The Hotel Show Daily- day 01

STRATEGIC PARTNER

OFFICIAL

DAILY NEWS 28-30 SEPTEMBER 2014, DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE

A Celebration & Achievement 15 Years Strong

CONTENTS

THE HOTEL SHOW 2014

P. 06 | INDUSTRY NEWS Mobile Website vs. Mobile App: Which platform is best for your business? Travel Bookings via Mobile Devices increases by more than 20% in the first six months of 2014

Following an outstanding event in 2013, The Hotel Show looks forward to 2014 with even more exhibitors, exciting sectors, industries and presenting a full 360 view of the hotel and hospitality JOEVTUSZ from 38 countries and visitors from 99 countries.

HINA NAVIN he Hotel Show started as a small interiors supply exhibition in 1999 and 15-years later it has turned into a prominent and the largest business event within the hospitality, hotel and tourism sector for the MENA region. Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, the organizers are expecting (based on 2013 stats) that the expo will gather exhibitors from 38 countries and visitors from 99 countries.

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Taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from the 28-30 September 2014, the gala expo is also an esteemed annual meeting place for sourcing, networking, and education for the hospitality and leisure industries. It is a comprehensive showcase of investment, design and builds along with refurbishment, fit out, operations of hotels, restaurants, leisure destinations, and resorts.

P. 10 INDUSTRY NEWS DTCM Revises Hotel Classification Law in Dubai

Continued on Page 3

BURJ AL ARAB TURNS 15

Marking its 15th birthday, the hotel offers Best of the Burj package

HINA NAVIN urj al Arab has surpassed the meaning of being lavish. Designed to look like a billowing sail that stands at a height of 321 meters, it is undoubtedly the city’s most high-profile landmark that has attracted many celebrity visitors including Naomi Campbell, Tiger Woods, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, Michael Jackson, to name a few, over the years.

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Celebrating the 15 successful years of operations this year, the iconic hotel offers a premium Best of the Burj package, promising the guests a stay that will create memories to last for a lifetime. The package offer includes a stay in a two-storey suite, a spectacular arrival in a renowned Burj Al Arab chauffeur-driven white Rolls-Royce Phantom, a Continued on Page 3

P. 22 | LEISURE SHOW 6 Mega Projects that Dubai will offer-Theme Parks that will excite the kid in all of us

2014 Produced by Diversified Media Corporation FZ LLE Appointed by dmg::events While Diversified Media Corporation have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this publication, dmg::events and Diversified Media Corporation FZ LLE will not be held responsible for any errors therein. All right reserved.

DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

THE HOTEL SHOW Continued from cover page

There were 16,700 international hotel and hospitality trade attendees and around 560 exhibitors at the 14th edition show in 2013. The event is hosted in a robust marketplace that will witness a massive growth in this sector in the coming years with the mega events such as EXPO 2020 in Dubai and The World Cup 2022 in Qatar in the pipeline. The event showcases a rich spectrum of luxury and contemporary interiors, essential equipment and the latest technology and highlights the trends to a market. Thus the region provides enormous business opportunities for hospitality professionals and their associates to meet decision makers and get on the supplier’s list for the major projects.

The International Village is a brand new concept

introduced in the 15 edition of hotel show. Following the previous edition, 56% of visitors indicated that they were attending the expo to source international products. Therefore, to make the search process easier for the expo guests, the International Village will display products and services from several country pavilions, under one roof.

The Leisure Show sector has grown remarkably. It accounts for over 70 per cent of the total travel and tourism spend in the GCC. Almost 8000 of The Hotel Show visitors who attended in 2013 were looking to source leisure products and 7% had a budget responsibility of more than US$1 million. Last year, the leisure show attracted a dedicated audience of more than 1500 professionals from theme parks, spa resorts, sports facilities, golf courses, real estate, shopping malls specifically looking for outdoor and leisure products, furnishings, equipment and services.

The Leisure Show is an ideal place to meet with the designers, architects, contractors, real estate developers and decision makers responsible for USD

73.07 billion in total value of Leisure projects in the construction stage in GCC. The Leisure part of The Hotel Show caters to four main sectors, Outdoor Design, Furniture & Equipment; Pool and Spa; Sports & Fitness; and Recreational Fun and Adventure.

The other features of the event are the Vision Conference, where over 70 industry heads and leading global players share knowledge, best practice, industry trends and future vision for improving hotels, restaurants and leisure facilities. The Future Hotel, Sustainable Vision, which in collaboration with WT Studio, Italian design office, will showcase the new architectural concepts, in collaboration with top design brands to key industry decision makers, developers, investors.

82%

$4BN

OF EXHIBITORS WERE COMPLETELY SATISIFIED WITH THE EVENT AND WILL RETURN IN 2014

GENERATED IN NEW BUSINESS DEALS FOR THE NEXT 12 MONTHS AS A RESULT OF THE HOTEL SHOW Continued from cover page

six-course degustation dinner and a spa experience, starting from AED 5,990 a night.

The Burj’s name literally means Arabian Tower, is located on an artificial island, which is 280m from Jumeirah Beach. This masterpiece hotel has been consistently voted the world's most luxurious hotel and is one of the most photographed structures in the world.

Staying at the Burj Al Arab Hotel, all-suite hotel is the epitome in luxury. The 28 double stories tower contains 202 luxury duplexes of superior standard.

There are seven different suites options available for the guest and the collection range from 170 to 780 square meters with a rain shower and a Jacuzzi in each suite.

The hotel has become the hottest place in the city, featuring Majlis Al Bahar, a beachside lounge located on Burj Al Arab’s private beach; waterparks; helicopter transfers and tennis court that sits on the very top of the building. Dining at the Al Muntaha restaurant, located 660 ft. above the Persian Gulf, offers guests an ecstatic view of Dubai while the

THE GALA EXPO IS AN ESTEEMED ANNUAL MEETING PLACE FOR SOURCING, NETWORKING, AND EDUCATION FOR THE HOSPITALITY AND LEISURE INDUSTRIES.

CELEBRATING THE 15 YEARS OF OPERATIONS, THIS ICONIC HOTEL OFFERS A PREMIUM BEST OF THE BURJ PACKAGE, WHICH INCLUDES A STAY IN A TWO-STOREY SUITE, ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM PICK UP, A SIX-COURSE DEGUSTATION DINNER AND A SPA EXPERIENCE, STARTING FROM AED 5,990 A NIGHT.

Al Mahara undersea restaurant, ensures guests has a full view of exotic fish in the surrounding water aquarium.

Architect Tom Wright of WS Atkins has designed this superstructure, which was modeled after the sail of a famous Arabian ship ‘dhow’. The structure design offers a significant tribute to the nation’s seafaring heritage. Its construction began in 1994 and the lavish hotel was officially opened on 1 December 1999.

The interiors of the hotel have a vibrant colour palette and the layout incorporates ancient and revered traditions of hospitality, particular to Arabic nations. The Cascade waterfall combines finely atomized water with fibre optics to produce a unique kaleidoscope effect.

There are three aquariums in the hotel, two situated on each side of the main hotel lobby and the circular tank in Al Mahara restaurant, with approximately 50 species of fish kept in the tanks.

The atrium of this hotel is the world’s tallest, over 180 meters in height.

Burj Al Arab is indeed a crowning glory of the Emirate and an ultimate symbol of modern Dubai.

SEPTEMBER 28-30, 2014

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EXCLUSIVE CLUB

The VIP & Buyers Club at The Hotel Show 2014 is an exclusive by invitation only programme, which allows key business buyers and decision makers to network, meet and engage with fellow colleagues in a luxury and exclusive lounge at the exhibition. The Vision of Founder and principal Investor

MR. SAMIR M. BADRO CHAIRMAN & CEO

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ounder and principal investor, Mr. Samir M. Badro is an Architect and Interior Designer.

Ever since inception, his management style has proven to be professional, successful, and awarding.

Born in 1946 in Aleppo, Mr. Badro attended the Lebanese University (Faculty of Architecture and Interior Design) in Lebanon, and graduated in 1970 with a Master’s Degree in Architecture and Interior Design (Honors).

Until 1973, Mr. Badro worked as an ambitious Architect in Paris, Brussels, and the United States of America. Later he returned to Lebanon where he established his own Architecture and Interior Design firm. With the war breaking out in Lebanon in early 1975, Mr. Badro moved to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where he established the company Greenline Interiors.

Today, Mr. Samir M. Badro is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Greenline Group located in 10 cities around the world, with Greenline Interiors being fully equipped and dedicated to the high-end Interior Design and outfitting industry, leading a professional team of over 2,000 people in different and various positions.

He is an Associate International Member of the American Society of Interior Designers, Member de l'Ordre des Architectes Libanais, and Membre de l’Ordre des Architectes Syriens. Mr. Badro has also been featured in various prestigious local and international media and specialized publications.

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QA &

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Why is The Hotel Show Dubai important to your company’s business plans?

The Hotel Show creates a centralized setting for the Hospitality industry that allows everyone from the developers down to the suppliers to showcase their products. The Hotel Show helps in fostering an environment that enables the industry as a whole to move forward up the steady path of Dubai’s overall goal in becoming the leading tourism hub in the region and beyond. We recognized the potential in this industry over the years and have shifted our focus to target this sector through our proven expertise in high quality interiors fit-out.

SEPTEMBER 28-30, 2014

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TRAVEL BOOKINGS VIA MOBILE DEVICES INCREASES BY MORE THAN 20 PERCENT IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 2014 With smart phones and tablets in nearly every consumer's hands today, travel marketers need to think strategically about developing a highly effective omni-channel marketing experience.

further, we can develop and track specific conversion expectations and metrics for these consumers. There are two types of mobile optimized sites: Dedicated-mobile sites offer specific content and call-to-actions based off the type of device you’re on when viewing the site.

Mobile-responsive sites are the best kind of website to have in this constantly evolving digital world as they create a consistent user experience regardless of the device (desktop, tablet, mobile).

Regardless of the type of mobile website you have, it’s important to ask what core items you are going to convey. You have to be very focused on what you’re saying and how you’re saying it to influence your visitors’ next steps.

HOW TO AVOID MOBILE PITFALLS MOBILE REVENUE SHOULD REACH 20% OF ONLINE TRAVEL DOLLARS IN THE U.S. BY 2016, WHEN MOBILE BOOKINGS REACH $25.8 BILLION.

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ast year, Google Travel found that 25 percent of all online searches for travel came from a mobile device. People are already choosing to search on their mobile devices over a desktop computer in locations where both devices are likely available to them (work or home). It’s no surprise that 56 percent of American adults are smartphone owners; however, with their limited time, attention span and screen space, hoteliers have to adapt, taking any friction out of the equation, and make the website experience seamless and easy-to-navigate for mobile users.

HOW DOES YOUR WEBSITE MEASURE UP? Mobile-friendly sites are the standard version of websites that function normally on all mobile

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phones (e.g. no Flash elements, which aren’t capable with iPhones), but don’t be confused by their title because these mobile sites are not always friendly for your business. All of the content is listed, but there is often a need to pinch and zoom to navigate the site. Images are too small to provide an enriched experience, there is too much copy/content and files and images and videos aren’t optimized for mobile bandwidth.

Mobile-optimized sites are specifically designed for users on a mobile phone. They can be a dedicated version of a website specifically designed for mobile, or a responsive design that adjusts the layout and content of the site to match the website visitor’s device (computer vs. tablet vs. phone). The key is visitors receive a customized experience and

Mobile searches drive behavior in the moment, and consumers want speed and convenience; however, a purchase via mobile phone, even with a mobileoptimized site, can be challenging. The relatively limited screen size on mobile devices generally means that users will spend less time and look at fewer pages. Furthermore, the multiple fields normally required to make a purchase and other key factors represent barriers to conversion, especially when planning travel.

This where the phone comes into play. The bottom line is that most hotels are overlooking the most basic information on their mobile sites, the phone number.

According to Google, three of four mobile searches trigger follow-up actions, whether it is further research, a store visit, a phone call, a purchase or word-of-mouth sharing. On average, each mobile search triggers nearly two follow-up actions.

Calling to make a purchase is one of the easiest options for a traveler when they are browsing hotels via smartphones. Adding an easy-to-find call button on the home page is a step in the right step in optimizing your mobile site.

In the hotel industry, there is a perception that generating a call is more costly than website

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GLOBAL FINDINGS

MOBILE WEBSITE VS. MOBILE APP: WHICH PLATFORM IS BEST FOR YOUR BUSINESS? MOBILE WEBSITE – this will be the best solution for most hoteliers. The vast majority of travelers, both leisure and business, use search to find accommodations. Both paid and organic search listings will direct consumers to your website. Also, mobile websites are platform agnostic and don’t require different programing for different operating systems (iOS, Android, etc.).

MOBILE APP – this strategy can work to complement a mobile website. The primary challenge with a mobile app is driving new customer acquisition so the best case is a hotel with a strong repeat-customer base or loyalty program. Once an app is developed, consumers have difficulty finding it unless they are already aware of the hotel. Consumers that are aware or part of a loyalty program can be encouraged to download it.

The app becomes an extension of the CRM program.

In addition to the tips above, remember to effectively optimise your website for speed and convenience.

Potential guests don’t want to, and won’t, scroll through five pages on their devices to find your phone number.

They’ll go somewhere else. Give them easy access to your product, and give them the option to call.

“MOBILE IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THE EXPONENTIAL GROWTH IN ONLINE TRAVEL BOOKING AND SALES, AND THAT’S ONLY SET TO CONTINUE IN THE SECOND HALF OF THIS YEAR AND BEYOND�

JASON MORSE, VICE PRESIDENT, MOBILE PRODUCT AT CRITEO

bookings. This might be true, but a comprehensive comparison is the cost of booking customers via phone versus shifting business to the OTAs (online travel agencies) such as Expedia (20 percent or more commission cost), or a competitor who made the booking process easier. Not to mention, last-minute booking is very common on mobile devices. Both Orbitz and Travelocity have reported that more than 60 percent of hotel bookings made on mobile phones

were for the same day. Customers want to speak to somebody quickly for this type of booking.

Having a phone number available for questions will also help improve your mobile site. Over time, you will observe trends of information consumers can’t find on your site, which will help you adjust the content. The call center should be viewed as a commerce center, not a cost center.1MFBTF TFF PVS 5FDIOPMPHZ 'BDJMJUZ .BOBHFNFOU &YIJCJUPST

z Mobile bookings are growing faster than desktop: 20 percent versus 2 percent over the first six months of 2014. z Smartphones and tablets account for 21 percent of hotel bookings. z Peer-to-peer apartment rentals is the category with highest mobile penetration (34 percent globally). z The value of mobile bookings is increasing in every area except for accommodation. The average booking value was 21 percent higher for air travel and 13 percent higher for car rentals, but 30 percent lower for hotel bookings on mobile devices than desktop. z In-app bookings account for 12 percent of total mobile bookings. z The value of bookings by device varies across categories: there's an average $600 more spent on packages booked on the iPad compared to those booked via any Android device.

However, the value of Android bookings for flights outpaces all other mobile devices.

REGIONAL FINDINGS

z Asia Pacific leads the way with more than 20 percent of travel bookings made on a mobile device, with Brazil and Germany less than 10 percent. –Pull quote in a red dot/bubble z With a 42 percent increase, Latin America has the most significant seasonal growth in online bookings for travel advertisers. This coincided with the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. z Online travel agencies' bookings climb by 50 percent throughout the season in Europe and the US, but the average value of those bookings falls by 19 percent. For hotel suppliers, however, the booking numbers remain stable throughout the first half of 2014, with peaks in value in February and June.

With smart phones and tablets in nearly every consumer's hands today, travel marketers need to think strategically about developing a highly effective omni-channel marketing experience. That means ensuring the entire consumer experience – from the ads to shopping carts – is mobile optimized.

Determining budget across desktop and mobile must be completely fluid because consumers are making decisions in real-time, requiring that the booking experience be streamlined and integrated with mobile-friendly payment systems to ease the all-important path to purchase."

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SUSTAINABLE BUILD AND ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN Next generation technologies meet sustainability needs THE VISION CONFERENCE FOR SUSTAINABLE KNOWLEDGE

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ustainability projects are not just a passing trend but they represent a real opportunity to improve building performance and quality of life of the local residents. Materials and technologies of latest generation are intelligent, interactive and above all are low environmental impact materials paired to organic forms and natural iconography of the vegetable world.” – Chiara Cantono, Director of WT Project Studio, With hotel developments increasingly having to adhere to new ‘green’ build techniques and practices and sustainability a growing concern worldwide, this year’s Hotel Show in Dubai will see a number of features and initiatives focused on the issue.

Partnering with the Italian architecture studio WT Project, The Hotel Show will introduce the ‘FUTURE HOTEL’ – sustainable design feature. Located in Hall 8, ‘FUTURE HOTEL’ will showcase internationally renowned brands, their products, design concepts and future trend predictions for building design.

Creations and videos with innovative solutions that

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demonstrate the application of latest technologies applied to architecture such as, climate protection solutions including ventilated facades articulated according to building orientation, surfaces that integrate various regenerative energy production methods, geothermic systems, photovoltaic and photocatalytic materials.

Taking inspiration from the structure and functioning of cactus plants, the OASI Skyscraper is one of several new sustainable architectural design concepts that WT Project will present at the Hotel Show.

OASI’s most important property is its capability to collect rainwater. Both the façade and the surrounding structure feature organic shaped niches that help collect the rainwater to the bottom of the building where they are stored, purified and distributed for re-use.

“The materials used are thought to produce the lowest environmental impact and are fully energy efficient” says Chiara Cantono. “Additional

features include natural ventilation for self cleaning windows, a photo catalytic façade to purify the air and a building shell treated with photovoltaic paint to provide energy. The future is in need of self efficient energy solutions and at OASI, we are now able to demonstrate that it is possible to use almost everything you take from nature and turn it into another source.”

The Vision Conference at the Hotel Show Dubai 2014 will also feature speakers and sessions focusing on environmental and sustainable issues across both the hotel, hospitality and leisure industries.

“The Hotel Show is committed to highlighting how design can support the environment and we encourage exhibitors to use the event as the international platform to not only launch their innovations, green and sustainable products and services, but we also have the perfect knowledge platform with the Vision Conference to share knowledge, expertise and ideas through our international speaker line-up” says Christine Davidson , Event Director.

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DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

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King Koil and Serta DTCM revises Dubai hotel classification law Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has modified its hotel classification scheme, with implementation September

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ubai, UAE (September 2014):Dubai customers abreast of the latest development in the Furniture Manufacturing Company LLC industry.�

(DFMC), a market leader in premium The King Koil and Serta stands will be located at mattress segment in Middle East, will be unveiling the the Interiors, Lighting & Design section at The Hotel latest products from King Koil and Serta mattresses at Show. The new products which will be on display this year’s The Hotel Show, the largest hotel supply are additions to existing Serta I-series collection event in the MENA region. and King Koil range. Each product uses advanced Taking place from 28th to 30th September 2014 technology to ensure comfortable and relaxing sleep. at the Dubai World Trade Centre, The Hotel Show About Dubai Furniture Manufacturing Company will highlight new products and designs from key LLC (DFMC): drivers of change in the hospitality arena.

Dubai Furniture Manufacturing Company LLC Sundar Rajan, CEO, Dubai Furniture (DFMC) is a multinational company with its Manufacturing Company LLC, said, “The corporate office in Dubai, UAE and sister COME future of the hotel industry in the UAE concern companies in the other regions VISIT US AT STAND and across the Middle East region is very namely Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain & Oman. promising. After winning the Expo 2020, DFMC has recently ventured into India we saw an inventory of mega-projects such and also set up a full-fledged manufacturing as the Mall of the World, Sheikh Mohammed facility near Pune, India.

Bin Rashid City and Royal Atlantis Resort which Established in 1993, DFMC was set up to create opportunities for suppliers to this industry. manufacture and market “King Koil� branded Investors are expected to infuse billions of dollars to products under license from King Koil, USA. Over these new developments so The Hotel Show is the the years, DFMC has used its marketing acumen and perfect platform to meet and network with them.� hi-tech manufacturing facilities to establish itself as He added: “King Koil and Serta mattresses the leader in the mattress industry in the Middle East. are the preferred brands of the majority of hotels Later, DFMC acquired the license to manufacture in the UAE and across the region and launching and market “Serta� branded products from Serta Inc., the latest products from these brands which are a USA, and the world’s largest mattress brand. Serta benchmark for technological innovation symbolizes and King Koil branded products are manufactured in our commitment to innovation and in keeping our a state-of-the-art production facility in Dubai.

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ccording to Khalid bin Touq, executive director, licensing & classification sector, the authority has changed the “room size perimeter requirements, bringing hotel classification in the emirate in-line with rating systems in other international destinations and this only applies to new hotel establishments�

Touq also said the DTCM has been testing the new system since April 2014, and has received positive feedback on the criteria. He also revealed that more than 570 establishments have registered on the hotel classification system and are working on updating their details. DTCM has also added the availability of Wi-Fi- access in public areas of all new hotel establishments to the criteria.

In June, DTCM also added holiday homes to its existing list of accommodation categories, which includes resorts, hotels, hotel apartments, university campus, youth hostels, and guest houses. All holiday homes will be rated as either standard or deluxe.

The scheme has caused some uncertainty among hoteliers about how the criteria will affect existing hotels and properties under development.

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HOTEL BRANDS IN THE FUTURE

WHAT WILL HOTELIERS HAVE TO DO TO SURVIVE

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t is safe to say that you will receive the same high-level of service whether you are staying in a Four Seasons Hotel in San Francisco, Paris, Budapest or Hong Kong. The Four Seasons brand is well-established. Both business and leisure travelers, who are looking for luxury accommodations, know what to expect when they check in to any Four Seasons Hotel or Resort anywhere in the world. The reason the Four Seasons has such a loyal following is because they deliver on the promise of their brand.

The hotel industry is comprised of many wellknown brands as well as many unbranded properties.

It is dangerous to draw any conclusions about whether you will have a more enjoyable stay if you choose a branded hotel or a family-run hotel, without a well-known brand, two blocks away. The role that branding will play on the future success of hotels was discussed in detail. The key points of the study center on the difference between the mass market and luxury market, the emergence of Lifestyle brands, and the use of social media.

BUILD BRAND LOYALTY It takes money and time to create and build a strong brand. Over the years, some of the world’s most successful companies like McDonald’s and Coca Cola have spent millions, if not billions, protecting, promoting and improving their brand’s image. Every customer that orders a Big Mac at McDonald’s

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IT TAKES MONEY AND TIME TO CREATE AND BUILD A STRONG BRAND. OVER THE YEARS, SOME OF THE WORLD’S MOST SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES LIKE MCDONALD’S AND COCA COLA HAVE SPENT MILLIONS, IF NOT BILLIONS, PROTECTING, PROMOTING AND IMPROVING THEIR BRAND’S IMAGE. knows that they will get the exact same Big Mac in San Diego, Miami or Mountain View. A loyal Coke drinker will not buy a Pepsi or any other type of cola drink. Without their brand, McDonald’s and Coca Cola would be just another hamburger joint or soda company. Brand loyalty is what every non-generic company wants.

In the hotel industry, brand loyalty tends to be a greater choice factor for travelers who stay at luxury hotels and not as important for travelers who stay in economy or more modestly priced hotels (mass market). The person who chooses to stay at highend hotels is more interested in the experience than the price. The person who chooses to stay in more modest accommodations is more interested in the price than the experience.

Mass market hotels attract hotel guests primarily because of price and location. Other than price, and possibly location, they do not perceive much of a difference between staying in one two-star hotel or

another two-star hotel. People who book rooms in two or three-star hotels are looking for a comfortable bed, a clean room and competent service. Brand loyalty is low as this large group of travelers are driven more by the cost to stay overnight than having a special experience.

Major hotel operators recognize that there is opportunity to build brand loyalty in every market segment. Almost every major chain participates in a loyalty program where guests earn points and rewards each time they stay. Hoteliers can also help build their brand and differentiate themselves from their competitors by adding value to a guest’s stay.

Common extras that guests enjoy include such things as free in-room WiFi and continental breakfasts.

Turning to the luxury segment, the best way to build brand loyalty is to offer guests something they want that they can not get at your competitor’s hotel. Individuals stay at high-priced hotels because they want a wonderful experience. Almost every top-of-the-line hotel has high thread-count sheets and comfortable beds. They have business centers, exercise equipment, swimming pools, a bar, and a nice restaurant.

It is not always easy to differentiate your hotel from that of your competitor’s hotel, but that is the key to creating brand loyalty in the luxury hotel market.

Hotels have to work hard to know their guests and understand what really makes them happy. Instead of putting chocolates on the pillows, surprise your guest with a gift basket of unique local items. Go the extra step and slip your guest’s home town newspaper under the door so he’ll have something familiar to read with breakfast. Use your imagination to create good experiences and positive impressions for your guest.

USE SOCIAL MEDIA EFFECTIVELY It is common practice for almost every hotel brand to have an active presence on social media sites.

If done properly, a good social media strategy can enhance a hotels name and brand recognition, create loyal customers, and drive profits. Social media can also be a two-edged sword. If your hotel disappoints guests, and does nothing to remedy the situation, that can quickly erode brand loyalty. Today, and in the future, hoteliers must pay close attention to how they use social media.

In the future, hotels will have to step-up their game in order to not fall behind their competition. Hotels that differentiate themselves from their competition by providing better service, better value, and better guest experiences, will prosper. Hotels that do not do such a good job will lose business and struggle to survive.

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DAMAC PROPERTIES ANNOUNCE PARAMOUNT HOTEL DUBAI, DOWNTOWN Dubai - DAMAC Properties has announced its latest luxury hotel in Dubai, a fourth project in Dubai in collaboration with the luxury hotel operator, Paramount Hotels & Resorts.

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oasting 1,250 luxury rooms and suites, the 'Paramount Hotel Dubai, Downtown' will showcase timeless Hollywood elegance meets Californian lifestyle with contemporary styling, and a polished integration of elements of Paramount Pictures movies through high tech media mapping and digital signage. As a compliment, the property will honor its own identity influenced by the local creative communities, becoming a living showcase of contemporary arts reflected in every facet of the hotel.

Concept design of the project which will be developed on a plot located just off Sheikh Zayed road in the Downtown area is already underway with the hotel set to open its doors in 2018.

"The number of visitors to Dubai is set to double in the next six years and the Paramount Hotel Dubai, Downtown will support the growth with a high-end, theatrical and immersive experience for international tourists," said Ziad El Chaar, Managing Director, DAMAC Properties. "Our current projects under development with Paramount Hotels & Resorts have proved immensely popular and there is clearly a high demand for unique and luxurious hotel accommodation in Dubai."

With the sales launch planned for early next

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year, the Paramount Hotel Dubai, Downtown will present an opportunity for investors to buy into Dubai's booming tourism market, which is set to exceed 20 million tourists by 2020. The impact of hosting the World Expo the same year is anticipated to significantly grow that number.

The hotel rooms will be made available for investment during the build phase of the project, with buyers able to capitalize on revenue from the room rates when the project opens. According to the latest figures release by the Department for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), hotels in Dubai welcomed more than 5.8 million tourists in the first half of 2014, which is a record half-year record for the emirate.

"We are in a unique position to be able to bring the very best technological practices being used in the Hollywood blockbusters seen on screen, into a cinematic and transformative hotel environment, which will make every moment in the Paramount Hotel Dubai, Downtown an engaging and refreshing experience," said Thomas van Vliet, Chief Executive Officer at Paramount Hotels & Resorts. "Dubai is perfectly positioned to further entice international visitors, with a pleasant climate, safe environment, amazing shopping experiences and globally-

recognized tourist attractions."

DAMAC Properties released its first association with Paramount Hotels & Resorts in March last year with the four-tower iconic development, DAMAC Towers by Paramount Hotels & Resorts, which saw sales exceed AED one billion in fewer than two months of the launch. The project includes luxury serviced residences and a hotel, overlooking the Burj Area of Dubai and construction is ongoing.

The two companies are also collaborating on a beach-front hotel, Paramount Hotel Dubai, Jumeirah Waterfront, serviced villas in AKOYA, namely DAMAC Villas by Paramount Hotels & Resorts and a serviced hotel apartment project on King Fahd Road in Riyadh in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, DAMAC Towers by Paramount Hotels & Resorts.

Established in 2002, DAMAC has delivered almost 11,000 units to date and currently has a development portfolio of over 26,000 units at various stages of progress and planning as of June 30th 2014, which includes over 10,000 hotel rooms and serviced hotel apartments.

Further information is available at www.damacproperties.com or join DAMAC Properties on Facebook, Twitter (@DAMACOfficial) and YouTube.

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www.unipods.ae | info@unipods.ae

Head Office - Ras Al Khaimah, UAE + / 117 / 118 Branches in Jeddah, Riyadh & Dammam .FNCFS PG UIF "M 3BKIJ )PMEJOH

DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

THE HOTEL SHOW

Dubai International registers record 6.6 million passengers in August 2014 Tourism bounces back despite construction 45"'' 83*5&3

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ubai, UAE – September 2014 – Passenger traffic at Dubai International bounced back from a three-month slump resulting from a major runway upgrade project which concluded on July 20, to register a record 6.6 million passengers in August 2014.

The monthly passenger traffic at Dubai International reached 6,648,058 in August 2014, up 10.8 per cent compared to 5,999,375 recorded in the corresponding month in 2013. The hub returned to full operational capacity in August following a runway upgrade project that reduced the airport to a single runway for 80 days and cut capacity by 26 per cent. The year to date passenger traffic as at the end of August totalled 46,479,919, an increase of 5.7 per cent compared to the 43,971,839 passengers recorded during the first eight months of 2013.

The traditionally strong Indian Subcontinent topped the list of regions with the largest growth in passenger numbers (+147,096 passengers), followed

by Western Europe (+131,095), Asia (+98,089), the

AGCC (+69,223) and Africa (+64,451 passengers). *The top regions in terms of percentage growth in traffic included North America (28.9 per cent), and Asia (19.2 per cent).

Aircraft movements during August totalled 31,214 movements, a marginal increase of 0.1 per cent from the 31,198 recorded during the corresponding month in 2013. During the first eight months of the year aircraft movements totalled 227,110, down 6.4 per cent from 242,571 movements recorded between January and August last year, reflecting the impact of the runway closure period. Average passengers per movement during August increased to 219.7, up 5.2 per cent from 208.9 recorded during the same month last year, reflecting a move by airlines to larger aircraft.

Monthly cargo volume also rebounded by 4.3 per cent, reaching 192,902 tonnes in August compared to 184,877 tonnes during the same month in 2013. Year to date cargo reached 1,560,869 tonnes during the first eight months of the year, down 2.2 per from 1,596,772 tonnes recorded during the same period in 2013.

10.8%

COMPARED TO 5,999,375 RECORDED IN THE CORRESPONDING MONTH IN 2013

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said: “It’s good to return to more robust growth figures resulting from full capacity and ongoing network expansion after being constrained to a one-runway operation for nearly three months. The numbers are far more indicative of the growth trend we expect to see for the remainder of the year and will be crucial in our journey to the top of the list of the world’s busiest international hubs.�

Royal Atlantis at the Palm ICD and Kerzner International to develop luxury hotel on Palm Jumeirah

BY HINA NAVIN oyal Atlantis Resort and Residences will become city’s new location of attraction showcasing Dubai’s architectural magnificence, a new project unveiled by Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD). The developer revealed that an investment of USD 1.4 billion dollars will be made in the resort expansion that will stand 46 storeys tall, next to the famed Atlantis resort on The Palm.

With a dramatic and modern structural design, the resort will make a distinctive luxury statement that will offer lush green spaces, private infinity pools overlooking the ocean and Palm views, which will give the occupants a feeling that they are literally floating between the sky and sea. The project has been designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) while the interior design is by GA Design. “This next phase of Atlantis, including the luxury residences of The Royal Atlantis, will continue to drive the growth of Dubai forward,� says H.E. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Executive Director and CEO of Investment Corporation of Dubai (“ICD�) and Chairman of Kerzner International. “This investment reaffirms

R

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“THE ROYAL ATLANTIS WILL CONTRIBUTE TO DUBAI’S TOURISM AND HOTEL SECTOR, AS THE EMIRATE PREPARES TO HOST THE EXPO WORLD FAIR IN 2020�

H.E. MOHAMMED IBRAHIM AL SHAIBANI

ICD’s commitment to support the long-term growth of our domestic hospitality market, a key pillar and growth sector for the Dubai economy.� He emphasized in particular the new resort, to be completed by 2018, will heavily contribute to Dubai’s tourism and hotel sector, as the emirate prepares to host the Expo World Fair in 2020.

The 800-room luxury hotel will be managed by Kerzner International. There will be Sky Pool, giving guests an Ultra-Pool experience with extraordinary Dubai city views. The project will also include 250 luxury residences, with excellent recreational, entertainment and services facilities, and is designed

by Sybille de Margerie Design.

Alan Leibman, Chief Executive Officer, Kerzner International says, “The Royal Atlantis Resort and Residences will offer a new resort living experience, completely taking it to the next level, while adding an entirely new dynamic with our ultimate residences. As we continue to focus on our global growth strategy, we are thrilled to be making such a significant impact in Dubai, and to be building off the success of the Atlantis brand, which has been so well-received from guests from all over the world.�

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DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

THE HOTEL SHOW

THE COMPONENTS OF FRANCHISE FEES Hotel franchise companies charge their franchisees a series of fees that cover a variety of services provided by the franchisor.

US HOTELS FRANCHISE RELATED FEES* PERCENTAGE OF ROOMS REVENUE 2007-2013

6.59%

6.62%

6.66%

6.72%

6.64%

T

o gain a better understanding of the fees paid by hotel owners to their franchisors, PKF-HR analysed the operating statements of 1,304 chain-affiliated hotels in our Trends速 database that reported franchise fee payment data each year from 2007 through 2013.

THE COST OF FRANCHISING 6.14%

6.01%

Note: *Brand and Non-brand managed hotels Source: PKF Hospitality Research, Trends in the Hotel Industry

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During the study period, the cumulative total of the four franchise related fees ranged from a low of 6.0 percent of rooms revenue to a high of 6.7 percent.

More often than not, franchise fees are charged as a percent of rooms revenue, or on a dollar per occupied room basis. Therefore, it is not surprising that the franchise fee ratio to rooms revenue remained consistent over the course of the seven years. What is notable, however, is the change in the composition of the franchise fees paid to the brands. Since 2007, the portion of total franchise related fees assigned to guest loyalty programs and royalty payments has

DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

THE HOTEL SHOW US HOTELS DISTRIBUTION OF FRANCHISE RELATED FEES 2007-2013 Guest Loyalty Program

Marketing Assessment

Royalty Payment

Reservation

25.3%

26.4%

27.6%

28.6%

29.1%

31.8%

32.8%

33.5%

30.6%

6.59%

27.1%

27.3%

25.1%

23.8%

21.1%

24.0%

26.0%

25.4%

27.0%

26.3%

26.4%

20.0%

19.0%

18.8%

18.8%

16.7%

16.8%

17.0%

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Note: *Brand and Non-brand managed hotels Source: PKF Hospitality Research, Trends in the Hotel Industry

increased, while the assessments paid for marketing and reservation services have declined.

Measured as a percent of rooms revenue, total franchise related expenditures in 2013 were highest for chain-affiliated resorts (10.5%), followed by limited-service (8.5%), suite with food and beverage

US HOTELS DISTRIBUTIONS OF FRANCHISE RELATED FEES 2013 Guest Loyalty Program Marketing Assessment Royalty Payment Reservation

32.8%

34.7%

19.1%

19.9% 23.8%

24.3%

26.4%

23.1%

50.6%

17.0%

17.9%

All Hotels

Hotels operated by Chain

(7.9%), and full-service (7.5%) properties. Chainaffiliated convention hotels paid the lowest ratio of franchise related fees (4.7%), along with suite without food and beverage properties (6.0%).

LOYALTY AND ROYALTY UP From 2007 through 2013, the portion of total franchise related fees assigned to guest loyalty programs increased steadily every year ranging from 25.3 percent in 2007 to 32.8 percent in 2013. Not only have guest loyalty program payments increased as a percent of total franchise related fees, but the dollars paid have grown the most of all four fee categories increasing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.0 during the seven year period.

Guest loyalty program fees are mostly a function of the revenue generated by loyalty program guests staying at a hotel. Based on interviews with franchising organizations, the percent charged by the

PKF HOSPITALITY RESEARCH, (PKF-HR IS A CBRE COMPANY) CAPTURES FOUR OF THESE FEES DISCRETELY ROYALTY FEES

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING ASSESSMENTS

LOYALTY PROGRAM FEES

RESERVATION ASSESSMENTS

10.4% Hotels operated by Management Company

Source: PKF Hospitality Research, Trends in the Hotel Industry

franchisors has remained relatively steady during the study period. Therefore, it can be assumed that the primary driver of the growth in guest loyalty fees has been an increase in the number of program members staying at properties in the system.

Royalty payments are made for the right to use the “brand name� and be entitled to all the marketing and operational support provided by the franchisor.

From 2007 through 2013, the royalty payments made by the properties in the sample increased at a compound annual rate of 5.3 percent.

MARKETING AND RESERVATIONS DOWN In 2013 the marketing fees paid by franchisees made up just 23.8 percent of total franchise related fees, compared to 33.5 percent in 2007. During the seven year study period, the dollar value of the marketing assessments declined at a CAGR of 4.1 percent. The marketing assessment covers the costs of national advertising campaigns and sales support programs provided by the chain. The decline of this cost can be attributed to the efficiencies of internet advertising and marketing, and the concurrent reduced use of traditional historical forms of advertising and marketing (ex. publications, mailings, radio, TV).

The reservation assessments paid by the hotels in our sample have also declined. During the past seven years, the average property in our sample paid 7.1 percent fewer dollars in reservation fees in 2013 than they did in 2007. Therefore, the reservation assessment ratio, which comprised 20.0 percent of total franchise related fee in 2007, dropped to 17.0 percent in 2013.

DIFFERENCES BY MANAGEMENT Our study sample included self-operated hotels and properties operated by third party management companies, as well as hotels operated by one of the national chains. As expected, we observed a difference in the composition of franchise related fees paid by the chain-operated hotels versus the other properties in the sample.

As expected, the greatest difference in the composition of the franchise related fees was found in the area of royalty payments. Royalty payments comprised just 23.1 percent of the total franchise fees at the chain-managed properties, compared to a 50.6 percent ratio at hotels that are either selfoperated, or managed by a third-party company. The reduced ratio at the chain-managed properties can be explained by the fact that the brands frequently do not charge themselves a royalty payment (possibly in lieu of a management fee), but do charge for other assessments as a part of an allocation of corporate marketing and reservation services.

Owners continually scrutinize the fees they pay to the national hotel chains. Analyzing them on a component basis provides further insights into the reasons for changes in the franchise fees paid, as well as the relative value of each type of assessment.

Visit The Retail Franchise and Hotel Services Exhibitors at The Hotel Show 2014

SEPTEMBER 28-30, 2014

THE HOTEL SHOW

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DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

THE HOTEL SHOW

JW MARRIOTT LAUNCHES NEW SPA BY JW BRAND New wellness concept created to calm, indulge, invigorate and renew

BY HINA NAVIN hink of Spa by JW as an exclusive destination to demystify and re-imagine the spa experience.

JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts launched its first new spa concept - Spa by JW at the new JW Marriott Houston Downtown. The brand’s new wellness concept takes into consideration guest’s time constraints, and allows them to browse through the express treatments that will last for only 12 minutes or pick from the other longer traditional 90-minute indulgences. The treatments offered are luxurious yet purposeful and are designed to address four key pillars: calm, indulge, invigorate and renew Mitzi Gaskins, vice president and global brand manager at the JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts, says, "Our guests are incredibly passionate about wellbeing but they don't always have the time to invest in cultivating it. They are looking for an experience that delivers true impact and results that are tailored to

T

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their state of mind. Spa by JW offers an environment where you can choose exactly what you want, when you want, without any of the intimidation or hassle."

The busy wellness lovers can visit the express spa suites, designed around a massage chair exclusive to JW Marriott, featuring embedded scent infusers, noise cancelling technology, and cell phone charging stations. Treatments include a variety of 12- to 25-minute services like the Relaxing Scalp Massage (Calm), Hydrating Hands (Indulge), Energy Boost Massage (Invigorate), Nail Shine (Renew), and more.

For the other spa enthusiasts who have the luxury of time, there are a variety of treatment rooms to accommodate longer, full-service spa services where they can book fullbody treatments and scrubs, 60- or 90-minute massages, cleansing facials, nail services and more.

The second property to have a Spa by JW will be the Marriott Mumbai Sahar in December, and there are 20 more in the pipeline.

THE BRAND’S NEW WELLNESS CONCEPT TAKES INTO CONSIDERATION GUEST’S TIME CONSTRAINTS, AND ALLOWS THEM TO BROWSE THROUGH THE QUICK TREATMENTS THAT WILL LAST FOR ONLY 12 MINUTES OR PICK FROM THE OTHER LONGER TRADITIONAL 90-MINUTE INDULGENCES.

DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

THE HOTEL SHOW

6 MEGA PROJECTS DUBAI WILL OFFER THAT EXCITES THE KID IN ALL OF US IMG WORLD OF ADVENTURES / DUBAI ADVENTURE STUDIOS A 1.5 million square feet indoor themed entertainment destination, visitors will discover the huge excitement of an epic journey bursting with roller coasters, rides, thrills and adventures. The park will be comprised of 4 EPIC zones: Lost Valley-Dinosaur Adventure, Cartoon Network, IMG Boulevard and MARVEL. According to their Facebook Page, IMGWOA will be the biggest indoor themed entertainment destination in the world. Check out their website, http://www.imgwoa.ae/ to learn more about this marvelous development.

SIX FLAGS Six Flags Entertainment Corp, one of the world’s leading theme park developers, has just launched the tallest theme park drop/ride in the world, the Zumanjaro Drop of Doom. In partnership with Meraas Holding the same developer behind the Bluewaters offshore project in Dubai that is to feature the world’s largest Ferris wheel, Six Flags is expected to build world-class theme park and record-setting rides and amusement.

Tentatively, project completion is set at 2017.

Six Flags Entertainment currently operates 18 themed destinations in North America and Mexico and has revenues of Dh4 billion.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS DUBAILAND At more than twice the size of Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, Dubailand will be the pinnacle of the emirate's tourism draw. Plan to have a Universal theme park in Dubai is still alive.The $110 billion, 280-square-kilometer development by stateowned real-estate firm Tatweer will also include an 11-kilometer strip of themed hotels and sports facilities such as Music City and Tiger Woods's first golf course.

DUBAI SAFARI LEGOLAND DUBAI Grading and early foundation work for the new Legoland Dubai theme park is already under way.

According to this article, Merlin has confirmed that they will move forward with their plans to build Legoland Dubai, hoping to open the park in 2016.

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ALADDIN CITY Not really a kiddie attraction but the name is. No flying carpets, no magic lamps and genies, but the idea is inspired by the tales of Sindbad and, well, Aladdin.

This new attraction that aims to build a huge natural animal habitat will replace the existing 1.5 hectare Dubai Zoo in Jumeirah.. The first phase of construction is already complete.

Authorities hope to open the 29 hectares park by late 2014.

DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

THE HOTEL SHOW

DUBAI, ABU DHABI, OMAN PROMOTE CRUISE INDUSTRY Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority and Dubai’s Department of Tourism promote strengths of the region to cruise industry and travel trade professionals at Seatrade Med Convention

C

ruise Arabia, the collaborative initiative formed

by Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority and Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing to promote the Arabian Gulf as a cruise destination, participated in the three-day Seatrade Med Convention concluded on Thursday in Barcelona, Spain.

Aimed at raising awareness of the Arabian Gulf’s unique destination offering among major players from the international cruise industry, the Cruise Arabia partners showcased cruise tourism opportunities in the Arabian Gulf and the diversity of the region’s destination offering – including its city skylines, desert landscapes and beaches; the world’s most sophisticated malls and traditional souks; natural wilderness and adventure experiences; and its art, culture and heritage. The partners also shared details of the region’s world-leading hotels

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and burgeoning gastronomy scenes to encourage tourists to extend their stays prior to or post cruise travel.

Attracting over 4,000 attendees and 300 exhibitors, the Seatrade Med Convention is one of the most important trade events in the world for the cruise tourism industry and provides an ideal platform for engaging with travel trade professionals from European markets.

Formed in September 2013 with a shared aim to grow and evolve the cruise tourism segment, the Cruise Arabia partners have committed to making a significant investment to the cruise industry across the region, developing its segment infrastructure and creating current and future employment opportunities.

A key aim of the partnership is to encourage a new generation of tourists to cruise in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, spanning new travelers from

traditional markets in Europe and North America as well as those from emerging markets including China, India and the GCC. Hamad Mohammed bin Mejren, Executive Director, Business Tourism at DTCM, said: “Seatrade Med Convention 2014 provides an ideal opportunity to engage with the European cruise industry and travel trade professionals – one of the most important segments for building our regional cruise tourism sector. It is a chance to enlighten this critical audience about the extraordinary experiences of cruise travel in our region and to increase the number of passengers considering and ultimately booking cruises in the Arabian Gulf.”

“As the home port for cruise tourism in the region, Dubai is firmly committed to working with our partners in Oman and Abu Dhabi to promote the strengths, richness and diversity of cruise travel experiences in the Arabian Gulf. By working together we provide a very persuasive rationale for attracting travellers, and bringing more tourists and ultimately economic growth and employment opportunities to our respective markets,” he added.

“We expect the upcoming cruise season to surpass last year’s especially with the new multi-entry UAE visit visa for cruise tourists that was announced last August at just AED200 ($50). The number of vessels using Dubai Cruise Terminal as their home port has increased to six this season, these vessels are also expected to make a total of 83 trips in comparison to the 63 trips that were conducted in the previous 2013/2014 season. We are expecting a total of 110 ship calls carrying around 381,500 passengers in comparison to 93 ship calls carrying 320,000 passengers last year.”

Khalid Al Zadjali, Director of Tourism Events, Oman Ministry of Tourism, said: “It gives us immense pleasure to join hands, once again, with the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA) to promote Cruise Arabia. We are convinced that this partnership will create strong synergy in promoting cruise tourism in the UAE and Oman, enabling tourists to explore the rich and ancient culture of the region, blended with modernity at all levels. Oman is undergoing a rapid tourism growth with cruise shipping being a major contributing component.”

DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

THE HOTEL SHOW

DUBAI BOOMS AS ‘WEDDING

TOURISM’ DESTINATION

The growing number of “wedding tourists” flying into Dubai has not only boosted sales at jewellery stores and bridal suite bookings at hotels, many businesses are springing up to help people’s big day in the desert go off without a hitch

STAFF WRITER hile the city is known all over the world for its sandy beaches, impressive skyline, luxury hotels and mega malls, Dubai is also catering to visitors who want to take home more than just souvenirs – they want to leave with a new husband or wife..

Caroline Garvey set up her Proposal Boutique to offer a helping hand to couples planning to tie the knot, or even men looking for the perfect place to pop the question.

She got the idea after her fiance organised a fiveday trip to New York that culminated in a candle-lit dinner in a closed-off section of Central Park, where he proposed.

“We thought we’d set it up for British people coming to Dubai on holiday, but when we launched it last year the first person to get in touch was someone living here,” Ms Garvey said.

Her clients so far have come predominantly from India and the United States, as well as the UK. Although some men think the more lavish the proposal the better, Ms Garvey said some of the nicest have been those with a smaller budget.

“It’s not about how much you spend, but how much thought has gone into it,” Ms Garvey said, although she is currently planning a hot air balloon proposal as well as a salsa-themed event.

British expatriate James Oliver, 32, who lives in Dubai, was one of Ms Garvey’s first clients.

“I wanted to propose for several months but didn’t know how to do it. I am away a lot and work long

W

hours, so I really wasn’t sure how I would make the proposal work. If Jayne [my fiancee] saw me in the mall running around she would have been suspicious.”

The day included sending his fiancee a Parisianthemed picnic basket for breakfast, a spa treatment, shopping trip, and being driven around in a Porsche limousine, all finished off with him popping the question on board a luxury yacht in Dubai Marina.

Named one of the most romantic restaurants in the UAE by the travel website Trip Advisor, Pierchic at Al Qasr hotel has had a fair share of its customers getting down on one knee with a diamond ring in hand.

“We see guests proposing every second week,” said Margarita Khadyuk, the venue’s manager. “The setting is so spectacular that it’s really a special place to propose.”

Swedes Malin and David Aspehult can vouch for that. In December 2011, Mr Aspehult, 35, proposed to Malin at the restaurant, and two years later to the day the couple were married in the same place by a Swedish priest.

“Dubai is a fantastic wedding destination and I would strongly recommend it,” said Mrs Aspehult, 37.

Capturing a couple’s special day keeps wedding photographer Helen Shippey busy. She has seen the number of destination weddings rise in the past three years, especially from Scandinavian couples.

“The most sought-after locations are the Dubai beaches where you can see the Burj Al Arab Hotel in the background or Burj Khalifa.

“Souk Madinat Jumeriah is also a place many

choose to take photos at since they then get a lovely Arabic feel in their wedding photographs to symbolise where they actually got married.”

Jerome Barbeau, food and beverage director of Mina A’Salam hotel says that the beach restaurant and lounge Shimmers, is the hotel’s prime spot for proposals.

He says staff are asked to assist in proposals by for example, organising flowers, rings and assisting with other surprises. He spoke of one creative couple whose special day took 48 hours of preparations. “An Indian gentleman proposed to his fiance in November and was very creative. He put love letters and notes on the sand all along the red carpet leading to the romantic majlis, where the lady had to pick them up along the way and read the messages,” he said.

“We arranged lots of candles and vases in the shape of a heart on the sand. There was a huge cake with the words ’Will you marry me’. Genuinely the gentleman was trying his hardest to make sure that everything was perfect for his fiancée, which was a joy to assist in.”

He says other proposals have included a private beachside tent with a private dinner and a private band playing exclusively for the couple with the ring hidden inside the flowers decorating the space.

This took two weeks to execute.

“There is no specific time of the year for proposals [but] around the holidays is always very popular for marriage proposals at Madinat Jumeirah. Christmas and New Year are busy times,” he said.

SEPTEMBER 28-30, 2014

THE HOTEL SHOW

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THE HOTEL SHOW

01 OFFICIAL DAILY

SPA TRAVEL MARKET GROWS 58% IN SIX YEARS DAY

New study shows surprise leap following financial crisis, more than 100,000 Spas Worldwide.

S

pa and wellness tourism has grown 58% in the last six years with more than 100,000 spas now available worldwide.

New research released by the Global Spa & Wellness Summit with SRI International has found the sector grown from US$60 billion in 2007 to US$94 billion where there has been a 47% rise in spa locations to 105, 591.

Wellness tourism has developed further reaching US$494 billion in revenues, up 12.5% year-on-year.

New properties and growing travelling markets in Asia, Middle East, Afirca and Latin America are driving the demand particularly as the global

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middle class develops.

Europe is the leading region for the spa industry generating US$29.8 billion (up 62%), followed

by Asia Pacific at US$18.8bn (+65%) and North America US$18.3bn (+35%).

“It has been six long years since our first spa industry research report, and to see nearly 60% growth across years marked by global financial collapse was as impressive as it was unexpected.

Also exceeding our expectations: the growth in the wellness tourism market last year and the sheer scope of the thermal/mineral springs industry,” said Ophelia Yeung, senior consultant,

Center for Science, Technology & Economic Development at SRI. “And key economic and demographic trends, we predict, will continue to fuel growth for these three segments, including the rise of the global middle class (at two billion people now, but expected to skyrocket to five billion by 2030); ongoing, phenomenal momentum for tourism, generally; millions more people each year proactively seeking a ‘wellness lifestyle’; and the story of developing markets, and so many new properties, across Asia, Middle East/Africa and Latin America,” she added.

THE HOTEL SHOW

01 OFFICIAL DAILY

EXPERIENCE FORMULA 1™ IN FIRST CLASS STYLE WITH YAS VICEROY'S ULTIMATE RACE WEEKEND EXPERIENCE would not be complete without some indulgent pampering. After returning from the track, unwind each evening in your private spa room with signature treatments and gift packages at Yas Viceroy’s awardwinning ESPA. Inspired by all the action and fast cars, you can enjoy your own adrenaline-fuelled adventure, taking the VIP tour at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

Finally, spice up your weekend with some great music at the star-studded post-race concerts.

After an action-packed weekend drop back a few gears and fly first class for a relaxing twonight stay in a Beach Villa at Viceroy Maldives. Set over 17 acres of pristine beach, the resort encircles azure lagoon waters boasting rich marine life and stunning panoramic views. Unwind in your private plunge pool and enjoy breakfast and dinner in the resort’s three diverse dining venues include the Middle Eastern-inspired Tree house.

The Ultimate Race Weekend Experience is priced at AED 467,050 (approx. USD 130,000) for two people. For bookings and enquiries contact +971 2 656 0700 +971 2 656 0700 +971 2 656 0700 +971 2 656 0700 or e-mail yas.reservations@ viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

THE ULTIMATE RACE WEEKEND EXPERIENCE INCLUDES:

S

pa and wellness tourism has grown 58% in the last six years with more than 100,000 spas now available worldwide.

This November, the nation's capital will play host to the exhilarating final race of the Formula 1™ series. As the world’s only hotel situated in the middle of a Formula 1™ racetrack, Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi is offering spectators pole position with its ‘Ultimate Race-Weekend Experience’.

Soak up all the action of the 2014 Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in elegance, starting with a private seaplane transfer to the Yas Viceroy Presidential Suite, with a private terrace featuring panoramic views of the track.

Enjoy flowing champagne throughout your stay in the Presidential Suite, which offers panoramic views of the track and marina. Located in the

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Marina Wing, the 400 square metre duplex suite features original contemporary artwork, exclusive bespoke furnishings and a spacious dining room. A private treatment room and relaxation area in our luxurious spa ESPA can be accessed by the in-suite elevator. Additionally, enjoy your own private sauna and steam room before taking a dip in your private 10 metre lap pool, located on the roof terrace.

This exclusive package has been designed to ensure that you enjoy every element of luxury. When you are not watching the race from your terrace, you can head down to explore the city in your Rolls Royce accompanied by your private chauffeur.

A personal chef will be on hand throughout the four days to prepare epicurean delights, such as a decadent feast of oysters and caviar in your private dining room. This once in a lifetime experience

z Seawings private sea plane from Jebel Ali to Yas Links, for 2 pax z Rolls Royce Ghost limo service and chauffeur for 4 days z 4 night stay in a Yas Viceroy Presidential Suite z Private Butler service for 4 days z Personal Chef for 4 days including caviar dinner z Free flowing champagne throughout the stay z Ferrari World Abu Dhabi VIP tour z Access to all F1 private parties z ESPA Gift Package z Daily ESPA luxury treatments z Return first class flight to the Maldives for two persons, subject to availability z Two nights stay at Viceroy Maldives in a Beach Villa, subject to availability (including sea plane transfer, breakfast and dinner for 2 persons) Terms & Conditions apply, subject to availability.

DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

THE HOTEL SHOW

VISION CONFERENCE 2014 DAY 1: SUNDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER 10.30am 11.00am

11.15am - 11.45am

12.00pm - 12.30pm

12.45pm - 1.15pm

1.30pm - 2.00pm

2.15pm - 2.45pm

3.00pm - 3.30pm

3.45pm - 4.15pm

Official opening ceremony KEYNOTE Issam AbdulRahim Kazim, Chief Executive Offic er, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing PRESENTATION Hotel development hotspot Middle East Caroline List, Sales & Product Manager, TOPHOTELPROJECTS PANEL Trends in hospitality and leisure Chair: Rahul Odedra, Editor, Hotelier Middle East Andrew J. Fay, President / Chief Operating Officer, Gettys Group Christopher Hewitt, Senior Consultant, TRI Hospitality Consulting Guy Wilkinson, Managing Partner, Viability Julia Monk, Senior Principal, Director of Hospitality Interior Design, HOK Andre Saade, Multi-Property General Manager, Marriott International Rabih Feghali, Director - Business Development, Roya International PRESENTATION Mega events and legacy Philip Wooller, Area Director, Middle East & Africa, STR Global PANEL What should hoteliers really expect from Expo 2020 and the FIFA World Cup 2022?

Chair: Guy Wilkinson, Managing Partner, Viability Chris Sims, Deputy Chairman, Savills Northern Gulf Mohamed Awadalla, CEO, TIME Hotels L.L.C. Ammar Kanaan, Corporate Director of Operations | General Manager, Auris First Central Hotel Suites David Brown, General Manager, Fraser Suites Michel Jost, Executive Chef, Yas Viceroy Khamis Kazzaz, General Manager, Radisson Blu Resort Sharjah PANEL Development & growth of mid-range hotels Chair: Russell Sharpe, Chief Operating Officer, Citymax Hotels Yousuf Lootah, MBA, Executive Director Tourism Development & Investments, Dubai's Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing Christopher Hewitt, Senior Consultant, TRI Hospitality Consulting Laurent A Voivenel, CEO, HMH (Hospitality Management Holdings) Sumati Murari, Vice President - Hotels & Hospitality Group, JLL Middle East & Africa Steven Miller, Senior Vice President, Business Development, Shapoorji Pallonji International PRESENTATION High growth challenges and opportunities Grant Salter, Director, Head of Travel, Hospitality & Leisure Advisory, Deloitte Corporate Finance Ltd. PANEL Future trends interior design for hospitality, f&b and leisure Chair: Annamaria Lambri, Associate Professor of Architecture & Interior Design, AUD Andrew J. Fay, President/Chief Operating Officer, Gettys Group Marcos Cain, Director/Founder, Stickman Design Julia Monk, Senior Principal, Director of Hospitality Interior Design, HOK Diane Thorsen, LEED AP BA(Hons) IIDA, Principal Design Director, Perkins+Will Kai Schukowski, Hotel Manager, Kempinski Hotel Ajman Simon P Turton, Head of Accessibility & Design, Ebdaah

4.30pm - 5.00pm

PRESENTATION How to achieve full occupancy - casestudy London Olympics Donna Taylor, Director, Village and Games Services

5.15pm - 5.45pm

PRESENTATION How to cope with challenges in food safety & regulatory compliance Bobby Krishna, Principal Food Inspection Officer - Food Control Department, Dubai Municipality

6.00pm - 6.30pm 6.30pm - 7.00pm 7.00pm

PRESENTATION Women in hospitality leadership Stephanie Aboujaoude, Area Director, Marketing - Middle East & sub-Saharan Africa, The Rezidor Hotel Group NETWORKING SHOW CLOSE

SEPTEMBER 28-30, 2014

THE HOTEL SHOW

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DAY 01 OFFICIAL DAILY

THE HOTEL SHOW

GENERAL INFORMATION

OPENING TIMES 28th September 2014 – 30th September 2014 11:00am to 7:00pm

ADMISSION Admission to the exhibition is restricted to trade and professional visitors. Admission is free for such visitors upon completing a registration form or presenting an industry-relevant business card. Children under 16 are not allowed into The Hotel Show.

PROHIBITIONS The organizers reserve the right to refuse admission to the exhibition without having to provide a reason.

They also reserve the right to order the expulsion of any person whose behaviors, in the opinion of the organizers, makes such action desirable.

Canvassing for orders or for any other purpose by any unauthorized person is prohibited, and the right of expulsion will be exercised at once. No leaflets or other matters may be distributed or displayed in any part of the exhibition except by exhibitors from their own stand. Obstruction of gangways for filming or photography is prohibited unless permission is obtained from the Organisers.

4, Office 4.2. The Operations Office is located in the lobby of Hall 3, Office 3.2. The Hotel Show 2014 is organized by dmg :: events, a subsidiary of one of the world’s leading exhibition and publishing companies, part of the Daily Mail & General Trust plc. dmg :: events also organize Index, Big 5 exhibitions, ADIPEC and The Office.

cafes within the Halls. You can also find a selection of bars, restaurants and cafes in The Plaza area and Concourse 1 and 2.

THE VIP & BUYERS LOUNGE

FIRST AID

The VIP & Buyers Lounge is only accessible to VIP or Buyers badge holders. The VIP lounge is located inside Hall 2 at Stand 2F81. A selection of exclusive events and networking opportunities will be hosted inside the VIP & Buyers lounge.

A first aid station is located in the lobby of Hall 5A. A pharmacy is located in the concourse outside Hall 6.

Contact the Organisers’ Office if necessary.

BANKS Emirates Bank has a branch within the venue, in the concourse between Halls 3 & 4. A National Bank of Dubai branch is located in the foyer of Sheikh Maktoum Hall. Both banks have 24-hour ATM access.

A Business Centre is located in the concourse outside Hall 3. There is also a Post Office in the concourse near Sheikh Maktoum Hall.

CATERING AND REFRESHMENTS

The show team office is located in the lobby of Hall

Light refreshments and snacks are available from

THE HOTEL SHOW

SEPTEMBER 28-30, 2014

The prayer rooms are located on the second floor above the bubble lounge above Sheikh Rashid Hall.

PRESS OFFICE The Press Office is located at the entrance of Hall 7, Office 7.1

STAND PHOTOGRAPHY Please contact the organizers office for more details.

DISCLAIMER BUSINESS CENTRE

OFFICES

30

PRAYER ROOMS

The Hotel Show Catalogue is published by dmg world media Dubai Ltd. and great care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the content but the publishers accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions.

All contents are copyright dmg world media Dubai Ltd and may not be reproduced in any form without prior written consent.