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Exhibitor news
Rotana on track for further expansion in the Middle East
Homegrown hospitality brand Rotana recently announced its three-year expansion plan, unveiling significant new additions to its burgeoning portfolio of hotels by 2023.
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Comprising eight new developments in the region, Rotana will launch its properties in the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey. The move will deliver more than 2,650 keys to the recovering hospitality industry in the Middle East.
Guy Hutchinson, President and CEO at Rotana, said: “Building on this momentum and leveraging our highly effective core business model, inherent operational strength and our sustainable blueprint for regional expansion, Rotana is well positioned for continued growth and success in 2021 and beyond.”
The expansion plan will see Rotana continue to consolidate its portfolio in the UAE as the company forecasts a positive year for the domestic industry.
“We are extremely confident that the UAE will remain one of the safest countries in the world for domestic and international travel. With the launch of the first federal domestic tourism campaign boosting the country’s local tourism contribution to more than AED80 billion, coupled with the vigorous nationwide vaccine drive and steady growth in inbound tourism, the outlook for the industry is bright.”
In Dubai, Rotana signed a hotel management agreement, which will see the brand open a new property in 2023, adding 295 keys to the group’s number of residential and hospitality units in the emirate.
In Saudi Arabia, a five-star Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts property will be added to the Rotana portfolio in the third quarter of 2021. Located in Jubail, the 407-key property will represent the group’s eighth hotel operating in the kingdom.
Under its hybrid hotel and residence brand – Residences by Rotana – the group will launch a 483-key property in Bahrain’s capital city of Manama in 2022, offering branded residences for the long-stay market. Another option for long-stay travellers, Manama will also see the launch of the 220-key Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana, with a planned opening date of 2023.
Rotana has also penned two deals in Qatar, with the aim of supporting the country’s vision to attract seven million visitors by 2030. The group recently took over the management of the 250-key Sedra Arjaan by Rotana, located in Doha, and also signed a hotel management agreement under the Centro Hotels brand, with a 350-key property set to open in 2023.
Further extending its footprint in the European side of Istanbul, Rotana will also be managing two new properties in the city. Bomonti Arjaan by Rotana and Bomonti Residences by Rotana will offer 650 units to guests when it opens in 2022.
Al Bandar Rotana - Creek
VISIT STAND HC0720
Germany to showcase tax-free shopping destination at ATM
Outletcity Metzingen will once again showcase its highlights at ATM 2021. Exhibiting with the German National Tourist Board, this unique shopping destination in the southern region of Germany will offer attendees insight into the latest developments at the venue.
A tax-free shopping haven, Outletcity Metzingen offers visitors a choice of 130 premium and luxury brands, including the largest Hugo Boss outlet store in the world. Its unique set-up makes it a “true city of fashion” with flagship outlets housed amid the venue’s award-winning architecture.
Apart from the world-class shopping, Metzingen is also home to a historic town centre and is set amidst the Swabian Alb Biosphere Reserve, which was honoured by UNESCO in 2009 for its natural significance.
Developments taking shape at the destination include a new restaurant, Enzian Hoefe, which will open its doors this summer, and a new flagship outlet housing sports brand Adidas.
The venue will also debut its VIP shopping package for international visitors, which will offer customers greater flexibility during their stay, additional discounts and other benefits.
Sales and Tourism Manager, Angela Rieger, said: “The GCC region is among our top five international source markets. During the summer months, people from the region love to visit us and enjoy our tax-free shopping.
“Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Outletcity Metzingen was welcoming around 4.2 million visitors from around 185 countries per year. We hope that travel will be safe again and visitors can return soon. As travel connections are very good between the GCC and our airports in Munich and Frankfurt, we hope that guests from the GCC will soon be shopping at Outletcity Metzingen again.
“ATM is the platform to establish new connections with the travel trade and maintain relationships with existing partners. Our aim is to further establish Outletcity Metzingen as a destination for travellers from the GCC and a good add-on to any trip to southern Germany.”
AlUla Old Town reopens to visitors
Elephant Rock
Following a three-year hiatus for extensive restoration and conservation work, AlUla Old Town has reopened to domestic visitors from Saudi Arabia.
The restored site is one of four significant heritage sites in AlUla, once the home of ancient civilisations in the kingdom, dating back to the 10th century. It is now officially open as a year-round tourism precinct, offering a rich cultural experience to visitors from around the country and the world.
The town is estimated to have been established in the 12th century and was inhabited from then until the 1980s. For almost 40 years after the last residents left in favour of more modern housing, the site continued to remain open to its former residents and visitors. However, over the years, environmental damage took its toll.
In 2017, the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) decided to close the site to visitors and announced restoration plans, which have since then focused on remedial conservation in accordance with UNESCO principles and international standards for the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites.
The latest phase of the project commenced in November 2019 and the conserved area is now open to visitors. The Incense Road running adjacent to the town has also been activated and is now a vibrant area for shopping, eating and entertainment. Once fully complete, it will offer more dining options, an extensive marketplace, family entertainment and a handicrafts pavilion.
Phillip Jones, Chief Destination Management and Marketing Officer, RCU, said: “AlUla Old Town is an important chapter in AlUla’s journey through time. The site is key to the understanding, continuity and evolution of the historic routes for trade and pilgrimage that made AlUla such a significant destination until the 20th century as it is for visitors again today.”
VISIT STAND ME4410, ME4440, ME4408
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
Visit Maldives launches “I’m Vaccinated” tourism campaign
Maldives
Maldives
Visit Maldives, together with the Ministry of Tourism, launched its “I’m Vaccinated” campaign to share a positive message regarding the vaccination of staff working in the tourism sector.
This new strategy aligns with the initiatives undertaken to ensure that the Maldives remains one of the safest destinations in the world for travellers.
Under this campaign, the Maldives aims to become the first fully vaccinated tourism sector in the world. Thanks to the unique geographical formation of the islands, the country naturally offers physical distancing, which is a boon for the post-pandemic era. In addition, stringent health and safety measures have been in place since the country first reopened to tourists in 2020 after the first phase of global lockdowns. Now, a fully vaccinated tourism sector will become an added advantage, encouraging tourists to visit the destination.
During the announcement, Minister of Tourism, Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, praised the effort and hard work of the staff serving in the Maldivian health and tourism industries and stated that being able to provide vaccines to members in the tourism sector was a huge accomplishment. Over 65 percent of the eligible Maldivian population has received the vaccine and over 90 percent of the eligible tourism industry is vaccinated.
Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), Thoyyib Mohamed stated that the purpose of the “I’m Vaccinated” campaign was to promote vaccination for all members in the tourism industry and for the Maldives to have the first fully vaccinated tourism industry in the world.
Through its efforts, the country hopes that the campaign will uplift the destination’s status in the global market and reassure travellers that the Maldives will remain one of the safest destinations to travel to during the pandemic.
VISIT STAND AS3350
Staying true to its sustainable luxury ethos, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara has launched a host of new initiatives. The resort’s efforts have earned it a Gold status in the Green Growth Awards, which cover a wide range of CSR goals, from environmental stewardship to health and safety.
The resort has completely phased out plastic water bottles, replacing them with biodegradable bottles made from corn which degrades in 80 days. Recycled in biodegradable bins, it either goes to composting or is reused to make new plant resin bottles. This builds on its 2018 milestone of going 100 percent plastic straw free.
Solar panels have been installed at the property and the harnessed energy is used for laundry requirements and the provision of hot water in all guest rooms and villas.
The move helped reduce the use of electricity by up to 80 percent and save an estimated 97,000 kilowatt-hours per month.
Making strides towards zero waste, the kitchens at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara now make their own compost for the on-site vegetable greenhouse and herb gardens, which in turn supply organic produce for signature items on the menu.
The resort now also uses 100 percent of its grey water to irrigate its gardens, while cardboard, oil, paper and bars of soap are all recycled.
Guests staying at the resort are also encouraged to do their part to help protect the environment through various programmes for smart water and power usage. To further encourage responsible travel, visitors arriving in electric cars will find complimentary car charging stations at the resort, which have recently been installed.
Yas Island theme parks introduce FacePass
Yas Island
Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading curator of visitor experiences, announced that Yas Island is on track to become a fully contactless destination through the adoption of FacePass. This cutting-edge contactless technology is part of Miral’s digital transformation strategy for Yas Island.
Rolled out in phases across the island, it will streamline guest experiences using facial recognition, with the theme parks on Yas Island leading the way as the first attractions in the region to adopt FacePass. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral, said: “We are thrilled to be pioneering the adoption of FacePass technology within the regional leisure and entertainment industry and delivering on our promise of creating a world-class wall-less destination using the latest technology.
“The theme parks will be the first in the region to implement complete contactless access and payment solutions. This cutting-edge functionality is in line with our digital transformation strategy and a testament to achieving our vision of positioning Yas Island as a top global destination for entertainment, leisure and business.”
Set to become the latest trend in the in-destination experience industry, this kind of contactless technology is the future for all consumer-facing businesses. Not only does it save time and provide unrivalled convenience, it largely enhances guest safety and wellbeing through touchless interaction.
Theme park guests can expect a fully integrated experience as the technology is facilitated by the Yas Island mobile app and linked to the ticketing systems and turnstiles at the parks, allowing guests and annual pass holders contactless access at points of entry and contactless payment via facial recognition across select retail and dining outlets.
This roll-out also includes wristbands for guests of Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, which they can use to unlock their hotel rooms, access the theme parks and more with just a simple touch.
The long-term digital transformation for Yas Island will see FacePass technology integrated into all of Yas Island’s assets, from access points for residential and communal areas to retail and dining destinations.
VISIT STAND ME2250, ME2115
Red Sea Development Company secures first-ever riyal-denominated Green Finance credit facility
The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism project, announced that it has closed a US$3.76 billion term loan facility and revolving credit facility with four Saudi banks.
The company also achieved Green Financing accreditation, thanks to its standard-setting approach to regenerative tourism as well as for its social and environmental sustainability efforts. The financing is the first riyaldenominated credit facility to receive Green Financing accreditation.
John Pagano, CEO, TRSDC, said: “The scale of this project is unmatched anywhere in the world and we are setting new standards in regenerative tourism at every turn. By applying a unique approach to design, utilising more sustainable methods of construction and using groundbreaking technology, we are not only reducing our impact on the environment but also helping to deliver on our commitment to achieve a 30 percent net conservation benefit by 2040. It is this pioneering approach that has helped us secure the first-ever riyal-denominated Green Finance credit facility.
“We aim to lead the international luxury tourism industry’s transformation into a more sustainable model, including environmental and social sustainability. This Green Finance classification is proof that we are setting new standards in ecotourism and showing the industry that things can be done in a different way both here in the kingdom and globally.”
The Red Sea Project
Upon completion in 2030, The Red Sea Project will comprise 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also include luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment and leisure facilities. It has already passed significant milestones and work is on track to welcome the first guests by the end of 2022 when the international airport and the first hotels will open.
VISIT STAND ME4410, ME4440, ME4408
John Pagano
Hospitality Management Holding appoints new COO
Michael Zager
Homegrown group Hospitality Management Holding (HMH) has named Michael Zager as its new Chief Operating Officer.
Industry veteran Zager, who has previously worked with IHG Hotels & Resorts and Wyndham Hotel Group, brings with him a strong track record of portfolio growth across the hospitality world.
In 30 years of his hospitality career, he has proven his proficiency in hotel management by driving growth through the leadership roles he has held. Not only has he overseen several hotel launches across the UAE but he also helped develop successful hotel operating procedures.
Founded in Dubai in 2003, HMH has a strong portfolio of properties across various brands, including Bahi Hotels & Resorts, Coral Hotels & Resorts, Corp Hotels, EWA Hotel Apartments and ECOS Hotels.
VISIT STAND HC0530
The View at the Palm is now open
The View at the Palm Developed by Nakheel, the View at the Palm, an observation deck that showcases a 360-degree view of Palm Jumeirah, is now open to the public. Visitors can purchase their tickets and experience Palm Jumeirah like never before while learning more about the history of this man-made island at multiple immersive touchpoints.
The View will be part of the larger Palm Tower development, which is set to open in October this year. The tower will be home to The View Exhibition, which will encompass a timeline of the Palm Jumeirah project, along with interactive aquarium tunnels and a gift shop.
Visitors can also experience an immersive theatre that takes them through the groundbreaking history of the island. Towering 240 metres over Palm Jumeirah, level 52 holds the observation deck, which promises spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai skyline and the island.
Omar Khoory, Chief Assets and Hospitality Officer, Nakheel, said: “20 years ago, Nakheel embarked on a journey to bring the vision of Palm Jumeirah to life and today, we celebrate its growing success story by launching the View at the Palm. As Nakheel continues to add innovative destinations to its ever-growing retail portfolio, we hope that these experiences will inspire wonder to visitors of all ages and backgrounds.”
Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism), said: “The View at the Palm marks
The Palm Tower
another major milestone for Dubai’s tourism industry and adds to the city’s range of diverse offerings that residents and visitors can enjoy.
“The significance of the solid relationships that we have built over the years with our stakeholders and partners like Nakheel is clearly evident in the construction of this new landmark on the world-renowned Palm Jumeirah, providing visitors the opportunity to enjoy unforgettable experiences in one of the world’s safest cities.”
The View at the Palm also offers an exclusive VIP lounge that spans 120 square metres and features an outdoor terrace with spectacular views of the island, sea and city.
VISIT STAND ME3110, ME3140, ME2520
Mauritius to provide free vaccines to long-term visitors
The government of Mauritius announced that it will offer free COVID-19 vaccinations to long-term visitors. The move establishes the island nation as the first country in the world to include travellers for free in its inoculation drive.
To be eligible to receive the OxfordAstraZeneca Covishield vaccine in Mauritius, visitors must be above the age of 18 and hold a premium visa. The move to offer free vaccines to travellers follows the country’s decision to allow visitors to renew their premium visas for free.
The premium visa allows international visitors to spend up to a year in the country and renew the term at no further cost. To qualify for the visa programme, visitors are required to book their stay for no less than 180 days. Confirmed flight tickets to the republic and proof of adequate health insurance will also be required to successfully complete the application process.
Located off the eastern coast of Africa and surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Mauritius relies heavily on tourism as one of the mainstays of its economy. In the wake of the pandemic, the country rolled out the Mauritius Premium Visa programme to attract digital nomads, remote working professionals and retirees.
The expanded vaccination drive is part of the island nation’s national campaign to allow for a complete reopening of its international borders. On May 1, 2021, Mauritius announced an easing of confinement, allowing public spaces to reopen as well as a number of public activities and the use of public transport to resume. The tourism industry, however, is preparing for the reopening of borders later this year.
VISIT STAND AS3012
Emaar debuts first Vida resort in Umm Al Quwain
Armani Hotel Dubai presents first-ever kosher restaurant
Following the historic peace treaty between the UAE and Israel in 2020, Armani Hotel Dubai became the first hospitality brand in the emirate to launch a kosher dining venue.
To cater to the influx of visitors from Israel that the city witnessed in the months following the signing of the Abraham Accords, the restaurant – Armani/Kaf – led the way in establishing dining services for Jewish travellers.
Armani/Kaf specialises in kosher cuisine that complies with Jewish dietary laws. The venue is currently operated under the supervision of Rabbi Levi Duchman, Rabbi of the UAE, who has certified the venue with Glatt Kosher and Pas Yisroel certifications from the Emirates Kosher Supervising Agency, the only UAE-based kosher certification authority.
Thomas Peruzzo, General Manager, Armani Hotel Dubai, said: “As a market leader in establishing services for Jewish travellers, we look forward to developing further relationships with Israeli visitors.”
VISIT STAND HC0120
Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain
Homegrown hospitality giant, Emaar Hospitality Group, launched its first resort under the Vida Hotels and Resorts brand in Umm Al Quwain.
Located on the beachfront of the UAE’s least populated emirate, Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain adds 135 keys to the emirate’s local hospitality scene. The new resort is also pet-friendly, plugging the gap in the animal-friendly hotel market in the UAE.
Each of the 135 rooms and suites at the resort feature sleek furnishings, advanced in-room technology, complimentary Wi-Fi access and a 24-hour concierge service. The hotel also offers eight chalets, all located on the beach, featuring a spacious living room, two bedrooms and a private outdoor area.
Dining outlets at the resort include Stage2, Origins and SoCal, serving an array of global flavours, while leisure facilities include extensive options for water sports, beach access, an expansive pool and a spa.
VISIT STAND HC0120
Origins, Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain Thomas Peruzzo
Flydubai marks 10th year of participation in ATM
Hamad Obaidalla
Dubai-based carrier, Flydubai, is celebrating 10 years since the airline first participated in Arabian Travel Market. Since commencing operations on June 1, 2009, the carrier has gone from strength to strength and the pandemic has not slowed down its momentum.
In 2012, Flydubai participated for the first time in ATM, showcasing its innovations and expanding global network across its two-storey stand. And this year, during the event’s 28th edition, the carrier will throw the spotlight on its COVID-19 safety protocols.
Hamad Obaidalla, Chief Commercial Officer, Flydubai, said: “ATM is an important event for the inbound and outbound travel industry in the Middle East. We are delighted to be back at the show as this marks our 10th year participating in ATM.
“At our stand, we look forward to showcasing some of the newest destinations to join our network and to sharing with visitors the COVID-19 precautionary measures that we have implemented throughout our customer journey.”
The airline will also highlight the return of the Boeing 737 MAX to the skies. “With our Boeing 737 MAX aircraft approved to return to the skies, we are reintroducing the product, which includes a spacious lie flat bed in business class, an ergonomically designed seat in economy class and in-flight entertainment with full HD touchscreens.”
This year also marks the third anniversary of Holidays by Flydubai, the group’s holidays division, which was announced at the 2017 edition of Arabian Travel Market.
