Middle East and North Africa Edition
MONACO’S RICH LIST Monaco is targeting wealthy travellers from the Middle East with an exclusive, invitation-only programme intended to pique the interest of the very rich. Only 300 individuals from around the world have been selected to participate in the scheme, dubbed Monaco Private Label.
Emirates Hotels and Resorts has handed over management of its maiden property, Al Maha Desert Resort, to Starwood Hotels, in an attempt to raise the resort’s profile. The property will be integrated into Starwood’s network under the company’s Luxury Collection brand and renamed as Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa, Dubai.
3 KANOO TRAVEL Middle Eastern travel management company Kanoo Travel has announced a major expansion, with 10 new offices planned for Saudi Arabia. The increase is designed to capitalise on the country’s boom in petrochemicals and infrastructure development projects.
4 In This Issue Market Update Accommodation News Air Travel News International News Agents’ Corner Travel Tips Travel Talk Who’s Moved Rendezvous Events NOVEMBER 6, 2010
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Al Maha
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TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY Editor Laura Warne Deputy Editor Louis Dillon Savage
Oversupply Blamed for Occupancy Decline throughout Middle East With the exception of Saudi Arabia, the Middle East region has recently seen significant decreases in hotel occupancy, compared to 2009 figures.
Design & Layout Elina Pericleous Sales & Marketing Marianna Tsiamas Dimitris Thomaidis
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l Tameer Real Estate Investment flagged an overall decrease of 9.4 Directors Andreas Constantinides percent across the region in Mary Kammitsi August, with occupancy hitting Headquarters 53 percent. P.O. Box 25255 Specifically, the UAE, Beirut and Cairo all saw Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +35722820888 severe declines in hotel occupancy; Beirut was hit Fax: +35722318958 hardest with a 37.3 percent drop, reaching 47.1 Website percent. www.traveltradeweekly.travel Regionally, Al Tameer described the UAE’s Emails performance this year as continually dismal, with info@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel double digit declines in both occupancy rates and sales@traveltradeweekly.travel RevPAR during August, compared to 2009. Increasing hotel supply is blamed for driving down occupancy levels. In Abu Dhabi alone, occupancy has dropped 17 percent year on year and average room rates are down by 12 percent, despite reported increases in visitor arrivals. Lawrence Franklin, strategy and policy director at Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), said the emirate would continue to push for greater visitor numbers MENA Exchange Rates to fill new rooms. Accurate as of 03/11/2010 He said ADTA was targeting a 15 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar
COUNTRY UAE (AED) Egypt (EGP) Saudi Arabia (SAR) Lebanon (LBP) Bahrain (BHD) Jordan ( JOD) Syria (SYP) Kuwait (KWD) Qatar (QAR) Oman (OMR) Tunisia (TND) Morocco (MAD) Iran (IRR) Yemen (YER) Algeria (DZD) Libya (LYD)
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CURRENCY Dirham Pound Riyal Pound Dinar Dinar Pound Dinar Riyal Rial Dinar Dirham Riyal Rial Dinar Dinar
1USD= 3.69 5.78 3.75 1501 0.37 0.70 46.18 0.28 3.64 0.38 1.38 8.04 10,430 215.01 73.50 1.17
percent increase in hotel guests for 2011. “Market dynamics are making Abu Dhabi more competitive than at any time in its recent history, however we also recognise the need for balance between operational performance and consumer value,” said Franklin. Bucking the downward trend, Saudi Arabia’s hotel occupancy rate improved by 10.1 percent and RevPAR in Riyadh grew by 11.4 percent. Despite the flagging occupancy rates across most of the region, a host of new hotels are still on the books. As of August, Al Tameer listed 449 hotels in the MENA construction pipeline; the region ranked third in the world in terms of hotel construction, following Asia Pacific and Europe. The UAE has the largest number of hotels in the regional pipeline, with Dubai still the clear leader among the emirates in terms of upcoming developments. Specifically, Al Tameer said interest in budget hotels was expanding, as countries in the Middle East continued to position the region as a mass market tourism destination. As of July, budget hotels in the region constituted approximately six percent of total hotel supply, but this percentage is expected to increase.
Emirates Hits Record High with USD925m Emirates has posted a net profit of AED3.4 billion (USD925 million) for the first six months of its financial year (ending September 30, 2010). The results represent a 351.2 percent increase on the airline’s figures for the same period of 2009. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, CEO of Emirates Airline, said profits would be invested in growing the company further, with 62 new aircraft ordered in the first half of the financial year.
“The results for the first half of the 2010-11 financial year are incredibly robust and reflect Emirates’ success in growing customer demand, supported by investment in new aircraft, products and customer service,” he said. “Our strong position today is reflective of our ability to adapt, returning us to a vigorous period of growth.” Passenger traffic was up during the first half, with 15.5 million passengers and a record seat factor of 81.2 percent. NOVEMBER 6, 2010
Invitation-Only Travel Scheme Targets UAE Monaco is targeting wealthy travellers from the Middle East with an exclusive, invitation-only programme intended to pique the interest of the very wealthy.
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nly 300 individuals from around the world have been selected to participate in the scheme, dubbed Monaco Private Label. This week, Monaco’s Government Tourist and Convention Authority (MGCTA), announced that 20 new members from the UAE would be added, becoming the first participants from the Middle East. Michel Bouquier, president of MGCTA, said the decision to include Middle Eastern members came on the back of growing interest in the tiny country.
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“The fact that Monaco is definitely a firmstay on the radar of every well travelled high net worth individual in the UAE led us to bring the Monaco Private Label concept to the region this year,” he said. “Bringing the Monaco Private Label concept to the UAE will help us develop the sort of personal relationships that help build long-term ties to a destination.” Private Label membership is for life and includes perks such as personal attention from government officials, guaranteed tee times at golf courses, meals cooked by famous chefs and private shopping services.
Monaco
Bringing the Monaco Private Label concept to the UAE will help us develop the sort of personal relationships that help build long-term ties to a destination
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Kanoo Travel Targets Saudi Arabian Boom Middle Eastern travel management company Kanoo Travel has announced a major expansion, with 10 new offices planned for Saudi Arabia.
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he increase is designed to capitalise on the country’s boom in petrochemicals and infrastructure development projects. Abdullah M Abo Khamseen, executive general manager of Kanoo Travel, said the company was also investing heavily in technology upgrades and training centres. “Over the last few years our business has grown tremendously in [Saudi Arabia] and we want to ensure that we offer our customers best in class professional travel management services using the latest technology with the best customer service,” he said.
Kanoo Travel already operates three regional training centres in Saudi Arabia and offers a range of services such as online travel solutions for corporate customers, as well as exclusive female-only centres. The company also holds an exclusive partnership deal with American Express Travel Services; Nabeel Kanoo, board director of Kanoo Travel, said this partnership set the company apart from its regional competitors. “The collective strengths of Kanoo Travel and American Express are unmatched in this region and wider afield,” said Kanoo. “We are pleased to announce that we will
continue to invest in our service delivery and steady international growth, offering not only the best travel management solutions to the travel industry, but also to our customers as a whole.” The group is also targeting the youth and student market, through an existing partnership with STA Travel.
The collective strengths of Kanoo Travel and American Express are unmatched in this region and wider afield
Eastern Mangroves on Track for 2011 Opening The Eastern Mangroves mixed-use development from Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Investment and Development Company (TDIC) is on track for completion in late 2011. Upon completion, Eastern Mangroves will offer resort, retail and residential options, in addition to an integrated marina. The project, situated along 1.2km of coast on the east side of Abu Dhabi’s mangrove stands, is now 60 percent complete. Angsana Resort and Spa Eastern Mangroves will become the tourism cornerstone of the project, offering 223 hotel rooms, three restaurants and a luxury spa. Angsana, now in its tenth year as a brand, is operated by Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts as a sister brand to its Banyan Tree properties. Eastern Mangroves
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NOVEMBER 6, 2010
GET IN TOUCH WITH NATURE. AL AIN WILDLIFE PARK & RESORT (AWPR).
Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort (AWPR) is a place for people who want to experience and learn about wildlife and conservation in a unique, natural desert setting. Come and enjoy life in touch with nature.
For opening times and special attractions call 800 AWPR (2977) or visit www.awpr.ae
- Accommodation
Cristal Hotels Signs Deal for Second UAE Property Cristal Hotels and Resorts has partnered with Emerald Middle East Real Estate to manage its second property in the UAE.
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he 112 room Cristal Salam Hotel is expected to open by early 2011 in Abu Dhabi. According to Peter Blackburn, CEO of Cristal Hotels and Resorts, Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a major business destination has increased the demand for hospitality services in the emirate. “The opening of Cristal Salam Hotel early next year should help ease the supply gap for value hotel accommodations and provide an exciting new destination for the emirate’s increasing number of visitors and business travellers,” said Blackburn. “Cristal Hotels and Resorts’ brand of
hospitality has been on par with the best in the world, as manifested by the remarkable success of Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi, which is our first venture in the UAE.” Blackburn added that Cristal planned to operate a total of 25 hotels in the UAE within five to 10 years.
Cristal Salam Hotel
Peter Blackburn
New Chalets Target Lebanese Ski Tourism Lebanon is gearing up for winter and the skiing season, with an increase in chalet and hotel accommodation in the popular ski resort spot of Mzaar-Kfardebian. Budget hotel Auberge Suisse recently undertook an overall renovation on its rooms and lobby, in order to target low cost travellers. According to Ronald Sayegh, owner of Skileb.com, ski tourists visiting Lebanon are varied, with requests running the gamut from five star resorts to self-catered apartments. “Though the majority of our guests are GCC expatriates, their needs are diverse and thus we are always on the hunt for new hotels and chalets to meet their requirements,” said Sayegh. MzaarVille is another new low cost option in the region, offering 10 fully equipped chalets aimed at families and groups. Ski tourism is relatively new to the Lebanese market, but the country’s ministry of tourism has been heavily promoting the sector in recent years. According to the ministry, Mzaar Kfardebian is the best ski resort in the country, in terms of infrastructure and facilities. Other options include private ski resorts Faqra-Kfardebian and Zaarour; family friendly spots at Laqlouq and Qanat Bakiche; and The Cedars Ski Resort, located on the highest range in the country. 6
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Fairmont Makkah Opens for Hajj Pilgrimage Fairmont’s long awaited Makkah property in Saudi Arabia, Fairmont Clock Royal Tower, has opened in time to service incoming Hajj pilgrims.
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he hotel occupies the central tower of Makkah’s landmark Abraj Al Bait complex, home to several other hotels, which was built to upgrade the facilities available for pilgrims to the city. Comprising seven towers and including the largest clock face in the world, Abraj Al Bait directly overlooks the Masjid al Haram, the holiest site in Islam.
We are honoured to offer exceptional services to Holy Land pilgrims
NOVEMBER 6, 2010
Makkah Clock Royal Tower stands 577m tall, housing 858 rooms and suites. Mohammad Arkobi, managing director of Fairmont Raffles Hotels International in Makkah, focused on the role the hotel would play in supporting the Islamic community. “This event is a momentous opportunity to provide a new amenity to Muslim pilgrims and visitors from all over the world,” he said. “We are honoured to offer exceptional services to Holy Land pilgrims and look forward to ensuring our visitors have truly memorable experiences with us.” In addition to the hotel, the clock tower
incorporates a lunar observatory, a museum of Islamic icons and art, more than 10,000km of fiber optic cable and 76 elevators. Abraj Al Bait
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- Accommodation
Emirates Hands Over Al Maha Management Emirates Hotels and Resorts has handed over management of its seminal property to Starwood.
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he property will be integrated into Starwood’s network under the company’s Luxury Collection brand and renamed as Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa, Dubai. Emirates will retain ownership of Al Maha and continue to sponsor and manage the desert nature reserve attached to the hotel. Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, said the decision to outsource management represented an attempt to raise the profile of the property. “As a leading hotel management group, Starwood's Luxury Collection brand represents some of the finest properties across the world, and with their extensive network, global infrastructure and history of successful brand management, we are confident that they will take Al Maha to even greater heights,” he said. An Emirates spokesperson said the company currently has no plans to outsource management of its recently launched Wolgan Valley property in Australia, or any future projects. “We treat every decision on a case-by-case basis, and it is not reflective of how we will proceed with our other properties,” she said. “We evaluate all our businesses on an ongoing basis: if we feel that there are any
Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa
areas that can benefit from third party expertise, we will bring them on board.” Emirates’ spokesperson said the management transfer reflected an intensified focus on the company’s new Australian hotel.
[This decision] is not reflective of how we will proceed with our other properties
The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, developed alongside the hotel, was the first of its kind in that country. Roeland Vos, president of Starwood in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, said his company would continue to add Middle Eastern hotels to the Luxury Collection, which currently includes Grosvenor House and now Al Maha.
Al Maha was the first hotel opened by Emirates Hotels and Resorts, showcasing the approach of natural and heritage conservation taken by the brand; an approach which the property pioneered in the UAE.
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Layia Hospitality Opens Sixth Dubai Hotel, in Al Qusais Area Layia Plaza Hotel has opened in Al Qusais, Dubai. The hotel is the latest iteration of the relatively young Layia Hospitality brand, marking the company’s sixth hotel. It will operate as a four star business hotel; Layia has emphasised the attractiveness of the property and location to transitory aircraft crew. 8
However, Freddy Farid, area vice president for Layia, said the hotel would be suitable for a range of travellers. “Layia Plaza Hotel will appeal to business
We are confident that the hotel will be well received
and leisure travelers alike from the local and international markets,” he said. “With its key location coupled with outstanding facilities and services we are confident that the hotel will be well received in Dubai and the region in general.” The property is located on Damascus Road in Al Quasais and offers 232 rooms. NOVEMBER 6, 2010
- Air Travel
Flydubai Grows Fleet and Expands Network Flydubai has further increased its reach, with new aircraft and aircraft financing arrangements propelling the launch of a spate of new routes.
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he carrier has taken delivery of its tenth B737 aircraft from Boeing, boasting the first receipt of that company’s new sky-roof concept (which uses colourshifting lights to acclimate passengers to changes in sky colour brought about by sunrise and sunset.) Flydubai has also secured a series of saleand-leaseback agreements with Avolon, GECAS and BBAM, with a total value of USD1 billion. The agreements cover the sale of Flydubai aircraft to the companies, who will hold ownership while leasing the vehicles back to the carrier on long-term contracts.
According to Ghaith al Ghaith, CEO of Flydubai, these deals have secured the financial future of the carrier. “Our next 13 aircraft are now completely financed, which takes us through to December of next year,” he said. "This is a further indication that the international financing community views Flydubai and Dubai itself as a good investment for the future.” John Higgins, president of Avolon, the most recent financier, affirmed his confidence in Flydubai as a viable long term prospect. “A key element of Avolon’s strategy is to identify airlines that are long-term winners and to back them in scale,” he said.
“Our team is uniquely experienced in structuring large and innovative sale-andleaseback financings and we look forward to further developing our relationship with Flydubai and our presence in the Gulf over the coming years.” Flydubai has also undertaken a series of new routes. The carrier has commenced flights to Russia, with connections to both Yekaterinburg and Samara. Links to Abha, capital of the Asir province in Saudi Arabia, and Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan have also been scheduled. Flights to Abha will start on November 23, followed by flights to Ashbagat on November 30.
Inside Availability with Royal Jordanian Jordan’s national carrier, Royal Jordanian, is targeting travel agents with an upgraded global distribution system (GDS) participation agreement with Travelport. The new deal will give Galileo and Worldspan connected agents real-time connectivity to the airline’s inventory, including access to last seat availability, current pricing, seat maps, instant bookings and confirmations and e-ticketing capabilities. Dina Azar, head of distribution with Royal Jordanian, said the new feature would boost productivity and operational cost savings for the travel trade, as well as providing management and inventory control benefits to the airline. “Royal Jordanian continually seeks new and innovative ways to expand our services to the travel agent community, which is why we are delighted to offer real-time connectivity to our flight inventory through our new level of GDS participation with Travelport,” said Azar. Royal Jordanian currently has a network of 58 destinations; the airline’s membership in the Oneworld global airline alliance gives passengers access to more than 700 cities worldwide.
Royal Jordanian continually seeks new and innovative ways to expand our services to the travel agent community 10
NOVEMBER 6, 2010
- Air Travel
Airport Show Dubai Set to Double in Size in 2011 According to Reed Exhibitions Middle East, the number of exhibitors at Airport Show Dubai is set to double at next year’s event.
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he 2011 exhibition will be the eleventh iteration of the event, which focuses on the construction, management, technical, administration and commercial aspects of airports. Mohamed Bader-Edin, organiser of the event, said strong interest had already been received far in advance of the show, which will be held between May 31 and June 2, 2011. “This year, we have already seen a significant increase in the number of exhibitors who are keen to participate in this leading industry event,” he said. “With only 32 weeks left for the show,
we anticipate more investors to register participation and confirm their presence at the much-awaited calendar event.” Bader-Edin noted the strength of airport development in the Middle East as a potential driver of growing interest. “Industry estimates point out that more than USD43 billion worth of airport-
related projects are currently estimated to be underway across the region,” he said. “With these projects requiring some of the latest technologies and services, we predict the 2011 Airport Show will be highly rewarding for investors and trade visitors.”
Industry estimates point out that more than USD43 billion worth of airport-related projects are currently estimated to be underway across the region
Qatar Airways Increases Vietnam Capacity Qatar Airways has launched new flights to Vietnam, opening a connection to Hanoi and increasing frequency to Ho Chi Minh City. The carrier now operates a total of 11 flights into Vietnam per week. Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways, said his airline was seeking to develop its position in the market early to capitalise on Vietnam’s rapid economic growth. “Vietnam has long been an attractive leisure destination and with the country’s economic strength continuing to build, we are also seeing more business travel in and out of the country,” he said. “Qatar Airways has introduced its new Hanoi route and placed additional frequencies to Ho Chi Minh City to push our advantage over our competitors and to grow our market share as the country grows.” Four direct flights will run per week to both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, supplemented by three flights per week to the latter via Bangkok, Thailand.
We are seeing more business travel in and out of the country NOVEMBER 6, 2010
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- International
Marriott Kicks off European Renaissance After flagging plans to double its presence in Europe by 2015 earlier this year, Marriott International has announced three new additions to its European development pipeline.
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hree boutique hotels have been signed and will carry Marriott’s Renaissance brand. These latest deals bring the company’s current European pipeline tally to 27 hotels currently in development. The new hotels will include Renaissance Lucerne Hotel, Switzerland (opening 2011); Renaissance Aix-en-Provence Hotel, France (opening 2012); and Renaissance Paris Saint-Cloud Hotel, France (opening 2013). Amy McPherson, president of
Marriott International in Europe, said the Renaissance brand focused on discovery and unique experiences. “As we continue to expand throughout Europe, I am excited for us to add distinctive hotels like these, which embody everything Renaissance is about, to new destinations for us such as Aix-en-Provence and Lucerne,” said McPherson. While the two Renaissance properties planned for France are new-builds, Renaissance Lucerne Hotel will be housed in the former Hotel Schiller building, which dates back to 1909.
As we continue to expand throughout Europe, I am excited for us to add distinctive hotels like these
China’s Aircraft Demand Set to Take Off The size of China’s combined aircraft fleet will triple over the next 20 years, making it the largest aviation market outside the US, according to estimates from Boeing. Randy Tinseth, vice president of marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said demographic shifts within China were applying upward pressure to the market for commercial airliners. “China is one of the world's fastest growing and dynamic aviation markets, driven by the urbanisation of China, the growth of its economy and ever-increasing personal wealth," he said. “We expect domestic passenger traffic for China to grow at a rate of 7.9 percent on average.” Boeing estimated a total of USD480 billion worth of aircraft, or 4,330 vehicles, would be required over the course of the 20year projection. A large majority (71 percent) would be accounted for by smaller, single-aisle aircraft.
China is one of the world's fastest growing and dynamic aviation markets 12
NOVEMBER 6, 2010
- International
Canadian Travel Interests Demand Policy Reform The Canadian National Travel and Tourism Coalition (NTTC) has released a white paper calling for reform in taxation of the travel industry in that country.
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TTC is comprised of the Canadian Airports Council (CAC), Hotel Association of Canada (HAC), National Airlines Council of Canada (NACC), Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) and International Air Transport Association (IATA). Canada
According to David Goldstein, president of TIAC, Canada’s tourism industry has declined in recent years – a fact that he blamed on regulatory failings. “Since 2002, Canada has slipped from the eighth most-visited destination in the world to the fifteenth,” he said. “If we are to compete globally and regain our position as a top 10 destination in the world, the policy-based impediments that have been built in to our sector need to be addressed.” The coalition has called for fairer taxation, directed to assist the growth of the travel industry; a policy regime that would level the playing field with nearby US competitors; immigration reform to ensure
access to a skilled labour force; and policies to increase the global competitiveness of Canadian companies.
The policy-based impediments that have been built in to our sector need to be addressed The last factor resonates with recent comparisons between Canadian and Middle Eastern approaches to aviation. UAE airline, Emirates, has clashed with Canadian carriers over plans to increase flights into the country, with Emirates accused of benefiting from unfair subsidies, based on tax free operations in the UAE.
Hilton Worldwide Focuses on Conrad Brand with 14-Hotel Pipeline Hilton Worldwide will nearly double its global portfolio of Conrad Hotels and Resorts properties over the next three years. There are currently 15 Conrad properties operating around the world, but Hilton’s latest pipeline shows 14 new hotels in the planning or development stage. Key global properties will include Conrad New York, US; Conrad Dubai, UAE; Conrad Sanya Haitang Bay, China; and Conrad Koh Samui, Thailand. Other strategic locations will include India, Portugal, Indonesia, South Korea and Fiji. John T A Vanderslice, global head of luxury and lifestyle brands at Hilton Worldwide, said the brand would target high-end consumers. “Offering a world of style, service and connection, Conrad hotels and resorts are designed for today’s affluent traveller, which means providing the services and amenities needed for our guests to enjoy the luxury of being themselves,” said Vanderslice. “The expansion of Conrad Hotels and Resorts further into the Asian market as well as to our growing markets, such as the US, are strategic milestones for us.” The pipeline of Conrad properties includes new-build hotels and conversions of existing properties. NOVEMBER 6, 2010
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Kuoni Group Acquires UAE Agencies Destination management and travel group Kuoni has acquired Gulf Dunes LLC and Reem Tours and Travel LLC. The two UAE based travel companies have been acquired in full, but will continue to be managed by their previous owner Gamal Fathy. Gulf Dunes and Reem Tours will both operate under Kuoni Group’s Destination Management Arabia/Africa organisation. The acquisitions are in line with the group’s current expansion plans for the Gulf, which are particularly focused on the MICE sector; Gulf Dunes specialises in MICE tourism and also operates a branch in Muscat, Oman. Kuoni already owns the UAE based destination management company Desert Adventures Tourism. Yasser Noman, CEO of Kuoni Group for the Middle East and Africa, confirmed that all employees at Gulf Dunes and Reem Travel would be retained, along with the original branding of both companies. “It is a great pleasure to announce these two acquisitions... that give Kuoni Group Destination Management a great opportunity to further develop the MICE business segment in the Middle East and at the same time strengthen Kuoni’s position as a leading destination management company in the Gulf region,” said Noman. All parties have agreed not to divulge the purchase prices involved in the acquisitions.
Agent’s Insight Name: Amine Nasser Position: General Manager Company: Saad Tours Location: Lebanon Who are your highest spending clients? Corporate incentive groups, definitely. These groups are looking at complete programmes, airport to airport, with excursions, hotels and team-building exercises.
What are the most popular holiday activities for your clients? Lebanon is a very small country and I like to refer to it as a boutique market. For most of our guests we provide a combination of activities so that they can experience the highlights of Lebanon. Also, Saad is the first traditional tour operator in Lebanon to launch responsible tourism programmes. I am a founding member of Beyond Beirut, which promotes rural tourism in Lebanon and contributes to the economies of the country’s regional areas.
When did you get involved in the travel industry and how has it changed since then? I started out 10 years ago in 2000. The industry has changed a lot in that time, although unfortunately the political issues faced in Lebanon have had more impact on tourism to the country than the changes to the industry. In the past few years there has been much improvement and more demand.
Where are you most interested in visiting next and why? Considering I travel a lot, for me it is not fun anymore – it’s a part of business. Normally, I go on holiday to disconnect from work. Where I go depends on whether I am travelling with my family or not. With the kids, we usually go places that offer good services for children. For short trips, Dubai and Turkey are great locations to take the kids to; further afield, the Maldives, Far East and Europe are all good.
Why is internet booking increasing in popularity? In Lebanon this is progressing slowly – internet booking is definitely coming, but it is a much smaller percentage of business compared to other destinations. Basically, this is related to the fact that policies and rates change constantly in Lebanon and people want to have confirmation from a person that everything is ok. We are currently working on our own online booking platform, but we are not sure what percentage of business it will represent, considering we focus on tailor-made packages. 14
NOVEMBER 6, 2010
Co-operation is the Future of Traditional Travel Distribution Good news for traditional travel agents: the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has made a series of revelations about the still important, but changing role of face-to-face travel distribution.
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ccording to IATA, traditional travel agents still account for 70 percent of revenue for IATA member airlines (which in turn account for 93 percent of scheduled air traffic). In emerging markets, such as the Middle East and Asia, the ratio is even higher. However, the industry is changing and business practices have to change alongside. Trends picked out by IATA as important to the future of travel agent-driven distribution include the rise of ancillary revenues and the increasing importance
NOVEMBER 6, 2010
of supply chain co-operation in all areas. Aleks Popovich, senior vice president of IATA, said the organisation’s relationship with a network of travel agents allowed greater insight into the way travel commodities are sold, providing opportunities for both individual businesses and joint destination marketing. “Airlines, hotel chains, car rental companies, cruise lines, tour operators and even local tourism authorities can see who’s selling their product around the world,” he said. “The industry supply chain can use this information for a number of activities,
from fraud prevention to e-marketing campaigns to facilitating critical functions like revenue accounting,” he said.
Airlines, hotel chains, car rental companies, cruise lines, tour operators and even local tourism authorities can see who’s selling their product around the world
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Westport Yachts
Gina Costa Commercial Director for the Middle East and Africa, Hertz “The region is still recovering from the recession, and we want to help people enjoy their holidays. Eid Al Adha is about spending time with family and friends, not worrying about breakdowns and repairs.”
Helal Saeed Almarri CEO, Dubai World Trade Centre “Around one third of the world’s fleet of superyachts are owned by Middle East residents, many of which originated from Saudi Arabia, which makes the Saudi International Boat Show the ideal platform for yacht builders to promote their luxury products and services. The inclusion of Trinity Yachts and Westport in our exhibitor lineup reflects the growing prominence of the kingdom in particular as the most untapped and lucrative leisure marine market.”
One third of the world’s fleet of superyachts are owned by Middle East residents
Andy Keeling Park Manager, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (speaking at the theme park’s opening on November 4, 2010) “We are so excited to finally share the thrill and excitement of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi with our guests. From more than 20 years in the theme park industry, I personally feel that there is nothing more rewarding than watching people’s reactions as they experience the rides for the first time and today was a truly momentous day for all of our guests. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi offers a truly amazing experience for every member of the family and I look forward to welcoming our visitors in the weeks and months to come.”
The region is still recovering from the recession
Hertz Middle East
Guests arriving at Ferrari World
Today was a truly momentous day for all of our guests
Travel Talk is your space – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel 16
NOVEMBER 6, 2010
Amal El Kady
Mahmoud Mokhtar
Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay has appointed Amal El Kady as director of sales and marketing. El Kady has more than 10 years of experience in the tourism industry; in her new role, she will lead the hotel’s team of sales, marketing and reservation staff. El Kady previously worked at a range of five star properties in Cairo, Sharm El Sheikh, Luxor and Alexandria.
Abdul Latif Jameel Real Estate Investment Company has appointed Mahmoud Mokhtar as chief operating officer for its new hotel division. Mokhtar will drive the company’s growth in Saudi Arabia; a number of hotel openings are planned for the next two years. He has 23 years of experience working with multinational hotel chains, including previous roles in the US, UAE and Egypt. Most recently, Mokhtar was vice president for Egypt, Lebanon and North Africa for Hilton Worldwide.
Burkhard Wolter Kempinski Ajman has appointed Burkhard Wolter as hotel manager. Wolter has more than 20 years of experience in the luxury hospitality sector and has spent more than five years working in the GCC. His most recent position was general manager of Namaskar, a boutique property in Marrakesh. He has previously worked with Four Seasons, Raffles, Shangri-La, Rotana, Hilton and several other major international brands. Wolter has a bachelor's degree in business administration and a range of further industry-specific qualifications.
Christian Grage
Ahmed El Hady
Hilton Worldwide has appointed Christian Grage as vice president of operations for Egypt and the Levant, based in Cairo. Grage will oversee Hilton’s 16 properties in the area, as well as focusing on the company’s development and growth strategy. Grage joins Hilton from Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts, where he was most recently acting senior vice president for Africa. He has 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He has worked in key roles across Egypt, Czech Republic, Saudi Arabia and China.
Dusit Thani International has appointed Ahmed El Hady as hotel manager of Dusit Thani Lakeview in Cairo, Egypt. El Hady has 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry. His most recent position was regional director of sales and marketing for Hyatt Hotels and Resorts in Egypt and Jordan. In his new role, El Hady will oversee the day-to-day operations of the hotel. Mahmoud Mokhtar
Alex Kassatly
Christian Grage 18
Alex Kassatly
Grand Millennium Dubai has appointed Alex Kassatly as general manager. Kassatly has more than 30 years of experience in hotel management and has worked throughout North America, Asia and the Middle East. After studying hospitality and management, Kassatly joined Fairmont Hotels and Resorts in 1976. He worked at various Fairmont and Raffles properties across North America and Egypt, before taking up a post as area general manager for Raffles in Cambodia. NOVEMBER 6, 2010
Q&A with Mohamed Shoier Mohamed Shoier is the executive assistant manager of sales and marketing at Ramada Downtown Dubai. As a halal, alcohol-free property with large suites on offer, Ramada Downtown Dubai is looking to corner the GCC family market and emulate the success of its popular neighbours. Shoier spoke to Travel Trade Weekly about operating challenges, investment strategies and traveller trends in the region. Travel Trade Weekly: Firstly, please tell us a little about your property. Mohamed Shoier: Ramada Downtown Dubai is located in Dubai’s prime district, Downtown Dubai, adjacent from the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, the world’s largest shopping destination, The Dubai Mall and with great views on Dubai Fountain. Offering a large, comfortable and well appointed suites-only product, it boasts one of the best views of Burj Khalifa up close and is fast becoming the most recognised name in Dubai’s hospitality sector. As an alcohol-free hotel with a number of innovative products, services and tailored packages, Ramada Downtown Dubai is an ideal destination for either a short break or an extended family holiday for all GCC families and discerning corporate and leisure travellers. The property is hoping to reproduce the success enjoyed by Ramada’s other properties, which have established a reputation as some of the most comfortable family destinations across the world.
Travel Trade Weekly: Are there any new developments within your company or region that are impacting the tourism industry? Mohamed Shoier: At the very outset we embarked on an unparalleled investment programme to develop the best infrastructure to sustain and even accelerate tourist arrivals to the property. The number of repeat guests is the result of our very strong growth-orientated policy that we have put in place. We have also been very fortunate that the management made prudent decisions in these times of economic turmoil that has NOVEMBER 6, 2010
Ramada Downtown Dubai, Imperial Suite
kept us focused on our core customers and related strategies. As a halal and alcohol-free property, it already is getting an enthusiastic response from not only GCC guests, but also individuals and families, due to our big sized suites and close proximity to Dubai shopping mall.
offering more added values to our guests with a variety of packages and promotions to meet our guests’ needs.
The city has already started witnessing an increase in arrivals, especially from the Chinese market
Travel Trade Weekly: Have you noticed any new trends in traveller behaviour or profile? Mohamed Shoier: For one, they book Travel Trade Weekly: How do you late and wish to spend less. deal with increasing competition? Secondly, regional tourists have started Mohamed Shoier: Our edge is bigger making journeys by car more and less by air carriers. They are travelling more with family members and visiting historical and cultural sites in Middle East. They also prefer to travel to places which are closer to home as high security concerns in Europe have discouraged them to visit Western countries.
Travel Trade Weekly: What are your biggest challenges and are there any strategies you can see to overcome them? Mohamed Shoier: The main challenge we are facing is the dropping rates in Dubai and we are overcoming it by
rooms compared to others in the same vicinity, plus a stunning view, unique location and reasonable rates - we do not think we have any competition.
Travel Trade Weekly: Any further comments? Mohamed Shoier: Our forecast is that demand from potential regional visitors will remain strong, keeping the tourism industry alive in Dubai. The city has already started witnessing an increase in arrivals, especially from the Chinese market, thus nullifying the negative impact of the recent economic meltdown on tourism. 19
Tourism and Hospitality Events Contribute to ADNEC’s Busiest Month Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) is expecting bumper traffic during November, with 14 trade and consumer events scheduled for this month. Christina Anthony, sales director of ADNEC, said November was the busiest month of the year for the exhibition centre, with thousands of visitors expected. In addition to long-running shows – including Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference, which was first held 26 years ago – November will see the debut of several new events for the tourism and hospitality industries.
World Green Tourism Abu Dhabi will be held from November 22 to 24, alongside SIAL and IPA Middle East – two shows focused on the food and food processing industries. “Combined with the many thousands visiting Abu Dhabi for the Etihad Airways F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, we are convinced ADNEC’s bustling events calendar in November will ensure the UAE capital remains at the centre of global attention throughout the coming weeks,” Anthony said. Other November events include Eid Al Adha Show, a shopping fair open to the general public; Abu Dhabi International Jewellery and Watch Show; International
Banking and Financial Services Technology Exhibition; and Building Future Education MENA. A range of private corporate events are also scheduled.
ADNEC
Events World Travel Market London, UK, November 8-11 (www.wtmlondon.com) Global event for the travel industry – four day business to business event promoting a range of destinations and industry sectors to international travel professionals. World Green Tourism Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, UAE, November 22-24 (www.worldgreentourism.ae) Inaugural eco-tourism exhibition, featuring tourism authorities, urban city planners, hotels and resorts, property developers, airlines, tour operators, green product suppliers, universities, museums and heritage site organisations. EIBTM Barcelona, Spain, November 30 – December 2 (www.eibtm.com) Global event for the meetings and events industry, including networking opportunities, professional education seminars and a trade show platform for exhibitors, hosted buyers and trade visitors.
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International Luxury Travel Market Cannes, France, December 6-9 (www.iltm.net) Annual business to business event for the global luxury travel industry. Showcases destinations and travel experiences, with a programme of networking events and pre-scheduled meetings. Moroccan Travel Market Marrakech, Morocco, January 12-15 (en.mtm.ma) Exhibition for international travel professionals. Blossom Japan Tokyo, Japan, January 18-21,2011 (www.blossomjapan.com) A new invitation-only luxury travel exhibition focusing on the Japanese market. Fitur International Tourism Trade Fair Madrid, Spain, January 19-23, 2011 (www.fitur.es) Fitur is a meeting point for tourism professionals to establish lines of action, strategies and business alliances.
NOVEMBER 6, 2010