overnight visitors to Dubai in 2021 (+32% yoy)

$72bn

Travel and tourism contribution to UAE GDP by 2027 (12.4% of GDP)

A first-choice destination

Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism & Commerce Marketing, explains why

Q: What have been the key achievements of Dubai’s tourism industry over the past 12 months?

The pandemic affected the world in every way imaginable, impacting how we live, work and travel, and this was felt in Dubai too. However, the city has returned to normality after demonstrating a high level of resilience, foresight and agility in safely navigating its way out of this unprecedented challenge under the guidance and decisive leadership of His Highness, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, followed up by His Highness, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. Over the last 12 months, Dubai has fully regained its vibrancy, reinforcing its position as a first-choice destination for international travellers. The world has placed its trust in Dubai as a safe and exciting city to travel to, and this is evident in the remarkable industry turnaround, resulting in Dubai welcoming 7.28 million international overnight visitors in 2021, representing 32% year-on-year growth. International visitation to the city surpassed 3.4 million visitors in Q4 2021, achieving 74% of the total pre-pandemic tourist arrivals of Q4 2019, and paving the way for Dubai hotels to deliver a stellar Q4 performance that surpassed pre-pandemic levels. Average occupancy reached 67% in 2021 – one of the highest occupancy levels internationally – compared to 54% the previous year. A steady stream of domestic and international investment in the hospitality sector saw inventory increase

to 755 hotel establishments and 137,950 rooms by the end of 2021, compared to 711 hotels establishments that were open with 126,947 rooms at the end of 2020. The biggest success story of the past year was, of course, Expo 2020 Dubai, which played a pivotal role in driving interest in Dubai worldwide and accelerating momentum across several sectors including tourism. As the first in-person global congregation of such magnitude since the onset of the pandemic, the six-month-long Expo, from October 1 2021 to March 31 2022, attracted 192 participating nations and more than 24 million visits by residents and leisure and business travellers from around the world. Expo 2020 made 2021 a truly momentous year for Dubai, which also celebrated the UAE’s Golden Jubilee.

As part of the city’s commitment to always offer something new, unique and world-class to every global traveller, further strides were made in broadening Dubai’s appeal with the opening of new attractions such as Ain Dubai, Deep Dive Dubai, The View at The Palm, and more recently, in February, the Museum of the Future.

The unparalleled tourism offering, combined with a multi-pronged strategy to keep Dubai open, safe and accessible, saw Dubai being voted the No.1 global destination in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2022. The Tripadvisor Awards also recognised Dubai as the world’s No.1 destination for ‘City Lovers’ and No.4 destination for ‘Food Lovers’, providing a major impetus to our efforts to build on all our destination pillars, from culture to cuisine. In two other high-profile accolades announced this year, 16 Dubai

Issam Kazim

restaurants were named in the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants’ list while Michelin announced that it will be adding Dubai to its Michelin Guide series with the first ever Michelin Guide Dubai to be launched this June. We are proud of these achievements and accolades, as they have repeatedly validated Dubai’s position as a global tourism destination. Yet, all this would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our valued stakeholders and our loyal guests.

Q: Dubai’s tourism sector was extremely resilient throughout the pandemic, standing out globally as a top performer – what factors contributed to this success?

It is important to recognise that our entire city has been resilient and determined

in overcoming the odds, thanks to our visionary leadership that inspired us to look at ways of transforming challenges into opportunities. Dubai was one of the first cities to close and go into a lockdown mode, then became one of the first to open and stay open. Dubai’s approach from the start of the pandemic has been one of preparedness, agility and consistency.

We took assertive measures from the start, becoming one of the first cities in the world to fully embrace and implement stringent safety measures in line with international practices. Once the Government of Dubai established an effective process for managing the pandemic, the focus shifted to reviving the economy, and highlighting the city’s position as one of the safest in the world. Our safety standards have been second to none and the effective citywide

management of the pandemic meant we were able to safely reopen all key sectors in the city including our domestic tourism market in May 2020, followed by opening the city to international visitors in July 2020. This focus on health and safety has led to Dubai being ranked No.1 globally in Bloomberg's Covid Resilience Ranking.

The UAE is also the single most vaccinated nation in the world, with more than 97% of the total population fully vaccinated so far, leading to increased confidence in Dubai among tourists.

In order to successfully rollout its postpandemic strategy, the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) stepped up collaboration with government and private sector partners to drive demand for domestic tourism and strictly implement the safety guidelines. In tandem with our

From above: Dubai is open, safe and accessible

Ain Dubai New attractions include the Museum of the Future

“Dubai has fully regained its vibrancy, reinforcing its position as a firstchoice destination for international travellers”

efforts to position Dubai as one of the world’s safest destinations, we also launched a series of global marketing campaigns to ensure Dubai retained its global appeal and to encourage international travellers to make the city their destination of choice once it was safe to travel. Together with our partners, we continue to take steps to instil confidence and trust in global travellers and reassure them of the city’s ability to receive guests safely and allow them to enjoy a wellrounded destination experience.

Q: The DCTCM has ramped up its global marketing and promotional campaigns – what’s been the impact? We have consistently used innovative global campaigns to further highlight the city’s multi-faceted touristic appeal and reach our international markets.

Our ongoing global campaign, Dubai Presents, featuring Hollywood stars Jessica Alba and Zac Efron launched in late 2021 and brings to life the exceptional experiences that visitors can enjoy during their stay in Dubai.

Filmed by Director’s Guild award-winning director Craig Gillespie, Dubai Presents has been rolled out in 27 countries across 16 languages via cinema, print, broadcast, out of home, digital and social media channels. It has generated more than 850 million views across multiple platforms since its launch – driving enquiries, stimulating engagement and spurring bookings.

In March, the campaign featured yet another celebrity with the release of ‘Dubai Presents: Shah Rukh Khan in Dubai’.

This latest film showcases why Dubai is a must-visit destination, as the Bollywood superstar brings into focus the best experiences that Dubai offers to international travellers.

Our Gastronomy Always On (GAON) campaign aims to reinforce Dubai’s position as a global gastronomy hub, providing support to our stakeholders in the F&B industry, as well as highlighting and promoting the city’s calendar of culinary events including the ninth edition of the much-awaited Dubai Food Festival from May 2-15, 2022. Campaigns such as these bring the destination to life and demonstrate that Dubai is continually striving to stay top-of-mind, ahead of the curve, and retain its competitiveness as a global destination.

Q: What have been the positive repercussions of Expo 2020 for Dubai’s tourism industry?

Expo 2020 marked an important milestone in Dubai’s history – becoming the first World Expo to be held in this region and the first global mega event open to the public since the start of the pandemic.

While welcoming in excess of 24 million visitors during the six months of the show, Expo 2020 delivered one of the most memorable, immersive and engaging events ever to take place in Dubai, as well as leaving a lasting legacy for the UAE and the MENASA region. Expo 2020 has ushered in an incredible new era for our tourism industry. Its success can be felt reverberating throughout the city, not just in the robust tourism industry performance in Dubai, but also in the numerous investment opportunities and providing a major boost to businesses and entrepreneurs.

Expo 2020 has made a major impact, not just on tourism, but across other sectors such as business and finance, transportation, healthcare and retail, and paved the way for a new modern metropolis, District 2020, which is set to become a fascinating attraction for travellers in the future.

Expo 2020 will place our emirate at the heart of a dynamic international agenda, enabling us to demonstrate our position as a leading global city for trade, investment and tourism.

Q: How is Dubai setting global benchmarks for destination best practice in terms of sustainability and achieving Net Zero?

We have embedded sustainability at the heart of our tourism strategy.

Dubai’s sustainability agenda dovetails with global efforts to combat climate change and preserve and protect natural bio-diversities and ecosystems, while supporting the UAE’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the UAE NetZero 2050 initiative, as well as strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading sustainable destination.

IN NUMBERS

2021

7.28mn

International overnight visitors

+32% Year-on-year growth

67% Hotel occupancy No.1

Globally in Bloomberg's Covid Resilience Ranking

2022

24mn

Expo 2020 visits No.1

Global destination in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2022.

No.1

Destination for ‘City Lovers’ No.4

Destination for ‘Food Lovers’

Bottom left: Expo has ushered a new era for tourism

Above: Domestic tourism has become a key focus

Bottom right: Dubai’s position as a global gastronomy hub is strengthening

As the travel industry continues to evolve and innovate, Dubai has launched major initiatives designed to meet the needs of a new generation of travellers who are seeking to explore destinations that are committed to sustainability.

The Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan will further reinforce the city’s diverse development programmes, as we strive to make Dubai the best city in the world to live and work in.

The recent launch of the Dubai Can initiative, the brainchild of His Highness, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, has received an overwhelming response as it encourages people to undertake simple lifestyle changes such as using refillable water bottles and public water stations and installing water filters in their homes, offices and schools to turn the tide on plastic and inspire mass action to actively reduce the use of singleuse plastic bottles.

Sustainability projects such as Dubai Can are imperative as we gear up to welcome travellers who actively seek out sustainable tourism experiences.

Q: What are the primary objectives for strengthening Dubai’s tourism sector in 2022?

We are continuing to build on the momentum of last year, as well as the recently concluded Expo 2020, with the DET looking to drive and support growth across all sectors.

Initiatives will be introduced to further increase visitor arrivals, strengthen relationships with the travel trade and explore new channels to source visitors. By highlighting Dubai’s versatility, we plan to demonstrate its position as a thriving global hub for business, tourism, gastronomy, retail and events.

We remain committed to advancing Dubai’s proposition in collaboration with city stakeholders and partners, to ensure every visitor is able to explore, experience and enjoy our diverse offering.

Beyond attracting visitors, it remains our priority to ensure that visitors, entrepreneurs and investors are provided the best incentives and opportunities and are able to take advantage of the various initiatives designed to support tourism growth, including new visa categories and programmes such as the Five Year Multi Entry Visa for employees of multinational

corporations, and the Retire in Dubai and Virtual working programmes.

While we continue to follow a diversified multi-geographic approach to markets, we will also focus on domestic tourism, which clearly played a pivotal role in driving Dubai’s tourism economy in 2020 and 2021 and is continuing to do so in 2022.

We also look forward to the opening of new attractions and infrastructure and leverage our year-round calendar of leisure and business events to attract more visitors.

As travel confidence increases, we expect to see momentum accelerating throughout 2022 and beyond, as more people discover Dubai’s wide tourism appeal.

Q: How will the destination build on its reputation as one of the world’s most in-demand destinations?

Dubai’s success is driven by its ability to evolve and adapt, based on a diversified market strategy that ensures there is no over reliance on any single market or region.

During the past year, we have welcomed a more diversified visitor profile – from global professionals to remote workers, to ‘bleisure’ travellers, to multi-generational families and international millennials, alongside our core traveller segment.

In addition to the global tourism market, we are placing emphasis on further developing the high-value domestic market. Ultimately, our goal is to strengthen our existing and emerging markets, as well as identifying new growth opportunities at home and overseas, while creating unique value and providing the best guest experience, even as we promote the city

as a global liveability hub that is home to more than 200 nationalities and delivering exceptional experiences and an outstanding quality of life.

Q: What role will digital/VR/AR play in the visitor experience?

The DET is committed to a mobile first, digital first agenda, customising its visitor experience for travellers from each source market based on the audience mix and segment preferences. These include the use of integrated mobile apps, immersive gamification, and creating unique pathways for start-ups to ensure a transformative travel experience. At the outset of the global challenge, we accelerated the use of digital platforms and remote campaigns to position Dubai as a safe destination for global travellers and sustain its international appeal. We even launched a series of digital activations across social media and digital platforms and partnered with global technology and internet leaders and digital platforms like Microsoft, Google and Snapchat to raise destination awareness in a creative way. With the growing presence of technology in the travel lifecycle, and with increasing demand for unique travel offerings and bespoke customer-centric experiences, it is crucial to stay abreast of the consumers’ rapidly evolving needs by embracing data, analytics and disruptive innovation to further raise awareness of the destination, its diversity of offerings and experiences. Hence, we foresee a future led by digital, VR and AR platforms and products that will be welcomed by both destinations and travellers.

Dubai’s diversity appeals

An island playground for all

Caesars Palace Dubai is a luxurious destination offering an exceptional range of experiences and the best of both worlds as an island retreat and an entertainment hub, close to the dynamic mainland

The hotly anticipated Caesars Palace Dubai opened on Bluewaters Island in November 2018 and has since carved a niche as an island getaway where a new style of immersive hospitality awaits. Much more than a resort, this vast complex is a fully fledged destination, offering luxurious stays, epic dining, awe-inspiring entertainment, indulgent amenities and a location that offers guests what they need, when they need it.

For some, it’s a luxury retreat where they can relax and escape the bustle of the city, while for others, it’s a gateway to fun, entertainment and a party lifestyle.

This Romanesque-inspired mega resort with a 500-metre private beach and uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf, is located next to the world’s largest observatory wheel, Ain Dubai, close to popular leisure attraction, Madame Tussauds, and just a short scenic walk from the mainland where Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and Dubai Marina await, so it’s accessible and close to all the action.

Caesars Palace Dubai is best described as an “unconventional playground for all ages”, providing an “escape from the ordinary” and where every guest is “treated like a Caesar”. Here, we round-up some of the brand’s many highlights.

STYLISH STAYS

Caesars Palace Dubai offers more than 500 stylish rooms, suites and apartments located across two towers, Palace and Julius, and The Residences. The 194 luxurious Palace rooms and suites rooms are contemporary with floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies offering panoramic views of the iconic Palm Islands. With sleek, modern design accented by subtle Romanesque motifs and airy colours, every room is a relaxed, luxury retreat, complete with marble bathrooms fitted with custom-built bathtubs, plush beds, and plenty of luxury amenities.

Julius Tower is the buzzing heart of the resort with a lively

energy and ideal for families, business travellers and groups of friends.

The 301 rooms and suites are softly toned, stylish and comfortable, with living spaces, marble bathrooms, floor-toceiling windows and balconies overlooking the gardens, private beach and shoreline of Bluewaters Island and the Arabian Sea.

The Residences at Caesars Palace Dubai offers 80 one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom fully furnished contemporary residences with kitchens. They are perfect for longer stays, offering guests a home-away-from-home vibe with access to all hotel

MIND-BLOWING GASTRONOMY

The dining portfolio at Caesars Palace

Dubai is a real feast for the senses. Here’s the rundown of tantalising options:

Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen

Celebrity Chef Gordon Ramsay's second Hell’s Kitchen location at Caesars Palace

Dubai, serving the same combination of show-stopping theatre and world-class cooking as its original Las Vegas location. A red-andblue open kitchen is the centre piece, making guests feel like they are on the TV studio set.

On the menu are Ramsay classics such as pan-seared scallops, lobster risotto, Beef Wellington and sticky toffee pudding.

Thursdays and Fridays play host to a fun culinary challenge between the red and blue kitchen teams in the Battle of the Menus; Saturdays are a fiery experience with the Hell’s Kitchen Brunch; and on Sundays,

guests are treated to Gordon’s Family Lunch –a traditional British roast.

Demon Duck

Diners experience Chinese and Asian classics with a creative twist at Demon Duck, a new signature Chinese restaurant by Three Michelin starred Chef Alvin Leung. A global celebrity TV personality famously known as the “Demon Chef”, Chef Alvin brings high energy ambience, eccentric and playful theatricality, inspired mixology and a superlative menu of Pan Asian dishes at his debut restaurant in the Middle East.

TakaHisa

TakaHisa brings the most authentic Japanese fine-dining experience to Dubai with its

unforgettable combination of premium sushi and wagyu beef offerings.

With fresh seafood sourced from Toyosu Market and the highest-grade wagyu brand in the world, ‘A5 Kobe Beef’, TakaHisa's skilled Master Chefs prepare a special Omakase course that delivers a sensational Japanese culinary masterpiece.

Venus Ristorante & Beach Club

Venus Ristorante & Beach Club is the place to enjoy breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai Marina skyline while feasting on Amalfi-coast-inspired, Mediterranean classics – from mouthwatering appetisers, wood-fired pizzas, and homemade pasta, to perfectly grilled meats and seafood – and sipping on Italian cocktails and granitas.

An idyllic island setting, close to urban activity

Demon Duck

TakaHisa

Bacchanal

Inspired by its highly acclaimed sibling at Caesars Palace Las Vegas, guests can do as the Ancient Romans did and satisfy their cravings by consuming freshly prepared international favourites at the famous Bacchanal Breakfast Buffet. For dinner, French classics such as Moules Frites Marinière, Foie gras poêlé and Mille-Feuilles complement the French Brasserie-style setting.

Havana Social Club

The Havana Social Club is a vibrant venue that pays homepage to 1920s Cuba. It serves an extensive menu of classic Cuban cocktails, mojitos and the Caribbean’s finest concoctions, plus authentic Latin flavours and a curated cigar collection. It’s a cool hideout where guests relax and unwind to live Latin beats and entertainment.

Fortuna Pool & Bar

With epic views of the Arabian Gulf, Fortuna Pool & Bar provides a relaxing atmosphere for the entire family to enjoy. Serving a menu of classic and modern comfort dishes and a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic cocktails, it’s the perfect place to spend a lazy day.

Neptune Pool & Bar

Dip into a refreshing day of sophisticated fun at Neptune Pool, Bar & Beach, relaxing in our picturesque temperature-controlled pool, luxurious loungers and decadent cabanas, with delicious cocktails, beachside shisha and the most stunning views!

Roman Lounge

By day, it serves hot drinks, savoury bites and tempting French pastries and at sunset, it’s the hotspot for cocktails, shisha, Moroccan tagines and an array of Arabian desserts.

ROYAL INDULGENCE

A veritable island retreat, Caesars Palace Dubai offers leisure, wellness, relaxation and recreational opportunities galore. Guests can unwind on the 500-metre private beach, lounge around one of the five outdoor chilled pools, enjoy some royal pampering at Qua Spa, unwind, drink and dine at the Venus Ristorante & Beach Club, chill out at the Roman Lounge or, for the ultimate daycation, live it up at Cove Beach, a seafront destination featuring a restaurant, a unique Rosé Lounge, and three swimming pools.

For family fun: Families visiting with young children are well catered to with the Empire Club, designed for “mini Caesars” aged 3 to 12, offering a creative programme of activities and events including indoor games, cooking classes and movie nights under the stars. In keeping with the resort’s Roman theme, Gladiator Training, Roman Games, and Boat Building Challenges are all on the agenda.

For young guests aged 13 to 17, ROAM Teens Club offers the chance to socialise. This creative space boasts a high-tech arcade atmosphere through various game zones and virtual reality.

Outdoor activities for all include thrilling watersports ranging from jet skiing and wake boarding to sea bob and banana boat rides.

For fitness and wellness: Guests get the royal treatment at Qua Spa, an award-winning wellness concept from Las Vegas. Japanese technologies meld with signature luxurious treatments for mind, face, body and soul to ensure rejuvenation, balance and pure relaxation. Popular treatments

include the age-defying Arabian Gold Facial and revolutionary Detox Dome treatment. Beverly Hills Vitamin Therapy and Young LDN’s beauty treatments for skin conditions and body contouring are also available. For those seeking to de-stress and build stamina, the fitness centre offers multifunctional TechnoGYM equipment and fitness classes such as Mindful Yoga, Meditation, Sunset Yoga, Core Stretching, High Intensity Training, Kick Boxing and Personal Training.

Venus Ristorante & Beach Club

Roman Lounge

Qua Spa, an award-winning wellness concept from Las Vegas

A REAL CROWD PLEASER

Guests can’t get enough of Caesars Palace Dubai, drawn to its multi-faceted destination experiences, explains Regional President Anthony Costa, and there’s a new ultra-luxe product launching soon, he reveals

Q: In a market that’s full of dynamic hotel brands, what makes Caesars Palace Dubai different?

Dubai has so much to offer as a destination and we are very fortunate to be part of this amazing journey. Caesars Palace Dubai is special for a variety of reasons – we are located on a self-contained island with stunning ocean views, a beautiful beach and within walking distance of a variety of world-class attractions.

When guests stay with us, they are spoiled for choice with things to do, see and experience – luxuriously comfortable rooms, incredible dining from celebrity chef restaurants, cool bars, a 500-metre private beach, lots of fun activities for the little ones, and a great service and atmosphere.

Caesars Palace feels like an idyllic island escape, and when you are missing the city, we’re just a short, scenic walk across the footbridge to JBR and Dubai Marina.

Q: How has the property carved its niche?

We are very fortunate that our complex has something for everybody – from private areas for adults, beach clubs, spaces for families with young and older children to areas for couples or groups of friends to play, relax and explore – across 1.7km of real estate. This facilitates our ability to craft experiences to appeal to every market and all ages.

We welcome guests from all over the world, particularly from markets like th UK, Russia,

Germany, France, India and closer to home, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Q: The domestic market is booming –what trends have you noticed in this respect?

Our awareness has grown within the region and we are fortunate to be considered among the top hospitality brands today.

The nature of the market is fast evolving, dynamic and flourishing with new developments all the time. In that respect, Caesars Palace Dubai is a young, fresh brand with much to offer across dining, recreation, entertainment and experiences. Guests from the UAE and the GCC tend to have shorter booking lead times.

Their first visit may be quick, but they always return to experience different parts of the resort, staying for longer every time.

Q: How has the property contributed to Dubai’s thriving gastronomic scene?

We’ve evolved our dining portfolio since we opened. As a leading dining destination, we are not only popular with hotel guests, but with residents from our surrounding communities including Bluewaters Island, Jumeirah Beach Residence and Dubai Marina.

We’ve got something to suit every taste, palate and mood, including Michelin-chef-helmed restaurants like Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen; our newly opened Demon Duck by Hong Kongbased Michelin chef Alvin Leung; Mediterranean flair at our Amalfi-

coast inspired Venus Ristorante; authentic sushi and the best wagyu in Dubai at TakaHisa; a taste of Cuba at Havana Social Club; and great mixology at our Neptune & Fortuna Pool Bars and Venus Beach Club. And there’s more to come, with new dining projects launching later this year.

Q: How is business in 2022 and what are the prospects for the rest of the year? We have had a great start to 2022. Occupancies across both towers and our residences are stronger than ever, setting us on a good pace for the remainder of the year.

Our reputation and awareness in key markets has strengthened with the right product being pitched to the right people and our team consistent in delivering amazing service. As a result, we’re seeing our residences running full all year round. Palace Tower is starting to be exceptionally busy with young adults and couples looking for a chic, sophisticated getaway, and families choosing the vibrancy of our Julius Tower. The pandemic restrictions easing around the world has been good news for the travel market, and we are glad to see our international guests returning.

Q: What’s new at Caesars –and what’s coming soon? Right now, we are gearing up to launch two new exciting new products. In early May 2022 we will launch our Beach Club stays

for guests seeking a lively, party holiday with rooms overlooking Cove Beach Club and built-in exclusive benefits.

The big one coming this Fall 2022, is our Villa; an ultra-luxe, 10-bedroom luxury retreat with its own private beach, Majilis, beach, gym, customised amenities, the finest linens and toiletries and a personalised high-touch service. For high-end guests seeking exclusivity and privacy, the Villa will be a very exciting draw. In addition, two more great dining concepts will be announced in the near future.

Q: How is Bluewaters Island shaping up as a destination within a destination?

Bluewaters is a new destination in Dubai, and visitors are really enjoying the community on our doorstep. The island brings the charm and exclusivity of island living with the exuberance of a sophisticated, urban lifestyle.

People are discovering the diversity, uniqueness, and island getaway feel of Bluewaters – all within easy, walking reach. The biggest delight is the island’s ability to attract and lure visitors back.

Families spend a day exploring and then return to stay longer with a hotel stay included. No matter your age, length of stay and where you are coming from, the island is a destination with something for everybody – beaches, restaurants, bars, party energy, a beautiful seaside promenade.

The master bedroom at the ‘Villa’ – the upcoming 10-bedroom luxury retreat

Ahead of the Curve

For 13 years, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has been facilitating social, cultural, environmental and economic development in Sharjah by enhancing the emirate’s appeal across multiple fields. The authority’s portfolio of large-scale real estate, tourism, commercial and hospitality projects are improving the quality of life of residents and furthering Sharjah’s economic diversification policy by boosting the emirate’s investment environment across all verticals.

Today, Shurooq leads a diversified portfolio of 35 completed and ongoing infrastructure projects valued at more than AED 12 billion (US$3.27 billion) and covering an area of more than 12 million sqm across Sharjah’s western, central and eastern regions.

Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer

Over the past year, it has built on this position of strength with the launch of

Shurooq continues to break boundaries in 2022, creating personalised experiences that meet demand for luxury, experiential and eco-conscious travel, explains Acting Chief Executive Officer, Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer

several new projects. In May last year the authority opened Mysk Moon Retreat, the latest addition to the Sharjah Collection brand. Set in the shadow of Fossil Rock amidst the sand dunes of Mleiha, this is a first-of-its-kind luxury glamping destination and comprises 10 single-bed domes, eight of which have private pools, four family tents with private pools, and two single-bed tents. Each unit is

self-sufficient and fitted with amenities including a private barbeque area. There is also a lobby and a common area.

Last year also saw Shurooq announce plans for the AED 87 million ($23.69 million) Al Hira Beach project in Sharjah city, which will transform the entire Al Fisht area into a vibrant, colourful and fully serviced corniche destination with facilities including children’s playgrounds, restaurants, cafés and retail outlets.

And in November 2021, Shurooq appointed Singapore-based The Lux Collective, a luxury hospitality management company, to manage two new hospitality projects set in Sharjah’s scenic central and east coast regions.

The nature-inspired LUX* Al Jabal Resort in Khorfakkan, located on a spectacular terrain hill overlooking a beach, will feature 45 eco-friendly units and suites that open out to expansive views of aquamarine waters and a jagged mountain range, and is expected to welcome guests in March 2023. LUX* Al Bridi Resort in Al Dhaid is located next to the newly opened Sharjah Safari, the

largest conservation park in the region and the largest wildlife safari in the world outside Africa.

Also scheduled for a 2023 opening, this property will offer various types of animal encounters under safe and secure conditions and comprises of 35 luxurious private tents and the LUX* Me Spa.

November also saw Shurooq unveil its plans for Nomad, a first-of-its-kind tourism project in the region, offering fully equipped travel trailers that aim to offer close-to-nature travel experiences for families and adventure enthusiasts.

The following month, in December 2021, the authority rounded off a stellar year with the launch of the Khorfakkan Beach expansion project in Sharjah’s Eastern region.

PROJECT UPDATE

Shurooq has several projects under development, and one that’s set to transform communities across the emirate is a 28,000 sqm five-star hotel and waterpark in Khorfakkan.

This property will feature 75 luxurious units, the first waterpark on the UAE’s East Coast, a shopping complex, restaurant, gym, spa, marina, and residential units.

This hospitality project will operate under Marriott International’s Autograph Collection and marks the debut of the global hospitality brand in Sharjah. Another large-scale project Shurooq is currently developing in the retail and entertainment sector is the Kalba Waterfront, the first waterfront destination

Below: The Al Hira Beach

with integrated services in Kalba, while under the Phase 2 expansion of Khorfakkan Beach project, the current 1.5-km stretch of beach will be extended to 2.5km and will include a series of restaurants and cafés along the beach, a fully equipped gym, fountain and other attractions and facilities.

Reflecting increased demand for outdoor authentic experiences, expansion plans are also underway for Mysk Al Badayer Retreat, set in the heart of the Badayer desert, which will house 15 new tents, while at Mysk Kingfisher Retreat in Kalba – a unique nature retreat in the UAE – 20

more luxurious tents with one, two, three and four bedrooms will be added.

The “enabling business environment” in Sharjah, coupled with high-quality infrastructure, a wealth of cultural capital, and diverse natural landscapes, have been “instrumental” in shaping Shurooq’s strategy of offering more diversified tourism products such as luxury and ecoretreats, and leisure and entertainment destinations, says Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Shurooq.

“Working in close collaboration with Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) to

firmly put the emirate on the world tourism map, Shurooq has been strengthening the emirate’s standing as an ideal sustainable tourism destination with projects that pay homage to its natural landscapes and cultural heritage,” he says. “Sharjah is a well-developed tourism destination in the region, and our diversified portfolio of projects align with the emirate’s policies and plans aimed at boosting the competitiveness of the sector and driving long-term profitability, innovation, and growth. Shurooq’s sustainable projects are key catalysts in enabling and mobilising tourism investments across Sharjah, most notably in projects with cross-sectoral impact.”

AHEAD OF TREND

As a prominent industry stakeholder, Shurooq breaks boundaries by staying ahead of the global travel trends and creating personalised experiences that meet the luxury, experiential or eco-conscious travel needs of visitors, continues Al Qaseer.

This shift towards authenticity and demand from discerning clientele to experience destinations in unusual ways is realised through several of Shurooq’s projects, most notably The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah and those under the Sharjah Collection brand managed by Mysk by Shaza, which includes the Mysk Kingfisher Retreat in Kalba, Mysk Al Faya Retreat in Mleiha, Mysk Al Badayer Retreat, and Mysk Moon Retreat.

“These projects, which show a respect for their natural

“We aim to translate Sharjah’s ambitions of economic diversification, rooted in the principles of sustainable development”

Khorfakkan Hotel and waterpark

and cultural environment, are further attracting and promoting long-term sustainable investments into the emirate,” notes Al

Qaseer.

SUSTAINABILITY FIRST

Today, sustainability, preservation of natural resources, and net zero strategies are high priorities for any developer, he says.

“As we continue to evolve, our focus will be firmly on development that is beneficial in the long run to both the planet and its people. This commitment to sustainability will be evident in all our forthcoming projects as we aim to drive deeper impact through our environmentally conscious journey,” he notes.

One of Shurooq’s pioneering projects raising the sustainability quotient in the emirate is the AED 2 billion ($545 million) Sharjah Sustainable City – the first fully integrated, Net Zero Energy residential community in Sharjah. Developed in partnership with Diamond Developers, what makes this project unique is that when complete, it will be powered entirely by renewable energy produced by solar panels, while recycling plants onsite will recycle 100% of both water and waste.

“This mixed-use project is a showcase of carbon-free sustainable living and with bio dome greenhouses and sustainable farming plans in place, it is leading to a demand for more investments in world-class infrastructure that embody the concept of sustainable living,” stresses Al Qaseer. “Our four projects developed under the Sharjah Collection brand and operated and managed by “Mysk by Shaza”, further exemplify Shurooq’s environmentally conscious journey.

The focus on environmental protection and conservation of a globally important wetland is what sets apart the Mysk Kingfisher Retreat where every aspect of its construction to the choice of building materials and design elements stem from a deep respect to the needs of sensitive flora and fauna of this natural reserve.

“By repurposing what remained of a stone structure originally constructed during the 1960s with sustainable and robust materials, Mysk Al Faya Retreat drives our environmental commitment even further. Both Mysk Al Badayer Retreat and Mysk Moon Retreat are also ecoretreats that are mindful of the unique ecosystems they are set in, and where a host of sustainable practices are implemented and practiced. With the UAE integrating the 17 Sustainable Development Goals under the UN’s 2030 Agenda, Sharjah is “committed to promoting inclusive and sustainable growth with responsible investments in all sectors”. Shurooq’s developmental goals stem from “a clear understanding of maintaining harmony and a balance with our natural environment”, notes Al Qaseer. Shurooq’s Sharjah Sustainable City Project, he says, “reflects our commitment to promote the green economy culture in Sharjah and the UAE and is aligned with SDG 11 that aims to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. This fully integrated Net Zero Energy community has been designed to fulfil the needs of a growing urban community, providing them with the highest standards of living without harming the Earth’s resources. “Shurooq also aims to deliver on the key goals of SDG 6, ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all through a public-private partnership with infrastructure firm, Besix, to operate an existing wastewater treatment plant at Al Saja’a in Sharjah.”

Al Qaseer stresses that while sustainable tourism practices have driven the industry’s momentum, Shurooq and Sharjah are “moving to the next step where the focus is on working together and evolving with the environment, people and the local businesses through the framework of tourism”.

“By improving the quality of life of local people, regenerative tourism helps communities and tourism sites to continuously renew themselves,” he says. “This shift offers opportunities for travellers to be involved in the preservation of

tourist destinations while operators will go beyond mere carbon offsetting strategies to offer a more measurable and positive impact on the environment.” Heading into the second half of 2022, Shurooq is “committed to developing projects that benefit citizens, residents, and visitors alike,” stresses Al Qaseer.

“We aim to translate Sharjah’s ambitions of economic diversification, rooted in the principles of sustainable development as the core of its investment strategy. To bring this vision to reality, Shurooq will continue to work with investors and build effective economic partnerships to develop projects that meet the needs of the communities in Sharjah and enhance the cultural and architectural fabric of the emirate. As a participant of the comprehensive construction and development processes, Shurooq will continue to expand the scope of strategic sustainable investment opportunities in Sharjah, strengthening its appeal as a cultural and investment hub in the region.”

Above: Mysk Kingfisher retreat

UNWTO

DID YOU KNOW?

TEE TIME

“Mega sports events such as the Olympics and World Cups can be a catalyst for tourism development if successfully leveraged in terms of destination branding, infrastructure development and other economic and social benefits.”

(Sources: UNWTO, Allied Market Research, KPMG)

Skiing is one of the two largest sports tourism industries globally

Golf and skiing are the two largest sports tourism industries globally

The US is a golfing powerhouse with 40% of the world’s golf courses

Jumpstartingsports tourism in the Gulf

WIhen it comes to sport, few things compare to being part of the excitement and roar of a crowd, whether you’re pitch, pool or track side. That excitement has been missing for the last couple of years as large gatherings for live sport were one of the first and hardest hit sectors when pandemic-related restrictions were first implemented.

As we tentatively enter the post-COVID recovery period, people are just starting to travel again to watch and cheer on their favourite team or to take part in adventure sports or a mass participation event.

Globally, some cities such as Townsville in Australia have specifically set out to attract sports events and championships as an intrinsic part of the region’s economic and social recovery from the pandemic.

The release of all this latent demand reflects the fact that sports tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in global tourism and even before the pandemic, sports tourism represented 10% of the world’s tourism industry, with a turnover of about US$800 billion according to UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) figures.

So-called mega events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games and FIFA World Cups have demonstrated the potential to drive urban regeneration, create employment and can be a catalyst for longer-term tourism development.

Ten years on from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, two business districts have set up at the Olympic Park, 25,000 jobs have been created, and 11,000 homes have been built. However, despite the reforms introduced by several of the biggest rights holders to make bidding and hosting more affordable, only a relatively small group of global cities have the capability and money to bid for and host mega events. Even then, they often struggle to

capture the public’s imagination and the support needed; many bids for mega events in recent years have collapsed when put to a referendum as the cost-benefit analysis is often unconvincing.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SMALLER

Outside of the mega sport events circuit, an increasing number of cities and towns are recognising that bigger is not always better and that a balanced portfolio of smaller or lower profile sport and other events not only require less public investment to get off the ground but still have the potential to attract a steady flow of visitors, generate regional and sometimes international publicity, boost the local economy, strengthen community spirit and reinforce their image and reputation.

This is especially the case for emerging sports tourism ‘players’ with perhaps strong natural or existing built assets and good accessibility looking to looking to establish themselves on the sports tourism map.

The Cayman Islands is one example. The British Overseas Territory has a population of less than 70,000 but in recent years, it has hosted the Intertrust Marathon (a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon), Flowers Sea Swim, which attracts more than 1,000

participants and the Classic Basketball Tournament, a pre-season mens’ division 1 college tournament that attracts teams from across North America.

In the Gulf, both Oman and Jordan have established themselves as emerging destinations for adventure sports tourism.

In Jordan, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) estimates that the adventure sports and travel sector can create up to 500 formal jobs and generate more than $10 million in direct and indirect revenue generation for micro and small enterprises (MSEs).

So, what are some of the key strategic considerations when planning sport events (big or small) and activities to spur lasting, positive legacies in host communities?

HAVE A CLEAR VISION AND PLAN

The most successful event hosts and sports tourism destinations have a vision statement that captures their desired ultimate outcome – event hosting is an increasingly competitive market and it will only be those destinations that show clear vision and leadership that will succeed.

Preparing a simple strategy document also gives direction, provides mechanisms for

Andy Preece, a Director of the Buro Happold Sport and Entertainment Consultancy Group, explains the key strategic considerations for destinations planning sports events and maximising their tourism legacy

Desert X Prix AlUla, April 2021

resourcing event organisations, identifies the benefits and how these will be measured and encourages and recognises volunteers.

A key outcome of an event hosting or a sports tourism strategy is a process or set of guidelines to help inform the events to prioritise and to invest in as all too often, decisions about which events to bid for are not made strategically, but in response to short-term pressures, which are frequently political. When considering bidding for or creating an event, the decision makers should ask: “Is this event better than all the other ones out there that we could be bidding for and why?”

FUND CREATIVELY

The City of Round Rock in Texas has developed a successful sports tourism programme – Go Round Rock! – that generates $16 million in economic activity every year by hosting national, state and regional tournaments in a wide range of sports. The 9 % Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) paid by visitors who stay in one of Round Rock’s 4,544 hotel rooms has paid for nearly all of the facilities and programmes focused on sports tourism, most of which were built and are maintained with HOT funds.

ALIGN WITH EXISTING ASSETS, VALUES AND THEMES

Sport events and adventure sports provide great opportunities for destinations to promote and strengthen their existing natural and built tourist attractions and align to the destination’s demographic without the need to necessarily invest heavily in new infrastructure.

Building on Extreme E’s 2021 inaugural X Prix in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, which attracted a cumulative worldwide audience of 18.7 million, the opening race of the second season also took place in Saudi Arabia at NEOM, showcasing the dramatic desert landscape and highlighting the impact of climate change in the world.

ABOUT

Andy Preece

Queenstown in New Zealand has also successfully capitalised on its adventure tourism credentials and brand to develop the Queenstown Winter Festival, a hallmark event that has been hosted annually since 1975 and attracts more than 45,000 people with a global reach of 89 million.

THINK OFF-PEAK

Sport is a year-round pastime, but an effective event hosting or sports tourism strategy should particularly look to promote events during the slower tourism periods (shoulder and off-peak months) when accommodation is more readily available and more affordable. One of the world’s leading superyacht destinations, Porto Montenegro, off the Bay of Kotor in Tivat, Montenegro, has created high-profile invitational sports events such as triathlons and adventure races that capitalise on the dramatic coastal and mountain landscape.

The Malta Tourism Authority and the Malta Sports Council worked together to increase tourism during off-peak and shoulder months by offering subsidies to the National Sports Associations per number of hotel beds booked during sports events This incentive generated 60,000 additional ‘bednights’ over an initial three-year period.

PACKAGE AND INCENTIVISE

The Travel Activities and Motivations Survey (TAMS), which looks at the travel patterns of Americans and Canadians, suggests sport tourists are also more likely than your ‘average’ tourist to attend festivals, concerts and live theatre during their stay – many of these attractions are already on offer in established and emerging travel destinations throughout the world. Generating the greatest benefits from smaller-scale sport events and sport tourism lies not only in promoting the event or activity but giving sport tourists reasons to arrive at the destination earlier, stay later and spend more. To do this, tourism boards and sports bodies need to work together

Andy Preece is a Director of the Buro Happold Sport and Entertainment Consultancy Group and has worked as a management consultant in the sport, tourism and events sectors for more than 32 years. Andy has held senior roles with some of the leading global consultancy and multidisciplinary firms and has completed sport tourism strategic planning projects for the Barbados Ministry of Tourism, the City of Ottawa, Tourism British Colombia, Porto Montenegro, NEOM and Diriyah Gate. In the major events sector, Andy has helped cities, local organising committee’s and international federations evaluate, bid for, plan for and deliver multi-sport and single sport major events with a particular focus on legacy planning and implementation.

to create attractive travel packages and incentives, such as discounted hotel rates for particular sport events and associated cultural programmes. For larger events, creating a dedicated stakeholder group or bidding organisation can help promote collaboration and align different agendas.

SUCCESS THROUGH ASSOCIATION

An increasing number of destinations are recognising the value of developing their own hallmark events which tend to be recurring events developed mainly to enhance the awareness, appeal and profitability of a tourism destination. Over time they become intrinsically associated with the destination (Melbourne being a prime example) and can be tailor-made to generate specific benefits for the host community. For example, the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens has been taking place since 1969 and has featured in the World Rugby Sevens Series for 16 consecutive years, attracting more than 100,000 attendees each year and an estimated 593 hours of television coverage across 359m households in 145 countries.

The Gulf region has already enjoyed significant success securing a number of mega events such as the FIFA 2022 World Cup in Qatar and the 2030 and 2034 Asian Games in Qatar and Riyadh respectively.

Top sports tourism destinations however have built their success around a broad portfolio of events of different sizes (and complementary cultural and business events), recognising that different events result in different impacts and can play a key role in driving city-wide economic and social objectives rather than just being seen a good thing in their own right.

Long-term success also requires destinations to clarify, articulate and exploit their USPs and differentiators and this will be critical as the event and sports tourism sector becomes ever more crowded in the region.

Emirates Dubai 7s stadium December 2021

Saudi gets sporty

A new KPMG report highlights the kingdom’s vast sports tourism potential

Sports tourism is not a new concept. Golf and ski trips have been trending for decades and remain the most popular globally and long have tourists travelled across the world to attend the Olympics or a World Cup.

“However, the sports tourism industry has more recently grown in countries that haven’t traditionally been sports destinations or hosts of major sporting events,” says a new report by KPMG.

“These countries noticed the economic and broader societal impacts of sport tourism and wanted their piece of the pie.” That pie is a big one, with UNWTO pre-pandemic figures revealing that sports tourism generates 12 to 15 million international arrivals each year and represents 10% of the world’s tourism industry, with a turnover of about US$800 billion.

One country advancing agendas to build a sporting culture that attracts domestic and international tourists is Saudi Arabia.

The sports sector currently contributes around 0.2% of the kingdom’s GDP, while the tourism sector contributes about 3%, according to the Ministry of Sport and the Ministry of Tourism.

The two ministries have ambitious targets for growth, with sports contributing 0.6% of GDP and tourism 10% by 2030.

One obvious sector for development, therefore, is sports tourism.

The KPMG report, entitled Competitive edge: The unfolding potential for sports tourism in Saudi Arabia, highlights a model of four different categories of sports tourism:

Destination-dependent tourism

This category highlights the kingdom’s vast natural infrastructure as a major pull factor for sports tourism. It includes activities such as diving and watersports on the Red Sea coast, mountain climbing, as well as desert activities such as rally racing, running, cycling, and motor and quad biking.

Alternative location sports tourism

This recognises the role sports tourists play close to home when they are not on vacation. The sport – or entire vacation – is enhanced by the destination. A key example here is golf, with the

The Dakar Rally 2020, Jeddah to Riyadh

Golf tourism potential: the Dubai success story

Golf tourism was recently valued at $22.9 billion, with more than 50 million golf tourists traveling the world to play on some of the estimated 40,000 courses. In Dubai, golf tourism contributes around $40 million to the economy. The emirate was recently ranked sixth (along with Abu Dhabi) in a list of the top world golf destinations, behind Spain, Portugal, Scotland, Turkey and Ireland. Dubai’s now-thriving golf industry got its start through public funding. The Emirates Golf Club, founded in 1988 as the emirate’s first golf club, and the Dubai Creek Golf Club, founded in 1993, were both funded by the Engineering Office of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. The office’s philosophy was to build the golf industry from the ground up. Once the two clubs were established and attracting customers, private sector players recognised the market potential and began establishing competing clubs. Eventually, both golf clubs were transferred to a private sector entity which further developed and monetised the properties. Today, Dubai’s golf courses stage widely viewed global golfing events. The European Tour promotes its season as ‘The Race to Dubai’, which culminates with the DP World Tour Championship at the Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai. Dubai’s courses are also host to the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, held in 2021 for the 32nd year, and the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters.

LEVERAGING SAUDI’S GEOGRAPHY FOR SPORT

The Red Sea Diving: excellent year-round visibility, few currents, untouched waters, pristine reefs. Sailing: warm year-round waters and consistent winds. In 2019, Saudi Arabia hosted its first sailing championships. Kiteboarding: the east coast’s wind and water conditions are suited to this sport.

landscape and coastline of Saudi Arabia providing an outstanding and spectacular environment for the sport.

Participation-driven sports tourism

This is the least explored aspect of sports tourism but has potential as the country continues to open up to tourists, enabling mass participation in sports such as desert running and cycling races.

Spectator sports tourism

This refers to multi-sports games such as the Olympics, Asian Games, Asia Cup, World Cup, Formula One, etc. This is an area already being explored with events such as the F1 being staged in Jeddah.

Competitive fishing: the Red Sea is rich in marine life. In 2019, the first Red Sea International Sport Fishing Tournament attracted 30 teams from around the world.

Desert and mountains: According to NASA, 95% of Saudi Arabia is desert, while there are several mountain ranges across the western Hejaz region. This makes the kingdom ideal for hiking, rallycross, mountain climbing and extreme sports. KSA is the new host for the Dakar Rally, hosting the event for two consecutive years, in 2020 and 2021.

SAUDI'S SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE

Stadiums: large stadiums and sports complexes are crucial for hosting global sporting events and the kingdom currently has 23 stadiums with a capacity of 10,000 spectators or more, according to the Saudi Press Agency. However, only three of these stadiums were built later than 1995 according to World Stadiums statistics, indicating a need for more modern stadiums.

NEOM: the $500 billion, 10,000-square-mile project in northwest Saudi Arabia is focusing on the sports industry for one of its 14 core ideological concepts. Adventure sports are key to these plans as NEOM leverages its natural beauty. Its recent partnerships include the Dakar Rally, Mercedes-Benz EQ Formula E Team and the Asian Football Confederation.

AlUla: Home to Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the north-western area of the Kingdom, is under rapid development and lends itself to sports including horse riding, hiking, sandboarding and dune bashing. It has hosted major international sports events like the Saudi Tour (cycling) and desert polo.

The Red Sea Project & Amaala: Amaala, the ultra-luxury tourism project being built along the Red Sea coast, will be home to a sports performance academy, an equestrian resort and polo academy, and provide facilities for golf, tennis and falconry. Its Red Sea location lends itself to marine sports like diving, fishing and sailing sports. The Red Sea Project will offer a variety of sports, including scuba diving, rock climbing, trekking, parachuting, golf, tennis and football.

Qiddiya: this entertainment mega-project located outside of Riyadh has outlined a strategy to become a centre for sports-related entertainment. Its plans include developing a Jack Nicklaus Championship Golf Course, a speed park built around an FIA grade 1 racetrack, a multi-sports stadium and aquatic centre, karts facilities and dedicated sport centres for kids and women.

The Red Sea Project

Ready for kick off

Qatar Tourism COO Berthold Trenkel provides an update on FIFA World Cup preparations

Q: What progress has been made with preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™?

Qatar Tourism’s mission is to create an unparalleled worldleading experience for visitors to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and as such, an extensive tourism development programme is underway. There are more than 100 hotel and hotel apartments currently under construction, several of which will be completed in time for the World Cup. The recent metro system, Uber and taxi services are being developed further to make getting to and around the country an easy and seamless experience. We’re also making several improvements to tourism assets, such as beaches, traditional dhow boats, museums and sites of natural beauty, to ensure travellers see the best of Qatar outside of the World Cup football matches.

Q: What guest experiences do you have planned to ensure visitors stay in Qatar for as long as possible?

Qatar Tourism’s extensive tourism development programme includes

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

November 21 – December 18, 2022

the construction of many new resorts, hotels and hotel apartments, restaurants, leisure projects and activities, ensuring there all types of travellers and budgets are catered to. Qatar is a land that packs an unexpected plurality of exciting cultural and natural adventures all into one sun-swept coastal peninsula where everything is within easy reach.

Travellers can enjoy the country’s spectacular sandy beaches and water sports, alongside an everexpanding selection of premium spas and four- and five-star hotels.

Visitors can experience aweinspiring architecture, traditional souqs, and world-class museums, as well as cuisines ranging from local and traditional fare to modern and international gastronomy – all with the promise of first-class hospitality. Qatar is host to a wide range of world-class events including the Qatar ExxonMobil Open, Commercial Bank Golf Masters, Qatar Grand Prix, as well as Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition and Doha Winter Wonderland, opening in November 2022, to name a few. There is something for everyone in Qatar and we welcome travellers

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ will mark the first time the world’s largest football tournament has been hosted in the Middle East. Fans will be able to watch more than two live matches per day, with all stadiums located within a 55km (35 mile) radius of Doha and within 75km of one another, ensuring the tournament is extremely accessible for supporters who want to travel from one match to the next.

from around the world to visit the destination and ‘Experience a World Beyond’.

Q: What is the expected economic and tourism contribution of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ ?

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ will play an integral role in achieving the National Vision, which aims to establish Qatar as a world-leading destination, with a view to attracting more than six million visitors annually by 2030, tripling the 2019 level.

To achieve this vision, Qatar Tourism is expanding and diversifying the tourism proposition extensively and putting the visitor at the heart of all new programmes and initiatives.

Q: What will be the event’s tourism legacy?

We’re investing in world-class infrastructure to create a dynamic and more diversified economy beyond the energy sector, driving the development of the private sector and fields such as tourism so they become key GDP drivers.

Our role at Qatar Tourism is to continue to evolve the tourism experience by promoting new hotel developments, theme parks, restaurants, shops, and major leisure projects in the lead-up to, during, and beyond the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.

We are cementing the foundations for guests to have a safe, exciting and unforgettable

experience while in Qatar. We have also enhanced the digital ecosystem for travellers, with a new website launched, VisitQatar.com, available in six languages and supported by the Personalised Travel Companion mobile app, designed to showcase our destination.

Q: With Qatar now staging a medley of sporting events, including, most recently, the Formula 1 Grand Prix and MotoGP Championship, what is the value of sports tourism to Qatar?

We have hosted and supported several international sporting events. In 2022, these have included the Qatar ExxonMobil Open and Qatar TotalEnergies Open (tennis), Commercial Bank Golf Masters, MotoGP, and, in 2021, these events plus Formula One and the FIFA Arab Cup.

International and domestic tourism is extremely important to Qatar’s economy, and sports tourism plays an integral role

Lusail Stadium

in achieving Qatar’s vision. To this end, Qatar has invested in exceptional sports stadiums and facilities that are all within easy reach of each other, such as Education City Stadium and Ahmed bin Ali Stadium.

Q: What is the destination’s long-term sports tourism strategy and how will the sector put the destination on the world map?

More than one million fans are expected to travel to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, which will be the first World Cup ever hosted in the Middle East.

The tournament will also be the most compact in World Cup modern history, with the longest distance between stadiums just 75km, so fans will never be far from the action. It means they will be able to attend more than one match in one day, without the need to switch accommodation.

Qatar has invested in exceptional sports stadiums and facilities to host

and accommodate players, teams and fans attending a wide range of world-class sporting events now, and in the future.

Q: What other niche tourism sectors is Qatar ramping up in 2022 and beyond?

Today, Qatar is one of the safest destinations in the world, centred around the generous hospitality of its people, such is the Qatari and Arabian culture.

The best hotel brands, restaurants, spas, and shops have created an oasis of luxury in Doha, in the heart of the Middle East.

There are now several new major projects in progress, including the West Bay North Beach Project and Lusail City. The West Bay North Beach Project is an extensive new development constructed over an area of 60,200 sqm and a beach length of 1.5 km.

The area will be divided into plots to be utilised as private beaches for hotels, as well as a public beach.

Lusail City is located across

38,000 sqm and will feature a blend of residential and commercial neighbourhoods, including 22 hotels, golf courses and an amusement park.

It will be at the centre of the World Cup plans and already houses the new Lusail Stadium, which will stage the final match of the World Cup.

Theme parks include the Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, the largest waterpark in Qatar, with 28 exhilarating rides and slides; and the Quest theme park,

which is home to the world’s tallest indoor shot-and-drop tower and the world’s tallest indoor rollercoaster.

Qatar is enhancing its cruise infrastructure with a new Grand Cruise Terminal currently under construction, conveniently located near the Museum of Islamic Art and the Souq and offering spectacular views of the West Bay Skyline. Once completed, the terminal will be able to host two megaships simultaneously and offer various tourist attractions, including a botanical garden, aquarium and a national gallery.

“Qatar Tourism’s mission is to create an unparalleled worldleading experience for visitors”

A Qatar Airways aircraft flies over Al Bayt Stadium

“Since the start of the pandemic, governments across the Middle East have shown real commitment to travel and tourism. Saudi Arabia in particular, has shown strong leadership throughout the crisis and is making a major investment in travel and tourism. 2022 is poised for a strong recovery if governments across the region continue to open up their borders and remove restrictions to travel, which will have a massive positive effect on both the economy, the society, and

JULIA SIMPSON PRESIDENT & CEO, WTTC

jobs”

(Sources: UNWTO, WTTC)

The Caribbean led 2021 recovery

Almost $2trn

Travel and tourism GDP contribution in the US, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 6.2%.

$246bn

Predicted travel and tourism contribution in the Middle East, just 8.9% behind pre-pandemic levels ($270bn)

58mn

New jobs could be created globally to reach more than 330 million, 1% lower than in 2019

4.3mn

People to be employed in UK’s travel and tourism sector by year-end, 70,000 more (+1.7%) than in 2019

60,000 jobs

Travel and tourism jobs to be created in France, reaching 2.8 million and surpassing prepandemic levels by 2.3%.

Around the world

Discover the Canossa World

Made in Italy excellence meets the magic of the Middle East

Canossa Events is a byword for excellence in road touring events. Formed in 2010 and renowned above all for its classic and sports car rallies and tours, Canossa organises more than 250 events a year. Staged in some of the world’s most picturesque landscapes across Europe, the US, and the Middle East, our events combine a deep passion for cars with unique experiences and world-class hospitality. Whether you yearn for the heart-pounding intensity of wheelto-wheel racing on a track, or a more relaxed but nevertheless dynamic and thrilling road rally, your driving experience will always be enhanced by beautiful roads, breathtaking scenery, as well as five-star accommodation

and excellent food. From small luxury tours to large rallies and challenging track races, Canossa turns every single drive into an exceptional and memorable journey.

Canossa strives to offer unparalleled emotions.

The journeys it creates spark conversations and generate absolutely unforgettable experiences — exquisite moments in time that combine beauty, elegance, and so many other special ingredients.

As we like to say: “There is no road to happiness. Happiness is the road!”

It is a message that enshrines the deep, unique, and wide-ranging soul of Canossa.

And yet there is even more to Canossa than its activities in the automotive world.

The company also offers private and business events such as product launches, team-building experiences, exclusive corporate galas, weddings, and romantic getaways.

Canossa has grown consistently over the years, and today the group boasts offices in Italy, North America, and the Middle East, proposing a host of luxury tours in beautiful regions in Europe, such as Tuscany, the Dolomites, the Swiss Alps, the South of France, Spain and Portugal, but also in the UAE and Oman.

Canossa has also created driving experiences in the United States, Japan, and the Far East.

An important member of the Canossa family is Cavallino, publisher of the famous eponymous

The Cavallino Classic

Celebrating the beauty, speed, history and art of the Ferrari marque for 42 years, Cavallino is the destination for all Ferrari collectors and enthusiasts. The Cavallino Classic takes place in three destinations every year – Palm Beach, Florida; Modena, Italy; and in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE. Cavallino Middle East gathers and awards the most beautiful vintage Ferraris in the region. It’s described as “ an amazing four-day experience of beauty, history, culture, passion and ‘Italianity’.” This year’s Cavallino Classic will take place during the F1 weekend in Abu Dhabi in November. www.cavallino.com

Calendar highlights 2022-2023

September 24-30, 2022

Beyond by Four Seasons, An Exclusive Driving Journey Through Tuscany

November 2022

Cavallino Classic UAE, during the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2022

January 26-29, 2023

Cavallino Classic Palm

magazine since 1978 and organiser of the world’s most important Concorso d’Eleganza, devoted entirely to Ferrari.

This Concorso, first held in Palm Beach, Florida in 1992, has more recently become a global event, also taking place in Italy and in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE.

“If I had to describe our business in one word it would be memories,” says Luigi Orlandini, Chairman and CEO of Canossa.

“We work tirelessly to create unforgettable moments for our clients. Whether it’s a car rally or a birthday party, a product presentation or a wedding, we make sure that everyone present enjoys every single moment and has an experience to treasure.”

Cora Cora Maldives

Fun and freedom, the Maldivian way

Cora Cora Maldives is an innovative all-inclusive luxury resort built around the concept of freedom, which is unique to the Maldives.

It officially opened in October 2021 following an 18-month renovation, evolving into a place where guests can reclaim their freedom and reconnect with their families and loved-ones – an ideal proposition following the considerable challenges of the pandemic.

“The new concept is much more fun, light and colourful, with a completely new offering to appeal to growing demand for affordable all-inclusive luxury.

“It has been created with freedom in mind, providing the perfect blend of luxury, romance, and fun, family friendly options,” explains Vishen Mootoo, Director of Sales & Marketing, Cora Cora Maldives. “We chose the new name, Cora Cora Maldives, to reflect both the friendliness of the resort and our spectacular house coral reef, which is easily

accessed by swimming from the beach.”

Located on Maamigili Island in the pristine Raa Atoll, Cora Cora Maldives is just 45 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport or 30 minutes by domestic flight, followed by a 20-minute speedboat journey.

Freedom and wellbeing define the resort experience, from the moment guests step into the glistening turquoise waters that fringe the sugar-soft beaches, immersing them in tranquillity, to the delicious plantbased dishes they are served as part of the gastronomic experience, created from home-grown produce.

Cora Cora Maldives comprises 100 villas and suites, each one expertly designed to reflect the spirit of the Maldives, with nine accommodation categories from which to choose.

Accommodation sizes range from the generously appointed Beach Villas at 68 sqm to the Two-Bedroom Lagoon Pool Villa, which features a slide that runs from the villa into the water,

Above: The Two-Bedroom Lagoon Pool Villa with slide

injecting an element of fun into the traditional over-water villa proposition for which the Maldives is famous.

All of the villas and suites offer complimentary Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a fully stocked mini-bar, and organic amenities. A resort highlight is the Premium AllInclusive Gourmet Meal Plan®, enabling guests to experience the full array of dining possibilities.

They can choose from Asian marketinspired cuisine at Ginger Moon®; all-day dining with a Middle Eastern and Indian Ocean twist at Tazäa®; Italian fare coupled with music and entertainment at Acquapazza® Restaurant and Beach Club; and a tri-Japanese blend of Teppanyaki, Sushi and Kushiyaki at Teien®

There’s a coffee bar too where guests can grab a quick bite or “sip and graze”.

The resort caters to a range of dietary requirements, serving up plenty of healthy options made from the island’s produce, with options including

Vishen Mootoo

is a one-of-a-kind resort that encourages guests to reclaim their freedom and take care of their wellbeing

homemade vegan ice cream, crisp salads, and dishes made from Maldivian ingredients including freshly caught fish and seafood.

The Gourmet Meal Plan® is a drawcard for all guests, but particularly those from the Middle East, notes Mootoo.

“With its dine-around option, providing the freedom to choose which restaurants to eat at for lunch and dinner, it is particularly attractive to guests with young families, as well as honeymooners from this region,” he says.

With wellness core to the Cora Cora Maldives experience, there are seven beautifully designed spa treatment rooms nestled into a luxurious tropical sanctuary.

The stunning surroundings enable guests to connect with the environment and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the resort and the island while participating in a range of mindful

activities at the MOKSHA® Spa & Wellbeing Centre.

An extensive range of spa treatments are available, with experienced therapists carefully selected from Bali, Thailand and Indonesia to expertly deliver a fusion of Eastern and Western practices.

Completing the wellness offering are activities such as yoga and meditation classes, which take place in the expansive yoga pavilion.

Cora Cora Maldives is also the first resort in the Maldives to play host to a licensed art gallery and The Dutch Onion Museum, hosing more than 400 artefacts unearthed on site, including Chinese porcelain and Maldivian tools.

It’s a chance for guests to explore the rich history of the Maldives in breathtaking natural surroundings.

Prior to arrival, guests can download the brand-new Cora Cora Maldives app for free from the Apple App Store and Google Play, so they can start planning their Maldivian adventure as soon as they book their trip.

The app has been designed to make their stay as easy and relaxing as possible, with key features including a digital resort

map, a chat function with a member of staff, and a page dedicated to children’s activities. A timetable and online booking system helps guests to plan events and activities in advance, ensuring they maximise their time at the resort.

With exploration aligned to the freedom theme at Cora Cora Maldives, there are plenty of opportunities to discover the magnificent underwater wonderland surrounding the island.

The resort has a PADI Five-Star Dive Centre, one of only nine in the entire Maldives, catering to all abilities, with options ranging from ‘Discovering Scuba Diving’ to ‘Divemaster’.

It’s a chance to become fully immersed in the Indian Ocean’s crystal-clear waters, world-renowned for its colourful and diverse marine life, with the Raa Atoll home to lemon sharks, marlins, nudibranchs, and the red-toothed triggerfish. Aquatic adventures can be undertaken at any of the 10 dive sites around the island that can be accessed in as little as 20 minutes.

With the Maldives also boasting magical star-lit skies, Cora Cora Maldives will soon open a new stargazing tower. Standing at around 10 metres high, it will offer guests memorable stargazing experiences.

And, in a move that will appeal to environmentally conscious travellers, the resort is currently being audited to be certified by Green Globe, with the process due to be completed by the end of the month (May 2022). Green Globe is a global leader in certifying sustainable operations and management of travel and tourism projects, spanning hotels, resorts, conference centre, attractions and more.

The Green Globe Standard includes 44 criteria in four groups, supported by more than 385 compliance indicators.

Rounding off the Cora Cora Maldives experience is its team of expertly trained staff, who “go above and beyond for guests in every way imaginable”, says Mootoo.

They are part of the resort’s inherent “experiential nature”, where the senses are indulged. “Whether guests are looking for a culinary journey, an underwater wonderland experience or a retreat from the modern world, Cora Cora Maldives has it all,” he says. “This remarkable ethos is not limited to one aspect of the resort, but across the entire island and into the sparkling waters beyond. It’s freedom time; let the incredible Cora Cora Maldives journey begin.”

From top: Beach Villas promise fun and colourful design

MOKSHA® Spa & Wellbeing Centre

“The new concept is much more fun, light and colourful, with a completely new offering to appeal to growing demand for affordable luxury”

The MENA region is doing pretty well with individual markets performing relatively better. Looking at the entire region we expect the full recovery in 2022 with occupancy reaching back to 2019 levels. Although international travel is yet to come back, mega events such as the Expo 2020 Dubai and FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 have supported demand for the region”

TINA HALLER DIRECTOR, DEAL ADVISORY –REAL ESTATE & HOSPITALITY, KPMG

Image: HasanZaidi/Shutterstock; sources; STR, Arabian Travel Market, Colliers, KPMG

West Bay Doha

HOTEL ROOM INVENTORY GROWTH TRAJECTORY

76% Doha

76% Makkah

66% Riyadh

60% Madinah

59% Muscat

36% Dubai

105

New hotels and serviced apartments added to meet FIFA World Cup 2022 demand

2022 OCCUPANCY FORECASTS

72% Doha

70%+ Dubai

70% RAK, Cairo, Alexandria

Hotels

Bouncing back stronger

management takeover of the 250-key Sedra Arjaan by Rotana, located in the heart of Doha on The Pearl Island. We also signed a hotel management agreement under the Centro Hotels brand, with a stylish 350-key property that is set to add a new dimension to Doha’s vibrant hospitality scene by 2023.

In addition, Rotana has strengthened its presence in Egypt, signing new management agreements with Al Marasem Development and Marina Way Lagoon.

Q: What have been Rotana’s key achievements over the past year?

Rotana has continued its tenacious expansion over the past 12 months and marked several milestones.

We have signed seven hotels already this year, which include expansion in Qatar and signings in Egypt.

The Qatar growth is accelerated by a new project with Bin Al Sheikh Holding Group, a well-diversified Qatari business conglomerate. The project includes the management of a 503-key Residences by Rotana. The new project follows Rotana’s recent

The agreement includes the management of two new properties – Lake Residence, which are serviced apartments in New Cairo marking Rotana’s debut in the capital city, and Marina Bay Hotel Apartments in Alamein, North Coast.

In 2020 we spearheaded the management of the pandemic across the Rotana portfolio, swiftly instigating several successful measures, some of which include the Rotana Safe Space Programme that remains today. Our quick thinking and bold efforts in the initial stages of the

Events like Expo and the World Cup are ensuring 2022 will be a showstopper of a year for Rotana, reveals President & CEO, Guy Hutchinson

Guy Hutchinson

pandemic mitigated the impact on the overall business and our team, and soon pushed the hotels into a commercial recovery phase.

Rotana is also proud to have been designated as an authorised ticket reseller for the world’s greatest show, Expo 2020 Dubai. Expo was the catalyst that really accelerated the rebuilding of our business and we have seen all of our hotels back to 2019 trading levels and this is very much because of that impetus that Expo brought to the market.

Q: Which destinations have performed well and what have been the demand drivers?

We have seen our hotels grow their RevPAR substantially from October 2021 to March 2022 across the UAE, exceeding even pre-pandemic performance, and this is thanks to Expo 2020.

The hospitality sector is buoyant in the region and leading global recovery for the sector. The GCC is opening up, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE removing all entry requirements for inbound travellers, bolstering international and domestic travel demand.

The FIFA World Cup Qatar taking place at the end of this year will also certainly boost demand to Doha, as well as key transit hubs such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

At Rotana, we continue to reinforce our core values through our journey of expansion and development. Our strong localised focus, agility and deep understanding of the regional markets, constantly enable us to quickly pivot our strategies as demand fluctuates.

This approach has served us well in navigating the pandemic, as well as now rapidly accelerating the trading of our hotels to market leading performances.

Q: What’s been the impact of Expo 2020 in the UAE?

Expo 2020 has been a catalyst for massive growth in the UAE and has had a

DON'T MISS

Rotana has an exciting announcement to make on day two of Arabian Travel Market (May 10, 2022). Don’t miss the ATM Yearbook’s exclusive video interview with Guy Hutchinson, conducted live at the show, and published online and in the yearbook’s digital version.

substantial impact on the hospitality sector, particularly in Dubai. Expo came at a perfect time to reaffirm Dubai’s position as a safe, COVID-protected, and wellmanaged travel destination and ignited global and regional demand for the UAE when pent up travel demand was at a peak. In addition to a very well-managed platform, the global exhibition contributed to a greater level of awareness for Dubai, combined with factors like the golden visas, to attract tourists and investors alike. Furthermore, the exhibition inspired a greater sense of community among the hospitality industry with key stakeholders uniting and coordinating efforts in a very significant way.

With the level of normalcy and activity back in the city, we’ve seen our hotels thrive and we remain very optimistic that growth rates will stay strong throughout the year, as the UAE continues to lead global recovery in the hospitality industry.

Q: How have guest behaviours and demands changed since the pandemic and how has Rotana responded?

The pandemic shifted consumer habits and we continue to witness consumers making more conscious decisions and bringing specific awareness of their likes and dislikes. People are now following brands that resonate with them based on trust and transparency. Focus on sustainability has been further amplified throughout the pandemic, making sustainable travel a huge focus moving forward. Flexibility continues to be paramount; guests are looking for hotels to be flexible with check-in and check-out times, updated cancellation policies, free cancellations against local, international restrictions; flexible upgrades that allow guests to have a better room to be able to work from and to have more space.

Far left: Al Bandar Rotana, Dubai

Above: Al Jaddaf Rotana, Dubai

At Rotana, we continue to successfully implement our Safe Space Programme to ensure a contactless stay experience. Furthermore, sustainability lies at the heart of Rotana’s operations.

As part of our ongoing commitment to reduce our environmental impact, we continue fostering the Rotana Earth efforts and initiate forward-thinking campaigns focusing on reducing waste and energy consumption in all areas of the hotel’s operations, as well as reducing landfills and food waste.

Q: Why do guests stay loyal to Rotana and how has the pandemic changed how you demonstrate you value them?

As a homegrown brand, our development is and always will be, carefully measured in a way that constantly upholds the integrity of the brand.

Our Rotana loyalty programme continues to cater to various travellers’ demands and needs, with innovative features that deliver new types of incentives and personalisation.

The award-winning programme

currently has more than half a million members and we constantly strive to introduce innovative ways to thank members for their continued support.

Our core focus is always to deliver exceptional hospitality whether on or offline to realise our brand promise of Treasured Time for each and every guest.

Q: What are the major challenges and opportunities for Rotana – and the hospitality sector – in 2022?

With the coming together of global entities at Expo 2020, and in a postpandemic world, we’ve witnessed a greater sense of community develop among the hospitality industry with key stakeholders uniting and coordinating efforts in a very significant way.

This environment of strong support and collaboration has been key to accelerating recovery and growth and gives us the

opportunity to continue this connection and best practice moving forward. I truly hope this can be maintained into the future, for the benefit of us all. Consumer behaviour is still constantly evolving and with enduring travel changes, companies that adjust to cater for this level of flexibility will continue to lead recovery. Businesses need to be agile and flexible as we enter a new post pandemic era.

Q: How has the pandemic impacted company culture and your approach to taking care of your people?

Since the very onset of the pandemic in 2020, we moved swiftly to mitigate the impact on our business and our team, redeploying almost 700 staff members.

We identified opportunities to remove the payroll burden from hotels, to keep them trading and to keep team members employed and paid throughout the crisis. Consequently, our team of hospitality professionals are some of the most agile in the business; their dexterity throughout the past two years is admirable and many have excelled through this time.

Taking care of our people is our priority; offering an infrastructure and support system that allows us to work and strive together, to keep our promise of Treasured Time. We always provide a stimulating working environment and comprehensive training for team members. Our employees are constantly empowered through continuous learning

AT A GLANCE

Above: opening soon – the five-star Slemani Rotana, Iraq

Left: Beach Rotana Residences, Abu Dhabi

Rotana currently operates 112 hotels (18,565 keys) in the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey (MENAT) and an active development pipeline of 42 properties (10,357 keys) in the region. Four new hotels are scheduled to open in 2022, which will take its total number of operational hotels to 74. The future pipeline encompasses new properties in Saudi Arabia, Iraq and UAE

A PLASTIC PROMISE

In April 2021, Rotana announced the elimination of the use of single-use plastic toiletries across all its hotel rooms in an effort to combat plastic pollution. This change is expected to result in the elimination of more than 17 million tiny plastic bottles a year and more than 100 tonnes of plastic in an average year.

in order to meet and exceed the rigorous standards to which our industry will be held in the years ahead.

Q: What are you most excited about in terms of Rotana’s future?

With a very strong first quarter of 2022 behind us, hotel performance for the rest of the year remains extremely positive, and we can be very optimistic for the future of the industry in the UAE and the wider region.

Cora Cora Maldives is a truly innovative concept resort and unlike anything the Maldives has ever seen, giving guests the unmissable opportunity to experience the Maldives like never before. Located in the pristine and pure Raa Atoll, just 45 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport.

Premium All Inclusive - Gourmet Meal Plan® is present in every detail of the resort, giving guests the unmissable opportunity to experience an array of dining possibilities.

Comprising of 100 villas and suites, each one has been expertly designed to reflect the spirit of the Maldives and is prevalent in all of the nine accommodation categories.

The stunning surroundings enable guests to connect with the environment and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Cora Cora Maldives whilst participating in a range of mindful activities in MOKSHA® Spa & Wellbeing Center.

Cora Cora Maldives is the first resort in the Maldives to showcase a licensed art gallery and museum Dutch Onion. With over 400 incredible local artefacts in the collection, guests can explore the rich history of the Maldives in breath-taking natural surroundings.

A decade of success

“Our success as a homegrown brand can be attributed to our progressive corporate strategy, which comprises four main pillars – environmental issues, staff welfare, social responsibility and ethical governance. More than 10% of our existing staff have been with us from the beginning, says Awadalla.

“Another benefit of being independent is that with a flat management structure, we are also very flexible and have been able to react quickly to market trends and issues.”

On February 28, UAE-headquartered hospitality company TIME Hotels celebrated 10 years in business. It was a moment to reflect on the firm’s many milestones during a decade of service excellence and corporate achievement.

TIME Hotels launched in Dubai in 2012 under the leadership of Mohamed Awadalla, the company’s co-founder and CEO.

The group initially launched with six properties in Dubai and Sharjah, before introducing a new brand concept, ‘TIME Express’, for the budget-conscious traveller, and expanding its portfolio into Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Egypt.

With five more hotels due to open this year – TIME Nakheel Deluxe Apartments, New Capital, Egypt; TIME Coral Nuweiba Resort, South Sinai, Egypt; TIME Moonstone Hotel Apartments, Fujairah, UAE; TIME Express Al Olaya – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; and TIME Marina Hotel & Convention Centre on Egypt's North Coast – TIME’s portfolio will have grown to an impressive 19 properties.

Meanwhile, international expansion will see TIME open a 66-key hotel in Sudan in Q3 2023.

Following launch, one of TIME’s first achievements was to secure international hotel sustainability certification, initially through Green Globe, then subsequently with Green Key, which it has maintained ever since, complying with global standards through annual audits.

“We have been compliant with the International Sustainability Hotel Certification for the last 10 years (Green Key),” notes Awadalla.

There are many sustainability achievements of note.

In 2014, TIME became the first hospitality company in the Middle East to offer guests a carbon management programme, offsetting 326 tonnes of CO2 emissions during the first nine months.

TIME has also participated in 10 humanitarian projects over the past 10 years.

They include a food collection initiative in 2021 with the Red Crescent, as well as donating thousands of dollars to cancer hospitals in Cairo and Luxor, and a renovation project for a girls’ school in Kenya in partnership with Etihad Airways. Furthermore, TIME provided efficient cooking stoves for women in Darfur, Sudan, and installed solar panels for a Green Globe & myclimate project in rural Ethiopia.

“We have accomplished so much over the last 10 years; we are extremely proud of our achievements, and we are committed to expanding our portfolio based on our brand values and our founding principles,” says Awadalla. Other notable milestones include TIME’s strategic decision in 2019 to centralise all individual property reservations departments into a dedicated central reservations office (CRO) in Cairo, which has streamlined reservations and harmonised rates. One year later, the TIME Asma hotel opened in Dubai, which was the first hotel in the region, to be managed entirely by a team of women.

“In recognition of our efforts, we have received a total of 79 local, regional and international awards over the last decade.

Mohamed Awadalla, CEO, TIME Hotels, reflects on the hospitality company’s 10 years in business and explains why the best is yet to come

Above: TIME Nakheel Deluxe ApartmentsNew Capital, Egypt

Right: TIME Moonstone Hotel Apartments, Fujairah

MILESTONES 2021-2022

Over the past year, TIME Hotels has:

1.

Opened the first hotel run by a female management team

TIME Asma hotel, which opened mid-2021, was the first hotel run by an all-female management team. All hotel operations are managed by women, including human resources, sales, F&B, finance, front office and housekeeping.

2.

Kept all hotels in operation during the COVID-19 pandemic. No property was closed down. The hotel management company put a stringent profit protection plan in place with “enviable results” in terms of talent retention.

3.

Signed its first hotel project in Sudan

TIME inked a management agreement for its first property in Africa. The group will operate a 66-key property in Sudan, with a scheduled opening date of Q3 2023.

4.

Opened its first hotel in Riyadh

In 2021 the company opened the 45-key TIME Al Muruj Hotel apartments in Saudi Arabia. The spacious serviced apartments are fitted with modern amenities to make guests feel at home. The hotel is located just 5km from Riyadh Gallery Mall and 8km from Nakheel Mall.

5.

Signed a new property in Nuweiba, Egypt

The five-star 203-key TIME Coral Resort Nuweiba is situated in the Red Sea resort of Nuweiba on the east coast of the Sinai peninsula, approximately 140km from Sharm El Sheikh. Overlooking the Gulf of Aqaba, the hotel features three restaurants and bars with extensive gardens and palms with a private sandy beach, ideal for diving enthusiasts. The company has also signed an agreement to manage the four-star 130-key TIME Marina Hotel & Conference Centre near Al Alamein on the Mediterranean coast, just 10 minutes from New Al Alamein City. Opening soon, it will be able to accommodate more than 350 delegates theatre-style and features a rooftop lounge, a restaurant, coffee shop, gym and pool.

“It is particularly gratifying to receive accolades from industry professionals, governments and humanitarian organisations,” adds Awadalla.

PEOPLE FIRST

Turning the spotlight on the past few years, which have been challenging for the entire industry due to the pandemic, TIME hotels was one of the few hotel management companies to have put in place a stringent profit protection plan with “enviable results” of talent retention.

“Not one employee was made redundant despite long periods of limited revenue,” stresses Awadalla.

“The Middle East is now emerging from the pandemic, and we have had record occupancy levels over the past five months at our UAE hotels due to Expo 2020 Dubai – and we foresee this trend continuing.

He says all of TIME’s GCC hotels are currently at operating at 90% occupancy, which includes hotels in Dubai, Sharjah, Doha, Riyadh, and Dammam.

INTRODUCING ALADDIN

TIME Hotels has earned a reputation for embracing innovation since its inception – 10 years ago, it was the first hotel management company to use cloud-based Microsoft Office Azure 365 in 2012 – and in 2022, this approach continues, as Awadalla explains.

“A hotel’s entire operation is dependent on software, starting from sales, marketing and property management to online guest reputation surveys.

“With the pandemic, a lot of applications have been upgraded and now have features that support COVID-related rules and procedures, these usually include contactless options to reduce physical interaction.

“At TIME, we have implemented many software and systems to address such demands and embraced new technologies and applications to ultimately sustain, manage and improve our business.

“Currently, we are using a system called ‘Aladdin’, which is a maintenance management

TIME’S BRANDS

TIME Hotels & Resorts: four-star hotels and resorts

TIME Hotel Apartments: fully furnished fully serviced aparthotels for extended stays

TIME Express: for the budget-conscious

TIME Residences: limited-service apartments

software. It assists us with task scheduling, preventive maintenance management, asserts inventory, energy conservation, etc.

“We also have the ‘Tenex’ application, which helps our long-term guests connect safely with the community, get real-time updates about fire alerts and any other announcements, requests for apartment cleaning, among others.

“We are also working with a number of companies in order for all these applications to be integrated into one and looking at including additional features such as assigning guestrooms and apartments cleaning, generating service reports and invoices, to name a few.”

2022 AND BEYOND

With 2022 already off to a flying start for TIME, Awadalla is “very bullish” about the remainder of the year.

“The UAE and the wider GCC have clearly benefitted from Expo 2020 and reduced COVID restrictions, leading the way to full recovery in Q1,” he says.

“Leisure travellers will continue to drive demand in Q2 and Q3 and we have already

secured group leads for our Qatar and UAE hotels in Q4 for the FIFA World Cup.”

The group is also in “multiple negotiations” for hotels across the GCC region and Egypt with a clear corporate vision to expand into Africa, he says.

“We are already taking steps in that direction through hospitality exhibitions, tourism conferences and by partnering with private investors and tourism boards,” he adds.

TIME is also preparing to launch a hotel management company called HOST.

“By partnering with international brands, investors and owners, HOST Hotel Management aims to make considerable cost savings, through leaner and more flexible operations and bespoke property management, while sustaining brand quality standards and values,” Awadalla reveals.

Looking to the near future, the ambition is to operate 21 properties across the Middle East by the end of 2023.

The company is well on target, and judging by Awadalla’s track record and unbridled ambition, could well exceed this modest goal.

Emirates now operates more than 240 aircraft

TIME Asma has an all-female management team

TIME Asma guestroom

Arabian hospitality smooth sailing in rough seas

Kostas Nikolaidis, Executive Middle East, Africa & Greece, STR, explains why 2022 is proving a remarkable year for the region’s hotel sector, led by Dubai

Following the monumental impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and what felt like the end of travel as we know it, 2021 was luckily the pivot point for the hospitality industry in the Middle East. Despite the rough start for most global regions still impacted by lockdowns, the Middle East achieved a steady growth with hotel occupancy gradually recovering throughout the year.

Fortuitously, the Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) drop to just 20% of comparable pre-pandemic levels, soon gave way to a steady recovery with considerable uplift through the second half of 2021.

With COVID vaccines becoming available for the first time since the pandemic started, hopes were high for the travel and hospitality sector during the first half of the year.

The initial slow rollout and mostly conservative government policies during this transition period slowed recovery down. London and most major European capitals struggled to attract demand as quarantine and restrictions remained a barrier to travel.

In the Gulf, Oman and Kuwait imposed significant restrictions for travel through the first half of the year with severe negative effects for their hotel performance. Interestingly, leisure markets that remained open to travel, like Miami and Dubai, witnessed a substantial influx of international demand.

Miami thrived from spring break onwards while Dubai had gotten off to a good start to the year already with steady tourism inflows, staycations and many visitors for

months waiting for restrictions to ease in their home country or working remotely.

This is in stark contrast to the holy cities of Makkah and Medina, where millions of pilgrims usually arrive through the year and particularly during Ramadan.

Their absence was sorely felt for the second year in a row as restrictions meant that only a limited number of worshippers were allowed.

After the ‘summer lull’, which naturally represents the low season for hotels in the Gulf, significant resumption of travel, events as well as conferences, ensued from September onwards.

Performance sharply rebounded in Dubai from October as the much-awaited Expo 2020 finally opened its gates.

Together with hotel occupancy rising to highs of 90%, Average Daily Rates (ADR) started to sharply rebound and almost reached AED 1,000 during the T20 Cricket World Cup, a major sporting event that was originally to take place in India, but ended up being co-hosted by the UAE and Oman instead. Events proved to be major drivers of hotel performance across the region.

The inaugural F1 Grand Prix races in Doha and Jeddah both resulted in record performance for hotels in those destinations. Revenue per available room (RevPAR) spiked to US$400 in Jeddah and $110 in Doha during the respective race weekends. Despite Omicron headwinds just before Christmas, New Year’s Eve hotel performance in Dubai broke all past records with an ADR of $532.

Hotel room demand for the night was 2.5 times higher than Paris.

ABOUT

Kostas Nikolaidis designs and oversees strategic business development initiatives for key projects across Middle East, Africa and Greece. Over the years he’s become proficient in delivering custom data solutions with projects undertaken for both private and government sector clients. He enjoys delivering hotel data insights and thought-provoking content on presentations, panels, blogs/articles and social media. Prior to joining STR, Kostas worked for Starwood Hotels and Resorts and the Edwardian Hotel Group London where he also completed their Graduate Management Programme.

Evidence to the monumental recovery that Dubai has been experiencing is the fact it managed to attract the same hotel demand of 31.2 million rooms sold as London, Paris and Oslo combined. That’s almost 1% of the global hotel room demand for the year.

In February 2022, the pandemic recovery took another step forward with the Omicron wave subsiding and travel restrictions easing further. The countdown to the end of Expo 2020 was accompanied with tremendous hotel demand in Dubai

For the second half of February and throughout March, occupancy mostly hovered above 90%, overall, a positive start for hotel performance in the region, successfully carrying over the momentum from 2021. With yet another calendar full of exciting events and fewer restrictions now in place, 2022 is poised to be another year of recovery and growth for the region.

Hotel headline grabbers

STR STATISTICS COMMISSIONED BY ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET HIGHLIGHT REGION’S HOSPITALITY DEVELOPMENT PROWESS

1Hotel development in prime GCC tourism destinations is growing at six times the global average

Despite the pandemic headwinds the global hospitality industry has had to contend with over the past two years, new hotel development in prime tourism destinations in GCC destinations including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and the UAE, remains substantial, even by international standards.

According to research commissioned by Arabian Travel Market and conducted at the end of 2021 by hotel market intelligence and global benchmarking company STR, Makkah and Doha are both expanding their hotel room inventory by 76%, followed by Riyadh, Medina and Muscat with 66%, 60% and 59% growth respectively.

In Dubai, rooms growth stands at 26%, which is still extraordinary considering its existing base and following years of continuous hotel development, and it is still more than double the global average.

According to the report, there are almost 2.5 million hotel rooms currently under contract around the world, 3.2% or 80,000 rooms of that supply is taking place in Saudi Arabia alone. Furthermore, although Expo 2020 in Dubai, has drawn to a close (March 31, 2022), the mega event has been the catalyst for accelerated hotel room growth in the UAE with almost 50,000 rooms still due to open across the emirates.

Following closely behind is Doha with final preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2022 now being put in place. Doha is on track to deliver 23,000 hotel rooms pre- and post-World Cup 2022, adding to the country’s burgeoning hotel property portfolio.

2More than 32,000 rooms under construction in KSA

A total of 32,621 hotel rooms are under construction in Saudi Arabia as the kingdom prepares to meet pent-up demand from pilgrims returning to its holy cities, reveals STR. The RevPAR recovery index stands at 52%, noting the absence of millions of Muslim pilgrims has significantly impacted hotel performance in Saudi Arabia. Madinah and Makkah witnessed RevPAR rates of just 33% and 24% respectively, in 2021. Although significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels, KSA’s hotel performance registered year-on-year gains in 2021 and the sector’s recovery is expected to persist throughout the coming year, with pent-up demand driving further improvements as COVID-related restrictions continue to ease.

Hotels in Al Khobar are currently outperforming those in Saudi Arabia’s other major cities, with RevPAR surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2021. Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah, meanwhile, recorded recovery index rates of 88%, 85% and 56%, respectively, last year.

MIDDLE EAST PIPELINE

169,000 pipeline rooms are currently under contract across the Middle East, the three most active cities being Dubai, Makkah and Doha, respectively.

Construction underway on The Pearl-Qatar, Doha

HOTEL MARKET FORECAST 2022

Chris Lund, Executive Director – Head of Hotels, MENA, at Colliers rounds up the performance outlook for key hotel markets in 2022

At the end of the first quarter of 2022, Colliers expected most markets to improve on their yearon-year performance. However, increased geopolitical tension impacting key source markets and a rising price of oil is expected to shift demand patterns in the region.

While the ongoing monitoring of the COVID-19 pandemic by government entities and other key touristic stakeholders will continue to influence how markets recover, consumer confidence in source countries will be the principal determiner of continued growth. A transparent and consistent approach to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions to support further recovery and growth remains a key factor in improving consumer confidence in these key markets.

About Chris Lund

Christopher Lund oversees the hotels consultancy division of Colliers in the Middle East and North Africa. Over the past decade, the hotels team has worked on more than 800 projects and deals in the region, providing advisory services to hotel developers, investors, operators, governments, law firms and banks. Lund specialises in development consultancy and strategic asset management, ranging from standalone hotels to largescale destinations and portfolios, as well as hotel company strategies, condo-hotel investment models and negotiating complex hotel management agreements.

Forecasting methodology

The forecast for 2022 incorporates at least five years of seasonality and trends for each market and applies exponential smoothing to determine the likely trend for the coming year. This is then weighted against the entry of new supply, upcoming mega events and government-led intervention to derive the expected occupancy level for the market in 2022.

EGYPT ▼

New attractions in Cairo are expected to help attract visitation, along with the opening of new supply. The increased travel uncertainty from the key CIS markets is expected to have the largest impact on the Red Sea markets Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada.

SAUDI ARABIA ▼

The Riyadh Season and growing consumer confidence has benefitted both the Riyadh and Jeddah markets, while positive indications on the return of pilgrim demand have improved the outlook for Makkah and Madinah markets. The rising price of oil has historically led to increased corporate demand in Al Khobar/ Dammam, so this is something we will monitor as the year progresses.

Al Marmoom Bedouin Camp

REGIONAL MARKETS ▼

At time of writing (March), COVID-19 restrictions had eased for inbound travellers to Jordan, including the lifting of PCR testing requirements. Given the large tour-driven demand in the market, this is expected to improve demand later in the year.

THE UAE ▼

Expo 2020 Dubai has had a positive impact on all markets in the UAE, while the FIFA World Cup Qatar in 2022 is expected to result in overspill demand to the key transit hubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, rising instability in key CIS source markets is expected to suppress demand, with the largest impacts expected in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. Given the diversity of the UAE’s source markets, additional hotel demand may be induced from alternative markets at a lower price positioning.

TOP PERFORMING HOTEL MARKETS 2022 V 2021 (OCCUPANCY)▼

QATAR ▼

Doha has maintained a high level of demand. Further improvement is anticipated this year with the FIFA World Cup Qatar expected to be a key driver in the final quarter of 2022.

The Hotel Landscape

ACCOR

In 2021, Accor opened 288 hotels representing 41,000 rooms, resulting in a net growth in the network of 3% over the 12-month period. At the end of December 2021, the group had a global hotel portfolio of 777,714 rooms (5,298 hotels) and a pipeline of 214,000 rooms (1,218 hotels). For 2022, the group expects a net unit growth of 3.5%. In 2021, Accor consolidated revenue of €2,204 million (US$2,381 million), up 34% like-for-like (LFL) versus full-year 2020. Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Accor, says the group’s pipeline “continues to flourish” with the luxury and upscale segment representing close to 40% of future openings, a 12-point increase in the past four years.

“As the desire to escape and to resume travelling has never been stronger, we are well underway to make the most of this rebound in all our markets,” he says.

“In 2022, we will continue to unfold our vision of ever-more experience-driven and sustainable tourism, facilitated by digital technologies. Armed with these strengths, we are confident in our capacity to enduringly continue creating value for our partners as well as our shareholders.”

In India, the Middle East, Africa and Turkey (IMEAT), the recovery in business between the third and fourth quarters was robust (+28 percentage points with RevPAR exceeding FY 2019 levels in the last quarter).

While business in Saudi Arabia remained held back by tight restrictions weighing on pilgrimages, the UAE benefitted from demand linked to Expo 2020 Dubai, which started on October 1, 2021. RevPAR was down (28)% in FY 2021 compared with FY 2019 in this region.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

313 hotels, 75,000 keys, in MENA

PIPELINE:

111 hotels, 26,000 keys, in MENA

PIPELINE AMBITIONS:

400 hotels, 100,000 keys, by 2026 in MENA

2022 HIGHLIGHTS

Accor’s regional expansion continues with a swathe of new hotels set to open this year. Highlights will include Rixos Jewel of the Creek in Dubai, Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Salé in Morocco and in Saudi Arabia, Rixos Obhur Jeddah and Banyan Tree AlUla. Opening soon, the Banyan Tree property, located in the Ashar Valley, will comprise luxury tents inspired by Nabatean architecture. Each ‘villa’ will have its own pool and boast desert and mountain views, with one-, two- and three-bedroom options available. Guests will be able to dine at one of two venues – Saffron, a signature Banyan Tree Thai restaurant, and an Arabian venue serving authentic local cuisine – while facilities will include a Banyan Tree spa and a fitness centre.

2022 FOCUS:

MÖVENPICK

Accor’s regional stronghold gains momentum in 2022, particularly with the upcoming 2022 World Cup in Qatar providing business development opportunities. The group has been appointed the official provider of accommodation for visitors to the event and will manage and operate more than 60,000 rooms in apartments and villas across the Gulf Arab state.

Accor will also broaden its luxury portfolio in Qatar with upcoming properties of note including Rixos Doha Qetaifan and the Raffles and Fairmont hotels in the iconic Lusail Towers development. The towers will rise gracefully from podium level, one occupied by the

six-star Raffles Hotel & Branded Residences featuring 132 suites and 49 apartments and the other home to the five-star Fairmont with 361 rooms and suites. State-of-the-art entertainment and recreational facilities, including specialist boutiques, VIP movie theatres, signature restaurants and a private Cigar Lounge, as well as exquisite banqueting and conference spaces and dedicated office areas are all part of this project, developed by Katara Hospitality.

ALEPH HOSPITALITY

Aleph Hospitality has almost doubled its revenues over the past 12 months, driven by the group’s portfolio expansion. To support this growth, Aleph Hospitality announced numerous senior appointments to its corporate team, including Jad Shamseddin in the new role of Chief Operating Officer, Daniel Ebo as Vice President Sales, and most recently, Clemence Lormand as the group’s new Development Manager. In the first quarter of 2022, Aleph Hospitality entered new countries in Africa with the takeover of hotels in Uganda and Rwanda. In Uganda, Aleph Hospitality signed a management contract in February to operate two boutique hotels; Masheda Palms in Buyala and A’lure Hotel & Suites in Kampala. Last month, the group signed a management agreement with Century Park Hotel and Residences Limited to operate luxury five-star

SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences

An overview of hotel group activity in the Middle East and North Africa, from 2021 performance to the booming pipeline

RESORT AL MARJAN ISLAND, RAS AL KHAIMAH

Opening in Q3, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island is a five-star family resort with a 300-metre beach and 418 rooms and suites, each featuring a balcony with sea views. Facilities will include six specialty bars and restaurants, three outdoor pools, a wellness hub with gym and four treatment rooms, a kids’ club and watersports.

Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Salé, Morocco

MGallery hotel under a franchise agreement, as well as all facilities at the new Century Park Hotel and Residences development in Rwanda’s capital Kigali.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

12 hotels, 947 keys, in MEA

PIPELINE:

12 hotels, 2,000 keys, in MEA

PIPELINE AMBITIONS:

50 hotels by 2026

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

Aleph Hospitality is about to launch its sustainable development programme, Aleph Cares. ‘Cares’ stands for Community, Aleph, Responsible, Environment and Sustainability. The strategy is structured around five core pillars: Management Approach; Energy & Water Consumption; Waste Management; Product Selection; and CSR & Solidarity. The group and its portfolio of hotels have already made great strides in implementing these five pillars, which the Aleph Cares programme will build on. For example, engaging with local humanitarian projects is an important element of the Aleph culture. As part of the group’s management agreement for three Boma hotels in Kenya, Aleph donates 5% of its fees to the Kenya Red Cross.

2022 FOCUS:

The global pandemic was the impetus for Aleph’s new

brand initiative, the Innovation Lab, designed to identify and nurture young start-ups and resolve some of the challenges the global hospitality industry is facing. Successful applicants

on the rolling programme will be able to trial their products in Aleph’s hotels and access potential investment opportunities, either through Aleph or third-party investment, seed funding and venture capital. The Innovation Lab covers all categories, from the human resource crisis to ESG.

BARCELÓ HOTEL GROUP

Barceló Hotel Group is the second largest hotel chain in Spain and one of the 30 largest in the world in terms of number of rooms

It was recognised as the 'Best Management Company in the World' at the 28th edition of the World Travel Awards and currently operates more than 270 four- and five-star urban and vacation hotels, with more than 60,000 rooms distributed across 24 countries and marketed under four brands: Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resorts and Allegro Hotels.

OCCIDENTAL ANKARA

This four-star hotel with 83 rooms is located in the Kavaklidere district in the centre of the Turkish capital. With this new addition, Barceló Hotel Group confirms its leadership as the Spanish hotel chain with the largest presence in Turkey. The hotel will feature an elegant à la carte restaurant serving Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, plus a gym and a wellness centre with a sauna, Hammam and massage rooms.

Marina, Occidental Sharjah

Grand, Occidental Dubai

ALEPH HOSPITALITY

Aleph Hospitality has signed a management agreement with Century Park Hotel and Residences

Limited to operate the luxury five-star MGallery hotel under a Franchise Agreement, as well as all facilities at the new Century Park Hotel and Residences development in Rwanda’s capital Kigali. Located in the Nyarutarama neighbourhood, Century Park Hotel and Residences is a mixed-use residential and leisure park. The unique lifestyle destination offers luxury villas, twoand three-bedroom apartments, four- and five-bedroom duplexes and penthouses, as well as three restaurants and bars. It also features the luxurious MGallery Hotel (pictured), the first for the brand in Rwanda, featuring well-appointed guest rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, and conference and meeting rooms.

In the UAE, the group recorded 70% occupancy in 2021, the year it celebrated its 90th anniversary and appointed José Canals as the new Managing Director for the Middle East, Mediterranean and Asia. Renowned for its unique Spanish hospitality, the company operates Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, Barceló Residences Dubai

Production City and Occidental Al Jaddaf in the UAE. Pipelined properties in the region include the 134-room Barceló Fès Medina and the 138-room Barceló Tanger in Morocco, and the Occidental Ankara in Turkey.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

20 hotels, 5,145 keys, in MENA

PIPELINE: 3 hotels in MENA

Century Park Hotel and Residences

Barceló Fès Medina

PIPELINE AMBITIONS:

To open 20 new hotels in the next few years

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

The group’s global plan for 2022 is to open 20 new hotels and continue expanding in countries such as Indonesia, Maldives, Thailand, Poland and Slovenia, while upcoming properties in MENA include Barceló Fès Medina, Barceló Tanger, and Occidental Ankara.

2022 FOCUS:

The roll-out of the group’s three new MENA region hotels and globally, the opening of Estación Canfranc, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, at Canfranc’s train station (Huesca in north-eastern Spain). This establishment will preserve the cultural heritage of the building and will employ local talent by creating 150 direct jobs. It will have 104 rooms and suites, a wellness area with a heated swimming pool, a library and a restaurant located in the two restored 20th century train carriages. The historic station lobby will house the hotel reception.

DEUTSCHE HOSPITALITY

Deutsche Hospitality, the German hospitality group, comprises eight brands and more than 160 hotels worldwide. Its luxury lifestyle brands include Steigenberger Icons and Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels, while its upscale and lifestyle offering spans

Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, Jaz in the City and House of Beats. The company fulfils demand for midscale properties with two brands – IntercityHotel and MAXX by Deutsche Hospitality – and its economy segment is represented by Zleep Hotels. In October 2021, Deutsche Hospitality and the Porsche Design Group launched a new concept – Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels – “the only brand that combines the distinctive Porsche Design lifestyle with the hospitality and service quality of a Steigenberger hotel”. Each property will offer at least 150 rooms, suites, and penthouses; a restaurant and lounge concept; exclusive meet-andgreet areas; and “world-class health and beauty facilities”, including a gym and wellness area. Guests will also benefit from “an individualised journey at every touchpoint, driven by the hotel’s focus on hyper personalisation, innovation, and functional approach”.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

23 hotels, 6,639 keys. in MENA

PIPELINE:

5 hotels, 1,045 keys, in MENA

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

At the start of 2022, the Tourism Development Fund (TDF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Deutsche Hospitality to develop and operate Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels projects in Saudi Arabia. The agreement includes the right to exclusively launch the first Steigenberger

THE AL HAMRA RESIDENCES AND THE AL HAMRA VILLAGE HOTEL

The Al Hamra Residences (pictured) and the Al Hamra Village Hotel are part of the award-winning Al Hamra integrated tourism destination in Ras Al Khaimah, which offers guests access to the Al Hamra Golf Club, the Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club and the Al Hamra Mall. The complex provides a wide range of accommodation options including penthouses, villas and studio apartments and features leisure facilities such as a tennis court, swimming pools and several bars and restaurants.

Porsche Design Hotels project in the Middle East.

2022 FOCUS:

Deutsche Hospitality is expanding in the UAE by joining forces with Ras Al Khaimah’s lifestyle developer and investment, Al Hamra, to take on the management of the Al Hamra Residences and Al Hamra Village Hotel. The resorts will use the Steigenberger Residences and MAXX by

Deutsche Hospitality brand names in future. This expansion will mark Deutsche Hospitality’s Ras Al Khaimah debut.

HILTON

Hilton opened more than one hotel per day in 2021, expanding its global portfolio to more than 6,800 hotels in 122 countries across six continents. The company announced a string of notable openings in MENA, including DoubleTree by Hilton in Sharjah, the WB Abu Dhabi Curio Collection by Hilton, and Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, which is the world’s largest Hampton by Hilton.

LXR Hotels & Resorts announced a stunning new resort on a private island in Abu Dhabi for 2023, plus two other debuts: one in Saudi Arabia with a boutique resort in Diriyah, projected to open by 2026, and a second in Africa and the Indian Ocean with the stunning Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts, which started welcoming guests in 2021. In 2022, Hilton will open six new properties across three brands in the region in 2022. They include the 221room Hampton by Hilton Doha Old Town in Qatar; the Waldorf Astoria Kuwait (pictured) featuring award-winning Japanese restaurant concept ROKA; Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah with a prime beachfront location; Hilton Bahrain, a 348room property with studios and apartments; the Hilton Cairo

Steigenberger Porsche

Waldorf Astoria Kuwait

Nile Maadi, located in the Maadi diplomatic district with meeting and event space; and the Conrad Rabat Arzana in Morocco with more than 600 sqm of event space.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

84 hotels, 27,800+ keys, in MENA

PIPELINE:

112 hotels, 29,300+ keys, in MENA

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

Opening this year, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, is a beachfront destination with a private beach, the eforea spa, and a wide range of restaurants, bars and lounges – including Trader Vic’s, Barfly by Buddha Bar and Claw BBQ.

2022 FOCUS: Outside of the region, Hilton will open Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia with 107 guest rooms, each featuring a private garden or terrace, with the majority offering panoramic views of the entire Chia lagoon. It will offer three restaurants, a Conrad Spa, a spa bar, a yoga studio, and a gym.

Africa, Hyatt has announced milestone development plans for Grand Hyatt The Red Sea, Park Hyatt Marrakech, Grand Hyatt Kuwait, Andaz Doha and Park Hyatt Riyadh Diriyah.

It says 2021 was a year of milestone property openings across the region, including Hyatt Centric Jumeirah in Dubai, Alila Hinu Bay in Oman, Hyatt Regency Taghazout in Morocco and Hyatt Regency Cairo West in Egypt.

THE WB ABU DHABI, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON

Hilton opened the world’s first Warner Bros. themed hotel in November 2021, which displays more than 400 pieces of film and TV memorabilia such as scripts, props, posters and photographs, plus the Batmobile from The Batman. There’s a unique ‘dive-in’ poolside movie screen, while Looney Tunes room service sees the likes of Daffy Duck and Bugs Bunny deliver treats to young guests. The hotel also reflects Warner Bros.’ incredible contribution to TV with the fountain from the sitcom Friends standing outside the property’s lobby. Located 12km from Abu Dhabi Airport, the 257-room, six-storey property sits next door to Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi – the world’s largest indoor theme park.

2021 was a year of significant growth for Hyatt, particularly in terms of the group’s luxury brand portfolio. At ITLM 2021 in Cannes, plans for seven new luxury hotels and resorts throughout Europe and the Middle East were announced, in addition to 25 previously announced hotels under the luxury brands of Alila, Andaz, Destination by Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Park Hyatt, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, and Thompson Hotels.

These openings are slated to open from 2022 through to 2025, representing an ambitious and extensive development pipeline to bolster Hyatt’s already prominent luxury brand portfolio.

Located in strategic locations that Hyatt has identified as key growth markets, the properties will cater to the growing demand for luxury properties in places that matter the most to guests.

In the Middle East and North

With additional development announcements scheduled for later in the year, Hyatt says it looks forward to fostering its “strong footprint in the region”.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

40 hotels, 8,947 keys, in MENA

PIPELINE:

7 hotels, 2,000+ keys, in MENA

PIPELINE AMBITION:

32 hotels by 2025

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

Slated to open in Q3 2022, Grand Hyatt Kuwait is part of Kuwait's most multifaceted modern development, connected to the luxury 360 Mall with 130,000 sqm of retail and social spaces, international-sized indoor and outdoor tennis courts (home to only the second Rafa Nadal Academy in the world) and a mixed-use Grand Arena with a

The Andaz brand will debut in Qatar when the 318-room Andaz Doha, located in the West Bay area of Doha, opens in November, coinciding with the FIFA 2022 World Cup. Providing “elevated sensory experiences and unscripted service”, Andaz Doha invites luxury travellers to immerse themselves in Qatar’s culture.

5,600-capacity seating space, set to host internationally renowned events and concerts. Grand Hyatt Kuwait will offer three standalone restaurants serving cuisine spanning from the Far East to Europe; a Grand Club Lounge; and the distinctive Saheel Lobby Lounge.

BRAND FOCUS:

In 2021, Hyatt announced plans for Grand Hyatt The Red Sea, slated to open under phase one of the Red Sea Development project.

This property will be part of an ambitious hospitality project that will set a new global standard for sustainable tourism within the luxury sphere.

Grand Hyatt The Red Sea will feature a striking architectural “coral bloom” design, a unique concept resembling a bloom of coral in the sea from above, which will offer a sense of luxury that blends seamlessly with the natural environment.

It will be the largest of 11 hotels set to open on the island.

HYATT

Grand Hyatt The Red Sea

ANDAZ DOHA

IHG HOTELS & RESORTS

IHG Hotels & Resorts reported a significant improvement in trading in 2021, with RevPAR recovering to 70% of 2019 levels (83% in Q4). While leisure travel continues to lead recovery, the future is bright for all segments, with business and group travel making a comeback, according to Derek DeCross, SVP of Global Sales for IHG Hotels & Resorts. “Where we see those peaks in travel, IHG expects continuing consumer demand, such as those in India, the Middle East and Africa (IMEA), driven by milder travel restrictions across feeder markets, increasing flight availability, and the return of global events like Expo 2020,” he says. “The largest share of business travel in this region is corporate bookings, as well as meetings and events.”

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director MEA & Southwest Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, adds: “Currently, with many markets open across IMEA, we have seen occupancies and ADRs return to 2019 levels and we have remained above par against our competition per market. In 2022, in addition to driving performance, we have a strong focus on growing our footprint in the region by expanding the presence of our existing brands and bringing new brands from our global portfolio to key markets across MENA.

“Also, with ongoing events and the launch of major attractions across the region such as the film

festivals in Egypt, the cultural and entertainment festivals in Saudi Arabia, conferences, or even the World Cup 2022 in Qatar, we believe the growth will continue at pace and the surge in business travel will also pick up sooner than expected.”

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

100+ hotels, close to 36,000 keys, in MENA

PIPELINE:

63 hotels, 16,000+ keys, in MENA

PIPELINE AMBITIONS:

To double its IMEA pipeline by 2025

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

In 2022, new hotel openings have included voco Bonnington Dubai, Voco Doha West Bay Suites, Crowne Plaza West Cairo – Arkan and InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah. Properties opening soon include Holiday Inn & Suites Dubai Science Park Dubai, Holiday Inn & Suites Cairo, Holiday Inn Jeddah Corniche, InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi, and Holiday Inn Al Khobar City.

2022 FOCUS:

On April 13, IHG Hotels & Resorts ushered in the next chapter for its new global loyalty programme with IHG One Rewards: a brand that celebrates individuality – giving members more flexibility and control with the ability to choose to be rewarded in their own way by offering more choice, value and relevant benefits than ever before.

IHG One Rewards debuts with a fresh look and feel, along with enhanced benefits that will take effect in early June 2022 across IHG Hotels & Resorts’ 17 brands and nearly 6,000 hotels around the world. This new brand and programme represents the largest and most comprehensive investment that IHG Hotels & Resorts has made in the loyalty space since introducing the industry’s first rewards programme more than 30 years ago, launched in 1983 by Holiday Inn. The programme benefits are the result of extensive research

into “what guests truly want from a loyalty programme”, such as room upgrades and free breakfast, followed by member discounts, flex and bonus points, food and breakfast credit, and lounge access.

KEMPINSKI

Despite a tough worldwide situation and the ups and downs caused by COVID-19 uncertainty, Kempinski Hotels last year scored its highest employee satisfaction and engagement rate in history.

This led to the company being ranked number one on the Forbes World’s Best Employers List 2021 in the travel and leisure industry, as well as a winner of the 2022 Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award.

While others slowed down during times of uncertainty, the luxury hotel group “stayed true to its organisational values and showed determination and commitment to making their people a priority”.

VOCO BONNINGTON DUBAI

Voco Bonnington Dubai in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), the second voco in the city and formerly Bonnington Hotel Dubai, features 208 rooms and promises a “modern, stylish and unstuffy experience”. As part of the transformational works carried out at the property, the refurbished guest rooms benefit from the voco design concept with thoughtful comforts like cosy bedding made from 100% recycled materials, Antipodes high-quality organic bathroom amenities in larger dispenser bottles, and high-speed Wi-Fi, Smart TVs, executive desks and in-room refreshments. Facilities include meeting rooms; a Leisure Deck with a swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna and steam rooms, a beauty salon and a pool bar; and dining experiences such as The Cavendish and the awardwinning Irish pub McGettigan’s.

As the oldest international hotel group with European heritage, this year Kempinski marks its 125 anniversary and as the company grows around the world, the focus will always be on quality over quantity, it says.

“In each new opportunity the goal is to assure that it is a good fit for the portfolio: one in which Kempinski can uphold the values that have come to define the brand after 125 years of excellence”, says the group. Over the past six months alone the hotel group signed 10 new management agreements for hotels and residences in destinations such as Brazil, Tanzania, Lombok, Dubai, Saudi Arabia and Istanbul, which it says demonstrates the appetite among owners to tap into the company’s long history of management expertise.

With humble beginnings as a family-run wine merchant and restaurant business in 1897, Kempinski today manages a collection of 80 elegant hotels, resorts and residences in 34 countries around the world, with another 26 projects under development.

Voco Doha West Bay Suites

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

18 hotels, 4,580 keys in MEA

PIPELINE:

12 hotels, 2,755 keys, in MEA

PIPELINE AMBITIONS:

20 additional hotels, 4,500 keys, in MEA by 2030

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

In April 2022, Kempinski Hotels opened the highly anticipated luxury hotel, The David Kempinski Tel Aviv. It marked the brand’s 80th global opening and its first property in Israel. It followed the opening of Kempinski Palace Engelberg, the first international five-star hotel in central Switzerland's largest winter and summer holiday destination. With 129 rooms and suites, the property offers unique views of the Swiss Alps, as does the rooftop spa with infinity pool.

2022 FOCUS:

Kempinski, a founding member of GHA DISCOVERY, is leveraging the benefits of the loyalty programme, which was reimagined in December 2021. Three new features meet the needs of modern travellers including the 11 million GHA members.

They include more benefits, expanded status levels and the ability to redeem rewards on a wide range of services and benefits at hotels and resorts, not only when travelling, but at local properties, even without an overnight stay. The introduction of

THE DAVID KEMPINSKI TEL AVIV

The David Kempinski Tel Aviv Housed in a 34-storey skyscraper designed by Feigin Architects and erected along the city's iconic sea promenade, the 250-room-andsuite property offers magnificent views of the Mediterranean, a triplex-penthouse-suite, five kosher dining venues and the OKOA Spa. The top-floor private pool and full-serviced lounge restaurant and bar are reserved exclusively for the hotel's Signature Suite guests during the day and in the evenings, the rooftop transforms into Cloud51, a dining bar venue, primed to become one of the city's nightlife hotspots.

the industry's first digital rewards currency, the DISCOVERY Dollar (D$), enables members to earn from day one during their stay and redeem for future room bookings and upgrades, as well as for spa treatments or F&B. An additional plus, says Kempinski, is the extended membership levels, which are easier to achieve thanks to more flexible criteria.

MARRIOTT

Marriott reported “meaningful recovery across the Middle East in 2021”, ending the year on a strong note, with occupancy topping 65% in Q4, the highest for the company across the globe. At the same time, Q4 RevPAR in the Middle East and Africa rose 8% above 2019 levels. “Ultimately, leisure demand was remarkably strong, benefitting from a significant increase in international visitors. In fact, average rates across our leisure and luxury portfolio in some markets, including the UAE, were higher than 2019,” says Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Marriott International. “The region’s forward-looking approach, ongoing government initiatives and innovative support schemes for the private and hospitality sectors have helped drive resilience across the market. This, coupled with our outstanding associates who have worked tirelessly to serve our guests and support our owners, has driven our recovery.” Marriott opened more than 20 properties (4,000+ rooms) in the Middle East in 2021. Highlights included four properties under St. Regis – The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm and The St. Regis Downtown Dubai, and the debut of the brand in Egypt with The St. Regis Cairo and The St. Regis Al Masa; the debut of Residence Inn in the UAE; the opening of The Dubai EDITION; and the openings of two Alofts and Elements in Dubai. The regional debut of the Marriott

Executive Apartments brand in Doha; and 10 openings in the UAE alone. Marriott also announced more than 20 new deals in the Middle East in 2021. Highlights included: a deal with the Red Sea Development Company to bring St. Regis and EDITION to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Project; a deal signed with SELA for a St. Regis in Riyadh and EDITION in Jeddah, and for a Ritz-Carlton and Luxury Collection with Diriyah Gate; the signing of W Dubai – Mina Seyahi with WASL; and a multi-project agreement with Al Saedan Group in Saudi Arabia, which includes the country’s first Renaissance Hotel, the world’s largest Aloft Hotel with 1,000 rooms, and a Courtyard by Marriott in the Holy City of Makkah.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

190+ properties, 50,000+ rooms in the Middle East, Egypt and Turkey

PIPELINE:

100+ properties, 25,000+ rooms in the Middle East, Egypt and Turkey

PIPELINE AMBITIONS: 20+ openings planned in 2022

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

The Ritz-Carlton will make its brand debut in Jordan this May with the opening of The RitzCarlton, Amman. Two stunning towers unveil a “refined, modern luxury experience” in the heart of Jordan’s buzzing capital city. The property will offer 228 guestrooms including 34 suites, complemented by the brand’s legendary service.

Kempinski Palace Engelberg

Sheraton Grand Dubai

MARRIOTT RESORT

PALM JUMEIRAH

Opening soon, the Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, will feature 608 guestrooms and a private sandy beach offering stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Facilities include a beachside pool, fitness centre, the Saray Spa and a Kidz Club. The eight restaurants will serve a variety of cuisines including Korean, Italian, Japanese, and Mexican.

Guests can relax in the elegant Cigar Lounge or indulge at the hotel’s Mediterranean restaurant. For a dinner with a view, the rooftop restaurant and bar offer dazzling views across the skyline There are indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre and spa, and a 1,000 sqm ballroom.

2022 FOCUS

In 2018 Marriott International announced plans to refresh the Sheraton Hotels & Resorts brand.

The new design approach draws on its roots as a community hub created through an intuitive and holistic experience with places to connect and be productive.

The transformation balances timelessness with a fresh and modern feel, creating an environment where guests feel comfortable and at ease, whether working, meeting or relaxing.

At the heart of the new Sheraton experience is the lobby. This has been re-imagined as the Public Square of the hotel; a holistic, open space that invites people to join together. Built into the new design are signature elements such as the Community Table, an

inviting, purpose-built workspace that anchors each hotel’s lobby and allow guests to work, eat and drink while soaking up the energy of the space. Other contemporary updates in the lobbies include Soundproof booths and a new elevated food and beverage philosophy, &More by Sheraton.

The guestrooms have been reimagined into bright, well-lit spaces with a residential appeal and new tools for productivity, while still retaining some of the classic Sheraton signature amenities, including the luxurious Sheraton Sleep Experience platform bed.

The Sheraton Club Lounge, an exclusive space for Marriott Bonvoy Elite members and Sheraton Club level guests, has also undergone an upgrade as part of the transformation. Newly transformed hotels in the Middle East include Sheraton Grand Dubai and Sheraton Istanbul Levant.

MINOR HOTELS

Minor Hotels, a hotel owner, operator and investor, with a current portfolio of 529 hotels and resorts in 55 countries across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, South America, Africa and the Indian Ocean, continues to grow its footprint in MENA. Having already launched two new properties in the region to date this year – Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort in the UAE and an Avani Muscat Hotel in Oman – the group will add four further new-build properties within the Middle East during 2022,

including debuting two new brands to the region – NH Collection and NH Hotels (the 300-key NH Collection Doha Oasis Hotel & Beach Club and the 306-key NH Dubai The Palm). Minor Hotels will also soon share exciting news about expanding its footprint into Saudi Arabia at ATM.

Other upcoming properties include: the 174-key Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort (Q1 2023); the 233-key Anantara Sharjah Resort (late 2024); the 110-key Avani Bilaj Al Jazayer Bahrain Resort and the 110-key Tivoli Bilaj Al Jazayer Bahrain Resort (2024); and Oaks Egypt New Capital Apartments & Suites with 400 apartments and suites (2025).

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

21 hotels, 3,203 keys, in MENA – across 4 brands

PIPELINE:

9 hotels, 2,107 keys, in MENA – across 6 brands

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

Launched at the start of 2022, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort is the first luxury resort on Dubai’s World Islands archipelago. Located 4km off the coast, the island resort offers guests a new luxury destination in Dubai and a unique perspective on the city. The resort comprises 70 suites, beach and pool villas, multiple restaurants and bars, all with Dubai skyline views, in addition to Anantara’s signature Dining by Design, which can be enjoyed in

a bubble on the shoreline. Unique experiences include Hamacland, a floating lounge with hammocks and VIP food and drinks, and Cinema under the Stars.

NH DUBAI THE PALM

NH Hotels will debut in the Middle East region later this year with the launch of NH Dubai The Palm. Currently in the final stages of development, the new-build property will open its doors in September. Located on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah and within easy reach of the city’s key tourist attractions, the property will offer 227 hotel guest rooms and suites, as well as 306 serviced apartments. Facilities will include multiple restaurants and bars, three spa treatment rooms, a fullyequipped gym, a kids’ club and four meeting rooms.

2022 FOCUS: Both NH Hotels and NH Collection will be launching in the Middle East region in 2022. NH Dubai The Palm will open in Q4 and NH Collection Doha Oasis Hotel & Beach Club will launch in Qatar in September.

RADISSON HOTEL GROUP

With a global strategy aimed at reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading hotel groups, Radisson Hotel Group has signed more than 50 hotels in EMEA since the start of 2021, including luxury brand Radisson Collection

Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort

properties, the Radisson brand itself, and the introduction of Radisson Individuals, the new affiliation brand that brings together hotels that meet the group’s high standards of quality and service yet have their own characteristics. Today, with around 150 hotels in operation and under development by 2030 in the Middle East, Radisson Hotel Group continues to steadily grow its presence in the region.

The UAE remains a key market and recent milestones include the opening of the group’s fourth brand – the Radisson Hotel Dubai DAMAC Hills – as well as the opening of Radisson Hotel Group’s first resort in the region, Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island, in addition to further expansion into Saudi Arabia. The group is preparing to open Radisson Resort Dubai Palm Jumeirah this quarter (Q2 2022). The upscale hotel will grow the group’s UAE portfolio to 17 in operation and under development.

In Saudi Arabia, Radisson operates 25 hotels properties and has 20 under development including Radisson Blu Resort, Riyadh Hills Itlalat and Radisson Blu Resort, Riyadh Hills Shalalah. Due to open in Q2 2023, Radisson Blu Resort, Riyadh Hills Itlalat will comprise 135 keys, including rooms and villas to cater to guests looking for larger or long stay accommodation. Radisson Blu Resort, Riyadh Hills Shalalah will feature 120 keys offering guests both serviced apartments

and villas. Radisson Blu Resort, Al Khobar Aziziyah is also planned to open later this year.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

61 hotels, 14,048 keys, in MENA

PIPELINE:

42 hotels, 8,925 keys, in MENA

PIPELINE AMBITION:

150 hotels in operation and development in the Middle East by 2030

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

Marina Resort Port Ghalib, a member of Radisson Individuals, opened in February, marking the debut of this brand in Egypt and bringing the group’s portfolio to eight hotels in operation and under development in the country. Opening soon (Q3), the Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Centre, will feature 200 rooms, a business class lounge, and a 1,075 sqm meetings and events area. It’s walking distance from Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Centre.

2022 FOCUS:

Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel, will be the luxury lifestyle brand's second hotel in the city and when it opens in Q2 2022. The hotel's name comes from its distinct Mansard roofline, designed as an homage to the signature Parisian Haussmann style of the mid-1800s, and evokes images of the grand buildings that line the fashionable boulevards of Paris. It is located in

RADISSON RESORT DUBAI PALM JUMEIRAH

Opening this quarter, this upscale hotel will have 389 rooms and is set to house five F&B outlets overlooking the Dubai Marina skyline and the Gulf. It’s Radisson’s first beach resort in Dubai and will also feature a fitness centre, spa, swimming pools and three meeting rooms.

the Ar Rabi neighbourhood, not far from the King Abdullah Financial District. It offers 191 rooms, serviced apartments, and duplex villas.

ROTANA

Rotana is forging ahead with its expansion plans and has signed seven hotels already this year, while its pipeline comprises 46 upcoming projects, including 10 that will deliver more than 3,000 keys to the market in the next three years. Significant hotel signings and new agreements will take place in Manama, Bahrain and Jubail in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, alongside further expansion

in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Turkey. At the Business Traveller Middle East Awards

2021, Rotana was honoured with ‘Best Hotel Brand in the Middle East' for the fifth consecutive year while its President & CEO, Mr. Guy Hutchinson, was awarded the coveted Leader of the Year Award at Hotelier Middle East Awards. Rotana was designated an authorised ticket reseller for Expo 2020 Dubai, an event it says accelerated the rebuilding of its business in 2021 into 2022, with all hotels trading back to 2019 trading levels. “This is very much because of that impetus that Expo brought to the market,” says the company.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

112 hotels, 18,565 keys, in MENAT

PIPELINE:

42 hotels, 10,357 keys, in MENAT

PIPELINE AMBITIONS:

Four upcoming hotels are scheduled to open in 2022, which will take its total number of operational hotels to 74. The further pipeline encompasses new properties in Saudi Arabia, Iraq and the UAE.

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

Located in Amman’s business and leisure district, the recently opened Centro Mada is Rotana’s third property in Jordan. The 194-key hotel meets the demands of the new generation of travellers, with a lifestyle approach prioritising “style, warmth, and convenience with a dash of creativity”. The hotel features two dining venues,

Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel

Centro Mada

SLEMANI ROTANA

Located in Kurdistan, the five-star Slemani Rotana will open in mid-2022, featuring 240 rooms and suites overlooking the city and the mountains. The modern property will offer five F&B venues, five meeting rooms and a ballroom, a Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, specialised massage treatments, a Jaccuzzi, sauna and steam rooms.

an outdoor temperature-controlled pool on the rooftop, a gym, three meeting rooms and a pre-function area, as well as co-working spaces.

2022 FOCUS:

Rotana continues to strive ahead with steadfast expansion plans, leveraging the buoyant hospitality trade in the region and optimising their performance through a deep understanding of the market and a localised focus. Rotana continues to grow with landmark developments, hotel signings, and new agreements across luxury beach resorts, midscale hotels for business travellers, as well as serviced apartments and residences.

The strategic agreements signed will enable the group to add more than 10,868 keys across the region once completed.

TIME HOTELS

UAE-headquartered hospitality company TIME Hotels celebrated its 10th anniversary in February.

TIME Hotels was founded in Dubai in 2012 under the leadership of Mohamed Awadalla, the co-

founder and CEO. The company initially launched with six properties in Dubai and Sharjah, before introducing a new brand concept ‘TIME Express’ and expanding its portfolio into Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt and most recently Mauritius, TIME’s first property outside of the MENA region.

With five more hotels due to open this year, TIME’s portfolio will have grown to an impressive 19 properties. “Our success as a homegrown brand can be attributed to our progressive corporate strategy which consists of four main pillars – environmental issues, staff welfare, social responsibility and ethical governance.

More than 10% of our existing staff have been with us from the beginning. Another benefit of being independent, is that with a flat management structure, we are also very flexible and have been able to react quickly to market trends and issues,” says Awadalla. Last year the company opened the 45-key TIME Al Muruj hotel apartments in Saudi Arabia and further expansion for the group includes the development of a TIME Motels brand, which will offer a contemporary guest experience that combines stylish design with simplicity and convenience. The conceptual development plans for this are now approved and the company is actively looking at locations throughout the UAE, Saudi and Egypt. This forms part of its strategic business plan to increase its portfolio to 21 properties across the Middle East by the end of 2023.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

15 properties, 1,733 keys in MENA

PIPELINE:

6 properties, 783 keys in MENA

PIPELINE AMBITIONS:

21 properties across the Middle East by the end of 2023

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

Earlier this year, TIME Hotels celebrated its 10th anniversary and revisited some of its key milestones over the past decade, including

securing international sustainability certification, humanitarian projects and a total of 79 local, regional and international awards.

One notable highlight last year was the opening of the 232room TIME Asma Hotel, in Dubai. The management team of this new four-star property comprises entirely of women, including the hotel manager and 80% of the hotel’s employees.

2022 FOCUS:

This year TIME Hotels will add five new properties to its portfolio: TIME Nakheel Deluxe Apartments – New Capital, Egypt; TIME Coral Nuweiba Resort – South Sinai, Egypt; TIME Moonstone Hotel ApartmentsFujairah, UAE; TIME Express Al Olaya – Riyadh, KSA; and the 150-key TIME Marina Hotel & Convention Centre on Egypt’s North Coast. International expansion will include the launch of the group’s debut property in Sudan next year (2023).

THE ASCOTT LIMITED

TIME

DELUXE APARTMENTS - NEW CAPITAL, EGYPT

This mixed-use development (Administrative, Commercial & Hotel Apartments) is located in the heart of the Central Business District in Egypt’s ‘New Capital’, 50km east of Cairo, with easy access to transport links for commuters. The twin-tower structure, which has a panoramic view overlooking the green River and the Iconic Tower, (the tallest tower in Africa), comprises one tower dedicated to commercial office space and administrative units, while the other accommodates a TIME Hotel Apartment with 216 keys.

In 2021, The Ascott Limited secured 15,100 units across 72 properties globally, marking the fifth consecutive year Ascott has achieved record growth in units organically, despite the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years.

At the same time, the serviced apartment brand also achieved its highest-ever property openings in 2021, launching more than 8,200 units in 40 properties across 25 cities and 10 countries.

On a regional level and within a span of one month in Q1 2022, Ascott launched 764 units in the region. This included the opening of Citadines Al Ghubrah Muscat in the Sultanate of Oman; its first venture in the Kazakhstan market with Somerset City Centre Atyrau; and entering the Kenya market with the stylish Somerset

TIME Asma Hotel has an all-female management team

NAKHEEL

SOMERSET DOWNTOWN AL KHOBAR

Somerset Downtown Al Khobar is located on Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Road, close to the city’s shopping malls, beaches, gardens, museums, and restaurants and easily accessible from King Fahd International Airport, King Abdul Aziz Port, and the Bahrain-Khobar causeway. The stylish 16-storey, 139-key property offers one-, two- and three-bedroom spacious apartments with inspiring living spaces, designed to accommodate work and rest, and stunning city views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Amenities include a swimming pool, a fully equipped gymnasium, a children’s play area, meeting rooms, and an in-house restaurant serving global cuisine.

Westview Nairobi. Ascott also hosted the grand opening of its first Somerset hotel apartments in Saudi Arabia, with the launch of Somerset Downtown Al Khobar, and inaugurated its much-awaited re-opening in Qatar Somerset West

Bay Doha. Ascott is on track with its expansion plans to achieve its regional target of adding 5,500 units to its MEAT portfolio, to reach 10,000 units by 2025. It will look to operate an additional 17 properties in the region.

In 2022, Ascott is slated to operate another three properties including Ascott Villas Riyadh, Ascott’s first luxurious gated community of lavish serviced villas and Citadines Abha in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Somerset Al Mansoura Doha in Qatar.

CURRENT PORTFOLIO:

16 operational properties, 2,251 keys, in Middle East, Africa, Turkey and Central Asia

PIPELINE:

17 properties, 2,115 keys, in Middle East, Africa and Turkey

PIPELINE AMBITIONS: 10,000 keys by 2025 in Middle East, Africa and Turkey

2022 HIGHLIGHTS:

Properties Ascott has already opened this year include Citadines Al Ghubrah Muscat, offering a variety of apartments including studios and one-bedrooms; Somerset West Bay Doha, a newly revamped property with one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments; and Somerset Downtown Al Khobar, the group’s seventh property in Saudi Arabia, offering spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.

2022 FOCUS:

Ascott's upcoming launches in the region include two properties in Saudi Arabia – Citadines Abha, offering a range of exclusive studios and one-, and two-bedroom apartments and

Ascott Villas Riyadh, the brand’s first luxurious villas community featuring two- and three-bedroom serviced homes – as well as Somerset Al Mansoura Doha with one- and two-bedroom apartments and lifestyle amenities.

WYNDHAM HOTELS & RESORTS

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is the world’s largest hotel franchising company by the number of properties, with more than 810,000 rooms in around 9,000 hotels across 95 countries on six continents. The company continues to expand across Europe, Middle East, Eurasia and Africa (EMEA) with a number of recent hotel launches and a strong line-up of openings expected in 2022. In 2021 Wyndham achieved nearly 70 new hotel signings across EMEA and a host of exciting openings. In the Middle East, Wyndham continued to bring more accommodation options to Dubai, with openings under the Howard Johnson, Ramada, La Quinta and Days Inn by Wyndham brands. The company also bolstered its leisure offering in Oman with the launch of Wyndham Garden Salalah Mirbat, a waterfront resort in a popular destination in the Sultanate. Turkey saw a continuation of growth as Wyndham further cemented its position as the largest international hotel company by number of properties, reaching nearly 90 hotels with new openings across the country, as well as the debut of its economy brand Days Inn in Istanbul and Ankara. In 2022, there will be two new openings in Saudi Arabia, as well as the launch of the 278-room Wyndham Grand Doha West Bay Beach in Qatar.

Somerset Downtown Al Khobar

Wyndham Grand Doha West Bay Beach in Qatar

ONES TO WATCH

Hotel groups making headway in the Middle East and North Africa region

Collection JVC – the latter of which debuted the firm’s new lifestyle hotel brand, The First Collection. Other projects in the firm’s pipeline include hotels in Dubai’s Business Bay and Jumeirah Village districts.

ENVI LODGES

A new luxury experiential eco-lodge brand and management company, ENVI Lodges, launched in 2021.

The brand, which is the brainchild of co-founders Chris Nader and Noelle Homsy, taps into growing demand for authentic travel experiences, with the value of the global experiential lodging (glamping) market expected to reach $3.9 billion by 2027, with a CAGR of 17.5%.

ENVI Lodges is working with world-class hospitality experts and advisors specialised in experiential travel and in December, joined Beyond Green, a global portfolio of hotels, lodges and resorts representing sustainable tourism leadership.

THE FIRST GROUP

Established in 2005 and initially specialising in residential apartment developments, The First Group today ranks among Dubai’s fastest-growing hotel developers, with a slate of projects currently underway headlined by Ciel, the world’s tallest hotel located in Dubai Marina. Ciel, which has been designed by award-winning architectural firm NORR, will house more than 1,000 guestrooms and suites, as well as premium guest amenities and facilities, such as the Ciel Observatory & Lounge on the 81st floor and a signature rooftop Sky Terrace featuring an infinity pool and bar affording sweeping panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline, the Palm Jumeirah and Arabian Gulf. The imposing tower, which will reach a height of 365 metres, will also

boast standout features including a 300-metre-tall atrium with vertically stacked landscaped and naturally ventilated terraces; a luxury spa and health club located on the building’s 61st floor; and a range of specialty F&B outlets, including a soon-to-beannounced signature restaurant, a Sunset Lounge on the 74th floor and Horizon Bar on the 76th floor.

“Ciel is a landmark development for Dubai that will not only enhance its status as one of the world’s great tourism and business travel destinations but will set a new benchmark for upscale accommodation in what is recognised as one of the most dynamic and competitive hotel markets on the planet,” says Rob Burns, CEO of The First Group. Ciel represents The First Group’s most ambitious project to date and headlines its growing portfolio of properties,

which today comprises Wyndham Dubai Marina, Millennium Place Marina, TRYP by Wyndham Dubai and the recently opened The First

Beyond Green is owned by Preferred Hotel Group, which provides sales, marketing and technology solutions to independent hotels. As part of its partnership with Beyond Green, ENVI will benefit from I Prefer, Preferred Hotel Group’s loyalty rewards programme, enabling guests to earn and redeem points in more than 650 hotels and resorts globally. ENVI Lodges shares Beyond Green’s core values – nature, culture, and community – applied to every aspect of the business.

Ciel

ENVI Lodges launched in 2021

LEVA HOTELS

Lifestyle hotel brand Leva Hotels has a portfolio of five independent and managed properties in the UAE, Oman, Uganda, and Ethiopia with its flagship on Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road – Leva Mazaya Centre.

Leva Hotels plans to accelerate expansion through both management and franchise models across high-demand and under-penetrated cities in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe and has set its sights on rapid growth, adding at least 75 properties by 2032

The company says it fills the gap in the local market for “affordable luxury” and is “working towards enhancing the region’s hospitality offering” with properties that are “design-led, digital-first, and wallet-friendly”.

REVIER

Swiss brand Revier has made its way from the Alps where it launched its first property – Revier Mountain Lodge in Lenzerheide – in 2017, to the desert dunes, with Revier Hotel Dubai in Business Bay offering “a city retreat like no other and a meeting point for the modern and tireless explorers”. The hotel’s 230 rooms and suites are edgy, cosy and functionally

designed with everything the modern nomads need – flexibility, Instagram-able spots and fast Wi-Fi.

SONDER

Sonder says it is a next-generation company that is “revolutionising hospitality through innovative, tech-enabled service and inspiring, thoughtfully designed accommodations combined into one seamless experience”. Launched in 2014 and headquartered in San Francisco, Sonder provides a variety of accommodation options — from spacious rooms to fully-equipped suites and apartments — found in more than 35 markets spanning nine countries and three continents. The Sonder app gives guests full control over their stay.

The company operates two properties in Dubai. The Sonder Downtown Towers opened in October and features 300 fully equipped holiday home suites with two or three bedrooms and kitchens. Guests have access to facilities including an onsite fitness centre inclusive of gym, glistening swimming pool, sauna, steam room and outdoor running track.

It joins Sonder JBR Suites in Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Residences with company currently operating 450 units across the emirate.

GLOBAL HOTEL ALLIANCE (GHA)

Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) brings together a unique collection of independent hospitality brands with GHA DISCOVERY, a multi-brand loyalty programme leveraging a shared technology platform. Through GHA membership, brands expand their global reach, drive incremental revenue, and reduce dependence on third-party channels, while maintaining management independence and individual positioning.

GHA represents a collection of 35 brands with more than 500 hotels in 85 countries serving 11 million members. Alliance brands currently include Anantara, Araiya, Avani, Campbell Gray, Capella, Corinthia, Discovery Destinations, Divani, Doyle, Elewana, Fauchon, GLO, JA Resorts, Kempinski, Leela, Lungarno, Marco Polo, Mysk, Niccolo, Nikki Beach, NUO, Oaks, Outrigger, Pan Pacific, PARKROYAL COLLECTION, PARKROYAL, Patina, The Residence by Cenizaro, Shaza, Sukhothai, Sun International, Tivoli, Ultratravel Collection and Viceroy.

In 2022, GHA DISCOVERY will expand significantly when Madrid-based NH Hotel Group joins the alliance.

This will see its NH Rewards loyalty programme merge with GHA DISCOVERY, establishing the loyalty programme as one of the 10 largest in the hospitality sector, with more than 900 participating hotels. NH Hotel Group comprises three brands – NH Hotels, NH Collection and nhow – operating more than 360 hotels in 30 countries, primarily in Europe and South America. It is majority-owned by current GHA hotel brand partner, Minor Hotels. GHA DISCOVERY recently evolved to include an additional tier and flexible paths to upgrade through nights/stays, eligible purchases or number of brands stayed, making it easier and faster for members to reach elite status. Unlike more traditional programmes, GHA DISCOVERY does not ask members to count points towards their next upgrade. Instead, members earn and spend DISCOVERY Dollars (D$), an exclusive digital rewards currency.

They also enjoy members-only experiences curated by each hotel and have access to properties close to home, without a stay, through local offers.

Revier Hotel Dubai

NH Collection Doha Oasis Hotel – the NH Hotel Group is joining GHA soon

The Jaz in the City café concept

HOT PROPERTY

UAE

TAJ EXOTICA RESORT & SPA (1)

Located on The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, this luxury resort features 325 rooms and suites and is the third Taj-branded hotel in the UAE. Facilities include Taj’s award-winning Jiva spa, a private beach, the longest pool on The Palm Jumeirah, the Popsicle Kids’ Club, and F&B options such as Indian fine dining at Varq; a unique gastropub experience at the Roaring Rabbit; an Arabesque atmosphere at Raia, the rooftop bar and lounge; Palm Kitchen, serving international dishes; and The Coast, a beachside bistro offering coastal delicacies. There are also two ballrooms and multiple meeting rooms.

INK HOTEL DUBAI (2)

INK Hotel is a four-star boutique property located in the Al Jaddaf Waterfront community overlooking Dubai Creek. The five-storey hotel is described as “fun, trendy and offbeat”, focusing on sustainability and “inclusive hospitality”. It features 63 rooms in two sizes, all with floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop swimming pool with Dubai Creek views, a pop-up gym and designated areas for pets. With sustainability crucial to operations, INK Hotel has installed solar panels on the roof and staff uniforms made from recycled plastic. The all-day dining restaurant, Bistro by INK,

has collaborated with the local café roastery, Grandmother, to provide speciality coffee and other goodies. It also stocks climateconscious, ethical, organic teabags from Pukka. INK Hotel is close to contemporary art attractions such as Jameel Arts Centre and Al Jaddaf Waterfront Sculpture and provides access to the 6km waterfront promenade with the weekly INK Running Club hosted by Nike running ambassador Manal Rostom.

25HOURS HOTEL DUBAI ONE CENTRAL (3)

The very first 25hours hotel to open in the Middle East offers 434 rooms and suites and a guest experience that gives a nod to the ancient traditions of the Bedouins, brought back to modern life through innovative design. A fun property with plenty of spaces to work, rest or play, it is intended for real people to “come as they are”. The hotel is just a stone's throw from Dubai International Financial Centre and also overlooks the stunning Museum of the Future. For dining, there’s Tandoor Tina, combining British and North Indian cuisines; Nomad Day Bar by Dubai-based cult coffee roasters, Nightjar; and the super popular Berlin import, Monkey Bar on the rooftop, next to the pool. There’s a spa (The Extra Hour) and an indoor and outdoor gym inspired by the vibes of Venice Beach.

HYDE HOTEL DUBAI (4)

The recently opened Hyde Hotel Dubai in Business Bay is

the second Hyde hotel globally. Described as “a lifestyle concept with personality” if offers large rooms and suites, a home-fromhome guest experience and outstanding dining options. They include Hudson Tavern, the place to grab a beer and craft burger; Cleo, a vibrant Eastern Mediterranean-inspired restaurant promising elevated social dining; and Katsuya, serving Master Sushi Chef Katsuya Uechi’s authentic Japanese cuisine with impressive views of the Burj Khalifa as a backdrop. Facilities also include five meeting rooms, a ballroom, rooftop pool and lounge, a gym and the Cinq Mondes Spa.

ANANTARA WORLD ISLANDS DUBAI RESORT (5)

Anantara’s seventh property in the UAE and the first resort to open on the South American continent of Dubai’s World Islands development features 70 suites and beach and pool villas. The 40 private pool villas have an outdoor

A glance at stand-out hotels just opened or coming soon

dining area and direct access to the beach. Stand-out features include a Cinema under the Stars at the end of a sandbar and Anantara’s signature Dining by Design on the shoreline. Guests can also relax on their own luxurious HamacLand, a unique floating lounge with hammocks and VIP food and drink service. Dining options include Qamar, an Arabic-Indian restaurant with a large southwest facing deck; Helios is a casual Mediterranean restaurant; and Luna, a bar lounge with elevated panoramic views of the Dubai skyline. The Anantara Spa opened in March with six treatment rooms and spa cabanas on the beach. Located approximately 4 km off the coast of Dubai, the resort is a 15-minute ride from the jetty at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.

PARAMOUNT HOTEL

MIDTOWN (6)

Synonymous with entertainment, bold imagination and creativity, Paramount Hotel Midtown in

Dubai’s Business Bay is steeped in the rich 110-year history perfected by Paramount Pictures. It promises “timeless Hollywood elegance” with design touches including a “gold-dipped lobby splashed with retro artwork, a perfect grand entrance in true Hollywood star style”. There are 281 contemporary rooms and suites including Scene Rooms, A-List Suites and a Paramount Suite, decked out with balconies overlooking the Dubai coastline or Burj Khalifa. Gastronomic experiences include Paparazzi Tuscan, CineScope and Melrose Bar & Lounge, as well as Malibu Sky Lounge and Pool Bar with panoramic skyline views. Facilities include four Business Studios, a

PAUSE Spa and PAUSE Fitness Centre, and The Kids Studio Club with a menu of cinematic experiences.

SAUDI ARABIA

JW MARRIOTT HOTEL

RIYADH (7)

Situated on King Fahad Road, five minutes from King Abdullah Financial District, JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh will occupy one of the city’s most desirable addresses when it opens this quarter. It will also be one of the tallest properties in the city, spanning 66 floors, with 349 rooms and suites inspired by Najdi architecture and dining outlets including the renowned JW Steakhouse.

BANYAN TREE ALULA (8)

Opening any day now, Banyan Tree AlUla, located in the stunning Ashar Valley, comprises luxury tents inspired by Nabatean architecture. Each ‘villa’ has its own pool and boasts desert and mountain views, with one-, two- and three-bedroom options available. Guests can dine at one of two venues – Saffron, a signature Banyan Tree Thai restaurant, and an Arabian venue serving authentic local cuisine, while facilities include a Banyan Tree spa and a fitness centre. Experiences on offer will focus on the discovery of AlUla.

SHANGRI-LA JEDDAH (9)

Shangri-La made its brand debut in Saudi Arabia in February with The Shangri-La Jeddah opening in Burj Assila, the city’s building. It features 220 rooms and suites with Red Sea and city views; three restaurants, including the brand’s famous Chinese dining concept, Shang Palace; extensive wellness facilities; a dedicated kids’ club; and versatile meeting and event spaces including the 960 sqm

Shangri-La Grand Ballroom with Red Sea views. The hotel is close to major shopping areas and the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, home to the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix.

QATAR

ZULAL WELLNESS RESORT BY CHIVA-SOM (10)

The region’s largest holistic wellness resort and the world's first contemporary showcase of Traditional Arabic & Islamic Medicine (TAIM), opened on March 29. The resort is managed by Chiva-Som, a globally acclaimed pioneer in wellness and lifestyle transformation with 26 years’ experience honed at its flagship resort in Hua Hin, Thailand. The Zulal wellness experience is built on six pillars of wellness: Nutrition, Fitness, Spa, Physiotherapy, Holistic Health and Aesthetics, all infused with TAIM. At Zulal Wellness Resort, there are two distinct paths to achieving wellness goals. Zulal Serenity is the adults-only area for guests aged 16-plus, with 60 rooms and suites and programmes tailored to individual health needs. Extensive wellness facilities include thermal and hydrotherapy suites, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, spa suites, a well-equipped gymnasium, exercise studios, a state-of-theart physiotherapy studio and an aesthetics centre. Zulal Discovery caters to guests seeking family experiences and to make wellness an integral part of the family bond, with programmes customised for multi-generations and specific age groups. Facilities have been designed by child and family specialists. Accommodation is offered in a range of set-ups across 120 rooms and suites.

VOCO DOHA WEST BAY (11)

This 46-floor property in West Bay has 396 rooms and suites, “well-loved” restaurant and lounges including The Social, Serenitea, and Sky Lounge on the 35th floor, plus an exclusive helipad and facilities including a pool deck, a 24-hour gym with steam, sauna and Jacuzzi, a spa and a kids’ wading pool and five meeting rooms. The property

offers a selection of studios, and one-, two- and three-bedroom fully serviced suites.

OMAN

AVANI MUSCAT HOTEL (12)

This contemporary brand's first property in the Sultanate of Oman is located in Seeb, close to Muscat International, and features 161 guest rooms with in-room workspaces as well as 45 studios and one, two- and threebedroom serviced apartments. Dining options include Trisis, a nature-inspired all-day dining restaurant with indoor tree features specialising in Omani, Arabic and international cuisines; Avani's gourmet grab-and-go concept Pantry, known for its honest, nutritious meals and speciality coffee; and the alfresco Patio Bar next to the pool. Dedicated exercise and health club amenities are available at AvaniFit and

the multifunctional events space includes a 720 sqm ballroom.

JORDAN

THE RITZ-CARLTON AMMAN (13)

The Ritz-Carlton Amman Hotel opens its doors this month (May 2022). Located in two towers, the brand's first property in Jordan will feature 228 rooms and 34 suites, complemented by the brand’s legendary service. It will feature an elegant Cigar Lounge, a Mediterranean venue, and a rooftop restaurant and bar, plus indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre and spa, and a 1,000 sqm ballroom.

EGYPT

MARINA RESORT PORT GHALIB

(14)

Marina Resort Port Ghalib, a

member of Radisson Individuals, opened in February, growing the Radisson Hotel Group’s portfolio to eight hotels in operation and under development in Egypt. It features 59 rooms and suites and five bars and restaurants and is located on the Red Sea desert coastline, next to Port Ghalib’s palm tree-lined promenade and popular yacht-docking harbour, with direct beach access and its own water park. The resort is also near to attractions including the popular dive site Marsa Mubarak where visitors can get close to fish, sea turtles, and local marine mammals.

THE ROYAL ATLANTIS RESORT & RESIDENCES (15)

Another Dubai icon in the making, the Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences, sitting next to its pink sister on The Palm, will feature some 90 swimming pools, including a stunning rooftop infinity pool suspended 96 metres above the manmade island on level 22. The hotel will offer 17 restaurants and bars, with some of the world’s leading international celebrity chefs at the helm including Gasón Acurio, Costas Spiliadis, Ariana Bundy, Heston Blumenthal and Jose Andres. The resort also recently announced it has joined forces with the Hakkasan Group to open the world’s third Ling restaurant. The lobby will double up as an entertainment venue, home to a dramatic fire and water attraction and one of the largest jellyfish tanks in the world, housing approximately 2,000 jellyfish.

LXR HOTELS & RESORTS ABU DHABI (16)

LXR Hotels & Resorts, Hilton’s collection of independent luxury properties, will open a new golf resort on the private Al Nawras Island in Abu Dhabi next year. It will offer 80 beach and water villas, as well as a 450 sqm two-bedroom Royal Villa surrounding the golf course. Al Nawras Island will place a strong emphasis on exploration, expression, and wellbeing. Among the property’s world-class leisure and recreational facilities are an upscale gym, fitness studio, and three swimming pools – one indoor and two outdoor – as well as tennis and padel courts, a private marina, exclusive beach club, and elaborate spa. Children will have access to a playground, dedicated swimming pool, splash pad and club. The property will also feature an array of culinary offerings – from two signature restaurants with al fresco dining areas, to two tasteful bars and a wellness-inspired café.

RIXOS DUBAI HOTEL & SUITES JEWEL OF THE CREEK (17)

Part of a three-hotel complex at the upcoming Jewel of the Creek development in the Port Saeed area of Deira, Rixos Dubai Hotel & Suites, opening soon (2022), will feature 770 rooms and suites and outstanding leisure, entertainment, sports and gastronomy experiences for which the Turkish brand is known. A large conference centre, commercial zone, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, a fitness centre, wellness centre, infinity pool, entertainment and show arena and beach promenade, plus kids and teens facilities are all planned.

KEMPINSKI FLOATING PALACE (18)

The world’s first floating sea palace resort, Kempinski Floating Palace, anchored next to the popular stretch of beach on Dubai's Jumeirah Beach Road, will open in 2023 with 256 rooms, suites and villas. It will also feature a floating helipad next to an impressive yacht parking deck for up to 16 yachts. The main building of this floating palace, structured in four parts, is connected in the middle by a glass pyramid, home to exclusive gourmet restaurants, bars, a spa, pools, boutiques and banquet areas and offers the possibility for even larger yachts to sail in and out at the centre of the hotel. Some of the 12 two-storey luxury villas, connected by pontoons, are for sale, but also for rent by hotel guests, and benefit from all the services offered at the hotel. Not only will they feature a roof terrace and infinity pool and indoor and outdoor living rooms, but each doubles up as a luxury houseboat with all the technical features of a smart home. Cruising at a maximum speed of six nautical miles, the villas are equipped with solar panels and are designed to be environmentally friendly. There are two-, three- and four-bedroom options available.

ANANTARA MINA AL ARAB

RAS AL KHAIMAH (19)

Part of the new Mina Al Arab luxury development, a beachfront playground with a marina, waterfront cafés and boutiques, the Maldivian-style resort will feature 174 guest rooms, suites and overwater villas. Highlights will include an eco-learning centre, outdoor pool, Anantara Spa, health club with gym and fitness studios and dining options such as a specialty Asian restaurant and a seafood grill by the beach.

NH DUBAI THE PALM (20)

NH Dubai The Palm, part of the Minor Hotels group, will be located on the west-facing area of The Palm’s trunk, featuring 533 rooms, a sports bar, rooftop bar and lounge by an infinity pool.

W DUBAI –

MINA SEYAHI (21)

Opening soon, this 318-key property is the UAE's third W Hotel. It will feature five restaurants, bars and lounges, a 1Rebel fitness studio, Bar-B Spa and stunning pool facilities.

MARRIOTT RESORT PALM

JUMEIRAH (22)

The first Marriott resort in Dubai will be a gastronomic destination in its own right with eight restaurants offering a wide range of global cuisine from Korean and Italian to Japanese and Mexican. Adding to the growing Peruvian restaurant scene, ‘Above Eleven’ will entice guests with a garden maze at

its entrance. It will feature 608 guestrooms and a world-class spa.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL

WASL TOWER (23)

Mandarin Oriental’s second Dubai property will be located on Sheikh Zayed Road in a striking 63-storey property featuring 257 rooms, suites and serviced apartments. Outstanding dining experiences will be a focus at this luxury property, which will offer a “lively rooftop sky bar with citywide views”, a signature restaurant, all-day dining venue, poolside bar and restaurant, lobby lounge, club lounge, cigar room and a Mandarin Oriental Cake Shop.

RADISSON RESORT PALM JUMEIRAH (24)

Radisson's new 389-room resort on The Palm Jumeirah will open this summer, offering 389 rooms, five restaurants and bars, a fitness centre, spa, swimming pools and three meeting rooms.

MAMA SHELTER DUBAI

Mama Shelter is bringing its affordable hospitality and edgy style to Dubai’s Business Bay in 2023. Designed as a city resort, Mama Dubai will feature 197 rooms, a brick-oven pizzeria, cocktail bars, four pools and an outdoor cinema.

SAUDI ARABIA THE RITZ-CARLTON DIRIYAH AND THE LUXURY COLLECTION DIRIYAH (25)

Marriott will open two luxury hotels as part of the Diriyah Project in Saudi Arabia. The Ritz-Carlton and The Luxury Collection properties will be located around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif. Slated to open in 2025, The Ritz-Carlton, Diriyah, Riyadh will feature 195 rooms and suites, a specialty restaurant, an all-day dining venue, meeting rooms, an outdoor pool and a fitness centre. Ritz Kids, the brand’s signature kids’ club and programming are part of the vision, as are a signature spa and immersive guest programmes. The Luxury Collection in Diriyah, Riyadh (pictured above), situated in the Samhan district, will open this year, offering 141 guestrooms, including 27 suites. Two signature restaurants, an all-day-dining venue, a coffee and juice bar, fitness centre, pool and spa, plus meeting and event facilities, are all planned at this property.

THE RIXOS OBHUR JEDDAH (26)

This involves the upgrade and restyle of the current Makarem Annakheel Village, transforming it into luxury resort featuring a water park, swimming pools, as well as villas with private pools. It will be the first luxurious integrated resort in Jeddah, meeting increasing demand for this type of destination offering in the city. Located in Obhur Bay on the Red Sea, Rixos Obhur Jeddah will feature a private beach and 247 residential units, including 174 rooms and 73 villas, plus a Club Prive lounge, a fine-dining restaurant, a lounge bar, and two specialty beach restaurants. Facilities will include a fitness club, a male and female spa, clubs for kids and teens, and several swimming pools, plus meetings and events facilities. Beaches, a seaport, and a plaza ocean views will also be part of this new development.

FOUR SEASONS DIRIYAH

The Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, an opening date for which has not been revealed, will include around 150 rooms and suites, expansive meeting and event spacs, a wellness spa with seven treatment rooms and a fitness centre, as well as two

outdoor pools with private cabanas. It will also offer four culinary outlets, including a poolside restaurant and Sunset lounge. The hotel will be adjacent to Diriyah’s culturally rooted district along the Wadi Hanifah escarpment.

RAFFLES JEDDAH

Inspired by the rich history of Saudi Arabia and Jeddah’s old-town architecture, Raffles Jeddah, opening this year, will have 181 guestrooms – including a spectacular wedding suite and penthouse 'entertainment' suite

RED SEA PROJECT HOTELS

By 2030, The Red Sea Project will feature 50 hotels and around 1,000 residences on 22 islands and six inland sites. Properties currently signed will represent the following brands: Edition and St Regis by Marriott International; Fairmont, Raffles and SLS, part of Accor; a Grand Hyatt by Hyatt Hotels Corporation; InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Six Senses, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts; and a property by Dubai-headquartered Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. Details revealed so far include:

St. Regis Red Sea Resort

Situated on a private island, this St. Regis resort is expected to feature 90 villas, two signature restaurants, an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, plus a kids’ club. It is expected to open in 2023.

Raffles Red Sea

Raffles Red Sea will offer its signature personalised hospitality across its room and suite options, plus six dining destinations, a spa and several meeting venues.

Fairmont Red Sea

A luxurious family, wellness and nature focused resort featuring 200 rooms, seven dining outlets, including overwater restaurants, meetings and event space, a greenhouse and a spa centre. It will be situated next to an 18-hole championship golf course.

SLS Red Sea

Opening in Q1 2023, the property will feature 150 hotel rooms, suites and private pool villas, Ennismore's top culinary and mixology experiences including Seabird, Fi'lia and Floating World, plus a Ciel Spa Altitude Pool and fitness centre.

Grand Hyatt The Red Sea

The 430-room Grand Hyatt The Red Sea will be located on Shaura Island, the project’s hub on Saudi Arabia’s west coast. The luxury resort will be the largest of 11 hotels set to open on the island and will be located near the Red Sea International Airport.

PORSCHE HOTEL

Saudi Arabia will be the launch destination for the new Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels brand. Deutsche Hospitality and the Porsche Design Group are joining forces to create the innovative hotel concept, which will “bring together design, technology and lifestyle at the very highest level”. The plan is to open least 15 hotels in major cities globally, including London, Singapore, Dubai and Shanghai. Marcus Bernhardt, CEO of Steigenberger Hotels AG/Deutsche Hospitality, says: “Our joint goal is to establish a new hotel product for a global target group, which seeks uniqueness and has the highest aspirations regarding quality.” No further details on the KSA property have been revealed to date.

– and 188 branded residences. Alongside six restaurants and lounges, including a gentlemenonly lounge, there will be an extensive library, a 1,200 sqm spa with eight treatment rooms, and a state-of-the-art fitness club. The hotel’s meeting facilities include a 1,500 sqm ballroom overlooking the corniche and 1,000 sqm of conference rooms.

KEMPINSKI HOTEL & RESORT YANBU AND KEMPINSKI AL QESHAN HOTEL (27)

Kempinski is opening two new luxury properties in Saudi Arabia. Launching on Al Mahar Island on the Red Sea waterfront later this year, the Kempinski Hotel & Resort Yanbu is an existing property being renovated and repositioned as an elegant high-end resort hotel, offering “community club-like experiences”. It will feature five gourmet restaurants and lounges, extensive spa facilities and exceptional meeting spaces, with accommodation upgraded to reduce the number of deluxe rooms and instead, offer 23 additional suites, 12 villas and 48 designer apartments. Facilities will also include an infinity pool, a fitness centre, a private beach, a marina for excursions, a diving school, and spacious meeting and conference areas, which will be suited to weddings. There will be a separate and exclusive Ladies’ Spa too. Kempinski has also signed a deal to manage Kempinski Al

Qeshan Hotel, located in Riyadh’s Al Olaya business district on King Fahad Road. It will offer 150 elegant rooms and suites, 10 serviced apartments, separate male and female spa facilities, two high-end restaurants and a rooftop terrace with lounge and pool.

DESERT ROCK (28)

Hotels are wowing guests with a wide range of imaginative ‘immersive experiences’ these days, such is the trend, but The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) in Saudi Arabia is taking it to the

next level by carving a luxury hotel into a rock mountain. The Desert Rock resort, part of The Red Sea Project, celebrates Saudi Arabia’s spectacular natural beauty and Nabatean heritage. Inspired by the surrounding mountains, volcanoes and wadis, Desert Rock will feature 48 villas and 12 hotel suites, ranging from ground-level dwellings to crevice hotel suites, midway up the mountain. It will also house a spa, fitness centre, remote dining areas and a lagoon oasis. Guests will enter the resort, which is due for completion

in 2023, via a hidden valley. This property will offer guests uninterrupted spectacular views.

QATAR

FAIRMONT HOTEL AND RAFFLES HOTEL & BRANDED RESIDENCES (29)

The iconic Lusail Towers development – an architectural translation of Qatar’s national seal, representing the traditional scimitar swords – will play host to two of the world’s leading luxury hotel brands, Raffles and Fairmont, with both properties set to open this year ahead of the World Cup. The towers will rise gracefully from podium level, one occupied by the six-star Raffles Hotel & Branded Residences featuring 132 suites and 49 apartments, and the other home to the five-star Fairmont with 361 rooms and suites and

pitched at business travellers. State-of-the-art entertainment and recreational facilities, including specialist boutiques, VIP movie theatres, signature restaurants and a private Cigar Lounge, as well as banqueting and conference spaces are all part of this project, developed by Katara Hospitality.

PALAIS VENDÔME AND LE ROYAL MÉRIDIEN DOHA

(30)

A lavish hospitality experience embodying classical Parisian elegance will set Palais Vendôme (pictured) apart when it opens this year. This Luxury Collection Hotel with a palatial presence will feature 250 rooms, including two Presidential Suites, and will be part of a three-property complex. It will mark the entry of the brand into Qatar, offering global explorers a “unique gateway to this visionary destination”. Le Royal Méridien Doha, which is part of the same

development, will offer a more contemporary style, reflecting modern French culture and design. The property will house 250 guest rooms, including a Presidential Suite in one wing, and the other will house 150 serviced apartments.

AL SAMRIYA AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION HOTEL

Opening soon in a unique location – the middle of Al Samriya Farm, part of Qatar’s Shahaniya area – the Al Samriya Autograph Collection Hotel has been built using traditional materials

and masonry from the farm. Comprising 62 rooms and 26 villas, a spa and a restaurant, the property is walking distance from three attractions – The Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, the Al Samriya Equestrian Centre and the farm’s oryx reserve.

RIXOS DOHA QETAIFAN (31)

Turkish all-inclusive resort brand Rixos will make its debut in Doha this year. Rixos Doha Qetaifan will not only feature a 345-key hotel, but facilities that will elevate the Qatari capital’s tourism offering including a Souq, a beach club, theme park and water park. The property will be part of Qetaifan Island North project, a new island destination close to Lusail City, located 27km from Hamad

International and accessible via two iconic hanging bridges linking the island to the mainland. The theme park will feature The Icon Tower, the world’s highest structure of its kind, standing 82 metres and promising guests a memorable adrenaline rush.

SWISSÔTEL DOHA CORNICHE PARK TOWERS (32)

A contemporary and stylish hotel promising service quality and 476 innovatively designed rooms with modular functionality reflecting the brand’s Alpine heritage.

THE PLAZA DOHA ANANTARA HOTEL & SUITES (33)

Minor Hotels will open its second Anantara property in Qatar in the last quarter of this year. The Plaza Doha Anantara Hotel & Suites, located in Um Ghuwelina, will feature 118 guest rooms and 172

serviced apartment suites, plus a large ballroom and six meeting rooms. It will be a grand-looking property with a palatial façade and inside, blend Parisian design with Arabian luxury, with examples including the hotel’s centre piece – an elegant, air-conditioned courtyard atrium. For leisure, guests will be able to choose from a rooftop infinity pool, indoor pool, a gym and a signature Anantara Spa. A kids’ play area and multiple dining options are also among the hotel’s highlights.

NH COLLECTION DOHA OASIS HOTEL & BEACH CLUB (34)

Slated to open in mid-2022, this property is located in the Ras Abu Abboud area along Doha’s eastern coast, midway between the city centre and Hamad International Airport. The previous Oasis Hotel, from where the new property takes its name, was in the same location

and was Doha’s first ever hotel when it opened in the 1950s. The hotel has a rich history and was a prominent destination for local Qataris, residents and state visitors, with many celebrations and official events having taken place there. The fully redeveloped NH property will feature 300 rooms and more than 50 suites, F&B, six restaurants and bars, male and female spas and gyms, a large ballroom and meeting rooms, plus a beach club with a swimming pool and padel tennis courts.

ANDAZ DOHA (35)

Hyatt will debut its luxury lifestyle Andaz brand November this year to coincide with the FIFA World Cup tournament. The 318-guestroom Andaz Doha, located in the West Bay area of the city, close to embassies, consulates and key government institutions, will boast sea views and four food and beverage outlets.

EGYPT MANDARIN ORIENTAL SHEPHEARD CAIRO

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has signed a management agreement to rebrand the historic Shepheard Hotel in Cairo, Egypt. A comprehensive renovation of the landmark property, which first opened in 1841, is underway. Parisbased interior designer, Sybille de Margerie, is tasked with preserving

the building’s heritage design while enhancing facilities and services. Upon completion in 2024, the hotel will feature 188 rooms and 88 suites with views of the city, the Nile and Gezira Island; five restaurants and bars; a ballroom and meeting space; plus a Spa at Mandarin Oriental, an indoor lap pool, rooftop swimming pool, beauty salon, fitness centre and a kids’ club.

SOFITEL CAIRO NEW CAPITAL HOTEL & RESIDENCES (36)

Located in the New Administrative Capital (NAC) of Cairo, this new flagship property will comprise

two towers and a podium, with one tower featuring 200 hotel keys and 280 branded residences, from one to four bedrooms, and the second tower housing offices and commercial spaces. Five dining venues, meeting space and large recreational areas will also be part of the offering. The New Administrative Capital is home to parks, an international airport, educational institutes, medical facilities and 20 skyscrapers, including Africa’s tallest tower. The property will also offer convenient and easy access to the main roads running from north to south and further connecting the NAC to the rest of Cairo.

Virgin Hyperloop can accelerate the future of mobility on land. The new mode of travel at supersonic speed rethinks transportation and the perception of space, landscape, time, and distance”

BJARKE

INGELS

FOUNDER

& CREATIVE

DIRECTOR,

BIG-BJARKE INGELS GROUP

The Future of travel

Headwinds of change

After more than two years there are finally encouraging signs the pandemic may be on the wane. The airline and travel business has taken a beating and nothing can be taken for granted, but the Omicron variant, while highly infectious, has proved to be much less severe in terms of illness, hospitalisations and mortalities.

However, just as the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel appears to be brightening, we now face the war in Europe.

This is bringing further challenges for the industry, including some airlines being prohibited from using Russian airspace, important for many European services to Asia, while others have had to switch routings around Ukrainian airspace.

The conflict has further caused a rapid rise in fuel prices, adding to airline costs at a time of fragile demand when it is difficult if not impossible to pass these on in higher fares.

In the Gulf region there are many encouraging examples of how airlines have adapted to the challenges of the last two years.

The large network airlines such as Emirates Airline, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways

have used the cargo capacity of their largest aircraft to good effect where demand has been strong. They have been able to partially compensate for the lack of passenger traffic.

In addition, they have equally flexed their networks to tap into sources of strong demand, where these have been available.

Qatar has operated a diverse network throughout the pandemic, able to use a good variety of aircraft sizes in its fleet to optimise the capacity offer.

It has also maintained availability of flights on routes where, in some cases, other airlines have not been flying.

This way it has successfully positioned its on-board product and ease of transfer at its Doha hub, Hamad International.

It has been an investment in gaining potential repeat business in the future.

Unfortunately, Emirates has seen much less transfer traffic compared to pre-pandemic, which was truly expected as many important markets have been shut, especially in Asia.

However, the airline has benefitted from Dubai’s careful and progressive reopening to tourism and conference traffic.

Dubai has long benefitted from a substantial local market, and this has been getting increasingly important lately.

It has also been boosted by Expo 2020, which ran from October 1 2021 to March 31 2022 and attracted some 24 million visits. The strength of traffic recovery has allowed Emirates to return to service 100plus of its large A380s. Some important destinations including the UK are now back to an almost normal schedule.

Although Etihad decided to downsize to become more of a mid-size airline by modifying and reviewing its business model, it has been able to continue its business, strangely helped by the pandemic. Etihad has further performed well in carrying cargo and recently placed an order for Airbus A350 freighters, indicating the importance of the nonpassenger segment for the future.

We have also seen a rapid and agile development by a number of the region’s low-cost carriers.

Air Arabia, the largest and longest established LCC in the Gulf, has continued to grow and opened a new unit in Abu Dhabi where it has partnered up with Etihad to deliver feeder

traffic. Remarkably, despite the demanding market conditions, it has delivered a profit over the last year.

flydubai, which in addition to the pandemic had to deal with the grounding of its Boeing 737 Max aircraft, has seen these returned to service and has focused on developing a few new leisure destinations from Dubai, many of which that have never been done before. Therefore, it too has returned to profitability.

flyadeal in Saudi Arabia is the only LCC in the region to have a large domestic market and this has buoyed its recovery and expansion of activity.

Kuwait’s Jazeera is yet another carrier to restore profitability, which has used its new A320 Neo fleet to open new routes, including to London Heathrow.

An LCC newcomer in the region is Wizzair, which has now established a subsidiary in Abu Dhabi. Wizzair sees the pandemic as an opportunity for growth and has recently announced that it will double the number of aircraft in Abu Dhabi from four to eight. It’s good to see the dynamism of the Gulf market and the agility of its leading airlines in turning a terrible crisis to opportunity.

John Strickland, Director of JLS Consulting, looks at how the region’s aviation sector has turned a crisis into new opportunities

Eased restrictions and airline resilience will drive aviation growth

Air travel is once again gaining momentum as governments across the world continue to lift travel restrictions. It is now clear that countries that continue to try and lock-out the disease, rather than manage it, risk missing out on the significant economic and societal benefits that international aviation brings.

In the Middle East, airline traffic rose 215.3% in February 2022 compared to February 2021, well up compared to the 145% increase in January 2022, versus the same month in 2021.

The improvement was driven by the fall in Omicron infections and the corresponding increase in travel demand. Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are welcoming increasing numbers of travellers for tourism and businessrelated events, which is enabling air traffic to hover close to pre-crisis levels.

African airlines had a 69.5% rise in February RPKs versus a year ago, a major improvement compared to the 20.5% year-over-year increase recorded in January 2022 compared to the same month in 2021. February 2022 capacity was up 34.7% and load factor climbed 12.9 percentage points to 63%.

In general, airlines across the Middle East and Africa have adapted and learned significant lessons from the past few years, particularly on how to be more commercially robust, flexible and how to adopt a digital-first approach.

This has enabled airlines to effectively manage downturns and remain resilient throughout them. Now, with the increase in travel demand and easing of restrictions, we expect to see a steady rise in air traffic growth.

As of March 2022, African airlines were scheduled to receive 29% more aircraft deliveries in 2022 compared with 2021 while Middle Eastern carriers are expected to obtain 47% more deliveries over the same period. This signals a positive upswing with airlines looking to invest in more sustainable and efficient aircraft to meet future travel demand.

Improving pandemic developments globally bode well for the air travel recovery in 2022, though the geopolitical issues in Eastern Europe combined with rising inflationary pressures will negatively impact some markets. The conflict in Eastern Europe is creating significant new challenges, notably in air cargo rates and capacity as well as economic activity.

Fuel has also clearly been a major challenge for airlines. Globally there has been a very significant increase in jet fuel prices and with fuel representing the single biggest cost base of the industry, airlines will face a difficult period until costs stabilise.

As the long-awaited recovery in air travel accelerates, it is important that infrastructure providers are prepared for a major increase in passenger numbers in the coming months. The peak northern

summer travel season will be critical for jobs throughout the travel and tourism value chain. Governments can help by ensuring that border positions are staffed adequately and that background security checks for new staff are managed as efficiently as possible.

The recovery of the aviation sector is heading in the right direction, says Kamil Al-Awadhi, Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, the International Air Transport Association (IATA)

“In the Middle East, airline traffic rose 215.3% in February 2022”

SMART MOBILITY

While the pandemic temporarily put a halt on global mobility, planes, trains, and automobiles are now on the move again, and larger trends in the transportation industry continue to emerge. If anything, the last few years have accelerated awareness of the need for more environmentally friendly, resilient, comfortable, and affordable ways to move around. Here are some top trends and new transport solutions defining the future of mobility.

TRANSPORTATION HYDROGEN-POWERED AIRCRAFT

With the global aviation industry responsible for around 2.1% of all human-induced CO2 emissions, and 12% of all CO2 emissions from transport, the race is on to fly hydrogen-powered planes. Airbus aims to develop the world’s first zero-emission commercial aircraft by 2035. It says hydrogen propulsion will help realise this ambition. This year the aircraft manufacturer launched its ZEROe demonstrator, with the goal to test hydrogen combustion technology on an A380 multimodal platform. Meanwhile, Boeing is focusing its efforts on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). “SAF is a safe, proven, immediate solution that will help achieve our industry's long-term commitment to net zero carbon emissions by 2050,” says Sheila Remes, Boeing Vice President of Environmental Sustainability. “Boeing has been a pioneer in making sustainable aviation fuels a reality.”

The way in which we travel from A to B is changing, with new transport solutions emerging regionally and globally

URBAN AIR MOBILITY (UAM)

By 2030, 60% of the world's population will be urban. “This significant population growth is expected to create a real need for innovative mobility options as ground infrastructure becomes increasingly congested,” says Airbus. “Providing people with a safe, sustainable, and convenient solution that leverages the airspace above cities could be a solution.” Since 2014, Airbus has been exploring how recent technology advancements – from battery capacity and autonomy to electric propulsion – can help drive the development of new kinds of aerial vehicles.

In May 2018, the company launched its Airbus Urban Mobility (UAM) strategy, encompassing the development of new technology including electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, as well as airspace management, building the critical infrastructure necessary to allow new aircraft, including air taxis and delivery drones, to safely enter and share the skies of our future. Its CityAirbus NextGen is an

“In designing cities and urban infrastructure for the 21st century, mobility is at the centre of the equation. Through this joint venture with Volocopter, we are demonstrating to the world that NEOM is the ideal region to implement urban air mobility rapidly and create a fully integrated vertical mobility ecosystem. NEOM is on a mission to become a global living lab for future mobility, and we are very excited

Saudi Arabia makes UAM headway

As Saudi Arabia progresses with Vision 2030, encompassing some huge infrastructure developments, including new cities and destinations, it is building Urban Air Mobility (UAM) into its

master-planning

In March, Airbus and The Helicopter Company (THC) signed a deal to continue expanding helicopter activities, including those using Sustainable Aviation Fuels, as well as the introduction of UAM services in the country.

The agreed cooperation between the parties and the kingdom's aviation regulatory authorities will enable the safe application of these solutions to segments including emergency medical services, eco tourism and private and business aviation.

all-electric, four-seat eVTOL multicopter concept featuring a wing. It boasts an 80-km range and a cruise speed of 120 km/h – making it perfectly suited to zero-emission flight operations for a variety of applications in major cities. Other aircraft companies making headway with UAM include Eve Urban Air Mobility (an Embraer company) and executive aviation firm Jetex. They have teamed up to develop a UAM ecosystem to make air commuting more accessible and convenient for everyone, based on new eVTOL aircraft that are “100% electric, quiet and safe”. “eVTOL aircraft are the future of transportation aimed at easing congestion and bypassing any potential ground mobility restrictions,” says Jetex.

This follows NEOM, the smart and sustainable regional development in northwest Saudi Arabia, and Volocopter, another urban air mobility pioneer, establishing a joint venture (JV) company to design, implement, and operate the world’s first bespoke public vertical mobility system.

Air taxi and vertical logistics services will be fully integrated with the overall multi-modal and zero-emission public transit system in NEOM.

The JV will be the sole operator of initial public transit routes while enabling an open eVTOL ecosystem for vertical mobility services including logistics, emergency response, and tourism. NEOM has placed a confirmed order of 15 Volocopter aircraft to commence initial flight operations within the next two to three years.

The Airbus ZEROe demonstrator

The CityAirbus NextGen

Volocopter aircraft

to see what the future holds as we grow”

Nadhmi Al-Nasr, Chief Executive Officer, NEOM

SUPERSONIC FLIGHTS

US carrier United has announced its ambition to “return supersonic speeds to aviation” by 2029.

It plans to buy 15 new ‘Overture’ airliners by Boom, a Denver-based company, once safety, operating and sustainability requirements have been met, with an option for 35 more aircraft. The net-zero carbon aircraft will fly on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Previous supersonic passenger flights ended in 2003 when British Airways and Air France retired the Concorde. The definition of supersonic flight is when an aircraft travels faster than the speed of sound, which is approximately 660mph (1,060km/h) if the aircraft is travelling at an altitude of 60,000ft (18,300m).

PRIVATE JET MEETS SUPERYACHT

Private jet passengers could soon be able to travel through the air and underwater on the same craft, with aircraft overhaul and maintenance specialist Lufthansa Technik unveiling a new cabin design concept for the Airbus Corporate Jet ACJ330 last year.

Giving those on board the chance to “discover the world”, the ‘Explorer’ cabin takes inspiration

from explorer superyachts, which tend to be either purpose built, or converted to ensure long-distance cruising to isolated areas of the world. Designed to accommodate between 10 and16 passengers, its primary purpose is to provide the most positive passenger experience possible to those on board, according to the German company.

Explorer is described as a “flying hotel”, designed to “go anywhere at any time”, with the cabin floorplan including dedicated areas for mission briefings, dining, fitness, spa and even a dance floor. “Furthermore, you can take all your special equipment with you,” says Lufthansa Technik. “No matter if it is a car, off-road vehicle, wing suite, wine cellar, exploration laboratory or even an emergency medical room - or anything else you might dream off.” It will also feature an outdoor seating area.

The Boom ‘Overture’

The Explorer floorplan

HYPERLOOPS

Several bullet trains and transport capsules are currently being developed to carry people and cargo at unprecedented speeds.

They include ultra-high-speed hyperloop systems, which will not only pave the way for land-based commuting, connecting people from one city to the next in minutes, but facilitate the delivery of high-priority and time-critical goods such as medical supplies and food.

Virgin Hyperloop successfully tested hyperloop technology with passengers in 2019, launching the first new mode of mass transportation in more than 100 years.

The company operated an occupied hyperloop vehicle using electric propulsion and electromagnetic levitation under near-vacuum conditions, realising a fundamentally new form of transportation that is faster, safer, cheaper, and more sustainable than existing modes.

The company is now working with governments, partners, and investors around the world to make hyperloop a reality in years, not decades. The Virgin Hyperloop delivers airline speeds (760 mph), the same G-forces as rail, and the ease of riding a metro and what’s more, it’s affordable, and therefore accessible to all.

Each hyperloop pod carries up to 28 passengers. At Expo 2020 Dubai, Virgin Hyperloop showcased a full-scale hyperloop cargo pod and

Dubai’s global ports operator recently invested US$50 million in Virgin Hyperloop, with a view to establishing a hyperloop line connecting Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

This could reduce the travel time between the

two cities from the current one hour by car to about 12 minutes.

Virgin Hyperloop One is working with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and other government entities to explore how the network might function in the emirate, particularly in relation to existing transport networks.

AUTONOMOUS PODS

Autonomous transport is set to transform urban mobility, with self-drive vehicles being developed spanning cars, buses, trucks, aircraft, boats and more, and companies including Google, Apple, Tesla, Uber, and Lyft all seeking solutions. For some, like Uber and Lyft, autonomous transport is one way to cut costs, but other benefits include lowering fuel consumption, reducing CO2 emissions, and easing congestion. In the Middle East, several driverless trials are underway.

Sharjah’s sky rail

The UAE is a trailblazer of smart transport, with a wide range of solutions, from autonomous vehicles to high-speed hyperloops, currently in development.

In 2025, Sharjah will launch the uSky elevated string rail transport system for cargo and passengers, with a testing facility already operational in the emirate.

Developed by Unitsky String Technologies Inc. (UST), a Belarusian-based eco-friendly, safe and comfortable transport solutions specialist, uSky travels at speeds of up to 150 km/h, with a capacity for 50,000 passengers per hour.

The Sharjah rail development is just the start, with UST planning to grow its portfolio to 10 projects by the end of 2022.

Visitors to AlUla in Saudi Arabia can now use a new, fully autonomous pod vehicle service. Paving the way for future of sustainable, zero-emission mobility, the pilot scheme provides passengers with a quick link to AlUla’s Old Town from the south car park. The service is part of the Royal Commission for AlUla’s (RCU) comprehensive Journey Through Time (JTT) masterplan to develop a range of fully integrated, accessible and environmentally friendly public transport options. Each electric-powered pod can carry up to 22 people (8 seated, 14 standing) and passengers ride free of charge.

As the pilot continues, the pod service will be expanded to other areas of AlUla, including Dadan, Hegra and AlJadidah later in the year.

a cutaway passenger pod as part of DP World’s FLOW pavilion.

Each hyperloop pod carries up to 28 passengers

AlUla’s autonomous pods

Sharjah’s uSky

THE DUBAI AUTONOMOUS STRATEGY

The the Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy (DATS) aims to convert a quarter of the emirate’s transportation to autonomous mode by 2030. This target is expected to improve productivity by 13% and reduce transportation costs by 44%, generating savings in the region of US$245 million per year.

What’s more, pollution will be reduced by 12%, saving another US$400 million per year, while generating US$4.9 billion in annual economic returns. The government is also focusing policies and incentives towards growing the electric vehicle (EV) market, supported by private companies including Tesla, Hyundai, Nissan, and Volkswagen. Targeting 42,000 electric cars on the roads by 2030, the city is investing millions in infrastructure and making EV usage more attractive through free public parking and charging, toll fee exemption and discounts on car registration.

Highlighting the UAE’s growing global profile as an autonomous transportation hub, the Emirates ranked among the top 10 countries for future readiness in KPMG’s 2020 Global Autonomous Vehicles Readiness Index. Dubai’s RTA is also testing autonomous air taxis in partnership with Germany’s Volocopter. When operational, the taxis will be able to seat up to two people and fly for a maximum of 30 minutes with a top speed of 100km/h. It is estimated the technology could increase productivity by 13% and reduce road traffic accidents by 12%.

SPACE TRAVEL

The idea of space tourism is being turned into a reality by Virgin Galactic, the world’s first commercial spaceline, with a mission to “connect people across the globe to the love, wonder an awe created by space travel”. On February 16, 2022, the company opened ticket sales to the general public, providing the opportunity to purchase one of the initial spaceflight reservations and secure membership in the unique community of Future Astronauts.

“At Virgin Galactic, we believe that space is transformational,” says Virgin Galactic CEO Michael Colglazier. “We plan to have our first 1,000 customers on board at the start of commercial service later this year, providing an incredibly strong foundation as we begin regular operations and scale our fleet.”

The spaceflight will launch from Spaceport America in New Mexico. Starting with several days of spaceflight preparedness activities, future astronauts will stay with their guests at forthcoming custom accommodations. Guests will enjoy bespoke itineraries and world-class amenities during astronaut-specific training programmes. During spaceflight, astronauts will experience a 90-minute journey including a signature air launch and Mach-3 boost to space.

The spaceship gracefully flips while astronauts enjoy several minutes of out-of-seat weightlessness and breath-taking views of Earth from the 17 windows. “Upon return from this transformational experience, astronauts will begin a meaningful journey to create positive impact with the perspective that can only come from seeing our beautiful planet from space,” says Virgin Galactic. Spaceflight reservations are priced $450,000.

(Sources: ATAG, Forbes, Airbus, Boeing, Jetex, NEOM, Dubai Economy and Tourism)

Dubai has ambitions to go autonomous by 2030

The view from space on Virgin Galactic’s first spaceflight

Dubai Economy & Tourism

A new flexi future for hotels

Tomorrow’s hotels must be multi-purpose venues where guests and residents alike can work, rest and play

The role of hotels has fundamentally changed. It was once cut and dried – they provided a bed for the night – or a place to holiday for a week or two – with various extras and luxuries thrown in, depending on star rating. Design wise, the template (sorry architects) was rooms and suites, lobby, F&B outlets, meeting rooms, perhaps a spa and a gym, and outdoor space for a pool. Every space was segregated with a defined use, in a very one-dimensional way that shunted guests around from place to place in a non-experiential kind of way. What’s more, it left dead space that could have been put to better use to maximise returns.

This might sound like a rudimentary analysis, but when we look at the hotels of today – and the future – they have transitioned beyond recognition into multi-purpose hubs.

Pre-pandemic, we saw the rise of socalled lifestyle hotels, but in 2022, we can no longer use this definition, because every property has been forced to quickly evolve to meet the new and fast-shifting lifestyle needs of guests.

Biophilic design elements are being incorporated into hotel and resort spaces

HARD-WORKING SPACES

In 2020 and 2021 our homes took on the roles of offices, gyms, leisure spaces and this trend has migrated to hotel interiors. The work-from-home and work-fromhotel movement is here to stay, and properties need to factor in new hard-working spaces, from more flexible guest rooms that are as comfortable to work in as they are to rest in, designed so that during video conference calls the bed is out of shot, to innovative co-working spaces.

Multifunctional spaces are also closely linked to the importance of sustainability in hotel design, according to a hotel design trends for 2022 analysis by OCCA, a commercial interior design firm for the hospitality sector.

It cites The Valo Hotel in Helsinki, Finland, as a prime example. Shortlisted in the Dezeen Sustainability Awards 2021, Valo is a truly dual-purpose building, combining a hotel and an office into one space.

Not only does this allow guests a premium working environment during their stay, but it avoids the wasted energy associated with office buildings and hotels being empty or only partially occupied for large portions of the day.

It ticks all the right boxes for today’s travellers by creating functional and flexible lifestyle-driven spaces, built in ways aligned to their own beliefs around tackling climate change.

Valo Hotel, Helsinki

CONSCIOUS STAYS

The desire to travel – and stay – sustainably has never been so strong, according to Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report with 81% of those surveyed stating that they want to stay in sustainable accommodation in 2022. This marks a notable increase from 62% in 2016 and 74% in 2020.

RX Global, organiser of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has also identified a new breed of eco-conscious traveller based on feedback from delegates attending its 2021 in-person and virtual seminars on responsible tourism –one that actively looks for ethical travel brands to follow and wants to see tangible evidence of that brand’s sustainable strategy.

According to market data on Statista, 81% of 29,349 adults surveyed last year across 30 countries confirmed they would like to stay in a sustainable resort, at least once in the 12 months ahead, while Google found the search term “green hotel,” had increased fourfold over the past 18 months in terms of volume.

To give eco-tourists a helping hand, Google will now accredit hotels with a green ecoemblem next to their name during a routine search for sustainable property options.

It will also add details of the property’s specific sustainability policy and procedures and activities.

To qualify, hotels must have their sustainability achievements audited by a credible third party.

With pressure mounting on hotels to be part of the solution to climate change, rather than a contributor, the trend towards more environmentally conscious design elements such as upcycled and restored furnishings, recycled materials and locally sourced pieces that have a lower carbon footprint, will continue to accelerate.

One hotel brand already doing it well is Habitas AlUla in Saudi Arabia, where guests “live sustainably from check-in to check-out” with hotel construction, programming and initiatives “guided by nature”.

Designed to blend into its surroundings, the entire resort has been constructed from ethically sourced organic materials using sustainable construction methods and a modular build process.

This low-impact design aesthetic creates “a space for guests to meaningfully experience this part of Saudi Arabia for themselves”.

STAYING WELL

With the global wellness industry now estimated to be worth some US$1.5 trillion, according to research by Mckinsey & Company, hotels and resorts are well positioned to take a large piece of the pie.

Consumers now view wellness across six dimensions – health, fitness, nutrition, appearance, sleep and mindfulness, all of which the hospitality industry can tackle with creative spaces, products and services.

We have already seen hotels join forces with fitness companies and coaches, as well as mindfulness apps, to provide guests with more options to train their body and mind, with Mark Arnall, the long-time personal trainer and sports therapist of F1 World Champion Kimi Räikkönen, the latest guru to offer a hotel fitness concept.

He has teamed up with Hotel Zermama in Zermatt, Switzerland to rollout the TRAVEL F1T programme, designed to help travellers stay fit and healthy while travelling by incorporating exercise, nutrition, recovery, jetlag management, injury prevention and immune system support.

In the future, wellness initiatives such as

Habitas AlUla

these will become a core component of hotels and delivered across all departments, rather than confined to guest rooms, spas and gyms, according to The future of wellness in hospitality: Beyond the Spa report by global commercial real estate services firm Avison Young. “Public spaces [in hotels] will continue to become multi-functional areas with blurred living/eating/relaxing/working areas,” it says. Examples include guestrooms that enable resting and exercise; bathrooms influenced by spas; meetings and events rooted in wellness, offering focus-boosting menus and social activities that promote team building and productivity; and large spaces enabling guests to choose social or quiet environments to relax or work.

Hotel spas must also be future-proofed says the report, with a focus on sensory experiences, reconnecting and spa socialising, food health, prevention plans, blended stay/ work/play areas, long-term care routines and zero-impact lifestyles.

COMMUNITY HUBS, INSIDE AND OUT

Multi-functional spaces are already being implemented successfully, most commonly in hotel lobbies, as properties transform into community hubs where all are welcome. In Dubai, the recently opened 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central has nailed this concept, with an expansive lobby encompassing a co-working space, reception and concierge, retail booth, a central fountain-style bookshelf that doubles up as a giant seating area, adjacent to swinging chairs, and a café lounge that seamlessly blends with a huge outdoor courtyard for socialising, working, dining, or whatever you wish.

The pandemic has led to outdoor hospitality spaces like these becoming premium real estate as socialising al fresco is the preferred option. The challenge for hotels, particularly those in locations with extreme weather, is to create luxurious, comfortable and functional outdoor spaces that can be used all-year round. “From designer heaters and retractable rain covers to rustic fire pits and hygge-inspired faux fur blankets, many venues have designed weatherproof outdoor spaces that are as desirable in the depths of winter as in the height of summer,” says Kate Mooney, OCCA’s founder and design director.

“Outdoor spaces are now being given the same level of design attention as interiors with lighting schemes, artwork and stunning furnishings to make them feel inviting and opulent as well as safe. Some hotels are even creating outdoor workstations at the pool or

beach outdoor to ensure that everyone’s needs are catered to.”

Interestingly, while interior elements are being brought outdoors, many hotels are also bringing the outside in.

“Biophilic design elements and interiors with raw, organic roots are serving as an antidote to too much time spent indoors and tap into the mental wellbeing benefits of being in nature,” adds Mooney.

Many Singapore hotels are tapping into biophilic design with the aim of promoting creativity, wellness and sustainability. Vines and plants climb the exterior of the Oasia Hotel Downtown, while The PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering in Chinatown boasts more than 15,000 sqm of lush gardens and verdant terraces and hosts more trees

than the Hong Lim Park across the street. Meanwhile, WOW architects, in partnership with Banyan Tree Holdings Limited, is designing treehouses in the shapes of seeds.

Perched above the canopy, 338 rooms will offer stunning rain forest vistas.

WHAT GUESTS REALLY WANT

Hotels of the near future will need to become flexible multi-purpose venues where guests and residents alike can work, rest, play, shop, workout, and more.

Wellness and sustainability principles will guide every component of these community and lifestyle hubs, which really will become a place to call home.

Top: Hotel Dubai One Central; Above: PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering

Patrick Bingham Hall

Travel's new future

Travelling ‘better’ takes priority

Industry figureheads highlight sector-defining trends

“As we look forward to a brighter tomorrow, we need to be ready to cater to global travellers who have made a paradigm shift in the way they choose their destination, and the decisions they make while travelling. We have seen the emerging trend of conscious travel with holidaymakers increasingly being driven by the desire to seek sustainable and safe destinations, connect more with their destination by immersing themselves in authentic cultural experiences and undertaking responsible tourism activities and ultimately to ‘travel better’. Sustainability, therefore, will become an even more important factor defining the future of global travel and tourism.”

Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM)

Partnerships spur growth

“Saudi is making a bold play on tourism for the future. Our ambition is for the long term, which is why we are investing more than any other country globally to create world-class tourism assets, attractions and events. We are driven by a commitment to partnerships and private sector enablement as we pursue accelerated growth. No DMO can succeed in isolation. We are building partnerships founded on shared values, mutual benefit and a common vision for the future of our sector. If you’re in tourism, you need to be in Saudi.”

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Board Member, Saudi Tourism Authority (STA)

A new era of discovery and responsibility

“Unique experiences, luxury, culture and authenticity are trends I believe will shape the future of the industry globally. More importantly, as travellers seek new experiences and discoveries, they are increasingly putting more thought into their environmental footprint. Therefore, the industry should be prepared for rising demand for conscious, responsible, and eco-friendly tourism. Finally, an increasing influx of new technologies like IoT, augmented reality, recognition technology, customer experience 2.0, will drive us all into a new era.”

Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq)

Green cruising for future generations

“Sustainable and responsible tourism is becoming increasingly important worldwide as more corporations and governments understand the role that we all have to play in preserving our resources and protecting the planet for our current and future generations. Sustainability is at the heart of Cruise Saudi’s strategy and operation. We strive to become future leaders in green cruising and destinations by adapting advanced technologies across all fields including ports, vessels, land, and sea. We are building an entirely new industry, so it is our duty to oversee the responsible development of all infrastructure, cruise terminals and our offering – and transform Saudi Arabia's coastline into a sustainable tourism destination.”

Lars Clasen, CEO, Cruise Saudi

Watch out for the digital nomads

“We’ve seen our guests’ and members’ needs evolve as they live side by side with the virus and a ‘new traveller’ has emerged. We recently read that seven in 10 consumers believe their travel behaviours have changed permanently, and I really think that’s true. If I look at how I travel now, instead of taking many short trips, I’m now making longer trips and combining meetings and events. We’re seeing this with many of our customers. Trends that are here to stay following the pandemic are ‘bleisure’ – a 2021 study of global business travellers found 89% wanted to add a private holiday onto their business trips in the next 12 months. At the same time, ‘digital nomads’ are on the rise. These are people who have the flexibility to take to the road and work from anywhere. While a niche today, market analysis suggests it’s fast growing and will be a powerful segment in the future.”

Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Marriott International

Travellers look for bucket-list ticks

“One trend I believe will drive the future traveller is the desire to discover new far-flung destinations; places that can offer something truly unique, such as historical, cultural, or natural treasures as holidaymakers seek inspiring experiences on their bucket list. At MSC Cruises we constantly seek out remarkable, unexplored destinations to enrich our cruise ship itineraries, complementing the more popular and well-known destinations. We have recently done this in the Middle East, having become the first major cruise line to offer travellers the opportunity to experience the unspoiled beauty of Saudi Arabia by cruise.”

Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises

Futuristic concepts must be embraced

“2022 marks a new chapter for the region’s travel and tourism sector as we build on our learnings from previous years. Across the industry, there have been significant shifts prompted by the need for a deeper refinement of guest experiences – an approach that promises growth and transformation. Seismic movements in an everchanging industry are key factors that businesses must acknowledge if they are to grow and evolve, and that is why it is crucial to stay ahead. While championing sustainability at every stage and incorporating customer feedback should be at the heart of every business’ vision, it is also important to explore paradigm shifts through rich futuristic concepts such as the metaverse, which holds the potential to create the most immersive experiences ever seen in the travel and tourism industry.”

Mohamed Al Zaabi, CEO, Miral

Destinations satisfy appetite for the new

“The latest generation of tourists is educated, more skilled, savvier, and sharper than ever before, and is on the hunt for authentic experiences that cannot be found anywhere else. These travellers want to be pioneers, visiting places that offer things that were not possible before. It is now more important than ever that our industry caters to these worldly, curious travellers by curating destinations that will satiate their appetite for the new.”

Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO, Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA)

Business travel becomes more conscious

“Environmentally, sustainable travel continues to gain greater attention as more corporates make commitments to zero carbon emissions. As business travel has resumed, we have witnessed an overall shift in focus for our customers to a greater emphasis on sustainable travel, employee wellbeing, and duty of care – all of which has, and will continue to be, a priority for us at dnata Travel Group.”

Savio Vaz, Vice President –Government & Corporate Travel, dnata Travel Group

Digital nomad numbers are on the rise

Supersized holidays take off

“Today’s travellers, influenced by the constraints of the last two years, are booking supersized holidays to their bucket-list destinations, or opting for multi-stays or daycations, discovering close-to-home experiences, while demanding more flexible and convenient ways to travel. At the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) we are seeing a surge in bookings for villas and suites, dominated by family travel, indicating that people are keen to make up for time lost with friends and family and missed events during the pandemic. Additionally, the blending of work-from-anywhere with leisure travel is here to stay, especially with hybrid working environments becoming the norm. This is all part of people seeking a better and healthier work-life balance, which is going to see the high-frequency business road warrior becoming rarer, and less sought-after than the high-spending, premium leisure travellers who will drive the industry's revenue growth in the coming years.”

Chris Hartley, CEO, Global Hotel Alliance

Expect more ‘smart’ hotels

“We see immense opportunity for sustainable and wellness tourism in the region, particularly in new developments such as the Red Sea Project in Saudi Arabia, which is centred on both, and our Six Senses brand fits particularly well in this respect. Other IHG brands such as InterContinental and Hotel Indigo that operate in the luxury and lifestyle category are also ideal for this segment. Another hospitality development trend that we are noticing is to build smarter, technology enabled hotels that will enhance guest experiences. This could include more contactless services, use of virtual reality, chatbots, among other advanced features and facilities.”

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director MEA & South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts

The new generation wants to regenerate destinations

“Regenerative travel will guide the future of tourism. How we connect with nature is becoming crucial for our wellbeing. We want to travel responsibly. We are more selective when choosing where we stay. It is no longer enough for hotels to minimise their negative impact on the environment. Guests demand that hotels show a positive impact on nature, wildlife and local communities. This will impact design, construction methods, and operating standards. Regenerative travel is also linked to transformative experiences: planting trees, growing mangroves, protecting animals, working with local farmers, supporting communities. These are all examples of what the industry should focus on to attract the new generation of travellers.”

Chris Nader, Co-Founder & CEO, ENVI Lodges

Collaboration will fast-track recovery

“As consumer habits are ever-changing, companies that adjust to cater to this level of flexibility will lead recovery. Sustainable travel will continue to be a huge focus moving forward. Additionally, with remote working becoming more widespread, there are consumers looking for destinations to work and travel simultaneously and I believe this segment will continue to grow in the near future. We’ve also witnessed a greater sense of community develop among the hospitality industry. This environment of strong support and collaboration has been key to accelerating recovery and growth, and we hope can be maintained moving forward.”

Guy Hutchinson, President & CEO, Rotana

Private branded residences meet modern needs

“In recent years demand for private branded residences has grown enormously and luxury hotel brands are looking for new destinations to add to their existing portfolios. What often sets branded residences apart is the services available, as well as the personalised nature of the delivery of these services. They may comprise a concierge, security, grounds keeping and the use of hotel amenities, if affiliated to one, or in some cases, dedicated amenities ranging from housekeeping to private dining to pet services. This helps residents to balance the hectic nature of modern life and to keep a healthy balance between work, rest and play.”

Amanda Elder, Chief Commercial Officer and Member of the

Board, Kempinski Hotels

Management

The next generation wants to regenerate destinations

A bright future awaits travel

“The travel and tourism industry in the Middle East is exceptionally resilient, having bounced back with aplomb after the pandemic, not to mention, regional and international conflicts. There is so much to look forward to, with the completion of the multi-billiondollar tourism projects in Saudi, the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, consolidation of the Abraham Accords and of course, the economic legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai. Over the last two years, health and safety issues have dominated the industry landscape. They remain very much at the forefront of business operations and will be a top priority for TIME Hotels. Technology and the environment will also continue to dictate travel and tourism strategy in 2022 and beyond.”

Mohamed Awadalla, CEO, TIME Hotels

The great outdoors comes into its own

“At Colliers, we believe strongly that four key trends of Eco, Wellness, Agri and Adventure tourism or ‘EWAA tourism’, will define the future of travel and tourism over the next decade or so. This sector has seen a huge growth over the past few years and gained even greater traction with the focus on the outdoors during the pandemic. As we move through this postpandemic era, responsible tourism and sustainability remain pillars for the new generation of travellers, with EWAA-based concepts expected to appeal most to these types of tourists.”

Christopher Lund, Executive Director – Head of Hotels, MENA region, Colliers

Conscious travel continues to rule

“Conscious travel is currently the main trend, which is why Barceló Hotel Group is committed to sustainable tourism within our Barceló Responsible strategy, contributing to the development of the local economy and the protection of the environment by being economically sustainable and ethically responsible. This trend calls for accommodation that provides an experience beyond the conventional, either for its location or its range of activities, which is integrated into the surrounding environment in a special way. It seeks to enjoy the trip; to get to know a place, its food or culture and discover new things.”

Raúl González, Chief Executive Officer EMEA, Barceló Hotel Group

Expect a multi-generational travel boom in 2022

“Recent years have helped us to remember that travel is a wonderful activity that we should experience to the full whenever we can. That’s why we predict a greater desire from guests to travel with extended family members to spend quality time together and reconnect by making longlasting, shared memories. In fact, research we conducted last year showed that people want to make up for lost time by adventuring with as many of their loved ones as possible – fuelling a rise in multi-generational travel. Another trend top of mind for our guests and bookers is sustainability. This is a key differentiator to the future of the travel industry.”

Jochem-Jan Sleiffer, President, Middle East, Africa & Turkey, Hilton

The great outdoors is a traveller magnet

Shared electric mobility is the way forward

“The travel and tourism industry has undergone significant and rapid change in recent years, particularly since the pandemic. All of us want cleaner, less-congested cities where everyone can move freely – and the key to getting there is to replace private cars with better access to shared, electric mobility built around public transport: an integrated system of various modes of transport. People should be able to open their app anywhere in the world – know where to pick up their scooter, what time they need to reach the metro to get on the train and have their car waiting on the other side to get them to their destination. When you put all these modes together, you serve people better and we are really excited about how technology can help to further that movement and play a role in making this change happen.”

Saad Pall, General Manager MENA and Pakistan, Uber

The great re-locate trend continues

“Eco-conscious travel will continue to gain momentum as consumers become more attuned to the environmental impact of their travel decisions. Guests now expect to see tangible proof points of a hotel’s commitment to sustainability including certifications and sustainability in action during their stay. Long-stay and ‘bleisure’ and remote work while travelling will continue to remain a trend as flexible work conditions permit to combine both personal and professional travel experiences. Hyatt’s ‘Great Relocate’ package allows guests to tastefully combine both passions while enjoying a plethora of benefits such as housekeeping, laundry, discounts on food and beverage, gym and meeting room access. The Middle East will continue to be an important source market for luxury travel, with events such Expo 2020 Dubai and the upcoming World Cup in Qatar propelling the industry further.”

Fathi Khogaly, Area Vice President Dubai for Hyatt Hotels

Reimagining the customer experience is key

“The tourism sector in the region continues to grow as governments ease restrictions and lead the global recovery. The outlook for this year is extremely positive with a robust pipeline of hotels scheduled to open, with a special focus on the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The hospitality industry is constantly evolving, and it is essential to respond to consumers' changing behaviours. Organisations will need to reimagine the customer experience, and re-engage with customers to build and maintain their trust. In 2022, I believe there will be a greater focus on sustainability than ever before as the world looks into a greener future.”

Tim Cordon, Senior Area Vice President, Middle East & Africa, Radisson

Saudi’s domestic tourism to thrive

“People are now seeking truly meaningful experiences when they travel. They want real cultural immersion in their destinations: to live like a local, to connect with the people, and to return home with memories they can cherish. But that is not to say the demand for domestic tourism has in any way diminished. Saudis have only just begun to discover the incredible entertainment and tourist attractions on their own doorstep, with the kingdom’s flourishing events scene drawing people from across the country. Travel is back and the industry has an exciting future ahead.”

Majed Alnefaie, CEO, Seera Group

Business as usual –for some

“Business travel trends are highly dependent on the COVID-19 situation at present. While the UAE is ahead with its booster vaccination campaign, the speed of a return to ‘business as usual’ varies dramatically due to policy decisions, economic performance, and consumer behaviour.”

Erik Magnuson, VP Product Management, Mobility & Payments, CWT

Shared electric mobility is the way forward

Demand for flexible living spaces surges

“As international borders continue to open, we are witnessing accelerated growth from pent-up demand among international guests looking to travel and explore more. Travellers are looking for spaces that can adapt to the work-from-home trend, while allowing them to fit into a new city. Serviced apartments play a huge role in meeting these needs by turning vacant spaces into revenue-generating streams. They offer long-stay travellers the flexibility and practicality of comprehensive living, while also giving them the care and hospitality with which they are familiar.”

Vincent Miccolis, Managing Director for the Middle East, Africa, Turkey and India, The Ascott Limited

Urban Air Mobility is the future

“Volocopter is committed to providing sustainable and affordable electric air taxi services in megacities across the globe. We aspire to improve the quality of life for the people living in and visiting these cities by offering a new form of transportation that is urban air mobility (UAM). UAM can provide a faster mode of transportation, with breathtaking city views while soaring above cities as an added incentive. For travellers and tourists alike, UAM offers an ideal solution for people who want to spend more time at their destinations, rather than investing so much of it in simply getting there.”

Florian Reuter, CEO Volocopter

Travellers are revising how they travel

“The pandemic has allowed travellers time to reflect and reconsider their priorities, leading many open to a slower pace of travel, with freedom and flexibility. They are also more open to unique offerings from unexpected and off-the-beaten track destinations. Wellness tourism will grow further as travellers want to boost their mood and health after a period of ‘stagnation’. Sustainability will continue to be a high priority, with some travellers considering self-rationing their trips, while others will become more conscious of their impact through carbon tracking tools. Linked to this, travellers will want to give back to local communities, and protect the environments they visit.”

Tricia Warwick MCIM, Director, Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa & China, VisitBritain

Hotel management models to evolve

“There are many reasons to be more optimistic in 2022. The industry has proven to be incredibly resilient and agile, and I believe both factors will remain key to success for the sector and hotel management companies like ours. Throughout the pandemic, our pipeline continued to grow, which indicates strong demand for the third-party hotel management model, especially franchising. I foresee this trend accelerating in the next few years in the Middle East and Africa.”

Bani Haddad, Founder and Managing Director, Aleph Hospitality

Urban Air Mobility is the future

Pandemic proves catalyst for positive change

“While many private aviation companies, including VistaJet, were well-insulated from the pandemic, we operate within an ecosystem that was significantly impacted. However, the challenges faced provided a dramatic catalyst for change, resulting in a positive path forward for the luxury travel sector. A key trend to emerge has been the growth in collaboration between industry partners, as it's only by working together that we can truly deliver a superior experience and ensure our clients’ evolving needs are being looked after. We're also thrilled to see a continued emphasis on sustainability as a key driver in the decision-making process, with 85% of VistaJet members having opted in to compensate for their fuel use-related emissions by investing in certified carbon credits around the world. The Middle East continues to lead as a market for private aviation, with the UAE consistently one of our top destinations and Saudi Arabia showing robust growth. We are seeing an increase in domestic and intra-regional demand GCC, as well as long-distance to and from the US, followed by Europe.”

Matteo Atti, Group Executive Vice President of Marketing, VistaJet

Business and leisure become one

“There are several trends coming to the fore. There is growing demand for more personalised travel experiences, while millions of tourists are now making responsible travel choices. At the same time, business trips and MICE travel now need to incorporate leisure elements. Technology is becoming more crucial to our industry, aiding operations, while enhancing the traveller experience.”

Phillip J. Jones, Chief Destination Marketing and Management Officer, The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU)

A strong desire to explore the world again

“All signs point towards a very bright future for international travel and tourism. The easing of travel restrictions across the globe and growing confidence among travellers is fuelling a strong resurgence in guest numbers. Our guests share a strong desire to explore the world again and indulge in bucket-list travel, and I believe their passion for new places and experiences will only grow. We look forward to continuing to deliver our renowned service and personalised experiences to discerning travellers, wherever their journeys may take them.”

Simon Casson, President, Hotel Operations, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Four Seasons

Revenge travel continues to surge

“Countries open to leisure travellers are witnessing a surge in demand; call it revenge travel or just the result of us all sitting at home during the pandemic and realising there is world out there we have yet to explore. Tourists still seem to be gravitating to low-density destinations rather than big cities. However, cities like Dubai have attracted substantial tourism based on their COVIDsafe protocols. This proves a main driver for attracting tourism this year is health and safety in the coming year. Staycations remain popular and with that in mind, destinations and hoteliers should not neglect the domestic market.”

Seema Pande, Co-Founder at Elev8 Representation & Consulting

Four Seasons in Mexico: bucket list travel is back

DISCOVER THE NEW LUXURY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD

It’s a new season on the legendary Sunset Strip with several new luxury hotels and newly re-opened bars, clubs, and restaurants. Don’t miss the cutting-edge design and shopping in the Design District, and the nightlife on Santa Monica Boulevard.

The place where time stands still

It’s Montreux on the Swiss Riviera, home to uber-luxurious spa destination, Clinique La Prairie, where bespoke programmes help guests to live their best life – for longer – reveals CEO Simone Gibertoni

Q: What makes Clinique La Prairie different to other dedicated health and wellness destinations?

Clinique La Prairie, an award-winning spa clinic, has been a pioneer in longevity since 1931.

Through our programmes and holistic approach to health and wellness, we slow time, capture energy, and preserve youth.

What makes us unique is our expertise and methods to help guests live a fuller, healthier and longer life, based on evidence-based medicine and wellness.

Our week-long programmes balance science, nature and technology to help guests feel their absolute best and live better.

The two flagship programmes – Revitalisation and Master Detox

– are the essence of this philosophy. They use the power of genetic, cellular and nutritional science to offer the best stay and results. We offer the most advanced longevity and wellness programmes in absolute luxury.

Our exclusive holistic approach combines leading preventative medicine and wellbeing with bespoke lifestyle and nutrition plans, led by 50 medical specialists and a team of holistic experts.

Guests can expect the most complete regenerating and detox experiences, exceptional diagnostics, innovative sciences and technologies, in the highly stimulating environment of the Swiss Riviera, surrounded by the very best of nature.

Another strength of Clinique La Prairie is that all that guests need to look and feel radiant on site is available. They can add on aesthetics medicine, spa, specific medical checks, and more.

We believe our clients are unique and their health partner should be too. In an ever-faster world, Clinique La Prairie can be their sanctuary, and when they leave, they step into a different future.

Q: How do you inspire guests to live a healthier, longer and better life and what is your success rate?

Our success rate is high: more than 60% of guests return time and again for a programme in Montreux.

Clinique La Prairie, Montreux, Switzerland

Simone Gibertoni

Our main goal is to offer them a stay utilising our scientific expertise and knowledge. From bespoke treatments to one-to-one sessions with our nutritionists, our guests have the most personalised experience, during and after their stay, as the programmes include follow ups.

One key aspect is giving very specific insights for a better lifestyle, and his is why we offer genetics and epigenetics screenings.

Another key aspect is nutrition. Its role in wellbeing and longevity is crucial, with the gut considered to be our second brain. Our team of nutritionists and doctors works with guests on how food influences and improves genetic expression.

We do the same for every aspect of the health and lifestyle, from how to keep

moving to how to integrate relaxation and stress management into life. To help our guests stick to their healthy routine after their stay, we have also introduced a range of pioneering supplements, called Holistic Health, including the core longevity product, Age-Defy.

These supplements are the product of years of research and provide true benefit to support the wellbeing of people who are living busy lives, offering a bespoke routine they can trust.

Q: How are you evolving to meet the current lifestyle and wellbeing demands of your clients, particularly in a pandemic-driven world?

The pandemic has made us all prioritise health. Our recent research has shown that 79% of people feel that their own health has been affected in some way by COVID-19. Perhaps unsurprisingly, as a result of the pandemic, 92% of people are now consciously taking better care of their health. With health front and centre, there is also growing consumer demand for more personalised, meaningful and all-encompassing preventive wellbeing programmes, directly linking body and mind health.

As a result, we have seen that the boundaries of medicine and science have been pushed more than ever before.

Over the two last years we have enhanced

our signature Revitalisation and Master Detox programmes using the power of nutrigenomic science, integrating more sophisticated health assessments (such as epigenetics testing, for example), more wellbeing technologies, and an even more bespoke approach.

Q: What type of clients does Clinique La Prairie suit and why?

Our clinic suits international guests who choose the best.

Our holistic and longevity approach – spanning science, medicine, nutrition, movement, wellbeing – is one that fits demanding clients from across the world.

Q: What are the most popular programmes and why?

Our most popular and flagship programme is the seven-day Revitalisation, based on our pioneering cellular approach.

The week includes the best anti-aging treatments to regenerate and rejuvenate the body and spirit, strengthen the immune system and enhance physical and mental performance. The most complete version of it, called Revitalisation Premium, is the most comprehensive longevity programme we offer.

It is based on the Revitalisation programme’s powerful foundations, targeting cell regeneration and immune defences, and enhances it with a supertargeted medical approach to deeply regenerate the body’s seven key systems and functions: brain, heart, circadian rhythm, skin, metabolism, immunity, and microbiota. Another successful programme is the Master Detox.

This seven-day programme focuses on cleansing toxins from the body, through detox diet, detox wellness treatments (far-infratherapy, wraps and more) and a proprietary CLP method launched by our science team, the CLP Genomic Detox, working on the interactions between genes and nutrients to purify the body.

Q: Do you offer any packages for Middle East clients?

All of our programmes are suited to Middle East clientele. From experience, we know this market also appreciates the ‘Check-up Wellness’ stay, as well as the aesthetics protocol called ‘Beauty Stems Cell’ – a four-day programme including a light aesthetic surgery to extract stem cells from the abdomen and reinject them into the face for a rejuvenating effect.

Above: Clients are surrounded by “the very best of nature”

Left: Tailored fitness coaching is available

Programmes are bespoke

IN A WORLD OF WONDERS... THERE IS ONLY ONE

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