Travel Trade Weekly Issue 197

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17 AUGUST 2013

ISSUE 197



17 AUGUST 2013

Qatar Tourism Continues Strong Momentum During the second quarter, all key indicators of Qatar’s tourism sector demonstrated improvement and growth with hotel occupancy rates reaching 69 percent.

ISSUE 197

Discerning travellers seeking unsurpassed luxury in travel can now book a tailor-made experience on Emirates Executive, Emirates’ ultra-spacious Airbus 319 aircraft, online.

04 SpiceJet to Fly to Muscat Indian low-cost carrier, SpiceJet, is to commence direct flights from Ahmedabad to Muscat International Airport effective from August 29, with three weekly services.

10 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE

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WEEKLY NEWS

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ACCOMMODATION

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AIR

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WHO’S MOVED

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TRAVEL TALK

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AGENT’S CORNER

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TRAVEL CHANNELS

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RENDEZVOUS

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NEWS & EVENTS

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Emirates Executive Launches Online

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MARKET UPDATE

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

MEA: Significant RevPAR and ADR Increases During the first half of the year, the Middle East and Africa region’s occupancy rose 4.9 percent to 63.7 percent, while RevPAR improved eight percent to USD106.19.

Stefanie Saghbini SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba JOURNALIST Maria Kazeli

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PRESS

TR Global’s report further revealed that average daily rate (ADR) climbed 2.9 percent to USD166.64, with Jeddah and Muscat posting double digit rises in ADR, while Muscat, Doha, Cairo achieved RevPAR growth of more than 20 percent. In Beirut, however, ADR fell 18.4 percent to USD162.54 and RevPAR dipped 20.4

Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian Derek Lainsbury DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS

percent to USD88.80, due to its proximity to Syria, this according to Elizabeth Winkle, managing director, STR Global. Meanwhile, occupancy jumped 26.7 percent to 63.2 percent in Doha, while Cairo witnessed a 21.5 percent surge, with occupancy levels reaching 51.5 percent. Riyadh, on the other hand, posted a 3.6 percent decline in occupancy to 54.1 percent.

T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia, 1308, Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 210466

Wyndham Worldwide: Profits up 3.9 Percent in Q2

WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS

Wyndham Worldwide’s second quarterly (Q2) net income increased from USD128 million to USD133 million, reflecting stronger operating results across all segments. Meanwhile, revenues rose 10 percent year-on-year to USD1.3 billion, with its lodging unit, Wyndham Hotel Group, having generated USD262 million in revenues, up 12 percent, demonstrating higher hotel management reimbursable fees and revenues associated with the parent company’s owned hotels, whereas total system-wide RevPAR improved 2.1 percent. For the full year, Wyndham Worldwide expects revenue to reach USD4.9 - 5.1 billion. “We once again delivered strong results this quarter, reflecting great operating momentum and disciplined capital allocation,” said Stephen Holmes, chairman, Wyndham Worldwide.

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

MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of

14/08/2013 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar

COUNTRY

CURRENCY

1USD=

UAE (AED)

Dirham

3.67

Egypt (EGP)

Pound

6.99

Saudi Arabia (SAR)

Riyal

3.75

Lebanon (LBP)

Pound

1,511.50

Bahrain (BHD)

Dinar

0.37

Jordan (JOD)

Dinar

0.71

Syria (SYP)

Pound

105.60

Kuwait (KWD)

Dinar

0.28

Qatar (QAR)

Riyal

3.64

Oman (OMR)

Rial

0.38

Tunisia (TND)

Dinar

1.65

Morocco (MAD)

Dirham

8.42

Iran (IRR)

Riyal

24,819.00

Yemen (YER)

Rial

214.76

Algeria (DZD)

Dinar

80.37

Libya (LYD)

Dinar

1.27

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide: Earnings Soar in Q2

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tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide’s second quarter (Q2) earnings increased 12 percent to USD137 million and USD0.71 per share, as a 4.7 percent drop in cost and expenses outweighed a 3.5 decline in revenue. “We exceeded our profit expectations, despite slower revenue growth and exchange

rate headwinds, thank to selling, general and administrative expenses cost control and good margin performances at owned and managed hotels,” explained Frits van Paasschen, CEO, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, noting that in North America, occupancy levels reached 76 percent, the highest the company has ever reported. 17 AUGUST 2013


WEEKLY NEWS Emirates Executive Launches Online Discerning travellers seeking unsurpassed luxury in travel can now book a tailor-made experience on Emirates Executive, Emirates’ ultra-spacious Airbus 319 aircraft, on emiratesexecutive.com. As Adnan Kazim, divisional senior vice president, planning, aeropolitical and industry affairs, Emirates, explained, the new private jet service elevates the high standards and quality of the airline that its customers have come to expect, with the flexibility and luxury that can only be offered by a private chartered flight.

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Rotana Jet Adds New Flights Rotana Jet continues to expand its services in the UAE with new routes between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sir Bani Yas Island. The new flights between Al Bateen Executive Airport and Dubai International Terminal 2 operate three times a week and passengers can easily continue their journey on a 50-seat Embraer Jet aircraft to Sir Bani Yas Island. According to Rajendran Vellapalath, chief commercial and planning director, Rotana Jet, demand for connecting cities within the UAE has steadily grown and customers have been requesting a direct service between Abu Dhabi and Dubai and between Dubai and Sir Bani Yas Island for some time now.

Al Majaz Waterfront: 1.2 Million Visitors Al Majaz Waterfront, one of Sharjah’s leading leisure and tourist destinations, welcomed a record-breaking 1.2 million people during the first half of the year. The AED120 million (USD32.7 million) project has continued to attract visitors of various nationalities and ages from within the UAE as well as abroad, as Mohammed Fadhil Al Mazroui, manager, Al Majaz Waterfront, noted, adding that its strategic location in the city, its beautiful natural surroundings, its welcoming family atmosphere, and the quality and diversity of amenities and services offered have allStarwood contributed Hotels to the&overwhelming Resorts Worldwide turnout. has signed an agreement “Not only does with the Jabal footfall Omar recorded Development elevate AlCompany Majaz Wa-to terfront’s launch three position newashotels one ofin Sharjah’s Meccreligious most visited tourism leisure continue and tourist to expand destinations, in Saudibut Arabia, the increased we believevisitor the time numbers is right areto also expand a strong our testament portfolio intothe thecountry. growing ” appeal of the entire emirate as a tourism destination,” added Al Mazroui.

Al Majaz Waterfront

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Rotana Jet

Bahrain: Tourism is Key to Economy Tourism stakeholders from various sectors met at Bab Al Bahrain to discuss ways of revitalising the national economy through boosting the Kingdom’s tourism sector even further. As Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al-Khalifa, acting assistant undersecretary, tourism, Ministry of Culture, Bahrain, explained, the meeting was aimed to enhance cooperation between all parties concerned in order to devise an action plan to hold diverse functions and projects throughout the year in order to unify the Kingdom’s tourism identity and increase average length of stays by tourists. Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, CEO, Bahrain International Circuit, highlighted seasonality as one of the main challenges.


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WEEKLY NEWS Dubai: Busiest First Half Year Ever Dubai attracted more than 5.5 million visitors during the first half (H1) of the year, marking an 11.1 percent year-on-year increase, thus bringing the destination closer to achieving its Tourism Vision for 2020. Dubai’s top 10 tourism source markets remained the same as those of H1 2012, namely Saudi Arabia, India, UK, US, Russia, Germany, Kuwait, Oman, China, and Iran, while the former recorded the largest growth. Meanwhile, hotel room occupancy during the six-month period reached 84.6 percent and rose to 85.9 percent across hotel apartments, while average length of stay stood at 3.89 days.

The Exclusive Travel Group Launched in GCC Ultra-luxury inbound destination management company, The Exclusive Travel Group, which designs personalised travel experiences to New Zealand, Australia, and South Pacific, has expanded to the GCC. “Luxury travellers today are no longer drawn by ostentatious services; they have moved towards a quieter, understated luxury, and plan their trips with a focus on authenticity and individualised, experiential travel,” explained Rob Young, founder, The Exclusive Travel Group. “The spectacular landscapes and unspoilt nature found in New Zealand, Australia, and the South Pacific introduces a new class of luxury to travellers from the GCC who demand more privacy and a more discreet style of indulgence,” Laucala, Taveuni, Fiji, is rated among the top three luxury he added. island resorts in the world

Qatar Tourism Continues Strong Momentum During the second quarter, all key indicators of Qatar’s tourism sector demonstrated improvement and growth with hotel occupancy rates surging 11 percentage points to 69 percent, despite a 4.5 percent rise in the number of available rooms. Total revenue in four- and five-star hotels rose by QAR115.9 million (USD31.8 million) with a 20 percent growth in revenue across five-star hotels alone. Meanwhile, the total number of hotels under construction increased to 121 properties with a total of 20,955 rooms expected to be delivered. Visitor numbers soared from most corners of the globe, with particularly good performance coming from within the GCC countries, up 15 percent, with Saudi Arabia providing the largest single source of visitors, with 144,491 travellers. Overall visitors from other continents rose 6.6 percent with Asia achieving a 12 percent growth. In addition, the leisure tourism sector saw a 10 percent increase from international markets, aided by a diverse range of events and activities in the country.

Arabian Adventures Partners with Ukrainian Group Destination management company (DMC), Arabian Adventures, part of the Emirates Group, has signed an agreement with Kiev-based Travel Professional Group (TPG) to provide DMC services to its clients in the UAE, including hotel reservations, transfers, in-resort assistance, as well as tourism and excursions. As Peter Payet, senior vice president, Arabian Adventures, noted, the company sees strong potential in Ukraine’s leisure travel market. “We will work closely with TPG in promoting Dubai, and the UAE, as a destination of choice among Ukrainian travellers. To meet the increased demand and requirements from this market, we are enhancing our offerings in Russian, adding tours and increasing frequencies,” he revealed. Elena Getmantseva, general director, TPG, added, “My team and I are very happy to hear about Emirates’ daily flights to Kiev and are positive about the tremendous benefit this brings to both our countries. TPG assures its full support to make the route a great success, as we promote travel between Kiev and Dubai.”

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WEEKLY NEWS New Arrivals Hall at Abu Dhabi International Airport The arrivals hall at Abu Dhabi International Airport has been relocated to the lower level of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The new hall marks a vital component of Abu Dhabi Airports Company’s Capacity Enhancement Plan, which is focused on ensuring the airport is best equipped to handle the anticipated growth in passenger volumes, whilst continuously enhancing traveller experience. With the new facility now open, passengers can easily access parking, taxis, and limousines just 20m away from the customers lounge through a new tunnel which connects the customers area with the new arrivals hall, versus the previous distance of 140m.

Abu Dhabi International Airport

Nakheel: New Community Retail Centre in International City Nakheel, the developer of a number of prestigious projects in Dubai, has revealed plans to construct a new 11,000m2 community centre as part of its growing portfolio of retails projects. Located on the southern side of International City, off Manama Road, the new facility will comprise a supermarket, convenience stores, and a selection of restaurants and cafés. Nakheel has already appointed Arif & Bintoak Consulting Architects and Engineers for the design and supervision of the project, which is due for completion in mid-2015. Nakheel’s two other community centres, currently under construction at Discovery Gardens and Jumeirah Park, are expected to open in early 2014.

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ADPC to Boost Cruise Tourism Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) has announced its plans to support the growing cruise business at Mina Zayed (Zayed Port), with the development of the southeastern end of the port’s berth, specifically for cruise liners and passengers. The new space will offer an immediate increase in capacity for the forthcoming season and space for further expansion in the future, while the project will be divided into several phases with the first set for completion at the start of this season, in October, offering accommodation for two large cruise ships and one small vessel. The following phases will be developed according to market potential and demand. “Now that all container traffic has shifted to Khalifa Port […] we are looking forward to maximising Zayed Port’s capacity, allowing us to focus on a growing cruise line business and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a world-class tourist destination,” commented Mohamed Al Shamisi, acting CEO, ADPC.

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WEEKLY NEWS

Accommodation

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel Undergoes Extensive Renovation Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel, which temporarily closed its doors on July 8, is set to undergo a major, eight- to 10-month renovation. The extensive project will include a complete redesign of the property’s public spaces and all 262 rooms and suites, while the Vivaldi restaurant and bar will also receive an upgrade, and

the Hatta room will be turned into an elegant breakfast venue. When the hotel returns in spring 2014, all guestrooms will feature enhanced technology with a 42-inch LCD TV, DVD player, iPod docking station, Wi-Fi connection, and the brand’s signature Link@Sheraton; a social, technology hub in the lobby where guests can stay connected.

The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, Launches New Venues The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, has added yet another restaurant to its extensive list of food and beverage outlets and unveiled a number of new venues, including a new grand ballroom and a collection of intimate event spaces and outdoor pavilions. As Raul Salcido, general manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, explained, with its elaborate menu, which takes its inspiration from the authentic family-based culinary traditions of the Far East, combined with exclusive and intuitive Ritz-Carlton service, Blue Jade will cater to the city’s most discerning food lovers of Asian fine dining. Meanwhile, the resort also continues its legacy of crafting memorable wedding experiences, according to Salcido, who added that the new venues and facilities offer wedding celebrations of any scale a classic romantic backdrop, legendary service, and intimate surroundings. Measuring 800m2, Loulou’A, the new grand ballroom, can accommodate up to 500 people for a seated dinner or 800 people for a standing reception, while five smaller event spaces, a Majlis, and new outdoor pavilions are also available.

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WEEKLY NEWS

Accommodation

The Three Corners Ocean View Hotel Upgrades it Rooms The Three Corners Ocean View Hotel, stretched along the Abu Tig Marina, El Gouna, will soon welcome guests with refurbished rooms. As Christopher Lambrecht, chief operating officer, The Three Corners Hotels & Resorts, revealed, 77 rooms are being upgraded at the property, which has recently been converted into an adult-only hotel. “For the summer season, we restarted the Du Port Pool Club and invited an amazing selection of international DJs, among them a lot of well-known Belgian and Dutch DJs. In addition, we are also concentrating on [introducing] more health and wellness programmes with personal trainers, special food, and toning classes, among others,” he said.

Abidos Hotels Invests in Workforce In a bid to benefit by offering training to its employees, Abidos Hotels successfully rolled out various training programmes for all its back of the house and frontline staff at Abidos Hotel Apartment - Al Barsha - Dubai and Abidos Hotel Apartment - Dubailand. Aamir Pervez, group general manager, Abidos Hotels, commented, “Learning and feedback is essential to our success. We believe in creating value by investing in our workforce. A series of special workshops and training sessions, designed to enhance performance and productivity of our associates, were conducted across different departments in both our properties. This gives the Abidos brand phenomenal competitive advantage as service is one of our key unique selling points.”

The Three Corners Ocean View Hotel

Abidos Hotels Staff and Management Members

Radisson Blu Resort Sharjah: Sunsational Summer Camp Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah, has organised two summer camps under the name of ’Sunsational Summer Camp’, offering kids physically active and mentally engaging programmes. The camps are divided into two sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, lasting four hours per session. The first camp took place between June 30 - July 25, while the second camp runs between August 11 - September 5 with a wide range of fun-filled activities, such as swimming, karate, lawn tennis with a professional coach, cooking sessions, gardening, water and beach sports, outdoor games, team building, as well as various indoor games.

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Accommodation

Wyndham Expands in Turkey Wyndham Hotel Group has added two more properties to its extensive Turkish portfolio through franchise agreements with Özdilek Otel Turizm İşletmeciliği Ve Ticaret Limited. The five-star 219-room Wyndham Izmir Özdilek, which marks the first Wyndham-branded hotel in the country outside of Istanbul, has recently welcomed its first guests, while Wyndham Istanbul Levent is already under construction and slated for opening in 2014. Growing the flagship Wyndham Hotels and Resorts brand is a key part of the company’s strategy, as Rui Barros, managing director, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Wyndham Hotel Group, explained.

Corp Executive Hotel Amman: Successful First Quarter Corp Executive Hotel Amman has celebrated its first three months of operation since its launch in April, with healthy occupancy levels and a growing profile in both regional and international markets. According the Emad Jawad Hussain, general manager, Corp Executive Hotel Amman, the hotel’s services and facilities are of international standards and its rates reflect the realistic need for competitive pricing for savvy business travellers, family groups, and tourists. He further revealed that the hotel has a balanced mix of corporate and leisure business, with 23 percent bookings coming from local sources and 77 percent from international markets, the top five source markets being Iraq, the GCC, Europe, the US, and Asia. “With the opening of the new terminal at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman […] we are confident of more regional and international visitors, and are positioned to offer a quality service at a competitive price,” he concluded.

Corp Executive Hotel Amman

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WEEKLY NEWS

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Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort Unveils Pure Sky Lounge Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort has added another stylish spot to its showcase, having recently launched Pure Sky Lounge. The new facility, perched on the 35th floor, boasts panoramic views of the Dubai coastline and offers a newly-designed food menu accompanied by a signature drinks list featuring customblended beverages. With two expansive terraces offering views of Palm Jumeirah and sunsets over the Arabian Gulf, Pure Sky Lounge also provides a setting for an open-air barbecue, with delights prepared by Matiyas Ayala, chef, Pure Sky Lounge. “Seafood-inspired, with vegetarian options, the menu is a fresh complement to Pure Sky Lounge’s bright surroundings. Set above The Walk, Pure Sky Lounge is an elegant, sea-facing retreat where guests can enjoy our newly designed menu,” Ayala commented.

Pure Sky Lounge

IHG Signs Third Holiday Inn Property in Rome InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the signing of Holiday Inn Rome – Pisana, its third Holiday Inn hotel in the Italian capital, which is due to open in the fourth quarter of the year. Following a conversion from an existing hotel to an IHG-branded property, Holiday Inn Rome – Pisana will operate under a franchise agreement with Roma Ovest. Located halfway between the city centre and Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, the hotel boasts 229 bedrooms, two restaurants, an elegant lounge bar, and seven meeting rooms. Domenico Magnati, director of development, Italy, IHG, stated that the addition of this property to the company’s portfolio of Holiday Inn hotels in Rome comes in line with its growth strategy for Europe.


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WEEKLY NEWS

SpiceJet to Start Flights to Muscat Indian low-cost carrier, SpiceJet, is to commence direct flights from Ahmedabad to Muscat International Airport effective from August 29, with three weekly services. The total number of passengers at Muscat International Airport has increased by 10 percent to 4,122,700 passengers during the first six months of this year. The number of civil aircraft movements also soared by 10 percent to reach 39,854 for the same period. Oman Airports Management Company assured that it is making all efforts to enhance Muscat International Airport in view of the recognised increase in the number of passengers, flights, and cargo movements, providing the required services and facilities to attract more airlines to operate into the capital’s as well as Salalah’s airports.

Air

Emirates’ Second Philippines Launch Weeks Away The countdown to the launch of Emirates’ new destination in the Philippines is well underway with Clark International Airport, 80km north of Manila, becoming the airline’s second destination in the southeast Asian archipelago, after Manila, effective October 1. The new route will create a new channel to connect millions of Filipinos living around the world as well as the large Filipino population in the Middle East, 1.5 million of whom reside in Saudi Arabia alone. “When you see these figures showing the full extent of the Filipino diaspora, it is clear how important a new route to the Philippines becomes,” said Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, senior vice president, commercial operations, Gulf, Middle East, and Iran, Emirates.

Clark International Airport, Angeles City

Etihad Airways to Acquire 49 Percent in Serbian Airline

Qatar Airways to Fly to Chengdu Qatar Airways is to commence scheduled services to Chengdu, a major economic centre of western China, on September 3. Using an Airbus A330 in a two-class configuration, the airline will operate three times a week to its sixth Chinese gateway, which is set to further consolidate its presence in the Far East and the Asia Pacific, as Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways, explained. “China is one of our key markets and we are excited to further expand our footprint in China, allowing us to provide greater options for business and leisure travellers ready to take advantage of new flights to and from another entry point in China,” he commented.

Dane Kondic, CEO, Air Serbia; Aleksandar Vucic, deputy prime minister, Serbia; James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways has unveiled plans to acquire 49 percent of Serbian national carrier, JatAirways, which is set to be renamed and rebranded Air Serbia. The Abu Dhabi-based airline has also been awarded a five-year management contract for the European carrier, under which Etihad Airways will make available a USD40 million loan facility. Subject to regulatory approval, this will be converted into equity on January 1, 2014, and will be also matched by an equal funding injection by the government of Serbia. The two parties will also provide further funding through shareholder loans and other funding mechanisms of up to USD60 million to meet working capital requirements and support network development for the newly created Air Serbia.

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WHO'S MOVED

Tamer Refaat

Len Tobias Len Tobias has been appointed director of sales, leisure, at Raffles Dubai. Tobias started her journey in the industry 15 years ago in the convention and banquets department before moving to Dubai in 2001 to gain experience in business development at World Trade Centre Hotel. She joined the pre-opening team of Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort in 2004 as busi-

ness development executive where she was later promoted to acting associate director of business development. She has been with Raffles Dubai since 2010 and worked first as senior sales manager, leisure, followed by her most recent position, assistant director of sales, leisure. Her knowledge has helped develop the leisure market for the hotel.

Tamer Refaat has assumed the position of assistant director of sales, corporate, at Raffles Dubai. Refaat began his career as a journalist for an international French newspaper in Egypt. He then moved to Dubai in 2004 to become a front desk agent at Renaissance Dubai Hotel, before joining ShangriLa Hotel Dubai in 2006, where his efforts saw him move to

Ahmed Adam Ahmed Adam has been named assistant director of sales, leisure, at Raffles Dubai. Adam, who has 13 years experience in the hospitality industry, began his career in front office and reservations, before moving to sales at hotels, such as Sheraton Jeddah Hotel & Resort, Sheraton Doha Hotel & Resort, ShangriLa Hotel Dubai, and Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City.

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Prior to moving to Raffles Dubai, he headed the global sales in Saudi Arabia for Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. Adam brings a strong background in managing tour operators’ online systems and distribution channels in the GCC markets, and with his effective communication skills, he developed experience and insight into the leisure agents and their guests.

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the sales department reaching the position of business development manager. Refaat joined Raffles Dubai in May 2010 as sales manager, corporate, and was later promoted to senior sales Manager, corporate. His knowledge and excellent relationship with the GCC markets as well as the consulates has helped develop the corporate segment profile for Raffles Dubai.

Marc Sittl Marc Sittl has joined the executive committee of Sofitel The Palm Dubai Resort & Spa as hotel manager. In his capacity, he will be supporting general manager, Christophe Schnyder in the day-today operations of the hotel. Over the past decades, Sittl has worked at prestigious properties all over the world, including The Savoy, London; The Dom Hotel Cologne;

Gstaad Palace, Switzerland; Beau-Rivage Palace, Lausanne, and others in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Uzbekistan, as well as on board several cruise liners, including Queen Elizabeth II. From 2002, Sittl amassed over nine years of regional experience as deputy general manager with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide in the UAE.


TRAVEL TALK

travel talk is your space

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Seren Sonuk

Jörg A. Hauri

Assistant of marketing and sales manager, Ramada Plaza Tekstilkent Hotel, Istanbul.

General manager, Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi.

“Emphasising comfort and variety, Ramada Plaza Tekstilkent was designed as an ideal centre for business meetings and offers high quality services to its guests […]. The Middle East and North Africa regions have great potentials for our business. And, in line with the current sustainable growth, our hotel was designed as a business centre. Most of our guests are businessmen and we mostly recommend them our perfect executive suites.”

“Since only hotels that display the height of luxury enter the scope of the Seven Star Global Luxury Awards, it gives us great honour to be recognised [with the prestigious Signum Virtutis, Seal of Excellence] amongst the best, particularly as we celebrate our 20th anniversary this year.”

It gives us great honour to be recognised amongst the best

James Hogan President, Etihad Airways.

“There is ample evidence to show that the traditional airline model and legacy airline alliances are no longer relevant to today’s operating environment and that progress for the industry is unlikely without radical change. A sustainable future for global aviation relies on a bold vision and a willingness to break with tradition and past practices.

A sustainable future for global aviation relies on a bold vision

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

17 AUGUST 2013


AGENT'S CORNER

AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Khaled Saleh POSITION: Tours manager COMPANY: Al Amoudi Travel Agency LOCATION: Saudi Arabia

Who are you? My name is Khaled Saleh, and since 2002 I have been the tours manager for Al Amoudi Travel Agency. I began working in the tourism industry in 1994 in Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt. My company, Al Amoudi Travel Agency, started 25 years ago in Jeddah and has a very good reputation in the Saudi market. It is a travel agency which specialises in outbound tourism and we have a very good relationship with our partners around the world. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? My favourite thing about this career is that it allows you to discover many different and interesting things. In addition, it gives you the opportunity to travel to many countries around the world through familiarisation trips, road shows, and exhibitions. When is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia? I believe the best time to visit the Kingdom is in the winter up until April maximum, as the summer is very hot. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? For my next holiday, I would like to visit Germany as I have many friends there especially in Berchtesgaden, south Germany, but I will travel with my family this year to Dubai. Why should people come to you for travel advice? Clients like to get a good offer with a good rate, and our company offers this. Our clients trust us as we always recommend them the best hotels and destinations. I believe to be the top is not difficult, although it is hard to maintain, but we are doing a very good job at it. Here, they say that Al Amoudi Travel Agency is your gateway to world.

Travelport Launches Search Control Console Travelport has announced the Middle East and Africa launch of its latest innovation in intelligent flight search, the Search Control Console. The new tool, which customises search in real time, enables agencies to centrally control over 35 rules and parameters to fine-tune the relevancy of search results to their traveller’s needs and to quickly capture business opportunities. Agents can use the application to eliminate particular transit airports which have a poor customer experience or prohibit a connection point for

a set time period if the area has been affected by a volcanic ash cloud or another natural disaster. “The Search Control Console is testimony to our commitment to intelligent search and investing in technology solutions that are important now and in the future. We are convinced our travel agency customers will see the value in this highly efficient tool as it really does enable them to offer an enhanced customer experience,” said Rabih Saab, president, Middle East and Africa, Travelport.

Al Bustan Centre & Residence Hosts Russian Agents The apartment property located in the heart of Dubai, Al Bustan Centre & Residence, recently held a familiarisation tour for a group of 20 tour operators of Natalia Tours from Ufa, Russia. The trip was coordinated with Alpha Tours, while during the visit, the agents were introduced to various services and facilities offered by the property. Moussa El Hayek, chief operating officer, Al Bustan Centre & Residence, commented that the Russia is a key segment for the property, which always looks for ways to increase the market share from the region. “Over time, Natalia Tours has successfully promoted Dubai in the Russian market. The familiarisation trips are held throughout the year to foster close ties with potential customers and to introduce the fam groups to the enhanced products of the property,” Khaled Saab, director of sales and marketing, Al Bustan Centre & Residence, he continued. with the agents

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TRAVEL CHANNELS

Silk Road Tourism Brought to Light The sixth World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) International Meeting on Silk Road Tourism has surfaced the increasing interest in developing cultural routes associated with the Silk Road.

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ointly organised by UNWTO, China National Tourism Administration (CNTA), and People’s Government of Gansu Province, UNWTO International Meeting on Silk Road Tourism, which took place in China between August 1-3, stressed the rising concerns for developing cultural paths associated with this emblematic route and thus raise the profile of its tourism. The event also showcased China’s diverse range of Silk Road destinations while highlighting the growing importance of the Chinese outbound market, expected to reach 93 million by the end of the year. “Our continued policy aimed at encouraging Chinese nationals to travel is designed to contribute to the healthy development of the sector and softening the social and economic concerns in other parts of the world,” said Shao Qiwei, chairman, CNTA.

Emirates to Use Google Now Emirates has become the first airline in the Middle East to use Google Now after it announced that it will start to roll out Google Now cards for travellers who book via the airline’s website. With the new application (app), passengers of Emirates will have the travel information they need about their flight as well as their destination, such as weather conditions, currency, local landmarks, accommodation, and attractions. “Emirates prides itself on our constant innovation and working with technology partners that will enhance passengers’ experience,” said Patrick Brannelly, vice president, product, publishing, digital and events, marketing and brand, corporate communications, Emirates, who hopes that those who choose to use the app will find it of benefit.

Hawksbill Turtle Nest Hatches on Saadiyat Island Over 40 baby turtles have emerged from this year’s first hawksbill turtle nest on Saadiyat island, which plays host to several hawksbill turtle nests annually. “We are very excited that the eggs, which are from this season’s first batch, have hatched safely,” commented Nathalie Staelens, head of environmental services, Tourism Development & Investment Company. “After being alerted by security guards at Saadiyat Public Beach, we observed them and helped guide some hatchlings safely to the sea. They were confused because the nest was located a bit farther away from the shoreline than usual,” Staelens further explained.

Marriott International Boosts Economies and Creates Jobs In its recently-released 2013 Sustainability Report Update, Marriott International noted substantial progress in job creation in underserved and emerging markets, as the company grows beyond its current global footprint of more than 3,800 hotels in over 70 countries, with a principal focus on sustainable economic activity and local employment. “Sustainable hotel development generates opportunity for Marriott in exciting new markets and supports economic development in emerging economies by boosting local tourism, creating new jobs, and supporting local businesses,” said Arne Sorenson, president, Marriott International. In the report, Marriott International captures results from 2012 in the areas of ecological, economic, and social responsibility performance, with highlights focusing on the environment; diversity, inclusion and youth employment; and human rights. Two major sustainable development projects include Marriott International’s first hotel in sub-Saharan Africa, and the largest in Rwanda. The hotel, which is expected to open in 2014, represents the start of the company’s aggressive growth plans in the African region, where it plans to help fuel the country’s travel industry and train young women through a partnership with Rwandan-based Akilah Institute for Women.

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RENDEZVOUS

15

Q & A with Adel Ali Since introducing the low-cost concept to the MENA region in October 2003, Air Arabia has firmly established a leadership role in the region’s aviation industry. Here Adel Ali, group CEO, Air Arabia, shares his vision behind the carrier’s success story.

Travel Trade Weekly: In your opinion, how has Air Arabia changed the wider Arab world’s aviation landscape? Adel Ali: The low-cost carrier (LCC) model pioneered by Air Arabia has grown in popularity, and more and more participants have entered the market. Our business strategy is very simple and will remain in line with what the airline has achieved to date; focusing on serving the markets that are most appealing to our customers. The success of our business model has led to the emergence of more LCCs in the region and they have emerged as major players in the region’s skies, rapidly increasing their share of the market. LCCs have evolved into sustainable and innovative businesses, forcing traditional legacy carriers to relook their operational models. Moreover, LCCs have played a significant role in transforming the Middle East aviation sector over the past decade, and this is set to continue during this era of change, which is greatly benefitting consumers. Travel Trade Weekly: What are the main principles that have enabled Air Arabia to deliver a profit for eight consecutive years? Adel Ali: Despite global and regional challenges that the aviation industry is currently witnessing, Air Arabia has been successful in delivering strong financial and operational performance consistently. The ever-increasing passenger demand and route network demonstrate that Air Arabia continues to set benchmarks for the LCC model as well as for the wider aviation sector in the region. Since its inception, we worked tirelessly to offer

17 AUGUST 2013

Adel Ali Group CEO, Air Arabia

markets such as Europe and North America. Considering that the LCC segment still represents just 10 percent of total regional market share, compared to 25 percent in North America and Europe, it is obvious that more LCC participants are vital to ensuring that this enormous growth potential is fully realised. Travel Trade Weekly: Over the past decade, the LCC concept has gone through significant changes. What is next?

what our customers want; a wide range of destinations at affordable prices. This will continue to be our focus and we remain committed to delivering exciting travel solutions to millions of passengers year after year. Travel Trade Weekly: Since the airline’s establishment in 2003, a number of LCCs have launched in the region creating a competitive aviation environment. What are your expectations for the future? Adel Ali: The LCC model pioneered by Air Arabia has grown in popularity, and more and more participants have entered the market. Today, nobody doubts the tremendous potential of the LCC sector which everybody looked at skeptically a decade ago. Although successful, the LCC sector in the Arab world is still in its nascent stage when compared to LCCs in matured

Adel Ali: At Air Arabia, we place great importance on using customer feedback to identify new areas where we can make their flying experience a better one. LCCs charge passengers only for the services they use, enabling passengers to save even more when flying. We constantly look at areas which could potentially offer great value addition for our passengers, thus making the process of flying just a little more hassle-free. Travel Trade Weekly: Today, Air Arabia serves over 85 global routes from its hubs. Which regions or countries will lead the airline’s expansion in the near future? Adel Ali: We constantly evaluate opportunities to strengthen our existing route network and introduce more destinations. Our markets target strategy will remain in line with what the airline has achieved to date; focusing on serving the markets that are most appealing to our customers. That being said, the next few years will be a period of continued expansion as the sustained profitability and solid growth margins enable Air Arabia to enter new geographies and launch new ventures.


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NEWS & EVENTS

EMITT to Attract 5,000 Exhibitors

SCTA: Programme for Tourism Events

The next edition of East Mediterranean Tourism & Travel Exhibition (EMITT), which will run between January 30 – February 2, 2014, in Istanbul, is set to welcome a record-breaking number of exhibitors and visitors. Since its inauguration in 1997, EMITT has witnessed tremendous growth both in size and in the number of participants, as Hacer Aydin, director, Ekin Fair, noted, revealing that the last installation of the show attracted over 4,500 exhibitors from 70 countries, while 2014’s edition is set to bring 5,000 companies from 80 countries to Istanbul. “We are all waiting for new destinations from all over the world to get their own share from the growing Turkish market by taking part in EMITT, which is a great starting point for them,” said Aydin.

H.R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president, Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA) has announced that a comprehensive promotional programme for tourism events in the Kingdom for 2014-2018 is set to be launched. The initiative aims to meet the increased demand of citizens on tourism events as well as their desire to promote event quality and make them more diverse in a manner that fulfills people aspiration. SCTA has already finalised the foundation stage of tourism events as well as the creation and development of a new sector for the tourism trip operators. Tourism events of SCTA did not exceed three at the foundation phase, however following the birth and organisation of a new sector through tourism event programmes by SCTA some eight years ago, the events sector has witnessed an increased annual growth rate of 1,260 percent, reaching 450 events and contributing to the generation of 55,000 direct and indirect jobs. Economic revenues of these events in 2005 until the end of 2012, across different parts of the Kingdom, reached over SAR17 billion (USD4.5 billion).

EVENTS Food and Hospitality Oman Muscat, Oman, September 2 – 4, 2013 (www.foodandhospitalityoman.com) This event showcases a comprehensive range of services in the international food, beverage, and hotel industries.

Group Leisure & Travel Trade Show Birmingham, UK, September 18 – 19, 2013 (www.leisureshow.com) One of Britain’s largest annual group travel events with 200 exhibitors and 2,000 visitors.

MATTA Fair Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, September 6 – 8, 2013 (www.mattafair.org.my) Malaysia’s premier travel extravaganza providing global exposure and endless business opportunities.

World Tourism Day (WTD) 2013 Maldives, September 27, 2013 (wtd.unwto.org) This year, WTD is being held under the theme ‘Tourism and Water: Protecting our Common Future’.

International Meetings Industry and Business Travel Exhibition & Conference (MIBEXPO) Moscow, Russia, September 17 – 20, 2013 (www.mibexpo.ru) Dedicated to the most important issues of the business travel industry.

The Hotel Show Dubai, UAE, September 28 – 30, 2013 (www.thehotelshow.com) Now in its 14th year, this show is a key meeting place for leading suppliers and buyers.

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