24 MARCH 2012
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ISSUE 124
24 MARCH 2012
ISSUE 124
Rixos to Expand in Ras Al Khaimah Rixos Hotels has signed an agreement with Ras Al Khaimah Hospitality Group to open Rixos Bab Al Bahr.
Qatar Airways continues to expand its destination network by adding five new routes and increasing passenger as well as cargo capacity.
11 Jet Airways Serves Dammam Jet Airways now provides a direct connection between Dammam and Delhi, further strengthening Indo-Gulf ties.
13 IN THIS ISSUE RENDEZVOUS MARKET UPDATE WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION AIR NEWS WHO'S MOVED TRAVEL TALK AGENT'S CORNER TRAVEL CHANNELS RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS
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Qatar Airways: Five New Routes, Further Expansion
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RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with Lothar Quarz With numerous hotels in the pipeline, hoteliers across the UAE are placing every effort to make their property distinguishable within a marketplace which is already highly crowded. Lothar Quarz, general manager, The RitzCarlton, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), shares his views on the stiffening competition.
Travel Trade Weekly: Having opened in January 2011, The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, has already earned a reputation as one of Dubai’s most elegant addresses. How did the hotel perform in its first year? Lothar Quarz: We have had a very successful first year of operation, particularly in the fourth quarter, which was extremely strong. Our source markets are mainly the GCC, Europe, and the US, with Asia Pacific continuing to grow for us as well. Travel Trade Weekly: The hotel opened its doors during one of the most challenging years throughout the region. Did the ongoing unrest in parts of the region or the lingering impact of the financial crisis affect your business?
For me each day in the hospitality industry is about creating ‛The Ritz-Carlton experiences’ Lothar Quarz General manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
Lothar Quarz: While parts of the region were certainly affected, overall markets, such as Dubai, fared well. We feel that our opening at the beginning of 2011 was timely and we saw many successes in our first year. Travel Trade Weekly: Set in the vibrant and burgeoning DIFC, the property offers an ideal base for both business and leisure travellers. How do you position the hotel and which segment do you target? Lothar Quarz: Being the only hotel located in DIFC and literally attached to the financial centre, The Ritz-Carlton is perfectly situated and highly convenient for the business traveller. Our guests are sophisticated travellers so our proximity to the Dubai International Airport, Dubai Mall, and the city’s best enter-
tainment, makes us the perfect location for stopovers or leisure travellers alike. Travel Trade Weekly: With a number of hotels in the development pipeline, hoteliers are expected to face stiff competition in Dubai. How do you intend to sustain high occupancy levels?
Lothar Quarz: Travellers already have many accommodation options when staying in Dubai. The emphasis of The Ritz-Carlton is always on value and service for our guests; to understand our guests. They tell us what they want and need, and then we exceed it. Travel Trade Weekly: Having spent nearly three decades in the luxury hotel industry, you have brought extensive knowledge to the hotel. Based on your vast experience, how does the industry in the Middle East, and in Dubai in particular, differ from your previous locations, Wolfsburg or Berlin? Lothar Quarz: Regardless of the location, for me each day in the hospitality industry is about creating ’The Ritz-Carlton experiences’ that are truly memorable. What makes Dubai so vibrant though is the world class international flare and the diverse range of cultures.
The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre is perfectly situated and highly convenient for the business traveller
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WEEKLY NEWS
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel JOURNALISTS Stefanie Saghbini Rita Kasziba Dominique Christou Melanthia Avgousti
Eurostar: Strong Growth Eurostar, the high speed rail service between the UK and mainland Europe, reported strong progress over 2011 with remarkable growth in both passenger numbers and overall sales revenues.
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SALES & MARKETING Maria Demetriadou Brighite Ess DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia, 1308, Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 210466 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of
22/03/2012 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar
COUNTRY
CURRENCY
1USD=
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
6.04
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,505.50
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
57.45
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.28
Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.38
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.51
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.42
Iran (IRR)
Riyal
12,278.00
Yemen (YER)
Rial
215.61
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
74.52
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.26
he company’s total sales revenue increased six percent to GBP803 million (USD1.3 billion), with a particularly strong rise in the second half of the year, while, on a like-forlike basis, sales revenues grew by 10 percent throughout the year. Nicolas Petrovic, CEO, Eurostar, attributed these successful results to the rail service’s upgraded services and products. Moreover, total passenger numbers for 2011 rose two percent to 9.7 million, and international passengers originating outside the European Union, including those from the BRIC markets, now account for a significant nine percent of all of Eurostar’s passengers. The company’s most significant non-European source markets by size include the US, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.
Eurostar
Overall, the volume of leisure travellers showed an increase of two percent, while the number of business passengers was down three percent compared with 2010.
Royal Jordanian Airlines: Passenger Record for January Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) recorded 268,000 passengers in January, as opposed to the same month in 2011, which witnessed some 213,000 passengers, formulating an overall 25 percent increase. Never having reached such high figures during the month of January, since its establishment, this is a new record for the airline, which currently covers 60 Arab and international destinations. According to Hussein Dabbas, president, RJ, despite January being one of the weakest months of the year, the seat factor reached 72 percent, resulting in an increase of 11 percent over the same period in 2011, adding that the flying hours during the same month rose by five percent and the departures by three percent, while the cargo uplifted, on cargo and passenger flights, grew 24 percent. Dabbas expressed satisfaction with this success, which, according to him, reflects the ability of the company and its employees to work as one team, to overcome the difficulties experienced by the aviation industry worldwide.
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WEEKLY NEWS Bahrain to Host World Maritime Event
Advancing Snow and Mountain Tourism Technology
The General Organisation of Sea Ports (GOP) has announced that Bahrain has been chosen to host the World Maritime Day Parallel Event 2012, by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), which takes place from October 17-18. The event is parallel to the World Maritime Day, celebrated annually in London during the last week of September. Both events are used to focus attention on the importance of shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment, and to emphasise a particular aspect of IMO's work. The theme of this year’s parallel event will be ‘IMO: One hundred years after the Titanic’, and there will be numerous maritimethemed activities for the attendees. “This event will provide us with another opportunity to help raise awareness of the maritime industry and the steps we have taken to meet and comply with international maritime best practices, and will further highlight Bahrain as a leader and key player in the global maritime arena,” Hassan Ali Al Majed, director general, GOP, expressed.
QTA Showcases Qatar at ITB Berlin The Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) recently attended what is being hailed as Europe’s largest travel trade show, International Tourism Bourse (ITB) Berlin, along with 25 of Qatar’s top hotels and tourism operators. At the opening day, the German-Arab Tourism Forum showcased the Arabian states and their importance to the German market, while Abdulla Malalla Al-Bader, director of tourism, QTA, who was invited as a speaker, indicated the quick development of Qatar into an internationally recognised destination, which was widely showcased throughout the event. “Qatar has become one of the emerging destinations in world travel and tourism thanks to Qatar Airways’ growth, as well as our strategy to highlight the range of activities on offer in Qatar. Qatar has everything a high-end and business traveller needs. It is important for QTA and our delegation to participate in events like ITB Berlin, as it not only allows us to showcase Qatar as a destination, but we can also discover new trends in the industry,” commented Ahmed Al Nuaimi, chairman, QTA.
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The role of new technologies in snow and mountain tourism will be the focus of the 7th World Congress on Snow and Mountain Tourism, held by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in collaboration with the Principality of Andorra, from April 11-12. Leading experts will discuss the new technologies that have emerged over the past years and their role in revolutionising tourism marketing, as well as consumer behavior before, during, and after a trip. Under the title 'Mountain Tourism 2.0: New Strategies for Success', the congress will outline the strategies needed to attract new visitors and open up mountain destinations to the world market. Mountain resort professionals from 10 countries will share their experiences on integrating new technologies in their marketing strategies to attract and maintain visitors.
Dubai Tops Hospitality Lists Dubai has been placed first globally for hotel occupancy and revenue per available room (RevPAR) for the month of January, based on data released by the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) at ITB Berlin. With an average occupancy level of 86.2 percent, the emirate’s establishments topped the list of 15 top performance destinations. The distinction also marks a robust increase of over 75.4 percent recorded in the corresponding month in 2011, and an exceptional improvement over the last couple of years. Meanwhile, the emirate also topped the list in the RevPAR category at USD232.7, up from the fifth position in 2011, while in terms of average room rate, Dubai stood second after Paris at USD269.9.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Oman Eyes Ambitious Prospects Oman’s focus on tourism and cultural heritage is significantly boosting its status as a regional and global leisure hub, and the country is gearing up to showcase its latest tourism offerings at this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM).
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aving debuted the Royal Opera House Muscat in October 2011, the Sultanate is now pushing ahead with projects including a USD1 billion tourist resort in Salalah and a USD1 billion Oman Conference and Exhibition Centre in Muscat, which is due to open late 2015. “Oman received some 1.6 million tourists in 2010 and Oman’s Ministry of Tourism aims to increase this figure to an ambitious 12 million per annum by 2020. Such aspirations clearly show the country’s goal to develop as a major tourist and business destination,” commented Mark Walsh, group exhibition director, Reed Travel Exhibitions. Consistent with Oman’s optimistic forecast for tourism and its bold infrastructure strategy, online visitor registrations for ATM from the Sultanate, which will include key exhibitors from the country’s Ministry of Tourism and Oman Air, have risen 131 percent while the number of visitors interested in buying products and services from the Sultanate is up 109 percent. Muscat’s cruise ship passenger arrivals sailed past 230,000 in 2010/2011 from just 44,000 in 2007. The Ministry of Tourism expects this number to exceed 300,000 by 2015. Meanwhile, 2010 saw a record 2.08 million passengers arriving at Muscat International Airport, according to the International Air Transport Association. Overall, the line-up for this year’s ATM will bring together annual favourites and a number of brand new events including the inaugural World Tourism Organization’s regional tourism ministers’ conference and the WTM Vision forum, which will focus on Middle East travel trends and the online travel market. The all-new Tech theatre will also offer participants and visitors a dedicated platform, providing them the opportunity to gain invaluable insight into leading edge industry-related technologies including social media and global distribution systems. 24 MARCH 2012
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WEEKLY NEWS
Abu Dhabi Air Expo Fetches USD272 Million Deals Abu Dhabi Air Expo, which took place on March 6 – 8, generated a total value of AED1 billion (USD272 million) in signed deals, according to Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC). The three-day event at Al Bateen Executive Airport welcomed a total of 10,700 visitors along with 105 exhibitors from local, regional, and international companies. Apart from ADAC’s Abu Dhabi Air Expo agreements with Falcon Aviation Services and R Offices, the show also inaugurated the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association UAE. Other highlights of the event included Qatar Airways’ appointment of the newest Bombardier Service Facility in the Middle East, and Abu Dhabi Aviation’s agreement for an aviation simulation and an aircraft maintenance centre.
During the event, the TBM 850 aircraft was also showcased as well as an air ambulance by the emirate’s Ministry of Interior. According to Yousif Hassan Al Hammadi, chairman, organising committee, Abu Dhabi Air Expo, the expo assisted in creating an opportunity to raise awareness among the general public on the opportunities in the industry. “ADAC is proud of the remarkable success of Abu Dhabi Air Expo. The number of visitors welcomed at the show combined with the generated value of signed agreements is a clear indication of Abu Dhabi’s strong position as a key aviation hub for the region,” he said. “Within the corporate aviation market, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish the exact number of aircraft that are sold, as buyers are very often anonymous. However, ADAC estimates that more than one billion dirham worth of business deals were officially signed during the days of the exhibition,” Al Hamadi concluded.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Launch of New B2B Product Air Charter International, the Dubai-based aircraft charter and leasing company, has announced the launch of SkySearch Universal Portal, a new business-to-business (B2B) product.
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he innovative software offers indicative air charter quotes based on the latest market rates for executive jet services and passenger aircraft worldwide. The white-labelled product, which can be integrated into the customers’ website, enables third party companies to win new business and generate income by selling charter flights through their own dedicated websites. This application is set to support requirements from travel agents, tour operators, hotel chains, concierge services, and high end travel providers. Air Charter International can
also assist partners with leads and enquiries, resulting from the service, by confirming aircraft availability and price, or, alternatively, subscribers may source the aircraft independently. Stuart Wheeler, CEO, Air Charter International, commented, “SkySearch Universal Portal covers a much wider scope than any other aircraft charter booking service on offer in that the service works for both executive jet and passenger aircraft enquiries. In addition, charter operators do not have to pay a fee to be listed on the database resulting in more available aircraft in the SkySearch pool. We really believe that this will revolutionize the B2B market of air chartering.”
Etihad SuperSeller for Travel Agents Etihad Airways has released its travel agent incentive programme, Etihad Superseller, enabling agents to earn Etihad Guest Miles with every Diamond First and Pearl Business class ticket sold. Travel agents from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UK, France, US, and Australia can participate in the programme, redeeming their collected miles at the Etihad Guest online Rewards Shop. Peter Baumgartner, chief commercial officer, Etihad Airways, expressed, “We are thrilled to launch an innovative way to reward the support we receive from the travel trade community and to offer our valued travel agent partners the opportunity to reap the benefits of our award-winning Etihad Guest loyalty programme. Agents will be able to redeem miles against a wide selection of more than 2,900 flight and non-flight rewards from over 200 partners.”
Etihad Airways
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SkySearch Universal Portal covers a much wider scope than any other aircraft charter booking service on offer
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WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
Two IHG Openings in Riyadh InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Rayadah Investment Company have signed an agreement to open two new hotels in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). Hotel Indigo Riyadh KAFD will be the first hotel in the Middle East under IHG's upscale boutique brand, and will comprise 225 rooms, two restaurants, a business centre, three meeting rooms, and a fitness facility with a swimming pool, just to name a few. Moreover, InterContinental Riyadh KAFD will provide 218 rooms including 57 suites, alongside seven food and beverage outlets, four meeting rooms, two board rooms, a ballroom, a fitness centre with lap pool, and more. Jan Smits, CEO, Asia, Middle East and Africa, IHG, commented on the venture, “With this signing we will expand our well-established InterContinental brand and introduce Hotel Indigo to the Middle East market. This is the first of a number of signings we anticipate for Hotel Indigo in the region.”
An Extensive Renovation in Petra Petra Marriott Hotel, Jordan has announced the completion of the first phase of its extensive USD2 million full-property renovation that promises to deliver totally refurbished contemporary bedrooms and bathrooms. The hotel began renovations in the autumn of 2011 and has endeavoured to minimally impact the guest, with plans to return to full operational capability in the shortest time frame. Upon completion of the second phase, set to begin mid-year, interior space including the lobby, bar, lounge, and restaurants, will be fully renovated. “We are delighted to unveil Petra Marriott Hotel’s stylish new look and many improvements throughout the hotel. This renovation provides today’s performance-driven traveller with the most up-to-date and desirable ambiance and amenities,” commented Nihad Kattan, country general manager, Marriott Hotels, Jordan. Marriott International currently manages three properties in Jordan, with a fourth property in Aqaba now under construction.
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Accommodation
Accor Hosts its 10th Annual Middle East Roadshow Accor recently hosted yet another successful roadshow in the Middle East, which saw representatives from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East residing at its properties in Jeddah, Riyadh, Doha, and Kuwait. More than 600 travel agents, tour operators, and experts visited the annual roadshow, which took place in February, and according to Christophe Landais, managing director, Accor Middle East, is a significant event to the hotel group. “We have a strong development plan with the opening of nine new hotels representing 2,630 rooms this year in the region. The annual Accor Middle East Roadshow is an important initiative for us at Accor as it enables us to meet, interact, and exchange ideas with our valued partners and travel companies across the region. This undertaking helps strengthen our relationships with our key partners.” Furthermore, Accor Middle East will be awarding its top key clients in each visited destination, for their performance in 2011.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Rixos to Expand in Ras Al Khaimah Rixos Hotels has signed an agreement with Ras Al Khaimah Hospitality Group to open Rixos Bab Al Bahr, hailed as the first ‘all inclusive’ property of this magnitude in the UAE. Scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of the year, the new property will boast 627 rooms and suites as well as 14 food and beverage outlets, an amphitheatre, and a spa. Both Fettah Tamince, chairman, Rixos Hotels, and Victor Louis, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Hospitality Group, expressed great enthusiasm for the property, which, according to Louis, is set to take an even closer step to achieving the emirate’s the strategic target of welcoming 1.2 million visitors by 2013, as well as boasting 10,000 hotel rooms by 2016. "We are very delighted to announce the launch of Rixos Bab Al Bahr in conjunction with the Ras Al Khaimah Hospitality Group, the hospitality arm of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah,” Tamince concluded.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Air News
Qatar Airways: Five New Routes, Further Expansion Qatar Airways continues to expand its destination network by adding five new routes and increasing passenger, as well as cargo, capacity on a number of its services.
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tarting in May, the airline will launch new passenger services from its Doha hub to Iraq, Tanzania, Serbia, and Myanmar. The Iraqi cities of Baghdad and Erbil will join the carrier’s route map in May and June respectively, while flights to Kilimanjaro, the airline’s second destination in Tanzania, will also be introduced. The newest addition to Qatar Airways’ European portfolio, Belgrade, will welcome the first passengers in September, and, after a four-year absence, the carrier will also return to Myanmar, serving the capital city Yangon as of October. These latest destinations join Qatar Airways’ previously announced new routes to
Zagreb, set to commence on May 9, Perth, to begin as of July 3, Mombassa, to start on August 15, as well as Zanzibar, Helsinki, and Gassim. Moreover, the Kuala Lumpur route will be expanded to 17 services each week, while the Jakarta flight will offer a capacity of 10 frequencies a week. Services to Algiers will increase to 11 a week, Cairo to 12 a week, Kuwait to 55 flights each week, and Muscat to 31 weekly services, while Abu Dhabi will appear in the schedule 42 times a week. In Europe, the airline is set to soon introduce a fifth daily flight to London Heathrow, while Milan will receive 11 flights each week.
Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways
Etihad Airways Increases Cairo Flights Etihad Airways is to substantially boost flights to Egypt with four additional services to Cairo, up to 18 frequencies a week, as of June. The extra Airbus A320 services are also set to significantly improve connectivity over the airline’s Abu Dhabi hub to key destinations in Southeast Asia and Australia. James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, commented on the growth, “Despite the Arab Spring’s impact, this route has continued to perform strongly and over the past eight years our services to Cairo have exceeded our expectations. We are pleased to be able to build on this success with these additional flights. Cairo is a special destination for us due to the established cultural and commercial ties between Egypt and the UAE. We expect to see continuing strong demand on this route, particularly from government and business travellers, as well as the Egyptian expatriate population living in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE.”
Etihad Airways
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Air News
Air Seychelles Takes Off for Abu Dhabi Air Seychelles has officially launched new direct services from Mahé to Abu Dhabi, complementing air links currently being operated by Etihad Airways on the route, while another flight is set to be introduced in June. Air Seychelles will offer 856 seats per week in addition to the 1,088 seats provided by Etihad Airways on its Airbus A320 flights. Cramer Ball, CEO, Air Seychelles, commented on the launch, “Reaching into the Gulf region and beyond will further stimulate the local tourism industry. The Seychelles is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and the extra flights will help ensure the recent record growth in visitor numbers continues. Air Seychelles is well-positioned to leverage that demand into commercial growth, particularly by tapping into Etihad Airways’ rapidly expanding global network.”
Jazeera Airways Launches Web Check-in Jazeera Airways is the first airline in Kuwait to introduce a full web check-in service, enabling travellers to check-in from home, prior to their arrival at the airport. Passengers that fly without baggage can report directly to immigration, without following the check-in process, while passengers with baggage can only drop their bags at the specified counter and pass through easily. As for the moment, the web check-in is only available at Kuwait International Airport, but more airports will be participating in the programme in the following months. The process can be completed from 24 hours to one hour before departure, and travellers are also able to choose their seat. Ali Fairooz, vice president, ground operations, Jazeera Airways, expressed, “Our new two-step process is fast, efficient, comfortable, and empowers our guests to take more control over their travel plans. This is truly Kuwait’s first full web check-in service, and we are confident that both our leisure and our business travellers customers will utilise and rely on this new service.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Jet Airways Serves Dammam Jet Airways now provides a direct connection between Dammam and Delhi, four times weekly, marking the third link between the Saudi Arabian city and India, and further strengthening Indo-Gulf ties. Already providing Boeing 737 services, currently operating from Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram, the airline’s new route also offers onward connections from and to Kathmandu and Dhaka, as well as to some leading destinations on the domestic network through the Indira Gandhi International Airport. Commenting on the airline’s presence in the Gulf, Sudheer Raghavan, chief commercial officer, Jet Airways, said, “The airline has already established itself as a prominent brand in the highly competitive Indo-Gulf sector on account of the warmth and quality of its in-flight product. We are confident that the new service will equally prove popular with our guests. The service will also provide convenient connections from and to Delhi to neighbouring countries like Kathmandu and Dhaka and also to important stations in India.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
Air News
Abu Dhabi to Shanghai Etihad Airways has commenced scheduled flights from its hub in Abu Dhabi to Shanghai, China, which will initially see five weekly Airbus A330-300 services between the two cities, with commitments to soon become a daily flight, as of April 15. James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, noted that the new route had special significance, as the first non-stop commercial passenger flight between Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, offering the prestige of a three-class aircraft which includes private suites and an onboard chef. “The new Shanghai route brings the capital of the UAE and the commercial and financial centre of mainland China closer together, and creates new opportunities for government, trade, tourism and cultural exchange,” he said. “Our schedule provides full connectivity to key destinations and offers passengers from the Shanghai catchment greater choice and travel convenience,” Hogan added.
nasair Expands Domestic Routes nasair, Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, recently commenced flights between Jeddah and Jizan, situated on the coast of the Red Sea, for the first time. In addition, the airline has also announced that it is to launch four weekly flights between Jeddah and Madinah.
nasair
Felix Air Flies to Bahrain International Airport Felix Air launched its first direct flights from Yemen to Bahrain International Airport, in a recent ceremony held at the airport, which was attended by Graham Henderson, CEO, Felix Air, alongside other high-ranking officials. The airline will be flying from Bahrain with two weekly services; one to Sana’a on Tuesdays, and another to Aden on Fridays, with a chance of frequency increases in the near future.
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WHO'S MOVED
Richard Bleakley Richard Bleakley has been appointed resident manager of JW Marriott Hotel Dubai. Bleakley, who recently arrived from the UK, carries more than 12 years of hospitality experience, having previously held numerous key positions for Marriott International including regional director of sales and market-
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ing at West Region Marriott UK, director of operations at Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club, and general manager of Northhampton Marriott Hotel. In his new role, Bleakley will oversee the front office, room operations, housekeeping, laundry services, as well as the Griffins Health Club.
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Daniela Skopnik Daniela Skopnik has returned to Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence as director of marketing. Skopnik, who was part of the property’s opening team in 2000, started off as senior sales manager before broadening her scope to oversee sales of all Four Seasons hotels in Egypt to the European
market. Her extensive sales and marketing experience spans 24 years across five countries, and her various positions range from sales manager to vice president of marketing for global hotel brands. In her new position, Skopnik will lead the sales and marketing team of the hotel.
TRAVEL TALK
travel talk is your space
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Moussa El Hayek
Aamir Pervez
Chief operating officer, Al Bustan Centre & Residence.
General manager, Corp Executive Hotel Apartments, Al Barsha.
“[In 2011] we enjoyed more than 35 percent increase compared with 2010. We feel that Dubai once again regained its advanced and reputed position due to the safe environment, developed infrastructure, and world class attractions. The beginning of this year was also very promising and if the trend continues in the same spirit, this year will be much better than 2011. The UAE hospitality industry has become a trademark in the tourism sector, and every traveller dreams to come to Dubai.”
“As we continue to build on our success, it is vital to develop our corporate business that remains our strategic focus. Corporate business is one of the strongest and most stable sectors for us. Growth in this segment is an essential part of our business strategy. Our Corporate Package is designed to offer outstanding value to business travellers. We see great opportunities for our brand and are committed to provide the very best in service and quality to all our customers.”
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AGENT'S CORNER
AGENT'S INSIGHT NAME: Gasser Riad POSITION: Chairman COMPANY: Nature Travel LOCATION: Egypt WEB: www.naturetravelegypt.com Who are you? I am the chairman of Nature Travel, which is based in Nuweiba, South Sinai. Here, we offer personalised tours throughout Egypt, and also to Jordan and Israel, with many holiday options to choose from. In addition, we also provide assistance to companies planning incentive trips, events, and conferences. What is your favourite thing about working in this industry? To be able to promote my country to people and do my job from my heart. When is the best time to visit Egypt? Any time is perfect. The variety of places to explore and activities to do means that there is something for everyone. Sinai especially offers great choices from snorkelling and diving to visiting Mount Moses and the Monastery of St. Catherine, or learning about Bedouin life in the desert. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? I would love to travel to Cyprus. Why should people come to you for travel advice? Nature Travel has 29 years of experience, and our staff and guides have the knowledge to advise you on all your holiday preferences, and follow up with excellent service. Nature Travel also has its own transport company ensuring the vehicle is comfortable, clean, and safe.
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Dubai to Host ASTA Expo The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is to organise its eighth annual International Destination Expo in Dubai, on April 3 – 7, 2013. Through the expo, ASTA aims to provide certified destination training to endow agents with the essential knowledge and skills needed to market their business in order to further increase sales. “Dubai is an amazing, growing destination that is expected to host more than 15 million international tourists annually by 2015,” said Tony Gonchar, CEO, ASTA. “We want to ensure our global travel agent members are fully equipped to fulfill their customer’s expectations on Dubai with hands-on and on-the -ground experience.” The expo will provide a suitable setting for attendees to attain information on the destination, acquire understanding of the key factors to increase sales in the region, and establish new relations or strengthen already existing ties with local suppliers. In addition, attendees will also have the opportunity to take part in an exciting line-up of pre- and post-tours to gain real life experience.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
IATA Warns of Further Challenges Ahead The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has downgraded its industry outlook for the current year, yet expects Middle Eastern airlines to outperform even the previous forecast.
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wning primarily to a rise in the predicted average price of oil, IATA now expects airlines to turn a global profit of USD3 billion for a 0.5 percent margin, marking a USD500 million downgrade from the organisation’s December forecast. “The current year continues to be a challenging year for airlines,” stressed Tony Tyler, CEO, IATA. “The risk of a worsening Eurozone crisis has been replaced by an equally toxic risk, rising oil prices. Already the damage is be-
ing felt with a downgrade in industry profits to USD3 billion,” he added, further indicating the close ties between airlines’ performances and GDP growth. “With GDP growth projections now at two percent and an anemic margin of 0.5 percent, it will not take much of a shock to push the industry into the red for the year.” Although all regions are expected to record reduced profitability compared to 2011, Middle East carriers’ profits should reach some USD500 million, according to figures released by the association, showing a significant im-
provement over the previously forecasted USD300 million. Middle East airlines’ financial performance have already proven to be better than expected in 2011, with an upgrade from USD400 million to USD1 billion, while load factors have improved by a slowdown in the introduction of new capacity, and long haul markets have remained relatively robust. However, Tyler called for governments to take a more strategic approach to the aviation industry with competitiveness-enabling policies, to face future challenges.
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RENDEZVOUS
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Q & A with Liam Wholey Quintessentially has been offering lifestyle management and concierge services for over a decade. Here, Liam Wholey, CEO, Quintessentially, Middle East and Africa, talks about how the club makes its members’ life easier and richer, through a wide range of exclusive services.
Travel Trade Weekly: Could you tell us about the services and benefits the club offers?
Liam Wholey CEO, Quintessentially, Middle East and Africa
Liam Wholey: Quintessentially is the world’s leading luxury private members’ club with a global 24-hour concierge service. Boasting over 60 offices in key cities around the world, Quintessentially members enjoy access to a range of exclusive benefits that save them time, stress, and money, as well as 24-hour support and assistance no matter where they are or when they need it. Our quest for perfection has led us to partner with some of the world’s most exclusive hotels, luxurious spas, and Michelin-starred restaurants, to ensure our members enjoy only the very best treatment and service. So, no matter if you call Hong Kong, Singapore, New York, Beijing or Sydney home, Quintessentially can help you make the most out of your precious time. Travel Trade Weekly: Quintessentially’s travel concierge caters to everyday travel needs. What kind of services do you provide and how successful have they been with travellers in the UAE? Liam Wholey: No one person on this Earth is the same, so we believe no two holidays we create should be the same. As masters of travel couture, we tailor-make each experience, providing our members with exclusive access to the globe's finest hotels, villas, chalets, and retreats. Of course, we will also make sure our members arrive in style be it by private or commercial jet, a luxury cruise ship, or even on the back of an Indian elephant. From the ordinary to the extraordinary, the known to
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call away. Put simply, we can make you as connected as you are in your own city pretty much anywhere you travel to. Travel Trade Weekly: Quintessentially’s members also enjoy a range of benefits at an array of renowned hotels worldwide, including best available rates, early check in, and so on. What are your key selection criteria? Liam Wholey: We partner with hundreds of hotels globally and we pride ourselves on working with only the very best worldwide. We personally inspect all hotels to make sure they are up to the standard we expect before they are allowed to join our portfolio of product.
the unknown, we do not just create holidays; we create experiences that last a lifetime. Travel Trade Weekly: What makes these kind of services, such as the travel concierge, needed and successful in the Arab world? Who are your members? Liam Wholey: In the MENA region, the people who we look after are very well-connected in their own cities. The extra value of Quintessentially membership comes to the fore when our members are travelling – we do not only provide all the services around travel, but we also have in-depth knowledge of the destinations to which they are travelling as we are likely to have an office there. So, it is not simply about organising the travel aspect but also about local knowledge, access, and real advice and support at the destination. We are always only a phone
No one person on this Earth is the same, so we believe no two holidays we create should be the same Travel Trade Weekly: What plans do you have in place for the current year to further enhance the services and benefits for Quintessentially members in the region? Liam Wholey: We are in the process of gaining the relevant licenses to be able to offer better commercial airfare rates which will only enhance our offering to our members. We aim to gain better rates and benefits year on year for our members.
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NEWS & EVENTS
ITB Berlin 2012: More Business, Greater Cooperation ITB Berlin this year closed on a high note after recording an increased number of trade visitors while exhibitors reported more contracts signed. The 46th edition of the event received a total of 113,006 trade visitors, of which 39.7 percent arrived from abroad to obtain information about all sectors of the international travel industry, from the 10,644 exhibitors spanning across 187 countries around the globe. Drawing some highly positive conclusions, Christian Göke, chief operating officer, Messe Berlin, said, “Over 2,200 trade visitors more than 2011, an outstanding climate for business and the efficient creation of new business contacts at the newly established ITB Buyers Circle, all underlined the position of ITB Berlin as a world leader. Considering the current political and economic challenges, the topics chosen for the ITB Berlin convention were certainly the right ones. Experts pointed out strategies for achieving sustainability and for the effective use of smartphone-based technologies. As a consequence, ITB Berlin was able to demonstrate why it occupies the leading position as a platform for disseminating knowledge throughout the tourism industry.” As the official partner country, Egypt experienced
strong solidarity from the international travel industry, noted Mounir Fahkry Abdel Nour, minister of tourism, Egypt. “In addition to the support that I received, I am very happy that the problems, in a political context, have not affected the general mood in the slightest; in fact quite the contrary,” he said. “It seems to me that ITB Berlin is growing larger all the time, and it is vibrant and more lively than ever. This ITB is different from 2011’s. I am experiencing a willingness among countries to cooperate and I find this very encouraging.” One of the most important subjects of the event proved to be sustainability in tourism, with the scope covered ranging from accessible tourism to human rights, seals of quality, geoparks, rain forests, and the overexploitation of resources. “Once again, ITB has proven an unmissable event for the world’s tourism sector and an absolute must for all those looking to boost business and better understand the latest tourism trends, developments, and prospects,” Taleb Rifai, secretary-general, World Tourism Organization, expressed, particularly welcoming Egypt as the event’s official partner and praising the overwhelming support of the tourism community to the country.
EVENTS GIBTM Abu Dhabi, UAE, March 26 – 28, 2012 (www.gibtm.com) A leading event for business travel in the GCC region, unlocking business potential within the Middle East for all professionals. Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market (STTIM) Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, April 2 – 5, 2012 (www.sttim.com.sa) An event that covers all travel and tourism investment aspects in a combined conference and exhibition, aimed at presenting and promoting investment opportunities and tourism services.
Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai, UAE, April 30 – May 2, 2012 (www.arabiantravelmarket.com) A major event that unlocks business potential within the Middle East for tourism professionals, where destinations around the world showcase their diverse range of tourism options. GTM German Travel Mart (GTM) Leipzig, Germany, May 13 – 15, 2012 (www.germany.travel) The largest incoming workshop in Germany where German providers can meet key buyers from the international travel industry.
China Outbound Travel & Tourism Market (COTTM) Beijing, China, April 18 – 20, 2012 (www.cottm.com) A business-to-business exhibition, which provides a platform for international tourism boards and travel services.
The Hotel Show Dubai, UAE, May 15 – 17, 2012 (www.thehotelshow.com) An exhibition providing a unique networking and sourcing platform within the region with over 14,800 professionals.
Arabian Hotel Investment Conference Dubai, UAE, April 28 – 30, 2012 (www.arabianconference.com) An event that brings together regional leaders to discuss the key topics and challenges of the coming months.
Imex Frankfurt, Germany, May 22 – 24, 2012 (www.imex-frankfurt.com) The show where the global meetings industry continues to do business while maximising connections and networking opportunities.
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