Travel Trade Weekly Issue 166

12 JANUARY 2013

ISSUE 166

NEWS TOPICS Accommodation Air Airports Cruising International

General Market Rendezvous Events Who’s Moved

Travel Talk Car Rentals Agents Mini Reports

Special Interest Tourism: Rural Hiking Conference & Incentive Golf Cycling Religious

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Weddings Nautical Cultural Gastronomy Medical & Wellness Education

12 JANUARY 2013

One to One Hotel & Resort – Ain Al Faida Opens One to One Hotels has celebrated the grand opening and the official launch of One to One Hotel & Resort – Ain Al Faida.

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ISSUE 166

R Hotels, the hotel management arm of R Holdings, has introduced Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman, a fourstar deluxe property which is set to help position the emirate as a preferred tourist destination.

Dubai International Gears up for Tourist Influx Dubai International racked up yet another month of double-digit growth, having witnessed 4,875,003 passengers in November, marking a year-on-year growth of 10 percent.

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

02 03 04 10 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman Launched

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RENDEZVOUS

Q & A with Ahmed Al Fahim As Abu Dhabi continues to evolve into a world-class destination, Ahmed Al Fahim, executive director, marketing, communications, sales and leasing, Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), reveals further details of the UAE capital’s most anticipated projects.

Travel Travel Weekly: What were the main highlights for TDIC in 2012?

Ahmed Al Fahim: [2012] has been very busy for us as we witnessed outstanding achievements through opening and delivering a number of prestigious hospitality, leisure, and residential properties across Abu Dhabi city, and particularly on Saadiyat island.

One of our latest additions is the five-star, 222room Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, which opened in June 2012 in a prime waterfront location. In addition, we also released a limited number of 50 luxurious residences of the Eastern Mangroves Residences, comprising the first phase of development. The second phase comprises the Eastern Mangroves Promenade Apartments with 170 apartments, and the Eastern Mangroves Promenade retail complex, both on schedule to open in the first quarter of the year.

Furthermore, 2012 was also successful on all levels of our residential projects. [...] For example on Saadiyat, The Residences at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort leased out 98 percent of its apartments dedicated for leasing, while Saadiyat Beach Villas sold out more than 80 percent of its high-end luxury homes [by the end of 2012]. Eastern Mangroves Residences have witnessed phenomenal interest from the market as more than 75 percent of its first phase of luxury waterfront apartments was leased out in less than a month of its launch. TDIC also launched the second phase of Saadiyat Beach Villas, consisting of 90 properties, after witnessing its first phase sold out with homeowners already moving in. [...] Saadiyat Beach Residences, the newly launched high-end residential community on

Ahmed Al Fahim Executive director of marketing, communications, sales and leasing, Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC)

Furthermore, Sir Bani Yas Stables, which was opened in April 2012, is an impressive facility on the heritage-rich island in the western region of Abu Dhabi. The state-of-the-art horse riding facility, located next to Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, has a capacity for 30 horses. The modern, purpose-built stables were designed with a strong focus on protecting the environment.

Travel Travel Weekly: What are the company’s plans for this year?

Saadiyat Beach, is the latest addition to the island. The first phase consists of 285 residences. Phase two consists of 210 residences and will be completed this year.

Unprecedented in scale and scope, the Saadiyat Cultural District will host worldclass museums starting with the opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi in 2015, followed by the Zayed National Museum in 2016, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi in 2017.

Travel Travel Weekly: Tell us a little about Desert Islands’ newest developments.

Ahmed Al Fahim: The latest addition to Sir Bani Yas is the new 550 capacity Desert Islands Conference Centre; the first and only venue of its kind located on a nature and wildlife island reserve. [It] will play a prominent role in Abu Dhabi’s rapidly growing MICE industry.

Ahmed Al Fahim: This year, a number of important community services and developments will be open on Saadiyat to serve residents of Saadiyat Beach Villas. These include a purpose-built nursery; [...] a retail centre offering day-to-day conveniences is also set to be developed, which will feature a grocery store, pharmacy, hair and nail salon, and coffee shop. Other amenities include a mosque and ladies beach club.

New tourism projects will be opening as well on Sir Bani Yas island this year. These include two Arabian-inspired lodges to be managed by Anantara, each comprising 30 villas situated in the most exotic settings. Al Yamm Villas will offer views of the surrounding mangrove forests and intertidal lagoons. Meanwhile, Al Sahel Villas will be one of the few places in the region where guests can view free-roaming wildlife from their lodge right in the middle of the Arabian Wildlife Park.

A further addition to the activities portfolio is the watersports centre which will offer a range of water-based activities. Classes will be available for visitors who would like to get diving certificates, renting of diving kits and diving experience.

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WEEKLY NEWS International Tourism Reaches One Billion One billion tourists travelled across the globe in 2012, marking a new record for international tourism which has cemented the industry’s position as one of the world’s largest economic sectors, accounting for nine percent of global GDP, one in every 12 jobs, and up to eight percent of the total exports of the least developed countries.

On the symbolic arrival date of the one-billionth tourist, December 13, 2012, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) revealed the actions tourists can take to ensure their trips benefit the people and places they visit, as voted by the public.

Through UNWTO’s One Billion Tourists: One Billion Opportunities campaign, which was launched to celebrate this milestone, tourists were shown that respecting local culture, preserving heritage, or buying local goods when travelling can make a big difference.

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Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi to Open on January 24 The latest addition to the UAE capital’s entertainment offering, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is set to welcome its first visitors on January 24.

Spreading over 15ha, the waterpark will feature 43 rides, slides, and attractions, including five one-of-a-kind rides, along with a number of themed restaurants, shops, and other activities.

The upcoming opening will kick-start what the management team expects to be an extremely successful year for this all-year-round entertainment attraction, as Mike Oswald, park general manager, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, explained, adding that visitors will be wowed by what is in store.

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi

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MARKET UPDATE

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel

Ernst & Young Reveals Positive October Results Ernest & Young has released its latest Middle East Hotel Benchmark Survey for the month of October 2012.

JOURNALISTS Stefanie Saghbini Rita Kasziba Dominique Christou Maria Kazeli

F

igures have shown significant increases in key hotel performance indicators across the region.

Dubai’s occupancy rates averaged at 79 percent between January and October 2012, marking a year-on-year increase of 5.6 percent. Meanwhile, the emirate’s RevPAR surged 12 percent during the 10-month stretch and average room rate (ARR) rose 8.7 percent, which altogether reflect Dubai’s in-

SALES & MARKETING Maria Demetriadou Derek Lainsbury 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

creasingly stable and growing tourism industry, as Yousef Wahbeh, head of transactions, real estate, MENA, Ernst & Young, explained.

In regard to the wider MENA region, Saudi Arabia saw prominent increases in occupancy rates, as did the Jordanian capital city of Amman, while Egypt also continued to show signs of recovery with significant improvements being reported from both Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh.

Kuwait Hotels Benefit from F&B Sales

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Kuwait’s hotel sector experienced a positive growth trend in the month of October 2012, based on TRI Hospitality Consultancy’s HotStats report.

During the month, occupancy levels rose four percentage points to 63.2 percent, while average room rates climbed 6.9 percent amounting to USD323.51, boosting RevPAR to USD204.39, up 14.1 percent, as Kuwaiti families as well as visitors from neighbouring Saudi Arabia spent their Eid Al Adha holidays in the state.

Consequently, Kuwait hotels saw their food and beverage (F&B) and conference and banqueting revenues increase by more than a third, while leisure revenues multiplied, pushing total RevPAR up by 26.8 percent to reach USD419.09 and gross operating profit per available room up by 43.2 percent to USD237.02.

EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of

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

COUNTRY

CURRENCY

1USD=

UAE (AED)

Dirham

3.67

Egypt (EGP)

Pound

6.54

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

71.00

Kuwait (KWD)

Dinar

0.28

Qatar (QAR)

Riyal

3.64

Oman (OMR)

Rial

0.38

Tunisia (TND)

Dinar

1.55

Morocco (MAD)

Dirham

8.43

Iran (IRR)

Riyal

12,285.00

Yemen (YER)

Rial

214.53

Algeria (DZD)

Dinar

78.58

Libya (LYD)

Dinar

1.26

Saudi Hotel: Mixed Results

T

he onset of 2012’s Hajj season and the long holidays for Eid Al Adha contributed to mixed results in Saudi Arabia’s hotel sector, a HotStats report by TRI Hospitality Consultancy has shown.

In Jeddah, occupancy levels remained relatively unchanged from 2011, averaging at 78.4 percent, while average room rate (ARR) increased 28.1 percent to USD251.47, boosting RevPAR to USD197.23.

Meanwhile, revenues from meetings and

events doubled, driving total RevPAR (TRevPAR) up by 23.5 percent to USD302.92 and gross operating profit per available room (GOPPAR) up 40.2 percent to USD145.28.

Contrarily, occupancy levels in Riyadh plummeted to 47.1 percent, marking a fall of 21.7 percentage points, while ARR dropped 7.9 percent to USD253.8, dragging RevPAR down by 36.9 percent, to USD119.58, and TRevPAR by 30.8 percent, to USD205.16, resulting in a decrease in GOPPAR of 48.4 percent to USD 91.07.

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WEEKLY NEWS

Ras Al Khaimah: Record One Million Visitors Ras Al Khaimah achieved its annual target by end of November 2012, one month ahead of schedule, after welcoming over one million visitors for the first time.

Based on figures released by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (Ras Al Khaimah TDA), between January and November 2012, 1,001,495 travellers visited the emirate, generating a revenue of almost AED582.7 million (USD144 million),

up 45.7 percent over 2011 figures.

The strongest source market proved to be Germany, followed by the UAE and Russia, while other significant markets included the UK, Italy, Ukraine, and Czech Republic.

“Our targets have been set since Ras Al Khaimah TDA [was] established in May 2011: welcoming 1.2 million visitors by [this year] and increasing the hotel room

inventory to 10,000 rooms by 2016,” commented Victor Louis, chief operating officer, Ras Al Khaimah TDA, who attributed the success to the joint cooperation of the authority’s travel partners both within Ras Al Khaimah and beyond, further indicating that the results are testimony to the emirate’s capability and attractiveness as a tourist and tourism investment destination.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai Crowned the World’s Tallest Hotel

Rupprecht Queitsch, general manager, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai , with Ashok Korgaonkar, managing director, Archgroup Consultants

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai has been officially recognised by the Guinness World Records as the world’s tallest hotel.

At a height of 355m, the five-star property is only 26m short of the Empire State Building in New York. Spread across two 77-floor towers, each with 804 rooms and an array of 14 restaurants, bars, and lounges, alongside state-of-the-art meeting and event facilities, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai is hailed as the city’s first world-class convention and business destination hotel.

By February, when the grand opening is scheduled to take place, all food and beverage outlets, as well as the Saray Spa and Health Club, are set to be operational, while the second tower is expected to open by late 2014.

Rupprecht Queitsch, general manager, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, who expressed delight for this recognition, described the property as an outstanding addition to Dubai’s iconic skyline.

Dubai International welcomes Concourse A Dubai Airports has announced the gradual opening of Concourse A, the first A380 facility in the world, at Dubai International’s Terminal 3, with four of its 20 gates having begun operation on January 2.

“We believe that this approach of gradual transition will enable us and all our partners to ensure smooth operations and help us to deliver on our customer service commitment,” commented Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports, adding that this is a huge achievement for the company and its partners.

Concourse A is part of the Terminal 3 complex exclusively built for the use of Emirates, and will increase the airports annual passenger capacity to 75 million when it becomes fully operational.

Abu Dhabi: Record Hotel Guest Figures The number of guests staying at Abu Dhabi’s 137 hotels, resorts, and hotel apartments between January and November 2012 reached 2,171,680, rising 14 percent over the same period in the destination’s record year in 2011.

Figures released by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) show that the surge in guest volume increased guest nights to 6,312,359 and hotel revenues to AED4.2 billion (USD1.2 billion).

The strongest growth was recorded from Africa, which was up 34 percent, while notable improvements were also witnessed from both Asia and the GCC. Internationally, the UK remained the destination’s key overseas market, followed by India, and Germany.

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WEEKLY NEWS Al Ain Zoo Caters to Visitors with Special Needs Al Ain Zoo has welcomed a golf cart donation from First International Motor Trading, fully equipped to provide transport services for visitors with special needs.

The Garden City’s zoo has long been committed to enhancing the experience of all visitors, including the ones with special needs, according to Ibrahim Al Nuaimi, director, procurement and contract, Al Ain Zoo. In addition to the donation, valued at AED40,000 (USD10,890), First International Motor Trading will also be providing complimentary free maintenance.

Al Ain Zoo also earlier signed a memorandum of understanding with the Directorate of Rehabilitation and Employment to train and employ qualified UAE nationals with special needs, and as part of this ongoing agreement, the zoo has already welcomed a number of trainees as full-time employees.

MEA: Positive Hotel Performance Continues According to data compiled by STR Global, average daily rate (ADR) across the Middle East saw a double-digit uplift in October 2012, for the first time during the year, growing 13.3 percent to USD246, as hotels benefited from an increased demand during the Eid celebrations.

Across Saudi Arabia, RevPAR was up 38.8 percent, and Dubai as well as Cairo also achieved double-digit growth in this metric, rising 20.4 percent and 17.3 percent respectively.

The largest occupancy improvement was also reported from the Egyptian capital with a year-on-year increase of 11.1 percent, lifting occupancy to 54 percent.

In addition, the entire Middle East and Africa region recorded an overall rise in occupancy of 4.6 percentage points reaching 65.5 percent during the month, while ADR grew 9.4 percent to USD183.97 and RevPAR reached USD120.56, up 14.4 percent.

Dollar Thrifty: Strong Growth Prospects Ibrahim Al Nuaimi, director, procurement and contract, Al Ain Zoo, Tarek Abou El Ela, managing director, First International Motor Trading, and Salem Al Shamsi, transport supervisor, Al Ain Zoo

SATA Opens in Dubai Sharjah Airport Travel Agency (SATA)’s new branch in Dubai was officially inaugurated in mid-December 2012, with a ceremony attended by H.E. Ghanem Al Hajri, chairman, Sharjah Airport Authority, and a number of government officials and other airline and trade partners.

Al Hajri believes that the branch will provide what he described as the best and most innovative products to all customers, further informing that SATA’s expansion plans will see more branches in vital areas, with the next one due to open in Abu Dhabi. “We believe that it is very important to access the important market such as Dubai which will contribute to increase SATA’s customer base.”

Arshad Munir, general manager, SATA, explained that the location is very easily accessed, with Abu Hail metro station 2 and Abu Hail bus stand just a few metres away.

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Following a highly successful year in 2012, Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group plans to further grow its business in the region.

The company, which, as Sam Eltibi, executive director, MENA and Asia Pacific, Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, explained, has thrived in the UAE for over 11 years, looks forward to the coming months with optimism.

“We feel this year is a milestone in political, environmental, and ultimately business reforms, and as customers become more capricious, we are geared up to serve their requirements,” said Eltibi, adding that in 2012, the group already added new locations in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, as well as the UAE, and green initiatives, especially in car maintenance, are increasingly high on the agenda.

Speaking about the group’s business plans, Eltibi expressed positive hopes for Tunisia, Egypt, Yemem, Libya, and Syria, as well as Asia and Southeast Asia in particular.

“We are under discussion to sell franchises across Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia as well as Sri Lanka,” revealed Eltibi.

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WEEKLY NEWS

Hertz Launches Green Initiative in Milan Hertz, in cooperation with Nissan, has launched a green car initiative in Milan, Italy, namely ElectriCity, providing Nissan LEAF electric vehicles, which boasts a four-star Euro New Car Assessment Programme rating.

Customers will find these cars available for rent from Milan’s central railways station or online. Meanwhile, they can also benefit from free access to the city’s congestion zone and free parking at specific spaces indicated by blue stripes.

The initiative follows a series of green car offerings by Hertz in many major cities including Rome, Paris, London, New York City, and Washington, D.C., while the coming months will see the car rental company increase its global electric vehicle presence in other countries as well.

Hertz launches Nissan LEAF

Passengers Embrace Technology Self-service check-in at Abu Dhabi International Airport is growing at a rapid pace with 17 percent of passengers having taken advantage of the convenience and control that the technology offers in 2012, up from just nine percent recorded in 2011, according to data released in the SITA / Air Transport World Passenger Self-Service Survey.

Based on the report, the region still lags behind other parts of the world, however, nearly half of the passengers surveyed at the airport booked their ticket online, rising to 46 percent in 2012 from 35 percent in 2011.

“We still have a long way to go [...] but the doubling of take-up over the past year is a strong endorsement that our self-service strategy is working,” Hamed Al Hashemi, vice president, information and communication systems, Abu Dhabi Airport Abu Dhabi Company, commented.

International Airport

Changi Airport Records 50 Million Passengers Singapore Changi Airport ended 2012 with a historical milestone, registering more than 50 million passenger movements for the year.

The number of travellers departing from, arriving at, and transiting through Changi Airport rose 10.7 percent in 2011 and increased by another 10.1 percent in the first 11 months of 2012.

The surge is attributed to the soaring number of low-cost travel options and booming demand for intraAsia travel where robust double-digit surge to and from Northeast Asia and South Asia contributed to the rise since the start of 2012.

Strong markets such as Southeast Asia, Southwest Pacific, and Europe also continued to grow, cementing Singapore Changi Aiport’s position as a major air hub in the Asia Pacific region.

Lee Seow Hiang, CEO, Changi Airport Group, explained that the record is also the outcome of strong partnerships with airlines like Garuda Indonesia.

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WEEKLY NEWS

One to One Hotel & Resort – Ain Al Faida Opens One to One Hotels has celebrated the grand opening and the official launch of One to One Hotel & Resort – Ain Al Faida.

Since its initial opening over 30 years ago, Ain Al Faida, nestled among the Jebel Hafeet Mountains, has become a historical destination, which has now been renovated to restore its prestige with a modern touch.

Located in the heart of Al Ain, the new property features 57 villas and 26 contemporary rooms, various sports and leisure activities, a wide selection of culinary delights, over 120m2 of event space with a ballroom, steam room, sauna, and a pool.

Accommodation

Rotana to Expand Middle East Portfolio Rotana plans to significantly enhance its regional network with new hotel openings planned for the coming months in the UAE, Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Qatar, as well as Saudi Arabia.

Situated within the Capital Centre development, the four-star Capital Centre Rotana, Abu Dhabi, will offer 300 rooms and suites, while the five-star Hili Rayhaan by Rotana in Al Ain will comprise some 200 units.

Part of the City Centre Doha shopping complex, the five-star City Centre Rotana, Doha, will feature 400 rooms and suites while Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana, another five-star property, will add 236 keys to Riyadh’s room inventory.

The five-star 200-unit Karbala Rayhaan by Rotana, hailed as the Iraqi city’s first five-star hotel, is also in the pipeline and Arjaan by Rotana, Bahrain, will consist of five modern state-of-the-art buildings featuring 128 apartments.

Amman’s 400-suite Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana is due to welcome its first guests in the second quarter of the year.

Best Western Debuts in Jordan Best Western International (BWI) has opened Best Western Grand Hotel Madaba, marking the hotel company’s entry into Jordan.

Located in the ancient city of Madaba, the 70-room hotel offers an ideal base from which to explore the Kingdom while guests can also benefit from a range of leisure facilities including a heated outdoor swimming pool and terrace, a health club, restaurant, and lobby lounge. For corporate guests, the hotel offers a business centre and meeting space for up to 80 people.

The launch of Best Westerm Grand Hotel Madaba marks the start of yet another exciting chapter in the company’s Middle Eastern adventure, as Glenn de Souza, vice president, international operations, Asia and Middle East, BWI, noted, further expressing confidence in Jordan as one of the most visited countries in the region.

Best Western Grand Hotel Madaba

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Accommodation

Hyatt Announces Third Hotel in Morocco Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced a management agreement for yet another property to be developed in Morocco.

The Hyatt Place Taghazout is the brand’s second hotel under development in the country after the previously announced Park Hyatt Marrakech, which is gearing up to open this year.

The new property, expected to launch in late 2014, will be part of a master planned development, Taghazout Bay, which will comprise the hotel, a Moroccan spa, retail centre, golf course, clubhouse, and surf camp.

Best Western to Open Second Hotel in Oman Following its debut in Oman in 2012, Best Western International plans to further strengthen its presence in the Sultanate.

Located in the capital city of Muscat, Best Western Premier Al-Qurum will offer 220 rooms and is, at the moment, expected to welcome its first guests in December.

Once open, the new addition will further grow the hotel company’s regional portfolio which already includes one property in Oman, the 203-unit Best Western Premier Muscat, which was officially launched in October 2012.

Danat Al Ain Resort Receives Five-Star Status Danat Al Ain Resort has been awarded the five-star hotel classification, confirming the 216-key property’s status as a luxurious resort.

The ranking was received by the property as it unveiled its new lobby area as part of the resort’s extensive renovation project which also included a refurbishment of its rooms, suites, and villas.

The makeover is set to continue with the renovation of the building façade and the all-day dining restaurant, Arabesque.

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WEEKLY NEWS

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Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman Launched R Hotels, the hotel management arm of R Holdings, has introduced Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman, a four-star deluxe property which is set to help position the emirate as a preferred tourist destination.

Located on the Corniche Road, the hotel features 107 rooms and suites overlooking the Arabian Gulf, offering an ideal place for both business and leisure travellers as Iftikhar Hamdani, general manager, Ramanda Beach Hotel Ajman, explained. “The location is very convenient and the facilities are ideal for families looking for a weekend getaway, couples on a romantic sojourn, or guests wanting to escape the bustle of city life. We hope to continue to attract new markets for this property and sustain the current markets that we serve.”

Guests can also make use of the property’s restaurant, conference room, gym, swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and spa.

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WEEKLY NEWS

Dubai International Gears up for Tourist Influx Dubai International racked up yet another month of doubledigit growth, having witnessed 4,875,003 passengers in November 2012, marking a year-on-year growth of 10 percent and lifting figures, during the 11-month stretch, to 52,363,589, up 13.1 percent over the corresponding period in 2011.

The strongest markets in terms of percentage passenger growth were South America, up 98.9 percent, followed by Russia and CIS, which increased 22.6 percent, Australasia, with a rise of 21 percent, and North America, surging 20 percent.

Meanwhile, aircraft movements totalled 29,749, an improvement of 2.3 percent, and cargo was up 4.4 percent compared to November 2011.

Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports, was pleased with the traffic growth, which, he said, took the airport closer to reach its full capacity, and with the newly-opened Terminal 3, these numbers are set to reach between 60 million and 75 million.

Air News

Emirates - Qantas partnership Emirates and Qantas have welcomed the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)’s draft determination that proposes to grant authorisation for their partnership for five years.

The deal it set to provide customers with a seamless international and Australian network, exclusive frequent flyer benefits, and world-class travel experiences, subject to ACCC regulatory approval which is required for Emirates and Qantas to coordinate on pricing, sales, and capacity.

Alan Joyce, CEO, Qantas Group, described ACCC’s draft determination as an important step towards delivering a better travel experience for millions of customers. “Our customer research has shown very strong support for the Qantas and Emirates partnership, particularly in terms of increasing one-stop access to Europe, cutting travel time, and offering frequent flyer benefits,” he continued.

Submissions to the ACCC made in support of the Emirates - Qantas partnership includes the Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure and Transport, the Victorian and Queensland state governments, Australian Tourism Export Council, and the National Tourism Alliance.

flydubai Opens Two New Travel Shops flydubai and Sharjah National Travel & Tourist Agency (SNTTA) recently celebrated the launch of two new travel shops in Sharjah and Ajman, with representatives of both companies cutting the ribbon at the Sharjah outlet.

Hamad Obaidalla, chief commercial officer, flydubai, who was joined

by Sheikh Khalid Abdulaziz Al Qasimi, chairman, Liberty Investment Company, the holding company of SNTTA, confirmed that the airline is always trying to offer the best and partnering with SNTTA will lead to that.

“We are grateful to SNTTA for their support in launching these outlets and look forward to welcoming more passengers from the Northern Emirates on board flydubai,” Obaidalla continued.

Al Qasimi added, “SNTTA is proud to be the franchise partner of flydubai in Sharjah and Ajman, and this marks a new chapter in our growth story. [...] We look forward to supporting the airline’s growth in these markets and we are confident flydubai will continue to soar to new heights in the years to come.”

Jet Airways’ New Mangalore - Dubai Service

Jet Airways

As of January 3, Jet Airways now offers six weekly flights on the Mangalore - Dubai route.

Sudheer Raghavan, chief commercial officer, Jet Airways, commented, “Jet Airways’ new Mangalore - Dubai service will provide a much needed link between the chief port city of Karnataka and Dubai, catering to the large number of Indians settled in the UAE. “The introduction of this new service, the first from a Tier II Indian destination to the Gulf, will further strengthen Jet Airways’ presence in the [region], where it has emerged as one of the leading carriers.”

The additional services from Mangalore will complement the airline’s existing Gulf operations to Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Doha, Kuwait, Muscat, Sharjah, as well as Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dammam.

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Air News

Etihad Airways and Air France-KLM New Partnership

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RAK Airways Increases Abu Dhabi Flights

Etihad Airways and Air France-KLM have signed an historic agreement to codeshare on flights across the airlines’ networks, the first phase of a much larger strategic partnership.

The agreement will see Etihad Airways and Air France-KLM codeshare on destinations in Europe, Middle East, Asia, and Australia, and at the same time, Air France is announcing a new codeshare agreement with airberlin, Europe’s sixth largest airline, in which Etihad Airways holds a 29.21 percent stake.

James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, commented, “The linking together of these three components, as we continue to strengthen our bilateral agreements, means all the pieces of our plan are coming together.”

Oman Air and Qatar Airways Codeshare Oman Air and Qatar Airways have announced a codeshare agreement, allowing the Omani carrier’s customers to book flights from any of the 42 departure points within its network to Doha.

Announcing the deal, Wayne Pearce, CEO, Oman Air, said, “We are delighted to be joining with Qatar Airways to offer even greater choice, value, and convenience for our customers. This codeshare will make travel within the Gulf region easier, effectively extending Oman Air’s network.

“Both Oman Air and Qatar Airways offer customers extremely high standards of comfort and service, so I am pleased that we are now offering this great opportunity and am sure that it will prove to be an outstanding success.”

Further commenting on the agreement, Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “Qatar Airways is focused on delivering its signature five-star service to its passengers, as well as an extensive network of destinations to choose from, which is further enhanced with this new partnership.”

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WEEKLY NEWS

In October 2012, RAK Airways made history as the first UAE national carrier to operate domestic flights into Abu Dhabi, and as the route proved popular with passengers, the airline made the decision to fly daily to the capital, which came into effect on December 11, 2012.

John Brayford, CEO, RAK Airways, commented, “We believe in offering our customers choice and believe it [was] appropriate to go ahead and expand the Abu Dhabi service to a daily flight, something we promised when we launched in October.

“The airline’s business plan shows a steady growth path for the next five years building a network around the hub in Ras Al Khaimah offering easy connections, a smooth transition through the normal formalities, and a high standard of personal service to our customers.”

Brayford further noted that RAK Airways carried over 300,000 passengers during the year, boasting an increase of 47 percent over 2011.

RAK Airways

Qatar Airways to Operate Boeing 787 to Perth Just months after commencing services to Perth, Qatar Airways is set to become the world’s first airline to operate scheduled Boeing 787 Dreamliner flights to and from Australia, starting February 1.

Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways, stressed that passengers travelling to and from Australia will have the opportunity to travel onboard one of the most sophisticated, spacious, and comfortable aircraft in the skies today. “Our Perth route was launched in July 2012 with three flights a week, but we stepped up capacity at the beginning of this month to daily and soon we will deploy our new 787 on the route which demonstrates the confidence we have in this relatively new market for us.

“From Perth, passengers are able to easily connect via Doha to more than 80 destinations worldwide, including over 30 in Europe such as London Heathrow […]. From February, we will be able to offer the UK and western Australian markets a single 787 product all the way, giving our passengers a whole new long-haul experience on the world's newest aircraft.

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WEEKLY NEWS

International

Four Seasons to Arrive in Cesme Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has announced plans for a new resort property in Cesme, Turkey.

The company recently signed an agreement with real estate specialist Dilek Gayrimenkul Yatırım ve Turizm for Four Seasons Resort Cesme, which is set to open in 2016 and is expected to attract domestic and international travellers alike, due to the region’s beauty and history as well as its reputation as a sports and adventure hotspot.

The beachfront property will comprise 130 suites and 16 private villas offering sea views, and it will also feature sports and fitness facilities.

Four Seasons Resort Cesme marks the company’s third property in Turkey, following the two hotels at Sultanahmet and the Bosphorus, which opened in 1999 and 2008 respectively.

Herodion Hotel Joins WIH Herodion Hotel in Athens, Greece, has joined the Warwick International Hotels (WIH) collection further enriching the company’s portfolio.

The property, located at the heart of Athens near the Acropolis Museum, boasts a contemporary atmosphere featuring 86 rooms and four suites, most of which include balconies offering views of the Acropolis archaeological site. The hotel’s facilities include a bar decorated with Greek art as well as a fireplace, a restaurant serving local and Mediterranean cuisine, a café catering to international preferences, and a roof terrace.

“Warwick International Hotels is proud to now count Herodion Hotel among its portfolio. It further enhances the international reputation of the group which has now more than 50 hotels on five continents,” said Jean-Marie Pébrel, director, European sales office, WIH.

Herodion Roofgarden

Starwood Expands in Latin America Following the launch of the Aloft brand in Latin America in 2011, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide forges ahead with expansion plans to open four new Aloft hotels in the region.

Aloft Panama is set to come on board this year while Aloft Merida, Mexico, and Aloft Asuncion, Paraguay, are expected to debut in 2014, and Aloft Montevideo, Uruguay, to launch in 2015.

According to Ricardo Suarez, vice president, development and acquisitions, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Latin America, the Aloft brand is a key part of the hotel giant’s aggressive expansion strategy in the region. “When Aloft premiered in Latin America, it made a bold statement by providing a true alternative to the existing select service products in the marketplace. We have seen strong guest and developer demand for this brand and its momentum clearly demonstrates that the region is ready for the next-generation Aloft hotel experience.”

The company is further strengthening its existing portfolio in the region with 17 new properties already scheduled to open by 2016.

Coco Collection Launches Coco Privé Coco Collection, a luxury resort provider in the Maldives, launched its new private island retreat early in December 2012, namely Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island.

The new property, located in North Malé Atoll, comprises five villas and one grand master residence which is split into two levels with the upper area incorporating an open bedroom, living area, and master bathroom, complemented with a private upper deck featuring a sunken lounge and Jacuzzi offering views of the Indian Ocean.

Meanwhile, the lower level consists of a library, dining room, living room, cocktail bar, and gym with steam shower.

In an effort to provide its guests with a unique Coco Privé experience, representatives will meet guests at Malé International Airport and transport them via yacht, 30km north to the property.

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WHO'S MOVED

Manish Gehani Manish Gehani has been named assistant director of finance at Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence.

Gehani, who has nine years of experience in the hospitality industry, started his career at Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi as a cashier, covering various positions including night auditor, accounts receivables, and payable and payroll clerk.

He then moved to Rotana’s corporate office as an accountant before being promoted to credit manager at Al Ain Rotana in 2010. After one and half successful years in Al Ain, he has now decided to take on this new position in Dubai.

Gehani believes in team work and to him thinking out of the box is one of the keys to success.

Prateek Kumar Prateek Kumar has been named general manager of Dusit Thani Dubai.

Kumar takes on the position after serving as general manager of Dusit Thani Manila, where he headed up the successful re-launch of the property following its extensive refurbishment. Having worked with various luxury hotel brands in Singapore, he brings extensive experience to the role.

Graham Kiy Graham Kiy has been appointed general manager of Jumeirah Vittaveli, Maldives.

Kiy joined Jumeirah Group in August 2010 as the pre-opening hotel manager of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray in Dubai. Prior to his move to Maldives, he supported the pre-opening team of Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel, Shanghai.

Having worked across China, Singapore, Philippines, In-

12 JANUARY 2013

donesia, Thailand as well as Taiwan, Kiy is fluent in six languages and brings extensive senior management experience to the five-star resort which recently celebrated its first year of operation.

Having worked across China, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand as well as Taiwan, Kiy is fluent in six languages

15

Prior to joining Dusit International, he was responsible for the pre-opening of Ascott Raffles Place Singapore’s financial center and he also worked for Raffles Hotels & Resorts, Starwood Hotels & Resors Worldwide, and Renaissance Hotels.

Prateek Kumar has been named general manager of Dusit Thani Dubai

James Wilson James Wilson has been named general manager of Dusit Thani Bangkok.

Wilson joined Dusit International in 2000 and has most recently served as general manager at Dusit Thani Dubai.

Having graduated in hotel catering and institutional management from the University of Ulster, UK, and also having acquired a postgraduate diploma in administra-

tive and legal studies, Wilson subsequently graduated as an associate of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators before joining InterContinental Hotels Group in the UK. During his career, his work has been recognised with a number of accolades, and he also pioneered the Invertor in People standard certification for Dusit Thani Dubai.

TRAVEL TALK

travel talk is your space

16

Rushdi Al Ashkar

Peter Mansourian

General manager, Coral Hotel Dhahran.

General manager, Grand Millennium Dubai.

“When it comes to customer satisfaction, it is not easy to please travellers these days especially since there is so much choice available in terms of accommodation. However, with our superb location, world-class meeting, dining, and recreation facilities, and exceptional service, we have established a high reputation for our brand and hotel that has produced excellent financial results.”

“We are all truly proud of the country’s remarkable achievements and heritage. [The 41st National Day of the UAE] was the perfect occasion to showcase the nation’s rich cuisine and culture to both locals as well as regional and international tourists. [...] At the Grand Millennium Dubai we always ensure we contribute to the occasion, making it memorable for both our staff and our guests.”

Mike Oswald

Daniel Essex

Park general manager, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi.

CEO, Century Travel.

“[…] Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is ideally placed to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a top leisure destination in the region. Visitors to Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi can look forward to having a mega waterpark experience unlike any seen before in the region, with 43 rides, slides, and attractions, including five one-of-a-kind rides that have never been seen before in a waterpark anywhere in the world.”

“The growth of people taking longer cruises and full world cruises is increasing year-onyear as our customers see the value in being away over the cold winter months. With cruises costing less than EUR100 (USD130) a day for all meals, entertainment, and flights, our customers are recognising the ability to travel with a number of options.”

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

12 JANUARY 2013

AGENT'S CORNER

AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Alexander Ruggeri POSITION: Managing director COMPANY: Asatours London LOCATION: UK WEB: www.asatours.co.uk

Who are you?

My name is Alexander Ruggeri, the managing director of Asatours London. My father, Ivan, a fully-fledged London Blue Badge Guide, founded the company in 1987 after buying out 50 percent of a company he used to partner in.

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

The fact that everyone knows each other and that relationships mean everything. In an industry that is so fiercely competitive and a market that is so saturated, people in the trade always somehow remain friendly and hospitable.

When is the best time to visit the UK? The UK is a temperate country and the wilds of Scotland are beautiful all-year-round and London is a 24-hour, 365 day-ayear melting pot of the international community come rain or shine.

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

I am Italian so that is easy; Greece! No really, I visit both every year. The Greek islands always blow my mind with their beautifully wild arid landscapes and Minoan relics. Then, I always pop back to my home town in Italy to stay with family. The Mediterranean is the garden of the world and has a very special place in my heart.

Why should people come to you for travel advice?

Our ‘raison d’etre’ is that we pride ourselves on service and customer care; we do not hide behind e-mails or websites. Agents can visit or phone us anytime and we are here to help and advise. Aftersales care is also pinnacle to our establishment.

The agents that come back do not care that we are a couple of pounds more expensive. They simply want to work with experts who value their custom and provide piece of mind.

12 JANUARY 2013

17

Travelport Rolls Out Product Roadshow A Travelport roadshow was recently organised at InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel for some 100 customers and travel industry representatives of the global distribution system (GDS) provider, all of whom hailed from the emirate, including Al Ain. The event kicked off with product presentations which were then followed by a lunch and a series of product showcases.

Rabih Saab, managing director, Middle East and Africa, Travelport, underlined the UAE capital’s crucial role in the region’s travel industry. “Abu Dhabi is an important focus for Travel-

port in the Middle East. The travel industry in the UAE capital is continuing to develop at a rapid rate thanks to the steady growth of Etihad Airways and the heavy investments into infrastructure improvements and world class tourist attractions,” Saab said, adding that it gave the team a real opportunity to connect with like-minded customers and industry partners as the company continues to grow its presence in the region.

Similarly, Jimmy El Murr, general manager, Salem Travel, based in Abu Dhabi, described the event as one of great value and an excellent opportunity for networking.

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TRAVEL CHANNELS

Strategies to Cut Global Tourism Emissions World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recently gathered with experts from UN’s agencies and Oxford University in Qatar to present the latest strategies to reduce tourism’s contribution to global warming.

C

utting-edge alternative aircraft fuels, emissions trading schemes for aviation, water recycling systems on cruise liners, and improvements in hotel insulation were among the innovations presented during UNWTO’s side event, the 18th Conference of the Parties, to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP18/ CMP8) in Doha, Qatar, on November 29, which was held under the theme The tourism sector response to climate change: mitigation and adaptation initiatives and strategies.

“As tourism continues to grow, providing economic opportunities and jobs for millions worldwide, its carbon dioxide emissions are also on the up. We have a window of opportunity right now to move away from business as usual policies and to put

the right strategies in place to significantly reduce our emissions,” commented Taleb Rifai, secretary-general, UNWTO. On the occasion of the event, UNWTO officially launched the publication Tourism in the Green Economy which builds on the tourism chapter of the 2011 UNWTO/UN Environment Programme Green Economy Report.

An investment of just 0.2 percent of global GDP per year between 2012 - 2050 would allow the tourism sector to grow steadily over the coming decades, according to the findings in the report, which is set to contribute to much-needed economic growth, employment, and development, while ensuring significant environmental benefits such as reductions in water consumption, energy use, and CO2 emissions, as compared to a ’business as usual’ scenario.

SCTA to Restore Al-Faw Historical Site A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between H.R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman, president, Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), and H.E. Badran bin Abdul-Rahman Al-Umar, rector, King Saud University, to restore Al-Faw historical site at King Abdul-Aziz Historical Centre, Riyadh.

The MoU signifies the restoration of this site, according to bin Salman, who added that this agreement will help in the continuation for exploration processes at Al-Faw, and will be preserved and expanded to comprise an area of 16km2.

In addition, the agreement dictates forming a team that will undertake responsibility to restore the site, resume exploration processes, and to publish all reports and researches that were completed during previous investigations.

SCTA also confirmed its concerns regarding the preservation of the historical sites from climatic changes, and its aim to work towards encouraging cooperation with public and private sectors for promoting national tourism in the Kingdom.

Hogan Praises Middle East Aviation Sector Development and growth within the airline industry, as well as tackling serious challenges, continues to be led by Middle Eastern hubs and airlines, highlighted James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, in his address to 200 delegates at The Future of Air Transport 2012 conference in London, which took place on December 3, 2012.

“In an uncertain world, the Middle East is one of the ‘strong pockets’ for growth in aviation,” emphasised Hogan, remarking on the region’s positive impact on the global economy and how the focus is shifting from the traditional, more established markets to the emerging economic powerhouses in the Middle East, Asia, South America, and Africa.

Besides capitalising on its strategic location, a new approach has also been crucial to the Middle East’s success, as well as the governments’ vision, will, and ability to invest in the future, stressed Hogan, highlighting Abu Dhabi as a prime example.

“The connectivity provided

by Etihad Airways is key to Abu Dhabi’s regional competitiveness and we relish our integral role in inbound tourism and the promotion of Abu Dhabi as a leading global destination,” he further explained, stressing that Etihad Airways’ partnerships and investments with airberlin, Air Seychelles, Virgin Australia, and Aer Lingus in particular, have enabled the airline to achieve scale and strengthen its competitive position.

12 JANUARY 2013

RENDEZVOUS

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Q & A with Mohammed Al Dhaheri As Abu Dhabi continues to develop into one of the world’s most dynamic business and leisure hubs, Mohammed Al Dhaheri, quality and performance manager, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), takes a look at the phenomenon behind the destination’s astounding popularity.

Travel Trade Weekly: What are the main reasons behind Abu Dhabi’s growing appeal?

Mohammed Al Dhaheri: Abu Dhabi is a destination where visitors can engage with the culture and heritage of the past and enjoy exhilarating experiences of world-class tourism attractions and events. Visitors can choose to explore the geographic contrasts of islands, desert, oasis, and beach or savour an experience in a modern, vibrant city landscape of a 21st century city. [...] Abu Dhabi plays host to an impressive line-up of year-round world-class events including the headline F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the internationally acclaimed Abu Dhabi Art, a series of emirate-wide summer celebrations and cultural festivals, and the seasonending Mubadala World Tennis Championship.

[Early this year], we have the annual Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship swinging into action between January 17 - 20, and February’s Gourmet Abu Dhabi festival. In March, we welcome the world’s leading triathletes for the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon followed by the star-studded line up of Abu Dhabi Festival, a celebration of art and culture.

Beyond the cosmopolitan city, our landscape diversity gives visitors the chance to take in lush natural vistas allowing them to experience age-old traditions. Visitors can venture into our heritage heartland of Al Ain in the Eastern Region.

There is also a dramatic coastline with picturesque fishing villages and our adventure destination of Sir Bani Yas Island among the attractions.

The spectacular and vast open desert of Liwa in the Western Region, where dunes can reach as tall as a 40-storey skyscraper, pro-

12 JANUARY 2013

Mohammed Al Dhaheri Quality and performance manager, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi)

motional office in India.

A primary focus will be to expand new markets, especially in Eastern Europe and Asia, while developing opportunities in the emerging BRIC markets.

Travel Trade Weekly: What are the most important projects in the authority’s agenda for this year?

vides a wonderful backdrop for a true Arabian desert experience.

On the business tourism front too, we have made advances and we are readying for this year’s hosting of the Global Summit of the World Travel & Tourism Council in April when around 1,000 of the industry’s international decision-makers will descend on the UAE capital while in June we will host the annual congress of the UK’s Institute of Travel & Tourism with 450 of Britain’s top tour operators expected to attend.

Travel Trade Weekly: Which markets will the authority focus on in 2013?

Mohammed Al Dhaheri: We have a network of offices across our key source markets of the UK and Ireland, Germany, France, Italy, Russia, Saudi Arabia, China, Australia, and the US, and we [recently opened] a pro-

Mohammed Al Dhaheri: We shall place an ever-increasing focus on culture and heritage throughout our promotional activities. [...] Throughout the year, a ‘Talking Art Series’ of workshops, lectures, and master classes at Manarat al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi’s purposebuilt arts centre at the heart of the Saadiyat Island Cultural District will keep visitors abreast of the developing collections of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

We have also launched a joint initiative to promote the emirate as a leading leisure destination, in partnership with Etihad Airways.

Throughout 2013, we will mount destination pavilions at 16 trade fairs in 13 countries and stage 19 road shows across India, China, Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Australia; capitalising on opportunities in new markets. [...] We are also pro-actively developing the cruise market sector, encouraging winter cruise season home-porting opportunities and additional ports-of-call at the dedicated cruise berths at Abu Dhabi’s Mina port, and the introduction of a multi-entry visa for cruise passengers has the potential to attract new cruise passengers from emerging markets.

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NEWS & EVENTS

GIBTM 2013 to Deliver Asia Pavilion A research conducted after 2012’s edition of Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings (GIBTM) exhibition in Abu Dhabi has confirmed that 46 percent of hosted buyers were interested in placing business in Asia.

As a result, GIBTM 2013, which is slated to take place between March 25 - 27, is to create a specialist exhibitor pavilion providing dedicated area for exhibitors from the Asia Pacific and will launch the Market Focus on Asia Networking event where those showcasing destinations and products in Asia can network with hosted buyers from the Middle East and globally.

According to Lois Hall, exhibition manager, GIBTM, Reed Travel Exhibitions, MENA buyers specified Thailand, Malaysia, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Japan as the top destinations in Asia to place future business.

Abu Dhabi Air Expo Doubles Exhibition Space In response to the growing demand from exhibitors, Abu Dhabi Air Expo 2013, hosted by Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC), will be doubling its exhibition space.

The region’s only general aviation show, scheduled to take place between March 5 - 7, at Al Bateen Executive Airport, had a successful inauguration in 2012, and a number of leading airframers have already committed to the next event, with many of them requesting an upgrade of the size of their stand.

The organisers are anticipating a display of over 120 aircraft at the second edition of the show, which has already earned a strong reputation, as Yousif Al Hammadi, chairman, Abu Dhabi Air Expo, explained, “ADAC is delighted to see the event which has become known locally as Al Bateen Expo, develop and grow. The company expects an even greater range of manufacturers and wider number of service providers from an increased geographical spread to attend.

The team is also looking forward to welcoming a number of world previews from exhibitors here in Abu Dhabi.”

EVENTS East Mediterranean Tourism & Travel Exhibition (EMITT) Istanbul, Turkey, January 24 – 27, 2013 (www.emittistanbul.com) Considered the fifth largest travel exhibition in the world, EMITT brings together 4,500 exhibitors and over 128,000 visitors.

Asia Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) Melbourne, Australia, February 26 – 27, 2013 (www.aime.com.au) A must-attend, five-star event in the Asia Pacific region for the meeting and events industry.

HOREXPO Cyprus 2013 Nicosia, Cyprus, January 25 – 27, 2013 (www.horexpocyprus.com) The second edition of the event covering a wide range of travel industry sectors, including hotels and catering.

The Gulf Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM) Abu Dhabi, UAE, March 25 – 27, 2013 (www.gibtm.com) A leading event for the meetings, incentives, and business travel industry in the GCC region, which can truly unlock all participants’ business potential.

Business Travel Show London, UK, February 5 – 6, 2013 (www.businesstravelshow.com) One of Europe’s main exhibition and conference for corporate travel buyers, managers, and bookers to source, learn, and network.

World Travel Market (WTM) Latin America São Paulo, Brazil, April 23 – 25, 2013 (www.wtmlatinamerica.com) The leading global event for the region’s travel industry, which brings the world to Latin America and promotes Latin America to the world.

Hoteliers European Marketplace Brussels, Belgium, February 11, 2013 (www.cvent.com/events/hoteliers-european-marketplace-2013) A one-day business-to-business workshop where European hotels and hotel chains meet contractors from all around the world.

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai, UAE, May 6 – 9, 2013 (www.arabiantravelmarket.com) The travel and tourism event unlocking business potential within the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals.

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