19 OCTOBER 2013
ISSUE 206
The Lagoons Announced Dubai Holding and Emaar Properties have signed a joint venture agreement to launch a waterfront city, dubbed The Lagoons.
Al Habtoor Group has unveiled Al Habtoor City, hailed as the world’s biggest residential and hospitality development under construction.
03 Etihad Airways Taking off to Los Angeles Etihad Airways has announced the launch of services to Los Angeles, US, with flights starting on June 1, 2014.
11 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION AIR INTERNATIONAL WHO’S MOVED TRAVEL TALK AGENT’S CORNER TRAVEL CHANNELS RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS
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Al Habtoor City: The Region’s Biggest-ever Development
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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel COPY EDITOR Mario Hajiloizis SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba
Subdued Performance in Saudi Arabia As Saudi nationals took advantage of the Eid holidays and travelled to popular regional leisure destinations, the Kingdom’s hotel sector recorded lower than average performance results in August.
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JOURNALIST Maria Kazeli PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia, 1308, Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 210466 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel
ccording to TRI Hospitality Consulting’s HotStats report, Jeddah recorded the lowest occupancy levels of the year at 69 percent, and although average room rate (ΑRR) increased 6.2 percent to USD273.54, RevPAR was down by 7.3 percent to USD188.85. Meanwhile in Riyadh, occupancy rose by a marginal 1.5 percentage points to 32 percent and ARR improved 4.6 percent to USD226.02 driving RevPAR upwards by 9.9 percent to 72.30. As Peter Goddard, managing director, TRI Hospitality Consulting, Dubai, noted, as busi-
ness and government activity returns to normal, the market is expected to pick up.
Riyadh
EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of
18/10/2013 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar
COUNTRY
CURRENCY
1USD=
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
6.89
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,511.50
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
137.97
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.28
Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.38
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.63
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.22
Iran (IRR)
Riyal
24,815.00
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.95
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
81.27
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.24
Ras Al Khaimah: Record Visitor Numbers in August During the month of August, Ras Al Khaimah attracted over 95,000 visitors, representing a 28 percent year-on-year increase. While domestic UAE tourism accounted for almost 52 percent of visitors, the emirate also registered a notable rise in intra-regional travel from GCC and Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Jordan, Qatar and Lebanon. During the first eight months of the year, the destination welcomed 723,852 visitors, with the UAE representing 32.12 percent of the total number, followed by countries such as Germany, Ukraine, Russia, Italy and Czech Republic. As Khalid Motik, director, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, noted, the emirate is growing from strength to strength. “The combination of accessibility, just 45 minutes from Dubai International, with luxurious seclusion, world-class hotel resorts and diverse natural landscapes perfect for outdoor activities, makes Ras Al Khaimah the ideal location for UAE and GCC residents looking to make the most of the Eid holidays,” added Motik. “Another contributing factor drawing in visitors has been the opening of the UAE’s first Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, which is the luxury brand of Hilton Worldwide, marking an exciting addition to the emirate’s premium luxury hotels and resorts.”
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WEEKLY NEWS Dubai Holding and Emaar Properties to Develop The Lagoons
The Lagoons
Dubai Holding and Emaar Properties have signed a joint venture agreement to launch a waterfront city, dubbed The Lagoons, within the proposed Mohammed Bin Rashid City. At the heart of the project is The Dubai Twin Towers, a mixed-use iconic development, and the city will also comprise a business district, an entrepreneurial zone, cultural amenities, residences, premium and affordable hotels, educational facilities, healthcare centres, a waterfront shopping mall and a wide range of leisure choices. The distinguishing feature of the development is its focus on creating distinctive neighbourhoods, which are pedestrian friendly. It will be supported by several sustainable transport modes. The sweeping waterfront of the project lined by retail, commercial and residential zones will be built around two central parks. The “green� theme will further resonate in several environmental-friendly features including eco-resorts, water features, and gardens. A number of small marinas will also be developed, providing the entire spectrum of lifestyle choices for residents and visitors.
Passenger Traffic Achieves Strong Growth for August Passenger traffic experienced a slight surge in growth to almost five percent in August compared to previous months over the first and second quarters of this year, while annualised growth of passenger movements for the period from September 2012 to August this year was registered at 2.9 percent. International passenger traffic was a leading driver of this development for the month under review. In particular, the Middle East and Asia Pacific both experienced double digit gains of 18.6 percent and 10.2 percent respectively.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Culture Village to Feature Six-star Hotel
Culture Village
Three Blue Flags for TDIC Developments Three Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) projects, including Saadiyat Beach on Saadiyat Island, Sir Bani Yas of Desert Islands, and Al Bateen Wharf in Abu Dhabi, have each been awarded with the Blue Flag for their water quality, environmental management, safety, site facilities, and environmental education. As a result, seven leisure and tourism properties will benefit from the recognition, including Saadiyat Public Beach; Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat; St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort & Spa; Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi; Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara; Al Yamm Villa Resort on Sir Bani Yas Island and Al Bateen Wharf. As Nathalie Staelens, head of environmental services, TDIC, noted, the awards show the efforts the organisation has been making to maintain the highest standards at its beaches and marinas. “It is also an international accreditation that we believe will make our properties even more appealing especially since it is a label that is recognised by the environmentally conscious tourists and visitors around the world,” added Staelens. Furthermore, earlier this year, TDIC opened the first public beach on the island, the Saadiyat Public Beach, managed by the specialised operator BAKE, which has attracted over 50,000 visitors to date.
Dubai Properties Group (DPG) is poised to proceed with the development of Culture Village; a creek-side destination which is envisioned to capture the culture and heritage of Dubai. Interconnected by 3.8km of promenade walkways, the Arabic themed project will feature a retail souk, landscaped features, a mixed-use complex overlooking the creek, a marina which will accommodate up to 60 boats, and an innovative art centre. The development is already home to a number of residential projects and will also feature ‘Manazel Al Khour’ a luxury residential development by DPG, with three- and four-bedroom luxury apartments offering panoramic views of the creek. In addition, the Village will also comprise a luxury residential development, and the six-star Palazzo Versace Hotel and the nearby D1 Residential Tower, both slated for completion in 2014.
USD202.6 Million Contract Signed for OCEC Omran, the Oman government’s master developer, investor and hospitality asset manager, has awarded the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC)’s second construction package to Omani developer, Carillion Alawi. H.E. Nasser bin Khamis Al Jashmi, chairman, Omran, described the contract as a major step towards the completion of OCEC that is set to transform the Sultanate’s tourism landscape. Worth OMR78 million (USD202.6 million), package two includes a structured car park facility for 4,200 vehicles, exhibition halls of approximately 22,000m2 of leasable space, a concourse with a glazed curtain wall system, fully equipped with main production kitchen and three cafes, hospitality suites, administration areas, a central landscaped courtyard, two circulation nodes connecting the concourse to the car park, and the ancillary buildings. Upon completion in 2016, the development is expected to attract 600,000 visitors per year, offer over 1,000 rooms, and provide 120,000m2 of retail-space.
Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Al Habtoor City: The Region’s Biggest-ever Development
Al Habtoor City
Dubai Launches USD544 Million Water Canal Project H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, has inaugurated the AED2 billion (USD544 million) Dubai Water Canal project which is expected to attract 20-22 million visitors per annum. Linking the Business Bay with the Arabian Gulf with a waterway stretching 3km in length and 80-120m in width, the state-of-the-art tourist and commercial development will add 6km to the destination’s waterfront. Over 80,000m2 will be dedicated to public places and facilities, such as shopping and entertainment centres linked through a uniquely designed bridge, more than 450 new restaurants, a wide array of luxurious marinas for yachts, and four world-class hotels, while at the entrance of the project from Sheikh Zayed Road, an iconic trade centre will be constructed comprising four levels. With all construction works scheduled for completion by 2017, the project is set to boost the position of the Jumeirah area as a premier distinctive tourist destination in Dubai, and attract 20-22 million visitors annually.
Artist Impression of the Water Canal Project
19 OCTOBER 2013
Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, chairman, Al Habtoor Group, has unveiled Al Habtoor City, an AED11 billion (USD3 billion) mixed-use project, hailed as the world’s biggest residential and hospitality development currently under construction. Spanning an area of 929,030m2, the development will provide 3,000 hotel and residential units; three hotels operated by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, a water-themed theatre, three residential tower blocks, 11 penthouses, a tennis academy and club house, and a classical French-style landscaped garden. According to Al Habtoor, the project is expected to attract 20,000 visitors per day, and up to 7.3 million visitors per annum.
Marine Water Craft Licensing Service in Dubai Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) has announced the launch of the Marine Craft Licensing Service in Dubai. The service enables marine craft owners to complete the licensing process through DMCA, making the whole process easier and faster. The move is set to develop, regulate and promote the industry in a bid to position Dubai as a first-class international maritime hub, as Amer Ali, executive director, DMCA, explained. “Unveiling an integrated package of industry licensing services underlines DMCA’s approach to launch advanced maritime initiatives that are poised to lay down solid foundations to boost the industry’s competitiveness,“ concluded Ali.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
Park Inn by Radisson Muscat Enlarges Meeting Facilities In line with its endeavour to offer business and corporate travellers and groups an ideal base to conduct business or host seminars and presentations, Park Inn by Radisson Muscat, the 175-room hotel near the commercial district of the Omani capital city, has further expanded its meeting facilities. As Rabih Zein, general manager, Park Inn by Radisson Muscat, explained, the partition of the three meeting rooms allows the hotel to accommodate larger groups and provide them with more flexible options, especially those from the government sector. “Our MICE strategy will depend on our service and staff. We train our staff to provide the best customer service that guests will remember,” added Zein. Park Inn by Radisson Muscat
Carlson Rezidor: Two New Hotels in Saudi Arabia The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is to add two hotels to its growing portfolio in Saudi Arabia. “We already operate six hotels with over 1,200 rooms in the Kingdom and have nine hotels with 1,700 rooms under development,” said Wolfgang Neumann, president, The Rezidor Hotel Group, adding that there is a considerable potential for further projects in the country which shows positive economic growth. The 170-room mid-market Park Inn by Radisson Riyadh is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2016, while the upper upscale Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah Al Salamah, featuring 142 rooms, will welcome the first guests in the second quarter of 2015.
Sonesta Receives Five-Star Classification Sonesta Cruise Collection - Nile River announced that its Sonesta St. George I Nile Cruise is the first boat to be reclassified as ‘five-star NN’ by the Ministry of Tourism, following a ministerial decree adopting new norms (NN) for the classifications of hotels and boats in Egypt providing adequate international requirements from standard of service, quality of product, physical conditions to safety, security and hygiene. Sonesta St. George I Nile Cruise is a five-deck ship built in September 2006 measuring 74.5m in length, 11m in height and 14.4m in width offering its guests a very exclusive and lavish accommodation, 49 cabins, nine presidential suites and one royal suite.
Sonesta St. George I Nile Cruise
19 OCTOBER 2013
Accommodation
WEEKLY NEWS
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Crowne Plaza Bahrain: Extensive Upgrade Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s refurbishment project is progressing on schedule with the south wing’s 138 rooms currently undergoing major upgrades to ensure that the hotel maintains its high standards. As Priya Shankar, marketing and public relations manager, Crowne Plaza Bahrain, noted, the management has listened to guest feedbacks thus the new units have been designed Crowne Plaza Bahrain
to incorporate contemporary and fresh ideas. “The newly upgraded rooms are designed with muted colour palettes and an eclectic mix of stylish modern furniture and rich fabrics where soft silver features are balanced with deep champagne and rich woods, reminiscent of the hotel’s business heritage but complete with 21st century technology,” explained Shankar, adding that all the rooms will be available before the end of the year. In addition, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, La Mosaique has also been upgraded with bright new carpets, along with the terrace overlooking the pool with new furniture, accessories and fresh paint, while the health club has undergone a soft repositioning that includes a change in the name to ‘bfit’, a new massage room and upgrade on the existing sauna rooms, while two squash courts and an aerobics studio have been added.
Hilton Garden Inn to Debut in Saudi Arabia Hilton Worldwide is to introduce its Hilton Garden Inn brand to Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province after the signing of an agreement with local investor Ali Saad Bin Sultan & Brother Holding Group. The 150-room Hilton Garden Inn Al Khobar, which is scheduled to open mid-2017, will be located close to the city’s two largest shopping malls and will enjoy easy access to King Fahd International Airport and King Fahd Causeway. “Saudi Arabia is proving particularly appreciative of our award-winning combination of best-in-class customer service together with affordable comfort and convenience,” Adrian Kurre, global head, Hilton Garden Inn, stated.
Carlos Khneisser, vice president, development, Middle East, Hilton Worldwide, (left) and Ali Saad Bin Sultan Alqahtani, owner, Ali Saad Bin Sultan & Brother Holding Group.
New Beachfront Hotel on JBR Dubai Properties Group (DPG), master developer of destinations such as Business Bay, DUBAILAND, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and Culture Village, has revealed plans of significant new projects and upgrades on The Walk at JBR, including a new beachfront hotel, in a bid to further elevate JBR’s status as a world-class beachside destination. Besides the 160-room property, a spectacular amphitheatre and additional private facilities will also be built and major upgrades will be implemented to the landscaping of the area as well as the retails outlets. “With over 13 million visitors to The Walk in 2012 alone, these new projects and upgrades will serve the growing demand from the
19 OCTOBER 2013
tourism industry in Dubai, and will add to the charm of one of the region’s most popular destinations,” commented on the latest projects, Khalid Al Malik, group CEO, DPG, adding that the developments also contribute to Dubai’s vision to become a leading international city. DPG revealed the plans at Cityscape 2013 as part of its overall commitment to continuously enhance its existing landmark destinations. The upgrades are designed to accommodate the expected increase in visitor numbers from the tourist and business traveller segment; helping to position the emirate as a world-class business hub and leading tourist destination.
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Accommodation
Landmark Amman Participates in Marathon Landmark Amman Hotel & Conference Center participated in the fifth annual Amman International Marathon by supporting and encouraging staff members to take part in the competition. The yearly event, that aims to promote the sport of running for fans and athletes alike, also raises funds for charities in the Kingdom. Landmark Amman Hotel & Conference Center’s representatives also participated in the award ceremony that Participants at the Marathon was held at the finishing line, inside of the Roman Amphitheatre in the capital city’s downtown. “As a compassionate, caring and family orientated hotel, Landmark Amman Hotel staff and management participated in the marathon to help and support our community and promote Jordan as a safe tourism and sports events destination,” commented Ibrahim Karajeh, general manager, Landmark Amman Hotel & Conference Center.
Shaza Hotels: Three New Hotels Shaza Hotels continues to extend its footprint in the region with the launch of three new properties, which are envisioned to set a new benchmark for five-star hotels in Doha, Jeddah, and Amman. “There has been an increase in demand in recent years for high quality, internationally-branded hotels in the region that encapsulate the values and cultures of the Silk Route, but more precisely the MENA region,” stated Simon Coombs, CEO, Shaza Hotels, adding that following the announcement of Shaza Doha in May, Jeddah and Amman have also been identified as strategically significant locations for the company. Due to open in the first quarter of 2014, Shaza Amman will feature 203 rooms and suites, a ballroom, and what is hailed as the largest Hammam and spa in the city. Shaza Jeddah, part of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry complex, is slated for launch in 2017. The company’s handcrafted guest experiences have inspired every aspect of the hotel, from the triplestorey lobby, the signature Shaza Hammam and Spa, three new concepts in dining and the vast ballroom, to the 140 rooms and suites.
Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa: Significant Increases Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, which comprises three luxury hotels, including Al Waha Hotel, Al Bandar Hotel, and Al Husn Hotel, has recorded notable improvements in both occupancy and RevPAR levels which have been driven by strong demand, especially during the business season. As Sharon Beigel, director of communications, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, revealed, besides the resort’s traditionally strong feeder markets, such as the UK, France, Italy, Germany and other German speaking countries, business volumes have also continued to grow from Switzerland and the Scandinavian countries.
“In Oman, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa has the largest room inventory, meeting and banquet space and most extensive food and beverage and recreation facilities to handle meetings and incentive business. MICE contributes significantly to the entire business of the resort, the second biggest contributor in revenue,” asserted Beigel. “Year-to-date RevPAR has increased significantly by over 23 percent and the growth in revenue of 2012 compared to 2011 is over 100 percent.”
Al Bandar Hotel Pool
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Accommodation
Ramada Downtown Dubai Launches Meet and Assist Ramada Downtown Dubai has introduced a meet and assist facility to better attend to guests’ requirements and further enhance guest satisfaction during their stay. Three months after its launch, the facility gained positive feedback from visitors and generated insightful suggestions. Wael El Behi, general manager, Ramada Downtown Dubai, commented, “We are very pleased with the new meet and assist facility in Ramada Downtown Dubai as it helped us connect with our guests and gain their feedback about their experience as these are very helpful in further enriching our hospitality business.”
Hilton Worldwide has signed a management agreement with Reliable Property Investment to open a DoubleTree by Hilton branded property in Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City, hailed as one of the world’s most sustainable cities. “Masdar City is developing into an extraordinary and exciting model of green living and [...] is an ideal location for one of the company’s most dynamic hotel brands,” highlighted Rudi Jagersbacher, president, Middle East and Africa, Hilton Worldwide. Scheduled to open early 2017, DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Masdar City will feature 316 rooms and suites with ample meeting and event space, business centre, outdoor pool, health club, the Christian Grage, vice president, Arabian Penin- company’s signature eforea: spa at Hilton, sula, Hilton Worldwide and Sheikh Ahmed Al and a choice of bars and restaurants. Nahyan, owner, Reliable Property Investment
Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman has signed a deal with Maxoel Yachts to add a range of water-based attractions to the hotel’s leisure offerings. Guests of both Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman and Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman can now enjoy a plethora of activities, including banana boat, floating lounge, Jet Ski, while for while those planning to cruise along the Arabian Gulf boat and yacht rental is also available. As Iftikhar Hamdani, general manager, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman, noted, the new activities will offer guests an even more fun and memorable stay in Ajman and will help to further promote the emirate as a tourist destination. Tilemachos Kanellopoulos, managing director, Maxoel Yachts, added, “This new deal with Ramada Ajman is a good opportunity for us to tap wider markets [...]. We are looking forward to providing firstrate water leisure attractions., especially for the adventurous guests.”
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DoubleTree by Hilton to Debut in Abu Dhabi in 2017
Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman Introduces Water Activities
Water Activities
WEEKLY NEWS
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WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
Middle East Online Bookings Rising by up to USD3 Billion Annually In keeping up with the latest regional trends, which see a dynamic growth in online bookings of some USD3 billion per annum, TI’ME Hotels Management has launched a dedicated Arabic online booking platform. The introduction of the new service comes at a time when, according to PhoCusWright’s research, online bookings in the Middle East are expected to nearly double between 2011 and 2014 when the region’s online leisure and unmanaged business travel market will reach USD16 billion in value from USD10.5 billion in 2012. The company’s new multilingual booking facility offers consumers a localised language option to speed up the personal booking process and also supports demographic research. “While English may be the language of business across most of the Gulf states, we felt that it was important to offer full online accessibility in Arabic, the language of the region,” stressed Mohamed Awadalla, CEO, TI’ME Hotels Management.
WIH: Third Property in Lebanon Warwick International Hotels (WIH) has announced the opening of Warwick Stone 55 Hotel, Lebanon, in December. Located in Zeinoun Street, the four-star property aspires to be one of the most modern boutique hotels in the area, as it consists of 46 rooms, a shopping outlets, international restaurant, and rooftop restaurant, modern conference and meeting room facilities. Warwick Stone 55 Hotel is the third hotel in Lebanon, after Warwick Pangéa Beach Resort & Spa, and Warwick Palm Beach Hotel, to join the WIH collection under a management contract. The property is located in Zalka-Beirut, in close proximity to Beirut’s international airport, which is additionally just a short distance away from downtown, La Marina Dbayeh, Byblos, Casino Du Liban, Jeita Grotto, Zaarour Ski Resort, National Museum of Beirut, Mzaar Kfardebian, Baalback and other major touristic attractions. Warwick Stone 55 Hotel
Crowne Plaza Sohar Aims to Exceed Guest Expectations Crowne Plaza Sohar, a retreat in close proximity to Sohar’s commercial centre, remains committed to providing guests with the highest level of service. “We are continuously improving our services and facilities to exceed our guests’ expectations,” stressed Youssef Alonzo, director of sales, Crowne Plaza Sohar, revealing that the management is keen on enhancing the hotel’s look, services and amenities, with the focus on the rooms and food and beverage outlets. As Alonzo further explained, the past 12 months have brought a notable increase in business transient guest volumes from around the GCC, Europe and North America, while leisure guest numbers form the UAE, especially during weekends and holidays, have also showed significant improvements. “Our main feeder markers are from the GCC, UK and Ireland, Europe and North America. We have also seen an increase in Asian guests, particularly from China,” concluded Alonzo.
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Air
WEEKLY NEWS
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flydubai Introduces Business Team
flydubai Business Class
Etihad Airways Taking off to Los Angeles Etihad Airways has announced the launch of services to Los Angeles, US, with the non-stop daily flights starting on June 1, 2014. The Californian city will be the carrier’s fourth US destination, joining Chicago, New York City and Washington, D.C., and will see the airline provide 28 return flights each week between the two destinations. The new service will increase Etihad Airways’ operations in the US market by 33 percent and cater for growing leisure and business traffic demands in Los Angeles, as well as the considerable catchment area of the city. The expansion of the US network will also be of considerable benefit to the growing commercial and cultural ties between the US and UAE, with trade between the two countries set to increase beyond the current annual level of USD22.5 billion, James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, further evealed. “The new service will also offer maximum connectivity, via Abu Dhabi, with 25 Etihad Airways destinations across the Middle East region and Indian subcontinent, 12 of which are in India, catering for the demand from Los Angeles’ diverse and multicultural population,” added Hogan. Etihad Airways
19 OCTOBER 2013
Following the recent launch of its business class service, flydubai introduced its dedicated business team responsible for delivering what promises to be a more personal flying experience. The new team will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week on the telephone, at the airport or by SMS, and will be able to support Arabic, English and Russian enquiries. The team can assist in bookings as well as selecting seats, choosing meals, checking in, and more. flydubai is also introducing an ‘on-demand’ service where business class passengers can SMS the business team to check-in for a flight and ask for a call-back service. The carrier welcomed its first business class passengers earlier this month, and Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai, commented that this was the next logical step in the evolution of flydubai’s strategy.
Oman Air Promotes Golf Links Initiated by Nicky Samarasinghe, country manager, Germany, Oman Air, the first golf partnership contract between Germany and the Sultanate has been signed by Almouj Golf club in Muscat and the Schloss-Miel golf club in Swisttal-Miel, North Rhine West Falia, Germany. Commenting on the partnership, Samarasinghe remarked that the partnership is another great opportunity to promote tourism through sports between Germany and Oman. The move, which aims to promote golf traffic between the two countries, continues the carrier’s support for sporting excellence, within the Sultanate and internationally, while Oman Air’s support for golf in the country follows an upsurge of interest in the sport and the launch of world-class courses including the Greg Norman-designed Almouj Golf club at The Wave, Muscat. Other courses in Oman include those at the Muscat Golf and Country Club and the Ghala Golf Club.
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Air
Etihad Airways Commences Daily Vietnam Flights Etihad Airways launched daily services to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and the inaugural flight was of historic significance as it was the first ever commercial passenger service between Abu Dhabi and the city. Vietnam is not only the 13th most populous nation, it is also one of the world’s fastest growing economies. Its commercial capital, Ho Chi Minh City, is a gateway for millions of Vietnamese international travellers and a busy trading hub, explained James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways. He added, “Our daily services will inject approximately 3,700 new seats a week into the route. This will intensify competition among airlines for business, leisure and visiting friends and relatives travel from Vietnam to Europe and help boost visitor traffic to the UAE and GCC. From an inbound perspective, we are now well-positioned to offer travellers from Middle East and Europe the convenience of non-stop or one-stop flights to Vietnam,” Hogan concluded.
Qatar Airways Expands Saudi Network Qatar Airways further expanded its operations in Saudi Arabia with the launch of scheduled flights to Ta’if – the airline’s sixth destination in the Kingdom. Qatar Airways will operate four flights a week non-stop from Doha to Ta’if, bringing the total of Saudi services to 69 a week. Fathi Al Shehab, senior vice president, GCC, Levant, Iran, and Indian subcontinent, Qatar Airways, commented that the company is pleased to add Ta’if to its growing international network and providing services to the people of the city and its surrounding areas. “Qatar Airways will continue exploring new opportunities in Saudi and providing it with new services that will boost its tourism sector,” he added. “Ta’if is a market rich with business opportunities, heritage and historic sites. I am confident that this city will succeed in attracting tourists and businessmen alike,” concluded Al Shehab.
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Air
Emirates SkyCargo’s New Terminal Underway
WEEKLY NEWS
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flydubai Launches Flights to Krasnodar
Construction on Emirates SkyCargo’s new terminal at Dubai World Central’s Al Maktoum International Airport is progressing as scheduled, with phase one of the development slated for completion by December. Upon completion of the first stage, followed by the installation of the cargo handling system and the fitment of the interior by April 2014 and full completion by mid-September 2014, the terminal will be equipped to handle 700,000 tonnes of cargo and can later be further expanded by an additional 300,000 tonnes in the second phase. According to Khalifa Al Zaffin, executive chairman, Dubai Aviation City Corporation, the airport will provide a genuinely conducive environment for major regional and global airlines and air cargo companies to accelerate their growth strategies and consolidate their market position.
Emirates SkyCargo
flydubai’s inaugural flight to Krasnodar touched down on September 21 opening the first direct air link between the Russian city and Dubai, while with the addition of Krasnodar the airline now operates to seven destinations in the country. Commenting on the new route, Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai, said that the launch underlines the carrier’s commitment to connecting underserved markets and the importance of the Russian market, expressing hope that the opening of a direct air link will boost tourism from the Middle East to the wider Krasnodar Krai region. Leonid Sergeev, general director, Basel Aero Airport Holding Group, added, “We are happy to welcome flydubai at Krasnodar International Airport. With the opening of direct flights to Dubai, Krasnodar will now be connected to one of largest hubs in the Middle East with over 200 destinations spanning from Australia to South America.”
Etihad Airways Opens New European Headquarters
New Headquarters in Berlin
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Etihad Airways has inaugurated its new European headquarters in Berlin, enhancing the airline’s presence in Germany and further strengthening its strategic relationship with airberlin. The new office houses both the Abu Dhabi-based carrier’s European and German sales and marketing teams and also includes joint Etihad Airways-airberlin reservation and ticketing counters. As James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, highlighted, Germany remains a critically important part of the airline’s growing passenger and cargo network and while some other European countries continue to face challenges, the German inbound and outbound travel market is still performing well. “2013 marks our ninth year of operations to Germany, the largest outbound travel market in Europe,” noted Hogan. “It makes sound business sense to be based in Berlin, and close to our strategic equity partner.”
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International
Hilton Worldwide Expands Africa Portfolio A new Hilton Hotels & Resorts property is to be introduced to Lagos, the most populous city in Nigeria, following an agreement signed by Hilton Worldwide and longstanding Nigeria business partner, Transcorp Hotels. The 200room new-build Transcorp Hilton Lagos will be strategically located within the exclusive residential and commercial district of Ikoyi, enjoying close Tony Elumelu, chairman, Transcorp Hotels, (left) and Rudi Jagers- proximity to the bacher, president, Middle East and Africa, Hilton Worldwide
St. Regis Hotels & Resorts to Debut in Turkey St. Regis Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement with Nisantasi Konaklama ve Otel Hizmetleri (Demsa Group) to open a St. Regis branded hotel in Istanbul. Scheduled to be unveiled in the first half of 2014, The St. Regis Istanbul will mark the debut of the luxury brand in Turkey and will further extend Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide’s presence in the country. Located on the European side of the city, the newbuilt hotel will overlook Maçka Park and the Bosphorus and will feature 118 rooms, including four suites, a number of food and beverage outlets, a spa, fitness centre, business centre, meeting rooms, and a large ballroom. “We look forward to a long-term collaboration with Demsa Group starting with the launch of our St. Regis brand in Istanbul,” said Michael Wale, president, Europe, Africa and Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. According to Bart Carnahan, senior vice president, acquisitions and developments, Europe, Africa, and Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, the addition of St. Regis to the company’s brand portfolio in Turkey is further proof of the exceptional opportunities for both leisure and business development in the country across all sectors of the hospitality industry.
main financial and business centres of the city. Expected to open mid-2016, the upscale, full service hotel will feature a wealth of attractive facilities and conveniences including 1,000m2 of meeting and event space, a business centre, a luxury spa and swimming pool as well as two restaurants and two bars. Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, Europe and Africa, Hilton Worldwide, said, “I am delighted to join with Transcorp Hotels, our 26-year partner at Transcorp Hilton Abuja, to introduce our famous Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand to Lagos.” Rob Palleschi, global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, added, “We are confident that Transcorp Hilton Lagos will help to reinforce our reputation as the stylish, forward thinking global leader of hospitality, helping make travelling easier with our smart design, innovative restaurant concepts, authentic hospitality and commitment to the global community.”
BWI Steps up Indonesian Expansion Best Western International (BWI) has mapped out an extensive and fast-paced expansion plan for Indonesia, which will see the company more than double the size of its current portfolio across the country. Currently BWI has five hotels open and operational in Indonesia and with a pipeline of 26 more properties, the company expects to be able to offer at least 31 hotels by 2015, increasing the total inventory from just over 700 rooms to more than 6,000. The upcoming properties include BEST WESTERN PREMIER Sunset Road Kuta, along with five more hotels in Jakarta, and other hotels in key emerging cities, such as Samarinda, Bogor, Pontianak and Malang. Commenting on the timing of the expansion, Glenn de Souza, vice president, international operations, Asia and Middle East, BWI, said, “Right now we are standing at an incredibly important period in the history of Indonesia. Across the country, disposable income is rising and demand for travel is increasing. “BWI is in Indonesia for the long-term, and we plan to form lasting relationships here, both with our guests and industry partners,” outlined de Souza.
BEST WESTERN PREMIER Sunset Road Kuta
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WHO'S MOVED
Kamel Ajami
Shahan Panossian Shahan Panossian has taken on the position of director of sales at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG)’s cluster office in Jordan. Panossian, who has over 11 years of experience in the hospitality industry, began his career with an internship at Le Richemond Hotel in Switzerland in 2003, then moved to
Amman Marriott Hotel in Jordan where he completed another internship, earning him the front desk agent position. He then joined InterContinental Jordan, working most recently as acting director of sales. In his new role, Panossian will oversee the sales of IHG’s five properties in the Kingdom.
Kamel Ajami has recentlybeen appointed to the newly created position of country manager for Jordan at Hilton Worldwide. Industry veteran Ajami brings over three decades of experience to the role, in which he will play a central part in the company’s growth and expansion in the region. In his posi-
Rashid Al Gaoud Rashid Al Gaoud has been named Gulf Air’s country manager for the UK. Al Gaoud, who has a solid background in sales and marketing, started his career with the airline in 2003, and has since held a number of positions at various locations on the carrier’s network, including in Bahrain, Doha, Jeddah, and the UK. Al Gaoud brings extensive knowledge in sales, marketing, and operations to the
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position, in which he will be responsible for driving the commercial performance of Gulf Air in the UK building on the existing strong relationships with the airline’s general sales agent and key travel agents and corporates.
Rashid Al Gaoud started his career with Gulf Air in 2003
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tion, he will oversee all operational matters and support Hilton Worldwide’s growth plans in addition to exploring new opportunities in the Kingdom where the company currently operates two properties, including King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Centre by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Aqaba.
Mohamed El Keiy Mohamed El Keiy has assumed the position of director of sales at Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh. A Four Seasons veteran, El Keiy has spent more than 12 years in the business. He joined Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts in 2006 as sales manager at the resort and was twice recognised by the company’s Presidents Club before being promoted to regional senior sales manager for the European team for all four
Four Seasons properties in Egypt in 2011. His hard work and commitment saw him rising to the position of director of sales for the European team in May this year. In his new role, he is looking forward to bringing innovative sales and marketing solutions to the business.
El Keiy has spent more than 12 years in the business
travel talk is your space
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TRAVEL TALK Kinan Al Ghraoui
Fady Abi Khalil
General manager, Villa Rotana, Rihab Rotana and Rimal Rotana.
General manager, Golden Tulip Seeb Muscat.
“Five years already and [we] still have much to do with Rashid Paediatric Therapy Centre students. Villa Rotana, Rihab Rotana and Rimal Rotana are always committed to support young students with special needs and make them get familiar with a real work environment [through work training at the hotels]. Together, we must put the most vulnerable at the heart of our actions to achieve a better life for all.”
“The main markets for business are Europe and the MENA region. As for tourism, it is Europe for Golden Tulip Seeb and Tulip Inn Muscat. As for Golden Tulip Khasab and Dibba, we have many bookings from Dubai and Abu Dhabi for weekends and we have the German and Polish market as those resorts are located on the beach. With massive government support, we have witnessed [the emergence of] new markets over the past few years.”
Saleem Amanullah
Colm McLoughlin
General manager, airport services, Oman Air.
Executive vice chairman, Dubai Duty Free.
“We are delighted to welcome those members of staff who have just joined Oman Air and we congratulate those who have been appointed to new positions. It is particularly satisfying for the Sultanate of Oman’s national airline that all the new appointees are Omani nationals. This is testament to the long-term, strategic vision of Oman Air’s management, which has resulted in Omanis with the appropriate qualifications and experience taking up senior positions within the airline.”
“I am delighted to accept [the CEO of the Year] award [at the 3rd Asian Leadership Awards] and dedicate it to our chairman, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and to all of our management and staff. I have been very fortunate to head up an organisation that has been at the very heart of the business and aviation community here in Dubai for the past three decades.”
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
19 OCTOBER 2013
AGENT'S CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Mohamad Fakih POSITION: Managing director COMPANY: Concord Travel and Tourism International
LOCATION: Lebanon WEB: www.bookingconcord.com
Who are you? I am Mohamad Fakih the managing director of Concord Travel and Tourism International. I was introduced into the tourism business by my father in1975, when he started a travel and tourism business from Sidon in Lebanon. I have developed the company from 1990 to be one of the best tour operators in Lebanon with a good reputation in the tourism industry markets. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? I believe it is the hospitality which reflects the character of the people. When is the best time to visit Lebanon? As Lebanon is a favourite country for many people, you can visit it all year round, because of the different four seasons and each season’s uniqueness. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday?? I wish to spend my holidays in the Maldives. Why should people come to you for travel advice? People trust our services because of our good reputation and our highly proficient team which can offer true reasonable services for every budget, as well as good follow-up to assure that guests are satisfied with all services that we provide.
Triumphal Arch of Tyre, Lebanon
19 OCTOBER 2013
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Jet Airways Reiterates its Commitment to Travelport Travelport has signed a new multi-year content agreement with Indian airline, Jet Airways, further strengthening the two companies’ existing ties. The renewal of the previous deal allows continued access to the India-based carrier and its wholly owned subsidiary, Jet Lite’s most up-to-date route information and published fares for Travelport-connected travel agents worldwide. Expressing delight at the continued collaboration with Jet Airways Group, Damian Hickey, vice president, global distribution, sales and services, Asia Pacific, Travelport, highlighted the region-
al opportunities in India where following some recent instability, the airline industry continues to show signs of recovery. “We look forward to working collaboratively with both Jet Airways and Jet Lite over the coming years, and supporting their evolving distribution needs,” commented Hickey. Sudheer Raghavan, chief commercial officer, Jet Airways, added, “We are pleased to extend our agreement with Travelport as they have consistently provided us with superior services and innovative technology to efficiently deliver Jet Airways Group’s offering to travel agents globally.
Seychelles Tourism Office Hosts Fam Trip A trip was recently organised by the Seychelles Tourism Office Middle East in collaboration with Emirates from September 23 – 28, for a group of agents from UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and Qatar. Part of the itinerary was to visit hotels that they currently sell as well as discover new establishments which are suitable to their clientele according to their budget and needs. “Our vision is to become the Indian Ocean destination of choice for all Middle Eastern travellers thus educating and supporting the travel trade is a vital part to ensure that we equip them with knowledge and information to assist them in serving the travel needs of their clients to the Seychelles,” said Ahmed Fathallah, regional manager, Seychelles Tourism Office Middle East. Visiting Agents
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TRAVEL CHANNELS New UNWTO Campaign Calls on Tourists to Make a Difference
Organised jointly by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the French government, a conference on sustainable development of tourism in islands was recently held.
H
aving taken place between September 11-13, at the Indian Ocean island of Réunion, issues addressed included sustainable tourism development, climate change, connectivity, branding, and the role of regional cooperation. The natural attractiveness of islands has led to a strong increase in tourism demand, with this pressure causing damages to the natural environment, and therefore reconciling tourism and environmental preservation is the main challenge of small Islands, explained Pascal Faure, head, directorate general for competitiveness, industry and services, Ministry of Handicraft, Trade and Tourism, France.
Get Together Party at Ayla Hotel Ayla Hotel, Al Ain invited more than 35 partners to welcome new residents to the emirate and present their products and services. The annual event forms part of the hotel’s corporate social responsibility programme as Mohamed Soussan, general manager, Ayla Hotel, outlined. “We want to show residents they are not alone and that we would do our level best to help them integrate into the new life here. This new beginning is a chance for great achievements and Ayla is happy to be a stepping stone.” The event welcomed partners from various industries, including the tourism and travel segment, health care, financial services and banks, car dealers, and renta-car companies, among others, and was also supported by Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority.
Sharjah Presents Fashion Exhibition
Middle East Airlines’ Profit to Reach USD1.6 Billion
Sharjah Museums Department (SMD), in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Information, has organised ‘The Lure of Beauty’ at Sharjah Art Museum with 350 fashion illustrations and photographs from the renowned Martin Fervers collection, which documents 100 years of fashion from the early part of the 20th century to the turn of the millennium. Commenting on the event Manal Ataya, director general, SMD, said, “We hope this exhibition will bring a new audience of people that are interested in fashion but also in photography and art. The ‘Lure of Beauty’ features a unique collection of fashion illustrations and photographs that demonstrate the dynamic role fashion plays in illustrating the culture of human communities.”
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects Middle Eastern carriers to post profits of USD1.6 billion for this year, marginally ahead of the USD1.5 billion previously forecast. As IATA’s latest report highlights, the Middle East’s efficient hubs continue to support strong performance on long-haul markets and passenger demand is set to soar 10.5 percent, the strongest among all regions, this however will be outstripped by capacity increases of 11.3 percent. Globally, airline performance continued to improve in the second quarter of the year at a slower pace than previously expected, reflecting the impact on demand of the oil spike and disappointing growth in several key markets, thus IATA has revised its annual global industry outlook downwards to USD11.7 billion on revenues of USD708 billion. Nonetheless, airlines are expected to see a significant boost in 2014 with profits reaching USD16.4 billion on revenues totalling USD743 billion.
Jens Goethel Photo
19 OCTOBER 2013
RENDEZVOUS
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Q & A with Mubarak Al Nuaimi Mubarak Al Nuaimi, director, promotions and overseas offices, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), expounds the idea behind the Golf in Abu Dhabi initiative.
Travel Trade Weekly: What makes Abu Dhabi an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts? Mubarak Al Nuaimi: One word perfectly summises Abu Dhabi’s golf tourism proposition: diversity. With three award-winning championship courses within a 20-minute drive of the capital’s tourist-laden Corniche beachfront, a unique sand golf facility, an 18-hole garden course in our heritage heartland of Al Ain, and an inner-city urban facility, the emirate boasts playing experiences for every type of golfer. With year-round sunshine and virtually no rainfall, the emirate’s climate is ready-made for golf; plus, Abu Dhabi’s maturing position as an international aviation hub, largely driven by Etihad Airways, ensures connectivity from all corners of the globe. Additionally, a first-rate product-base of leisure and cultural attractions and world-class portfolio of accommodation options provide exciting add-ons for golf tourists and help set Abu Dhabi apart from other ‘golf-only’ destinations. Travel Trade Weekly: How has the popularity of golf changed over the past decade? Mubarak Al Nuaimi: Golf in Abu Dhabi is more popular than ever and in the first five months of the year, our clubs reported 127 percent growth in rounds played by overseas visitors. Simply put, consumers are placing greater emphasis on value of experience and Abu Dhabi’s diverse proposition is clearly delivering on its promise and leaving guests with a feeling of deep satisfaction and money well spent. […] Travel Trade Weekly: How can sports events help promote the destination?
19 OCTOBER 2013
Mubarak Al Nuaimi Director, promotions and overseas offices, TCA Abu Dhabi
Mubarak Al Nuaimi: Abu Dhabi’s exciting calendar of top-tier sporting events – such as January’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship – continue to put the emirate in the international shop window and highlight our credentials as a leading venue for global sports events. Every year, we host the world’s media during events and this coverage helps promote the destination and encourages visitors to come and experience Abu Dhabi for themselves. Ultimately, there are few better ways to capture the imagination of a captive sports audience than via world-class events […]. Travel Trade Weekly: What makes sport tourism a highly important segment? Mubarak Al Nuaimi: Sport is a universal language and hosting world-class, international events which appeal to a vast cross-
section of global spectators is an integral pillar of the emirate’s tourism development and marketing strategies. Due to the huge popularity of sport internationally, a multitude of followers, competitors and fans can be engaged through events and activation programmes. Abu Dhabi has partnered with many great sporting entities, leveraged them to our advantage and, ultimately, created strong consumer demand. However, it is not just about the event and we have worked hard to create a tourism product-base which ensures a diverse array of experiences are available both pre- and postthe event itself. The way we have positioned golf in Abu Dhabi as a mechanism to roll-out and promote ‘play, stay and watch’ packages around the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship illustrates this strategy. The championship is the bait but we offer tournament visitors a seven-day package which lets them experience world-class golf and much, much more. Again, the key driver here is diversity. Travel Trade Weekly: Please tell us about your plans for the remainder of the year. Mubarak Al Nuaimi: We are currently preparing for the key golf sales months and are progressing several exciting promotions for our 2014 Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship. [...] Golf in Abu Dhabi will exhibit at a number of key travel trade shows in coming months, including the World Travel Market and International Golf Travel Market, while Matteo Manassero, our hugely-successful global golf ambassador, will continue promoting the emirate’s golf tourism proposition [...]. Abu Dhabi's golf tourism sector is not simply growing, it is positively thriving.
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NEWS & EVENTS
EIBTM: 75 New Buyer Groups This year’s Global Meetings & Events Expo (EIBTM), which will take place on November 19 21 in Barcelona, is expected to see the attendance of 75 new hosted buyer groups. As Joanna Warr, hosted buyer manager, EIBTM, Reed Travel Exhibitions, revealed, besides 53 European groups, 22 long-haul groups have also decided to sign up for the event, including the first one from Japan representing Marriott International. “We have also recruited a further four groups from Brazil and we have welcomed three new groups from Russia, who will attend in addition to the 26 groups whom we already accommodate,” explained Warr, adding that the increase in buyer interest demonstrates the success of the programme and the value it provides for each of the buyers attending. “A lot of the new groups we have attending this year are extensions on groups brought in previous years. We are working with each of our group-coordinators to help them extend their global buyer network and to build stronger relationships,” concluded Warr.
Sharjah Welcomes German Delegation The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) invited representatives of 10 leading travel and tour operators from Germany for a familiarisation trip, underlining the authority’s keenness to step up the promotion of the emirate in the crucial German market. As H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, director general, SCTDA, explained, by hosting the German delegation the authority is looking to more proactively promote the emirate’s distinct cultural tourism experience in the German market, attracting more German tourists and further strengthening the bonds of cooperation between the two tourism destinations. Al Midfa also drew attention to the remarkable development witnessed in recent years in the Eastern region in general and the city of Khorfakkan in particular, where the availability of water and adventure sports and beach activities, has lately been the focus of a number of high-end investments and infrastructure developments. German Delegation
EVENTS International Tourism Bourse (ITB) Asia Singapore, Singapore, October 23 – 25, 2013 (www.itb-asia.com) A three-day business-to-business trade show and convention where exhibitors meet with top international buyers.
EMEA Hospitality Summit Montreux, Switzerland, November 11 – 13, 2013 (www.hospitalitysummit.com) A premium forum bringing elite buyers and sellers together from across Europe, Middle East and Asia.
Ukraine International Travel Market (UITM) Kiev, Ukraine, October 23 – 25, 2013 (www.ukraine-itm.com.ua) Hailed as the season’s largest event for professionals in Ukraine, UITM enables participants to showcase their offers to thousands of visitors.
International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) Costa Daurada, Spain, November 11 – 14, 2013 (www.igtm.co.uk) Exclusively organised for the golf travel industry, the show is set to attract over 600 suppliers from 55 nations.
Saudi Conventions & Exhibitions Forum Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, November 3 – 4, 2013 (www.saudicef.com) The Kingdom’s leading conference and exhibition for the MICE industry with over 700 stakeholders of the Saudi and regional sector.
The Global Meetings & Events Expo (EIBTM) Barcelona, Spain, November 19 - 21, 2013 (www.eibtm.com) An annual event for the meetings, incentives, conferences, events and business travel industry, where exhibitors can connect with a global visitor audience.
World Travel Market (WTM) London, UK, November 4 – 7, 2013 (www.wtmlondon.com) WTM is a vibrant must-attend business-to-business event presenting a diverse range of destinations and industry sectors to close to 50,000 travel professionals.
International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Cannes, France, December 2 – 5, 2013 (www.iltm.net) A leading ‘by invitation only’ event for the global luxury travel community, held annually in Cannes. 19 OCTOBER 2013