Travel Trade Weekly Issue 208 by T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD

02 NOVEMBER 2013

ISSUE 208

Saraya Bandar Jissah: Second Phase to Commence

The first phase of construction on Muscat’s newest integrated tourism complex is nearing completion.

The new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC) has officially opened its doors after welcoming the first commercial flight from Budapest, Hungary.

BEST WESTERN PREMIER Debuts in Oman Best Western International celebrated the opening of the four-star BEST WESTERN PREMIER Muscat, marking the brand’s entry into the Sultanate.

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

02 03 09 11 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Al Maktoum International Opens

MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel COPY EDITOR Mario Hajiloizis SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba

Nakheel Reports USD482 Million Profit Nakheel has recorded a net profit of AED1.77 billion (USD482 million) in the first nine months of the year, marking a 58 percent increase over the corresponding period in 2012.

JOURNALIST Maria Kazeli PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian 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

01/11/2013 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar

COUNTRY

CURRENCY

1USD=

UAE (AED)

Dirham

3.67

Egypt (EGP)

Pound

6.89

Saudi Arabia (SAR)

Riyal

3.75

Lebanon (LBP)

Pound

1,507.50

Bahrain (BHD)

Dinar

0.37

Jordan (JOD)

Dinar

0.71

Syria (SYP)

Pound

138.73

Kuwait (KWD)

Dinar

0.28

Qatar (QAR)

Riyal

3.64

Oman (OMR)

Rial

0.38

Tunisia (TND)

Dinar

1.65

Morocco (MAD)

Dirham

8.25

Iran (IRR)

Riyal

24,980.00

Yemen (YER)

Rial

214.86

Algeria (DZD)

Dinar

81.37

Libya (LYD)

Dinar

1.23

ear-to-date revenues stood at AED6.83 billion (USD1.86 billion), up 50 percent, reflecting the continued growth and strengthening of the real estate market in Dubai and demonstrating the return of investor confidence and trust in Nakheel and its projects. The coming months continue to be a hive of activity for Nakheel, with various customer hand overs and on-going construction of an

increasing number of residential and retail projects. As of 30 September, the company’s new development pipeline included almost 2,800 new units at an estimated sales value of AED8.5 billion (USD2.31 billion); approximately 334,450m2 net leasable retail space with an estimated investment of AED6 billion (USD1.63 billion) and more than 1,200 rooms in the hospitality sector with an approximate investment of AED1.5 billion (USD408.37 million).

Etihad Airways: Passenger Revenue Exceeds USD1 Billion Driven by solid demand growth and strong contribution from its codeshare and equity alliance partners, Etihad Airways’ revenue from passenger services reached USD1.03 billion in the third quarter (Q3) of the year, representing a 10 percent year-on-year increase and exceeding the USD1 billion mark for the first time in the airline’s history. During the three-month period, the carrier’s total revenue rose 11 percent to USD1.4 billion, while network-wide passenger load factors reached 81 percent and cargo revenue improved 39 percent to USD244 million. Revenue from codeshare and equity alliance partnerships totalled USD247 million, up 36 percent, accounting for 23 percent of total Q3 passenger revenue, while passenger numbers grew 11 percent to 3.06 million. Remarking on the airline’s resilience, James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, highlighted that the positive figures occurred in a climate of increasing capacity and ongoing price competition. It also compensated for reduced travel during the Holy Month of Ramadan, which fell across the traditional peak travel months of July and August.

Etihad Airways

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WEEKLY NEWS Sharm El Sheikh: Over 80,000 Passengers in Six Days

Sharm El Sheikh International Airport Terminal 1

OCEC Promotes Oman in Europe AEG Ogden, the operator of the upcoming Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC), together with the Sultanate’s Ministry of Tourism have undertaken the first in a series of exclusive client events to build awareness of the venue and Oman. Following the successful showcasing of OCEC at global industry tradeshows, the delegation headed to Europe to promote the venue and Oman in Paris, Geneva, Brussels and London, where more than 80 clients, with the potential to bring some 65,000 convention delegates to the Sultanate, attended the presentations. “Many of these decision makers are looking for something a little different and unique to help ‘globalise’ their conventions and at the same time, grow their membership. Oman ticks both of those boxes,” stated Salim Al Mamari, director general, tourism development, Ministry of Tourism, Oman, adding that with OCEC scheduled for completion by 2016, the ministry, along with the operator, is working towards securing prestigious international events. OCEC Promotional Event

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Sharm El Sheikh International Airport handled over 80,000 passengers in six days in mid-October, as the airport is preparing to cater to 18 million travellers per annum. Based on the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s figures, over the six-day period, the airport received 382 flights carrying 42,939 visitors while 380 flights departed with 40,800 tourists, representing a substantial leap in traffic volumes. Abdel-Aziz Fadel, minister of civil aviation, Egypt, has recently reviewed the airport’s expansion projects, which also include the development of the USD457 million new terminal with a capacity of 10 million passengers bringing total capacity to 18 million travellers per annum. “All Egyptian airports are safe and function normally and all flights are being operated according to schedule both in departure and arrival,” assured Fadel, adding that in order to ensure a pleasant passenger experience, all airports apply the highest international security measures and are secured in coordination with the concerned government bodies.

WEEKLY NEWS

Midfield Terminal Building Hits Major Milestone

Midfield Terminal Complex Rendering

Bahrain: Over 13,000 Passengers during Hajj Season Bahrain International Airport (BIA) recorded a robust increase in passenger traffic during this year’s Eid Al Adha and Hajj season, having welcomed 13,752 pilgrims between October 1 - 20. While thousands of local pilgrims used the airport, demand was also strong from transit travellers celebrating this special time of the year away from their home countries. Mohamed Thamir Al Kaabi, vice president, airport operations, Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), extended his appreciation to all employees of the airport for their hard work in facilitating the increased traffic during one of the busiest times of the year and he also thanked all concerned parties and authorities involved for their active support. As the authority responsible for operating and managing BIA, BAC is responsible for elevating the airport’s infrastructure and services.

Abu Dhabi Airports celebrated the placement of the first buttress for the main structural steel arches of the Midfield Terminal Building (MTB), seven days ahead of schedule, keeping the project on track for completion in 2017. H.E. Ali Majed Al Mansoori, chairman, Abu Dhabi Airports, described this milestone as a significant step along the path of developing world-class airport infrastructure for Abu Dhabi. “We are truly proud of hitting this important milestone ahead of schedule as it is a clear indicator of Abu Dhabi Airport’s unwavering commitment to delivering the Midfield Terminal Building on time and on budget,” commented Tony Dougles, CEO, Abu Dhabi Airports, highlighting that the project is expected to be inaugurated on July 7, 2017. Destined to become the gateway to Abu Dhabi and the future home of Etihad Airways, MTB, the key component of the new Midfield Terminal Complex, is expected to cater to 30 million passengers per year.

International Tourism Boosted by Europe’s Strong Performance Demand for international tourism remained strong throughout the first eight months of the year, according to the latest World Tourism Barometer released by World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Between January and August, the number of international tourists worldwide grew by five percent to reach a record 747 million worldwide, driven by strong results in Europe, Asia and the Pacific, and Middle East, which rebounded by seven percent after two years of decline. Europe benefited the most from the growth of tourism in the first eight months of the year, with an estimated 20 million more arrivals in the region. Central and Eastern Europe (up seven percent) and Southern and Mediterranean Europe (up six percent) performed particularly well. “While global economic growth is in low gear, international tourism continues to produce above average results in most world regions, offering vital opportunities for employment and local economies,” remarked Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO.

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WEEKLY NEWS

Exclusive Tours at Hamad International Airport

Hamad International Airport

Delegates of Airports Council International’s upcoming Airport Exchange 2013 will have the privilege to get a glimpse into Qatar’s new Hamad International Airport (HIA) ahead of its much anticipated opening in 2014. Access to the tours is exclusively available to participants of the event, which will run between November 11 - 13 at Qatar National Convention Centre in Doha, at no extra cost. Delegates will be offered seven exclusive tours, highlighting the 590,000m2 facility’s unique features. Set against the edge of the Arabian Gulf on a partially reclaimed land, HIA has been designed to cater to 30 million passengers with its column free check-in hall spanning 25,000m2 and featuring 138 counters. Other highlights of the airport include 28,000m2 of retails area, and two 100room luxury transit hotels. Hotel guests, as well as Qatar Airways’ first class and business class passengers, will enjoy access to abundant resort facilities, including two squash courts, a 25m swimming pool, and a five-star spa.

Saraya Bandar Jissah: Second Phase to Commence The first phase of construction on Muscat’s newest integrated tourism complex is nearing completion. Having commenced in August 2012, the initial stage of the project entailed shaping the ground into the masterplan mould, and preparing the ground for construction, while the second phase will see the major infrastructure tender package awarded and construction progress to start on site in parallel with the construction of the first hotel, as Bassam Talhoumi, vice president, technical services, Saraya Bandar Jissah, revealed. Following the tender announcement for the infrastructure package, to be made imminently, Saraya Bandar Jissah will float the construction tender for the second boutique hotel on site, a five-star 106 key hotel resembling an old Omani village.

Saraya Bandar Jissah

02 NOVEMBER 2013

WEEKLY NEWS Yas Marina Transforms and Reopens Entertainment District

Yas Marina Promenade

Dubai among the Top 50 Most Reputable Cities Dubai’s growing global significance has been reaffirmed by the Reputation Institute’s 2013 City RepTrak Study, which placed it among the world’s top 50 most reputable destinations, along Sydney, Toronto, Stockholm, Vienna, and Venice, which occupied the first five places. The report, which surveyed more than 22,000 people from the Group of Eight countries, listed the cities based on levels of trust, esteem, admiration and respect, as well as perception regarding 13 attributes. As Fernando Prado, managing partner, Spain and Latin America, Reputation Institute, noted, the study results confirm the link between city reputation and economic outcomes. “People have images of a city on their mind when they are deciding to go on a holiday there, to live or work there, or to buy products originated there. Our modelling demonstrates that a city that knows how to effectively manage its reputation can attract more tourists, greater investment or a bigger influx of talent,” elaborated Prado.

02 NOVEMBER 2013

Yas Marina, operated and managed by Camper & Nicholsons Marinas, announced the official opening of its expanded dining and entertainment district comprising of seven new licensed restaurant outlets and facilities. The new Yas Marina is now due to host numerous events and activities leading up to Abu Dhabi’s 2013 Race Week. Along with the new dining and entertainment options, the new development caters to a variety of other visitor interests, offering sailing and nautical apparel and selling new and used high quality performance boats. “With the growing number of visitors each year, we are committed to bringing the best-in-class outlets and facilities to make the district more enjoyable for our guests, particularly the local community. We believe the addition of some new casual licensed and affordable dining options, combined with some fantastic lounge concepts will be a great addition to Abu Dhabi’s dining and entertainment options, whilst complimenting what is already on offer,” said Cedric Le Rest, general manager, Yas Marina.

WEEKLY NEWS Leading Cruise Lines Sign up for Seatrade Middle East Costa Cruises, hailed as the first cruise line to launch regular cruising in the Middle East back in 2006, has become the 10th major cruise line to join the upcoming Seatrade Middle East Cruise Forum. Along with the executives of Azamara Club Cruises; Crystal Cruises, Carnival Cruise Lines UK; Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Silversea Cruises, TUI Cruises, and The World, Dario Rustico, director of sales and marketing, Central Europe, Africa, Middle East and India, Costa Cruises, will spend several days in Abu Dhabi between December 9 - 11, discussing the development of cruising in the Middle East. “The UAE and the region is a firm fixture in our winter deployment and we are planning to invest more to develop the local source market,” disclosed Rustico, further revealing that during the 2013/2014 season, the company will deploy two ships in the region, offering cruises calling at Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat and Khasab, and Costa Cruises already plans to bring a larger ship to the region for the following season. Costa Deliziosa

Dubai to be Transformed into a Smart City H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, has announced the launch of a new project aimed at turning Dubai into a smart city boasting open access to highspeed wireless Internet in public areas and the use of near field communication to better serve today’s tech-savvy public. According to Al Maktoum, the new integrated high-tech approach will utilise the latest in technology allowing the city to provide faster services and up-to-date information to all citizens and visitors. The initiatives will offer connected users information on weather, traffic, entertainment, tourism, flights, dining, emergency services and much more, while businessmen and investors will benefit from open access to smart services provided by ports, customs and bourses. Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, crown prince of Dubai, will oversee the implementation of the project.

02 NOVEMBER 2013

Accommodation

BEST WESTERN PREMIER Debuts in Oman

BEST WESTERN PREMIER Muscat

Best Western International has celebrated the grand opening of the four-star BEST WESTERN PREMIER Muscat, marking the brand’s entry into the Sultanate. Strategically located in the Al Khuwair district of the capital city, in close proximity to the embassy and ministry district, the 10-storey hotel embodies all the unique highlights of the brand and features 203 rooms, an allday dining restaurant, five-meeting rooms, and guests can also take advantage of the B fit gym and the hotel’s indoor swimming pool, called The Splash.

Accor Middle East: 20 New Hotels by 2015 Accor continues its fast-paced expansion in the Middle East with 20 new properties expected to open by 2015. The hospitality company plans to launch a further eight properties in UAE by the end of 2014, Christophe Landais, managing director, Accor Middle East, revealed, saying that these projects form part of the group’s regional expansion drive which aims to bring Accor’s Middle East portfolio to 81 hotels with over 19,000 units. “We are also consistently evolving brand specific offerings, such as the recently launched initiative by the ibis family called the IBIS BUSINESS subscriber card. Catering to the needs of frequent business travellers, this new subscription programme provides a unique offering for the economy segment though numerous advantages,” added Landais, further informing that in a bid to increase direct sales and enhance the company’s online presence, Accor will launch the Arabic version of its website in December.

Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa

02 NOVEMBER 2013

WEEKLY NEWS

IHG to Add Seven Hotels in the UAE InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) plans to add seven hotels to its UAE network which already includes 18 properties. Pascal Gauvin, chief operating officer, India, Middle East and Africa, IHG, described the UAE as the company’s second largest market after Saudi Arabia. “In 2014, we will open InterContinental Dubai Marina, which will consist of 132 hotel rooms, and the 196-key InterContinental Residential Suites. Looking further ahead, our UAE pipeline will include two more InterContinental hotels, three Staybridge Suites properties and the UAE’s first Crowne Plaza Resort, which also will be our first property in Ras Al Khaimah,” revealed Gauvin.

WEEKLY NEWS

Accommodation

Rotana: Two UAE Openings for 2014 Rotana Hotel Management Corporation continues to strengthen its footprint in the UAE with two more properties expected to open under its Rayhaan by Rotana and Arjaan by Rotana brands in 2014. The company, which currently operates 32 properties in the UAE, is moving forward with its development plans for the two new hotels, informed Vicky Varfis, corporate vice president, sales and revenue, Rotana Hotel Management Corporation. “Located in the relaxed settings of the garden city of the Gulf, Hili Rayhaan by Rotana Al Ain will offer 200 luxurious rooms and suites, restaurants, state-of-the-art business services and recreational facilities,” said Varfis. “Situated within the Capital Centre development in Abu Dhabi, Capital Centre Arjaan by Rotana will offer 259 spacious rooms and suites, a wide variety of restaurants and a state-of-theart fitness centre. Capital Centre will feature a commercial zone, a marina, bustling outdoor cafes, retail outlets, restaurants and premier residences,” she added.

Hili Rayhaan by Rotana Al Ain

The Meydan Hotel Gears up for Racing Season Preparations are already underway at The Meydan Hotel for this year’s upcoming horse racing season which is once again expected to draw many thousands of visitors to Dubai. “The racing season at The Meydan Hotel commences in November, and our rooms offer breathtaking views over the race track, home to the Dubai World Cup, the richest horse race in the world, held in March every year,” pinpointed Craig Senior, head of sales and marketing, Meydan Hotels & Hospitality, adding that during the racing season, which runs between November and March, guests staying at the property can watch the race horses train each morning from the privacy and luxury of their own private balcony. “We will be targeting the corporate traveller and regional groups in the winter months,” informed Senior, further noting that the company continues to launch many new facilities and exciting activities at both The Meydan Hotel as well as Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa.

02 NOVEMBER 2013

Air

Emirates to Fly 70 Million Passengers in 2020 Preparing to fly 70 million passengers in 2020, Emirates, together with its partners in Dubai, are progressing on plans to ensure the right infrastructure is in place to support and capitalise on this growth. This was revealed by Tim Clark, president, Emirates, on October 22 at a presentation to delegates of Bureau International des Expositions, who were visiting the UAE to make their final decision on the host for the World Expo 2020, where Dubai is a candidate city. By 2020 the carrier aims to have a total of 250 aircraft which will make it the biggest airline in the world. Emirates

02 NOVEMBER 2013

WEEKLY NEWS

Al Maktoum International Opens The new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC) has officially opened its doors after welcoming the first commercial flight from Budapest, Hungary. With flight W6 2497 landing in Dubai on October 27, Wizz Air became the first airline to launch passenger operations to DWC, and is being followed by Jazeera Airways and Gulf Air. Inaugurating the airport, which boasts capacity for up to seven million passengers per annum, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman, Dubai Airports, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Al Maktoum International at DWC will play a vital role in the future development of Dubai as a centre for trade, commerce, transport and logistics and tourism. [...] The opening of this facility signals the historic beginning of a long-term plan to build the largest airport in the world to accommodate the tremendous passenger growth and contribute to the continued economic and social development of Dubai.â&#x20AC;?

WEEKLY NEWS

Air

Mahan Air Renovates Aircraft Seats In a bid to improve customer satisfaction, Iran-based Mahan Air has renovated, modernised and replaced all the seats on all types of its Airbus A300-600 aircraft with new technology-equipped seating. According to the airline’s technical and engineering department, by enlarging the business class area and installing bed seats, passengers are now able to feel more comfortable during their flight. These new and modern chairs are made of classy and durable materials by an authorised company in Italy, while they have been tested many times according to standards. The airline’s statement underlines that the price of each modern business class seat is equivalent to a Mercedes car. Additionally aside from the seats, the inside of the cabin, its colour, equipment, carpets, and toilet facilities have all been renovated. Mahan Air, whose name is taken from the historical Iranian city of Mahan, was established in 1991 and began operations in June 1992 as Iran’s first private airline. It operates scheduled domestic services and international flights to the Far East, Middle East, Central Asia, and Europe.

Gulf Air Boosts Flights to Riyadh Gulf Air has introduced seven additional services to its existing schedule to Riyadh in order to meet growing passenger demand. As of October 27 the airline operates one extra frequency per day from Bahrain to the Saudi capital, increasing the number of weekly flights between the two destinations by seven, from 21 to 28. The introduction of extra flights between Riyadh and Bahrain emphasises the importance the carrier attaches to Saudi Arabia, one of its key markets, and its business strategy to concentrate on high-demand point-to-point routes to ensure customers are served effectively and efficiently, elaborated Maher Salman Al Musallam, acting CEO, Gulf Air. “The departure and arrival times of the additional flights have been scheduled specifically to benefit international and regional business travellers. Customers from Riyadh now have over 200 weekly connections in less than three hours via Bahrain,” Al Musallam added. Gulf Air

UIA Upgrades Kiev Dubai - Kiev

Ukraine International Airlines

For the winter period, Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) presented a new schedule on the Kiev – Dubai return route by increasing frequency and operating flights on two modern Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft. “By making Kiev – Dubai service double-daily, operating flights on the best UIA aircraft and offering our passengers the most beneficial loyalty programme, UIA makes every effort to ensure those preferring warmer climates get the best cost/ quality ratio in winter. We hope our clients will appreciate the unique UIA product and will enjoy flying with the leading Ukrainian carrier,” stated Sergey Fomenko, executive vice president, commerce, UIA. Jointly with partner airlines, UIA provides passengers with an opportunity to issue a single ticket from Kiev and the cities of Ukraine via Dubai to Cairo, Egypt; Baghdad and Basra, Iraq; Tunis, Tunisia; Manama, Bahrain; Tehran, Iran; and many more other international destinations. Panorama Club – UIA’s frequent flyer loyalty programme – members are entitled to increased baggage and hand luggage allowance. Additionally, Panorama Club Premium card holders enjoy extra privileges at the airport.

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WEEKLY NEWS

Air

Etihad Cargo and Singapore Airlines Cargo Exchange Capacity

Singapore Airlines

Aegean Airlines and EGYPTAIR Partner Star Alliance members, Aegean Airlines and EGYPTAIR have signed a new codeshare agreement further strengthening the Egyptian carrier’s global network and presence in Greece. In terms of the partnership, which came into effect on October 27, EGYPTAIR customers enjoy enhanced travel options between the two countries and to destinations, such as Thessaloniki, Rhodes, Heraklion and Chania, while the Greek carrier’s passengers will benefit from services between Cairo and Athens as well as Alexandria and Athens. “Signing this important agreement with Aegean Airlines aims mainly at encouraging the incoming tourism traffic from Europe into Egypt’s top leisure destinations, in addition to operating new routes and increasing frequencies on a number of routes with increasing load factors in order to [boost] traffic via Cairo Airport, the northern gateway to the Middle East and Africa,” commented Hossam Kamal, CEO, EGYPTAIR HOLDING, adding that the cooperation is also set to enhance traffic volumes on the carrier’s domestic routes.

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Etihad Cargo and Singapore Airlines Cargo agreed to exchange confirmed cargo capacity on services operated by both carriers from Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow and Frankfurt. The deal enables the UAE-based company to offer capacity to Singapore Airlines Cargo on one of its weekly freighter services from Abu Dhabi to Frankfurt, in addition to access to its cargo network to the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. “This year we have strengthened our cargo operations by expanding the freighter fleet, launching new destinations, increasing frequencies, and by working with partner carriers such as Singapore Airlines Cargo. We look forward to working with Singapore Airlines Cargo to further enhance cargo access and network connectivity for our respective customers,” said David Kerr, vice president, cargo, Etihad Airways.

Monarch Airlines Announces Network Expansion UK-based Monarch Airlines has announced an expansion of its route network for summer 2014, with a number of new destinations operating for the first time, while others are to be served from more airports. A brand new destination, Enfidha, Tunisia, will be introduced twice a week from both Manchester and London Gatwick, whereas Agadir becomes Monarch Airlines’ first Moroccan destination also with two weekly services from the same airports. Additionally, Monarch Airlines will operate a twice weekly flight to Hurghada from Birmingham, London Gatwick and Manchester from May 2, 2014. “We are delighted to be able to offer this further expansion of our route network,” said Kevin George, managing director, Monarch Airlines, adding that the new destinations offer a wider range of quality, service, and value, and will be popular amongst the lowcost carrier’s passengers.

Monarch Airlines

WEEKLY NEWS

International

The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin Officially Launched The newest luxury hotel in Northeast China, The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin, opened its doors officially to bring unparalleled service and accommodation to the Asian city. The property featuring 277 luxurious art deco guestrooms and 53 suites, sits at the historical heart of the former British concession and modern downtown business district by the Haihe River, while its architectural inspiration is taken from the neo-classical style of the early 20th century with stately hotel rooms arranged around an expansive courtyard. “The opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin in one of China’s most strategically important cities reflects our desire to meet the growing Chinese appetite for international luxury hospitality experiences,” said Herve Humler, president, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, adding that the property represents a major new destination opportunity that will accelerate the recognition by the luxury Chinese guests of the company’s service commitment to create memorable experiences that stay with guests for life. The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin is 30 minutes from Tianjin Binhai International Airport and just 30 minutes from China’s capital, Beijing, by high speed train. The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin

Holiday Inn Monclova Arrives in Mexico InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Auteles Kalionchiz announced the opening of Holiday Inn Monclova, the first hotel of the brand in Coahuila and the fifth IHG property for the state. Auteles Kalionchiz invested USD10 million in the project which is strategically located on Blvd. Harold R. Pape, the main city avenue, while it is just eight minutes away from the industrial zone and very close to key tourist attractions. All 128 rooms have views to the pool, gardens or the city, whereas the presidential suite has a living-room, hot tub and a meeting room for eight people.

Starwood Expands Presence in Thailand Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide’s world-renowned Sheraton brand has expanded its footprint in Thailand with the opening of Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas in Prachuap Khirikhan, a province famed for its sandy coastline and popular resort towns of Hua Hin and Pranburi. The converted and rebranded 55-villa project is owned by Honor Business Company, a Bangkok-based property development firm that also owns the 240-room Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa. A three-hour drive from Bangkok, Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas boasts a prime beachfront location, approximately 22km south of Hua Hin, the luxury resort destination frequented by Thai royalty. Guests can choose between one-bedroom pool villas, pool villa suites with an additional living room, and duplex pool villa suites with a ground-floor living room and bedroom on the first floor, while for larger groups, the hotel also offers the Pranburi two-bedroom pool villa suite. The property also provides a shuttle service to Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa should guests wish to utilise the resort’s existing facilities, including the Shine Spa for Sheraton and its several restaurants.

Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas

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WHO'S MOVED

Torsten Obermann

Fares Yactine Fares Yactine has assumed the position of general manager at Sofitel Al Khobar The Corniche. Building on his 13 years of hospitality experience throughout the Middle East region, Yactine will oversee the day-to-day operations of the luxury property. Yactine has moved to Saudi

Arabia from Bahrain where he previously held the position of hotel manager at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa for over two years. Prior to joining Sofitel Luxury Hotels, Yactine gained invaluable experience working in various destinations such as Spain, Lebanon and Bahrain.

Torsten Obermann has been officially promoted to general manager at JA Oasis Beach Tower. Obermann has previously worked with a host of leading international brands from within the industry, including Accor’s Mercure brand in Germany, Crowne Plaza and Mar-

Russel Storey Russel Storey has taken on the position of general manager at Jordan Valley Marriott Dead Sea Resort & Spa. He joined Marriott International in 1998 as food and beverage manager and after successfully holding the same position at various properties he was promoted to director of operations at Glasgow Marriott Hotel in 2002. He accepted his first assignment in the Middle East in 2005 to work as director of

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operations at Jordan Valley Marriott Dead Sea Resort & Spa, before moving to Egypt in 2007 to work in the same role at Renaissance Golden View Beach Resort, Sharm El Sheikh. Storey took on his first general manager position in 2009 at Tudor Park Marriott Country Club, Maidstone, UK.

Storey joined Marriott International in 1998

riott in the US, and The Dolder Grand in Switzerland. He has been with JA Resorts & Hotels for four years working in a variety of positions, such as executive assistant manager of rooms at JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort before joining JA Oasis Beach Tower as resident manager in 2012.

David Doctor David Doctor has been named vice president for Western Europe, Middle East and Asia at Amadeus. In his new role, he will spearhead the company’s commercial activities in Western Europe as well as in Middle East and Africa. Doctor joined Amadeus in 1999 as marketing manager for Western Europe and was promoted to director of the same region in 2003. Since 2004, he has held various po-

sitions, including director of airline distribution and lowcost carriers, and director of airline marketing and sales. Doctor is replacing Angel Gallego, who will continue to serve the company as head of the Asia and Pacific region, and will be based in Amadeus IT Group’s global headquarters in Madrid.

Doctor joined Amadeus in 1999 as marketing manager for Western Europe

TRAVEL TALK

travel talk is your space

Pascal Gauvin

David Thomson

Chief operating officer, India, Middle East and Africa, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG).

Chief operating officer, JA Resorts & Hotels.

“IHG has a long and successful history operating in the Middle East, where we were the first international hotel company in the region – entering more than 50 years ago with the InterContinental brand when we opened Phoenicia Beirut in Lebanon in 1961. Today we are the biggest international hotel company in the Middle East overall, with 76 hotels and 20,000 rooms operating under five brands across 12 countries.”

“We have had a great response over the last year and despite the summer months being a little quieter as always, we had a strong start to the year and are looking healthy for the remaining quarter. We were delighted to open JA Ocean View Hotel in January this year and the property has experienced an average occupancy of 82 percent and has received an award at the 2013 World Travel Awards.”

Svetozar Kujic Marketing and communications manager, TI’ME Hotels Management.

“TI’ME Hotels Management has been working on development plans across the region, which includes a recent announcement on our expansion into Qatar. Our plan is to expand further across the GCC and Levant, we have various projects in the pipeline which will be announced shortly. We have also launched a new website, mobile booking engine, a dedicated 100 percent Arabic language booking engine, as well as three loyalty programmes.”

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

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AGENT'S CORNER

AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Adnan Hafeez POSITION: Director, business development

COMPANY: Total Holidays LOCATION: Dubai WEB: www.tholidays.com

Who are you? My name is Adnan Hafeez and I am the director of business development at Total Holidays. Total Holidays is the only dedicated global wholesale travel company with a network of 16 offices and sales points in 14 countries worldwide. The company was established in 2007 and has grown drastically as we have recently opened our Lebanon office. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? Working in the travel industry is not a kind of job that everyone can fulfil as you need to be fully dedicated at what you do. [...] My favourite thing about this industry is that you get to learn about new things everyday as you interact with clients/agents from different demographic backgrounds. When is the best time to visit UAE? The best time to visit UAE is during Eid, Christmas or New Year holidays as most of the hotels do have great deals during these festive seasons that someone can enjoy to the extreme and can ensure they really have a quality time spent together. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? I would love to travel to Australia as it is one of my dream destinations. I am so fond of that place that I collect posters and pictures and stick them on my wall at home. Why should people come to you for travel advice? We, here at Total Holidays, provide detailed information to our clients and also recommend them places and hotels where they should visit and stay. We also provide them with personalised service and also ensure that they have a pleasant stay. They can reach our staff at any time of the day in case they come across any issue and we are always there to support and assist our clients in all ways that we can.

02 NOVEMBER 2013

Al-Futtaim Travel Joins ATPI Group Al-Futtaim Travel has officially partnered with the fast-growing multi-national network of independent global travel management company, ATPI Group. The partnership is in line with the group’s strategy to vastly expand its overall presence and services in the UAE and the Gulf region in general, as Graham Ramsey, chief operating officer, ATPI Group, noted. “Al-Futtaim Travel and the ATPI Group share many of the same values and we see that there is a strong cultural fit between our organisations,” added Ramsey. William Horsley, general manager, Al-Futtaim Travel, described ATPI Group as a natural partner of choice to work with, further

suggesting that the cooperation enables the company to leverage its expertise in the UAE and across the Gulf. “The ATPI Group’s network will allow our collective clients to benefit from the expertise and industry insight of one of the biggest key players in travel management,” concluded Horsley.

William Horsley

TRAVEL CHANNELS UNESCO and UNWTO Experts Urge Visa Reforms

Tourism and heritage experts called for more effective visa systems to support tourism development at the UNESCO/ UNWTO Silk Road Heritage Corridors Tourism Strategy Workshop, held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, which has been organised to define a tourism management roadmap.

T Taleb Rifai

wo UNESCO Silk Road Heritage Corridors crossing China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have been highlighted to focus the roadmaps on. Participants agreed that countries must work towards a single Silk Road visa if the potential for tourism growth along the proposed corridors is to be fully realised, stressing that complicated visa systems, inefficient application processes and high fees hinder the development of the Silk Road as a globally renowned network of tourism destinations. Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO, said, “The Silk Road Heritage Corridors project presents an excellent opportunity for Kazakhstan, and for other participating countries, to advance tourism development in a way that showcases and preserves its outstanding cultural and natural treasures.”

Saudi Arabia: Heritage Towns Draw Huge Crowds The heritage villages and towns across Riyadh have witnessed remarkable turnout of tourists during this year’s Eid Al Adha and Hajj seasons, according to the Saudi Commission of Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA). Today, Ghat is one of the most important tourist destinations in the region, boasting a number of heritage buildings, the Al-Ghat Museum, which opened earlier this year, a heritage souk that was recently rehabilitated and the Al Ghat Amara Palace that was recently converted into a museum. In Eshaiger, a number of historic buildings have been restored and the town has ultimately turned into a tourist site within the span of the five years. The Shagra historic centre continues to attract a large number of visitors after the bulk of its heritage area has been restored, while in Al Majm’a Heritage Town a number of avenues received a facelift. SCTA has also begun preparations for the rehabilitation of Alga Town in Al Zulfi.

The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management Partners with Italian University The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management (EAHM), part of Jumeirah Group, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with LUISS Guido Carli University, in Italy. The MoU, which was signed during the UAE – Italy Business Forum, offers study-abroad opportunities for students as well as faculty exchanges between the two universities. Commenting on the partnership, Ron Hilvert, managing director, EAHM, said, “With Dubai’s growth in the hospitality and tourism sector, this MoU will enable students from LUISS University to experience all the dynamism that Dubai has to offer.” EAHM, hailed as one of the world’s leading hospitality business management schools, provides university-level hospitality business education and offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees designed to develop the hospitality leadRon Hilvert (left) and Carmela Decaro, professor, ers of the future. LUISS Guido Carli University

02 NOVEMBER 2013

RENDEZVOUS

Q & A with Aurelio Giraudo The Regency Hotel, Kuwait, plans to keep ahead of escalating competition in the region and internationally. Here Aurelio Giraudo, general manager, The Regency Hotel, Kuwait, reveals how the property is going about this mission.

Travel Trade Weekly: In February, the hotel announced a new phase of enhancements including an Italian restaurant, a gourmet shop, butler services, Bulgari amenities in all guestrooms, and an expanded fitness studio. How have these additions been received by the guests so far? Aurelio Giraudo: In consolidating its position as the ‘Best Luxury Hotel in Kuwait” and “Best Conference Venue in Kuwait” [at the] World Travel Awards, Dubai, in May, The Regency Hotel, Kuwait, has embarked on expanding its range of outlets and services. The reaction to all our innovations has been overwhelmingly positive and in many cases the hotel is viewed as a groundbreaking pioneer of new service levels that are rapidly developing in Kuwait. It is important that we continue to lead the market and continue to drive creativity and difference. It is in this way that The Regency Hotel, Kuwait wins and is recognised and a leader as opposed to a follower. Travel Trade Weekly: What recent and upcoming news, developments, and expansions would you like to share with us? Aurelio Giraudo: Two very important areas of our continued growth are actually away from the hotel itself, but involve our provision of catering at the Pearl and Derwaza Lounges at Kuwait International Airport. Serving up to 2,000 customers per day, the lounges are an additional string to the bow of service excellence supplied by The Regency Hotel, Kuwait. Secondly, we have initiated the continued development of the awareness of the quality supplied by The Regency Hotel, Kuwait

02 NOVEMBER 2013

Aurelio Giraudo general manager, The Regency Hotel, Kuwait

ures of 2012. We predict a strong emergence from the lower summer season into a very busy final four months in all segments of the business. Commercially, we are developing strongly and forecast significant growth over 2012, which at the time was a ‘very good year’. Travel Trade Weekly: Boasting Kuwait’s largest hotel-based meeting facilities, what is in the hotel’s event calendar for the remaining months of the year as well as 2014?

through launching an outside catering service to Kuwait. Catering for private dinners or huge embassy functions, The Regency Hotel, Kuwait has recently looked after prestigious events from 10 – 2,000 guests and through maintaining a previously unavailable high level of five-star catering and service delivery, the team has introduced new levels to Kuwait and, as a result, has seen demand triple in the last six months. Travel Trade Weekly: How has business been so far this year following what you described was ‘a very good year in 2012’ and what are your predictions for the remaining months of the year? Aurelio Giraudo: This year is proving to be an excellent year with results in rooms, banqueting, food and beverage, and outside catering far ahead of the year to date fig-

Aurelio Giraudo: The Regency Hotel, Kuwait is synonymous with the delivery of a high standard in all its conference and banqueting events and as the owner of the most complete stand-alone convention centre, we have a history of success in this area. It would be inappropriate to single out individual events, but we have, [this year], been the proud host of a number of very high profile government conferences as well as being the host hotel of pan-global pharmaceutical conferences, automotive launches, and many series of regional GCC training events for household names. We hope, and see no reason to doubt, that it will continue for the remainder of this year and beyond as we continue to offer high service levels, an extraordinary product, and are unbeatable in Kuwait for our creativity and value.

The Regency Hotel, Kuwait - Junior Suite

NEWS & EVENTS

Lasting Impressions Exhibition Opened at Sharjah Arts Museum Sharjah Museums Department (SMD) announced the opening of the fourth annual Lasting Impressions exhibition at Sharjah Art Museum. The display, which brings together a retrospective collection of paintings by the late Syrian artist Abdul-Latif Al-Smoudi, was inaugurated by Sheikh Khaled bin Saqer bin Hamad AlQassimi, chairman, directorate of Public Works, Sharjah. Lasting Impressions was conceived in 2010 as a platform to showcase the works of outstanding local and Arab artists, who over the course of their careers have carved out a distinguished presence in the Arab contemporary cultural landscape. “This exhibition is a way of honouring the memory of Al-Smoudi,” said Manal Ataya, director general, SMD. “His contribution to Arabic contemporary art was significant, and it is only fitting that we celebrate his life and his work here in Sharjah, which he called home for many years.”

EVENTS Saudi Conventions & Exhibitions Forum Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, November 3 – 4, 2013 (www.saudicef.com) The Kingdom’s leading conference and exhibition for the MICE industry with over 700 stakeholders of the Saudi and regional sector. World Travel Market (WTM) London, UK, November 4 – 7, 2013 (www.wtmlondon.com) WTM is a vibrant must-attend business-tobusiness event presenting a diverse range of destinations and industry sectors. EMEA Hospitality Summit Montreux, Switzerland, November 11 – 13, 2013 (www.hospitalitysummit.com) A premium forum bringing elite buyers and sellers together from across Europe, Middle East and Asia. International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) Costa Daurada, Spain, November 11 – 14, 2013 (www.igtm.co.uk) Exclusively organised for the golf travel industry, the show is set to attract over 600 suppliers from 55 nations.

EVENTS PAGE