ATM 2019 DAY 4

Part of

DAY 4 WED 01 MAY

Discover Expo 2020 Hall 3, Stand ME2520

A SINGLE ISLAND, AN OCEAN OF EXPERIENCES.

ANANTARA SIR BANI YAS ISLAND RESORTS

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com

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WARNER BROS. WORLD™ ABU DHABI Get ready for a one-of-a-kind experience at the world’s first ever Warner Bros. branded indoor theme park, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi.

Prepare to be transported to six truly IMMERSIVE LANDS. Experience 29 state-of-the-art EXHILARATING RIDES, interactive family-friendly attractions, unique LIVE ENTERTAINMENT and meet over 35 DC and Animation LIVE CHARACTERS. What’s more? Dig in at a variety of distinctive restaurants and shop to your heart’s content for exclusive merchandise and souvenirs at 22 authentically themed stores.

BUY YOUR TICKETS AT WBWORLD.COM TM & © DC., TM & © HB., TM & © TEC., TM & © WBEI. (s19)

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WELCOME TO YAS ISLAND ABU DHABI A world of opportunity awaits you at Yas Island! Located just 25 minutes to Abu Dhabi and only 45 minutes to Dubai, guests will discover worlds within worlds as they explore the various charms Yas Island has to offer.

TAKE A SWING AT YAS ISLAND’S CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE

On the western shores of the island, overlooking the sparkling Arabian Gulf, Yas Links is a picture perfect golf course.

TM & © DC., TM & © HB., TM & © WBEI. (s19)

FIND YOUR SPARK IN NEW THRILLS

Thrill. Adventure. Imagination. Curiosity. Joy. That’s what moments are made of at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. With 37 record-breaking rides & attractions for everyone in the family, your spark could be closer than you think.

WATER’S GREATEST PLAYGROUND

Splash into over 40 rides, slides and attractions at the Middle East’s leading waterpark and enjoy everything from the region’s first water cinema to the world’s longest suspended rollercoaster.

EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING YOU’VE IMAGINED!

EXPERIENCE THE ROAR OF FORMULA 1® RACING

GET A LITTLE SUN, SAND AND SURF

7 INTERNATIONAL HOTELS FOR GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

Enjoy a variety of premium motorsport events, or take part in a driving experience in Yas Marina Circuit’s own fleet.

White sands, crystal clear waters and natural mangrove surroundings make Yas Beach a serene escape from the bustle of the island.

BE WHERE IT’S ALL HAPPENING

LIVE ACTION AT YAS ISLAND’S

Abu Dhabi’s largest mall offers an exciting range of enhanced shopping concepts, more than 400 retailers, 20-screen VOX cinema and Fun Works.

OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT VENUE

Feel the buzz of the crowd at the city’s largest open-air, live venue from musical legends to cutting edge new talent.

Enjoy six uniquely themed lands, 29 stateof-the-art rides, interactive family-friendly attractions and unique live entertainment at the world’s first ever Warner Bros. branded indoor theme park.

YAS ISLAND From 3-5 stars, Yas Island’s range of internaHOTELS tionally branded hotels provides 2200 rooms

and more than 15 world clas restaurants for you to choose from.

DINE, DOCK, DISCOVER

‘The place to be’ with it its long corridors, sea views, 7 al-fresco restaurants and children’s play areas. Here, jet cruises and yachts take you to the tranquil sunset glow along the Abu Dhabi coast.

Meet us at Hall 2, Stand ME 2350 yasisland.ae

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4

Welcome

Evolving through technology

Contents 06 | News 16 | Show in pics

This year’s ATM highlights 18 | The pursuit of luxury

Ensuring a memorable experience

20 | Seminar schedule 26 | Great escapes

Off the beaten track destinations 28 | Destination profiles 30 | Vox pops 28

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Technology is set to transform every aspect of the travel industry and experts at this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM) shone a spotlight on the key factors driving this change.

Drawing to a close today, the 26th edition of ATM has demonstrated how technology will continue to shake up the travel industry with a host of key speakers highlighting the importance of digital innovation.

In an insightful session on day one, Senior VP & Chief Scientist of Sabre Corporation, Ben Vinod gave attendees a glimpse into the future of travel, sharing insight into how emerging technology is simplifying the travel experience.

He explained: “Technology helps to personalise the offering available to modern travellers by providing experiences based on the preferences of each segment. It also makes it possible for us to define long-term product strategies and work on industry-first applications we want to see in the marketplace.”

Other highlights from this year’s event included sessions that explored how immersive technology will change the visitor experience at megaevents; the role of social media

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in an ever-evolving industry; and important developments that will take the aviation sector to new heights.

Antoine Medawar, Senior Vice President Middle East & Africa, Amadeus, said: “As the traveller becomes more aware and inquisitive, investments in new elements that enhance the travel experience have to continue. With new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, 5G and blockchain, which have resulted in not just smart cities but also smart travel and smart travellers, all the focus now is on the way we see travel moving forward.”

While technology continues to shape the industry, it wasn’t only the speakers that highlighted new innovations.

Exhibitors at this year’s show also incorporated new technologies that are redefining the way businesses interact with clients, while also revealing what this means for the modern traveller.

A host of interactive technologies were displayed at various exhibitor stands, from the flight simulation experiences demonstrated by the big names in aviation – Emirates, Etihad and flydubai – to Sharjah’s natural

landscape brought to life on large digital screens.

Eng. Ziad Al Ghanmi, Manager Exhibitions and Sponsorship, Saudia, said: “We wanted our stand to mirror the customer journey and give visitors a glimpse into the experience on board. Through digital integration, we were able to showcase our latest features and products, which form a core part of the Saudia experience.”

Hospitality giants within the region also employed the use of technology to highlight what’s in store for the GCC in the years to come – with a special focus on next year when millions of visitors will attend Expo 2020 Dubai. The mega-event gets underway in October next year and will transform the landscape of the emirate.

As the curtains come down on another successful edition today, there is no doubt that new innovations discussed during insightful industry sessions will continue to revolutionise the market.

Many of the key concepts explored over the last few days will have been implemented by the time that ATM opens its doors to welcome the travel industry once again in 2020.

Sun 28 Apr - Wed 1 May 2019 The Arabian Travel Market show dailies are published on behalf of:

Gateway House 28 The Quadrant, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1DN, United Kingdom  +44 (0) 20 8271 2158,  arabian.helpline@reedexpo.co.uk  www.arabiantravelmarket.wtm.com The Arabian Travel Market logo, ATM and Hosted Buyer are trade marks of Reed Exhibitions Limited. RELX Group, RE symbol, Reed Exhibitions and Reed Travel Exhibitions are trade marks of RELX Group plc.

Published by: npimedia

PO Box 500573, Office 704, Executive Heights, Barsha Heights, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 4243640, Fax: +971 4 4327505 Email: enquiries@npimedia.com Web: www.npimedia.com

© Copyright The Arabian Travel Market show dailies are published by npimedia under licence from Reed Exhibitions Limited. The copyright in the design and content of the Arabian Travel Market show dailies is owned by npimedia, Reed Exhibitions Limited and its licensors. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, by any means – electronic, photocopying or otherwise - without the prior written permission of Reed Exhibitions Limited.

VISIT NPI AT STAND ME1350 All images from npimedia archive, Shutterstock Images or supplied

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Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Ubud - Bali • Indonesia

Come to the place where the magic stays Come and Visit Indonesia Pavilion at Arabian Travel Market - Dubai on April 28 - May 1, 2019 Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre

#AS2550

www.indonesia.travel indonesia.travel indonesia.travel @indtravel @indtravel

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News

TIME Hotels targets 20 properties by 2020 The UAE-based brand has also taken over operations at three properties in Dubai TIME Hotels Management has outlined ambitious plans to expand significantly within the Middle East and North Africa in the coming years.

The UAE-headquartered company has set out to grow its portfolio to 20 hotels by 2020, with four slated to open this year alone. These are TIME Opal Hotel Apartments, TIME Al Saadah Hotel Apartments, the TIME Nozha Aqua Park Hotel & Resort in Egypt and TIME Express Hotel Al Khan in Sharjah.

“Our growth strategy is to expand our footprint in the UAE with further openings in Dubai and Sharjah, as well as other properties across the region in Saudi Arabia and Egypt – taking our total portfolio to 20 properties by the end of 2020,” said TIME Hotels CEO, Mohamed Awadalla.

“TIME hotels have a great deal of experience across the UAE, and, more importantly, an in-depth understanding of how to add value and drive in business.”

The operator also recently took over operations of Dunes Hotel Apartments’ three properties in Dubai – an 83-key

property in Al Barsha, a 108-room hotel in Al Qusais and an 80-key property in Oud Metha – which have now been rebranded as TIME Hotels.

All three properties include studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, while the Al Barsha property also offers threebedroom penthouse apartments.

“TIME Hotels was appointed to manage all three Dunes Hotel Apartments in Dubai, because it is a dynamic and flexible hospitality company, with a wealth of experience, successfully running midscale properties in the UAE and across the Middle East, delivering a consistently high-quality hospitality experience,” added Abdallah Mohamed Jaber Al Harbi, Owner, Dunes Hotel Apartments.

“TIME Hotels also has a solid marketing proposition, it is excellent at cross-selling its properties and has exceptional relationships with GCC travel agents, as well as international tour operators.”

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Big Bus Tours launches global partner booking portal Big Bus Tours has officially launched its first-ever partner booking portal which will provide easy and efficient access to the company’s tours and attraction products.

Both online and offline partners worldwide can sign up directly on the platform for instant access to products at wholesale rates.

Customer facing in-destination partners including hotel concierges, ticket agencies, retail outlets and kiosks, as well as travel agencies, in any of the 22 cities Big Bus tours operates in, can also sell directly to customers at retail rates.

Big Bus Tours’ Executive VicePresident of Global Growth, Omid Golshan, said: “Big Bus Tours is the most efficient and convenient way to explore and discover a city; we want

that same efficiency and convenience to be the hallmarks of our partnerships and our B2B booking experience.

“As a result, we have developed a bespoke global partner booking platform to provide instant access to Big Bus Tours and attraction tickets to partners throughout the world.

“Partners in Big Bus destinations can access a broad range of products across their city more efficiently; while partners across the globe can book Big Bus Tours products in any Big Bus Tours destination.”

Following a testing phase, the portal is now live and already in use by thousands of partners across 17 cities around the world.

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Saudia introduces new routes and expands codeshare deal with Etihad Airways Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) is set to make a welcome return to Athens this summer after an 11-year hiatus, as well as introduce a new route into Morocco.

The Riyadh to Athens route, which will commence on June 5, will be operated by a two-class A320 and fly four times a week, while the new flight to Marrakesh will be served by a B787-9 Dreamliner and begin a day later.

It marks the airline’s second route into Morocco, with flights already available from Riyadh to Casablanca.

The airline also recently announced plans to expand its codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways following

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positive growth in traffic since their partnership began last November.

Jointly, Saudia and Etihad have flown more than 16,000 guests across the partnership, while phase two of the agreement will see the ‘SV’ code included on flights to Melbourne, Sydney, Moscow, Dusseldorf, Hong Kong, Kathmandu, Lagos, Minsk, Rabat, Astana and more cities in India.

Last year, Saudia flew more than 34 million passengers and re-introduced flights to Cochin in addition to three seasonal routes.

VISIT STAND ME4310, ME2310

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Discover Expo 2020 in Hall 3, Stand ME2520

OFFICIAL PREMIER PARTNERS

OFFICIAL PARTNERS

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News

Ascott lays strong foundations for regional growth Operator set to boost its Middle East portfolio to 5,000 units by the end of 2020

also made significant progress towards our commitment to strengthening our portfolio in Egypt and are negotiating deals to expand into Marsa Alam, Aswan and key cities in the country.”

The two new properties in Hurghada will be located in prime sea-facing locations and are set to provide a secluded sanctuary for couples and families.

Upgraded developments in Magawish and Makadi Bay have also been announced, with the signature properties boasting luxury chalets.

New openings this year include Ascott Corniche Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, Ascott 1 Oxford Street Accra, Ghana and Citadines Maslak Istanbul, Turkey. Last year it opened 27 properties spanning 4,200 units, including its first property in Africa, Kwarleyz Residence Accra.

“These are hugely exciting times for the group,” said Vincent Miccolis, Ascott’s Regional GM for Middle East, Africa and Turkey. “Not only are we establishing a presence in exciting new territories such as Africa, with some of the fastest growing economies globally, we are also continuing to build upon the firm foundations we have laid in the Gulf region.”

Singapore-based Ascott operates 58,000 units globally and has properties in 172 cities. The company has secured contracts for another 26 properties.

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Rixos Hotels confirms the opening of two new properties Rixos Hotels is expanding significantly in Egypt after confirming plans to open two new properties by the end of the year.

The operator is also currently in advanced negotiations as it looks to expand even further in the country with potential new properties in Sahl Hasheesh, Marsa Alam and Cairo.

“We are excited to announce the opening of the two ultra-all-inclusive Rixos resorts in Hurghada, both slated for a late 2019 opening,” said Erkan Yildirim, Board Member and Managing Director of Rixos Hotels Egypt.

“The brand has gained monumental momentum in the country and we have

The Ascott Limited outlined its plans to substantially grow throughout the Middle East, Africa and Turkey and is targeting 5,000 units regionally by the end of 2020.

Since launching operations in the region, the Ascott portfolio has grown significantly with 12 existing properties in operation across 11 cities in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Bahrain, Oman and Ghana.

Ascott currently has 11 properties under development throughout the region, six of which are scheduled to open in Saudi Arabia, a market it only entered in 2015, while the remainder are earmarked for the UAE, Turkey, Ghana and Oman.

ATM to launch inaugural Middle East edition of Travel Forward in 2020

Event will showcase next-gen industry innovations and will form part of Arabian Travel Week

Danielle Curtis

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Travel, tourism and hospitality professionals from around the world will have an opportunity to explore the next generation of industry innovations at the Middle East’s first-ever edition of Travel Forward, which will take place alongside Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2020.

The travel and hospitality innovation event will connect buyers and suppliers from across the Middle East and beyond, enabling delegates to try the latest industry tools and take advantage of technologies that could boost efficiency and improve the customer experience.

The event will cover the full spectrum of industry tools, from emerging innovations such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and machine learning, to existing systems such as booking engines, business management software and end-user technology.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, ATM, said: “In today’s ultra-competitive travel, tourism and hospitality markets, the effective implementation of innovative technologies is essential to the longterm success of any business. By identifying the right tools to meet their needs, industry professionals can give themselves a competitive edge.

“That is why events such as Travel Forward are so important to our sector’s future. By bringing together buyers and suppliers, and facilitating face-to-face interactions, the show will make it easier for participants to identify and test innovative technologies and applications that could help to achieve their long-term goals.”

Travel Forward will form part of next year’s Arabian Travel Week, an umbrella brand comprising several

co-located shows including Arabian Travel Market 2020; ATM Holiday Shopper; CONNECT Middle East, India and Africa; and ILTM Arabia.

The original edition of Travel Forward was launched during World Travel Market 2018 in London.

Based on the success of the event to date, organiser Reed Travel Exhibitions rolled out a Latin America edition earlier this year, and plans to introduce both Middle East and South Africa editions in 2020.

Travel Forward will include a dedicated product theatre, enabling exhibitors to conduct live demonstrations for attendees. The event will also feature ‘Pitch It – Prove It’ start-up challenge, in which suppliers will not only explain the theory behind their innovations but also demonstrate their advantages in real time.

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News

Digital engagement the MyConcierge way MyConcierge is showcasing its white-label customer engagement platform at ATM that raises the bar for bespoke arrangements Developed with concierge and lifestyle management companies, associations, DMCs, travel agents, charter companies and specialist luxury and bespoke service providers in mind, MyConcierge incorporates a white-label website and secure login members’ area; e-commerce marketplace; CRM interfaced with member surveys; live chat; advanced reservation and booking system; online payment module, and much more.

With its beginnings in the media industry and then providing concierge services to clients that include the UAE Prime Minister’s Office and leading real estate developers as well as Mastercard where it curates Middle East experiences for Priceless.com, MyConcierge has developed from a B2C e-commerce platform into a full-fledged customer

engagement platform that incorporates a B2B solution for corporate clients.

“We recognised the need for a fullservice customer engagement platform soon after launching our own concierge company,” explained Rob Nicholas, CEO. “But there was nothing on the market that suited our requirements - so we decided to build our own.”

“We realised that the tools we were building to engage members of our own concierge programmes were also extremely valuable for other types of companies that seek personalised interactions with digital support.

“Purchasing a software bundle that matches the functionality we offer on MyConcierge would be a significantly higher investment and the components wouldn’t work symbiotically, as we have designed them to do.”

With technology development taking place from their offices in Greece, and customer support and concierge services managed from Dubai as well as Beirut, MyConcierge is an evolving product.

“Our customers onboarding the technology today will benefit from great advances in the coming year and beyond,” said Nicholas.

Aside from the white-label platform, MyConcierge is also seeking concierge

partners globally that are interested in operating under the same brand and working to their universal service charter.

Nicholas added: “Our interest is in scaling the services we offer locally to support our clients internationally.

Like-minded concierge companies can also do the same – working with common standards, practices, and of course technology.”

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JA Resorts & Hotels expands into China

Dominican Republic targets more Middle East travellers The Dominican Republic welcomed more than 6.5 million airline passengers in 2018, a 6.2 per cent increase on 2017.

With its picturesque beaches, welcoming people and ideal yearround climate, the Caribbean country is drawing more visitors to its sun-kissed shores. Bávaro Beach was one of the most ‘Instagrammed’ beaches last year, achieving more than 83,000 posts.

“Our diverse tourist attractions and terrain speak to visitors with a broad range of interests,” said Magaly Toribio, Marketing Advisor for the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism.

“Travellers are delighted by the variety of experiences, from whale watching to

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exploring our national parks system to indulging in traditional Dominican fare.”

Hiking, biking and diving spearhead the country’s experiential travel – and this year the country is pushing its wellness offering, from oceanfront yoga retreats to spa treatments for mind and body.

Visitors to the capital Santo Domingo can take culinary tours as well as guided tours on cigar and coffee production.

Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism is also keen to promote destinations off the beaten path, such as Montecristi’s wild landscape in the north-west.

JA Resorts & Hotels has announced that it has entered into a joint venture with Novel International Group, a Shanghai investment fund, as it looks to expand into China.

The two companies are forming JA Novel Hospitality China and through this partnership will be acquiring buildings to be retrofitted, renovated or completed as hotels in two distinctions.

The first is upper upscale hotels which will be branded as JA Hotels.

The company is already exploring three property options in two destinations and hopes to find another five areas in the coming years.

The second segment will be upper midscale lifestyle hotels branded as ‘Big Bed by JA’ and the hope is that 30 units will be available by 2024. These will be

spread across various cities in China.

‘We are targeting 27 percent of China’s population and these are the millennials,” said Anthony Ross, CEO of JA Resorts & Hotels. “It is an ambitious year of growth and change, but we are ready for it. Our owners are extremely supportive, our team is poised and ready and we are working with the right partners for success.”

The Big Bed hotel brand will incorporate the latest technology and will be designed in a contemporary style that features street art and vibrant colours.

There will also be no reception desk, with an app instead, providing access to all hotel services from the door key to ordering food.

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Come for the sunshine, stay for the unforgettable experiences.

Whether you want to hike to the lush fern canyon in Redwoods national park, splurge at a high-end exclusive resort on the coast, ride your bike along the Golden Gate Bridge, or shop till you drop on Rodeo Drive, California has you covered. The endless array of experiences in the Golden State will leave you California dreaming long after you’ve returned home.

Tia Hoang

Travel Trade Manager thoang@visitcalifornia.com

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News

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Swiss-Belhotel bringing four new brands to the Middle East in 2019 Swiss-Belhotel International has confirmed the launch of four new brands that will be coming to the Middle East in 2019.

The newcomers include Grand Swiss-Belresort (Bahrain), Swiss-Belsuites (Bahrain), SwissBelboutique (Kuwait) and Swiss-Belinn (Oman) with openings scheduled over the next few months.

Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India, Swiss-Belhotel International, said: “We are very excited to introduce this year, four new brands in the Middle East region from our unique and

diversified portfolio of 14 brands giving greater choice to our guests.

“This creates a tremendous opportunity for growth as we expand our brand portfolio in the market, offering more options to both owners and travellers in more destinations.”

The Grand Swiss-Belresort is a distinctive luxury brand offering premium amenities, while Swiss-Belboutique is a stylishly designed lifestyle brand in the four-star category. Swiss-Belsuites is primarily designed for long-stay guests and families and Swiss-Belinn is positioned in the three-star category.

Laurent A. Voivenel

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Yas Island aims to attract huge numbers of visitors with broad entertainment offering

Golden Sands Hotel Apartments takes over new property

Yas Island, the 25sqkm leisure and entertainment destination, delivers holiday experiences like no other to UAE residents and tourists alike all year round.

The island’s portfolio of awardwinning attractions features unparalleled experiences, including thrilling indoor and outdoor theme parks, a world-class motorsports facility, which is also home to the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping destination, as well as a world-class Links golf course, a sprawling pristine beach and more than 160 restaurants.

Additionally, nestled on the island are seven hotels ranging from affordable three-star comfort to

sophisticated five-star luxury stays.

All this is complemented by Yas Island’s extensive events calendar that continues to grow and diversify to include entertainment for all ages.

Situated a 10-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport, 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and 50 minutes from Dubai, visitors to Yas Island can enjoy the convenience of Yas Express, the complimentary shuttle service that connects all of Yas Island’s attractions.

Additionally, those seeking a more scenic mode of transport will be delighted with the Bikeshare service that is in place, offering a fun and affordable way to get around the Island.

Visitors can book their holidays with ease online at yasisland.ae, which features packages that combine hotel stays with tickets to the island’s awardwinning theme parks, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros.

World Abu Dhabi; and this year, visitors will be able to book new experiences on the island as well as within Abu Dhabi, including tickets to some of the city’s most iconic cultural attractions.

To celebrate the UAE Year of Tolerance, Yas Waterworld secured the Guinness World Records title for “Most Nationalities in a Swimming Pool” by hosting 102 nationalities.

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Golden Sands Hotel Apartments confirmed that it will be taking over one of its owning group’s fourstar hotel properties in Sharjah.

Previously managed by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts under the name of Ramada Hotel & Suites Sharjah, the property’s rebranding comes in line with A. A. Al Moosa Enterprises’ new strategy to strengthen its own local brand Golden Sands, which has been successfully present in the market for 30 years.

Commenting on the takeover, which will commence on July 1, Mohammad Khoori, General Manager of Golden Sands Hotel Apartments, said: “Sharjah has recently witnessed a vast transformation in its tourism sector and we are delighted to support the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority’s vision for the emirate.”

“We are extremely pleased to be selected by the owners to manage this fine property.”

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News

Standing out from the crowd Morocco takes top honours as Best Stand Award winners are announced

The Garden Hotel Company Ltd., Guangzhou

With 2,800 exhibitors taking part in the 26th edition of Arabian Travel Market, competition for this year’s Best Stand Awards was tough and it was no easy task for the judges to decide who would take top honours.

Seeking the stands that pulled out all the stops, it was the Moroccan National Provincial Tourist Office who claimed the ‘Best Stand Design’ award yesterday.

Reproducing elements of both a ‘riad’ and a ‘dar’, the Moroccan stand featured a traditional townhouse with pink walls, red velvet furniture and classical musharabiya wooden carvings, as well as a courtyard and a fountain.

“The message is to introduce the real Morocco,” said Mohammed Saddik Chakir, the Middle East Director.

“We focused on the culture of the country and reduced the technology in

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order to showcase our history and the things that make Morocco unique.”

Competition in the ‘Doing Business’ category was tougher than ever but the judges were impressed by the Marriott International stand for its scale and impact.

Celebrating Marriott International’s success, Vice President of Global Sales for Middle East and Africa, Vladimir Dabbah, said: “The furniture, branding, imagery, it’s reflective of what we have to offer at Marriott International. It’s extremely open and welcoming.

“Marriott and ATM have a very long history and it’s a crucial show as it allows us to connect with some of our best customers, while also building stronger relationships.

“We understand just how important these relationships are and it’s been great to see that we have had a consistently

busy stand on all three days of the show.”

Taking the prize for the ‘Best Stand Feature’ was Sharjah Tourism and Commerce Development Authority (STCDA), which featured a traditional Arabic coffee shop and a ‘magic mirror’ where visitors could pose with a randomly selected backdrop of one of 20 landmarks in the emirate.

Not only did this interactive experience prove to be a hit with visitors to the stand, but it allowed them to have a more immersive and informative experience.

“We wanted to convey the message that Sharjah is about people and culture, not just business,” said Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman, STCDA. “It was also crucial that we showcased Emirati hospitality and heritage, which I think we were able to achieve.”

Babylon Booking’s sleek all-black design and creative use of space meant the Iraqi company won ‘Best Stand within the Travel Tech Show’, while The Garden Hotel Company claimed ‘Best Stand Personnel’ thanks to the staff at the Guangzhou property’s friendliness and knowledge.

Commenting on this year’s awards, Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, ATM, said: “Arabian Travel Market would not be the huge success it is, without the incredible amount of effort and investment that exhibitors put into creating and manning these exceptional stands at the show.

“Since its inception, the annual award programme has not only recognised exhibitors’ efforts but has also encouraged exciting, fresh and creative designs.”

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GoDominicanRepublic.com Jarabacoa

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ATM 2019 – Stand AM1755

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Show in pics

In the frame

As Arabian Travel Market 2019 draws to a close, we provide a snapshot of highlights from this year’s event

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Show in pics

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Feature - Luxury travel

The pursuit of luxury Unique settings and personalised services are almost givens for luxury hotel operators these days – now the challenge is to provide genuinely memorable experiences that customers can’t find elsewhere 1

On the face of it, selling luxury travel is a breeze. You have stunning properties, top-notch F&B and discretion and service are already embedded into your hotel’s DNA. You don’t have to get preoccupied with the mid-market, volume discounting game and if clients come once and enjoy it, there’s a good chance they’ll return time and again.

If only it was that easy.

Expectations from owners, operators and guests are always high – and they’re getting higher as demand for bespoke itineraries increases.

In WTM’s Trends in Luxury Travel report, personal and exclusive experience that ‘let the client be in control’ are becoming increasingly popular. Hotels like Barriere Le Fouquet’s in Paris allow their guests to choose details such as pillow type, the music they want played when they walk in, and even the type of flowers they want in the room.

Guests want to feel that their stay is unique and especially tailored for them, and more importantly, different from all the other guests staying in the same hotel. Increasingly, travellers are happy to tailor their preferences before they travel and are prepared to pay a little extra in order to give their travel experience an element of exclusivity.

Dubai, for many still synonymous with luxury despite the huge growth in market-market hotels, continues to raise the five-star bar.

Walk into the lobby of Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai, which opened last November, with its 28,000 Swarvoski crystal chandelier and 24-carat goldplated designs, and you can’t help but be impressed. It’s also a sign that Dubai’s love affair with luxury is intensifying.

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The scale allows entertainment options that few five-star hotels could even consider. Classical music concerts are held in the Blüthner Hall lobby lounge, an 80-seat private cinema with reclining leather seats can be hired for events and the spa spans a colossal 3,000sqm.

All of which makes for fine Instagram photos, but they only go so far - and that’s where modern F&B concepts, in contrast to the classical designs, come into play with the aim of positioning the resort as a ‘gastronomic destination’ – the highlight being Mix by Alain Ducasse. Increasingly, luxury hospitality is about covering all the senses.

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Like all sectors, luxury operators are having to keep one eye on travellers’ changing tastes, but you can’t change seasons or geography. Dubai, along with the Seychelles and Maldives, continues to appeal to the jet-set, and European - particularly Russian - travellers looking to escape cold winters.

Caesars Bluewaters Dubai (Palace, Resort and Residences) – the first Caesars outside Las Vegas – recently announced its five-star arrival in style with a grand fireworks display and appearance from celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, whose Hell’s Kitchen restaurant is among the international venues on site.

James Riley, CEO of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group – which opened its first Middle East property in February, a city resort in central Dubai – believes luxury is becoming more leisure oriented, and it’s increasingly important to have resorts that make a leisure statement.

Superior rooms start from AED2,200 a night and rise as high as AED12,000 for a Mandarin Sea Front Suite.

“Luxury is becoming a touch more relaxed,” he said. “Part of that is about Mandarin becoming more relaxed, to chill a little bit, which I think is important with the way hospitality is moving.”

Whereas corporates were, historically, the foundation of luxury, it’s a declining sector as more companies scrutinise value and costs.

“Luxury hotels built 20 to 30 years ago had 400 or 500 rooms, now you’re looking at 150 to 200,” added Riley. “The key is to identify the markets that have the depth of business to sustain luxury. There is a lot of product out there which describes itself as luxury but it’s not – you have to provide a level of uniqueness. Our Dubai resort,

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1 Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai lobby 2 James Riley, CEO Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group 3 Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai guest room 4 Candice D’Cruz, Marriott International 5 Emerald Palace by Kempinski Dubai, Palm Jumeirah 6 Ornate designs of Emerald Palace by Kempinski Dubai

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on the beach and close to Downtown, is quite a rare combination and it will appeal to business and leisure travellers.”

With nearly 400 luxury hotels across eight brands in over 65 countries, and another 200 to open in 20 new countries, Marriott International has staked its claim as the “leader in luxury in this New Golden Age of travel”.

Candice D’Cruz, VP Luxury Brand Marketing & Management MEA, Marriott, said ‘next generation luxury’ is seeing travellers defined by their interests and mindset rather than their geography and demographic.

“Luxury has always been about scarcity and authenticity, but where exclusivity used to be about being ‘in the know’, today it’s about ‘what to know’ – people are looking for a careful curation of the things that

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matter most to them,” she said.

Key trends are the emergence of ‘transformative travel’ – experiences that leave guests transformed – and new luxury categories such as virtual reality devices and healthcare robotics; and while personalisation is gaining traction across the industry, for luxury operators it has always been critical.

“The key lies in effectively integrating technology so that it makes for a more seamless guest experience without sacrificing the importance of genuine human touch and care,” she said.

Such is the growth of the luxury travel market that according to Allied Market Research, it is projected to reach US$1,154bn (AED4bn) globally by 2022 and grow at a CAGR of 6.4 percent In the Middle East and North Africa, Egypt is the largest market by

The key lies in effectively integrating technology so it makes for a more seamless guest experience without sacrificing the human touch luxury volume while Dubai and UAE markets account for a combined 61 percent of the region’s current fivestar pipeline. But with the growth of the digital market and companies such as Airbnb, consumers are now being provided with a much broader range of choice in terms of where they are going to stay and what they are going to do. Yet, Riley believes this increased competition can help the luxury market.

“That’s been a real positive for hospitality, because it’s bringing more people into the industry,” he said. “But it does mean you need to recognise the range of competitors is broadening. It means you have to work out your point of difference, how you’re going to compete, rather than just feeling there is a market.”

Currently, China and India are spearheading luxury growth, with China

globally recognised as the largest market for luxury hotels. Demand is also increasing and in 2017 its luxury revenue grew by 7.9 percent. Riley concurs that the “big growth” is coming from outbound Asian travel, with more people prepared to spend on experiences rather than goods.

In terms of the millennials and luxury travel, he said a certain number are willing to spend but they’re a small part of the overall market. Explaining: “In essence, what one’s trying to do is to create something that appeals to millennials but actually is used by those of a greater age group.”

In a world of increasing branded conformity, the luxury sector remains an anomaly, where it’s all about differentiation. High net worth individuals’ expectations aren’t shrinking anytime soon.

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Seminar Schedule

Travel Tech Theatre 11:00 - 11:45 THE FUTURE OF PRICING INTELLIGENCE IN THE AGE OF NDC, PERSONALISATION AND MACHINE LEARNING In the age of NDC, airlines are regaining control of their distribution model, allowing for more sophisticated retailing techniques with differentiated and personalised offers. Complexity is increasing, along with the pressure on revenue. Pricing intelligence based on up-to-date airfare information is changing the rules of the game not only for airlines but for the travel industry at large. Join us to hear how the travel landscape is changing and how machine learning and business intelligence are playing a role in this transformational journey.

Speaker: Harald Eisenaecher, Chief Commercial Officer, Infare

Sponsored by

12:00-13:00 CREATING DESTINATIONS OF CHOICE Tourism Organisations are committed to developing and implementing successful Destination Marketing strategies and tactics to maximise tourism value for visitors while ensuring local benefits and sustainability.

Moderator: Maya Hojeij, Chief Editor & Senior Presenter, Dubai Media Incorporated Speakers: Tricia Warwick, Director - Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa, VisitBritain; Sigrid De Mazieres, Director - Gulf Countries, German National Tourist Office; Gamal Sadek, Regional Director, Oman Ministry of Tourism; Hazem Al Sawaf, Director of Marketing and Communications, Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority; Mamoun Hmedan, Managing Director - MENA and India, Wego

Inspiration Theatre 1 10:15 - 11:15 BURGEONING BLEISURE TRAVELLERS: HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE BOOMING TREND Bleisure travel, the practice of combining business and leisure travel, has seen significant growth year after year, and will likely continue to boom as younger generations enter the workforce. A recent study commissioned by Expedia Group Media Solutions and conducted by Luth Research reveals what influences bleisure traveller decisions, including their preferences, priorities, resources and

financial factors, as well as what makes a destination appealing for bleisure.

Through in-depth research findings and industry case studies, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how to reach, engage and convert bleisure travellers from around the world, and leave with actionable insights to apply in their own marketing strategies.

Speaker: Andrew van der Feltz, Senior Director, EMEA & APAC, Expedia Group Media Solutions

11:30 - 12:15 TOURISM BROADENS THE MIND: CAN WE DO MORE? Tourists are increasingly demanding memorable experiences and opportunities for meaningful connections with local people. One of the great benefits of travel and tourism is the opportunities it creates for people from very different religions, cultures and backgrounds to meet and for the traveller or tourist to learn more of the history and way of life of the communities they visit. As Krippendorf, the founder of

Responsible Tourism pointed out, “every individual tourist builds up or destroys human values while travelling”. What can those of us in the industry do to foster understanding and celebrate diversity?

Moderator: Harold Goodwin, WTM Responsible Tourism Advisor Speakers: Husam Jubran, Director of Tour Guide Development, MEJDI Tours; Nada Badran, Founder, Wander With Nada; Dr. Hayat Shamsuddin, VP, Arts and Culture, Visitor Experience Division, Expo 2020 Dubai

Inspiration Theatre 2 11:45 - 12:45 ATM CAREER IN TRAVEL CARVING A SUCCESSFUL CAREER IN TRAVEL: ‘MY STORY’ Come and hear how these influential travel professionals have risen through the ranks and achieved their goals, as they share insight and anecdotes about what it takes to succeed. Whether you dream of being a sought-after travel influencer, or want to operate at the top of a leading hospitality company, our inspirational, all-female panel will talk you through the challenges they faced and their greatest accomplishments, with lots of great advice about following your own path.

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This session is open to all attending ATM. Moderator: Faye Bartle, Managing Editor, Hot Media Publishing Speakers: Carly Neave, Content Creator and Influencer, Travel and Wellness Blog; Ailsa Pollard, SVP consumer ME&I, dnata Travel; Victoria Thatcher, Managing Director, Hot Media Publishing; Gresha Schuilling, Manager, Field Marketing, Middle East & Africa, IHG 13:00 - 14:00 ATM CAREER IN TRAVEL - HOW TO GAIN A CAREER IN DIGITAL MARKETING: TIPS & RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE PROS

In this panel you will learn first-hand from expert influencers and digital marketers about their personal paths to success in the ever-changing digital landscape, the tips they wish somebody had given them when they were first starting out, and their best advice for aspiring digital professionals in travel, followed by an open Q&A session with the audience. This session is open to all attending ATM. Moderator: Matt Gibson, CEO, UpThink Speakers: Natasha Amar, Travel Writer & Blogger, TheBohoChica.com; Paul Johnson, Editor, A Luxury Travel Blog

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24/7 TOURIST HELPLINE: 1800-11-1363 (WHILE IN INDIA)

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Feature - Expo 2020 Dubai

A globetrotter’s dream at Expo 2020 Dubai Discover brand new tech, traditional performances, delicious dishes and more at the 192 country pavilions A world of future-shaping innovations and fascinating cultures awaits visitors to Expo 2020 Dubai across 192 Country Pavilions, as each participating nation seizes the chance to showcase itself on a global stage.

Taking place for six months from October 20, 2020, the next World Expo will be an unmissable celebration welcoming millions from across the planet to the UAE. Countries are continuing to reveal their pavilions on a regular basis, highlighting both their groundbreaking designs as well as the immersive experiences and cutting-edge technologies that will be found within.

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1 Saudi Arabia Pavilion 2 USA Pavilion 3 & 5 UAE Pavilion 4 Belgium Pavilion

This is in line with Expo 2020’s theme of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, and each pavilion will be located according to its chosen subtheme of Opportunity, Mobility or Sustainability.

Saudi Arabia is one of the latest countries to reveal its design, which resembles a huge window opening up from the ground and soaring into the sky to symbolise the kingdom’s glittering future. Seventeen nations have also confirmed that they will break ground on their pavilions before the end of June.

Exhibits on show at Expo 2020 will include a German invention that

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Exhibits on show at Expo 2020 will include a German invention that allows concrete to produce solar power allows concrete to produce solar power, an enormous radio satellite that China hopes will detect interstellar signals from alien life, and a device from the Czech Republic that creates water from just air and sunlight.

Visitors can expect to see eye-catching architecture at every turn throughout the Expo 2020 site in Dubai South – from the Brazil Pavilion, which will resemble a luminous floating cube at night, to the Republic of Korea Pavilion, whose design will constantly change through the clever use of rotating cubes.

Expo 2020 will also appeal to those with a globetrotting spirit, enabling them to travel the world in a day. For instance, a visitor could enjoy a hyperloop experience at the USA Pavilion, eat world-famous fries at the Belgium Pavilion and listen to live traditional folk music at the Belarus Pavilion.

They could also delve into Maori culture at the New Zealand Pavilion and experience the ambiance of a Viennese coffeehouse at the Austria Pavilion.

State-of-the-art sustainability will also feature prominently, as the participating nations employ the latest technology and techniques to minimise their carbon footprint. This includes the Azerbaijan Pavilion, whose leafshaped roof will create an air cushion to cool high temperatures, while the Netherlands Pavilion will produce water, energy and food through a cone-shaped ‘vertical farm’.

Then there’s the UAE Pavilion, which resembles a falcon in flight with moving hydraulic ‘wings’ that harvest clean energy. The landmark structure, and Expo 2020’s largest pavilion at 15,000sqm, will explore the incredible story of the UAE from ancient crossroads to a dynamic global hub, and the networks linking the UAE to the rest of the world.

Whatever a visitor’s interests or mood – whether curious, cultured or just plain hungry – the 190 Country Pavilions will provide creative answers as part of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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Feature - Immersive travel

Live like a local Thanks to a host of specialist companies and targeted campaigns, travellers now have the chance to experience a country through the eyes of its residents One of the biggest travel trends set to continue its ascent in 2019 is the idea that travellers now want to explore all a destination has to offer with the help of the locals who live there. Increasingly, tourists are looking to go back to basics in search of an authentic experience and now tourism providers are beginning to cater to this growing segment.

This year, Visit Finland launched a brand new campaign that invited people from all over the world to experience how Finnish people live in harmony with nature through an initiative, Rent a Finn.

This saw eight ordinary citizens, chosen from hundreds of applicants, employed as happiness guides for travellers. Not only would they welcome visitors but they would show them their own ways or relieving stress by getting back to nature.

“Many travellers choose to visit Finland because of our uniquely peaceful nature and tranquillity. The Rent a Finn campaign is in response to the global travel trend of living like a local, which is all about sharing genuine experiences with ordinary people,” explains Heli

Jimenez, Senior Director, International Marketing, Business Finland.

“Pure nature is a part of life in Finland.

We go outdoors in any weather, let our babies nap outside and spend a great deal of time in nature in general. Our happiness guides all share a certain awareness, a great love of nature and an appreciation for slow living.”

As well as campaigns such as this one, there are numerous companies being established in countries around the world that connect travellers with the local community. Founded in 2011,

Nagomi Visit is a company that matches tourists with Japanese residents throughout the country and lets them dine together at the local’s family home.

Touted as a home visit, the experience lasts three to four hours, making it an easy way to connect with people who actually live in the country and experience their way of life. Such has been the success of the website, that there are hosts signed-up in cities throughout Japan, from the rural area of Hokkaido to central Toyko and tropical Okinawa.

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Companies similar to this one are emerging around the world, with one of the most popular in the Middle East being Meet the Locals. The brainchild of Emirati entrepreneurs Abdulla Matar and Khadija Behzad, the cultural tour group was founded to encourage interaction between the local community and visitors to the UAE, as well as expatriates. Although fairly new to the country’s tourism scene, the start-up has already come a long way, even winning an award for its concept, which aims to bridge cultural gaps.

“Both myself and my co-founder were passionate to start a business in the tourism sector and we realised that there is a real need to provide interaction opportunities between Emirati national and tourists,” says Behzad. “Tourists were visiting our country and leaving without having the chance to meet Emirati nationals or experience real Emirati culture.

“This made us really sad as we love meeting people of all nationalities and presenting our culture to them, so we decided to start the business in order to create a link between the Emirati, expat and tourist community.”

In addition to providing a glimpse into Emirati culture, Meet the Locals promises to take tourists off the wellworn path to gain an insight into the nation’s past and present. The insightful guides provide anecdotes and nuggets of information that you won’t find elsewhere, whether it’s during a trip to one of Sharjah’s many museums or visiting the many modern attractions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

“All of our tours offer a warm and welcoming environment for people to make themselves at home, enjoy our Emirati hospitality, ask the questions that have always been on their minds and engage in honest conversations,” adds Behzad.

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Tourists were visiting our country and leaving without having the chance to experience real Emirati culture 4

“We are following traditions we’ve learned from our parents and grandparents, creating a unique culture of hospitality. We always make our guests feel welcome and we treat them like one of us. We invite them into our homes and our lives and ensure they take a piece of our heritage back with them.”

Proving that tourists are increasingly interested in learning more about the rich history of the UAE, one of the company’s most popular tours takes visitors along Dubai Creek to “experience the sounds and smells of old Dubai”.

This includes visits to the Dubai Museum within Al Fahidi Fort, the Coin Museum and Dubai Coffee Museum.

With tourism becoming more homogenised, travellers are seeking out authentic experiences and the rise in tour companies that rely on local guides is on the rise. As well as localised operators such as Meet the Locals, there are companies that now employ thousands of guides around the world.

ToursByLocals was one of the first companies to connect travellers with local guides via an online platform, relying on peer reviews to establish

1 Getting back to nature in Finland 2 Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood 3 Dubai Museum 4 A Meet the Locals tour 5 Dubai Coffee Museum

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quality control measures. Founded in 2008, it now connects upwards of 400,000 clients a year with more than 2,700 tour guides in 159 countries.

The Canadian-based company is also a proponent of responsible tourism as it aims to deliver more money directly to independent tour guides, filtering that money through the local economies.

Given the success of these companies and initiatives, it seems the idea of travellers immersing themselves in local culture is only going to continue in the years to come. And despite cities around the world increasingly wanting to showcase record-breaking structures and modern attractions, there will always be a demand for authentic experiences.

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Feature - Great escapes

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These picturesque cities and charming towns are set for a surge in visitors as tourists increasingly seek off the beaten track destinations Last year a survey by IPK World Travel Monitor found that some 25 percent of travellers felt that trips had been negatively effected by overcrowding.

With some destinations creaking under the sheer volume of visitors, there is an increasing demand among tourists to discover cities and towns where they can escape the crowds and truly enjoy all the area has to offer. Fortunately, the Middle East is home to some little-known gems that are just waiting to be explored.

SIWA, EGYPT Believed to be more than two million years old, Siwa, located on the far-western side of Egypt is known as the ‘forgotten oasis.’ But once you find it, you’ll remember it forever.

Boasting an expanse of lakes, natural springs, hills and palm trees, the breathtaking views have to be seen

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to be believed. There is something for everyone here. For those looking for relaxation, Siwa provides the ultimate serenity, with rows of palm trees leading to natural springs that are just perfect for taking a cooling dip. Those seeking a little more adventure can drive out to the Great Sand Sea and race up and down the endless dunes, while nature lovers will appreciate the simply stunning sunsets that close each day.

History lovers, meanwhile, will be spoilt for choice. Visitors can explore the 13th century, mud brick Fortress of Shali, where the people of Siwa once lived, and walk the labyrinth of ruins that lead to a mosque that is still operating today.

The Mountain of the Dead holds tombs dating back to the 26th Dynasty during the Ptolemaic period, while the Temple of the Oracle, also known as Aghurmi or Amun Ra

Temple is where Alexander the Great headed when he visited Egypt.

AL AHSA, SAUDI ARABIA Al-Ahsa was recently named Arab Tourism Capital for 2019 by the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism, having also been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status last year.

Categorised as one of the oldest human settlements in the Arabian Peninsula, it’s home to the largest oasis in Saudi Arabia, boasting more than three million palm trees and lots of hot and cold springs, all amid an expanse of sand.

Here visitors will find a huge lake, historical buildings and ancient archaeological sites where history buffs can trace details back to the Neolithic period, more than 10,000 years ago.

Al Ahsa is also home to Qaisariya Souk, one of the oldest traditional

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1 Wadi Mujib 2 Hatta 3 Al Ahsa 4 Siwa Oasis 5 Hatta dam 6 Al Ahsa

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markets in the Eastern Province. It is here visitors will discover a myriad of stalls selling everything from traditional clothing, perfumes and oils to spices, hand-woven carpets and antiquities.

For those wishing to learn more about the history of the area, the ancient Ibrahim Palace is also a must visit. Built during the Ottoman rule, within the grounds there is an old steam room, a guards’ dormitory and an old stable.

The famous Al-Qara Mountains are also located just a 25-minute drive away and are a must for those visiting the region.

HATTA, UAE Hatta has long been a preferred staycation destination for many a Dubai dweller looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, with its cooler climes and peaceful, natural setting providing the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern-day living.

But now, thanks to a series of eco-tourism development projects currently underway as part of a 10-year development plan, Hatta is proving an attractive proposition for globetrotters around the world.

Offering kayaking, axe throwing, freefall jumping, zip-lining, adventure trails, a water jump park, guided walks and some of the best terrain for mountain bike enthusiasts to enjoy, Hatta has action well and truly packed on the agenda. Of course, those that just want to relax and enjoy the untamed natural surroundings and rugged horizons are also well catered for.

A range of glamping options is already available for visitors, such as

the region’s first ‘trailer hotel,’ Sedr Trailers Resort. Offering more lavish facilities than one would find on a standard camping trip, trailers have been set up along the banks of Hatta Dam, enabling people to enjoy sleeping underneath the stars in five-star luxury.

With construction work for a boutique hotel, majlis, retail outlets and specialised zorbing centre ongoing, Hatta will soon have even more to offer its visitors.

WADI MUJIB, JORDAN Those wanting to truly enjoy the Dead Sea need to get off the tourist trail and head to Wadi Mujib. Known as the Black Gorge, it’s the lowest nature reserve in the world and the number one spot for

fun in the water: think hiking, canyoning, sliding and swimming. Sections of Wadi Mujib also cover the Mujib Biosphere Reserve, which is home to more than 300 species of plants and numerous rare mountain animals.

Located in the mountainous landscape to the east of the Dead Sea and stretching 70 kilometres, this spectacular chasm has been given the nickname, the ‘Grand Canyon of Jordan’. Known in biblical times as Arnon Valley, the canyon also has a hiking trail that leads all the way to the fascinating city of Petra.

The ideal destination for adventure seekers, visitors to Wadi Mujib can abseil down sheer cliffs, swim in clear waters and hike through the rugged terrain.

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Destinations

Greece

The Greek language is unique and has continuously been used for more than 5,000 years. This makes it the oldest written language still in existence

Greek National Tourism Organisation / EU5410

Steeped in history, alive with culture and boasting an endless coastline, there are few other countries in the world that boast such a plethora of stunning natural attractions. From the Acropolis of Athens and the massive marble sculptures dredged up from the Aegean Sea to the cobbled Byzantine footpaths and sun-kissed beaches, there is so much for visitors to explore.

The country’s capital, Athens, is the ideal destination for those wanting to embrace Greece’s rich culture.

Home to remnants that date back thousands of years such as the Temple of Poseidon and the magnificent Acropolis, the city also has excellent beaches and an array of restaurants serving the very best Greek cuisine.

Island hopping is another great way to explore all the country has to offer, with Crete one of the most popular thanks to its vibrant villages, ancient treasures and splendid beaches.

With so much to offer, it is little wonder that the ancient country has become a

With so much to offer, it is little wonder that the ancient country has become a beacon of modern tourism

Santorini

Parthenon

beacon of modern tourism. This year it attracted 30.12 million foreign tourists, a rise of 10.8 percent on 2017 when 27.19 million people visited Greece. The revenues related to tourism also jumped significantly, reaching a figure of US$18.3 billion (AED67 billion), a 10.1 percent increase on last year.

The Greek Travel & Tourism sector grew at a rate of 6.9 percent, more than over three and a half times the pace of

Dominican Republic

The island was first discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492, and named it La Hispaniola, in honour of the Kingdom of Spain

Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism / AM1755

The second largest and most diverse Caribbean country, located two hours from Miami and eight hours from most European cities, the Dominican Republic contains abundant nature, history and culture, while its 1,609 kilometres of coastline boasts some of the world’s top beaches and resorts.

Renowned for its perfect yearround weather, the country is one of the world’s best spots for whale watching between mid-December and late March, and humpbacks congregate in Samaná on the north-east corner. But it is not just the coastline that attracts visitors to its shores, the versatility of its offering means it appeals to honeymooners, foodies, MICE groups, watersports lovers, eco-tourists and golfers in equal measure. Cruising is also a pivotal sector with Amber Cove Cruise port in Maimon near Puerto Plata receiving an average of 15,000 weekly visitors.

Traditionally popular with travellers from the United States and Canada, the Dominican Republic is striving to drive global tourism awareness and it seems to be working with visitor arrivals in the first four months of 2018 up 7.7 percent yearon-year – which followed tourist numbers rising 3.9 percent to 6,187,542 in 2017 and

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hotel occupancies reaching 77 percent.

All-inclusive properties are proving increasingly popular in a market which contains 70,000 rooms. Melia recently turned the Melia Caribe Tropical resort into two distinct all-inclusive beach hotels in Punta Cana (adults-only Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort and family- friendly Melia Caribe Beach Resort), while the 618-room Ocean El Faro in Uvero is the latest launch from H10 Hotels. Ground recently broke on the five-star Infiniti Punta Cana hotel which will be managed

by Spanish hotel company BG Hotels.

Punta Cana

its wider national economy. Meanwhile, the World Travel & Tourism Council revealed that one-quarter of all employment in Greece is now based in travel and tourism, a figure that is forecast to rise above one million this year.

To ensure overtourism does not become an issue, the Greek National Tourism Organisation has outlined a sustainable tourism model to promote less-frequented islands such as Skyros, Milos, Folegandros and Koufonissia. The Greek government has also approved million-dollar tourism projects in Mykonos, Cape Tholos and Santorini.

Meanwhile, Athens is hoping to cope with surging visitor numbers by opening a raft of new hotels. Last year 855 rooms opened in the city and this year more properties will arrive, such as the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel, Athenaeum Grand Hotel, the Academia Hotel from Marriott and a Moxy Hotel.

Saona island

The versatility of the tourism industry here means it appeals to honeymooners, foodies, MICE groups, watersports lovers, eco-tourists and golfers in equal measure

The Ministry of Tourism is also keen to attract visitors beyond the popular town of Punta Cana – which is targeting 4.94 million visitors by 2025 – to destinations such as Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata, where Marriott plans to open a Ritz-Carlton, W Hotel and Luxury Collection property. Additionally, a US$1.5 billion (AED5.5 billion) project is earmarked for Puntarenas in the southern region.

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Destinations

Spain

Spain Tourism Office / EU5430

From historical to gastronomical tours, spiritual tours to cycling routes, Spain is a world of options in the heart of Europe. The country’s topography is vastly diverse, boasting the most UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in the world with everything from lakes, mountains, volcanoes and marshes to forests, valleys, cliffs, and hot springs.

Sports lovers have a range of activities, all year round, from an abundance of horse riding and cycling routes, more than 400 golf courses, watersports, climbing, hiking and mountaineering, and of course La Liga; no shortage of action whether spectator or participant. And of course Spain cannot be experienced without delving deep into its culinary delights.

Valencia

The country’s topography is vastly diverse, boasting the most UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in the world with everything from lakes, mountains, volcanoes and marshes to forests, valleys, cliffs and hot springs

Finland

Business Finland - Visit Finland / EU5720

Home to almost 200,000 lakes, 37 national parks and half a million summer cottages, Finland is perfect for urbanites looking for a change of scenery. Around 80 percent of the land is covered by forests and 10 percent by water, meaning there is a range of outdoor activities on offer throughout the country.

Hiking, trekking, boating and whitewater rafting are just a handful of the activities available, with Saimaa - the largest lake in Finland - serving as a magnet for residents and visitors alike. Meanwhile, park-friendly Helsinki is ideal for walking

The blue lakes and green forests of Finland

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A popular eatery in the Spanish capital, Sobrino de Botin in Madrid can lay claim to being the oldest restaurant in the world having operated since 1725

Barcelona

The country and its islands have some of the world’s best beaches, from coastal towns and cities to fishing villages. From Majorcan coves to peaceful Mogan’s white houses, small canals and serene beaches, Ibiza’s vibrant nightlife or Formentera’s mountain backdrops, the choice is vast.

Away from the bustle of the city, Spain’s more rural inland has much to offer. From medieval towns and fortified cities to villages located

among extraordinarily beautiful natural surroundings, the country is a journey through history.

Blending history and modern day Spanish culture, Barcelona has it all. The capital of Catalonia has Roman remains, medieval quarters and the most beautiful examples of 20th century Modernism and avant-garde, with several world heritage sites. Culture is abundant, with a wealth of museums, exhibitions, concerts, plays and dances in addition to cherished traditions such as the fiestas of La Merce.

Not forgetting the city’s mouthwatering gastronomic culture, the seafront city is the perfect blend of old and new.

Majorca

The Finnish language can claim the world’s longest palindrome, a word that is spelled the same forwards and backwards – “Saippuakivikauppias”

Upkenski Cathedral

around, with its relaxing spaces and 450 years of history. Beyond the capital, Turku, Rauma, Hanko and Vaasa are scattered along the coastline and each offers their own culture and maritime heritage.

Finnish Lapland remains a major draw in winter, with its colourful ‘northern lights’ featured on more than a million Instagram posts. But Visit Finland is keen to remind visitors that the country’s tourism offering extends well beyond the winter wonderland.

With almost 200,000 lakes, 37 national parks and half a million summer cottages, Finland is perfect for urbanites looking for a change of scene A recent Visit Finland campaign, named ‘Rent a Finn’, is aimed at travellers looking for authentic experiences and offers them the chance to explore the country with the help of a local guide.

It also provides an opportunity to alleviate stress by connecting with nature.

Through this campaign and the employment of several other marketing strategies, Finland hopes to improve on the 6.7 million tourists that visited the country in 2017. More than half of these visitors arrived from fellow European Union states and there are opportunities to grow the market share in other regions, especially the Middle East.

In hotel news, there are plans from Ruby Hotels to open its first Nordic Hotel in Helsinki in early 2021, while those with a sweet tooth should look out for the world’s ‘first ice cream hotel room’, a partnership between Valio and hotel Klaus K.

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What the exhibitors say...

VIBHAVA TRIPATHI Assistant Director General

DUBAI AIRPORTS “We have relaunched the DXB brand as we are determined to make Dubai International the centre of customer experience excellence. With 89 million passengers passing through DXB last year, we want to give visitors to Arabian Travel Market a taste of what’s happening at Dubai International, which we are currently transforming into a destination that offers a host of immersive experiences.

Dubai Airports is now much more than an aviation operator – it is a hospitality provider.”

MINISTRY OF TOURISM, GOVERNMENT OF INDIA “We participate in ATM every year as Dubai is the gateway to the Middle East, which is an important market for India that is generating considerable tourism growth. In 2019, we are looking forward to meeting travel trade professionals, as well as bloggers and influencers who will play a crucial role in helping us change perceptions of what India has to offer.

Luxury travel from the region to India is already big, but there is so much more to offer, from medical to spiritual tourism.”

JEYHUN EFENDI Senior Vice President of E-commerce and Commercial Operations FLYDUBAI “Arabian Travel Market is crucial for flydubai as it presents us with the opportunity to catch up with people we wouldn’t have seen otherwise. It’s a great place to bring people together and we use it to connect with different suppliers, tour operators and companies who are here from around the world.

It’s easier because people are here and it’s a good base for us to do these things. We can actually display our business class product here too.”

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ADONIS TRAVEL & TOURISM “We are a DMC specialising in experiences in Jordan, Lebanon, the UAE and Oman. Our main goal for participating in ATM is to maintain our partnerships with the GCC and Asian markets. Every year we aim to increase the contracts we have with our clients to cater to the number of tourists coming from China, Taiwan, Malaysia and Japan. It helps us tap into new opportunities and maintain contacts with our partners and suppliers which include hotels, restaurants and international transport service providers.”

NIKKI BEACH RESORT AND SPA “Attending ATM is an absolute must for Nikki Beach Resort & Spa as it is a great opportunity for us to connect with the people that support us and also build a host of new relationships. We have exhibited every year since we first opened our property three and a half years ago and it is a great way to reinforce our brand. This platform also provides us with an excellent chance to look at next year’s business, assess potential contracts and gauge the overall market.”

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PAUL GRIFFITHS Chief Executive Officer

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GENEVA TOURISM & CONVENTIONS FOUNDATION “ATM is a very important show for us and this is the fifth time we’re presenting Geneva as a travel destination. It presents the opportunity to reconnect with travel agencies and tour operators while also expanding our connections with the B2B market within the GCC. We are looking to establish new partnerships for 2020 and also promote Geneva as a lively city with plenty for both business and leisure travellers to do.”

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TAMARA TAWIL Market Manager Overseas Countries Marketing Department

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JAKARTA CITY GOVERNMENT TOURISM AND CULTURE OFFICE “We are proud to be exhibiting at ATM and would love to participate every year. Our primary goal is to promote Jakarta as a destination and increase the number of visitors to Indonesia’s capital by showcasing our unique offering, which comprises natural attractions, beaches and MICE facilities. The Middle East is a very significant market to Indonesia and we’re hoping to attract more visitors each year through our participation.”

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EDI JUNAEDI Director

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THE VISION DESTINATION MANAGEMENT “Another ATM is underway and once again we have the immense pleasure of hosting professionals and visitors from around the world. As an official partner, we are committed to making the experience worthwhile. We have always delivered a boutique-style concept dedicated to specific segments and markets.

Results have always been positive and our plans are always based on the needs and expectations of our partners.”

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ANWAR A. Z. ABU MONASSAR Destination Director – Strategy & Operation

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A selection of international exhibitors share their goals and ambitions for this year’s show

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DIDIER DOGLEY Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine SEYCHELLES TOURISM BOARD “The GCC is a very interesting market because the quality of visitors we see is very high-end.

It has been growing and we’re looking for ways to enhance this growth since there are also a lot of expatriates living in the region. With Seychelles being just four hours away, we have good air connections and a plethora of accommodation types from bed and breakfast to five-star properties. We can cater to all types of tourists from the region.”

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J S ANAND Chief Executive Officer LEVA HOTELS AND RESORTS “This is the first time Leva Hotels and Resorts is participating in ATM and we’re here to showcase our brand new property based in Mazaya Centre. Our property features 162 deluxe rooms and 16 suites.

We are within walking distance from City Walk and the soonto-open Coco-Cola Arena and are also within close proximity of The Dubai Mall. Although we are a four-star hotel, we still offer kitchen facilities in-room, making us unique. But when it comes to service, it’s five-star and there are no compromises.”

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MARHABA

Savour the tranquility of this island escape nested by the mangroves and wildlife of Sharjah's east coast

+971 9 201 1900 | myskhotels.com |

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PRESENTS

A SERIES OF EXTRAORDINARY STORIES

CAMEL WHISPERER

Discover timeless wonders among the dunes through the eyes of a daughter of the desert WATCH HER STORY AT VISITABUDHABI.AE

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