22 minute read
News
Germany prepared to welcome GCC visitors
The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) has revealed that cities across the country are ready to welcome highspending GCC nationals as soon as travel restrictions lift later this year. Therefore, Germany is showcasing its array of attractions and tourism sites at ATM to raise awareness of all that the country, and Berlin, in particular, has to offer.
Advertisement
Nature and culture enthusiasts from the GCC countries will find the facets and flair of Germany ideal for exploration. Visitors can discover immersive customs, crafts, local food and drink, culture, architecture and the varied countryside on the doorstep of many German cities.
The German capital, Berlin, is also looking forward to welcoming visitors from across the GCC to discover a reinvented city with a fascinating mix of heritage and innovation.
Despite a difficult 12 months, this year has seen many landmark projects launch in the city, such as the opening of the reconstructed city palace – the Humboldt Forum – and the reopening of Berlin’s leading art address – the Neue Nationalgalerie at the Kulturforum.
The U5 metro line also has a new section connecting Berlin’s many cultural attractions, while the new international Berlin Airport (BER) is also now open.
Under the Berlin Health Excellence Initiative, launched by Visit Berlin in early 2020, the city will also open its doors to medical tourists from the Middle East who come seeking the medical expertise and cutting-edge services that the city is renowned for.
Speaking during the ATM press conference, Yamina Sofo, Director Sales & Marketing, German National Tourist Office - Gulf Countries (GNTO), said: “With the success of the national vaccination programmes in the GCC countries, particularly in the UAE, where more than 11.5 million doses have been administered so far, we remain optimistic that the pre-crisis level of incoming travel from the UAE to Germany can be regained by the end of 2022.
“It gives us immense pleasure to be here at ATM and to showcase our unique German culture to not only GCC travellers but tourists across the Middle East. We hope to encourage demand for city and nature holidays, coupled with sustainable tourism, which draws attention to the many different ways of discovering Germany with its wide range of traditions and attractions.”
Germany is extremely popular with GCC visitors. The country recorded 1.6 million overnight stays from the Gulf region in 2019 and has a goal of reaching 3.6 million overnight stays by 2030.
Commenting on Berlin’s readiness for the return of inbound tourism, Burkhard Kieker, Chief Executive Officer, Visit Berlin, said: “Berlin is poised for yet another new start in 2021 – off into the future – when we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. Whatever the changes to our city, Berlin always retains an irresistible fascination and a multitude of possibilities – from big-city thrills to unwinding, from adventures to relaxation, and from inspiring culinary adventures to traditional food and drink.”
Ralf Ostendorf, Director - Market Management and Market & Media Relations Manager - Asia, Australia, Middle East, Visit Berlin, said: “As a vibrant cosmopolitan city, you can explore living history, internationally renowned museums, unique galleries, UNESCO sites and major historical buildings.
“Still, there is also space for waterside activities and the beautiful countryside to discover around the city.”
VISIT STAND EU2350
Saudi Arabia reopens its doors as flights resume
Saudi Arabia is open for business – that was the clear message at the first session of the Saudi Arabia Tourism Summit, which took place yesterday at ATM. The country’s Vision 2030, a bold plan that aims to attract 100 million visitors to the kingdom annually by 2030, was the focal point.
Chief Executive Officer of Saudi Tourism Authority, Fahd Hamidaddin, and other key players fronted an engaged audience on the event’s Global Stage with stunning pictures of the destination as the backdrop.
Hamidaddin emphasised that the benefits of the plan would be far reaching. “I think this is not about tourism,” he said. “This is about the new Saudi Arabia.”
He highlighted the kingdom’s varied offerings, including its potential as a winter destination for sustainable travel to the Arabian dunes, a summer escape to the Arabian mountains in the south or the Red Sea in the north and as a cultural trip encompassing sites like AlUla.
In a historical move, the kingdom opened its doors for the first time to international tourists in October 2019, prior to the pandemic changing the travel industry and the world. Majed Bin Ayed Alnefaie, Acting CEO at Seera
Jumeirah Al Qasr
Group, the largest travel and tourism group in the MENA region, said that the timing of the crisis inspired a valuable internal interest in the country.
“We wish to restart because we now have high demand from domestic travellers looking to explore their country and we are also seeing a lot of interest from international visitors.”
Saudia Airlines CEO, Captain Ibrahim Koshy, said that he expected strong demand in domestic travel to be followed by a significant increase in international traffic visiting Saudi Arabia. This will be boosted by the new regional hub at Jeddah Airport following the country resuming international flights on May 17. “We foresee demand becoming much bigger and stronger by 2024,” he said.
“Don’t be too surprised if you see aircraft purchases being made to meet that demand.”
Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa to debut this summer
Welcoming visitors from August 1, 2021, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is a 154-villa resort nestled on the island of Thilamaafushi in the southeastern region of the Lhaviyani Atoll. Spanning nine hectares, the island is an eco-conscious resort enveloped by a lagoon and coral reefs with vibrant marine life, including rays and turtles.
Every aspect of the resort’s design takes cues from the Paris-born brand’s mid-century design aesthetic and European heritage, presented through a Maldivian lens. The property makes the most of its surrounds by celebrating the destination’s iconic flat lagoons, endless blues and pristine beaches. Guests are encouraged to indulge in the simple pleasures of life, where wandering without agenda and lingering longer is encouraged.
Each villa unites the concept of art and industrial design with clean lines and a muted colour palette. A selection of one- and two-bedroom villas are tucked amongst the tropical landscape and dotted over the Indian Ocean. Families and bigger groups will enjoy the Thilamaafushi Villa, a three-bedroom villa set in its own alcove of the island on the beach.
Guests will be able to dine at six restaurants, showcasing global tastes and locally harvested produce, and also enjoy treatments from sustainable international brands at Explore Spa by Le Méridien.
Families can take advantage of the Le Méridien Family and Kids’ Hub, with programming that includes nature trails, a mini marine conservation programme, folklore storytelling, sustainable art classes, micro-green planting in the greenhouse, family foraging and cooking classes.
The resort also presents a boutique lifestyle space that features an oceanfacing fitness studio and yoga pavilion as well as an interactive art studio for guests to stay inspired during their travel.
VISIT STAND AS3350
Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa
In an effort to further bolster ties with the Middle East, Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) announced that it will establish an office in Dubai in 2021. The move is in keeping with the country’s strategic efforts to achieve the Japanese government’s goal of welcoming 60 million international visitors to Japan by 2030.
The new establishment is the first by JNTO to open in the Middle East. It will serve as a focal point for the organisation’s promotional efforts in showcasing Japan as a preferred travel destination for residents in the region.
Through its efforts, the Japanese tourism board has positioned the Middle East as a priority market and will continue to promote tourism exchange between the two. Japan’s participation in ATM 2021 is also part of its promotional efforts for the year. A key objective for JNTO at the event will be generating awareness of Japan’s unique and diverse tourist attractions amongst the region’s leading travel and media professionals.
JNTO President Satoshi Seino, said: “JNTO is proud to open an office in Dubai this year, which will be the first office to open in the whole Middle East by JNTO.
“Japan is a country with a long history, abundant nature and a unique culture. We are internationally renowned for our delicious cuisine, beaches, skiing, pop culture, shopping and historic wooden architecture, such as shrines and temples. A trip to Japan will surely be an unforgettable and special experience. To all in the Middle East, we look forward to welcoming you to Japan.”
VISIT STAND AS3560
Speaking at the ATM 2021 press conference earlier this month, Dubai Tourism CEO Issam Kazim revealed that the emirate welcomed around 1.26 million visitors since January 2021.
While 2020 was a challenging year for global travel, Kazim noted that the timely measures taken by Dubai to curb the spread of COVID-19 enabled the city and the country to reopen swiftly and safely. In spite of global travel restrictions, Dubai recorded 5.5 million visitors in 2020, although this indicates a significant drop from 2019 levels.
The emirate closed 2019 with a record 16.7 million visitors. January and February 2020 also got off to a great start with record numbers indicating a growth of 4.2 percent during the first two months of the year before border closures came into effect in March.
Kazim shared that the city is optimistic about the numbers for the year as the emirate celebrates the Golden Jubilee of the formation of the UAE and more importantly, Expo 2020 Dubai is set to open its doors in less than five months.
Kazim also said that the various schemes launched after the pandemic, such as the retirement visa programme and the student visa programme, and strategies to attract professionals and entrepreneurs have also contributed to this growth.
Emirates and Flydubai build on Dubai’s connectivity
Dubai-based carriers Emirates and Flydubai are delivering on their promise to reintroduce more convenience, choice and seamless connectivity for travellers across their combined network, which is expected to reach 168 destinations by the end of May.
Since the revival of their strategic codeshare partnership in early September 2020, close to 500,000 passengers have flown on the combined Emirates-Flydubai network, taking advantage of optimised schedules, connections and baggage transfers through Dubai, all on a single ticket. Top destinations booked through the codeshare include Kabul, Kathmandu, Kyiv, the Maldives and Zanzibar.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Group and Chairman of Flydubai, said: “The Emirates and Flydubai partnership continues to grow steadily to offer travellers even better connectivity to Dubai and through Dubai to an extensive global network. We are seeing strong customer take-up and are excited to take the partnership to the next level by expanding services to new destinations.
“The close collaboration between Emirates and Flydubai also benefits Dubai as a business, leisure and aviation hub with enhanced connectivity and travel flows from the combined network of both carriers as it continues to safely welcome visitors from around the world. We are confident that both airlines will rebuild their networks even better, as they chart the path to recovery.”
Emirates customers can travel on codeshare flights to over 56 unique Flydubai destinations, while Flydubai customers can choose from over 82 Emirates destinations. Customers can also take advantage of an enhanced schedule spread across 30 destinations served by both airlines. Both airlines continue to layer on a greater range of flight schedules with 16 additional countries set to open for international tourism with quarantine-free entry.
Customers connecting via Dubai to their final destination can also look forward to a smooth transfer experience with reduced connection times between Emirates’ Terminal 3 and Flydubai’s operations in Terminal 2.
VISIT STAND ME3310, ME2410
Nirvana Holding aims to increase international footprint
Nirvana Holding, the UAE-based travel and tourism management company, aims to expand its operations internationally through its participation in Arabian Travel Market. The company currently comprises four entities, including Nirvana Travel & Tourism, Nirvana Over the World, Nirvana Tours & Logistics Services and Nirvana Global Travel.
According to Alaa Al Ali, CEO of Nirvana Holding: “We are proud to participate in such a prestigious global event. ATM is the best occasion to introduce our new services covering all travel and tourism needs worldwide. We are confident that our services will add value and energise the travel and tourism industry. Our state-of-the-art offerings are well planned based on the needs of our clients locally and internationally.”
Nirvana Holding was established in January 2021 in the UAE and has since expanded its operations within the region and beyond to include Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt and India.
Barceló Hotel Group reinforces its commitment to Expo 2020 Dubai at ATM
Barceló Hotel Group announced its partnership with Acción Cultural España (AC/E) at ATM to support Spanish travellers and organisations arriving in Dubai for Expo 2020 Dubai. The company has signed an agreement with the Spanish government organisation, responsible for Spain’s presence in international exhibitions, to become a key collaborator of the Spanish Pavilion at the World Expo.
The agreement strengthens Barceló Hotel Group’s commitment to representing Spain on the international level, offering its 90-year hospitality legacy to travellers, including Spanish delegates arriving in the UAE for Expo 2020 Dubai.
Raul Gonzalez, CEO EMEA of Barceló Hotel Group, stated: “We are extremely honoured to collaborate with AC/E for Expo 2020 Dubai and the signing of this agreement emphasises Barceló Hotel Group’s commitment to promoting the image of Spain and continued support for the recognition of our country at international level.”
Barceló Hotel Group operates three of their four hospitality brands in the UAE – Royal Hideaway, Barceló and Occidental. The group’s diversified portfolio includes five operating properties and 1,600 keys in Dubai and Sharjah.
José Canals, Managing Director Middle East and Asia Barceló Hotel Group said: “We have always been focused on enhancing our presence in the Middle East source markets and this agreement has allowed us to collaborate with AC/E and support them in representing the Spanish culture and heritage at the highest international level.”
Thailand aims to instil confidence in MENA travellers at ATM
The Tourism Authority of Thailand is highlighting its efforts in ensuring the health and safety of travellers from the region at ATM.
During the event, the country outlined key updates to travel partners vaccinated travellers to Phuket. To instil confidence in travellers, the country recently announced a vaccination programme to achieve herd immunity for 70 percent of Phuket’s population.
“Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Thailand has taken strides to inspire confidence and ensure readiness to welcome back travellers from the Middle East,” said Pichaya Saisaengchan, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand for Dubai and the Middle East.
“We look forward to sharing our progress during ATM this year. It is the ideal trade event to interact with our stakeholders, forge new relationships and promote the destination to our partners and potential travellers in the region.”
As part of its efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus, the Tourism Authority of Thailand collaborated with public and private sector partners to introduce the ‘Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration’ certification, aimed at elevating the country’s tourism industry standards and developing confidence among tourists, including visitors from the Middle East.
Since then, over 8,000 businesses throughout the country passed the assessment and received the certification. The programme has now been certified to be on par with the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Safe Travels stamp.
as it looks to reignite its tourism sector and reopen its borders.
Prior to the pandemic, Thailand welcomed over 39 million visitors annually, of which over 550,000 were from the MENA region. Since closing its borders at the start of the pandemic, plans are in place to welcome international visitors to the country in phases without the need to quarantine.
By the third quarter of 2021, Thailand aims to welcome fully
VISIT STAND AS3505
NH Hotels announces upcoming Middle East debut
NH Dubai The Palm is set to make its Middle East debut later this year. Currently in the final stages of development, the property will become the first from the NH Hotels brand to launch in the region when it opens in December 2021.
Located on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah, the new-build 533-key property will be part of Seven Hotels & Apartments, a mixed-use development consisting of a hospitality tower and a residential tower.
The hotel will be adjacent to Nakheel Mall and within close proximity to the Palm Fountain at The Pointe, which launched recently as the world’s largest fountain. Dubai’s other key tourist attractions, including Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina, will also be within easy reach.
The new 14-storey property will offer 227 guest rooms and suites, in addition to 306 serviced apartments. Facilities will include multiple dining venues, three spa treatment rooms, four meeting rooms, a kids’ club, fitness centre and rooftop infinity pool.
Another key feature of the hotel will be a large multi-purpose co-working space to tap into the growing ‘workation’ trend.
Belarus makes ATM debut
Exhibiting for the first time at ATM 2021, Belarus welcomes travel professionals to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage and natural wonders. Also presenting their offering at the stand is the country’s national airline, Belavia, hotel industry players and travel agencies.
In February 2021, Belavia launched direct flights from Dubai to the Belarusian capital, Minsk, offering a fast and convenient travel route to the Eastern European country. The airline currently operates three flights a week with prices starting from US$435 for a round trip.
Located six hours from Dubai, Belarus is an appealing destination for visitors from the UAE, especially during summer when daily temperatures in Belarus average 18°C. UAE citizens do not need a visa to enter Belarus and can stay in the country for up to 90 days without quarantine.
Joining the stand at ATM are travel agencies, VS Global and Prime Tour, as well as Renaissance Minsk Hotel to highlight bespoke packages for all types of travellers.
Philippines showcases destination diversity at ATM
With more than 7,000 islands to showcase, the Philippines is celebrating the diversity of its tourism landscape at Arabian Travel Market 2021.
The archipelago was recently listed by Forbes as one of seven countries with the potential to become a major travel destination once COVID-19 is contained.
Boasting everything from sandy shores and historical sites, the country is preparing to host people from around the globe, inviting them to experience what makes the Philippines a memorable travel destination for visitors of all ages and interests.
Among the highlights, Baguio, referred to as the “The City of Pines”, is renowned for its pine trees and cool weather and is especially popular with locals looking to escape the heat.
Meanwhile, in the province of Benguet, a number of eco- and agrotourism destinations are taking shape, allowing visitors to enjoy activities such as lemon and strawberry picking to help them reconnect with nature.
In the town of Paoay, the sand dunes lend themselves to an array of desert experiences with activities like sandboarding, ATV and 4x4 truck riding.
For history buffs, the St. Augustine Parish Church, better known as Paoay Church, is one of the oldest Catholic churches in the Philippines and in Asia built in the 1600s. This UNESCO Heritage site has maintained its architectural charm through regular upkeep.
A visit to the Philippines would not be complete without a trip to the beach. The island of Boracay is one of the most famous beach destinations in the world. After intensive rehabilitation projects on the island, which began in 2019 and continued throughout 2020, a number of hotels, restaurants and other establishments are now ready to serve guests looking to enjoy island life.
The diving spots of Anilao in Mabini, Batangas are popular with tourists during diving season from November to May.
VISIT STAND AS3220
We missed you! Meet us at ATM on stand HC0720.
At Rotana, we believe time well spent, is a life well lived. This enduring thought is at the heart of every experience we promise when you stay with us. Our distinct collection of brands include Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana, Centro Hotels, Resorts and Hotel Apartments by Rotana, Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts by Rotana and The Residences by Rotana. Transform moments into memorable experiences as we present a selection of diverse destinations, ideal for every journey. To find out more, visit rotana.com Treasured time. Our promise to you. P.O. Box 95100, Abu Dhabi, UAE. T: +971 (0) 2 699 4444 F: +971 (0) 2 699 4445, head.office@rotana.com
Rotana reaffirms commitment to sustainable hospitality
Rotana announced the removal of single-use plastic toiletries across its hotel rooms. The move is part of Rotana’s ongoing commitment to reduce its environmental impact and strengthen its efforts to combat plastic pollution.
Commencing in the UAE in April 2021, with full deployment across the Middle East scheduled for June, the initiative is a significant step in the group’s long-term sustainability efforts.
This change is expected to result in the elimination of more than 17 million plastic bottles a year and a reduction of more than 100 tons of plastic annually. Furthermore, the transition is set to positively impact logistics by reducing the carton packaging involved in the shipping and storage of room amenities.
Guy Hutchinson, President and CEO, Rotana, said: “Sustainability lies at the heart of Rotana’s operations. Our legacy is founded on a longstanding commitment to being a responsible and sustainable business with a culture of integrity, transparency and accountability embedded in every aspect of our company.”
The decision to remove single-use plastic toiletries is another bold move in Rotana’s ongoing journey as a leading sustainable hospitality brand. In previous years, Rotana replaced several singleuse plastic items, including, but not limited to, straws, containers, plastic bottles and packaging across its hotels.
As a key pillar in its sustainability initiatives under Rotana Earth – the company’s Global Corporate Sustainability Platform launched in 2013 – the group also focuses on reducing waste and energy across all areas of the hotel’s operations.
Rotana also exercises responsible procurement as part of its supplier programme, encouraging hotels to use a greater level of locally sourced products. “Sustainability is not just a rising travel trend, but a priority for a growing number of environmentally and socially conscious travellers. Sustainable development is vital for the hospitality and tourism industry’s survival in the age of the new normal.”
This year, Rotana marks its 24th successive year of participating in Arabian Travel Market.
While highlighting its sustainability efforts, the homegrown company is also shedding light on its developing and dynamic hospitality portfolio in the region and beyond.
Rotana currently operates 68 hotels in 24 cities across 14 countries, including an impressive 10,012 keys across 36 hotels in the UAE. The group’s pipeline consists of 10 upcoming projects that will deliver more than 2,923 keys to the market, with hotels set to open in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and Turkey.
VISIT STAND HC0720
Jumeirah Group announced three key appointments across three of its GCC hotels in recognition of the team members’ leadership, insightful guidance and sound industry expertise.
Marcus Sutton takes on the role of General Manager at Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens, following three years at Jumeirah Emirates Towers as Hotel Manager and then General Manager.
In his new role, he will lead the team at the vibrant property, driving engagement and interest within the local and international markets, in addition to heading up the commercial strategy of the property.
Kirti Anchan will be stepping into the role of General Manager at Jumeirah Emirates Towers. The promotion recognises his extensive experience with the Jumeirah brand, having joined the group in 2004, as well as his unwavering dedication in his most recent role as Hotel Manager of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. He will be responsible to drive the success of the contemporary city hotel, offering exclusivity and unparalleled service to both business and leisure travellers.
To head up the operations of Jumeirah Muscat Bay, Oman, due to open later this year, Jumeirah Group has appointed Luke James to the role of General Manager. The first Jumeirah hotel to open in Oman, James will oversee its 206 spacious suites and rooms, state-of-the-art Talise Spa and numerous dining venues, set against incredible views of the Gulf of Oman and the mountains beyond.
James has risen through the ranks of Jumeirah Group, joining as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, in 2008. He went on to become Director of Operations at Jumeirah Creekside Hotel in 2016, before moving to his latest role of General Manager at Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens.
Jose Silva, CEO of Jumeirah Group, said: “At Jumeirah Group, we believe in recognising our talent and ensuring professional growth. These appointments speak to our culture of excellence and our commitment to developing the careers of our colleagues. I am confident in the capabilities of the appointed GMs in continuing our successful journey and look forward to seeing them lead their teams to further innovate the luxurious guest experience that Jumeirah Group is known for, through service beyond expectations, exquisite dining and bringing to life our breathtaking destinations.”
