Arabian Travel Market - Show Dailies - Day 4

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1 OCTOBER 2021 - 31 MARCH 2022

Part of

DAY 4

AN EXPO FOR EVERYONE

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W E D 1 9 M AY

Open doors

Destinations buoyed at the prospect of a fresh new era on the final day of ATM 2021

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Welcome

Travel forward through technology

Contents 04 | News 14 | Welcoming the world

Expo 2020 Dubai offers something for everyone

16 | Virtual perspectives

Discover ATM Virtual 2021 18 | Seminar schedule 24 | Cultural connection

Heritage sites in the region 26 | Destination profiles 30 | Vox pops 15

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As the sun begins to set on the in-person component of this year’s Arabian Travel Market, its theme ‘A New Dawn for Travel and Tourism’ could not be more poignant.

As the first large-scale faceto-face travel industry event to be held since the pandemic began, it marks the beginning of the sector’s resurgence.

Today is also the final day of the inaugural Travel Forward – the leading global event for travel technology – hosted as part of ATM in Dubai. With technology increasingly becoming a vital part of the industry’s recovery and sustainability into the future, the discussions have been a welcome inclusion to the programme.

Arabian Travel Market Exhibition Director ME, Danielle Curtis, said: “Travel technology is integral to our hybrid format this year. The use of technology is accelerating across all industry sectors, none more so than the travel sector.”

Highlights from the Travel Forward Theatre over the first three days included seminars on the application of technology in the new reality, how insights can be converted into successes for accommodation providers and in-depth research applicable to Destination Marketing Organisations (DMOs).

On Day 3 of the event, Tom Starr, Vice President of Global Sales at global travel technology giant, Amadeus, observed that digital data could provide valuable insight and discussed how in this new era, more than ever, DMOs needed

to understand travel trends and traveller desires to cut through the increased competition, combined with decreased demand, that is forecast as travel corridors reopen.

He said: “Monitoring and understanding these types of trends means that destinations can adapt their service, their activities, launch special promotions or campaigns to tap into the new source of demand and interest.

“Consumers feel ready and excited. What we want to do is ensure that destinations

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can secure consumer confidence and be well placed when the demand for travel inevitably returns.

“Rebuilding travel starts with that initial booking that will be later followed by travelling to and experiencing a beautiful destination. By utilising data, we want to show that every market can benefit from reassuring messaging and inspiration as well as commercial activities.

It’s all about the right type of message delivered to the right user at the right moment in time,” Starr concluded.

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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 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.

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Hotels regenerate in a changing world The hotel industry has demonstrated its agility in response to pandemicdriven trends, with many establishments being forced to implement innovative changes to meet their guests’ needs and expectations.

A panel of experienced hoteliers outlined how they had reinvented their hospitality offering on Day 3 of this year’s first Hotel Industry Summit and agreed that at the top of the agenda in the foreseeable future was adapting to the high priority for people to feel safe and enjoy new experiences whether travelling for business meetings, to work, for leisure or to temporarily live abroad.

Mark Kirby, Head of Hospitality, Emaar Hospitality Group, said: “I think what’s changing in the hotels now is that people are really wanting to feel safe. You also hear of revenge tourism, where people are wanting to come out and do something different.

So, our staycations have adapted to have experiences within them.”

He shared that he has witnessed a shift in demand towards larger suites to accommodate families on staycations or those who wished to stay for longer periods.

Jochem-Jan Sleiffer, President of Hilton in the Middle East, Africa & Turkey, stated that the group’s hotels would continue to focus on safety and had therefore also altered the design of its lobbies. Sleiffer said: “I think the

lobbies have traditionally been a place where people would just wait for a taxi or wait for a friend. In countries which are opening, we have seen people anxious to get out again and conduct business meetings and one-on-one meetings or just have a place to work. So our new lobbies are a far more interactive place to actually do those things.”

The session’s other panelists, Fettah Tamince, Founder and Chairman of Rixos Hotels, and Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality, discussed the importance of creating community in locations where their hotels operated and also highlighted the value of establishing multi-use facilities to cater to a range of travellers.

Diriyah cultural tourism project to attract 27 million visitors annually As part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 to reduce the kingdom’s dependence on oil, diversify its economy, and develop public service sectors, such as tourism, a seven-square-kilometre cultural tourism project is taking shape 15 minutes north-west of Riyadh.

The project will see the historic city of Diriyah transformed into one of the world’s foremost historic cultural tourism destinations, featuring world-class entertainment, retail, hospitality, educational, office and residential assets with a diverse collection of museums and cultural institutes and a bustling retail heart.

Riyadh’s new premium dining precinct will open later this year within the existing Bujairi district, offering multiple dining brands catering to all types of tastes, from fine dining venues to relaxed family eateries. Each of these outlets will be set against uninterrupted views of At-Turaif, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is also regarded as the birthplace of the kingdom.

Upon completion, the development will add US$7 billion to the kingdom’s GDP, provide 55,000 job opportunities and attract 27 million visitors annually.

Jerry Inzerillo, CEO, Diriyah Gate

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Development Authority (DGDA), said: “As we pass the historic milestone of the fifth anniversary of the launch of the ambitious Vision 2030, DGDA is delighted to confirm that several key milestones have already been met.

“As we move from our planning and inception phases into the more detailed delivery phase of our ambitious master plans over the next three years, we are in a robust position, working with a combination of incredible local Saudi talent as well as leading international specialists and firms.

“Having successfully completed our overall strategic phase, in addition to having our hotel programme finalised across 29 of the world’s leading hospitality operators and more than 18 world-class F&B brands confirmed for Bujairi Dining Precinct, we are on time, on track and on budget with our ambitious goals. All of this places us in a unique position to contribute heavily towards the kingdom’s national tourism target of achieving 100 million tourists to Saudi Arabia by 2030, with our aim to attract over a quarter of these to Diriyah.”

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Maldives puts up a strong show at ATM

The Maldives is showcasing its diverse tourism offering at ATM this year.

Together with Visit Maldives, 69 partners representing 37 tourism establishments from various sectors of the island nation’s tourism industry are showcasing their products and unique experiences.

The Maldives is represented by an attractive stand, designed to

showcase the beauty of the country through colourful imagery, videography and state-of-the-art 360-degree touchless experiences for visitors.

The Middle East market has been an important source market for the Maldives. Since the reopening of the borders, the Middle East remains a key focus market. In order to maintain

brand visibility for the Maldives in the region, continuous marketing activities are conducted targeting travellers from the Middle East.

Despite challenges faced during the year, the Maldives welcomed a total of 555,494 international tourists in 2020, with the Middle East as one of the island country’s leading source markets.

As a result of mass vaccination drives, easing of travel restrictions and direct flight connectivity, the goal of reaching pre-pandemic arrival numbers from the Middle East shows consistent potential.

As of May 12, the Maldives has welcomed a total of 418,579 visitors this year and among that 7,729 arrivals were recorded from the Middle East market. When the Maldives reopened its borders for tourists of all nationalities in July 2020, the nation put rigorous procedures in place to ensure the safety of tourists and tourism staff.

The administration of vaccines was initiated in February with the government of the Maldives set to provide free COVID19 vaccines to all citizens and residents of the country in the upcoming months.

Visit Maldives, together with the Ministry of Tourism, also recently launched the “I’m Vaccinated” campaign to share a positive message regarding the vaccination of staff working in the tourism sector and also promote the initiatives undertaken to ensure the Maldives remains one of the safest destinations in the world for travellers. The ultimate target is to make the Maldives the first fully vaccinated tourism sector in the world.

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Egypt highlights safety measures to boost international travel Showcasing its tremendous tourism potential at ATM this year, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Dr. Khaled El-Enany, highlighted the country’s credentials as a safe travel destination for holidaymakers from the region and beyond.

The minister provided an overview of the country’s comprehensive action plan for safe tourism and infrastructure development as well as its diverse tourist attractions, from beach

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resorts to newly opened museums and archaeological projects.

Over the past few months, Egypt has witnessed a significant increase in inbound tourism. Since the resumption of international travel in July 2020, the nation has welcomed three million tourists from more than 20 countries, with 1.8 million visitors since January 2021.

At present, around 17,500 tourists arrive daily in the country, with 65 percent

of visitors arriving through airports located in the cities of Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada and Marsa Alam, which have consistently reported some of the world’s lowest COVID-19 infection rates.

Dr. El-Enany said: “Since the coronavirus outbreak, we have implemented stringent regulations to protect the health and safety of our visitors and staff. In recognition of our efforts, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has granted Egypt its Safe Travels stamp. The robust precautionary measures in place have contributed to a notable rise in tourist numbers, especially since the beginning of 2021.”

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has issued a series of regulations for the resumption of tourism in Egypt. Hygiene Safety Certificates are a prerequisite for hospitality establishments, airlines, airports, archaeological sites and museums to receive visitors.

All workers in the tourism sector have undergone compulsory COVID19 awareness training. The country has also launched a vaccination drive for all employees in the tourism sector, with most of the staff in South Sinai and Red Sea governorates – the two top tourist destinations – already vaccinated.

Furthermore, Egypt has introduced temporary incentives with the aim of reviving its tourism and aviation sectors and motivating holidaymakers to consider the country for their next vacation. Egypt is closely collaborating with industry partners, such as tour operators and airlines, in this regard.

In October 2021, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities plans to launch a three-year international promotional campaign that seeks to attract visitors from target markets to Egypt.

Furthermore, new hotels and resorts as well as new museums, such as the Grand Egyptian Museum overlooking the Giza Pyramid Complex, are set to open.

Dr. El-Enany added: “ATM provides the perfect platform to capture the attention of visitors from the Arab region – one of the most important tourist markets for Egypt that accounted for more than 20 percent of inbound tourism pre-COVID-19.

“In addition to the proximity factor, pleasant weather all year round and distinctive tourist attractions, Arab tourists feel at home in our country due to our shared language, culture and customs. And, of course, this feeling is mutually shared by Egyptians.”

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Flydubai showcases Saudia activates codeshare agreement updates to its with Gulf Air onboard experience

Flydubai is showcasing the latest developments to its onboard experience at this year’s ATM. The carrier’s passenger experience has been redesigned to enable travel in a safe environment that minimises contact between crew and passengers on board and offers them the confidence to travel safely at every step of their journey. Additionally, passengers who book a flight through flydubai.com will receive complimentary global cover for COVID-19 related costs to offer greater peace of mind when travelling.

Daniel Kerrison, Vice President, Inflight Product at Flydubai, said: “The onset of the pandemic in 2020 has reshaped the way people travel and the way airlines operate. We have taken all necessary precautionary measures to safeguard our passengers and that meant doing things differently.

“We temporarily discontinued our onboard duty-free sales, altered the meal service to individually packed meals, disabled our touch screens and limited movement in the cabin. A year on, we have gradually and safely reintroduced some of the onboard services and continue to add new features to enhance our onboard experience.”

Earlier this month, Flydubai introduced a complimentary inflight entertainment streaming service to its fleet of the Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft. The new innovative digital streaming solution is offered by

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AIRTIME, the carrier’s WiFi connectivity provider. Passengers can now enjoy complimentary inflight entertainment streamed wirelessly to their personal mobile devices, laptops and tablets. This will replace the seatback entertainment system in the economy cabin.

“We continue to invest in technology and enhancing our product offering.

Over the next few months, we will roll out more services including our new online eShop for passengers to pre-purchase a selection of hundreds of products VAT-free, to be delivered to their seat during the flight. We will also see the introduction of Bluetooth headphone pairing on our Boeing MAX aircraft allowing passengers to bring their own headphones and connect wirelessly to our award-winning seatback entertainment system,” added Kerrison.

Passengers travelling on a Boeing 737 MAX aircraft can enjoy more comfort and an enhanced travel experience. The new cabin offering features a flatbed in business class and in addition to the extra space and privacy, passengers can sleep comfortably during their flight. The economy class offers new Recaro seats, which are designed to optimise space and comfort so passengers can sit back, relax and enjoy their flight. The aircraft also features exceptional inflight entertainment with a high-definition 11.6-inch screen.

Saudia airlines announced that it has established a codeshare agreement with Gulf Air to enhance travel options for passengers of both airlines.

Under the agreement, the national Saudi and Bahraini carriers will provide passengers with a wider choice of domestic destinations in both countries and to other international destinations across each airline’s network.

Saudia and Gulf Air are among the first airlines to start operations in the GCC with more than 70 years of legacy. The codeshare will take effect during summer 2021 with both airlines incorporating the SV (Saudia) and GF (Gulf Air) flight codes for connections to Riyadh, Jeddah, Tbilisi, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Baku, Multan, Bahrain, Abha, Jazan, Yanbu, Jawf, Hail and Tunis. Frequent flyer members of

Saudia’s Al-Fursan and Gulf Air’s Falconflyer will be able to earn and redeem miles from flights operated as part of the codeshare route.

Captain Ibrahim Al-Koshy, CEO, Saudia, said: “Saudia and Gulf Air are key partners in connecting guests on each carriers’ diverse route networks.

Both airlines have a long history of partnership, in which this expanded codeshare agreement further enhances connectivity, convenience and flexibility for travellers.”

Gulf Air’s acting CEO, Captain Waleed Al-Alawi, said: “The relationship between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia has always been strong on many fronts and aviation is one of them.”

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Swiss-Belhotel highlights growing portfolio at ATM

Emirates inks agreement with Huawei at ATM

Strengthening its presence in the GCC, Swiss-Belhotel International will launch two stunning new hotels in the Middle East – Grand Swiss-Belhotel Waterfront Seef and Swiss-Belsuites Admiral Juffair.

The new hotels also see the launch of two new Swiss-Belhotel International brands in the region as the group aims to diversify its offering to provide greater choice to owners and customers.

Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President – Operations & Development, EMEA & India; Senior Vice President – Group Human Resources & Talent Development, Swiss-Belhotel International, said: “Our aim is to position Swiss-Belhotel International as the best alternative to blue-chip companies in the market offering superior returns, unbeatable value and unforgettable experiences.

Emirates signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Huawei at ATM yesterday to further extend its existing partnership. The enhanced collaboration will allow both brands to reach a wider audience in China, the Middle East and Africa.

The partnership will encompass the launch of customer-centric initiatives, including enhanced experiences for Huawei smartphone users while booking tickets on the Emirates app, available on the AppGallery.

The joint cooperation will also see Emirates providing support for the

“I am really proud to represent and practice Swiss-Belhotel International’s winning partnership philosophy that is defined by working hand in hand with owners and travel partners. I thank our partners for their continued support throughout the pandemic.”

“True to this year’s ATM theme, it is definitely a new dawn for our industry.

At Swiss-Belhotel International, we are proud to be part of this phenomenal platform that brings together representatives from different countries.

“Swiss professionalism combined with Asian passion is the core of our brand culture and at Swiss-Belhotel International, we are showcasing this at ATM through our portfolio of 145 hotels in 21 countries.”

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Tourism Malaysia celebrates first live event since COVID-19 outbreak ATM marks Tourism Malaysia’s first physical event since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the goal of showcasing the country’s tourism assets and further attracting visitors from the region once Malaysia opens its borders, Tourism Malaysia is pleased with its participation.

The country’s presence at the 28th edition of ATM also highlights its significant relationship with the UAE. HE Ambassador of Malaysia to the UAE, Mohammad Tarid Bin Sufian, said: “Malaysia has been one of the strongest supporters of ATM since its inception.

Malaysians share many common cultural and religious ties with the people in the region. Discovering Malaysia would bring people closer together.”

Mohamed Hasril Abdul Hamid, Consul General of Malaysia in Dubai, said: “Although travel restrictions have limited the number of our industry players present at ATM 2021, a majority of them are still maintaining their presence and interest in the Middle East by participating in ATM Virtual.”

Shahrin Mokhtar, Director of Tourism Malaysia – Dubai, said: “With uncertainty comes opportunity, therefore, we take the first step by participating in ATM 2021.

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Huawei search engine, Petal Search, on smart devices in the MEA region.

For Emirates, the integration into Huawei’s ecosystem will allow the airline to tap into a wider target audience, especially in the Chinese marketplace, which is regarded as one of the key markets for Emirates worldwide.

This move was built on the successful collaboration of the two brands, which was established in early 2020, when the Emirates app was made available on Huawei’s AppGallery.

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“This year, we launched the Malaysia Specialist Certified Programme (MSCP) to educate travel professionals in the Middle East on in-depth destination information to become certified Malaysia travel experts. Conducted by the tourism boards of Penang, Melaka, Selangor, Sabah, Sarawak and Langkawi, the programme comprises a series of six webinars designed specifically for travel agents.

“The MSCP is part of Tourism Malaysia – Dubai’s initiative after the COVID-19 outbreak to let tourists know that we are eager to see them again in our beautiful country.”

As a Muslim-majority country, Malaysia has always been an attractive destination for the halal tourism sector as the country offers a family-friendly environment that caters to the cultural and dietary requirements of Muslim travellers.

The UAE is a key feeder market for Malaysia as it serves as the flight hub for the Middle East, from where a majority of citizens enjoy visa-free travel to Malaysia. As the country pursues a practice of sustainable and responsible tourism, it endeavours to showcase Malaysian hospitality and the picturesque landscapes of the UNESCO Heritage-listed cities, highlands, 130-million-year-old rainforests, balmy islands and pristine beaches.

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MyConcierge showcases customer experience platform

Homegrown concierge services platform, MyConcierge, is showcasing its customer experience platform, TRYCEP, at ATM. Championing experience-driven e-commerce, it is 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 whitelabel website, secure members’ area, an e-commerce marketplace, CRM interface with member surveys, live chat, advanced reservation and booking engine, 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.

Recognising the need for a fullservice customer engagement platform, the brand decided to build its own.

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

Aside from the experience-driven e-commerce platform, MyConcierge is also seeking concierge partners globally that are interested in operating under the same brand and working to their universal service charter.

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Dubai Tourism highlights cultural offering at ATM At ATM this year, Dubai Tourism is showcasing the emirate’s proposition as a key cultural hub by highlighting its arts and heritage landscape. The Dubai Tourism stand is displaying 14 original works from 10 Emirati artists and photographers, provided by Dubai Culture, in order to showcase the city’s beauty from new and interesting perspectives.

This reflects Dubai’s ongoing mission to champion local and international creators and demonstrate the city’s commitment to growing its cultural tourism offering in line with the objectives of the Dubai Creative Economy strategy, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Tourism, said: “Art and culture is intrinsic to the social fabric of Dubai, a destination renowned for its diverse proposition, including unique culture and heritage attractions.

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“The display of exceptional works of art by talented Emiratis at the Dubai stand at ATM is to highlight the goal set by our visionary leadership to position Dubai as a global hub for arts, creativity and culture, as well as the important contribution being made by the arts and culture sector towards tourism growth.

“Through a range of exhibitions, events and galleries, the city has consistently reaffirmed its growing profile as a prime cultural hub that brings together some of the world’s most innovative talents, and is an outstanding place to discover art from the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia.

“A key focus for Dubai Tourism in 2021 and beyond will be to foster and promote cultural attractions that will be a major draw for visitors to Dubai, as well as attract entrepreneurs and innovators to the city and launch unique projects and initiatives that will aid the growth of the sector.”

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Seera Group and Klook partner to drive digital transformation of the Saudi tourism sector Seera Group, the region’s leading travel services company, announced its partnership with Klook, an international travel and leisure booking platform, at Arabian Travel Market. The collaboration aims to support the digital transformation and robust growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector.

Seera will be the exclusive partner of Klook in Saudi Arabia, and together, the two entities will create a one-stop digital platform with end-to-end content and inventory management solutions that will support tourism and leisure activity providers in Saudi Arabia.

The partnership will provide an extensive choice of offerings for travellers to, from and within the kingdom.

The move aims to not only support the local tourism landscape but also elevate Saudi Arabia’s footprint on the global tourism map.

The platform will also showcase tours and activities operated by Discover Saudi, Seera’s integrated destination management company.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of Saudi Tourism Authority, said: “For our partners across the Saudi tourism ecosystem, finding smart ways to connect with travellers enhances their ability to offer unique Arabian experiences to everyone eager to explore the destination. This platform will empower

our innovators, disruptors and new generation of tourism professionals to reach out to the world, tell their stories and build their businesses.”

Majed Alnefaie, Acting CEO of Seera Group, said: “With the partnership, we will bring the world-class technological expertise of Klook and Seera’s knowledge of Saudi Arabia’s tourism and travel sector together in one platform.

“The partnership will further digitally transform the Saudi tourism landscape and position it to enable domestic travellers and visitors from around the world as the travel and tourism sector rebounds.”

Ethan Lin, CEO & Co-Founder of Klook, said: “Klook is delighted to partner Seera Group and we are positive that this partnership will help set the stage towards Saudi Vision 2030.

“We’re excited to provide Saudi travellers with access to Klook’s global network of travel and leisure offerings, connecting them to the best experiences across the world.

“With over 100,000 offerings in more than 400 destinations, Saudi travellers can soon access a world of local and authentic experiences right at their fingertips.”

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Wizz Air Abu Dhabi announces new ultra-low fare routes New, ultra-low fare routes have been added to the Wizz Air Abu Dhabi network. The newly-launched routes will connect Kiev, Bari, Catania, Salalah and Muscat to the UAE capital.

The UAE’s sixth national carrier and first ultra-low-cost airline in the region, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi promises affordable fares and high-quality services for business and leisure travellers.

With an aim to become the leading low-cost carrier in the region, delivering superior service and low fares, the carrier hopes to contribute to the tourism industry in Abu Dhabi and beyond.

Kees Van Schaick, Managing Director of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi said: “We are excited to offer these new routes, giving travellers sustainable options to explore new places. Travellers will be dazzled by the beautiful architecture found in every corner of Kiev, a wealth of history and gorgeous beaches in Bari and the diverse landscapes found in Oman.

“Kiev, Bari, Catania, Salalah and Muscat are our next destinations in a series of new route announcements we have made and will continue to make. We are committed to providing Abu Dhabi residents and tourists with new travel options and destinations at affordable prices.”

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5/18/21 8:24 PM

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Abu Dhabi to host 15th FINA World Swimming Championships

For the first time this December, the UAE capital will host the 15th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m). In less than eight months, the best short-course swimmers from across the globe will descend on the country for the sporting event.

Made up of 44 different swimming events, the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) will be held at the state-of-the-art Etihad Arena – the UAE’s largest multi-purpose indoor entertainment venue, which opened in 2021 and is located on Yas Island.

ATECA Hotels unveils robust expansion plans at ATM

ATECA Hotels, a subsidiary of ATECA Holding, unveiled its expansion plans at ATM with a target of reaching five properties by Q4 2022 in Uzbekistan.

The group’s first upscale four-star hotel, ATECA Hotel Suites, is already under development in Tashkent and is set to open in July 2021.

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Michel Noblet, Executive Chairman of ATECA Holding, said: “Uzbekistan holds strong growth potential for the hospitality industry with unprecedented opportunities.

“At ATECA Hotels, we are thrilled to unlock this lucrative market and delighted to expand our footprint across the country with five unique and powerful brands catering to diverse needs of local and international travellers.”

ATECA Hotel’s rapid expansion is fueled by Uzbekistan’s strong demand for quality hotels. The tourism industry in the country, with its rich cultural and historical heritage, friendly people and natural beauty, holds high growth potential.

The government has recently initiated a number of reforms to facilitate tourism development. A key initiative is visa-free travel for citizens of 86 countries and e-visas for citizens of 77 countries. The goal is to grow tourism’s contribution from US$1 billion in 2018 to US$2.2 billion in 2025.

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Taking place from Thursday, December 16 to Tuesday, December 21, 2021, the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) will showcase the world’s best competitive swimmers, providing both local and international fans with the opportunity to watch

top-quality competitive swimming action in the heart of Abu Dhabi.

The event will feature men’s and women’s events in all four strokes, with the individual medley and relays.

The FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) is the latest addition to an ever-growing list of major sporting events to be hosted in Abu Dhabi recently. The past few months have seen sporting events such as UFC, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the UAE Tour and the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

His Excellency Aref Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said: “We are absolutely delighted to bring the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) to Abu Dhabi later this year. This is set to be a huge event for Yas Island, Abu Dhabi and the UAE, with over 1,000 of the most talented short-course swimmers from around the world, fresh from the Olympic Games in Tokyo, showcasing their abilities in what we expect to be an exciting competition.

“This World Championship event will further strengthen the emirate’s unique sporting offering, enhancing its reputation as a top global destination for sport, entertainment, leisure and business.”

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Ras Al Khaimah set to host Highlander hiking events

International hiking association Highlander recently added Ras Al Khaimah to its global list of hosts for hiking events. With this move, the UAE’s northernmost emirate is set to expand its adventure tourism offering, after announcing its new brand identity at ATM. In November 2021, Ras Al Khaimah will host the Gulf region’s first Highlander hiking experience, inviting local and international hikers to explore the emirate’s diverse landscape.

Highlander, the only certified international hiking association in the world, is renowned for its curated hiking experiences.

Currently, there are 20 adventures taking place annually in 15 countries.

With its addition to the list, Ras Al Khaimah will join iconic locations such as Austria, Bosnia, Croatia, Egypt, Greece, Russia and Portugal, all of which have played host to Highlander hikes.

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Saudi-based Almosafer Concierge debuts at ATM A new VIP concierge service, Almosafer Concierge, made its debut at ATM yesterday. Based in Saudi Arabia, the new service is aimed at visitors looking to gain more from their travel experiences. Travellers can benefit from curated and personalised arrangements for both short weekend breaks and long experiential holidays around the world.

The launch of this new product follows the brand’s recent sentiment survey, examining the travel behaviour of Saudi Arabian nationals one year into the pandemic.

Research showed that there is growing anticipation for international travel amongst Saudi nationals, with over 80 percent of respondents planning to travel internationally within the first six months of the country’s borders opening.

Serving as a customer’s personal travel concierge round the clock and remotely, Almosafer Concierge will be offered to a membersonly group of elite customers.

Members have to meet certain eligibility criteria to access the service, which brings them closer to luxurious stays, sought-after experiences and exclusive value-adds.

Available to assist are Almosafer’s luxury travel advisors, who will curate bespoke itineraries and look after every aspect of travellers’ trips, from hotel bookings and flights to unique in-destination experiences. Customers will benefit from exclusive offers not only in well-travelled destinations but also in new, exciting places that many may have never had access to from Saudi Arabia.

Almosafer Concierge is part of Traveller Made’s network of agencies dedicated to providing unique and exclusive bespoke journeys to travellers looking for different and original experiences.

Almosafer’s concierge brand has established partnerships with luxurious renowned programmes, such as Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Stars by Marriott Luxury Brands and Impresario by Hilton Luxury.

Almosafer is also introducing concierge planning services, targeting customers looking to elevate their trips by purchasing the service on a one-time basis at any of Almosafer’s retail branches.

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Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk highlights sustainability efforts at ATM Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, the largest Sofitel property in the region and second largest in the world, is proud to showcase its environmental efforts at ATM 2021.

Since opening its doors in October 2020, the hotel has paved the way for sustainable steps in the hospitality realm by minimising the impact on the environment through efficient energy, water and waste management programmes.

The property is committed to establishing an eco-friendly environment and infrastructure that improves air quality, preserves water resources and increases clean energy and green growth.

A no single-use plastic policy is among the core values of the brand, practised across its French-Egyptianinspired 595 rooms, suites and serviced residences. In addition, plastic bottles, plastic key cards, straws, cutlery and takeaway containers have been substituted for more sustainable options.

There is also a special water filtration system in place managed by a dedicated team that cleans, sanitises, replenishes and seals glass water bottles in a specialised room that no one outside of the team can enter for hygiene and safety purposes. The filtered water bottles are available in all guest rooms, suites, meetings rooms and dining outlets.

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The hotel also boasts two green meeting rooms that offer electronic flip charts and amenities made from eco-friendly materials.

Incorporating sustainability into its dining portfolio, the hotel’s executive chef Russell Impiazzi actively creates a genuinely ethical culture within the team. From committing to using local produce to reducing food waste and working with local food banks, sustainability lies in every facet of operations at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk.

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Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk

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ATM 2021 Highlights

Standing out at ATM

As Arabian Travel Market 2021 draws to a close, we provide a snapshot of highlights from this year’s event

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ATM 2021 Highlights

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Special Feature - Expo 2020 Dubai

1 Expo 2020 Dubai 2 The future of mobility 3 Technical innovations on showcase

Welcoming the world at Expo

With so much to experience, Expo 2020 Dubai offers something for everyone, whether you’re visiting with family or friends, or as a business traveller or student 1

200+

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pavilions

VISITOR-BASED ITINERARIES

CURATED EDUCATIONAL TOURS

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daily live events

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dining outlets Ever since the historic debut of World Expos with The Great Exhibition of 1851 in London, they have been a platform for innovation. In the British capital, it was the fax machine that was first revealed to the world; 25 years later, the telephone was on display in Philadelphia.

In the years to follow, from the X-ray machine to the television, every World Expo has left a lasting legacy with its unique showcase of cutting-edge technology.

Honouring this great tradition, Expo 2020 Dubai will bring together the most brilliant minds in the world as nations, businesses and entrepreneurs gather to celebrate human excellence and find real-life solutions to real-world challenges. This is why ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’ was chosen as the theme of the six-month-long exhibition, under which game-changing innovations will be showcased.

As the event sets out to change the world as we know it, it will also offer the chance to discover the world in one place.

Across more than 190 Country Pavilions, visitors will be able to explore thrilling narratives from every corner of the globe.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE With so much to experience, Expo 2020 Dubai offers something for everyone, whether you’re visiting with family or friends, or as a business traveller or student. And no matter your passion – food, culture, technology, wellness, art or science – there is much to discover.

To help visitors make the most of the extensive once-in-a-lifetime experiences on showcase at Expo 2020 Dubai, half-, one- and three-day itineraries are available, which can be further tailored to an individual’s requirements.

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Expo essentials: Visit the world in one place with a journey that takes you to your favourite countries and some you’ve never considered.

Expo for families: Treat the family to interactive activities and educational experiences from around the world.

Expo for couples: Enjoy romantic or thrilling global adventures with your partner, all in one place.

INTEREST-BASED ITINERARIES •

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Expo architecture and design journey: View architectural marvels and pavilions designed by some of the world’s greatest architects.

Expo for foodies: Dine around the world at the Country Pavilions while sampling local and regional cuisine.

Expo health and wellness journey: Discover the latest developments in healthcare with new technologies and practices that support the evolution of human wellness.

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Expo mobility journey: Explore how data, people and goods will move across industries and countries with the latest innovations.

Expo energy journey: Learn about the enhancements in sustainable energy and efficient technologies.

Expo for techies and innovators: Experience the latest cuttingedge innovations with more than 200 international participants showcasing their advancements.

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Innovation and technology journey: Experience the most exciting technologies and groundbreaking innovations that the world has to offer in a single destination.

Sustainability journey: Explore sustainable practices developed by forward-thinking leaders and environmentalists.

Engineering and construction journey: Learn how engineering and construction are being revolutionised using sustainable practices, digital technologies and new business models.

Hospitality, tourism and megaevents journey: Gain behindthe-scenes insight into how hospitality processes and other operations will work seamlessly at the next World Expo.

International relations journey: Witness how international relations unfold in real time with more than 190 nations in one place at Expo 2020 Dubai.

Arts, architecture and design journey: Experience the greatest artists, architects and designers of all time on this once-in-a-lifetime tour of contemporary masterpieces.

Business and entrepreneurship journey: Explore how changemakers from around the world strategise to create a lasting impact in their communities, companies and countries.

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5/18/21 4:01 PM

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort - Exhibitor Profile

A splendid showcase

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Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort highlights the diverse offering available to guests at its award-winning property on Palm Jumeirah 1 1 & 3 Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort 2 James Hewitson

We are committed to maintaining our position as a top resort on Palm Jumeirah

The Anantara brand was born in 2001 with a luxury property in the Thai seaside town of Hua Hin. Thanks to its splendid offering, it rose through the ranks to become one of the country’s premium hospitality destinations.

In the years to follow, the group expanded around the world, to beaches, islands, countryside retreats, deserts, heritage sites and cities. Its portfolio today spans Asia, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East, Africa and Europe.

James Hewitson, General Manager at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, said: “Our thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provide windows into the genuine modern character of each destination. Inside and outside each property, travellers engage with the places, people and stories that make the destination like nowhere else in the world. Guests curate a lifetime of memories through personal experiences as Anantara opens doors and enables journeys of adventure and indulgence.”

Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas’ first Dubai property, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, opened in 2013, offering guests a luxurious hospitality experience on Palm Jumeirah.

In the years that have passed since, the resort has become a favourite among city staycationers and international travellers. Flanked by a 400-metre private shoreline, the resort promises an exclusive beach escape with the UAE’s only over water villas and the award-winning Anantara Spa.

NAVIGATING THE PANDEMIC With border closures and lockdowns arising from COVID-19, the hotel industry was one of the worst-hit sectors. But Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort used the opportunity to evolve and adapt to meet guests’ ever-changing needs by introducing a host of safety measures, from partitioned check-in desks to QR codes at restaurants.

“We are adhering to the local government regulations and enhanced health and safety protocols for all spaces, including the deep cleaning of guest rooms, lobbies, restaurants and back-of-house areas. This includes sanitising every surface with approved, high-grade disinfectants. Transparency around cleaning and hygiene protocols is essential to give travellers peace of mind to stay at hotels again.”

“This means mobile-friendly websites, easy navigation and a quick and simple booking process. Even while seeking travel inspiration, people are using mobile technology to browse Facebook, Instagram and other sites, and so our brand is present on different platforms.

“By August, we will also launch the Anantara mobile app so that our guests can be informed of our latest updates.”

With support from the brand’s holding company, Seven Tides, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort will upgrade 70 of its rooms to enhance the guest experience. “We are committed to maintaining our position as a leading resort on Palm Jumeirah and are investing in our rooms to ensure that our product will compete with the influx of new inventory joining us on The Palm later this year.”

FUTURE FOCUS While developing its hospitality offering, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort will also focus on its sustainability initiatives.

By July, the resort aims to remove all plastic bottles in the resort and replace them with recycled glass bottles.

With more than 400 guest rooms and villas and seven dining outlets, this new system will save approximately 1,048,320 single-use plastic bottles consumed in the resort every year.

For other areas of the property, such as the beach and pool, the resort has introduced eco-friendly glass bottles.

“We are committed towards the steady growth and profitability of our business while actively working to reduce the environmental impact of our operations. We continuously focus on critical areas, including carbon emissions, energy consumption, food wastage, sustainable supply chain, general waste management and optimal use of air and water resources.

“We integrate leading environmental practices and sustainability principles within our operations. And we also strongly believe that our sustainability efforts serve the interests of both current and future generations and constitute the foundation for stable and longlasting success.”

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NEW DEVELOPMENTS “The travel industry is dominated by customer service and hotels swear by guest satisfaction. As customer demands grow, so does the complexity of delivering experiences they’ll be happy with. That is why, we are constantly working on developing our services.”

A new breed of tech-savvy travellers has emerged in recent years and they expect the industry to keep up with changing technology. Almost every guest is now well-versed in the use of social media and mobile devices, which the hotel believes are two components that are vital to work on.

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Feature - ATM Virtual 2021

1 - 5 Digital connections 6 Danielle Curtis

Virtual perspectives

ATM Virtual 2021 will run next week from May 24 to 26 with an extensive programme of virtual events for travel professionals from all around the world

When ATM Virtual made its debut in June 2020, the travel and tourism industry was still coming to grips with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet the event proved to be a resounding success, attracting 12,000 online attendees from 140 countries, as it paved the way forward for the sector’s recovery.

To complement the four-day in-person show that closes today and reach a wider audience than ever before, ATM’s first new hybrid format will see ATM Virtual returning this year. Taking place next week from May 24 to 26, 2021, attendees from all around the world can expect three days of insights into the latest developments in travel and tourism.

“It was imperative to include a virtual element this year because many industry professionals from around the world were not able to attend the in-person event, with travel restrictions changing rapidly around the globe,” said Danielle Curtis, Exhibitor Director ME, Arabian Travel Market.

“The success of ATM Virtual 2020 went beyond our expectations and we were delighted with the overall feedback and the results. It provided us with the platform to launch a new hybrid format for the first time this year, which means a virtual ATM running a week later after the in-person event closes today.”

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ATM Virtual 2021 - Feature

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ON THE AGENDA ATM Virtual provides a platform for travel professionals around the world to continue important one-to-one meetings through matchmaking on the platform and attend live webinars and debates from the comfort of their own home or office.

“Building on the success of last year’s debut event, ATM Virtual 2021 will feature live and on-demand sessions, virtual roundtables, one-toone meetings, speed networking events and destination briefings while facilitating new connections and offering a wide range of online business opportunities,” added Curtis.

Attendees can expect a packed conference programme as the threeday event will feature interviews with leading airline chiefs, including Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates, and responsible tourism sessions conducted

by World Travel Market’s Responsible Tourism Advisor Harold Goodwin.

The virtual event will also see the ATM Saudi Arabia Tourism Summit, a session on cultural tourism in the region and the ATM Hotel Industry Summit.

READY FOR RECOVERY Like most aspects of travel, the in-destination industry is constantly evolving, with rapid technological innovations and traveller behaviour leading the change. This makes it crucial to highlight the trends defining the market, which will be addressed at ARIVAL Dubai, another highlight on the agenda for ATM Virtual.

It will feature sessions covering current and future trends for operators of tours and attractions and assemble leading voices from across the region to help the industry chart a path of resilience and resurgence in 2021 and beyond.

The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), the world’s

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To complement the in-person show that closes today, ATM’s new hybrid format will see ATM Virtual taking place next week premier business travel and meetings trade organisation, will also be participating in ATM Virtual and will deliver the latest business travel content, research and education to drive post-pandemic recovery and support growth in business travel.

ATM Virtual presents a second opportunity to reconnect, but this time, online. Through the platform, attendees will also get access to on-demand content and view sessions that they may have missed during the in-person event.

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Seminar Schedule - ATM Global Stage

ATM Global Stage WEDNESDAY 19TH MAY ITIC-ATM MIDDLE EAST TOURISM INVESTMENT SUMMIT: INVEST – REBUILD – RESTART 10:30 – 10:40 WELCOME SPEECHES Speakers: Dr. Taleb Rifai, Chairman of ITIC & Former Secretary-General UNWTO, Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director, ATM, Reed Exhibitions 10.40 - 11.15 MORNING CONVERSATIONS Discussing the evolving economic landscape of the Middle East and the emerging challenges and opportunities in the travel and tourism sector.

Speakers: Dr. Taleb Rifai, Chairman of ITIC & Former Secretary-General UNWTO, Scott Livermore, Chief Economist of Oxford Economics, Middle East, Nicolas Mayer,

Global Tourism Leader, PWC 11.20 - 11.40 ONE-TO-ONE INTERVIEWS 11.45 - 12.30 TO WHAT EXTENT WILL SUSTAINABILITY REORIENT THE MIDDLE EAST TOURISM INDUSTRY? Moderator: Gerald Lawless, ITIC Director and WTTC Ambassador Speakers: H.E Marwan Bin Jassim Al Sarkal, Executive Chairman, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Raki Phillips, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), Hon. Nayef Al-Fayez, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Jordan 14.15 - 14.30 TRAVEL INDUSTRY OUTLOOK Manus Cranny, Anchor at Bloomberg,

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in conversation with Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports, discussing when the travel industry is expected to recover and bounce back to pre-COVID-19 levels?

14.35 - 15.20 PROSPECTS FOR INVESTMENT IN THE MIDDLE EAST HOTEL INDUSTRY Moderator: Nicolas Mayer, Global Tourism Leader, PWC Speakers: Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts India, Middle East & Africa, Salvatore Lavallo, Head of FDI Attraction, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Yariv Fisher, entrepreneur and expert in the GCC and Southeast Asia, Co-Founder and Chairman of Flyeast and Global Remit companies, Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President – Operations and Development, Swiss-Belhotel International – Europe

Middle East, Africa and India 15.25 - 16.30 INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES Dr. Taleb Rifai, Chairman of ITIC and former Secretary-General of UNWTO, in conversation with Nikolina Angelkova, Member of Parliament and former Minister of Tourism, about investment opportunities in Bulgaria.

Introduction by: Paul Hoskins, Director, ITIC and Invest Tourism Ltd 16.30 - 16.45 CLOSING DISCUSSION Speakers: Dr. Taleb Rifai, Chairman of ITIC & Former Secretary-General, United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Gerald Lawless, ITIC Director & WTTC Ambassador

5/18/21 7:51 PM

THE WORLD’S

GREATEST SHOW

JOIN THE MAKING OF A NEW WORLD 1 OCTOBER 2021 - 31 MARCH 2022 expo2020dubai.com

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Seminar Schedule - Travel Forward Theatre

Travel Forward Theatre

Sponsored by

WEDNESDAY 19TH MAY 10.30 - 11.30 ITP: GETTING PERSONAL - HOW TECH, DATA AND EXPERIENCES ARE KEY TO SUCCESS Data is increasingly important for travel and hotel firms – from being able to provide customised deals and offers to travellers to curating unique experiences based on personal preferences once the guest has arrived.

Research by Google and Phocusright revealed that around 60 percent of travellers wanted brands to tailor the information they receive based on past preferences, while 76 percent said

they’d prefer loyalty programs that used previous behaviour as a driver of offers available. What’s more, 36 percent said they’d pay more if they received more personalised experiences.

Taking that a step further, Accor’s CEO Sebastian Bazin said that all hotels around the world will need to be different in order to customise experiences for guests, with properties needing to assimilate aspects of the city they’re based in to create more authentic memories for people.

In this panel, we will look at the ways hotels build guest profiles and

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how they use that data when it comes to reaching out to travellers and providing them with memorable stays.

Moderator: Paul Clifford, Group Editor, Hospitality Group, ITP Media Group Speakers: Siegfried Nierhaus, Vice President, Deutsche Hospitality Middle East, Jochem-Jan Sleiffer, President – Middle East, Africa & Turkey, Hilton, Karl Escritt, Chief Experience Officer, Like Digital, Amir Golbarg, Vice President Operations – Middle East, North Africa, Seychelles, Mauritius, Minor Hotels

12.30 - 13.15 RATEGAIN: UNRAVELING THE POWER OF SOCIAL-MEDIA TO GENERATE “ENGAGEMENT-DRIVEN-ROI” FOR HOTELS AND DESTINATION TOURISM Join BCV for an in-depth discussion about the changes in consumer behavior, emerging travel trends and the power of social media as a catalyst for conversation, loyalty and return on investment in 2021.

Speaker: Yuliya Navorynska, Country Head, UAE- BCV – A RateGain Company

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Seminar Schedule - ATM Virtual 2021

ATM Virtual 2021 MONDAY 24TH MAY GST 10.30 - 11.30 | GMT 07.30 - 08.30 ENABLING A NEW GENERATION OF MIDDLE EAST TOURISM PROFESSIONALS Tourism is a burgeoning sector in the Middle East and an area rich in opportunity for young men and women seeking to build careers in growth industries.

This session takes a look at: How do we engage young entrepreneurs and professionals to bring them into the tourism sector? What needs to be done to train and develop this new generation of talent to set them up for success?

It also looks at how can governments work with the private sector to support new entrepreneurs and existing tourism companies in a way that directly meets their needs (for example, micro-financing)?

Moderator: Zeinab Badawi, Presenter, BBC World News Speakers: HE Princess Haifa Al-Saud, Vice President at the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage, HE Maitha Saif Majid Al Mahrouqi, Undersecretary, Ministry of Tourism, Oman GST 12.00 - 13.00 | GMT 09.00 - 10.00 AIRLINE INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP KEYNOTE INTERVIEW: TACKLING THE AIRLINE INDUSTRY’S CHALLENGES: DIRECTOR GENERAL IATA WILLIE WALSH Willie Walsh takes up his position as Director General of IATA as the crisis facing the airline industry enters its second year.

Walsh is no stranger to tackling and succeeding in resolving challenging issues and complex problems. having successfully led Aer Lingus,

British Airways and IAG in a career spanning more than 40 years.

Now he has to provide leadership for the industry at a time when its size and structure are under threat as never before.

Airlines face a fragmented and disjointed approach to the crisis by governments across the globe. Quarantines, border closers, testing regimes are amongst the issues on which IATA needs to drive engagement and consistency of approach in order to permit airlines to begin the process of recovery.

In this ATM Virtual exclusive interview, airline expert John Strickland will explore the priority issues on Willie Walsh’s agenda and seek his views on the way forward for the industry.

Moderator: John Strickland, JLS Consulting Speaker: Willie Walsh, Director General, IATA GST 13.30 - 14.30 | GMT 10.30 - 11.30 THE ATM SAUDI ARABIA TOURISM SUMMIT - SAUDI’S HOTEL ROADMAP AS A TESTBED FOR INNOVATION Saudi Arabia’s hotel landscape continues to evolve at pace, underpinned by the long-term vision of the government plus public and private investment in infrastructure, new destinations and mixed-use projects.

With the long-term tourism outlook more bullish than ever, hotel industry heavyweights discuss the vast potential for new and innovative hospitality concepts that keep pace with this demand and fast-changing guest demographics, now and in the future.

Moderator: Gemma Greenwood, Director, Content Inc. Speakers: Mark Willis, CEO, TIMEA

(Turkey, India, Middle East and Africa), Accor, Oliver Harnisch, Head of Hospitality, Public Investment Fund (PIF), Saudi Arabia, Hassan Ahdab, President of Hotels Operations, Dur Hospitality, Christopher Lund, Director, Head of Hotels, MENA Region, Colliers International GST 15.00 - 15.20 | GMT 12.00 - 12.20 THE BEST PART OF TRAVEL: ARABIA’S ARIVAL Our industry – tours, activities, attractions, events, experiences—is not just the third-largest part of travel, it’s why people travel in the first place.

Douglas Quinby shares exclusive Arival research on the outlook for tours, activities and attractions as well as key trends shaping the sector’s revival.

Speaker: Douglas Quinby, Co-Founder & CEO, Arival GST 15.40 - 16.05 | GMT 12.40 - 13.05 ASK ME ANYTHING: ZEINA DAGHER, CEO, EMAAR ENTERTAINMENT This one-time intern rose to become the CEO of the leisure attractions division of one of the UAE’s leading property development firms.

Responsible for the strategy of some of the emirates’ top attractions, including the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, KidZania and Burj Khalifa, Dagher will share how attractions have adapted to the downturn and where attraction development, distribution and guest experience is headed in 2021 and beyond.

Moderator: Douglas Quinby, Co-Founder & CEO, Arival Speaker: Zeina Dagher, CEO, Emaar Entertainment

GST 16.25 - 16.55 | GMT 13.25 - 13.55 OTAS, TECH & THE OUTLOOK FOR TOURS & ATTRACTIONS Digital distribution and online platforms are ushering in dramatic change, from how travellers plan and book to how operators and distributors connect.

The pandemic has only accelerated the need for operators to get ahead on tech.

This session, taking place during ATM Virtual, will explore the changes afoot amid the rise of online travel agencies (OTAs) and what this means for tour and attraction operators across the region.

Moderator: Douglas Quinby, Co-Founder & CEO, Arival Speakers: Julia Randow, Regional Director, GetYourGuide, Ian Renton, Director of Sales, Atlantis, Essam Salah, Co-Founder & CEO, Oceanair Travels GST 17.15 - 17.35 | GMT 14.15 - 14.35 THE TRULY CONNECTED TRIP This candid interview with the Head of Technology at Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi) looks at how the capital of the United Arab Emirates is looking to reimagine the guest experience by creating a truly connected and personalised experience, from travel planning to arrival and exploring the destination.

During the session, Jamieson will discuss the road ahead for DCT Abu Dhabi and the industry as they seek to connect tour and attraction suppliers to enhance the guest experience and create new opportunities for tour and attraction providers in the UAE capital amid the pandemic.

Speaker: Peter Jamieson, CTO, Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi

TUESDAY 25TH MAY GST 10.30 - 11.30 | GMT 07.30 - 08.30 THE ATM HOTEL INDUSTRY SUMMIT: HOSPITALITY TRENDS ACCELERATED – WELLNESS AND SUSTAINABILITY TAKE CENTRE STAGE Hoteliers explain how they’ve adapted to the super-acceleration of global wellness and sustainability movements, evolving their hotels and services to respond to overwhelming traveller demand for health and wellbeing solutions and sustainable practices that support the environment and local communities.

Moderator: Gemma Greenwood, Director, Content Inc Speakers: Emlyn Brown, Global Vice President, Accor WellBeing Luxury & Premium Brands, Paul Gardiner, CEO of Mantis Collection, Jeremy McCarthy, Group Director of Spa & Wellness at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Jonathan Raggett, Managing Director at Red Carnation Hotels & Founding

Member of Beyond Green Sponsored by:

GST 12.00 - 12.40 | GMT 09.00 - 09.40 AIRLINE LEADERSHIP KEYNOTE INTERVIEW: SEIZING NEW OPPORTUNITIES – A DISCUSSION WITH ADEL ALI, CEO OF AIR ARABIA GROUP A seasoned airline industry executive, Adel Ali has nurtured Air Arabia to become a highly profitable low-cost airline group with activity spanning the Gulf and North Africa.

The group, like all airlines, has been severely tested by the current COVID-19 pandemic but still managed to deliver

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two profitable quarters in the last year.

Despite the ongoing crisis, the airline has added aircraft to its fleet and opened up a new subsidiary in Abu Dhabi.

To find out how Adel Ali is managing the crisis whilst still keeping an eye on opportunities, John Strickland, a former compatriot from an earlier career at British Airways, will be putting the questions to him.

Moderator: John Strickland, JLS Consulting Speaker: Adel Ali, CEO Air Arabia Group.

GST 12.50 - 13.20 | GMT 09.50 - 10.20 AIRLINE LEADERSHIP KEYNOTE INTERVIEW: FLY DUBAI MOVING AHEAD – CEO GHAITH AL GHAITH IN CONVERSATION WITH JOHN STRICKLAND Ghaith Al Ghaith has led Flydubai since it was founded and has seen the airline grow to be a powerful force on the

aviation landscape, adding many new destinations from its Dubai base.

He has guided the airline through periods of difficulty, including the global grounding (recently lifted) of the Boeing 737 Max aircraft and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

We will explore what he has learned from these challenges and how he envisions Flydubai’s development and evolution in the years ahead. Topics for discussion will include an exploration of likely network growth, product developments and the deepening and evolving partnership with Emirates.

Moderator: John Strickland, JLS Consulting Speaker: Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, Flydubai GST 13.30 - 14.30 | GMT 10.30 - 11.30 COVID SAFE RECOVERY: INSIGHTS & TOOLS FOR 2021 AND BEYOND The visitor experience in-destination is

5/18/21 3:55 PM

ATM Virtual 2021 - Seminar Schedule

vaccines helping to win the fight against COVID-19, what will be the impact as we return to a sense of normality?

Among the topics of discussion will be whether an increase in staycations has made up for the smaller amount of international travellers, are customers spending more money on experiential dining locally because they can’t go abroad, and will a summer exodus from Dubai lead to difficult times for hotels or will inbound travel return enough to make up for it?

Moderator: Simon Ritchie, Editor of Caterer Middle East and Hotelier Middle East Speakers: Emma Banks, VP of F&B Strategy for EMEA, Hilton, Lynne Bellinger, Director of F&B Design & Development EAME - Marriott International, Samantha Wood, Founder of Foodiva, Suhaila Ghubash, Director of Festivals and Events, DFRE

central to the COVID-safe recovery of the travel industry. Current indications are that there is much pent-up demand for a return to a full suite of travel services but perceptions of COVID-19 safety on the trip is high on the list of visitor concerns that need to be addressed.

This session looks at the latest data on consumer sentiment. It will also cover the practical solutions forwardthinking travel businesses are providing in-destination to address them.

This session is run by ETOA, the European Tourism Association.

Moderator: Rachel Read, Director of Insight, ETOA

Speakers: David Edwards, Tourism Insight Specialist, ETOA and Scattered Clouds, Santiago García-Dils de la Vega, International Promotion & MICE, Turismo de Sevilla, Elodie Berta, Head of Business Development, Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau GST 15.00 - 16.00 | GMT 12.00 - 13.00 HOW THE LACK OF INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL HAS AFFECTED THE REGIONAL F&B SCENE Top hoteliers talk about how the lack of international travel has impacted their F&B over the past year. And with

GST 16.30 - 17.30 | GMT 13.30 - 14.30 RESPONSIBLE HOSPITALITY IN A PERFECT STORM COVID-19, climate change, biodiversity loss and increasing inequality, the new normal will be a challenging trading environment for business and leisure travel. We have brought together leading thinkers and practitioners to share their ideas about how hotels can manage risk and trade profitably over the next decade.

Properties being built now will be operating in a very different environment in the 2030s. The decisions we make now will determine the assets we have to work with in the future. There are many tied and tested solutions, and there are some new ideas yet to be fully proven. Now is the time to take

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responsibility and weather the storm.

Moderator: Harold Goodwin, WTM Responsible Tourism Advisor Speakers: Eric Ricaurte, Founder & CEO, Greenview, Inge Huijbrechts, Global Senior Vice President – Sustainability, Security and Corporate Communications at Radisson Hotel Group, Madhu Rajesh, CEO at Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, Dimitris Manikis, President for Europe, Middle East, Eurasia and Africa (EMEA), Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Rana Al Oran, Director of People and Culture, Four Seasons Hotel Doha GST 18.00 -19.00 | GMT 15.00 - 16.00 THE TECHNOLOGY THAT WILL DRIVE A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR TRAVEL Before the COVID-19 pandemic, sustainability and concerns about the impact travel has on the environment were set to become one of the defining issues for the sector for future generations.

While the pandemic has inevitably diverted attention, it is also likely to accelerate how sustainability will become a growing focus as consumers, governments, regulators and pressure groups alike shine a light on industry practices.

In this session, experts will talk about how technology and sustainability will converge to ensure a vibrant and responsible future for travel.

Moderator: Lee Hayhurst, Executive Editor, Travolution Speakers: Hugo Kimber, Founder Director, Carbon Responsible, Nico Nicholas, CEO & Co-Founder, Trees4Travel, Bayram Annakov, Founder & CEO of App In The Air

WEDNESDAY 26TH MAY GST 10.00 - 11.00 | GMT 07.00 - 08.00 CULTURAL TOURISM FOR GROWTH Find out how countries across the region are developing cultural attractions, from museums to ancient heritage sites, to differentiate their destination offering and provide visitors with enriching educational experiences. Panellists discuss how positioning the region as a global centre for cultural tourism will pave the way for sustainable industry growth and leave a legacy for future generations.

Moderator: Gemma Greenwood, Director, Content Inc Speakers: Ali Al Shaiba, Executive Director – Tourism and Marketing, DCT Abu Dhabi, Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, COO, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (SHUROOQ), Sharjah, UAE, Jerry Inzerillo, CEO, Diriyah Gate Development Authority, Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) GST 11.30 - 12.30 | GMT 08.30 - 09.30 RESPONSIBLE TECHNOLOGY FOR TRAVEL & TOURISM The tourism industry – travel, hospitality and attractions – has developed a bewildering range of tech solutions.

For this panel, we have chosen

speakers who can look behind the brochures and the sales pitches to share what they have learnt about what works, what doesn’t and why?

Moderator: Harold Goodwin, WTM Advisor Speakers: Andrea Nicholas, CEO, Green Tourism, Chris Warren, Founder & CEO, My Green Butler, Dina Storey, Head of Sustainability, Expo 2020 Dubai, Claire Whitely, Senior Sustainability Manager, Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, Keith Bradley, Managing Partner, Globally Great GBTA CONFERENCE @ ATM 2021 - READY.SAFE.TRAVEL GST 14.00 - 14.45 | GMT 11.00 - 11.45 WE ARE READY! This “big picture” segment will feature how ready the region is for its return to travel, looking at GBTA’s BTI Business Travel Outlook for the Middle East, industry forecasts and diving into how governments have responded to the pandemic and their readiness for the return to travel in terms of border controls and travel restrictions.

Moderator: Chris Pouney, Managing Partner, Severnside Consulting Ltd Speakers: Iyad Rasbey, Executive

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Director, Destination Tourism Development, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, Catherine Logan, Regional Vice President - EMEA, GBTA, Derek Sadubin, Managing Director, CAPA - Centre for Aviation GST 15.00 - 15.45 | GMT 12.00 - 12.45 WE ARE SAFE! Travel risk management is a core function of any travel programme and this segment will look at how best to keep travellers safe as we come out of the pandemic, what solutions are available to help with this and what special considerations need to be observed in this region.

Moderator: Debra Reid, Strategic Corporate Travel Manager, Houston, Texas Speakers: Hans Kanold, Global Ambassador, Stay Safe Hospitality, Savio Vas, Vice President Government and Corporate Travel, Dnata Travel Management, Emirates GST 16.00 - 16.45 | GMT 13.00 - 13.45 WE CAN TRAVEL! An international panel of global and regional buyers will share how they have incorporated this region into

their global programme – focusing on challenges and opportunities and sharing of best practices to accommodate cultural nuances, practical realities and the pandemic.

Moderator: Chris Pouney, Managing Partner, Severnside Consulting Ltd Speakers: Mohammed Halawi, Global Travel Director (Global Services), Firmenich, Anthony Baldwin, EMEIA Emerging Markets Travel, Meetings & Events Leader, EY, Nevine Khedr, Front Office Lead, Travel & Expense Management (T&E), ABB GST 17.00 - 17.45 | GMT 14.00 - 14.45 WE CAN MEET! Like transient travel, MICE has been hard hit by the pandemic, but how and when will it come back?

This session will dive into the outlook for the meetings industry as well as how and when these will take place and whether hybrid is here to stay.

Moderator: Glenn Johnston, Aviareps Speakers: Emre Kirazci, Director of Sales & Marketing, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, Graham Pope, Vice President of Sales, Cvent, Ayman Talaat, CEO, Extramile Group ME, Ali Fouladi, Tourism Advisor, Bahrain Tourism Board

5/18/21 10:30 PM

24

Feature - Cultural Tourism

Cultural connection With travellers seeking more authentic experiences, the region prepares for this wave of growth with a renewed focus on its cultural proposition Very little has remained unchanged by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Even the way we travel has been reshaped by the global crisis. While the pent-up demand for travel is seeing new trends emerge, the relevant, existing few are now being embraced wholeheartedly.

The idea of visiting a destination to learn about its heritage has long proved popular. Whether it’s travelling to Peru to explore the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, visiting Vatican City to wonder at the Sistine Chapel or descending on Mutianyu to marvel at The Great Wall of China, authentic experiences allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the culture of the destination they are visiting.

According to the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), visitors engaging in cultural activities accounted for more than 500 million of international tourist numbers in 2017. The Global Heritage Fund also revealed that the appeal of heritage tourism is on the rise, with 40 percent of travellers participating in a cultural activity as part of their stay.

Despite the momentary interruption resulting from the pandemic, this growth has not gone unnoticed by the industry and governments across the world are willingly investing in cultural venues.

Even in the Middle East, countries are investing in intensive conservation and restoration work as well as the construction of new cultural venues.

This is making it easier for visitors to the region to experience the places, artefacts and activities that provide an authentic representation of its people and its past.

CAPITAL CALLING The UAE has always placed emphasis on tradition and culture, and each of the seven emirates has its own story to tell. Abu Dhabi, in particular, has fully embraced the idea of cultural tourism.

Ali Hassan Al Shaiba, Executive Director of Tourism and Marketing – Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi, said: “Cultural tourism is a major contributor to the industry and will only continue to grow. DCT Abu Dhabi is committed to fostering a thriving, internationally-minded cultural centre that engages both residents and tourists by highlighting the emirate’s rich cultural diversity and heritage.”

With this mission in mind, the department has significantly improved

1

its cultural offering over the last decade. “Abu Dhabi offers visitors and residents tangible cultural experiences through its many unique assets, such as Qasr Al Hosn, Al Ain Oasis, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat and Al Qattara Arts Centre.

“Our recently launched project, Jebel Hafeet Desert Park, is a gem for outdoor explorers and history enthusiasts alike as it features archaeological discoveries that reveal human settlements dating back 8,000 years. The park is part of the cultural sites in the city of Al Ain and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.”

In spite of the circumstances presented by the pandemic, the emirate continued to enhance its cultural proposition. Al Shaiba said: “When travel restrictions were first put into place and cultural sites in the emirate were forced to temporarily close, we sought new opportunities and methods to continue engaging our audiences and stakeholders, resulting in the launch of the CulturAll platform and the #Staycurious campaign. The mindset behind these efforts was to provide consumers with the opportunity to explore Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural offerings through these virtual platforms from the comfort and safety of their homes.”

Al Shaiba noted that the government’s exemplary handling of the

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crisis in the emirate allowed for a quick and complete reopening of its cultural sites. “Despite a period of disruption, we are forging ahead with our longterm strategy for the sector and the cultural scene remains as vital as ever.”

As the emirate makes strides in this realm, the Saadiyat Cultural District is taking shape in the heart of the UAE capital. Set to open later this year, the hub will host international art exhibitions and live performances. It is already home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat and Berklee Abu Dhabi and in the coming years will see the addition of Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

TIMELESS TRADITIONS In 1998, Sharjah was named the ‘Cultural Capital of the Arab World’ by UNESCO and in 2014, it was recognised as the ‘Capital of Islamic Culture’. The result is a modern emirate that looks forward to a bright future with a keen focus on conserving its roots. Boasting an extensive portfolio of cultural sites, Sharjah continues to undergo significant transformation.

Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Chief Operating Officer, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), said: “Heritage and culture play a major role in urban renovation as is evidenced in some of Sharjah’s key sites that blend history and heritage with leisure and luxury. This balance resonates beautifully in the Heart of Sharjah, the

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Cultural Tourism - Feature

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1 Diriyah, Saudi Arabia 2 Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi 3 Heart of Sharjah 4 Hegra, AlUla

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first and largest historical preservation and restoration project in the region.”

This ambitious undertaking aims to preserve and restore the old town of Sharjah in a five-phase plan set to be completed by 2025. It has been proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and will feature a full restoration of Sharjah Fort, the Sharjah Heritage Museum and several important houses of pearl merchants.

Even with the pandemic, there was no slowing down. Al Qaseer said: “With the travel restrictions imposed by the pandemic, it was our diversified portfolio of culture-led urban regeneration projects that enabled residents to rediscover and take pride in the emirate’s cultural offerings.”

Highlighting significant sites within the Shurooq portfolio, Al Qaseer said: “The Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-Tourism Project will open the portal to a historic site which goes back to more than 130,000 years.

“We have also placed culture at the heart of sustainable development in the emirate and this is reflected with the opening of the House of Wisdom, a social hub that references the region’s glorious past, and Moon Retreat within the mountain ranges along Mleiha.

“We believe that by establishing stronger links between historic sites and cultural monuments, we can safeguard the traditions of our past while also protecting the local heritage and culture.”

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KINGDOM CALLING When Saudi Arabia unveiled its Vision 2030, one of the key mandates was to boost its cultural tourism offering.

The kingdom currently boasts five UNESCO World Heritage Sites in addition to a host of activities and attractions that gives visitors insights into the cultural fabric of the country.

The latest destination to be recognised by UNESCO, Al-Ahsa Oasis is home to gardens, canals and springs along with a number of historical buildings and archaeological sites.

There is evidence of human settlement from as far back as the Neolithic period, considered to be between 9,000 and 11,000 years ago, while the city of Al-Ahsa itself dates back to 5,000 BCE. In Riyadh, an ambitious cultural development is taking shape with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif at its heart. When complete, the seven-square-kilometre destination will transform the historic town of Diriyah into a global tourism hub, showcasing more than 300 years of Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage.

Another significant UNESCO World Heritage Site in the kingdom’s north-west still undergoing restoration and opening up to visitors in phases, AlUla is one of the oldest cities in the Arabian Peninsula.

Once at the crossroads of the Silk Road and the Incense Route, it boasts historical, geological and geographical significance.

Phillip Jones, Chief Destination Management and Marketing Officer,

Governments across the world are willingly investing in cultural venues

the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: “AlUla is a symbol of the kingdom’s commitment to pioneer a model of sustainable cultural tourism. It represents an authentic history of exchange and interaction between cultures that goes back thousands of years. It’s the combination of the preserved sites, the stories of human ingenuity behind the attraction and the breathtaking landscapes that makes AlUla a must-visit.

With international travel currently restricted, domestic tourism is bringing visitors to the site in large numbers.

“There is no doubt that the global tourism industry was one of the hardest-hit sectors by the pandemic and this came at a time when the kingdom was first opening up to tourism. But if we look at the bright side, AlUla was able to launch a domestic campaign to encourage Saudi residents to discover this ancient destination that is at their doorstep.

What we found is a domestic market that is eager to learn more about the ancient civilisations in their own land and an eagerness to experience all of the adventure, dining and wellness experiences we have created.”

Following a three-year hiatus for extensive restoration work, AlUla Old Town recently reopened its doors to domestic visitors and efforts are currently underway to continue to open up more sections. Once travel restrictions are eased, the site hopes to attract a large number of international visitors, in a safe, secure environment.

“It will be interesting to see the effects of the pandemic on all demographics of travellers as international travel resumes.

Some research predicts that meaningful, inspirational travel destinations with vast, open spaces will be favoured and that the next generation will seek more off the beaten track destinations, in which case, AlUla is positioned well,” explained Jones. “There is no doubt that cultural sites like AlUla will help with tourism recovery in the kingdom and continue the momentum started by the Saudi Tourism Authority with their global campaign.”

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Destinations

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan Tourism Board / EU2750

This exciting new destination is bustling with everything from history and culture to world-class events.

With easy on-arrival visit visas for residents of many countries, including the UAE, and a range of direct flights offered by budget airlines, including Flydubai, this previously undiscovered country is now gaining popularity.

Good value hotels and easy movement within the country make it an escape worth considering before the word spreads further.

In the pre-COVID-19 era, numbers were rising fast and during the first nine months of 2019, the country saw record numbers, with 2.4 million foreign visitors from 191 countries visiting this coastal country by the Caspian Sea, more than 9.5 percent up from the same period in 2018.

Tourists from Russia accounted for the largest portion or 30 percent of the overall visitor influx with Georgia coming in at number two with 22 percent, while Turkish travellers comprised 8.2 percent to claim the third largest portion. Iran,

Baku skyline

Sochi

Saudi Arabia, the UAE, India, Ukraine, Turkmenistan, Israel and Kazakhstan followed the top three countries.

It’s plain to see that this nation appeals to many. While nestled between Europe and Asia, it is a blend of historical empires, forging itself as a new nation emerging from the postSoviet 1990s as a must-see destination.

Now hosting Formula 1 and Europa League football, the nation, tucked between the Caspian Sea and the majestic Great Caucasus Mountains, has much to offer tourists.

Cosmopolitan Baku, the coastal capital city, boasts a UNESCO-listed centre while glittering with 21st-century architecture. But this home to several natural wonders has much to offer just a few hours’ drive away.

Close by, in the semi-desert terrain, lie the country’s mud volcanoes and intriguing fire phenomena, which has resulted in Azerbaijan’s title as the ‘Land of Fire’.

Slightly further afield, visitors feel that timeless sense of tradition in the more rural areas of the country, where lush green orchards are backed by the dramatic scenery of the Great Caucasus Mountains.

Old City, Baku

Tucked between the Caspian Sea and the Great Caucasus Mountains, Azerbaijan has much to offer Xinaliq

From the mountainous coastline to the gushing waterfalls found futher inland, Sochi’s well-rounded tourism proposition also comprises historical sites and a vibrant nightlife

Wow Sochi / EU2660

One of Russia’s southernmost cities, Sochi is located on the Black Sea coast and lies roughly 1,600 kilometres south of Moscow. As Russia’s busiest seaside resort, it attracts more than four million visitors every year.

This resort town gained fame when its neighbouring resorts first hosted the Winter Olympics in 2014.

Better known in the sporting world, Sochi is also home to the almost six-kilometre-long Sochi Autodrome circuit, the fourth-longest circuit

Having long been overlooked by visitors, Azerbaijan has now captured the world’s attention as a land of contrasts, with cultural traditions inspired by its location at the crossroads of Asia and Europe

on the Formula 1 calendar, which hosts the Russian Grand Prix.

The town is often referred to as the ‘Russian Riveria’ as citizens flock to its sunny shores during the summer, thanks to its active recreation options and private beaches.

Inland, visitors can find lush mountains, gushing waterfalls and historical sites, along with a vibrant nightlife scene. Just outside of town, the Agura Valley offers easily accessible hiking amid waterfalls and sublime views.

Sochi is located on the Black Sea coast and lies roughly 1,600 kilometres south of Moscow In 2019, Dubai-based carrier Flydubai started operating flights to the “Russian summer capital”, bringing an influx of visitors from the region to this blossoming destination.

Port of Sochi

Krasnaya Polyana valley

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5/18/21 4:07 PM

Destinations

Jordan

Jordan has delighted visitors for centuries with its World Heritage Sites, historic towns and inspiring desert landscapes that have featured in a host of movies

Jordan Tourism Board / ME2355

With abundant natural wonders – think the dramatic lunar-like landscape of Wadi Rum – and ancient treasures found aplenty in the rock-hewn city of Petra, the Kingdom of Jordan lures an increasing number of foreign visitors year after year.

Thanks to its fascinating tourism offering, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and intriguing villages included, the country has also become a favourite among filmmakers. Wadi Rum, a protected desert wilderness, has featured in a host of movies from

Amman Citadel

The Monastery

Indonesia

Lawrence of Arabia, shot in 1962, to 2016’s Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

Tourism in Jordan received another boost when Britain’s Prince William visited the country in July 2018.

An oasis of calm in the Middle East, Jordan was enjoying a boom in tourism numbers before the pandemic. While visitor numbers have decreased owing to the crisis, the country hopes to build on its success from 2018, when it witnessed one of its best years yet for tourism.

The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia / AS3650

Indonesia brings together nature, culture, heritage, island escapes and adventure travel, giving visitors many smaller destinations to explore within a single destination.

While the island of Bali is the nation’s most popular and most visited destination, there is so much more to see and do across the country. From the volcanic island of Lombok, full of hidden treasure and divine beaches, to one of its cultural capitals, Yogyakarta, known as the cradle of civilisation on Java, there is much beyond the Balinese island.

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan

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Petra saw its second-largest number of visitors during the year since it was established as an official tourism destination, while Jerash, home to some of the best Roman ruins outside Italy, saw a considerable increase in visitor numbers.

As the world rebuilds tourism back better, Jordan has, without question, set its sights firmly on the future. To meet this boom, the country is working hard to train more tour guides to tailor the offering to visitors, especially focusing on those speaking Chinese dialects and other Far Eastern languages, with an increase in visitors expected from the region.

Keeping up with its tradition of welcoming visitors since the days when camel caravans plied the legendary King’s Highway, transporting frankincense in exchange for spices, Jordan has plenty to offer travellers today, from its historic monuments to its stunning desert.

With abundant natural wonders, the Kingdom of Jordan attracts an increasing number of visitors year after year

Renowned for its beautiful beaches, Indonesia has a staggering 54,716 kilometres of coastline and is made up of 17,508 islands

Wakatobi

Indonesia is a huge nation composed of hundreds of cultures derived from local regions, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world. Keen travellers have their sights set, eager for the nation to open to visitors once again.

The country is currently in talks with other nations to operate travel bubbles as it tries to speed up its vaccination efforts and it also revealed that it aims to welcome back foreign tourists to the resort islands of Bali, Bintan and Batam by the end of July.

Offering plenty to do once it reopens, visitors can enjoy everything from thrilling caving adventures to

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Indonesia is a huge nation composed of hundreds of cultures derived from local regions exotic diving escapades, challenging volcano climbs, intriguing jungle treks, water sports, surfing and hiking.

Those looking to relax and unwind can take their pick from spa holidays, yoga retreats, cooking courses as well as local dance and jazz festivals. Also, the country’s therapeutic hot springs are dotted around the region while traditional Indonesian spa therapies are there to soothe and calm.

Both on land and under water, an array of fascinating marine life is

waiting to be discovered. Wakatobi is widely recognised as having the highest number of reef and fish species in the world. The islands are also famous as the largest barrier reef in Indonesia, second in the world only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Meanwhile, the island of Flores is not only home to the fascinating Komodo dragons, but also pristine waterfalls and lakes where visitors can kayak among the craggy coasts and explore mysterious caves.

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Destinations

Fujairah

Nestled among pristine beaches and the dramatic mountains, Fujairah is an all-encompassing destination in the UAE, popular among locals, residents and international travellers alike

Fujairah Tourism & Antiquities Authority / ME4215

Nestled on the UAE’s east coast, Fujairah offers a wealth of things to see and do, from its sleepy coastal town to its dramatic mountain-lined shore.

In Al Aqah, known for its serene seaside resorts, outdoor activities and mountainous backdrop, a range of resorts offer attractive packages for visitors eager to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The area is preferred for water sports, including snorkelling and scuba diving. Snoopy Island is especially popular as it is home to a vast array of sea life from reef sharks to turtles.

In the city, age-old customs still practised today, such as the famous Friday bullfighting, offer an intriguing insight into the local culture and traditions. For history and heritage, there is no shortage of sights, including the UAE’s oldest mosque – Al Bidya Mosque on Fujairah’s mountainous coastline.

Dating back to around 1446, it is a precious relic made of mud and stone.

The emirate’s forts, including Fujairah Fort on the Kalba border, offer a glimpse into a life gone by. Al Bithna, Awhala Fort and Al Hail Fortress are rich in history, having withstood battles from the region and beyond. They offer a fascinating way to see how life was

before the discovery of oil transformed the economic fortunes of the UAE. Fujairah Museum pays homage to the many arts, crafts, weapons, costumes and traditions of the Bedouin tribes in generations before, one of the many reasons making Fujairah a destination for all.

In 2020, the emirate proved popular among UAE residents forgoing international travel for staycations closer to home. This resulted in a seven percent rise in the average daily rate figures in Fujairah, compared to 2019 levels, a momentum which the emirate will no doubt continue to maintain this year.

Fujairah Fort

Snoopy Island Al Hajar mountains

Fujairah offers a wealth of things to see and do, from its sleepy coastal town to its mountain-lined shore

Slovenia

Abundant in natural wonders, Slovenia boasts snow-capped peaks, turquoise-green rivers, a stunning coastline, dazzling architecture, rustic culture and sophisticated cuisine

Slovenian Tourist Board / EU2300

Known for its stunning lakes, mountains and ski slopes, Slovenia is easily accessible for many markets. Before the pandemic, the number of airlines, from major carriers to budget airlines, flying into the country had skyrocketed.

Though its lakes and national parks form a huge attraction, its magical castles, churches and mysterious caves give travellers an array of ways to explore the country’s hidden treasures.

Not only does the country offer some impressive skiing, but its gorges, rivers and lakes host a number of water sports from thrilling white water rafting to kayaking. With an array of

Jezersko

mesmerising waterfalls to rival many in the region, nature lovers feel like they are a world away from the stresses of the city in Slovenia’s magical landscapes.

In Ljubljana Old Town, with its anchors in heritage, it is like stepping back in time. Enjoyed either by foot or by bicycle, it is a feast for the eyes with its cathedrals and churches, bridges and waterside views; the perfect place to stroll the winding narrow cobbled streets or sit and enjoy the world go by in one of the many quaint coffee shops and restaurants.

Due to its position, surrounded by some of Europe’s most exciting

gastronomic destinations, Slovenian cuisine takes a little of everything.

With an array of vibrant flavours from Italy, Austria, Hungary and the Balkans, ingredients are fresh and usually locally sourced, making the country a great food lovers’ destination, with some delicious hearty dishes, from pasta to dumplings, as well as the popular grape tours of the area.

Nature lovers feel like they are a world away from the city in Slovenia’s magical landscapes

Lake Bled

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5/18/21 8:46 PM

ATM

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4/23/19 5/18/21 4:38 8:25 PM

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Vox Pops

What the exhibitors say...

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JAMES HEWITSON General Manager

RICHARD HADDAD Chief Executive Officer

SAUDI TOURISM AUTHORITY “ATM is an important platform for us to drive awareness of Saudi as a unique tourism destination with authentic Arabian experiences at the core of our offering. It is also a forum at which we will engage and inspire the global travel and tourism ecosystem around Saudi’s rich culture and heritage and our incredible natural wonders. Saudi is investing more in tourism than any other country in the world and building a global network of partnerships to make the true home of Arabia accessible to more people than ever before. We welcome organisations that are eager to be a part of the exciting future of Saudi tourism.”

RAFFLES DUBAI & SOFITEL DUBAI THE OBELISK “We are looking forward to seeing and interacting with most of our business partners after so long, whom we have dearly missed. Even behind masks, we will be surely exchanging smiles along with our passion for the industry and a strong desire to collaborate together. It will be the first ATM following the recent opening of our flagship property, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, considered as one of the leading new hotels in the region that we look forward to introducing further to our partners. It is also an opportunity for us to re-emphasise the strong positioning of the iconic property Raffles Dubai.”

ANANTARA THE PALM DUBAI RESORT “New opportunities always emerge from times of disruption. Those who comprehend the new post-pandemic reality, adjust and respond will benefit from this new environment. Dubai has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to the needs of the situation and will continue to maintain its position as a world-leading destination driving success in the months ahead and beyond. ATM is an opportunity for us to expand our networks, get information on new trends and developments to remain at the top level of our industry. We plan to showcase our brand, grow awareness, and market share within the region.”

JANNAH HOTELS AND RESORTS “The 28th edition of Arabian Travel Market at Dubai World Trade Centre is considered to be the first and the largest in-person travel trade fair after the start of the pandemic. The world is eager to discover the latest opportunities available to travel at the show and we are ready to showcase our diverse hospitality offering with the amazing support of the leadership of the United Arab Emirates to welcome the world once again. The show is proof that the travel and tourism industry in the region and in the world is well on the journey to health recovery. We are looking forward to our participation in this year’s show.”

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

LAURENT A. VOIVENEL SVP – Operations & Development, Group Human Resources & Talent Development

ALEXANDER SCHNEIDER President

SLOVENIAN TOURIST BOARD “We hope to present Slovenia as a green and safe country in the heart of Europe.

Moreover, Slovenia is considered one of the most sustainable and trustworthy countries in the world. The pandemic has shaken world tourism. This is why Slovenia’s commitment to sustainability, combined with the fact that there are no large crowds and that nature is clean and preserved, is more important than ever.

The Slovenian Tourist Board introduces the Green & Safe label, which highlights hygienic standards and upgrades existing sustainable practices.”

THE VISION DESTINATION MANAGEMENT “It is an energising feeling to be back in action and welcome our peers. Our industry has suffered an unpredictable year and we don’t know what recovery will look like. Each country took a different approach to lockdowns and openborders policies. The Vision Destination Management has been able to sail during this storm and we feel confident and ready. I hope all my colleagues, whether clients or suppliers, will be able to understand that our most important mission is to restore confidence.”

SWISS-BELHOTEL INTERNATIONAL “ATM Dubai is the first major live event for the travel and tourism industry in 18 months and we are delighted to reconnect and share our latest developments with our industry partners. It is crucial for all of us to reunite in the global recovery efforts of the travel and tourism industry and Dubai is once again taking the lead in this direction. On this occasion, we would like to thank our owners, guests and associates for their continued support and trust. We look ahead to a dynamic future by reinforcing our presence in existing and new markets.”

NIKKI BEACH HOTELS AND RESORTS “This year’s Arabian Travel Market will have a special significance as the show will officially mark the turning point from a crisis-driven market to a recoverydriven market. The UAE has already been benefitting greatly from this trend since the first quarter of 2021 and this event will drive not only numbers but also trigger a more positive outlook and mindset which is essential for our industry at this stage. We are confident that our approach to the post-pandemic market will outpace our best-case scenario.”

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v

DISCOVER A WORLD OF LUXURY AT YOUR ADDRESS Experience premium lifestyle hospitality within iconic locations with luxury, style and elegance. Marvel at the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa from your room, be mesmerised to the dance of the Dubai Fountain, magical sunrises over our beach resort, find a shopaholics haven at The Dubai Mall and lots more.

Unwind in one of our impeccable suites, relish your appetite with an array of award winning restaurants or visit The Spa for sheer rejuvenation and relaxation. With distinguished entertainment and retail at our doorstep, this is where your family will feel at home with ours.

For more information visit ADDRESSHOTELS.COM

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EVERY SUMMER HAS A

Story

WHAT’S YOURS?

LIVE YOUR STORY WITH US Some dreams live forever with us, some adventures bring us closer together, some moments enrich our souls and some experiences revive our senses.

From breathtaking beaches to vibrant city escapes, there is a lot to love about summer at Rotana. Live your story with us and book your stay at any Rotana hotel or resort with 20% off rooms, a complimentary extra bed and many more benefits.

Book now via rotana.com

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