Breaking Travel News - Arabian Travel Market 2017 - Special Edition

ARABIA N TRAVE L M ARKE T

SPECIAL EDITION

2017

WELLNESS TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET 2017

NEWS

A Wellness Symposium, which will throw the spotlight on the $8.3 billion industry in the Middle East/North Africa, will be launched at Arabian Travel Market 2017, which begins today.

tourism markets – as well as trends in outbound wellness tourism from the Middle East.

A partnership between the World Travel Market portfolio of events and the Global Wellness Institute, the symposium has been organised as part of a schedule of events in ATM’s Wellness Lounge.

“Wellness travel is not only growing twice as fast as tourism overall, it’s evolving in bold new directions, both globally and across the Middle East. Our on-going mission will be to bring together the top experts and

It will also analyse MENA’s thriving domestic (four million trips) and inbound (4.5 million trips) wellness

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latest research and trends in this travel space to ATM and WTM’s tens of thousands of attendees,” said Susie Ellis, chairman, GWI. The UAE leads the Middle Eastern wellness tourism market. With an average of 1.7 million wellness trips generating $2.7 billion annually, it accounts for 14 per cent of the MENA spa mar-

We l l n e s s t a k e s c e n t r e s t a g e a t A r a b i a n T r a v e l M a r k e t 2 0 1 7

ket, according to research from Colliers Experiential Travel Series.

The UAE is followed by Morocco (1.66 million trips), Tunisia (0.76 million trips) and Jordan (0.62 million trips). However, the growth in wellness tourism in MENA compared with overall tourism over the past five years is truly remarkable.

same period in 2015 and 25 new hotel spas are expected to open this year, making a total of over 200 spas.

Having already identified the demand for wellness, ATM launched a dedicated Wellness and Spa Lounge in 2016, connecting Middle East wellness and spa buyers with international suppliers.

Indeed, the Dubai hotel spa market experienced a nine per cent increase in the average number of treatments sold per day in the first half of 2016 compared to the

Hotel, Lugano; L’ Albereta, Lake Iseo, Brescia; Radisson Blu 1835 Hotel & Thalassa, Cannes and the Velaa Private Island Maldives.

Exhibitors in this year’s Wellness and Spa Lounge include some of the most recognisable names in the industry from Italy, Switzerland France, Hungary, Canada, India and The Maldives, such as the Swiss Diamond

MORE INFORMATION Find out more about the when and where at Arabian Travel Market at www.arabiantravelmarket.wtm.com.

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NEWS

ALL THE LATEST FROM BREAKING TRAVEL NEWS… With so much to keep track of here at Arabian Travel Market it is easy to lose track. Fortunately Breaking Travel News is here to help, bringing you the latest headlines from the key players here at the largest travel show in the Middle East.

Time Hotels, the UAE-headquartered hospitality company and hotel operator, is set to announce plans to open ten new properties across the Middle East by quarter four of 2018.

The properties, which will be unveiled here ATM, will see the growth and launch of existing and new brands to key territories in the region, with the company set to extend its footprint to Ajman and Fujairah in the UAE, followed by Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

The new additions will join Time Hotels’ existing portfolio of seven properties between Dubai and Sharjah, taking the tally to 17 properties in the Middle East.

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Mohamed Awadalla, chief executive, Time Hotels, said: “Our current pipeline of hotels and residences meet the demands of multiple markets by offering a high-quality stay across our entire brand portfolio.

Since launching the Time Residence brand, we have seen demand for quality and value from the residential apartments, supported with facilities, which have added value across the region.”

He added: “Business travellers often look for a home-fromhome environment and leisure visitors, especially families, look for less formal hotel accommodation.”

In Dubai, three new hotels will open: Time Asma

All the latest from Breaking Travel News…

business opportunities from the region’s highest net worth travellers.”

Hotel, Time Express Hotel Al Jaddaf, and Time Royal Hotel & Spa, the firm’s first five-star UAE property, located in Healthcare City and designed to meet the needs of healthcare tourists.

TIME’s international openings in Doha, Riyadh, Jeddah and Qurayyat demonstrate the brand’s strength and popularity in markets outside of the UAE. The Time Beach Villas Resort, Jeddah, is a luxury contemporary property on the upper west side of the city, and Time’s first resort in the Kingdom. The resort will be joined by a 137-key four-star Yasma by Time Hotels and Resorts in Qurayyat, and Yasma by Time Express Hotels, Riyadh. In Qatar, Time Rako Hotel will open in the third quarter of 2017, in the Al Wakra area of Doha.

Awadalla continued: “It has been a busy year for TIME Hotels with a raft of properties announced with several of them due to come online within the next 12 months.

INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET ARABIA Expenditure on outbound travel from the Middle East is expected to reach $165.3 billion by 2025, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. Highlighting the buoyant outbound travel market, another report, issued by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, which

Research company Euromonitor International, argues the number of outbound trips from the UAE alone increased by five per cent to 3.5 million in 2015, with those travellers spending $19.35 billion, up ten per cent on 2014 - UAE residents travelled for longer and spent more in 2015.

Hall 1 of the Dubai World Trade Centre.

includes research teams from Frost & Sullivan and Insights Middle East, revealed a nine per cent growth in the number of outbound travellers from the region in 2015. The total estimated value of these outbound travellers from the GCC in 2014 was $64 billion.

ILTM Arabia will target high net-worth travellers from throughout the GCC and wider Middle East region, with buyers from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar expected to have a particularly strong presence.

The common denominator for both these reports is that the growth is being driven by international luxury travellers, which dovetails conveniently with the launch of International Luxury Travel Market Arabia, in collaboration with Arabian Travel Market. The new vertical luxury event takes place on the first two days of the four-day ATM, April 24th-25th, located in

Alison Gilmore, portfolio director for ILTM, said: “The Arabian outbound market is established and affluent, with a growing generation of individuals looking to spend their leisure time in the world’s finest places. This year we are inviting some of our closest partners to experience the new ILTM Arabia and explore the increasing

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Simon Press, senior exhibition director, Arabian Travel Market, commented: “Although low oil prices and sluggish economic growth at home might be stifling business confidence, the strength of the US dollar of which many of the GCC currencies are pegged to, means travelling overseas is invariably better value than it was in the past. The UAE for example witnessed a 19 per cent increase in outbound trips to Europe in 2013-2015.”

Only the most discerning luxury travel buyers from the region will be invited to the event including companies such as FSMagic and Quintessentially Travel.

Buyers will be fully hosted by ILTM and attend one-to-one, pre-scheduled appointments with up to 25 international luxury travel brands - a first for ATM and the proven successful ILTM portfolio format.

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NEWS

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ALL THE LATEST FROM BREAKING TRAVEL NEWS… The legacy of Expo 2020 is set to come under the spotlight on Arabian Travel Market’s Global Stage, returning for the 2017 show at Dubai World Trade Centre.

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MORE INFORMATION Find out more about the UNWTO summit and everything else taking place at Arabian Travel Market 2017 at www.arabiantravelmarket.wtm.com

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All the latest from Breaking Travel News…

Expo 2020, set to run between October 2020 and April 2021, will bring together more than 180 nations and is expected to host an international audience of 25 million visitors.

Simon Press, senior exhibition director, ATM, said: “Early forecasts are that 70 per cent of visitors will hail from outside of the UAE, representing the largest international visitor contribution in Expo history.

While the short-term goal is to deliver an exceptional six-month event, we have secured a top panel who will discuss how Dubai and the wider UAE can capitalise on its success and ensure there is a lasting legacy.”

Expo 2020 Dubai: The Legacy, chaired by UAE broadcaster Richard Dean, kicks off proceedings at 12.30 today.

Four speakers have been confirmed to participate in the high-level discussion, including: Marjan Faraidooni, vice president, legacy impact and development, Expo 2020; Issam Kazim, chief executive, Dubai Tourism; Anita Mehra, senior vice president, communications and reputation, Dubai Airports; and Deidre Wells, chief executive, UKinbound.

The session will assess the role of Expo 2020 in delivering the UAE government’s long-term vision for economic diversification. Pan-

ellists will discuss the core theme of sustainability as part of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation Year of Sustainable Tourism Development; the potential legacy of the mega project; and the future of the UAE as a knowledge economy, a leading global city, and tourism destination. since the UNWTO Ministers Forum was last held at ATM back in 2015. This year will reflect the pace and level of that development, uniting more than 20 ministers with industry leaders in the MENA region to consider methods of capitalising on tourism growth and building a sustainable ecosystem for the sector to unlock its potential within each country’s National Agenda.”

Drawing reference from their unique professional perspectives, the panel will also outline the true impact of Expo 2020 on the UAE and the wider GCC’s travel, tourism and aviation industries, considering the big picture infrastructure and investments planned for the next ten to 15 years.

UNWTO

He added: “Specific areas of focus will include GDP growth and economic diversification, innovation, entrepreneurship and productivity, job creation, human capital and infrastructure development, investment and export promotion.”

Visitors to the MENA region will total 195 million by 2030, growing at a rate higher than the world average, according to figures by the World Tourism Organisation.

The rapid development of the sector will form part of the discussion at the UNWTO & ATM ministerial forum at the Arabian Travel Market this year. The forum returns to the show repertoire this year, with a particular focus on the contribution of tourism to sustainable economic growth and diversification in the MENA region.

Tourism has become an undisputed vehicle of advancing the global economy, representing ten per cent of the world’s GDP, 30 per cent of services exports and one in every 11 jobs.

Press said: “Future job creation and entrepreneurship in the regional industry will be a first priority for the Forum.

The MENA-OECD Investment Programme estimates

Simon Press, senior exhibition director, ATM, said: “The Middle East has experienced huge changes

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that, in order to maintain current employment levels, between 25 million and 50 million new jobs will be required over the next decade, requiring an average annual growth rate of 5.5 per cent.”

The forum is one of a number of events in the yearlong programme of activities under the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017.

“Tourism has become a key economic activity across the region, particularly in the GCC countries, where it is establishing itself as a pillar and key driver of the modern ‘post–oil’ economies of those countries,” said UNWTO secretary general, Taleb Rifai. “In addition to generating foreign exchange earnings and creating jobs, tourism promotes trade and investment and significantly contributes to the development of other sectors of the economy - such as construction, manufacture, retail and financial services - and it also contributes significantly to the socio-economic integration of countries of the MENA region,” he concluded.

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INTERVIEW

Breaking Travel News Interview

HAITHAM MATTAR, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, RAS AL KHAIMAH TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has been quick to move the emirate out from the shadow of Dubai, emphasising a more natural, sustainable form of tourism.

Here Breaking Travel News talks with chief executive, Haitham Mattar, about his achievements to date and what the future might hold.

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H a i t h a m M a t t a r, c h i e f e x e c u t i v e , R a s A l K h a i m a h To u r i s m D e v e l o p m e n t A u t h o r i t y

Breaking Travel News: Ras Al Khaimah has dramatically increased visitor numbers in the last two years – how has this been achieved?

Furthermore, hotels recorded a ten per cent increase in occupancy throughout 2016, reporting an average of 71 per cent from January to December. Similar growth was posted across all key performance indicators, with RevPAR increasing by 5.5 per cent year-on-year 2015 and Room Revenue growing by 10 per cent.

Haitham Mattar: Thanks to on-going development of new tourism attractions and projects, Ras Al Khaimah has cemented its status as one of the world’s up and coming tourism destinations. Our emirate is now recognised as the most rapidly developing tourism sector in the UAE.

Going forward, we expect to exceed projected growth forecasts for the region, which the UNWTO estimates will be 4.4 per cent a year to 2030.

What we’ve done differently is engage the local community in order to extract our brand essence and values. This insight has allowed us to reveal the Arabian culture, heritage and authenticity that Ras Al Khaimah has to offer. Ultimately, it has led to the launch of our three-year tourism strategy, Destination 2019, which was also based on extensive consumer research in our international source markets.

BTN: We are here at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai for the 2017 show. How important is inter-emirate travel for Ras Al Khaimah?

HM: Ras Al Khaimah is located just a 45-minute drive north of Dubai International Airport, so inter-emirate travel is extremely important to us. In fact, 90 per cent of our visitors fly into Dubai. Transfers are easily arranged or visitors can rent a car for a retreat from the big city. To be associated with such a huge tourism destination as Dubai can only be a good thing because our destination offering complements Dubai perfectly.

In developing a portfolio of unique experiences that exemplify our brand, we have been able to showcase our unique heritage, rich history, spectacular landscapes and adventure activities in the most compelling and differentiated way. This helps us appeal to various audiences, both domestically and abroad. Additionally, we have promoted these unique experiences via co-marketing agreements with well-known media and tour operators as part of our winter and summer campaigns.

All of our development projects, such as our new Via Ferrata (Iron Path) have been supported by on-going PR and marketing activity. As a result, we’ve secured impressive coverage for the destination.

Full-time presence in our core target markets has allowed us to secure a strong future position for the tourism industry in Ras Al Khaimah. Over the last two years, we have secured strategic partnerships with airlines and tour operators, including Thomas Cook, TUI, Ctrip, Cox & Kings, FTI, Emirates, flydubai, Air Arabia, Qatar Airways and Air India Express.

In 2016, we reported an 11 per cent year-on-year growth of visitors to the emirate. Some 60 per cent of the total visitors were from overseas source markets, and the amount of international arrivals to Ras al Khaimah increased by 19 per cent year-on-year.

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INTERVIEW

Haitham Mattar Interview

and the Umm an-Nar tombs, with a history dating back to the 16th century.

However, Ras Al Khaimah has a unique identity that emphasises authentic Arabian nature and culture based experiences. The element of ‘accessible Arabia’ combined with stunning natural landscapes puts Ras Al Khaimah on the ‘must see’ list of so many visitors.

Ras Al Khaimah also embraces traditional activities, including camel races, traditional artwork, fishing, date farms and falconry. All of these activities are a key focus when it comes to preserving the emirate’s heritage for the long-term.

BTN: How do you differentiate Ras Al Khaimah from the more developed emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi? What advantages does this bring?

Our vision is to be a sustainable and competitive tourism destination. We will inspire people from around the world to visit Ras Al Khaimah. At the same time, we will grow tourism into the emirate’s leading socio-economic driver, enhancing the quality of life for residents and offering investors attractive and sustainable opportunities across multiple sectors.

HM: The diversity of the land in Ras Al Khaimah is one of its main points of differentiation from anywhere else in the world.

Our natural assets include 40 miles of golden beaches, the highest mountains in UAE, hot springs, rich flora and fauna and a unique terracotta desert.

BTN: You have also been a participant in the UNWTO International Year of World Tourism Development – what is going on there?

Only in Ras Al Khaimah can visitors enjoy so many adventures packed into just one break, whether it is an authentic Arabian desert safari, a beach escape or action-packed activities in the mountains.

HM: Tourism is intended to nurture cultural understanding and contribute to sustainable development. So when the United Nations 70th General Assembly designated 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, I knew that the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority had to get involved as a sponsor.

BTN: What is on offer in Ras Al Khaimah? You are famous for your cultural heritage, with a strong focus on sustainable tourism?

HM: With over 7,000 years of history, modern day Ras Al Khaimah places its cultural heritage at the core of its offering. The emirate boasts 18 historic fortifications and castles with must-see sights including Sheba’s Palace, Dhayah Fort

With this in mind, we launched our Destination 2019 strategy last year. The strategy emphasises social inclusiveness, cultural values, diversity and heritage while taking full account of Ras

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Al Khaimah’s economic, social and environmental impacts. We want the world to know that our emirate is safe and has something to offer everyone, regardless of race, gender, class, religion, nationality or any other label.

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has already achieved amazing accomplishments to date. In 2016, we hosted the annual UAE World Tourism Day Conference to highlight the important contribution of sustainable tourism to Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE; we signed the Accessible Tourism Code of Good Conduct to establish accessible tourism products and practices in the emirate; and we pledged to improve international tourism standards for segments such as families with small children and disabled or elderly travellers with reduced mobility.

Our vision is to create a compelling destination for visitors seeking authentic culture and nature based Arabian experiences. We will highlight the aspects that are unique to Ras Al Khaimah and present them to the world, ensuring the highest possible standards are delivered at each touch point of the customer journey.

Still, we still have a lot more to aspire to, and we owe to our people, our emirate and the world, the assurance that we will continue to drive sustainable tourism in Ras Al Khaimah. With this in mind, we are engaging with UNWTO experts to provide advice and support with our development plans going forward.

BTN: Ras Al Khaimah launched a new tourism strategy - Destination 2019 - last year. What can you tell us about that? What are your ambitions for the project?

HM: Destination Ras Al Khaimah 2019 is the first tourism strategy for Ras Al Khaimah. It sets out a clear roadmap for growing tourism in the years ahead. As the product of extensive research into consumer insights, the strategy will enable us to lead our industry and many stakeholders to deliver our common goals through 2019 and beyond.

MORE INFORMATION One of the world’s fastest growing tourism destinations, Ras Al Khaimah boasts a rich culture and long-standing history dating back 7,000 years. The emirate boasts an array of archaeological sites and natural vistas, from golden sand beaches, awe-inspiring terracotta dunes and a green belt of date palms to Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE.

Our strategy aims to bring one million tourists to Ras Al Khaimah by the end of 2018, focusing on three key tourist segments beyond the traditional leisure market seeking sun and sand. These segments are active adventurers, cultural explorers and luxury indulgence and wellness seekers. That is why our award-winning destination video is called ‘Beyond a Journey.

Learn more at www.rasalkhaimahtourism.com, or visit the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority on Stand ME3510 here at Arabian Travel Market 2017.

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INTERVIEW

Breaking Travel News Interview

MAITHA AL MAHROUQI, UNDERSECRETARY OF THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM, OMAN Tourism in Middle Eastern hotspot Oman has been growing rapidly in recent years, as flag-carrier Oman Air continues to grow, visitors become more aware of its diversified offering and the government invests in the hospitality infrastructure. Here Breaking Travel News chats with Maitha Al Mahrouqi, undersecretary at Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, to find out more.

Furthermore, we are in the process of developing a number of attractions aimed at increasing inter-GCC travel. An agreement has been signed for the construction of a new waterpark in Salalah; the project will include six types of water rides, a restaurant, a coffee shop, parking and green areas. Majarat Oman, the Sultanate’s biggest indoor theme park is being built in the premises of the Al Sawadi Beach Resort and is planning a soft opening in 2017.

by travellers come to Oman for a variety of purposes, and particularly during the summer months when Salalah offers visitors a cooler experience due to the annual monsoon. In June, July and August the area is a sea of green and people from the GCC countries do not have to travel overseas to escape the heat.

Breaking Travel News: We are here at Arabian Travel Market – the largest tourism trade show in the Middle East. How important is inter-GCC travel for Oman as a destination?

Maitha Al Mahrouqi: Inter-GCC travel is extremely important to us and ranks very high on our priority source market, whereby near-

Oman is in a position to capitalise on inter-GCC travel during events taking place in the region by offering tourists a seamless and hassle-free multi centre holiday. Over 2,000 new hotel rooms across the Sultanate came onto the hospitality market in 2016 alone and Oman will have the required capacity to welcome tourists from Dubai and Qatar on the occasion of the World Expo and World Cup.

The theme park is a futuristic, alien themed, indoor park, which offers a classic mix of all entertainment elements for the family. The Sultanate’s first snow park, part of the Palm Mall Muscat project, will be a new-generation Alpine winter themed real snow and ice amusement park and plans are underway to build

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a 1.5 million square metre theme park complex in Barka in northern Oman.

BTN: How about looking further afield. Do you feel global perceptions of Oman are accurate and what can be done to alter how people see the country?

Maitha Al Mahrouqi: In 2016, the top five visitor markets were Britain, Germany, USA, France and Canada. The tourists we currently receive are those discerning visitors looking for a truly authentic, quality, Arabian experience and we want to grow the perception that Oman is a destination that can offer this type of holiday as much as we possibly can.

The Tourism Strategy has identified digital marketing and media relations as the

M a i t h a A l M a h r o u q i , u n d e r s e c r e t a r y o f t h e M i n i s t r y o f To u r i s m , O m a n

most effective communication set of platforms to be used to promote Oman as a preferred and top-of-mind tourism destination. As such, efforts are being channelled in those particular vehicles of communication in order to boost tourism, both domestically and internationally.

New channels were created by the name of ‘Experience Oman’ on the main platforms of social media including: Facebook (multiple languages catered to our target markets), Twitter (English and Arabic), Instagram, Google+, Pinterest, and YouTube. These channels went live on September 1st, 2016. These channels are designed to represent brand Oman in which visitors can expect to receive frequent and reliable information to enrich their time in Oman.

They discuss tourism related content and constitute a helpful platform to engage with, ask questions as well as share experiences and photos. They showcase the natural beauty of Oman, injected with culture, traditions, people and attractions for all those currently in, and soon to be visiting Oman.

Royal Opera House and the National Museum of Oman.

With the natural playgrounds of Nizwa, boasting rugged dramatic landscape and wadis, the cooler more temperate climate of Salalah in the south and the spectacular coastline with its natural inlets and secluded beaches, there is something to discover for everyone.

We predict that these markets will continue to grow as our product offering develops, in line with the important and continuous expansion of worldwide adventure tourism.

Also, special-interest groups constitute one of the fastest growing segments of world tourism, and Oman perfectly caters for that category.

The Oman Ministry of Tourism’s 2040 Tourism Strategy is based on the cluster approach that creates a series of unique tourism experiences in specifically identified areas of Oman, reflecting local culture and heritage, history and adventure. The cluster model allows visitors to experience a variety of tourism experiences, both within each cluster or via an itinerary which covers multiple clusters.

The natural attractions, coupled with high class luxury resorts, desert camps and smaller mid-range accommodation, means that Oman can cater for holidaymakers looking for a truly authentic, quality, Arabian experience.

BTN: The ban on electronic devices on some flights out of the Middle East has, perhaps unnecessarily, raised safety concerns over aviation in the region. Although not directly connected, has the furore had a negative impact on Omani tourism?

A good visit option is to have visitors spend some time in Muscat before escaping to the cool of the mountains, having a true Bedouin experience in the desert or travelling down to Salalah in the south of the sultanate, which has a different climate entirely.

BTN: Which source markets are you most keen to grow in the mid-term? How can the government of Oman work to achieve this?

BTN: The United Arab Emirates, and in particular Dubai, have given the Middle East the image of a luxury destination. Does Oman fall into this category, or is there a different offering there?

Maitha Al Mahrouqi: We are noticing an increase in those consumers with an adventure and experiential travel focus; our visitors are interested in history and culture and activities such as sailing, cycling, trekking, golf, diving, spa and wellness and other special interest groups.

Maitha Al Mahrouqi: Oman is a fabulous and authentic, year-round destination steeped in culture and history. Oman offers stunning landscapes and plenty to do from outdoor adventure activities, spa and wellness and cultural attractions such as the

Maitha Al Mahrouqi: Oman Air continues to fly the national flag with pride and is an excellent asset to Omani tourism. As an airline, one of Oman Air’s mandates is to contribute to the economic growth of the sultanate by creating “air bridges” to bring tourists from abroad, which is good for tourism, and to create business opportunities for people both within Oman and via Oman.

The infrastructure to do this is now practically fully available; Muscat’s new airport is to be opened soon and the new passenger terminal in Muscat is nearing completion, meaning that the home base for Oman Air will be state of the art. The opening of the new Duqm airport during 2017 will also complete the extensive offering of regional gateways in Oman, in addition to Salalah and Sohar.

Maitha Al Mahrouqi: Safety and security in aviation, in the air, on aircraft, and on the ground, have always remained a top priority for Oman Air and remains at the forefront of proactive ingenuity work, planning, training and implementation. The new measure has not had a negative impact on Omani tourism. Oman is, and continues to be, entirely safe and secure.

BTN: Oman Air has been rapidly growing its network over the past few years and has been cutting down the financial support it receives from the government. How much of an asset is the carrier for Omani tourism?

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MORE INFORMATION Find out more about tourism in Oman at www.omantourism. gov.om or head over to Stand ME2110 here at Arabian Travel Market 2017.2017.

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INTERVIEW

Breaking Travel News Interview

ISSAM KAZIM, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, DUBAI CORPORATION FOR TOURISM & COMMERCE MARKETING With Expo 2020 now just three years away preparations are in full-swing.

Here we chat to Issam Kazim, chief executive, Dubai Corporation for Tourism & Commerce Marketing, about the impact the event will have on hospitality in the emirate and his ambitions for the legacy it will leave in the destination.

Breaking Travel News: Dubai has been explicit in its attempts to reach 20 million guests per annum by 2020. How is the emirate proceeding toward this target?

Issam Kazim: We have made steady progress towards achieving our strategic goal of 20 million visitors per year by 2020, as travellers seek to take advantage of Dubai’s superior shopping, outstanding hospitality, and wholesome family experiences.

Our recent announcement that over three million people visited Dubai during January and February of this year (representing a 12 per cent year-on-year growth in visitor numbers for the same period) is a positive step towards maintaining stable momentum over the next three years and reaching our 2020 goals.

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What’s more, we are gathering momentum as we approach Expo 2020, and are reinforcing Dubai’s position as a bustling, modern metropolis.

As we prepare to welcome 20 million visitors in time for Expo, the emirate’s public and private sectors are working to bring quality projects to Dubai to continuously enhance the city’s proposition.

Some of the mega-developments set to dominate the 2020 skyline include Bluewaters Island, featuring the spectacular Ain Dubai, as well as Aladdin City, Deira Islands, and the Jewel of the Creek – all backed by ease of access through an expanded network of public transportation that will include Etihad Rail and expansions to Dubai Metro.

Another focus for us is highlighting the heritage and culture that is unique to the city, through the

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on-going Dubai Historic District project that aims to greatly enhance the visitor experience in Dubai’s oldest neighbourhoods of Al Fahidi, Shindagha, Bur Dubai and Deira.

the Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing beginning to consider what might come after the event in terms of driving visitor numbers to Dubai?

More modern landmarks such as the recently opened Dubai Opera and Etihad Museum, will also help establish Dubai as a cultural hub.

IK: The years 2020/2021 will be an important period for us, as the city will host Expo 2020 Dubai, an event which will highlight the emphasis on strengthening a knowledge-economy in Dubai, and most importantly its significance to the UAE.

We are also working on initiatives to attract tourists from a more diverse range of source markets.

For example, Russia and China are two of our newer markets that are extremely important for the growth of tourism within Dubai.

Both markets have had some of the strongest growth yearon-year from 2015 to 2016, at 20 per cent and 14 per cent for China and Russia respectively.

The recent easing of visa regulations for Russian and Chinese visitors has already had extremely positive impact on tourist numbers from these two countries and we are anticipating this trend to continue.

BTN: With Expo 2020 now just a couple of years away, and plans almost complete, is

We anticipate that the effect of Expo 2020 Dubai will go far beyond the immediate economic impact of visitor spend while in Dubai.

It will be responsible not only for attracting attention and driving visitors, but also transferring knowledge on a macro-scale, encouraging trade, business development, inward investments and invaluable networking opportunities.

In order to remain a preferred destination, a city must continuously innovate and adapt to the evolving nature of the travel industry.

Dubai has undoubtedly done that quite well.

Creating the Future’ and how On the leisure front, the city is each of its pillars – Opportuniworld-renowned for continually launching the largest, tallest, ty, Sustainability and Mobility grandest and best attractions a – can seamlessly fit within this complementing eco-system. city can offer.

With a number of key leisure projects currently in development stage, and several in the pipeline to be launched post-Expo 2020, Dubai’s vision of being a premier destination is steadily being brought to life.

Apart from leisure, Dubai has also rapidly become the ideal platform in the Middle East for businesses and associations to succeed.

The city has gained strong momentum as we progress towards 2020 and contribute towards our goal of attracting 20 million visitors to the city.

Government authorities will continue to support Dubai’s evolution into a competitive global knowledge economy even beyond hosting the world’s next Expo.

BTN: What do you hope will be the legacy of Expo 2020?

For instance, most business events, international conferences and exhibitions taking place in Dubai are already hosting panels and forums on the subject for attendees, and are working towards goals and strategies that they aim to achieve during Expo 2020 Dubai and beyond.

Such is the significance of the Expo, and its impact is felt across industries, not only within the confines of the nation, but globally too.

We anticipate that this impact will continue to drive success for visitors to the city and businesses that operate within our nation.

Our goal through Expo 2020 is to create lasting legacies that go beyond the norm and will result in the completion of Dubai’s transformation into a knowledge-economy.

IK: As we enter the next phase of preparations for Expo 2020, we’ve already experienced a growing interest towards its theme of ‘Connecting Minds,

MORE INFORMATION With the ultimate vision of positioning Dubai as the world’s leading tourism destination and commercial hub, Dubai Corporation for Tourism & Commerce Marketing’s mission is to increase the awareness of Dubai among global audiences and to attract tourists and inward investment into the emirate.

Dubai Tourism is the principal authority for the planning, supervision, development and marketing of Dubai’s tourism sector. It markets and promotes the emirate’s commerce sector, and is responsible for the licensing and classification of all tourism services, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents.

Find out more about at www.visitdubai.com or head over to Stands ME3110 or ME3140 here at Arabian Travel Market.

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INTERVIEW

Breaking Travel News Interview

AHMED JANAHI, CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER, GULF AIR With nearly 40 new planes on order, Gulf Air is taking flight as a major carrier in the Middle East.

Here Breaking Travel News chats with Ahmed Janahi, chief commercial officer with the airline, to discover what the new aircraft will bring to the aviation sector in the region.

Breaking Travel News: This is an exciting time for Gulf Air, with a host of new aircraft scheduled to be delivered.

I understand you currently have ten Boeing 787-9 aircraft and 29 Airbus 320/321neo planes on order. What is the plan for these?

Airbus A321neo and 12 Airbus A320neo aircraft and, as we prepare to receive the new aircraft, passengers are sure to be delighted as Gulf Air’s family and business friendly offering is further tailored and enhanced to meet their travel needs across the Gulf Air network.

Ahmed Janahi: We are gearing up to receive 39 new aircraft from Boeing and Airbus in early 2018. With a new fleet and new product the sky’s the limit for Gulf Air as we looks forward to embarking upon a new chapter, going from strength to strength and building upon our already remarkable history.

We’ve already signed agreements with aircraft seat suppliers to ensure the best product offering on-board - this is in addition to future announcements regarding further offerings including inflight entertainment and much more.

growth and schedule enhancement (greater frequencies to select destinations). Our fleet was a primary focal point in our strategy and with our new fleet we will have the capability to expand and begin to realise our future network requirements – building upon our existing network which currently serves 42 cities in 25 countries spanning three continents. It also ensures that Gulf Air will maintain one of the youngest fleets in the region while building upon our award-winning reliability and on-time performance.

Going forward, we have implemented a ten-year strategy that will shape Gulf Air’s future trajectory – incorporating planned future fleet and network

The new aircraft arrival will herald a new era for Gulf Air and we are preparing for this and looking forward to a promising future.

The new aircraft, as you stated, will comprise ten Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, 17

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A h m e d Ja n a h i , c h i e f c o m m e r c i a l o f f i c e r, G u l f A i r

BTN: Which new routes do you see Gulf Air offering once these planes are fully operational?

Ahmed Janahi: Of course our new fleet will positively impact our network, helping us expand strategically across the globe. Gulf Air has successfully carved a niche for itself and today maintains a leadership position operating one of the largest networks in the region with numerous daily frequencies to ten regional cities in addition to select destinations in the Indian subcontinent and Europe, from our hub at Bahrain International Airport.

The coming years will see Gulf Air’s measured, strategic network expansion in line with our business strategy and ten-year plan.

We cannot comment on new routes at this time however we will continue to focus on high yield, point-to-point routes connecting regional markets alongside select, strategic international connections. Between now and 2023 we hope to expand our network to serve 60 destinations – however this may always change as, in our dynamic industry, we are well aware of the need for Gulf Air to be adaptable to future change in order to survive and thrive.

We are always assessing our network offering both in terms of destinations served and frequencies. Our mission is to provide safe and reliable air transportation with superior access to the region delivered with contemporary Arabian hospitality. As we work to respond and cater to passenger demand, wherever we see increased need we endeavour to

provide tailored travel solutions – so watch this space!

BTN: Gulf Air recently appointed German aircraft manufacturer Recaro Aircraft Seating to supply Recaro CL3710 economy class aircraft seats for the new planes. How will that improve the offering to customers?

Ahmed Janahi: We are committed to on-going investment in our product and service offering and, in line with this, we recently appointed German aircraft seat manufacturer Recaro Aircraft Seating to supply Recaro CL3710 economy class aircraft seats for our entire new fleet (ten Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft and 29 Airbus 320/321neo aircraft).

Reliability, design and comfort played an important role in Gulf Air opting for Recaro as seat supplier. The contract, which is valued at over €35 million, was signed at this year’s Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg.

The CL3710 stands for quality, exceptional design and comfort on long-haul flights. The multi-award-winning “made

by Recaro” economy class seat uniquely features a flexible and individually adjustable headrest, state-of-the-art IFE systems and extra legroom for passengers. Its modular lightweight construction is also an added benefit.

We want to continue ensuring our Gulf Air guests experience an exceptional level of service and quality on board our aircraft – and as we expand and modernise our fleet, Recaro’s economy class seats fit perfectly into our new

cabin concept, guaranteeing a pleasant travel experience for our passengers and standardising our product across our short and long-haul fleet.

BTN: Gulf Air has also recently improved its technology offering, launching an up to the minute flight status facility on gulfair.com. How has that been received?

Ahmed Janahi: It’s been very well received – our online offering is continually expanding in scope as we are working to facilitate a variety of ancillary travel options for our guests. By visiting gulfair.com passengers can now access and receive real-time information on their Gulf Air flights including customised flight trackers, destination, weather and flight status alerts via email/SMS/ Twitter that are all available in English, Arabic, German and French.

In addition to the Online Flight Status facility you can also make group bookings and secure a variety of online prepaid services such as seat selection, excess baggage (with rates 20 per cent lower than standard airport rates!) and lounge access.

With those new services we are ensuring greater ease and efficiency for our travellers, helping them not only move around the world easily, but also manage their travel experience simply and conveniently - enhancing their travel experience with Gulf Air. There’s more to come as we have a few more very exciting developments underway – to be announced at this year’s ATM in Dubai.

MORE INFORMATION Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, commenced operations in 1950, becoming one of the first commercial airlines established in the Middle East. Today, Gulf Air is a major international carrier serving 41 cities in 24 countries spanning three continents.

The airline operates one of the largest networks in the Middle East, with double daily flights or more to ten regional cities, in addition to select destinations in the Indian Subcontinent and Europe, from its hub at Bahrain International Airport.

Find out more at www.gulfair.com or head over to Stand ME1410 here at Arabian Travel Market 2017.

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FANTASTIC SAINT PETERSBURG WELCOMES YOU! Due to dynamic actions of the Government of Saint Petersburg focused on development of tourist industry, objects of city’s tourist infrastructure received a number of awards justifying its high international status and quality of services rendered.

Opinions of tourists happen to be the most important assessment of the work done. We will keep on doing our best to ensure that travelling to Saint Petersburg provides true pleasure to guests in future and contributes to forming a bright and appealing image of the city where one wants to come back to over and over again.

A.Mushkarev, Chairman, St. Petersburg Committee for tourism development

www.visit-petersburg.ru www.saintpetersburgcb.com

To stroll around royal park-and-palace ensembles St. Petersburg like an Empress wears a rich necklace — a necklace of royal summer residences located in the suburbs of the city.

Peterhof impresses by its numerous fountains, cascades and park pavilions .

The Catherine palace in Tsarskoe Selo is best known for the Golden Enfilade of state rooms that includes the world-famous Amber Room.

Pavlovsk is a cozy royal palace with unique chinaware, and amazing landscape park.

To touch the Russian Imperial history Saint Petersburg is the city of the white nights, draw bridges, royal palaces, museums and theatres, the cultural capital of Russia. It is the second largest city in Russia and the third one in Europe (after Moscow and London).

At 313, Saint Petersburg is quite young, yet the city has an impressive history. For a long time St. Petersburg remained the capital of the Russian Empire, and it was St. Petersburg that laid the foundation of socialist regime in the country

To get warm in winter The best opera and ballet performances, theatre and music festivals are performed at the season when the rivers and canals stand still, covered with the white armour of ice. Incredible Pancake week is a tasty period — to eat Russian dishes and to feel the spirit of Russia.

To crown it all the museums in winter are not overcrowded and the prices in the hotels decrease. Winter is time for magnificent balls that allow their guests to feel themselves like an Emperor

Saint Petersburg: A place to meet Saint Petersburg provides excellent modern congress and exhibition facilities, enabling it to hold world-class events.

The incentive and event industry in Saint Petersburg offers endless capabilities for business events, team building, corporate leisure and even exciting adventures.

The city possesses a wide range of exhibition spaces, conference halls and venues, comfortable hotels, and cosy restaurants with excellent cuisine.

Saint Petersburg restaurant festival-2017 From 01 to 30 November in Saint Petersburg the «Saint Petersburg restaurant festival-2017» will be held.

Since its foundation St. Petersburg has become not only the capital city but also a kind of trendsetter in architecture, culture, history, and the art of cooking.

Due to the fact that in the period of construction St. Petersburg the most famous and most talented European artists of the time were invited. With them our city began the tradition of cooking dishes from different European countries.

Chefs from France, Italy and Germany creatively reworked old recipes of Russian cuisine, so many Russian dishes and recipes have found an European tradition.

Later the influence of Petersburg’s cuisine began spreading across the territory of Russia, contributing to the diversity of traditional recipes from various regions of the country.

Nowadays we can confidently talk about the special Petersburg style of Russian cuisine imbued with the spirit of history, traditions, culinary experiments and innovations.

The program of the «Saint Petersburg restaurant festival-2017» includes themed dinners in restaurants, parties, workshops and master classes, shows in cooking the meals of Petersburg cuisine’s, activities for children and a special children’s menu, as well as exhibitions, competitions and much more.

The full program of the «Saint Petersburg restaurant festival-2017» you can see on St. Petersburg Official City Guide www.visit-petersburg.ru

Festival of Lights Festival of Lights is becoming one of the most exciting gala events in Saint Petersburg in spring and autumn.

The festival brings together artists, painters and musicians and thousands of visitors who enjoy all patterns of light on different historical monuments.

The festival will bring to life miraculous breathtaking art by newest 3D-mapping and audiovisual technologies.

To feel the city’s soul Modern St. Petersburg, crisscrossed by numerous rivers and canals, stands on more than 100 islands, which are linked to one another by more than 400 bridges. This is why the city is often called “the Venice of the North”.

Nearly every building in the downtown is considered to be a historic monument, hence the city’s definition — “open-air museum”. Its historical centre, palace and park ensembles are inscribed in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.

Churches and cathedrals Saint Petersburg was planned as a Westoriented city and has always been renowned for its hospitality. Peter the Great encouraged foreigners, especially from Europe, to come to the new capital: they brought a new way of life, knowledge and traditions. To make foreigners feel comfortable in the city Peter the Great and his successors paid much attention to the construction of churches and cathedrals for people of various religions.

Though Saint Petersburg is known as a city of different creeds, it is the Orthodoxy that has long been the official religion of Russia.

That is why special emphasis was laid on orthodox churches. The world’s best architects built churches and cathedrals in Saint Petersburg. Sublimity of St.Isaac’s Cathedrals, proportion of the Nikolsky (St.Nicholas’) Cathedral, smartness of the Church of Resurrection of Christ (Spas-na-Krovi) always attract visitors of the city. The beauty and splendor of their inner decorations make indelible impressions upon guests’ minds.

To immerse yourself in St. Petersburg romantics During the “white nights” the Petersburgers flock to the banks of the Neva to see the sun set. The “white nights” period lasts from May to July. Countless festivals and concerts are held in the parks and on the city’s squares and embankments: Scarlet Sails school leavers festival, River Carnival, Festival of Ice Crackers, Festivals of garden art. During such days the city marks its anniversary – on May 27th. Every day from May to October sometime after two o’clock in the morning the multi-tonne wings of the bridges swing gently upwards to let vessels on the river pass.

FIFA Confederations Cup 2017/FIFA World Cup 2018 St. Petersburg city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tourism is one of the key sectors of the city’s economy. St. Petersburg welcomes up to seven million tourists each year, more than any other city in Russia.

In the same artistic tradition, a new state-of-theart 70,000-seat stadium is being constructed on Krestovsky Island facing the Baltic Sea. Resembling a spaceship, it was designed by the famous architect Kisho Kurokawa. The stadium will have a retractable pitch, ensuring that the quality of the turf remains high regardless of the weather. The Saint Petersburg Stadium in Saint Petersburg will host the final of FIFA Confederations Cup on 2 July 2017 and the semi-final of FIFA World Cup on 10 July 2018.

To travel without visa The travelers arriving to St. Petersburg by sea (ferry or cruise ship) can get 72 hours visa-free entry and stay in the city if they have the tour program (voucher). The passengers can acquire the voucher on the board of a ship.

There are just 4 steps to visa-free entry: 1. Purchase an airline ticket to Helsinki There are more than 10 airlines that provide direct flights from European cities to Helsinki

2. Book a ferry cabin St. Peter Line ferries sail from Helsinki every two days according to schedule (at approximately 6 p.m.). Travel time is about 13–15 hours. Estimated time of arrival in Saint Petersburg is 9 a.m. the following day. The ferry sails back from Saint Petersburg 3 days later.

3. Book a transfer from the seaport of Saint Petersburg The ferry company will provide a transfer service to the city centre and also to some hotels. It is a paid service, but it is mandatory if you would like to purchase a visa-free cruise travel. The transfer fee is 25 euro.

4. Select a hotel to stay in the city centre After selecting a cabin and booking the transfer service you can select a hotel in the city centre from the list of hotels.

Please note that to use the visa-free stay option, you may only choose a hotel to stay from the list of hotels included in your tour group program.

Your travel agent will provide you with the full list of the hotels available for booking and the room prices, or, if you book a St. Peter Line Company ferry online, you can select a hotel online.

Murcia · Spain If there is one thing that defines La Manga Club, it is our unparalleled sports facilities.

Covering an area of around 1,400 acres, the resort’s award-winning facilities include three 18-hole golf courses, a 28-court tennis centre, eight FIFAapproved football pitches and modern cricket amenities.

If that wasn’t enough, La Manga Club boasts an array of four and five-star accommodation, a luxury spa and more than 15 bars and restaurants – plus one of the best climates in Europe.

THE END RESULT, A TRULY UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE.

Tel. +34 968 17 5577 reservas@lamangaclub.com lamangaclub.com

F E AT U R E

LA MANGA CLUB TO HOST 4TH ANNUAL WORLD GOLF AWARDS

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World Golf Awards has revealed that the fivestar La Manga Club resort, an unrivalled sports and leisure paradise in southeast Spain, will host its Gala Ceremony 2017 at the end of this year.

L a M a n g a C l u b t o h o s t 4 t h a n n u a l Wo r l d G o l f A w a r d s

The most prestigious awards programme in the golf tourism industry will take place at the famous venue in Murcia, from 23-26 November 2017.

Attendees will be welcomed to Spain’s flagship resort for three action-packed days of networking events, dinners and exclusive golf experience activities.

The highlight of the event will be the red-carpet World Golf Awards Gala Ceremony on Saturday 25 November, where golf tourism figureheads and market leaders from North America, Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa, Central & South America and Australasia will gather together at La Manga Club’s Hotel Principe Felipe for the 2017 winners to be announced.

“The team and I are beyond excited to be bringing the World Golf Awards to Spain for the first time,” commented Chris Frost, World Golf Awards Managing Director.

“We look forward to welcoming industry leaders and luminaries to La Manga Club, Spain’s most exclusive sports and leisure resort, in November and I know it will be a weekend to remember.”

The official overseas training base of the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), the resort’s unrivalled facilities as a sports and leisure destination also include a 28-court tennis centre and a 2,000sqm spa and fitness centre. In addition, La Manga Club features the choice of a fivestar hotel, four-star serviced apartments and townhouses and more than 20 bars and restaurants.

José Asenjo, General Manager of La Manga Club, said: “It’s a great honour and privilege to be chosen to host the World Golf Awards for the first time, in what is a landmark year for the resort as we celebrate our 45th birthday.

“Every year the event attracts some of the most respected figures in the golf industry, and we’re very excited to have this opportunity to showcase our numerous world-class golf and leisure facilities to a key global audience and look forward to welcoming everyone here in November.”

Voting for the World Golf Awards is now open and will conclude on 1 October 2017.

Set across an area of 1,400 acres, La Manga Club has been at the forefront of European sports and leisure destinations since its inception in 1972.

Featuring three 18-hole golf courses, a nine-hole academy course and outstanding practice facilities, La Manga Club has enjoyed a rich golfing history over the last four decades. Golfing legends Gary Player, Arnold Palmer and Seve Ballesteros all figure prominently in its past, while its array of other outstanding sports and leisure amenities, bars and restaurants has helped establish La Manga Club as a firm favourite with golfers worldwide.

MORE INFORMATION Please visit the official website, www.worldgolfawards.com. For further details about La Manga Club, go to www.lamangaclub.com

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worldgolfawards.com

worldgolfawards

Celebrating Excellence in Golf Tourism

La Manga Club, Spain 23rd-26th November 2017

F E AT U R E

BURJ AL ARAB JUMEIRAH CLAIMS SOCIAL MEDIA CROWN The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, the world’s most luxurious hotel, has taken the crown as the most followed hotel on Facebook and Instagram.

She brings a wealth of experience to the role after spearheading Madinat Jumeirah – The Arabian Resort since 2012.

The luxurious property – recognised as the World’s Leading Luxury Hotel by the World Travel Awards – has over 500,000 followers on both platforms.

The iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah offers guests the finest service and experiences, including private beach access and luxury leisure on a breath-taking terrace with pools and cabanas.

In this role Paul oversaw the resort’s four hotels – Jumeirah Al Qasr, Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf and the latest luxury hotel in the group’s portfolio, Jumeirah Al Naseem, as well as the popular Souk Madinat Jumeirah and the resort’s conference centre.

In addition, guests have the luxury of choosing between the hotels nine signature restaurants and bars, including the highly-acclaimed Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara and Gold on 27.

Paul, a Scottish national, has been with Jumeirah Group since 2002.

BURJ AL ARAB JUMEIRAH

GENERAL MANAGER At the same time, Jumeirah Group has made a number of internal changes to its management team in Dubai as it seeks to support its continued commitment to enhance and redefine the guest experience.

The distinctive sail-shaped silhouette of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is more than just a stunning hotel; it is a symbol of modern Dubai. Yet for all the wonder this stunning structure provides when you finally see it in person, it is the service within that really makes the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah so extraordinary.

Margaret Paul has been appointed general manager at the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and will oversee the management of 1,400 members of staff, 202 suites and nine food and beverage outlets.

Repeatedly voted the world’s most luxurious hotel, this magnificent destination offers you the finest service and experiences throughout - right down to an optional chauffeur-driven Rolls-

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Bur j Al Arab Jumeirah claims social media crown

Royce, helicopter trips from an iconic helipad, private beach access, luxury leisure on a breathtaking terrace with pools and cabanas as well as some of the world’s best dining venues, including the highly acclaimed Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara.

Across the hotel’s nine signature restaurants and bars, dining is about far more than food. Burj Al Arab specialise in bringing together every element to ensure your experience is exceptional. Soak up the vibrant atmosphere in our elegant spaces, dotted through Burj Al Arab from the atrium all the way to the skyline. While each restaurant is unique, each shares the ability to create flavour combinations that linger in your mind long after the meal is over.

From authentic Arabic cuisine to Far East Asian and Modern European dishes, Burj Al Arab has sourced ingredients from around the globe to create a dining experience fit for the world’s most luxurious hotel.

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah suite-only accommodation offers discreet check-in within your suite, a private reception on every floor and a host of personal butlers, each a warm messenger of our unparalleled hospitality.

TALISE SPA

BURJ AL ARAB TERRACE

Perched 150 metres above the Arabian Gulf, Talise Spa is the ultimate destination to luxuriate, relax and rejuvenate. Each experience has been carefully crafted and exclusively developed using the world’s most luxurious products to leave you utterly pampered.

Set in the stunning azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, discover the new Burj Al Arab Terrace. Located at Dubai’s most iconic hotel, the terrace is a remarkable, oneof-a-kind restaurant, pool, beach and cabana space, offering hotel guests and Burj Al Arab members the finest Arabian hospitality.

Bathed in natural light, this ground-breaking spa offers a sanctuary for guests to indulge in an extensive menu of pampering treatments – all designed to reinvigorate and restore. From facials and organic body wraps to Chakra balancing hot stone massage, each treatment uses the highest quality products and latest methods in personal care.

terrace was built offshore in Finland and transported to Dubai by sea.

The private 10,000 square metre outdoor luxury leisure facility now seamlessly stretches 100 metres out into the sea and is home to Scape Restaurant & Bar, two stunning pools, dedicated butler-serviced cabanas, and a beach area with luxury day and sunbeds.

A breakthrough combination of creative marine design, ingenious engineering and guest-friendly planning, the

MORE INFORMATION Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, operates a world-class portfolio of hotels and resorts including the flagship Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

The spacious Talise Spa is housed over two levels, and boasts enough luxurious serenity to calm even the most hectic lifestyle. Leave the world behind and reconnect with your inner self in a space that inspires relaxation.

Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts manages properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Kuwait in the Middle East; Frankfurt, Istanbul, London and Mallorca (Spain) in Europe; the Maldives and Shanghai in Asia.

Find out more at www.jumeirah.com or visit Jumeirah Group on Stand HC0330 here at Arabian Travel Market

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F E AT U R E

JUMEIRAH REACHES OUT TO INDIAN MARKET WITH NEW APPOINTMENT Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel company which operates a worldclass portfolio of hotels including the flagship Burj Al Arab Jumeirah in Dubai has appointed Blue Square Consultants to represent the company in India.

Travellers from India are attracted to Dubai’s extensive shopping malls, sightseeing attractions, vibrant night life, world-class restaurants and luxurious hotels.

Recently, the UAE Cabinet approved a decision to grant Indian passport holders with either a valid US visa or a green card a UAE visa on arrival for a period of 14 days.

This new rule is set to make

to our properties around the world, in particular Dubai, London and the Maldives.

last minute trips, holidays, short stays, long weekends and stopover trips to Dubai far more accessible.

“These destinations, plus Istanbul, are the top India outbound travel destinations in which Jumeirah has presence. We recently enhanced our family and luxury appeal with the launch of The Terrace at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and

Alison Broadhead, chief commercial officer, Jumeirah Group, said: “India has always been a top source market for Dubai however in recent years, we have noticed an increase in luxury travellers from this region

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the opening of the new Jumeirah Al Naseem hotel, at Madinat Jumeirah.

“Dubai has also boosted its family attractions with the opening of Dubai Parks and Resorts which includes Legoland and Bollywood Parks Dubai - the first theme park in the world dedicated to Bollywood. Through our new partnership with BSC,

Jumeirah reaches out to Indian market with new appointment

we look forward to expanding our reach further to the Indian outbound luxury travel segment.”

Jumeirah Group will be managed by the North, West and South offices and BSC will be responsible for Jumeirah’s India sales focusing mainly on high quality leisure travellers and MICE. They will

said: “We are elated to have been appointed as Jumeirah Group’s representative in India. Jumeirah’s hotels are regarded as among the most luxurious in the world and provide the luxury Indian traveller the chance to discover incredible experiences at their hotels in Dubai and around the world.”

also be responsible for the brand’s India communication programme including content creation, influencer programmes, media engagement, event management and other such activities.

Speaking about the partnership, Lubaina Sheerazi, chief operating officer with Blue Square Consultants,

MORE INFORMATION Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, operates a world-class portfolio of hotels and resorts including the flagship Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts manages properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Kuwait in the Middle East; Frankfurt, Istanbul, London and Mallorca (Spain) in Europe; the Maldives and Shanghai in Asia.

Jumeirah Group also runs the luxury serviced residences brand Jumeirah Living with properties in London and Dubai; the new lifestyle hotel brand Venu; the wellness brand Talise; Jumeirah Restaurant Group Dubai; Wild Wadi Waterpark The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management; Jumeirah Sirius, its global loyalty programme; and isme by Jumeirah, an app based rewards programme in the UAE. Future openings include luxury hotels in China, Indonesia, Jordan, Malaysia, Oman, Russia and the UAE. Find out more at www.jumeirah.com or head over to Stand HC0330 here at Arabian Travel Market.

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F E AT U R E

EMIRATES PALACE MARKS 120 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE Emirates Palace has joined the celebrations as Kempinski Hotels markes 120 years of excellence with ‘Ignite the Night’, an evening of festivity and delight for guests.

A testament to Kempinski Hotels’ European heritage, Emirates Palace celebrated the ‘Ignite the Night’ gala at the Emirates Palace Marina for a memorable night of canapés, refreshments and a breathtaking view of the palace and the Arabian Gulf. In line with the milestone anniversary, Kempinski Hotels has launched the Kempinski ‘Travel in Style’ competition. Participants have the chance to win an exclusive ten-night trip for two, with airfare, limousine transfers, and a suite experience in three of Kempinski’s hotels.

Markus Semer, chairman of the management board and chief executive of Kempinski Hotels, said: “After 120 years, we’re delighted to pay tribute to an extraordinary past, and herald an exciting future. Our founder, Berthold Kempinski, paved the way for a new standard of hospitality, based on timeless European elegance and impeccable service.”

He added: “He created venues that introduced guests to new experiences, in unique and original surroundings, and his innovative and entrepreneurial approach has remained the inspiration for our development over the years.”

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Emirates Palace is among the world’s most iconic hotels that are managed and operated

by Kempinski. The award-winning five-star luxury hotel boasts quintessential luxury in its rooms and suites, luxury spa, and signature restaurants and bars.

“We have spent 120 years exploring the world, creating a constellation of remarkable havens to which guests can travel and stay in style, and we haven’t lost our thirst for discovery,” said Semer. “While we value and preserve our traditions, we will continue to develop new and innovative approaches to hospitality, so while celebrating our past this year, we can also look forward to a bright future.”

ANNIVERSARY Kempinski Hotels is also celebrating 120 years of delivering rich and meaningful experiences to its guests, with the launch of Stage for Young Artists supporting the next generation of musicians. The programme will turn Kempinski hotel lobbies into a stage for talented musicians from local communities. To mark this milestone anniversary, Kempinski will offer daily opportunities for music students

E m i r a t e s Pa l a c e m a r k s 1 2 0 y e a r s o f e x c e l l e n c e

MORE INFORMATION

to perform in the lobbies of hotels, starting in Berlin, Munich, Vienna, Venice and St. Moritz, following at other participating Kempinski hotels around the world.

Commenting on this milestone anniversary and the Stage for Young Artists, Semer continued: “Kempinski is proud to support young artists from local communities, who will no doubt enchant our guests with their own unique performances. In doing so, they will also be helping to create memorable experiences in keeping with our special brand of luxury, that blends traditional elegant European service, with local customs and flavour.”

Berthold Kempinski founded the hotel brand at the end of the nineteenth century.

Created in 1897, Kempinski Hotels is Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group. The brand’s rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties.

Kempinski now manages a portfolio of 75 five-star hotels and residences in 30 countries and continues to add new properties in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Each one reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand without losing sight of its heritage.

The portfolio comprises historic land-

mark properties, award-winning urban lifestyle hotels, outstanding resorts, and prestigious residences. Each one is imbued with the quality guests have come to expect from Kempinski while embracing the cultural traditions of its location.

Kempinski’s Emirates Palace is considered the World’s Leading Luxury Beach Resort by voters at the World Travel Awards, while the property also took the title of World’s Best Spa Hotel at the World Spa Awards last year.

Emirates Palace is centrally located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, close to major visitor attractions and the main business areas of the city.

Just 40 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport and 90 minutes from Dubai Airport, Emirates Palace is conveniently situated for both leisure and business travellers.

Popular tourist sites close to the Emirates Palace include the Grand Mosque and the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, both located 20 minutes away. The Marina Mall and major shopping attractions are also within walking distance of the hotel.

Find out more at www. kempinski.com or head over to Stands ME2115 and ME2250 here at Arabian Travel Market 2017.

CUBA As well as the 120th anniversary, 2017 also marks the return of Kempinski to the Americas, with the opening of Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana, Cuba’s first five-star luxury hotel. Housed in one of Old Havana’s most iconic buildings, the hotel will be the newest star in the Kempinski constellation.

“We have spent 120 years exploring the world, creating a constellation of remarkable havens to which guests can travel and stay in style, and we haven’t lost our thirst for discovery,” concludes Semer. “While we value and preserve our traditions, we will continue to develop new and innovative approaches to hospitality, so while celebrating our past this year, we can also look forward to a bright future.”

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ROTANA SIGNS WITH RSG INTERNATIONAL FOR LATEST DUBAI PROPERTY Rotana has signed an agreement with RSG International for a new five star hotel and serviced apartment project in Dubai, located in Sufouh Gardens on Sheikh Zayed Road

Named Sabah Rotana, the 54-storey, 534-room property will be managed by Rotana on behalf of RSG International and is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2020.

The agreement was signed by Raj Sahni (Abu Sabah), owner and chairman of RSG International, and Nasser Al Nowais, chairman of Rotana. Also present at the signing ceremony were Sabah Sahni, vice chairman of RSG International, Sumeet Sahni, deputy vice chairman of RSG International, and Jasjit Singh Jaaj, group chief executive of RSG International, as well as Selim El Zyr, vice chairman of Rotana, and Omer Kaddouri president of Rotana.

“We are very pleased to partner with RSG International, that brings over 25 years of experience in real estate and property development, on this new venture,” said Nasser Al Nowais. “Sabah Rotana has been designed keeping in mind the comfort and flexibility that today’s modern traveller demands, and will offer guests an enriching experience.”

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Rotana signs with R SG International for latest Dubai proper ty

He added: “The project continues Rotana’s strategy of centrally locating its properties in prime city areas in order for guests to enjoy greater convenience and easy accessibility.”

vicinity of Jumeirah Central district, Dubai’s new urban lifestyle capital, and is only minutes away from iconic city landmarks and major shopping destinations and business centres.

Rotana is one of the leading hotel management companies in the Middle East, Africa, south Asia and eastern Europe, and is recognised as the World’s Leading Business Hotel Brand by the World Travel Awards. At the same time, RSG International is a UAE-based global conglomerate, with interests in the property development, automotive and industrial equipment sectors across the Middle East, North America and south Asia.

Guests can look forward to a quiet and comfortable accommodation at the exquisitely designed hotel which features 210 spacious, well-appointed rooms in addition to ten executive suites and two ultra-luxurious presidential suites. The hotel apartments meanwhile will include 260 one-bedroom and 52 two-bedroom apartments that will provide guests with all the comforts for a pleasant and memorable long stay.

Raj Sahni (Abu Sabah) said: “We are proud to award management of one of our distinguished projects to the region’s premier hotel management company. Set in a prominent location in one of Dubai’s most vibrant and dynamic communities, on Sheikh Zayed Road, we hope to create an iconic hospitality landmark in Dubai.”

He added: “RSG International has long been a trusted name in the region’s property development market, and our collaboration with Rotana on this prestigious new project will allow us to consolidate our presence in the fast-growing hospitality segment.”

Complementing the elegant rooms and suites will be an impressive array of food and beverage offerings with seven unique venues including restaurants, bars and three night clubs including one on the roof top, serving a variety of delectable cuisines, styles and atmosphere.

Another key attraction will be the business and recreational facilities including three fully-equipped meeting rooms, an executive lounge, and an ultra-modern gym, swimming pool and wellness lounge. Further distinguishing the property will be its massive parking facility, which is spread across the basement and podium levels and will accommodate up to 800 vehicles.

Rising up to 54 storeys, Sabah Rotana is located on Sheikh Zayed Road, towering over the Al Sufouh landscape and will offer majestic views of the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah and neighbouring communities such as Emirates Living. It is in the

MORE INFORMATION Rotana currently manages a portfolio of over 100 properties throughout the Middle East, Africa, South Asia and Eastern Europe with an aggressive expansion plan in place.

Rotana has chosen to acknowledge how precious time is by making all time spent in their range of hotels Treasured Time. This means Rotana has pledged to understand and meet the individual needs of all guests. In so doing, Rotana has evolved its product brands to include, Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Centro Hotels by Rotana, Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts by Rotana, Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana and The Residences by Rotana.

Treasured Time. The Rotana promise to you.

Further information on any Rotana property, its brands or reservations can be obtained by visiting rotana.com or by head over to Stand HC0720 here at Arabian Travel Market.

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VICEROY PALM JUMEIRAH DUBAI WELCOMES FIRST GUESTS

The newly opened Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai will bring a touch of the playful Viceroy LA vibe to the Middle East and is the brand’s second property in the UAE. Here we take a tour.

Designed by the innovative Yabu Pushelberg and NAO Taniyama and Associates, the 477-room beachfront Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai is located at the base of the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah, overlooking the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai Marina Skyline.

Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai’s pioneering design and trailblazing architecture was inspired by ancient Roman amphitheatres with its glass-clad structure, creating a real sense of space and light, allowing views of the pool and sea to filter through. A striking, one-of-a-kind, 15 metre by 15 metre glass cube will take centre stage in the lobby.

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V i c e r o y Pa l m J u m e i r a h D u b a i w e l c o m e s f i r s t g u e s t s

A show stopping 60-metre statement swimming pool will run through the heart of the hotel, flanked with palm trees, shaded sunbeds and a sleek bar, complete with sunken bar seating and tables.

The glamorous interiors have been designed to capture the heat, energy and vibe of this fun-loving city with a calming colour palette of teal and bronze mixed with touches of light and dark wood, brushed bronze and marble creating balance and refinement. All 477 of the elegant guestrooms give a subtle nod to the art deco era, boasting their own balconies, spacious Greek and Italian marbled bathrooms and rain showers stocked with Natura Bissé and Roil amenities as well as interactive 42” LCD televisions, refreshment centres with cocktail making facilities and coffee machines.

The standout four bedroom villas feature their own private plunge pools and Jacuzzis as well as exclusive access to the hotel’s very own yacht.

The high-energy resort will be a true feast for all the senses with ten spectacular drinking and dining outlets, including an outpost of the highly-acclaimed Mayfair and Amalfi Coast institution, Quattro Passi, presided over by founder and Chef Antonio Mellino. Quattro Passi will offer culinary theatre and

innovative Italian cooking inspired by the fresh flavours of Campania, Southern Italy including delicious handmade pastas, risottos, fresh seafood and slow-cooked meats.

A carefully curated selection of premium spa brands will be offered including body and face treatments from Natura Bisse, QMS and Guinot and cleansing hammam rituals with local brand Terres D’Afrique.

Modern Chinese cuisine will be available at Maiden Shanghai, speciality Chinese Restaurant. Other culinary highlights include: vibrant all-day dining brassiere, BLVD on One; buzzy neighbourhood-style coffee shop, The Delisserie; stylish pool-side dining and cocktails at The Pool Bar; light meals and afternoon tea in the Lobby Bar; Elevate for wine and sun-downers and great views and The Beach Club for fresh seafood and slick tunes.

Indulgent signature treatments include the 90 minute Viceroy Desert Sensory Experience, a multi-sensory experience taking guests on a holistic journey across the Arabian Desert. The treatment begins with a powerful visual meditation followed by the placement of ostrich feathers and ostrich eggs filled with warm sand on strategic points of the body, allowing even deeper relaxation. The scents of Oud, Frankincense and exotic African wood are also used along with the vibration of Tibetan bowls, leaving the guest feeling completely rebalanced, relaxed, and re-energised.

VICEROY SPA A luxurious 1,675sqm spa will provide a cutting-edge wellness experience, blending the latest aesthetic medical-based treatments from LA with a programme of holistic locally-inspired massages and hammam treatments.

CHILDREN While grown-ups are relaxing in the spa, younger guests will be entertained in the colourful Generation V kid’s club enjoying enriching and educational experiences including yoga, local arts and crafts, Olympic Games, cookery, discos, creative storytelling with puppets and role play. There will also be a dedicated children’s pool for hours of fun in the water and babysitting on hand for weary

The spa will comprise 14 standalone treatment rooms, including four open air cabanas, hammam, spa pool, relaxation lounge, spa café and fully-equipped TechnoGym fitness centre with personal training upon request and complimentary daily classes including bootcamp, beach buddy workouts and yoga.

parents wishing to enjoy a dinner à deux.

Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai will provide a spectacular backdrop to any event or special celebration, boasting a 600sqm Vista Ballroom suspended on the 14th floor with panoramic views across the Arabian Gulf, accommodating up to 350 guests.

There will also be three fully-equipped meeting rooms, with a combined capacity of 245sqm with views towards the Burj al Khalifa.

Commenting on the opening, general manager, Mikael Svensson said: “I am extremely proud to be involved in such a landmark launch which will inject a new and refreshing LA vibe into the Dubai hotel scene.”

“We have exceptional stat-ofthe-art facilities but it is our dedicated, fun-loving and passionate team that is the core essence of Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai.

“We actually ripped up the rulebook in terms of pre-opening staff training and engaged a theatrical company to run a number of workshops, resulting in the creation this outstanding team.”

MORE INFORMATION Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, operates a world-class portfolio of hotels and resorts including the flagship Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts manages properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Kuwait in the Middle East; Frankfurt, Istanbul, London and Mallorca (Spain) in Europe; the Maldives and Shanghai in Asia.

Find out more at www.jumeirah.com or visit Jumeirah Group on Stand HC0330 here at Arabian Travel Market

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OUR WORLD IS YOUR PLAYGROUND DUBAI CREEK CITY CENTRE

PULLMAN DUBAI CREEK CITY CENTRE HOTEL & RESIDENCES Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre Hotel Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre Hotel is only 10 minutes away from the Dubai Internatioal Airport and boasts 317 rooms and suites with a sleek minimalist interior design epitomizes the contemporary sophistication of this modern hotel. It blends luxurious comforts with high technology to provide an exceptional space in which to work, live and relax. For meeting conveniences, a business centre of 9 rooms in a dedicated meeting space of 909 squaremeters allows flexibility to host groups of different sizes from board meetings, conferences, social events to formal functions. Guests can also enjoy contemporary dining at the “Medley” restaurant; enjoy a power lunch or sweet delights at “Le Café”. Watch the latest sporting action at “La Fabrique” or relax while glancing at spectacular views over the old Dubai skyline at “Azure Pool Lounge” rooftop bar. A newly enhanced hotel in the heart of Old Dubai, Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre Hotel is situated in Deira, Dubai’s heritage hub.

Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre Residences Providing guests a distinguished residential address to call your own, Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre Residences features a seamless contemporary interior that exudes simplicity with colourful accents throughout the design with its 133 apartments. Offering a cosmopolitan living that one expects while staying in such a centrally located place to live, it truly offers you the best of Old Dubai charm. With its connection to Deira City Centre Mall and Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre Hotel, both entertainment and service are at hand. Enjoy panoramic views of neighbouring Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. A quick walk through the mall leads you to the Dubai Metro giving you the most convenient way to navigate the city. All in one property, it is ready to indulge its guests with its world renowned offerings from business to leisure. The premise offers the ideal venue to enjoy an authentic Arabian experience, shop and stay getaways, meetings that are kept upbeat with innovative break activities and the contemporary art scene that Pullman surrounds itself with.

PULLMAN DUBAI CREEK CITY CENTRE - Deira City Centre, P.O. Box 61871 Dubai, UAE - T. +971 (0)4 294 1222 - E. H2022@accor.com - pullman-dubai-creek-citycentre.com

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KATARA TOWERS SET TO DEBUT IN 2020

Katara Hospitality, the leading hotel owner, developer and operator in the state of Qatar, has updated stakeholders on the latest plans and developments for the iconic Katara Towers, Lusail Marina District Towers.

A natural extension of Doha city, Lusail has been designed to encompass a modern, luxurious yet practical business and residential environment while being relevant for Qatar’s thriving economy. With four exclusive islands and 19 multi-purpose residential, mixed-use, entertainment and commercial districts, Lusail City is set to accommodate a total estimated population of 450,000 people, making it an element of attraction for investment in Qatar.

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Katara Hospitality is one of the first investors that understood the significance of the project, committing to developing the hospitality icon of Doha for the 21st century in Lusail City.

“The world’s most loved cities are often identified through imagery and landmark buildings. We strongly believe the property we are developing will provide Qatar with an architectural symbol that is known and understood right across the globe,” said Sheikh Nawaf bin Jassim bin Jabor Al Thani, chairman, Katara Hospitality.

Symbolically intertwined with Qatar’s heritage, the iconic towers in Lusail are an architectural translation of Qatar’s national seal, representing the traditional scimitar swords.

Raising gracefully from the podium level, the arched towers will host a luxurious five-star hotel to cater to discerning business travellers, a lavish six-star hotel to meet the needs of those seeking sophisticated luxury accommodation and branded apartments to become home to permanent residents. The property will make available a total of 614 rooms.

State-of-the-art entertainment and recreational facilities, including specialist boutiques, VIP movie theatres, signature restaurants and a private cigar lounge are to be complemented by exquisite banqueting and conference spaces, as well as office dedicated areas.

The project has been recently enhanced with additional facilities, thanks to plans for a spectacular man-made satellite beach-front island.

This will be home to an incredible mix of leisure and water sports facilities, food and beverage outlets as well as world-class water parks within a stunning, sun-protected garden environment.

MORE INFORMATION Katara Hospitality currently owns properties spread across three continents in Qatar, Egypt, Morocco, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Singapore and Thailand.

While it partners with some of the finest hotel management companies, Katara Hospitality operates owned and non-owned hotels through its standalone operating arm, Murwab Hotel Group.

Find out more at www.katarahospitality.com or visit Stand HC0850 here at Arabian Travel Market.

Linked to the towers promenade by bridges, this spectacular feature will pin this property as a reference landmark within the global hospitality landscape.

move towards creating the future hospitality landmark in LusailCity.

“Our aim is to create the hospitality icon of the 21st century that is within one of the world’s most exciting urban developments. Our vision is to set new standards that go beyond the borders of the hospitality industry and provide a landmark location that is instantly recognised internationally,” commented Sheikh Nawaf.

“While we regard 2022 as a milestone in the country’s development, this new property in Lusail will also occupy a focal point for residents and travellers during the FIFA World Cup. We believe that this is our opportunity to showcase a country that has grown into an international destination and Katara Hospitality will create the landmark to underpin lifetime memories.”

Building is currently underway, while the official opening of the property is expected in early 2020.

Designed by architectural firm Kling Consult, the hospitality complex will cover a total area of approximately 300,000 square meters. The revised estimated investment that includes the satellite beach-front island amounts to QAR 2.2bn.

hotels and the company is now focused on achieving its target of 60 hotels in its portfolio by 2026. As the country’s flagship hospitality organisation, Katara Hospitality supports Qatar’s long term economic vision.

Sheikh Nawaf concluded: “As Qatar National Vision 2030 creates the perfect framework for us, we will continue to develop peerless hospitality at home and abroad that are not only jewels in our portfolio, but are emblematic for Qatar as well.”

Katara Hospitality is a global hotel owner, developer and operator, based in Qatar.

With more than 45 years’ experience in the industry, Katara Hospitality actively pursues its strategic expansion plans by investing in peerless hotels in Qatar while growing its collection of iconic properties in key international markets.

Hamad Abdulla Al Mulla, chief executive, Katara Hospitality, stated: “Progress on this iconic development is advancing swiftly and we are in a strong position as we

Katara Hospitality’s portfolio has grown to include 34 owned and/or managed

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AL KHOZAMA MANAGEMENT COMPANY EXPANDS FOOTPRINT INTO UAE Al Khozama Management Company has announced the opening of its first regional office - marking the start of its international aspirations. the properties we manage. Bringing to market – novel cultural, leisure and travel concepts,” Hussien Hatata, vice president of hospitality, Al Khozama.

He added: “With the key being in the concept, we want to add to the market, spark its imagination and give our guests rich experiences be it our hotels, malls and even within office space. We just launched a new concept resort in Riyadh and our plans for the future include more properties in the eastern and western regions of the Kingdom. The UAE is a natural next step for us.”

Al Khozama’s leadership has built a legacy over the decades, for its distinct skilfulness in identifying needs and bringing to fruition what was once perceived luxury niches within both hospitality and realty. Al Khozama transformed the luxury hospitality industry in the Kingdom by introducing the first five-star luxury hotel – Al Faisaliah in 2000 – introducing its signature butler concept for all rooms and suites.

The award winning company takes this step with the primary view to drive its hospitality portfolio growth regionally. The vision of the company’s board of directors led by its chairman, HH Prince Bandar bin Saud bin Khalid Al Saud, is to expand its reach beyond the boundaries of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and become recognized as the leading Arabian hospitality company – the first choice for its guests, partners and staff.

The company currently manages a wide-ranging portfolio from leisure resorts, city centre business hotels and residences, and hotels in the Holy city of Makkah.

“We are absolutely delighted and proud to reach this milestone. As a company, we are in times of significant change and expansion. Our board’s resolute vision is progressively materialising. We are developing new and redeveloping a number of

“Our clients both the businesses and individuals expect bespoke dealings at our hotels. Our hospitality principles are grounded in the authentic essence of Arabian hospitality. You will see it

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A l K h o z a m a M a n a g e m e n t C o m p a n y e x p a n d s f o o t p r i n t i n t o UA E

Commenting on the relationship Al Habib stated: “Over the years, we have committed to offering our diners and guests in the Kingdom unparalleled dining experiences. A number of our restaurants in the Kingdom are consistently rated among the top 20 in the country. In Saudi Arabia, we are witnessing a burgeoning fine-dining culture. Both residents and visitors have more refined tastes and discerning dining expectations.”

with both local or international guests, hospitality grounded in the traditions of the company’s roots creates a richer experience for the guest – it is more memorable, therefore appreciated more” explained Hatata Vice.

He added: “With the opening of our regional office we are ripening our offering in tandem with our guest needs. Amplifying personalisation, simplification and seamless experience.”

He added: “Hakkasan Group excels in creating dining experiences that are unmatched. We look forward to working together to cater to this segment and introduce to the market a new level of excellence in dining unprecedented in the Kingdom.”

HAKKASAN GROUP At the same time, Al Khozama Management Company has confirmed it is working with the global hospitality company Hakkasan Group to open five new restaurants in the Kingdom, including Hakkasan, Yauatcha and Sato No Hana, in the next five years.

This move marks Hakkasan Group’s first step into Saudi Arabia.

Neil Moffitt, chief executive of Hakkasan Group, said: “Saudi Arabia has a flourishing restaurant sector and is an ideal location for the Group to open our restaurant brands Hakkasan, Yauatcha and Sato No Hana. With a dynamic economy and growing numbers of tourists visiting Saudi Arabia, we are excited about bringing a new and fresh dining experience for both locals and the global customer coming to the region.”

To celebrate this milestone and the strategic relationship between the two businesses, the agreement was signed by Abdulaziz Al Habib, president of Al Khozama Management Company, and Neil Moffitt, chief executive, Hakkasan Group, at a ceremony held at the Al Faisaliah Tower.

He concluded: “Importantly, this partnership builds on our global expansion strategy by rounding out our portfolio in the Middle East, where we already have a presence in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, and soon to be in Bahrain.”

MORE INFORMATION Al Khozama Management Company seeks to achieve excellence in the development and management of owned assets and in the operation of third party owned properties in hospitality, commercial, retail and residential sectors.

The company seeks to create an environment in which all stakeholders can thrive, while delighting people with unrivalled surroundings and experiences.

Find out more at www.alkhozama.com or head over to Stand HC0250 at Arabian Travel Market 2017.

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ABU DUBAI AIRPORTS PREPARES TO WELCOME THE MIDFIELD TERMINAL COMPLEX With Abu Dhabi seeing exponential growth in its aviation sector, the emirate is currently in the midst of building one of the most advanced airport facilities anywhere on earth – the Midfield Terminal Complex. Here we find out more about this gigantic development ahead of its planned opening in 2019.

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Last year some 24.5 million passengers used Abu Dhabi International Airport as their origin, destination or transit point for international or domestic flights, representing an increase of 5.1 per cent on the previous year. This growth is expected to continue, with passenger numbers forecast to reach over 45 million passengers a year by 2025.

In order to meet this demand, and contribute to the long-term success of the emirate’s aviation sector, Abu Dhabi Airports is investing D19 billion in the Midfield Terminal Complex.

This project is designed to serve as the primary gateway for the national carrier, Etihad Airways, and its codeshare and equity partners. It is being constructed between the airport’s two runways, allowing for the shortest possible journey from runway to parking stand. The new terminal will include passenger and cargo facilities, duty free shops, restaurants and a transit hotel.

Together with the existing terminals at AUH, the MTC will cater to the increasing number of passengers that visit Abu Dhabi each year.

At 742,000 square meters, the Midfield Terminal Building will be one of the largest buildings in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It will also be among the most architecturally impressive, environmentally friendly and innovative structures in the region. Visible from a distance of more than 1.5 kilometres, the MTB will include 35,000 square meters of retail and food and beverage outlets. It will have four piers, the longest of which stretches over 550 meters, housing 65 aircraft stands.

The piers are being constructed with 13,300 metric tons of steel. The curtain walling that surrounds the overall structure will consist of 115,000 square meters of glass, while the roof is made up of 275,000 square meters of aluminium.

Sustainability is at the core of the MTB. It was designed to achieve a considerable reduction in annual energy consumption through its climate responsive building form and façade, which will feature high performance low-e double glazing to reduce solar gain, and low U-values specified for the walls and roof to minimise heat gain. Substantial energy demand reductions will also be achieved through the use of a highly efficient lighting system, and an adaptive and effectively controlled HVAC system.

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ALL HANDS

“This will be an extraordinary terminal with innovation and sustainability at its core, and it requires continuous collaboration between all those involved to ensure its successful delivery.

As the project develops, Abu Dhabi Airports’ chairman Awaidha Murshed Al Marar recently hosted a delegation of all stakeholders to a workshop and dinner entitled All Hands.

The event was designed to strengthen relationships and coordination between Abu Dhabi Airports and all related entities, as well as to review latest progress and plans for the project.

“I am fully confident that we will all work hand in hand towards our common goal of completing the new gateway to our capital city and to our great nation.”

He continued: “The cooperation between all entities is tangible when looking at the success of operations at Abu Dhabi International Airport today, even though it has already exerted its current capacity.

The group, which included representatives from Etihad Airways, the general authority for the security of ports, borders, and free zones, airport police, customs, immigration, the GCAA and other stakeholders and partners, met to review roles and responsibilities, discuss challenges and solutions, and demonstrate everyone’s commitment towards delivering this project to receive its first plane in 2019.

“We are confident that this level of cooperation will continue as we work as one team towards completing this project. The MTC is one of the key infrastructure projects currently under construction in Abu Dhabi and fully supports the economic diversification that we all are aiming for, as outlined in the emirate’s 2030 Vision.”

The workshop was divided into three key sessions covering the current status of the MTC project, identifying obstacles and challenges, and how to turn challenges into opportunities and design solutions to overcome obstacles. At the end of the workshop, teams walked out with recommendations and plans, which will be implemented as a one team approach.

Chairman Awaidha Murshed Al Marar praised the suggested recommendations and solutions at the end of the workshop, commenting: “These recommendations will be implemented as soon as possible, and similar meetings will be organized regularly, to provide opportunities for reviewing what has been accomplished by the team, and discuss work progress.”

Chairman Awaidha Murshed Al Marar commented: “By having everyone together at this evening, we align our efforts towards completing the construction and delivery works at the Midfield Terminal, enabling the start of operations from this iconic building in 2019.

MORE INFORMATION To find out more about the Midfield Terminal Complex in Abu Dhabi head over to the official website at www.adac.ae/english/ mtp or Abu Dhabi Airports Company here at Arabian Travel Market on Stand ME2115.

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CULTURAL TOURISM IN ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA

With the World Travel Awards set to visit St. Petersburg in September this year for the Europe Gala Ceremony, the Russian cultural capital is leveraging its artistic wonders to become a true global destination. Here we find out more.

The cultural capital of St. Petersburg is unrivalled by any city in Europe. The artistic collection housed at the State Hermitage includes more than three million works alone, a showcase of world culture through the centuries. The museum starts its history from the collections gained by Russian empress Catherine II in a private capacity, and traces the lineage of artistic endeavour to the present day. The main expositions of the State Hermitage occupy 365 halls in the main museum complex, situated in the historical centre of St. Petersburg. It is represented by six buildings, built in the XVIII-XIX centuries, the most significant one of which is the Winter Palace - the former emperor’s residence.

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The Hermitage collection includes paintings by Leonardo da Vinci and sculpture by Michelangelo, which can be found nowhere else in Russia, as well as the largest collection of Rembrandts outside of the Netherlands. It is calculated that, in order to view each of the museum’s exhibits for one minute each, visitors would need to spend eight years in the museum without sleep!

Equally impressive is the Kunstkamera, which has been the symbol of the Russian Academy of Sciences since the early 18th century. Founded by Peter the Great’s decree, the museum opened to the public in 1714. Located on the banks

C u l t u r a l t o u r i s m i n S t . Pe t e r s b u r g , R u s s i a

of the Neva in the centre of St. Petersburg, its purpose was to collect and examine natural and human curiosities and rarities. Today, its collections are among the most complete and interesting in the world, containing nearly one million artefacts and reflecting the diversity of traditional cultures in the old and new world.

Located to the north-east of the historic centre, next to the Tavricheskiy Garden, the Tauride Palace is one of the largest and most impressive in St. Petersburg. Nowadays the palace is home to the Inter-parliamentary Assembly of the Commonwealth of Independent States, and is not open for sightseeing. However, since 2010, the halls of the palace have been used to host Potemkin Evenings, concerts of 18th century music performed on authentic instruments by some of the best local ensembles.

The Tavricheskiy Palace was built between 1783 and 1789 by Ivan Starov, one of the leading court architects of the period, for Prince Grigory Potemkin, the close confidant and lover of Catherine the Great. The palace was built and named in honour of his key role in the annexation of the Crimea, for which he was awarded the title Prince of Tauris in reference to the Ancient Greek name for the region. Starov designed the palace in strict Palladian style, and its simple facades were in sharp contrast to the richly decorated interiors and the lavish lifestyle led by Potemkin when in St. Petersburg, as he threw a series of increasingly grand and expensive parties in an effort to shore up his waning influence.

Winter Palace, but in 1896-1897 it was relocated to the place where today the Palace Bridge is situated. The permanent iron drawbridge that now stands on the site was constructed in 19121916 by engineers A. Pshenitzkiy and R. Meltzer, with some of the wooden elements of bridge’s construction remaining unchanged till 1978. Palace Bridge is technically the most perfect one of all Neva’s bridges, with a unique mechanism allowing the lifting of the 700 ton bridge spans.

Perhaps most famous of all the sights in St. Petersburg is Alexander Column – built to honour the emperor Alexander I, who reigned from 1801-25. The monument is the focal point of Palace Square and celebrates the Russian victory in the war with Napoleon’s France. The column was designed by the French-born architect Auguste de Montferrand and was built between 1830 and 1834 with Swiss-born architect Antonio Adamini. The tallest of its kind in the world, it stands at 47.5 metres high and is topped with a statue of an angel holding a cross. The statue of the angel was designed by the Russian sculptor Boris Orlovsky, while the face of the angel bears great similarity to the face of Emperor Alexander I.

RELIGIOUS TOURISM For those interested in the religious history of Russia, the Kazan Cathedral is one of the largest cathedrals in St. Petersburg. It was built in 1801-1811 by the architect Andrey Voronikhin on the orders of Emperor Paul I who wanted the cathedral to resemble St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. The cathedral - one of the most venerated icons in Russia - is a monument to glory of Russian arms. The famous Russian Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, who won the most important campaign of 1812, was buried inside the Kazan Cathedral. In 1932-1991 it housed the Museum of the History of Religion and Atheism.

MORE INFORMATION

Of course, as a city of many islands, St. Petersburg is also famous for its bridges. The first pontoon bridge connected Admiralteyskiy and Vasilievsky Isles in 1856, directly in front of the

Find out more about visiting St. Petersburg at www.visit-petersburg.ru

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The Residence double bedroom.

That’s Flying Reimagined.

Stretch out on designer Italian bed linen in a double bed in The Residence, our three-room suite in the sky. After a restful sleep, wake up to breakfast in bed served by your personal Butler.

Then freshen up in your ensuite shower room before landing.

You’re not dreaming, you’re in The Residence.

F E AT U R E

ETIHAD SOARS SKYWARD IN 2016 Etihad Airways delivered another year of sustained growth in 2016, helped by new aircraft, additional frequencies and the introduction of further world-class products.

Etihad carried a record 18.5 million guests during 2016, up six per cent on 2015. The airline was also part of the evolution of Etihad Aviation Group, a wider aviation and tourism business which now also includes Etihad Airways Engineering; Airline Equity Partners; Etihad Airport Services and Hala Group.

The formation of Etihad Aviation Group was announced in May 2016.

During the year, Etihad Airways operated more than 109,000 scheduled passenger and cargo flights spanning around 446 million kilometres and 112 destinations. Capacity, measured in

available seat kilometres, grew by nine per cent and passenger traffic, measured by revenue passenger kilometres, rose by eight per cent. The average load factor held steady at 79 per cent.

Etihad Airways’ fleet of 119 aircraft is one of the youngest and most environmentally-friendly in the industry, with an average age of six years. During the year, the airline took delivery of ten aircraft: three Airbus A380s, five Boeing 787s and two Boeing 777-200 cargo freighters. An additional 12 aircraft are set for delivery in 2017, including nine Boeing 787s, two Airbus A380s and one A330-200 freighter.

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Etihad holds the strongest credit rating in the aviation industry (A by Fitch), demonstrating the strength of its successful business model which is widely acknowledged by the international financial community.

James Hogan, president and chief executive of Etihad Aviation Group, said: “Last year saw sustained growth in a very tough business environment. This is where Etihad Airways’ superior products and services show their true value and where the strength of the EAG business model comes into effect through its diversity of businesses, cost effective synergies and global spread of risk.”

Etihad soars skyward in 2016

He added: “Most importantly, in 2016 we were able to introduce our new group structure, which positions this business for long-term growth and development.”

Last year was also a year of impressive accolades for Etihad Airways - the pinnacle being Etihad’s recognition as the World’s Leading Airline at the World Travel Awards for the eighth consecutive year

NEW ROUTES Etihad Airways launched Venice in Italy, Rabat in Morocco and Sabiha Gokcen in Turkey as new destinations in 2016. The much-admired Airbus A380 began serving Mumbai and Melbourne, and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner was deployed on new routes, including Perth, Shanghai, Johannesburg and Dusseldorf. The airline added a fifth daily flight on the Doha route, an extra daily flight to Cairo and Kozhikode, and increased frequencies to Dammam, Manila and Tehran.

Etihad Airways carried more than 76 per cent of the total passengers who travelled to and from Abu Dhabi International Airport in 2016. With the addition of the airline’s equity partners that operate flights into the UAE capital, the combined total rises to 86 per cent of passenger traffic at the airport.

The airline’s codeshare and equity partnerships delivered 5.5 million passengers onto Etihad Airways’ flights, an increase of nine per cent over the five million passengers in 2015.

The airline launched new codeshare agreements with Avianca Colombia, Avianca Brasil, Kulula, Precision Air and Montenegro Airlines. Etihad Airways’ existing codeshares with airberlin, Alitalia, Brussels Airlines, Flynas, Jet Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, and Virgin Australia were significantly expanded. Etihad Airways also launched new interline agreements with Lufthansa, Pegasus, Malindo

and LATAM. As a result, the airline now offers a combined passenger and cargo network of nearly 600 destinations through its 188 interline and 53 codeshare partnerships.

Etihad Airways’ equity partner network, including airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Alitalia, Jet Airways, Virgin Australia and Etihad Regional, represents the seventh largest global grouping of airlines. In 2016, the combined fleet of 705 aircraft carried 126.6 million guests.

Hogan added: “This will be another challenging year. We will continue to expand prudently and efficiently, reflecting the nature of the economic environment.

We remain optimistic and have every belief that our robust business model will succeed and, most importantly, stand the test of time.”

During the year, Etihad Guest marked its tenth anniversary and reached 4.7 million members.

HEAVY LIFTING During 2016, Etihad Cargo carried 592,700 tonnes, which was flat year-onyear. Etihad Cargo expanded its freighter services to several new markets, including Columbus Rickenbacker, Ohio in the US; East Midlands and London Stansted in the UK; Copenhagen; Brussels; Addis Ababa and Casablanca in Africa; Colombo; Muscat; and Zhengzhou in China.

This brings the number of freighter-only destinations to 15.

Strong growth was achieved within the group’s loyalty businesses with over three million new members joining the Etihad Guest, MilleMiglia (Alitalia), topbonus (airberlin) and JetPrivilege programmes, which now provide benefits to nearly 20 million members.

EMIRATISATION The Etihad Aviation Group workforce, as of December 31st, stood at 26,635 employees, representing 150 nationalities. The airline continued to prioritise its Emiratisation programme, and in November, celebrated the graduation of 310 future leaders from the Future Leaders Programmes, a strong indication of the company’s commitment to investing in its people.

There are currently more than 3,000 Emirati employees – 52 per cent of whom are women, including engineers and pilots.

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MORE INFORMATION Etihad Aviation Group is a diversified global aviation and travel group comprising five business divisions – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Airways Engineering, Etihad Airport Services, Hala Group and Airline Equity Partners.

The group has minority investments in seven airlines: airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Alitalia, Jet Airways, Virgin Australia, and Swiss-based Darwin Airline, trading as Etihad Regional.

Find out more at www.etihad.com or head over to Hall 2.2/202 here at ITB Berlin 2017.

breakingtravelnews.com

F E AT U R E

OMAN AIR SEES REMARKABLE GROWTH DURING 2016 Oman Air has published its annual report for 2016, reflecting the accomplishments of the company during the past year.

Reviewing the annual report on behalf of the board of Oman Air, Darwish Bin Ismail Bin Ali Al Balushi, chairman of the airline, highlighted that it had been a period of “remarkable growth” for the flag-carrier. He pointed out the fleet had expanded to 47 aircraft, while seat factors had gone up to 20 per cent. At the same time, Oman Air saw an increase in the number of passengers to 7.7 million, up 21 per cent year-on-year, while the Oman Air Flight Training Centre was also launched.

Darwish Bin Ismail Al Balushi said: “Last year was a year of both change and consolidation for Oman Air. Oman Air has continued its ambitious programme of expansion in 2016 with the introduction of four brand new Boeing 737-800s joining the Oman Air fleet.

“The carrier has operated B737s for many years and the aircraft provide the backbone of the airline’s long and medium haul fleet. We have continued to upgrade our Airbus fleet. The first Airbus 330 to benefit from a comprehensive retrofit landed at Muscat International Airport from Paris in October 2016. This reflects our commitment to continue to invest in our award winning on board experience.”

He added that the previous A330 interiors attracted enormous international acclaim when they were first unveiled in 2009 and the new A330 interiors surpass those high standards and customers are already delighted with the results.

With the addition of the new Boeing 737 – 800, Oman Air’s fleet stands at 47.

MORE INFORMATION To find out more about Oman Air head over to the official website at www.omanair.com or visit Stand ME2140 here at Arabian Travel Market.

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Oman Air sees remarkable grow th during 2016

Currently Oman Air’s fleet consists of four Boeing 787 Dreamliners, six Airbus 330300s, four Airbus 330-200s, five Boeing 737-900s, 23 Boeing 737-800, one Boeing 737-700 and four Embraer 175s. Three more Boeing 737 – 800s are scheduled to join the fleet and this year, Oman Air will be unveiling new B787-9 Dreamliners and revamping the existing Airbus fleet.

Oman Air is recognised as offer the World’s Leading Airline - Economy Class by voters at the World Travel Awards.

OPERATIONAL RESULTS Darwish Bin Ismail Al Balushi continued: “The results speak for themselves. The number of available seat kilometres grew to 24.8 billion, an increase of 20 per cent. Oman Air’s capacity has increased significantly over the last year recording an increase in flight movements by more than 4000 flights to nearly 51,952 flights, an increase of nine per cent compared with

recent additions to the network include Manila, Jakarta, Singapore, Goa, Dhaka and Mashhad. The introduction of Guangzhou, China and Najaf, Iraq were the other major milestones of 2016. We also announced the start of our second destination in the UK with the new Muscat to Manchester daily service in May 2017.”

2015. The number of round trips Oman Air offered in 2016 rose to 30,978 trips from the previous year’s 28,270 trips.”

As a result of the increased capacity, Oman Air experienced a huge 21 per cent increase in passenger numbers with over 7.7 million passengers travelling with the airline in 2016, compared to 6.4 million passengers in 2015. While the fluctuating oil prices continue to affect the global economic outlook in general negatively, Oman Air’s revenues have increased during 2016 to OMR 472 million, an increase of one per cent on 2015.

The carrier is also working toward including more Omanis in its workforce.

Darwish Bin Ismail Al Balushi continued: “Oman Air is continuing with its broad human resources strategy of appreciating the skills, abilities, commitment and contributions of all staff, regardless of their backgrounds. The company has worked hard to increase the employment of Omani nationals and now over two thirds of the workforce originates from Oman.

Darwish Bin Ismail Al Balushi added that among the other developments in 2016 was the introduction of a double daily service to London Heathrow, while the carrier also went from five times a week to daily flights to Paris and increased frequencies on other European routes.

Last year also saw a move to put Oman Air at the forefront of pilot and cabin crew training with the launch of

Darwish Bin Ismail Al Balushi added: “The other

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the Oman Air Flight Training Centre in October. It is a state-of-the-art facility that is the first of its kind in the Sultanate of Oman.

Darwish Bin Ismail Al Balushi noted that Oman Air continues to excel in other areas of the business.

The amount of cargo that Oman Air handled in 2016 increased from 138,972 tonnes to approaching 159,618 tonnes.

He explained: “Our Catering Services Division has won several new contracts including a three and a half year contract with British Airways. In the past year Oman Air Catering Services produced an extra one million meals than were originally budgeted for, increasing productivity without compromising on quality.

Extensive work continues to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of every area of the business. Oman Air’s engineering division is preparing to move to a much bigger facility, productivity can only increase.”

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F E AT U R E

RECORD PASSENGER NUMBERS FOR FLYDUBAI DURING FIFTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR OF GROWTH flydubai has declared a profit of AED31.6 million for the full-year 2016, while reporting total revenue of AED5 billion, an increase of 2.4 per cent compared to the previous year.

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Record passenger numbers for f lydubai during fifth consecutive year of grow th

With this triple deployment, Emirates will be the first airline to operate scheduled A380 services in Latin America as well as to North Africa. In addition, the Emirates A380 service to Sao Paulo marks the airline’s tenth year of operations in Brazil, which began with daily flights between Dubai and Sao Paulo in October 2007.

Emirates had previously served Narita with an A380. The reintroduction of this service and increase in capacity is in response to the healthy demand for travel between Japan and Dubai.

Travellers and fans of the highly popular Emirates A380 will now have more opportunities to enjoy this iconic aircraft as Emirates now flies the A380 to 49 destinations on six continents. Emirates flight EK318 set off for Narita, Japan. This was followed by flight EK751 to Casablanca, and then flight EK261 to Sao Paulo.

On all three routes, the A380 replaces an existing Boeing 777 service.

The plane’s eye-catching customised decal features some of the club’s world-class players: Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Sergio Ramos, Karim Benzema and Marcelo. Visible from both sides of the plane, the bespoke decal covers an area of more than 500m2 and shows the five players of the first team in action.

Emirates’ spacious A380 aircraft can transport up to 515 passengers per flight, and eight tonnes of cargo. All of the services launched today offer three classes of travel – First, Business and Economy, with generous free baggage allowance.

On Emirates’ A380s, First Class passengers can look forward to quiet luxury in the comfort of their private suites and enjoy the industry’s only on-board Shower Spa. First Class and Business Class passengers can socialise and sample canapés and cocktails at the popular on-board lounge and passengers in all classes can enjoy the gourmet cuisine, Emirates’ in-flight entertainment, ice, with more than 2,500 channels and Wi-Fi, which is available on all of Emirates’ A380s.

Besides Madrid, the Real Madrid A380 is expected to fly to a majority of Emirates A380 destinations worldwide, giving Real Madrid fans around the world a chance to snap a picture of the aircraft as it makes its way around the globe. This includes the US where the team will be travelling this summer.

Emirates is the Official Main Sponsor of Real Madrid since 2013 with Fly Emirates branding prominently displayed on the players’ kits. Real Madrid has one of the largest fan base globally and Emirates is able to connect with fans worldwide through their shared passion for football and travel.

Emirates’ premium on-board experience is complemented by on-the-ground comfort with a network of 40 dedicated Emirates Lounges located within major airports around the globe - all designed with the same attention to detail and exceptional service.

MORE INFORMATION

Emirates is the world’s largest operator of A380s, with 94 currently in its fleet and a further 48 on order. Since 2008, the airline has carried over 65 million passengers on its flagship aircraft.

The Emirates story started in 1985 when the carrier launched operations with just two aircraft. Today, the airline fly the world’s biggest fleets of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, offering customers the comforts of the latest and most efficient wide-body aircraft in the skies.

REAL MADRID Emirates has also recently debuted the new Real Madrid decal on its iconic A380. Making its first touchdown at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas airport, the Emirates A380 has been emblazoned with the image of Real Madrid footballing giants.

Find out more at www.emirates.com or head over to Stand ME3310 here at Arabian Travel Market.

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F E AT U R E

QATAR AIRWAYS REVEALS CUSTOMISABLE QSUITE TO BUSINESS CLASS PASSENGERS Qatar Airways has revealed it highly anticipated and revolutionary new Business Class experience, ushering in a neverbefore-seen standard in Business Class travel.

MORE INFORMATION Qatar Airways, the national carrier of the State of Qatar is celebrating 20 years of Going Places Together with travellers across its more than 150 business and leisure destinations. The world’s fast growing airline will add a number of exciting new destinations to its growing network in 2017, including Dublin, Nice, Skopje and many more, flying passengers on board its modern fleet of 194 aircraft.

Find out more at www.qatarairways.com or visit Stand ME1540 here at Arabian Travel Market 2017.

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Qatar Air ways reveals customisable QSuite to business class passengerS

The carrier has launched the customisable private suites, named QSuite, and introduced a host of firsts to Premium Class travel, reshaping expectations for global business travellers.

The new seat design was first unveiled by Qatar Airways chief executive, Akbar Al Baker, and has been two years in the making.

QSuite features the industry’s first-ever double bed available in Business Class, with privacy panels that stow away, allowing passengers in adjoining seats to create their own private room. Adjustable panels and movable TV monitors on the centre four seats allows colleagues, friends or families travelling together to transform their space into a private suite, allowing them to work, dine and socialise together. These new features provide the ultimate customisable travel experience that enables passengers to create an environment that suits their own unique needs.

ing a menu that offers a host of new dining choices.

Al Baker said: “I am proud to unveil the future of Premium travel with our new QSuite Business Class. Our unique and patented design is a world first in many ways and challenges industry norms by offering passengers more privacy, more choice and more personalisation. With these innovations, Qatar Airways has revolutionised the way we serve our Business Class travellers enabling our passengers to enjoy a First Class experience in Business Class.”

In addition to the existing decadent ‘dine on demand’ service, the new Business Class menu will now offer a selection of snack ‘sharing dishes’ available throughout the flight, allowing travellers to turn dining at 35,000 feet into a social experience. A wake-up Express Breakfast will also be available for those who choose to sleep a little longer by making the most of the ‘Do Not Disturb’ option available on the door of their private QSuite.

He added: “This is truly Business Class as never seen before and is entirely in keeping with our Premium product and service philosophy. On Qatar Airways, you choose when you dine, and the menu options are varied, with something for everyone. You choose when you rest, and when you want entertainment, we offer more choices than any other airline. It only makes sense to give you the choice to make your own cabin-within-a-cabin, creating double QSuites or quadrants.”

The recently announced partnership with The White Company to provide exclusively-designed cotton Business Class sleeper suits and luggage brand BRIC’S to provide bespoke new amenity kits featuring products from Italy’s Castello Monte Vibiano Vecchio complete the refreshed and enhanced experience awaiting Qatar Airways’ Business Class passengers on board.

Each seat is crafted with thoughtful and luxurious details such as hand-stitched Italian leather and satin rose gold finishing, bringing an unprecedented level of luxury, privacy and style to Qatar Airways’ Business Class offering. To further complement the customisable on-board seating experience that passengers will now enjoy, Qatar Airways is also launching a new food and beverage concept, introduc-

Qatar Airways also launched a completely new next-generation user interface of Oryx One, its award-winning inflight entertainment platform. Oryx One’s interface has been redesigned to make it even easier to surf content and choose from up to 3,000 entertainment options – the most of any airline. The next-generation user interface has evolved from the rapidly maturing online media sector, pre-

ORYX ONE

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senting movies, games and a special children’s menu in a format that is immediately familiar yet revolutionary for on-board passengers.

Al Baker also announced that starting this summer, Qatar Airways will begin offering best-in-class inflight connectivity, with more announcements to come in the weeks and months ahead. This extensive and ground-breaking refresh comes as the airline celebrates its 20th year of operations marking two decades of growth, industry leadership and innovation.

The new QSuite concept will be retrofitted on to the existing Qatar Airways fleet starting from June 2017, at an estimated rate of one aircraft a month.

Known for introducing industry firsts, Qatar Airways is the national carrier of the State of Qatar, and is one of the fastest growing airlines operating one of the youngest fleets in the world. Qatar Airways has a modern fleet of 194 aircraft flying to more than 150 key business and leisure destinations across six continents.

breakingtravelnews.com

F E AT U R E

EMIRATES LAUNCHES THREE NEW A380 ROUTES ON SINGLE DAY Emirates has celebrated the launch of three A380 destinations in a single day, bringing its flagship three-class double-decker aircraft from Dubai to Tokyo-Narita, Casablanca and Sao Paulo.

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Emirates launches three new A380 routes on single day

MORE INFORMATION The Emirates story started in 1985 when the carrier launched operations with just two aircraft. Today, the airline fly the world’s biggest fleets of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, offering customers the comforts of the latest and most efficient wide-body aircraft in the skies.

Find out more at www.emirates.com or head over to Stand ME3310 here at Arabian Travel Market.

globe - all designed with the same attention to detail and exceptional service.

With this triple deployment, Emirates will be the first airline to operate scheduled A380 services in Latin America as well as to North Africa. In addition, the Emirates A380 service to Sao Paulo marks the airline’s tenth year of operations in Brazil, which began with daily flights between Dubai and Sao Paulo in October 2007.

Emirates is the world’s largest operator of A380s, with 94 currently in its fleet and a further 48 on order. Since 2008, the airline has carried over 65 million passengers on its flagship aircraft.

Emirates had previously served Narita with an A380. The reintroduction of this service and increase in capacity is in response to the healthy demand for travel between Japan and Dubai.

REAL MADRID Emirates has also recently debuted the new Real Madrid decal on its iconic A380. Making its first touchdown at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas airport, the Emirates A380 has been emblazoned with the image of Real Madrid footballing giants.

Travellers and fans of the highly popular Emirates A380 will now have more opportunities to enjoy this iconic aircraft as Emirates now flies the A380 to 49 destinations on six continents. Emirates flight EK318 set off for Narita, Japan. This was followed by flight EK751 to Casablanca, and then flight EK261 to Sao Paulo.

The plane’s eye-catching customised decal features some of the club’s world-class players: Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Sergio Ramos, Karim Benzema and Marcelo. Visible from both sides of the plane, the bespoke decal covers an area of more than 500m2 and shows the five players of the first team in action.

On all three routes, the A380 replaces an existing Boeing 777 service.

Emirates’ spacious A380 aircraft can transport up to 515 passengers per flight, and eight tonnes of cargo. All of the services launched today offer three classes of travel – First, Business and Economy, with generous free baggage allowance.

Besides Madrid, the Real Madrid A380 is expected to fly to a majority of Emirates A380 destinations worldwide, giving Real Madrid fans around the world a chance to snap a picture of the aircraft as it makes its way around the globe. This includes the US where the team will be travelling this summer.

On Emirates’ A380s, First Class passengers can look forward to quiet luxury in the comfort of their private suites and enjoy the industry’s only on-board Shower Spa. First Class and Business Class passengers can socialise and sample canapés and cocktails at the popular on-board lounge and passengers in all classes can enjoy the gourmet cuisine, Emirates’ in-flight entertainment, ice, with more than 2,500 channels and Wi-Fi, which is available on all of Emirates’ A380s.

Emirates is the Official Main Sponsor of Real Madrid since 2013 with Fly Emirates branding prominently displayed on the players’ kits. Real Madrid has one of the largest fan base globally and Emirates is able to connect with fans worldwide through their shared passion for football and travel.

Emirates’ premium on-board experience is complemented by on-the-ground comfort with a network of 40 dedicated Emirates Lounges located within major airports around the

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F E AT U R E

Saudi Arabian Airlines, or Saudia, the national airline of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, will showcase its latest First Suite here at Arabian Travel Market 2017.

SAUDIA TO SHOWCASE FIRST SUITE AT ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET

For the first time, Saudia will also debut its First Suite First Class suite at the Arabian Travel market. The new product was launched late last year and is featured on the airline’s Boeing 777300ER aircraft.

This year the airline will feature a new 200 square meter, two-storey exhibition stand showcasing new brand designs, including interactive features and live demonstrations from Saudia’s Chef on Board service. A new a la carte café concept recently introduced in Saudia’s Al Fursan lounges will also be available, providing a fresh and modern service for guests.

Director general of Saudia, Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser commented: “Saudia has been a long-time participant at the Arabian Travel Market, which

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is an excellent platform to communicate the airline’s latest developments, including new products and services.”

He added: “The guest experience is a key focus area for the airline, in particular, introducing new products on-board and making travel more convenient through the introduction of the latest technology and applications.”

Saudia to showcase First Suite at Arabian Travel Market

The carrier has expanded its route network this year, recently adding two destinations: Multan (Pakistan) and Portsudan (Sudan) on April 1st and April 7th respectively.

Saudia’s route network covers 86 destinations across four continents and through its partnership with SkyTeam; it connects its guests to the entire alliance network of 1062 destinations in 177 countries.

SAUDIA MEDICAL SERVICES Saudia Medical Services, the healthcare provider of Saudi Arabian Airlines and its affiliated entities, announced earlier that it has obtained a license from the ministry of health to operate as a private healthcare services provider.

The ministry license marks a major milestone in the privatisation process of SMS whereby SMS has completed its corporatisation and is ready to join hands with a strategic partner through a sale of majority stake in SMS. Mohammad Bafaqeeh, managing director of Saudia Medical Services, commented: “This is an important step towards our goal of transforming SMS into a privately-managed world-class healthcare services provider. The privatisation of SMS is a key component of Saudia’s strategic plan SV2020 through which Saudia is contributing to Vision 2030, which calls for increasing the role of the private sector in providing services currently provided by the government.”

Prior to obtaining the ministry of health license, SMS appointed Jadwa Investment as the financial advisor to lead the privatisation execution plan including the development of a public private partnership framework.

Saudia Medical Services was established in 1979.

SMS is the main healthcare provider to Saudi Arabian Airlines and its affiliates’ employees, retirees and their eligible family members.

SMS is a full scale primary healthcare facility, providing a wide array of outpatient services to the group’s Jeddah-based beneficiaries.

In addition, SMS is a centre of excellence for aviation and occupational medicine, providing specialised services and regulatory examinations to the Group, and recently, other airline operators in Saudi Arabia.

SMS, through its 7,800 m2 facility located in Saudia City, in the heart of Jeddah, with 60 clinics, over 100 physicians and 150 nurses, serves over 450,000 outpatient visits on an annual basis. The ministry of health license will allow SMS to operate as a private and independent healthcare facility to serve, not only Saudia’s beneficiaries, but also Jeddah residents and visitors.

MORE INFORMATION Saudi Arabian Airlines started out in 1945 with a single twin-engine DC-3 (Dakota) HZ-AAX, given to King Abdul Aziz as a gift by the US president Franklin D. Roosevelt.

This was followed months later with the purchase of two more DC-3s, and these formed the nucleus of what in few years later was to become one of the world’s largest airlines.

Today Saudi Arabian Airlines has 129 aircraft, including the latest and most advanced wide-bodied jets presently available: B787-9, B777-268L, B777300ER, Airbus A320-200, Airbus A321, and Airbus A330-300.

Find out more at www. saudia.com or head over to Stand ME 4310 here at Arabian Travel Market.

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WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS

World Travel awards (WTa) honours the elite brands of the global travel industry and its Grand Tour is a search for the very best travel and tourism brands in the world.

Each year, WTA hosts a series of red-carpet gala ceremonies held in the world’s finest travel destinations, with winners progressing to the Grand Final at the end of the year.

WTA continues its Grand Tour throughout 2017 and beyond with a growing roster of red-carpet extravaganzas, including its inaugural ceremonies in Rwanda as well as the historic Russian city of St Petersburg.

This Special Edition gives the lowdown of all the forthcoming host destinations in 2017. We’ll uncover the hippest upcoming destinations, hotels and resorts – those exclusive spots that are driving the travel industry to new heights.

World Travel aWards asIa & aUsTralasIa 2017

World Travel aWards INdIaN oCeaN 2017

World Travel aWards laTIN aMerICa 2017

World Travel aWards CarIBBeaN & NorTH aMerICa 2017

World Travel aWards eUroPe 2017

World sKI aWards KITzBüHel 2017

World Travel aWards aFrICa 2017

World GolF aWards sPaIN 2017

World Travel aWards MIddle easT 2017

World sPa aWards vIeTNaM 2017

World Travel aWards GraNd FINal vIeTNaM 2017

WORLD TRAVE

2017

EL AWARDS

SHANGHAI

4 JUNe 2017 | GraNd KeMPINsKI HoTel sHaNGHaI | CHINa DESTINATION Shanghai, China Few cities in the world evoke so much history, glamour, mystique and exotic promise in name alone as Shanghai.

The city combines many cultures, with the traditions of the East blending with influences from the West. The city is emerging rapidly and in recent years a number of new buildings and aractions have been added, including the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China, which stands beside the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center.

Food is the hub of Chinese social life, and nowhere more is it exemplified than Shanghai. The mouth-watering restaurant scene is evolving by the minute, and includes over a thousand restaurants serving 16 different styles of Chinese food alone. Meanwhile the city has many colourful festivities, like the Shanghai Tourism Festival and Shanghai China International Art Festival.

VENUE Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai is situated in the heart of Shanghai’s financial district Lujiazui. Offering stunning views of the city’s gliering skyline, the hotel is perfectly located for both leisure and business visitors.

Guests can choose from a range of luxury rooms and suites and the hotel also provides four gourmet restaurants and three bars with incredible views of the city. There is an onsite health club which includes a spa, swimming pool and gym, and the city’s visitor aractions and shopping malls are also easily accessible from the hotel. www.kempinski.com/shanghaipudong

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS ASIA & AUSTRALASIA GALA CEREMONY2017

www.worldtravelawards.com

MALDIVES

8 JUlY 2017 | THe sUN aQUa vIlU reeF | soUTH NIlaNdHe aToll DESTINATION Maldives The Maldives is a tropical paradise where the sands are white as the smiles of the locals, where fish swim happily in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, where the weather is a dream, and the deep rays of the sun wait to engulf you their arms.

In ancient times, the shores of the Maldives welcomed lost travellers. Still welcoming, these shores remain, providing a tranquil haven for visitors.

VENUE The Sun Aqua Vilu Reef The five star Sun Aqua Vilu Reef boasts a stunning seing as the single occupant of Meedhuffushi Island in the Maldives' South Nilandhe Atoll with pristine beaches and direct access to a crystal clear lagoon. The resort has an impressive array of amenities including 101 luxurious rooms and villas and restaurants and bars serving a range of international cuisine. Guests at the resort can enjoy a variety of sports and activities, with tennis, beach volleyball and snooker all available as well as a swimming pool and the PADI Gold Palm diving centre for beginners and experts. The Sun Spa allows guests to relax with a range of soothing treatments in beautiful surroundings.

Ibrahim Nasir International Airport is approximately 145km to the north resort (airport transfer time is 35 minutes by seaplane from Malé). hp://www.sunaqua.com/vilureef/

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS INDIAN OCEAN GALA CEREMONY2017

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RIVIERA MAYA 9 sePTeMBer 2017 | Hard roCK HoTel rIvIera MaYa | MeXICo DESTINATION Riviera Maya, Mexico The Riviera Maya is a stretch of Caribbean coastline on Mexico's north-eastern Yucatán Peninsula. From Cancun to the archaeological site Tulum, a sequence of natural formations have given the Riviera Maya an appeal that aracts growing visitor numbers every year. It is a privileged place of natural wonders, including beaches of white sand lapped by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, impressive tropical forests, underground rivers and countless ancient archaeological sites of the great Mayan civilization.

VENUE Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya Located by the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, the allinclusive Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya offers the ultimate vacation for guests of all ages with both the adults-only and family-friendly resort experiences.

Just a few miles offshore lies the island of Cozumel, home to outstanding diving in the world's second-largest barrier reef, as well as one of the largest underground cave systems ever explored.

The 1,264 lavishly-appointed guestrooms boast balconies, terrace views or sky terrace options with picturesque views and hydro tubs in each room. The ultimate crowdpleaser is Bret Michaels Rock Star Suite, the largest celebrity-branded Rock Star Suite in the Hard Rock International collection.

This is where luxury meets satisfaction on a stage of stunning tropical views, a private beach, and exclusive saltwater snorkelling areas. It’s all capped off with an inviting traditional design, legendary Hard Rock hospitality, and undeniable excess at every turn.

Visit hrhrivieramaya.com or hrhallinclusive.com.

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS LATIN AMERICA GALA CEREMONY2017

www.worldtravelawards.com

TURKS & CAICOS 16 sePTeMBer 2017 | BeaCHes TUrKs & CaICos resorT vIllaGes & sPa DESTINATION Turks & Caicos Though just 90 minutes by plane from Miami, the paradise islands of Turks & Caicos have played a canny game in remaining beneath the tourism radar, meaning those that discover this tropical castaway will find deserted beaches and unspoilt coral reefs.

The most fabled stretch of oceanfront is Grace Bay with its powdery-white sands that sweep the north-eastern fringes of Providenciales. The beach gently slopes into the ocean, which reveals colours so vivid no postcard could do them justice.

Pleasures here are pure and simple. Spend your days on the beach, snorkelling and soaking up paradise. You might also be tempted to charter a private yacht and explore the many deserted islands. turksandcaicostourism.com

VENUE Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa Located in the incredible Grace Bay, Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa is a Caribbean wonderland of adventure and fine living. Here, there are almost enough pools for each day of the week, and the last day is reserved for the largest pool of all, the clear turquoise sea bordered by a 12-mile stretch of glorious beach.

Beaches Turks & Caicos is home to pastel pink bungalows nestled in tropical gardens resplendent with graceful palms. Made up of four distinct areas, this multi-faceted paradise offers the seaside garden paradise of the Caribbean Village, the sophisticated style of the French Village, the monumental surroundings of the Italian Village, along with the Key West Village which features three and four-bedroom villas. beaches.com

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS CARIBBEAN & NORTH AMERICA GALA CEREMONY 2017

www.worldtravelawards.com

ST. PETERSBURG 30 sePTeMBer 2017 | rUssIa DESTINATION St. Petersburg The majestic city of St. Petersburg is gearing up to welcome WTA to Russia for the first time with the Europe Gala Ceremony on 30th September 2017. Having itself been recognised as “Europe’s Leading Destination” and “World’s Leading Cultural City Destination” in 2016 by WTA voters, the capital of culture will take hosting responsibilities of the gliering red carpet gala ceremony.

World Travel Awards President Graham Cooke said: “It will be an honour for World Travel Awards to visit for Russia for the first time in 2017. St. Petersburg is one of the most famous cities in the world and this is a fantastic opportunity for the city to take its rightful place as a top rank tourism destination."

A global cultural centre, St. Petersburg is more than just home to the Hermitage Museum and the Kirov Ballet. With an exceptionally rich history, centuries-old traditions and a bright future, this fascinating destination is built on more than 45 islands and has been modelled in the French style by some of the world’s great architects.

St. Petersburg Commiee for Tourism Development Chairman, Andrey Mushkarev, said: “We will be honoured to host the leading European tourism industry professionals in St. Petersburg in 2017.

“We are confident this event will be one of the best in the history of the World Travel Awards and we are pleased to invite everyone to the Europe Gala Ceremony in St. Petersburg; a city that is the pride not only of Russia and Europe, but of the whole world.”

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS EUROPE GALA CEREMONY 2017

www.worldtravelawards.com

RWANDA

11 oCToBer 2017 | radIssoN BlU HoTel & CoNveNTIoN CeNTre, KIGalI DESTINATION Rwanda The heart of Africa, remarkable Rwanda is a pristine wilderness of unrivalled biodiversity, including virgin rainforests, beautiful mountains and thundering waterfalls.

The thriving capital of Kigali is nestled along picturesque hilltops and renowned for its cleanliness, warm hospitality, and its thriving cultural and culinary scene.

Just a two-hour drive away is Volcano National Park – home to an estimated half of the world’s population of wild mountain gorillas. The dramatic landscape also offers thrilling hiking and visits to the fascinating golden monkeys. To experience a classic African safari head to the beautiful Akagera National Park. Meanwhile the Nyungwe National Park is an untouched natural rainforest, filled with biodiversity and home to chimpanzees. www.rwandatourism.com

VENUE Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali Situated just 5km from Rwanda's thriving capital, Kigali, and the Kigali International Airport (KGL), the five star Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre features the first convention centre in Rwanda with room for up to 5,000 delegates.

The hotel's plush 292 rooms and suites pamper guests: expect private balconies, deep soaking tubs, flat-screen satellite televisions and complimentary high-speed, wireless Internet. Other amenities include a 24-hour health club, dedicated concierge team, swimming pool, tennis court and a total of 18 meeting rooms – the standout of which is the state-of-the-art auditorium that can hold up to 2,600 guests for weddings or professional business meetings. hps://www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-kigali

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS AFRICA GALA CEREMONY 2017

www.worldtravelawards.com

DUBAI

29 oCToBer 2017 | arMaNI HoTel dUBaI Many theories have been proposed as to the origin of the word "Dubai". One theory suggests the word was used to describe the souq, which was similar to the souq in Ba.[19] Another theory states that the name came from a word meaning "money", as people from Dubai were commonly believed to be rich due to the thriving trading center of the location. An Arabic proverb says "Daba Dubai" meaning "They came with a lot of money."

According to Fedel Handhal, a scholar on the UAE's history and culture, the word Dubai may have come from the word daba (a past tense derivative of yadub, which means "to creep"), referring to the slow flow of Dubai Creek inland. The poet and scholar Ahmad Mohammad Obaid traces it to the same word, but to its alternative meaning of "baby locust" due to the abundant nature of locusts in the area before selement.

VENUE Armani Hotel Dubai The first word in luxury, the last and most of those in between, Armani Hotel Dubai – the debut hotel from fashion designer Giorgio Armani – occupies 10 of the 160 floors in the iconic Burj Khalifa.

Accommodation consists of 78 rooms and 82 suites, which come in 11 different sizes. Regardless of which room you plump for, expect floor-to-ceiling windows, bespoke furnishings, king-sized beds and iPads that control everything - from the 40-inch flat-screen televisions to the curtains, lighting and front door.

However what really sets the Armani Hotel Dubai apart is its dedication to personalisation: every guest is assigned a personal butler-concierge whose only goal is to ensure you are spoilt non-stop. www.armanihoteldubai.com

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS MIDDLE EAST GALA CEREMONY 2017

www.worldtravelawards.com

VIETNAM

10 deCeMBer 2017 | JW MarrIoTT PHU QUoC eMerald BaY | vIeTNaM DESTINATION Phu Quoc, Vietnam The pristine island of Phu Quoc is a hidden lush paradise off the southern coast of Vietnam. Surrounded by the warm turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, the island is renowned for its stunning beaches, unblemished habitat, relaxed atmosphere and world-class scuba diving and snorkelling.

Much of Phu Quoc Island is a National Park, providing ample opportunities for exploration and geing away from it all. Go kayaking in the bays, dive the reefs, trek through the lush rainforests, or just relax on the beach massage and dine on fresh seafood, Phu Quoc is the spot.

VENUE JW Marrio Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa Travel back to the bygone era of the early 20th century with Bill Bensley's whimsical design and exquisite detail in all 243 rooms, suites, and villas of the sumptuous JW Marrio Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa. Experience culinary wonder at the resort’s three restaurants and contemporary bars. Talented chefs source local fresh produce and the finest ingredients from the world market, masterfully preparing authentic flavors.

A wide range of enriching experiences are waiting to be explored, from cultural events, artisanal shopping experience, ultimate indulgence at Spa by JW, to water activities at the resort's private beachfront. www.marrio.com/pqcjw

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS GRAND FINAL GALA CEREMONY 2017

www.worldtravelawards.com

KITzBüHEL 17-19 NoveMBer 2017 | a-rosa KITzBüHel | aUsTrIa World Ski Awards™ is the only global initiative to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in ski tourism.

It's annual 3 day event is the only time that the international leaders of the industry come together to exchange local knowledge, innovations and principles of best practise on a global stage.

We are thrilled to announce that Kitzbühel – the home of legends – will once again host ski tourism's undisputed event of the year over 3 action packed days! A host of exclusive VIP networking events and once in a lifetime ski experiences will be built around the red carpet awards ceremony and the formal start of the 2017 winter ski season. www.worldskiawards.com

WORLD SKI AWARDS KITzBüHEL 2017

www.worldskiawards.com

SPAIN

23-26 NoveMBer 2017 | la MaNGa ClUB | MUrCIa | sPaIN DESTINATION La Manga, Murcia Located in the region of Murcia, La Manga and Cartagena offer a tourist everything they could possibly need to make it a top destination: • a city of unique cultural and historical interest • beautiful beaches • surrounded by the Mar Menor, Spain's largest salt-water lagoon and the Mediterranean Sea • Calblanque and Monte de las Cenizas Natural Park • Cabo de Palos, an internationally recognised marine reserve • the ancient city of Cartagena • a resort with average temperatures of 22ºC, the best climate in Spain with more than 300 days of sun a year.

VENUE La Manga Club La Manga Club is an exclusive vacation, sports and leisure resort located in a privileged seing bordered by natural parks and unspoilt beaches, offering luxury, leisure and sport with wonderful weather all year round.

Covering an area of 1400 acres (560 Ha.), the resort offers exclusive accommodations, first-class professional sports facilities and fine dining, ideal for those seeking exceptional tranquillity, security and privacy, coupled with superlative service.

Ever since it opened in 1972, La Manga Club has aracted holidaymakers and sports teams with its outstanding facilities, all designed to the highest international standards. www.lamangaclub.com

WORLD GOLF AWARDS SPAIN 2017

www.worldgolfawards.com

VIETNAM

9 deCeMBer 2017 | JW MarrIoTT PHU QUoC eMerald BaY | vIeTNaM DESTINATION Phu Quoc, Vietnam The pristine island of Phu Quoc is a hidden lush paradise off the southern coast of Vietnam. Surrounded by the warm turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, the island is renowned for its stunning beaches, unblemished habitat, relaxed atmosphere and world-class scuba diving and snorkelling.

Much of Phu Quoc Island is a National Park, providing ample opportunities for exploration and geing away from it all. Go kayaking in the bays, dive the reefs, trek through the lush rainforests, or just relax on the beach massage and dine on fresh seafood, Phu Quoc is the spot.

VENUE JW Marrio Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa Travel back to the bygone era of the early 20th century with Bill Bensley's whimsical design and exquisite detail in all 243 rooms, suites, and villas of the sumptuous JW Marrio Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa. Experience culinary wonder at the resort’s three restaurants and contemporary bars. Talented chefs source local fresh produce and the finest ingredients from the world market, masterfully preparing authentic flavors.

A wide range of enriching experiences are waiting to be explored, from cultural events, artisanal shopping experience, ultimate indulgence at Spa by JW, to water activities at the resort's private beachfront. www.marrio.com/pqcjw

WORLD SPA AWARDS VIETNAM 2017

www.worldspaawards.com

The latest spa tourism news on the most significant developments in the wellness and spa tourism industry.

Find stunning photos, videos and interactive discussions with our group members.

www.spatravelnews.com

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