Middle East and North Africa Edition
October 8, Issue 100
HONG KONG MAKES HISTORY Monthly visitor arrivals reached a historic high in Hong Kong after surpassing four million in August.
2 BEIRUT REVEALS LUXURY HOTEL Al Shegrey Group KAS Investment has revealed a new addition to Beirut’s luxury accommodation offering, with the soft opening of Le Dix.
6 In This Issue Market Update Weekly News Accommodation Air Travel News International Who’s Moved Travel Talk Agents’ Corner Travel Channels Rendezvous Events OCTOBER 8, 2011
2 4 6 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 ISSUE 100
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Hong Kong Makes History Monthly visitor arrivals reached a historic high in Hong Kong after surpassing four million in August, based on data released by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB).
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ith arrivals reaching 4,065,761 and year- Hong Kong on-year growth amounting to 17.7 percent, Hong Kong achieved a new record, gaining pace from the previous hit in July. James Tien, chairman, HKTB, commented on the impresive results. “We are encouraged by the tourism performance in August. Summer has always been a peak season for travel among shorthaul visitors. Following a historic high of 3.8 million arrivals in July, this is the second month in a row that arrivals set a new monthly record.” Driven by an impressive summer performance, visitor arrivals for the first eight months amounted to 27,236,330, up 16.2 percent over the corresponding period in 2010. “Overall, during the summer period from June to August, we welcomed a total of 10,940,371 arrivals, 18.8 percent more than in the corresponding period in 2010. Both Mainland China and Southeast Asia achieved outstanding performance, mainly because of the favourable economic climate and appreciation of currencies in these markets. In addition, the local travel trade also proactively launched timely promotions to make the best of the business opportunities arising from the peak travel season,” added Tien. Visitor arrivals from Europe, Africa and the Middle East (EMEA) in August totalled 172.862, representing an increase of 2.8 percent over the same month in 2010. Between January and August, Hong Kong received a total of 1,397,917 travellers from the EMEA region, up 1.3 percent over the comparable period in 2010. Mainland China,which generated 2.91 million arrivals in the first eight months, is expected to drive Hong Kong’s tourism industry.
MENA Exchange Rates Accurate as of 5/10/2011
ExecuJet Aviation Group’s Sales Increase
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= 3.67 5.96 3.75 1,503.00 0.37 0.71 49.70 0.28 3.64 0.38 1.44 8.40 10,641.05 213.25 74.12 1.24
ExecuJet Aviation Group has reported a growth in aircraft sales since the beginning of the year. Figures show that its deliveries involving new and preowned aircraft increased by almost 100 percent with a sales revenue of 90 percent. ExecuJet has aircraft sales operating in six regions, with wide-bodied and long range aircraft being the most requested category. Andrew Hoy, managing director, ExecuJet Aviation Group Trading, commented on the increase in delivery figures. “We have never been busier, margins are growing and the amount of aircraft we are working with is expanding.” The current price point for smaller jets, a rate that ExecuJet gradually increased owing to demand, has encouraged serious buyers to purchase these aircraft. “In spite of market uncertainty, businesses are still operating and need to move their executives around. The trend by scheduled airlines to reduce frequencies and routes has resulted in a growing need for business aviation options.” OCTOBER 8, 2011
Damac Unveils New Serviced Apartment Offering Independent developer, Damac Properties, has showcased its award-winning luxury development portfolio and introduced a new luxury apartment management service at Cityscape Global 2011.
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he developer’s stand at the exhibition, which was dedicated to emerging real estate markets, reflected its strategic focus on taking the luxury experience to a whole new level, noted Niall McLoughlin, senior vice president, Damac Properties. “Damac Properties is one of the most highly regarded developers in the region, with a proven track record of delivering high quality, luxury properties to the market. Through our partnership with Versace Home in Beirut and Jeddah, we have set a new benchmark for luxury residential development in the region.” Damac also used the event to introduce a new luxury apartment management serv-
Burjside Boulevard
ice, Damac Suites and Spa, which was established to cater to the growing demand for serviced premises. The new company will oversee Damac Properties’ first serviced apartment development, the 49storey Burjside Boulevard, located in the exclusive Dubai Downtown, opposite the Dubai Mall. “Damac Suites and Spa will provide a comprehensive list of services for residents, spanning from state of-the-art spa treatments, housekeeping, concierge services, chauffeur driven cars and private jet and yacht charter.” Damac Suites and Spa will be an independently run subsidiary of Damac, and will offer services such as housekeeping, personalised butler and chef services.
Millenium & Copthorne MENA to Encompass Africa Millenium & Copthorne Middle East and North Africa is to embark on a corporate restructure and penetrate the broader African market. The organisation, which owns and manages more than 120 hotels across 20 countries, has already indentified expansion opportunities for its extensive portfolio of brands in South Africa and other key markets across the continent. Ali Hamad Lakhraim Alzaabi, CEO, Millennium & Copthorne Middle East and Africa, elaborated on the expansion. “We see tremendous opportunity in Africa. There are many key markets underserved by quality hotels offering international standards and value in every class to guests, as well as solid returns to owners. There is also significant bilateral trade between the Middle East and many African countries.” The hotel group’s MENA division, which will incorporate all of Africa, strives to achieve fast growth on the continent with 40 signed agreements in the pipeline and a growing portfolio of brands for the market, which includes Grand Millennium, Millennium, Copthorne, Kingsgate and the recently launched exclusive destination brand Biltmore. 4
OCTOBER 8, 2011
- Accommodation
Beirut Reveals Luxury Hotel Al Shegrey Group KAS Investment has revealed a new addition to Beirut’s luxury accommodation offering, with the soft opening of Le Dix.
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he hotel boasts an ideal location in the heart of Lebanon’s capital city, near the historic Raouche Rock and just a sevenminute drive from the airport. With its deluxe interior design and personalised services, Le Dix represents one of the region’s most prestigious properties. Abdulkader . Hankir, chief operating officer, KAS Investment Hospitality Division, elaborated on the soft launch. “We invite presidents, ministers, ambassadors and businessmen from all over the world to visit Le Dix and have a look at one of the most luxurious hotels in the Arabic region.” Le Dix, which has been built at a cost of
more than USD25 million, houses four types of suites, including 10 high-end sea view suites, each spread out on a separate floor to ensure ultimate privacy.
where guests are escorted to the VIP lounge, to ensure a unique experience.
We invite presidents, ministers, ambassadors and businessmen from all over the world The master bedroom suites, each with fully equipped kitchens, state-of-the-art technology, furnished terraces and balconies overlooking the sea, offer a convenient stay that is suitable for discerning business and leisure travellers. Besides 24-hour butler service, Le Dix offers free limousine transport from the airport,
Le Dix
Mafraq Hotel Returns After Facelift The four-star Mafraq Hotel, originally opened in 1996, was purchased by The National Investor (TNI) in 2007 and is now set to be re-launched this November after a two-year re-build project. The USD50 million overhaul of the property has taken the 121-room hotel to 250 rooms. Rob Rowell, vice president of real estate, TNI, commented on the re-launch. “Being TNI’s first major foray into the hospitality sector we were tempted to lean on established brands to manage the operations. However, after careful consideration and the establishment of our own track record in operations, we decided to continue to leverage the Mafraq name to highlight the uniqueness of the property and strengthen its own independent brand.” The re-built property incorporates a 5,000m2 green courtyard around the pool, dividing the building into different wings. One of these, which is dedicated to meeting and banquet facilities, features a ballroom, two meeting rooms and an executive lounge. The hotel also boasts a fitness zone, a children’s swimming pool and playground, massage facilities, grooming salons, tennis, badminton and squash courts and five food and beverage outlets. 6
OCTOBER 8, 2011
- Air News
Etihad Boosts Riyadh Flights
Emirates Airlines
Etihad Airways is to substantially raise frequency to Riyadh from daily services to 13 flights a week from October 30.
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he additional services, to be operated by Airbus A320 and A330 aircraft, will provide both business and leisure travellers with more options and improved connection opportunities from Etihad’s Abu Dhabi hub to a range of destinations across the airline’s expanding network. The frequency increase also reinforces the great importance Etihad places on the route linking the two Arabian capitals, noted James Hogan, CEO. “Saudi Arabia is a key market for Etihad, and Riyadh has always been an important strategic destination for the airline. These changes allow us to strengthen our position within the GCC network. We are grateful to the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority and the Saudi Civil Aviation Authority for their support, which has enabled us to add the extra flights.” Etihad commenced services to Riyadh in December 2004, and also operates 13 flights per week to Jeddah and Dammam.
Emirates Boosts Mauritius Tourism with Extra Flights
Etihad Airways
Royal Jordanian Airlines Takes On Africa Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) plans to offer more flights between Jordan and Africa, boosting tourism in West and East Africa. The first service to Lagos, Nigeria is scheduled to commence at the end of November. Studies conducted by RJ proved that it is also feasible to launch flight routes to Accra, Ghana; Nairobi, Kenya and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. RJ aims to have these cities on its route map in the near future. Hussein Dabbas, CEO, RJ, commented 8
on the four additional flights to RJ’s existing 59 global destinations, emphasising that connecting Amman with these African cities is bound to attract large numbers of tourists to the Kingdom, particularly Muslim pilgrims who wish to continue their flights to Mecca and Medina, in Saudi Arabia, and Christians who visit Jordan to see the holy sites. The step will enhance Jordan’s position as a gateway to the Middle East and a base which connects this region to the rest of the world.
Emirates is to introduce two additional flights to its current nine between Dubai and Mauritius, in order to enhance the growing number of tourists visiting the island. Majid Al Mualla, senior vice president, commercial operations, Emirates, West Asia and Indian Ocean, commented on the additional flights. “Our decision to introduce these extra flights is the result of our longterm partnership with the island. We wish to thank the government of Mauritius for its trust in Emirates.” November 4 will be the launch date for Emirates’ 10th weekly service followed by its 11 weekly flight commencing on December 6. “Emirates will work hand in hand with the Ministry of Tourism and the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority to develop marketing campaigns to promote Mauritius across our strong global network,” added Al Mualla. With the additional flights, Emirates offers more travel options and better connectivity for the growing number of GCC based tourists visiting Mauritius. OCTOBER 8, 2011
- Air News
Lufthansa Launches Non-Stop Doha Flights Lufthansa German Airlines is to upgrade its Doha-Frankfurt service to a non-stop operation, dropping the existing stopover in Riyadh, effective from October 30.
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ith the introduction of the winter timetable, Lufthansa will offer six weekly non-stop flights between the Qatari capital and the German city. The elimination of the intermediate landing in Saudi Arabia shortens the journey time. Peter Pollak, general manager, UAE, and director, Gulf, Afghanistan and Iraq, Lufthansa, expressed his delight at the announcement. “Qatar is one of the most dynamic growth markets in the Gulf region and it has long been on our wish list to bring a non-stop Lufthansa service to the Doha-Frankfurt route. We are pleased to offer the superior
Lufthansa
Qatar is one of the most dynamic growth markets in the Gulf region travel comfort of a six weekly non-stop flight to our customers soon.”
flydubai Direct to Ukraine flydubai has launched the first Middle Eastern airline direct flights to three Ukrainian cities. Now offering flights to Kiev, Kharkiv and Donetsk, flydubai adds to its existing 44 flight destinations. The introduction of these flights to Ukraine will be an advantage for UAE football fans travelling to the country for the upcoming UEFA Euro 2012. Boris Kolesnikov, chairman, UEFA Euro 2012, commented on the routes. “Our infrastructure development for UEFA Euro 2012 is well underway and includes heavy investment in aviation to accommodate the increased traffic expected during the games and beyond. Attracting quality airlines is the key to our strategy and we are delighted to welcome flydubai today.” The new flight routes were celebrated at each city’s international airport where flydubai and Ukraine state officials were present. Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai, expressed his delight in the new direct services. “This is an historic week for flydubai and illustrates the scale of our ambition to expand into emerging markets, as well as our firm commitment to Ukraine.” ‘ OCTOBER 8, 2011
The service, which will be operated by an Airbus A330/A340 aircraft, enables increased options for onward connections to the airline’s expanding network, noted Randa El Massry, sales manager for Qatar. “We are delighted to see enhanced services for our customers. We trust the new service will be welcomed by business and leisure travellers alike, who will now have an even more efficient access to Lufthansa's Frankfurt gateway with flights to over 200 destinations, among them 21 non-stop services to the US.” To further boost traffic between the countries, Lufthansa has recently launched its ‘Doha Winter Special’ campaign, promoting flights from Doha to an array of destinations in Europe.
Qatar Airways Expands its Eastern European Flight Route Bulgaria has been introduced to Qatar’s flight route map adding to the airline’s Eastern European service portfolio, which already includes Bucharest and Budapest. The flights, which operate four times weekly between Doha and Sofia via Bucharest, will offer easy access to business travellers as well as holiday-makers. Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways, commented on the additional route. “Direct Qatar Airways flights from Sofia to Doha and beyond will give Bulgarian businesses and tourists the ideal gateway into key markets of eastbound destinations that we serve, offering convenient connections to numerous destinations, including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, India, Thailand, China and Australia.” Sofia was Qatar Airways’ fifth European route to commence this year. The airline has since further expanded its European route by launching flights to Oslo, Norway. “It has been a conscious decision to open up routes in central Eastern Europe, with the latest addition of Bulgaria demonstrating our commitment to the region which we strongly believe has great potential and will remain an important part of Qatar Airways’ growth strategy going forward,” added Al Baker. 9
- International
Singapore’s Resorts World Sentosa Presents a Unique Adventure through Asian Maritime Singapore is to house the Maritime Experiential Museum and Aquarium (MEMA) at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS), a development recounting the history behind the growth of sea trade between Asia and the Middle East.
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et to open on October 15, MEMA will provide a first of its kind experience, showcasing Asian maritime history. MEMA, which will be held in an iconic steel and glass ship hull at the RWS waterfront, will harbour over 400 rare objects, with it’s highlight being the Jewel of Muscat, a replica of a ninth century Arab dhow that was a gift from the Sultanate of Oman to the government and people of the Republic of Singapore. As Singapore’s tourism grows, MEMA will serve as an impressive attraction for Gulf
visitors. Jason Ong, area director, Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board, commented on Singapore’s new asset. “Singapore’s tourism offering is constantly evolving and maturing to appeal to an increasingly global audience, to include discerning Middle East-based visitors looking for cultural enrichment in addition to entertainment. We believe Gulf travellers, in particular, will get a real thrill from visiting MEMA because of its focus on the historic role that the Middle East played in the early global trade.” RWS have set out to continue this attrac-
tion with the development of two more hotels, a marine life park and a destination spa. “MEMA together with RWS’ upcoming attractions such as Universal Studio Singapore’s Transformers the Ride and other quality developments like Gardens by the Bay and the world’s first River Safari, will add vibrancy to the city’s evolving tourism landscape. Visitors can look forward to a richer and more differentiated experience in Singapore, thereby enhancing our value proposition as a destination choice”, concluded Ong.
Istanbul to Be Home to First Wyndham Hotel in Turkey Wyndham Hotel Group has signed an agreement to debut in Turkey, with the opening of Wyndham Petek Istanbul. Due to open in 2012, the 21-storey, 306-room hotel will be conveniently located only 7km from Atatürk International Airport, Istanbul. The five-star hotel will include a choice of 24 suites and 40 extended-stay apartments as well as a spa, a fitness centre, and indoor pool and four treatment rooms. 13 meeting rooms will also be offered for conferences and events. Guest will benefit from the hotel’s complimentary transfers to and from the airport. Eric Danziger, president, Wyndham Hotel Group, commented on the agreement. “Istanbul is a rapidly developing, vibrant city that serves as home to a growing number of companies as well as a rising number of international travellers. The addition of this first Wyndham hotel in Turkey will not only help solidify our presence in this important market, but will also serve as a shining example of the high quality and personalised service associated with the Wyndham name around the world.” 10
OCTOBER 8, 2011
Richard Scoble
Panos Panagis
Richard Scoble has been named general manager of JW Marriott Dubai. Scoble, a 35-year industry veteran, brings solid expertise and extensive experience in managing diverse hotel operations to the flagship property. As general manager, he has been tasked with overseeing the landmark Richard Scoble hotel’s operations and management. He will also be instrumental in leading staff in maintaining high service standards, and bringing the overall hotel experience to the highest level possible. Scoble has gained vast managerial experience in the UK with Trusthouse Forte, Moat House Hotels and Swallow Hotels. He then joined Whitbread before moving on to Marriott.
Panos Panagis has been appointed general manager of The Diplomat Radisson Blu Residence and Spa, Bahrain. Panagis has over 20 years of experience in a number of management positions, which include locations in Switzerland, the UK, Germany and Africa. He began his career in the early 1990s, with various internships, before moving to hotels in central London and later joining Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts. Prior to taking on his first Middle East assignment, he worked as general manager of Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos, Nigeria. Panos Panagis
Peter French Peter French has been appointed by Raffles Hotels & Resorts as regional vice president, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). French, who also holds the general manager position at Raffles Dubai, will oversee the operation of Le Royal Monceau-Raffles Paris and Raffles Praslin Seychelles as well as the new Raffles hotels under development in EMEA. He carries a wealth of international luxury experience and in-depth background in operations, sales and marketing, human resources and finance, re-development, repositioning and transition. His previous roles include general manager and vice president of operations and development for Mandarin Oriental Hotels Group, general manager of Madarin Oriental Hong Kong and similar positions in a range of other prestigious hotels, including The Sukothai in Bangkok, The Carlyle in New York and Grosvenor House Hotel in London. Peter French OCTOBER 8, 2011
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Kapil Aggarwal Director of sales and marketing, Hyatt International, Southwest Asia. “Travellers in the region are incredibly fashion and bargain savvy, and one of the best times for those seeking sales is the Christmas period. Some of the world’s most beautiful and bustling cities provide some of the best shopping experiences, offering visitors a combination of culture Kapil Aggarwal and heritage, as well as the chance to pick up some great luxury items. Although many shoppers look abroad, the UAE in itself is a wonderful shopping destination, with all the world’s most famous and sought-after brands and boutiques located within its many huge malls.”
Although many shoppers look abroad, the UAE in itself is a wonderful shopping destination
Karim Makhlouf Chief commercial officer, Gulf Air. “The launch of services to Rome, our second destination in Italy, will mark an important milestone for Gulf Air. Italy will become the first European country to boast of Gulf Air’s services to two of its most prominent cities, namely Milan and now Rome, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to European expansion. This new service will offer passengers in the northern and southern central region of Italy access to the largest network of flights in the Middle East as well as the region’s most efficient Karim Makhlouf hub.”
This new service will offer passengers in the northern and southern central region of Italy access to the largest network of flights in the Middle East
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
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Agent’s Insight Name: Cybelle Moutran Kurban Position: Managing director Company: Escape Travel Consultant Location: Lebanon Who are you? I have always been fond of travel and always aimed to make a career out of it. I developed a great interest in luxury travel and realised that there is a niche in Lebanon for it. This is how the idea of a boutique travel agency came along in 2008 and Escape was born. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? I am in the office but never stop travelling and dreaming. It is a thrill to discover new destinations, new addresses and insiders’ tips. I like the fact that it's an ever evolving market with trends and novelties. Every client is a new challenge; I have to understand their interests and style and match it with impeccable service.
Sabre to Launch First B2B App Centre Sabre Travel network, the global travel technology company, is poised to open the world’s first business to business (B2B) application centre dedicated to the travel industry. The Sabre Red App Centre will represent the first of its kind to connect travel buyers, including travel agencies, travel management companies and leisure operators, with third party developers. Greg Webb, president, Sabre Travel Network, elaborated on the latest innovative solution in Sabre’s repertoire. “The Sabre Red App Centre will open up a new world of possibilities for the travel industry and bring endless opportunities for creative and original applications to be brought to the market quickly. Our agency customers will be able to improve their business and deliver enhanced services for travellers by tapping into the collective creativity of Red App developers from all over the world.” The Red App Centre, accessorised with Sabre-certified Red Apps, will be connected to the Sabre Red Workspace to empower travel buyers to easily shop for a wide range of applications and deploy those down to the individual user. Upon launch, developers will be able to connect with more than 155,000 Sabre Red Workspace users in more than 116 countries.
When is the best time to visit Lebanon? We are blessed with four seasons, each offering a wide array of activities so it all depends on one's interests. In the summer you can enjoy beautiful beaches and in the winter, you can ski, snowboard and ski-doo in any of our stations offering world-class facilities. Fall and spring seasons are very pleasant because of the mild weather and the beauty of the natural landscape. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? Latin America has a serious spell on me. Everything attracts me from its nature, its culture, its music to its people's joie de vivre. Peru is next on my list with a special eagerness to discover Machu Picchu and beyond. Other places like Cuba and Vietnam sound very appealing to me too. Why should people come to you for travel advice? We promote luxury travel, the essence of which is doing things to your own taste, at your own pace. We create tailor-made trips that are defined by your very own interests. OCTOBER 8, 2011
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IATA: Promising Present, Gloomy Future The International Air Transport Association (IATA) upgraded its industry profit expectations, but warns about an even tougher environment.
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he Association’s new industry profit expectation totals USD6.9 billion, up from USD4 billion projected in June. IATA, however, emphasised that despite the improvements, profitability at these levels is still weak considering the aviation industry’s total revenues of USD594 billion. In spite of the developments, the industry is better to prepare for an even more challenging period, noted Tony Tyler, CEO, IATA. “Airlines are going to make a little more money in 2011 than we thought. That is good news. Given the strong headwinds of high oil prices and economic uncertainty, remaining in the black is a great achievement. But we should keep the improvement in perspective. The USD2.9 billion bottom line improvement is equal to about a half a percent of revenue,. and the margin is a mere 1.2 percent. Airlines are competing in a very tough environment and 2012 will be even more difficult.” In its first look at 2012, IATA is predicting profits to decline to USD4.9 billion on revenues of USD632 billion for a net margin of 0.8 percent. The forecast is built around global projected GDP growth of 2.5 percent this year dropping to 2.4 percent in 2012. IATA’s forecast highlights for this year shows that passenger demand has been stronger than anticipated. As of July, passenger volume increased over six percent on previous levels. The report highlights that Middle East carriers are the second largest beneficiary of the growth in passenger demand (after Europe). IATA now expects the region’s airlines to record USD800 million, up from only USD100 million projected in June. Despite the political upheaval, passenger traffic grew by 8.3 percent compared with a capacity increase of nine percent in the first seven months of the year.
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Qatar Tourism Authority Hosts MICE Experts For the first time ever, Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) hosted a delegation of 40 influential MICE experts in Doha. The programme, which commenced on September 29th, included presentations from experts on Qatar tourism and the hospitality sector. Qatar was showcased through a programme of activities which have been developed by QTA in collaboration with FVW, Germany’s leading tourism industry publication. All of Qatar’s attractions and luxury hotels as well as the New Doha International Airport (NDIA) were highlighted. Ahmed Al Nuami, chairman, QTA, commented on the hosting of the delegation. “This is our first workshop and visit of this kind and we are greatly heartened by the response from these hospitality professionals. Germany and indeed Europe is an important market for Qatar. We have excellent ties between the two countries and a steady flow of visitors each way.” The event included a one day workshop, presentations on NDIA and discussions on improving MICE business from the key market of Germany. Sales advice and tips were given by German experts. The presentations tapped into details about Qatar’s future tourism developments including new hotels and other infrastructure. “The announcement of our winning the right to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup put us on the map and we have seen a remarkable amount of interest in what we can offer visitors and business travellers,” elaborated Al Nuami. OCTOBER 8, 2011
Q & A with Christophe Landais In the continually transforming hospitality market, companies are required to adapt their strategies accordingly and even introduce new concepts. Christophe Landais, managing director, Middle East, Accor, tells Travel Trade Weekly about the hotel operator’s rebranding decision as well as upcoming plans in the region. Travel Trade Weekly: For what reason did Accor decide to rebrand all seasons and Etap Hotel under the ibis mega-brand? Christophe Landais: It was perceived that the economy segment in Accor, which has got three brands, is a large contributor to the result. If you take each brand individually, you have ibis, which provides about 920 rooms, in 20 hotels; Etap, which has about 350 and all seasons, which has about 130. How it has been perceived is that each brand, individually, will benefit from synergy, to create a bigger network base. ibis is one of the leading economy brands in terms of awareness and in terms of style. We had all seasons, which was quite similar to ibis but a non-standardised product and was designed to capture existing hotels which are perhaps family owned, with a small amount of rooms, and adopt these on a franchise basis. So, bringing all seasons under the ibis hat, under ibis styles, will certainly allow Accor to speed up development on a franchise basis.
Travel Trade Weekly: Will Accor also rebrand hotels in other segments, putting them under one key-stone brand? Christophe Landais: We don’t know yet. Some projects will be launched for each brand. Sofitel was repositioned on the luxury segment in 2007, and that will carry on as the international brand in that segment. With the repositioning of Sofitel there arose a gap between midscale and luxury. This is where Pullman came. At the moment there are about 50 hotels OCTOBER 8, 2011
worldwide and the group will further develop it. We also have Mercure, which is one of the largest networks of midscale hotels in the world. We think the project will be to further develop Mercure to be completely adaptive to culture and the environment. And then you have Novotel, which should remain the leading brand in the midscale segment, becoming more innovative and more creative
Christophe Landais
Travel Trade Weekly: Do you think that for Dubai, midscale and upscale commitment that the entire network will brands are more suitable? Do you undergo Earth Check procedures in the think Pullman will grow throughout next two years. At the moment, what we are the Middle East or mostly in Dubai? focusing on economy and midscale brands. Christophe Landais: I think Pullman is growing throughout the Middle East. We have one opening in Dubai in 2012, one opening in Doha and also existing projects in Riyadh and Jeddah. But it is a different market; the upscale hotels are targeting the international traveller and the economy brands are targeting more the domestic market. We plan to have, within the next five to six years, at least between 10 to 16 Pullman hotels, but certainly we have a new opportunity now with the ibis style, to further develop the economy lodging .
Travel Trade Weekly: The economy segment appears to be growing in the Middle East. Do you think this will also spread to Mecca, adding to Accor’s strong Sofitel presence there? Christophe Landais: I think it can. The land is very, very expensive, so I guess, yes, in certain areas of Mecca we can develop ibis. It might not be in the first circle, but further away where you have some unbranded hotels.
Travel Trade Weekly: Are midscale and upscale brands also involved in the Earth Check certification programme? Christophe Landais: It is a 15
Dubai Reveals Luxury Pet Resort Urban Tails Pet Resort, the world’s first seven-star property for four-legged guests has opened its doors in Dubai. The pet resort, located in Dubai Investment Park, boasts luxury suites, landscaped gardens and a wide range of amenities, custom built for dogs and cats, elaborated Elspeth Moore, manager of the resort. “Dogs have a raw deal in Dubai with little opportunity to socialise or play with other dogs. Urban Tails Pet Resort is fully air conditioned with all suites and play areas offering a specially designed layout to reduce noise level and minimise stress. With hygiene being of utmost importance, we can guarantee that all our facilities and individual suites are cleaned on an ongoing basis. To level up guest satisfaction, Urban Tails offers an array of amenities and services, including grooming and training, indoor and outdoor gym, swimming pool, doggie boot camp, pet boutique and pet limo. In the suites, plasma TV screens and relaxation music ensure the ultimate indulgence.
Abu Dhabi International Airport: 14 Percent Rise Abu Dhabi International Airport’s passenger volume continued to climb in August, according to data released by Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC). In August, a total of 1.09 million travellers passed through the airport’s terminals, representing an increase of 14 percent over the corresponding month in 2010. James Bennett, CEO, ADAC, commented on the performcance. “The continuous increase of Abu Dhabi International Airport’s passenger traffic goes in parallel with the growth that the emirate is witnessing in trade, industry and tourism. Up to August, we have welcomed 8,000,000 passengers through our airport, providing efficient and high-quality services.” The top five routes from the airport during the month of August included London, Jeddah, Doha, Bangkok and Manila.
Events CIS Travel Market St. Petersburg, Russia, October 12-14, 2011 (www.restec.ru) An event focusing on CIS countries, attended by airlines, tour operators, travel agencies, accommodation providers and tourist associations. ITB Asia Singapore, October 19-21, 2011 (www.itb-asia.com) An event where international exhibitors, Asia Pacific’s leading companies and emerging enterprises meet top buyers.
Dubai Airshow Dubai, UAE, November 13-17, 2011 (www.dubaiairshow.aero) The foremost aerospace event in the Middle East, which consistently delivers key buyers and decision makers. International Golf Travel Market Antalya, Turkey, November 14-17, 2011 (www.igtm.co.uk) The premier event for the golf travel industry with pre-scheduled appointments, networking opportunities and industry updates.
Philoxenia World Travel Market Thessaloniki, Greece, November 18-21, 2011 London, UK, November 7-10, 2011 (www.philoxenia.travel) (www.wtmlondon.com) The expo, now in its 27th year, aims at promoting tourism in Leading global event for the travel industry, presenting a Southeastern Europe and the Mediterranean. It acts as an diverse range of destination and industry sectors, providing international meeting point for professionals activated in an opportunity to meet, network, negotiate and conduct different sectors of the tourism industry. business.
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