Travel Trade Weekly Issue 155

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27 OCTOBER 2012

ISSUE 155

Novotel Returns to Abu Dhabi Accor has further strengthened its mid-scale portfolio in the UAE capital with the opening of Novotel Abu Dhabi Gate on October 19.

Wyndham Hotel Group has signed an agreement with Cooperation Investment House to manage its landmark property in Manama’s Bahrain Bay.

06 Etihad Airways and Garuda Indonesia to Codeshare Etihad Airways has signed a new codeshare deal with Garuda Indonesia, set to come into effect on October 28.

10 IN THIS ISSUE RENDEZVOUS WEEKLY NEWS MARKET UPDATE ACCOMMODATION AIR NEWS WHO’S MOVED TRAVEL TALK AGENT’S CORNER TRAVEL CHANNELS RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS

02 03 04 06 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

Wyndham Grand to Debut in Bahrain in 2013

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RENDEZVOUS

Q & A with George Assaf As Marriott International is gearing up to open its 10th hotel in Turkey, George Assaf, general manager, Renaissance Izmir Hotel, talks about the brand’s upcoming debut in the country and the Turkish hospitality industry’s fast-paced development and future prospects.

Travel Trade Weekly: Renaissance Izmir Hotel is due to welcome its first guests at the end of the year. What will make the hotel stand out from the rapidly increasing competition?

George Assaf: Renaissance Izmir Hotel is centrally located in the heart of Izmir’s commercial district, just steps from the waterfront and the popular Kordon Promenade.

You cannot miss the charming outside façade of the hotel when you are in Gazi Osman Pasa Boulevard. Renaissance Hotels is the signature lifestyle brand within the Marriott International global portfolio, and this hotel will be a great addition to this beautiful city.

The hotel is housing the brand’s signature ’R’ Lounge, and it will bring the distinct look and feel of the Renaissance Hotels brand to the city while incorporating indigenous inspiration in every detail.

The 110 large and sophisticated guestrooms will boast luxury bedding and the latest in technology. An all-day dining restaurant serving Mediterranean delights will be located on the rooftop offering sweeping views of Izmir Bay. Leisure facilities will include a fitness centre, spa, and plunge pool, while corporate needs are catered for with 198m2 of meeting space set across three meeting rooms and a dedicated business centre.

Travel Trade Weekly: Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey, attracting not only tourists but also corporate travellers and businessmen. Which segments are you targeting?

George Assaf: At Renaissance Izmir Hotel, our main target will be the corporate traveller.

George Assaf General manager, Renaissance Izmir Hotel

sions and tours, trendy cafés and restaurants, right by the sea, with great food and more.

Therefore, of course the Middle East will be an important part of our plans.

Travel Trade Weekly: How do you think the country’s hotel sector will continue to develop over the next few years?

George Assaf: I believe that the demand for more hotels will further grow, as the number of arrivals to the country is increasing every year.

Travel Trade Weekly: Over the past few years, Turkey has become one of the most talkedabout destinations in the region. What are the major factors behind this success?

The demand for more hotels will further grow Travel Trade Weekly: Turkey has long been a preferred destination among travellers from the Middle East. How popular do you think Renaissance Izmir Hotel will be among this market?

George Assaf: I can see that the number of Middle Eastern travellers to Turkey is growing every year. Izmir has a lot to offer from its sea to its nature, climate, cultural attractions, and museums, as well as daily excur-

George Assaf: Turkey has everything for investors, as well as for businessmen and leisure seekers.

It has a long and exceptionally attractive coastline, many natural attractions, unique historical and archaeological sites, a suitable climate, improving touristic infrastructure, and a tradition of hospitality.

In addition, it has a stable economy with steady GDP growth and a qualified workforce, not to mention the country’s wealth of culture.

Turkey is classified as a newly industrialised country by economists and political scientists, and is described by the World Bank as an emerging economy.

In fact, Turkey is one of the largest producers in the agricultural sector, has the largest TV producer in Europe, is the seventh largest automotive producer, and its textile and clothing exports reach USD13 billion.

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WEEKLY NEWS Jordan Tourism Investments Unveils Mirage Jordan Tourism Investments Company (JTI) has showcased the first phase of Mirage, a multipurpose touristic destination built on a stretch of land spanning 4000m2 in close proximity to Queen Alia International Airport.

The project, scheduled to open in spring 2013, is envisaged to become the centrepiece of the new and expanding Amman as it merges the authentic local heritage with the contemporary experience, which reflects the nation’s aspiration, and represents a significant milestone in strengthening Jordan’s position in the region’s touristic and hospitality landscape.

The project is also set to offer a lucrative prospect for business professionals to invest within the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

27 OCTOBER 2012

New MotorCity for Hertz Growth in car rental services among UAE residents has sparked the opening of a new outlet at MotorCity for Hertz, which marks the company’s 16th branch in the country.

Commenting on the new member, Nigel Johnson, managing director, Hertz UAE, said, “The new MotorCity branch will be a significant step in our strategic network expansion as the first neighbourhood car rental service available to residents in that particular area of Dubai.

“Our development across the UAE looks to offer greater convenience to our growing customer database, but it is also about a commitment to invest in the market in which we are operating and the people who are growing our brand.”

Johnson added that this new outlet is perfectly placed to capture the company’s large expat business, particularly from Arabian Ranches, Victory Heights, and Green Community.

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SMD Plans Further Developments Since its establishment in 2006, Sharjah Museums Department (SMD) has been playing an active role in promoting the emirate, as it continues to look for ways to improve its services, according to Manal Ataya, director general, SMD.

Museum of Islamic Civilization

The three main goals of the department are to provide a learning environment through its diverse collections, to develop new museum projects, and to train UAE nationals in the field of museum studies, as Ataya explained, “The establishment of this department is the beginning of great plans to strengthen and unify the cultural sector of Sharjah and, most importantly, in this strategy is the sustainability of such a department and its museums which means that the recruitment and investment in training UAE nationals in museum work is key to our continued success and profile as a leader in the region for culture and arts.”

Ataya pointed out that there is definitely scope for new museums, renovations of existing museum galleries, and new exciting exhibition programming as part of the future plans for SMD.

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MARKET UPDATE

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel JOURNALISTS Stefanie Saghbini Rita Kasziba Dominique Christou

QAIA: New Records Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) achieved new records in September, based on the latest traffic report released by Airport International Group (AIG), the Jordanian consortium responsible for the rehabilitation, expansion and operation of QAIA.

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SALES & MARKETING Maria Demetriadou Derek Lainsbury 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

26/10/2012 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar

COUNTRY

CURRENCY

1USD=

UAE (AED)

Dirham

3.67

Egypt (EGP)

Pound

6.11

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

68.90

Kuwait (KWD)

Dinar

0.28

Qatar (QAR)

Riyal

3.64

Oman (OMR)

Rial

0.38

Tunisia (TND)

Dinar

1.57

Morocco (MAD)

Dirham

8.60

Iran (IRR)

Riyal

12,270.00

Yemen (YER)

Rial

214.61

Algeria (DZD)

Dinar

79.37

Libya (LYD)

Dinar

1.25

n September, a record number of 545,941 travellers passed through the airport’s terminal, marking a yearon-year increase of 5.69 percent, and pushing the year-to-date figure to above 4.83 million, a rise of 17.42 percent over the corresponding period in 2011.

Meanwhile, aircraft movements (ACM) rose 1.74 percent with 5,564 ACM recorded in September, meaning that in the first nine months of the year, this figure at the airport totalled 51,063, an increase of 7.25 percent.

In light of the upcoming opening of the new terminal, September’s results are highly promising, Kjeld Binger, CEO, AIG, noted, adding, “These positive results and the increases seen in previous months, despite political and social instability throughout the region, further support our confidence in

Rendering image of QAIA

the upcoming developments at the airport.

However, it is also clear that the extremely high growth we have seen so far during this year has peaked.”

AIG is investing an estimated USD750 million in the construction of the new terminal, which is now 91 percent complete and which will increase airport capacity threefold, to nine million passengers annually.

Eurostar: Solid Performance and Fleet Refurbishment Eurostar, the high-speed rail service between the UK and mainland Europe, reported strong performance results for the third quarter of the year, although travel patterns were significantly influenced by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and unfavourable economic conditions.

During the sporting event, of which Eurostar was a sponsor, passenger numbers were up four percent, however the number of leisure travellers entering the UK from Europe in July declined, compared to 2011 figures.

Meanwhile, the entire three-month period saw the train company carry some 2.6 million travellers, bringing the year-to-date figure to 7.4 million, versus the 7.3 million recorded in the corresponding period in 2011.

Although having reported an overall drop in sales revenues of one percent, to GBP612 million (USD987 million), Eurostar announced significant progress to its GBP700 million (USD1.1 billion) fleet investment programme, which includes the refurbishment of its existing seats and the purchase of 10 new trains, placing the company on scheduled to complete the transformation of its entire fleet by 2015.

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WEEKLY NEWS

Accommodation

Novotel Returns to Abu Dhabi Accor has further strengthened its midscale portfolio in the UAE capital with the opening of Novotel Abu Dhabi Gate, on October 19.

Clustered with an ibis-branded property, the 224room hotel features 24/7 cuisine, meeting facilities, a dedicated children’s area, and fitness and wellness services, catering to both business and leisure clientele.

“Novotel Abu Dhabi Gate is the latest addition to our growing network of modern mid-scale properties in the region. We continue to trailblaze in our ambition to build a strong base in Abu Dhabi which is prominent for our Novotel brand development,” commented Christophe Landais, managing director, Accor Middle East.

Novotel Abu Dhabi Gate

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi to Open in Q1 2013 Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, the latest addition to the Thai hotel company’s UAE portfolio, is set to welcome its first guests in the first quarter of 2013.

Strategically located between Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center and Abu Dhabi Corniche, the property will feature 402 rooms, 131 deluxe apartments, dining outlets, and leisure as well as corporate facilities, designed around the needs of today’s sophisticated traveller, as Diana Ionescu, marketing communication manager, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, explained, “[It] offers a spacious convention centre with a variety of function rooms, facilitating all types of events, conferences, exhibitions, or social events, able to host up to 2,000 guests.”

Katara Hospitality and The Gambia Sign MoU Katara Hospitality has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Republic of The Gambia.

Under the MoU, the government of The Gambia will offer the Qatari company a plot of land, with an area of 18ha located in Bijilo Forest Park on the western African coast, to build a hospitality complex. Welcoming Katara Hospitality to the African country, H.E. Faton Mass Jobe-Nije, minister of culture and tourism, Republic of The Gambia, said, “We are confident that this investment in Bijilo Forest Park will contribute significantly to boosting the tourism sector not only in the area, but in the country.”

Rotana Partners with MMI Rotana has signed a hotel management contract with Al Majmoua Almouritania pour l’Investissement (MMI) to manage a hotel in Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania.

The signing ceremony for the new hotel, which took place in Abu Dhabi, will see the upcoming five-star property located within the southern sea-front of the mixed-use Ribat al Bahar project and launched under Rotana’s Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts by Rotana brand.

The hotel, slated to open late-2014, will include more than 230 rooms, specialised restaurants, meeting rooms, swimming pools, and a gym, in addition to all the services expected of a world-class five-star hotel.

27 OCTOBER 2012

Accommodation

Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi Undergoes Refurbishment As visitor numbers to Abu Dhabi continue to climb, Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi is undergoing a refurbishment in a bid to further increase its market share.

According to Shaun Parsons, general manager, Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, these changes come in line with the stiffening competition in the capital’s hotel sector, thus will bring the hotel’s offer and service delivery to new heights.

One third of the room inventory has already been done, while the rest is set to be complete by summer 2013. “The Club lounge is being completely re-done as well as the food and beverage outlets, and soon we will be announcing a couple of new restaurant openings with brand new concepts which will be new to Abu Dhabi,” Parsons clarified.

WEEKLY NEWS

Armada Hotel Opens at Dubai Investment Park Armada Hotel has welcomed its first guests at Dubai Investments Park (DIP), the largest mixed-use development in the UAE and a subsidiary of Dubai Investments.

Spread over 18,580m2 of leased land, the property comprises 252 rooms and offers a cost-effective boarding option without compromising on any of the components provided by top-tier hospitality choices, as Rosemarie Aquino, manager, Armada Hotel, noted. “Flanked by multinational business houses and located in strategic proximity to key transit hubs, we are already witnessing a significant influx of guests,” she added.

According to Omar Mesmar, general manager, DIP, the hotel, with its food and beverage outlets and recreational facilities ensures all guests alike quality accomodation at a competitive price.

Saudi Arabia to Welcome New Radisson Blu in 2015

Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi

Holiday Inn Celebrates 60 Years Holiday Inn turns 60 this month, six decades after the first Holiday Inn hotel opened in Memphis Tennessee in the US, and Cairo has been invited to join in the worldwide celebration of the diamond anniversary for this iconic brand at Holiday Inn Cairo Citystars.

The Egyptian capital’s property is one of 3,375 Holiday Inn hotels around the world, and was the first of the IHG-brand to open in the city.

“For us, Holiday Inn’s 60th is a celebration of the firsts that have kept our hotels fresh and the brand so popular. Here, at Holiday Inn Cairo Citystars, it is also a great opportunity for us to share the excitement with our community and regular guests, and celebrate our own firsts,” said Mohamed Ibrahim, general manager, Holiday Inn Cairo Citystars.

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The Rezidor Hotel Group is to further strengthen its presence in Saudi Arabia with the launch of Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence, Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter, scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2015.

Featuring 110 units, an all-day dining restaurant, a fitness centre, and 150m2 of meeting space, the proposed hotel residence represents one of the several initiatives undertaken by H.R.H. Prince Salman Bin Abdul Aziz, the newly-appointed Crowne Prince of the Kingdom.

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WEEKLY NEWS

Accommodation

Wyndham Grand to Debut in Bahrain in 2013 Wyndham Hotel Group has signed an agreement with Cooperation Investment House to manage its landmark property in Manama’s Bahrain Bay, marking the first Wyndham Grand hotel in the Kingdom.

Scheduled to open by the end of 2013, the five-star Wyndham Grand Manama will cover 14 floors of the mixeduse development and will comprise 260

guest rooms, 500m2 of meeting space, a 900m2 ballroom, indoor and outdoor pools, health clubs, and five food and beverage outlets.

Set in the USD2.5 billion Bahrain Bay Development, Wyndham Grand Manama will face the World Trade Centre, just a short distance from Bahrain Financial Harbour, making it ideal for business as well

Dusit Thani Dubai Undergoes Room Renovation Dusit Thani Dubai, the five-star hotel located in the city’s vibrant business district, has embarked on a room renovation.

“The renovation is now in process with very limited inconvenience to our guests,” James Wilson, general manager, Dusit Thani Dubai, explained, adding that the first new rooms will be available for guests within the next couple of months.

The refreshed new look is set to appeal to the growing number of guests at the 321-room hotel, which, according to Wilson, has witnessed a significant increase in bookings from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, especially during holiday periods.

Elaf Group of Companies Welcomes Hajj Season The Hajj season remains one of the most important periods of the year for the Saudi tourism industry and Elaf Group of Companies aims to utilise this opportunity.

“We remain upbeat in achieving outstanding results during this year’s Hajj and Ummrah season. In fact, we have prepared ourselves for the increased number of tourists making their pilgrimage this year by providing them with all the services that they will need for their visit,” commented Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, president, Elaf Group of Companies.

Recent studies have shown that hotel revenues in Mecca alone have previously hit SAR4 billion (USD3.1 million) during the Hajj season. In response to the high demand, Elaf Group of Companies has announced a 50 percent increase on incentives and group packages.

as leisure travellers.

Commenting on the new project, Bani Haddad, regional vice president, Middle East and Africa, Wyndham Hotel Group, said, “Each Wyndham Grand hotel takes in some of the flavour of its destination and this modern, cosmopolitan setting will be reflected in the hotel along with historical Bahraini influences.”

Tulip Inn Royal Suites Ajman Targets New Markets Situated along the Corniche Road of the emirate, just 30 minutes from Dubai International, Tulip Inn Royal Suites Ajman aims to tap into new markets.

With the beginning of the cooler months, the hotel hopes to recreate the success of the first half of the year, as Arun Kumar, general manager, Tulip Inn Royal Suites Ajman, explained, adding that in a bid to further boost business levels, the property runs various promotions. “We mainly concentrate on the GCC sector and the CIS nations during winter months. We are now, however, also laying great emphasis on expanding to the Asian subcontinent,” he concluded.

Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort Changes Concept Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort, the five-star Moroccan-style hotel in the heart of Fujairah, is to further enhance its offerings with the addition of new facilities.

The hotel, which has achieved more than 70 percent occupancy so far this year, is building a new conference and wedding hall that can accommodate up to 700 guests and more meeting room, according to Ashraf Helmy, general manager, Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort.

Moreover, Hemly revealed that the entire concept of the hotel will be changed from a 353-room property to a villa resort comrpising 60 units.

27 OCTOBER 2012

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WEEKLY NEWS

Air News

Etihad Airways and Garuda Indonesia to Codeshare Etihad Airways has signed a new codeshare agreement with Garuda Indonesia, set to come into effect on October 28.

In the first phase of the partnership, Etihad Airways will place its ‘EY’ code on Garuda Indonesia’s services between Jakarta and Denpasar and Kuala Lumpur.

Subject to regulatory approval, Garuda Indonesia will place its ‘GA’ code on Etihad Airways’ flights from Jakarta to up to 31 destinations in the GCC, Levant, Africa, Europe, and North America.

According to James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, the codeshare with Garuda Indonesia was a key plank of the airline’s development strategy and will contribute to the achievement of the UAE national carrier’s goal of expanding its network and brand presence in Southeast Asia.

Similarly, Emirsyah Satar, CEO, Garuda Indonesia, added, “This codeshare partnership between Garuda Indonesia and Etihad Airways will further strengthen the global network of both airlines and provide increased benefits to all our passengers.”

Air Arabia Launches Flights to Astana Air Arabia has announced the expansion of services to Kazakhstan with the launch of twice weekly flights to Astana, the country’s capital city, set to commence on October 31.

The airline currently flies six times per week to Almaty, the largest city in the country, which, according to Adel Ali, group CEO, Air Arabia, has seen a lot of positive developments over the past years. ”We are delighted to complement our existing flight to Almaty by starting a new service to the capital, Astana. The economic links between Kazakhstan and the Middle East are strong and we are confident with this new launch, we will enable more people to fly efficiently and affordably between the UAE and Kazakhstan,” he commented.

Bahrain Air and nasair Sign Agreement Bahrain Air and nasair have signed a codeshare agreement on flights from Dammam, Saudi Arabia, at a ceremony which was held on October 14, at the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain in Manama.

The first phase will be implemented with the sectors from Dammam to Khartoum and Dammam to Beirut between the two carriers.

Under the agreement, travellers will have a wider spectrum of options in using both airlines’ route networks to their convenience when nasair places its ‘XY’ code on Bahrain Air flights currently operating from Dammam to Beirut and Khartoum.

Richard Nuttall, CEO, Bahrain Air, feels optimistic that this tie-up will be a win-win for both carriers, as he further commented, “We see this as the start of a more extensive collaboration that will bring benefits to customers of both carriers. Passenger numbers will grow with the wide offering of network and competitive pricing.”

Bahrain Air

27 OCTOBER 2012

WHO'S MOVED

Nehal Rizvi Nehal Rizvi has taken on the position of general manager at Crown Palace Hotel, Ajman.

A graduate of the Institute of Hospitality and Management in India, Rizvi was handpicked to take part in the management programme of the Oberoi School of Hotel Management. After gaining experience as a management trainee

at Oberoi Intercontinental Hotel in New Delhi, he spent six years in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, before moving to the UAE to join Habtoor Hotels’ Metropolitan Palace Hotel, Dubai, and Metropolitan Hotel Deira, Dubai, and later Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, where he served as associate director of sales corporate.

Josef Kufer Josef Kufer has been named chief operating officer at Emaar Hospitality Group, the hospitality and leisure subsidiary of Emaar Properties.

In his new position, Kufer is responsible for the overall operations of the organisation and will work to develop and implement strategies that drive the group’s profitability.

Spearheading projects within the subsidiaries, he will also focus on expansion the company’s five-star premium brand, The Address Hotels +

27 OCTOBER 2012

Resorts.

With over 30 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Kufer brings with him strong domain knowledge of the sector having gained invaluable insights on the global hospitality landscape through his work experience with renowned chains in Germany, New York, Paris, California, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia, Oman, India, Lebanon, Egypt and Africa.

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Nizar Abou El Ezz Nizar Abou El Ezz has joined Al-Jahra Copthorne Hotel & Resort, Kuwait, part of the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels, as director of sales and marketing.

Having previously worked in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, Abou El Ezz brings vast experience to the position in which his responsibilities include maximising potential rev-

enues; managing the sales and marketing department; and building up, maintaining, and enhancing business relations with all clients of the hotel.

Abou El Ezz sees his new role as a great opportunity in which he can exploit his expertise and utilise his already well-established business relations.

TRAVEL TALK

travel talk is your space

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Ashraf Naguib

Sahl Dudin

General manager, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cairo Heliopolis.

Managing director, Ayla Oasis Development Company (AODC).

“[Having been named ’Egypt’s best hotel for supporting the environment’ and receiving a certificate of excellence from the minister of tourism] is a great honour for us and it is wonderful for the hotel and its staff to be recognised for its commitment to protecting the planet […]. At Radisson Blu Heliopolis Hotel, Cairo, supporting the tourism industry and protecting the environment are two goals that go hand-in-hand.”

“[Jordan’s first 18-hole grass golf course, which is being developed by AODC in Aqaba], is an enabler that will enhance Aqaba’s and Jordan’s positions in the tourism sector and will complement the efforts towards developing the sector in general.

We were encouraged by Greg Norman’s statement that from his 40-year experience, he considered Ayla among the best in the world due to the phenomenal scale and unique design setting.”

François Bouteiller CEO, nasair.

“The whole nasair team is very proud of the work achieved by our interactive marketing team headed by Akram Husain [after being named the ‘most popular airline on social media’] since the interaction with our nasair customers has always been of paramount importance, and I am glad that new technology, on which nasair has always been very active, assists us on providing better services to our beloved customers and enhancing our revenue.”

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, and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

27 OCTOBER 2012

AGENT'S CORNER

AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Innocent DCosta POSITION: Manager COMPANY: Go Travel LOCATION: Saudi Arabia

Who are you?

I have been in the travel industry for over two decades and have grown with this agency which deals primarily with the booking of air tickets and tour packages to select destinations.

What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry?

Job satisfaction and the pleasure of seeing our clients happy after a trip.

When is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia?

In terms of the weather, November to March are the best months.

Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday?

Maybe to Portugal.

Why should people come to you for travel advice?

Travellers today are well versed as a result of the information available on the net, news agencies, but above all from your publication of the travel trade, which I, in particular, use for holiday destinations.

Having said this, advice can be relative and can be given not only by those who are experienced but more so by those who make an effort to learn through discussions, dialogues, and so on.

Over the years, I have learnt that advice given can be used as a selling tool. Let the client decide what is best for him or her after having taken your suggestion, and in most cases it will eventually turn out to be a sale which is the ultimate and that is what we are here for.

27 OCTOBER 2012

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Travelport Signs Long-Term Agreement with Qantas Airways Travelport has announced a new long-term agreement with Qantas Airways, effective immediately, which ensures Galileo-, Worldspan-, and Apollo-connected travel agents worldwide access to the airline’s fully-published inventory, including ancillary content such as paid seating, consistent with the carrier’s website.

“We are delighted to sign this long-term agreement with Qantas and secure this important content for our travel agency customers worldwide,” said Andrew Middleton, vice president, supplier services, Asia Pacific, Travelport.

In 2011, Travelport subscribers received full global distribution system access to the Qantas Airways’ advance seat selection product following the introduction of a new booking capability enabling agents to book and pay for preferred seats on the Australian flag carrier’s flights via their desktop. ”We are pleased to reach this agreement and look forward to strengthening our long-term relationship,” concluded Stephen Limbrick, executive general manager, domestic sales, distribution, and marketing, Qantas Airways.

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TRAVEL CHANNELS

Dubai Maritime Week 2012 Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has announced its full support to the first-ever Dubai Maritime Week 2012, to be held in November.

D

TCM has also pledged its support to the marine workshop, taking place on the sidelines of the event, which will discuss all maritimerelated issues and marine tourism affairs in the emirate.

Dubai Maritime Week 2012 will host a range of events to celebrate the emirate’s maritime heritage, including conferences, panel discussions, and forums, as well as public-oriented activities. According to Hamad Bin Mohammed Bin Mejren, executive director, business tourism, DTCM, hosting this global event reaffirms Dubai’s exalted international status, which has been achieved due to its visionary leadership and their support for various events taking place in the emirate. “The continuous efforts of Dubai Maritime City Authority and all the strategic partners [...] have also been noteworthy,” he commented.

Becoming Familiar with Dubai In cooperation with the major German tour operator, FTI Touristik, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), Germany, conducted a Dubai - UAE group familiarisation trip with FTI’s 55 best-selling travel agents.

During their stay in Dubai, between October 3 - 10, the travel agents gained deep, insight knowledge of Dubai as a travel destination, experiencing the emirate’s hotels, desert safaris on off-road jeeps, gold and spice souks, and a tour across the Dubai Creek on an Abra taxi.

Mansoor Bawazir, head of overseas promotions and inward missions, India, Middle East, and Southern and East Africa, DTCM, also held a presentation at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray hotel to extensively inform the travel agents about Dubai’s sights, attractions, and new projects.

27 OCTOBER 2012

RENDEZVOUS

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Q & A with Navaid Tehseen As Oman continues to strengthen its position on the regional and global tourism map, Navaid Tehseen, general manager, Eastin Residences Muscat, looks into the factors behind the Sultanate’s success and the upcoming developments which are guaranteed to fortify its overall tourism product.

Travel Trade Weekly: How would you evaluate the tourism industry’s role in Oman’s socio-economic development?

Navaid Tehseen: The tourism and hospitality industry continues to increase its proportion of Oman’s annual GDP, mainly due to the growth in the number of European tourists who are attracted to the unique experience that the sultanate provides.

One of the key reasons for this increase has been the investment in air links to help potential visitors to Oman’s shores.

New developments, such as integrated hotel projects and infrastructure, will also help to assert the industry’s presence as a vital part of a more diverse economic future.

Government investments into the future of the industry demonstrate the importance placed on meeting the requirements that come with being a top tourist attraction, which, in turn, will help sustain local communities.

Overall, during the last years, Oman’s tourism industry has rapidly expanded and has become one of the sultanate’s most pivotal non-oil sectors, specialising in eco-tourism and first-class tourism.

In light of this success, the tourism industry has become one of the top targets of the Omani long-term socio-economic plan.

Travel Trade Weekly: Which are your main source markets?

Navaid Tehseen: We have observed that the biggest market for our property and internationally-managed hotels are the GCC countries during the summer months and the German and European markets during the winter seasons.

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Navaid Tehseen General manager, Eastin Residences Muscat

Domestic and GCC tourism is growing strongly, especially for short-break holidays.

Furthermore, upcoming markets will be France, Germany, UK, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, and Scandinavia, as well as Russia, China, Japan, and India, during the course of 2013 and 2014.

Travel Trade Weekly: How do you think the sultanate’s tourism will continue to grow in the short- and long-term?

Navaid Tehseen: Oman’s Ministry of Tourism has forecast a 10 percent growth in the sector this year and aims to attract five million visitors a year by 2015.

In 2011, the tourism industry’s contribution to GDP was 2.6 percent and is on pace to exceed the country’s projection that the industry will contribute three percent to GDP in 2015.

In addition to focusing on its core markets

in the Gulf and Europe, the ministry is putting greater emphasis on attracting tourists from Asia.

It also coordinated with Oman Air and hotels across the country to launch the ’1 Free Night in Oman’ campaign to encourage stopovers on the carrier’s international network, which runs until December 22.

Another key pillar of the government’s tourism strategy is the construction of the Muscat Convention and Exhibition Centre, scheduled to be fully completed by 2015, and surrounded by one five-star hotel, two fourstar hotels, and one three-star hotel.

Also in the works is a USD1 billion tourism resort in the southern port city of Salalah, whose first phase is expected to be ready this year, and will consist of three upscale five-star and four-star hotels as well as light residential and commercial components.

Travel Trade Weekly: What are your expectations and plans for the remainder of the year?

Navaid Tehseen: Eastin Residences Muscat is a newly-opened property and the first Eastinbranded property in the Middle East. So far, we have received very affirmative feedback from our guests, who come from across the globe.

We are expecting very positive business growth during the last quarter. Lots of reservations have already been secured and by looking at the trend, we will close very good and affirmative figures.

We are targeting the leisure business, since it is our high end market and the volume of tourism [from this segment] has increased drastically, and we are in the process of tying up with AlMouj Golf course for guest room package options.

16

NEWS & EVENTS

Dubai International Debuts New Way-Finding System A new alpha-numeric system for gate numbering and wayfinding has been installed at Dubai International, making navigating through the world’s fourth busiest airport easier than ever.

Dubai Airports, airlines, ground handling, and control agencies operating at Dubai International, have all applied the new system across all airport signage and computer support systems, thus the change has impacted everything from flight information display screens to boarding cards and airport reservation systems.

“Essentially we have looked at this through the eyes of our customers to help them find their flights with ease and convenience,” Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports, commented, noting that research has shown that passengers find an alpha-numeric system a far easier way to navigate through the airport and locate their boarding gate.

While all three terminals of the airport retain their current numbering, all concourses and departure gates have been renamed and, in total, over 1,500 signs have been changed.

The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia to Bring Together Food and Hospitality More than 100 companies from 24 countries representing various supply chains of the hospitality sector across the Middle East and beyond, will be participating at the inaugural The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia, presenting food and hospitality, to be held in Jeddah between November 17 - 19.

The three-day show, being organised at the Jeddah Center for Forums & Events, will bring together leading regional and international manufacturers and suppliers from the hospitality, catering, food and beverage, and related industries, covering over 8,500m2 of space with over 5,000 invited buyers, live gourmet food demonstrations, seminars, and a dedicated hotel summit.

Held under the patronage of H.R.H. Sultan Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, chairman, Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia is organised by MICE Arabia Group and co-organised by dmg :: events.

EVENTS The Luxury Travel Fair London, UK, November 1 – 4, 2012 (www.luxurytravelfair.com) A collection of the finest and most unique travel experiences from around the world will be brought together for the seventh year running.

The Hotel Show – Saudi Arabia Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, November 17– 19, 2012 (www.thehotelshowsaudiarabia.com) A full spectrum hospitality and supplies event for the region, bringing leading manufacturers and qualified buyers for the hospitality, catering, and food and beverage industries together.

World Travel Market (WTM) London, UK, November 5 – 8, 2012 (www.wtmlondon.com) A must-attend business-to-business event presenting a diverse range of destinations and industry sectors.

EIBTM Barcelona, Spain, November 27 – 29, 2012 (www.eibtm.com) A leading global event for the meetings, incentives, events, and business travel industry, held in a vibrant business and tourism destination.

PURE Life Experiences Marrakech, Morocco, November 12 –15, 2012 (www.purelifeexperiences.com) A premier travel trade exhibition serving one of the hottest high-end travel sectors at the moment; experiential travel.

India International Travel Mart Hyderabad Hyderabad, India, November 30 – December 2, 2012 (www.iitmindia.com) India’s premier exhibition for travel, tourism, hospitality, leisure and other related sectors.

International Golf Travel Market Algarve, Portugal, November 12 –15, 2012 (www.igtm.co.uk) The premier event for the golf travel industry with over 600 golf tourism suppliers and 350 pre-qualified buyers.

Food & Hotel Oman Muscat, Oman, December 3 – 5, 2012 (www.foodandhoteloman.com) Formerly known as Food Expo, the event has been re-branded to reflect the emerging hospitality and tourism market in the Sultanate and the region.

27 OCTOBER 2012