28 SEPTEMBER 2013
ISSUE 203
Mall of the Emirates: USD272 Million Redevelopment Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates is to go through an AED1 billion (USD272 million) expansion project, called Evolution 2015.
Conrad Dubai has opened its doors, marking the luxury brand’s entry into the region.
03 flydubai to Connect Dubai and Chisinau flydubai is to launch direct services to Chisinau, Moldova, on November 20, offering the first direct link between Dubai and the capital city.
09 IN THIS ISSUE WEEKLY NEWS MARKET UPDATE ACCOMMODATION AIR INTERNATIONAL WHO’S MOVED TRAVEL TALK AGENT’S CORNER TRAVEL CHANNELS RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS
03 04 05 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Conrad Hotels & Resorts Debuts in the UAE
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WEEKLY NEWS Abu Dhabi Gears up for MICE Events Abu Dhabi is playing host to two major international meetings initiatives, further propelling the emirate’s business events ambitions. Hosted by Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau and Etihad Airways, the Conference & Incentive Travel Middle East Forum is set to bring 40 key UK senior level event buyers and professional MICE organisers, all of which have a minimum budget of GBP150,000 (USD237,000) to spend in the Middle East, and 20 suppliers to the UAE capital, between September 29 - 30. In addition, running between September 29 - October 2, the council meeting of the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO), hosted by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority and Abi Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, is also set to further push the emirate’s credentials as a congress destination while allowing stakeholders to benefit from the IAPCO members’ vast experience.
Heritage and Historic Projects Drive Investment in Medina Medina province continues to witness a number of programmes and tourism and heritage projects that are set to transform the region into a major tourism destination boasting unique tourism, historic, and environmental potentials. The Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA) has undertaken various activities and projects to preserve the urban heritage of the area and attract tourism investment to the province under the umbrella of the Al Madina Tourism Development Council. SCTA’s Medina branch is currently carrying out rehabilitation works in a number of tourism and heritage sites including Al Ula Heritage Village, Mosa bin Nusair Castle, Yanbu Historic Center Sur Quarter.
BBC Worldwide and Gulf Air Partner
Mall of the Emirates Undergoes USD272 Million Redevelopment Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates (MOE) is to go through an AED1 billion (USD272 million) expansion project, called Evolution 2015, that will further enhance the centre’s overall shopping experience. The multistage programme will include the enlargement of the luxury retail concepts as well as the cinema multiplex, and the introduction of a new fashion district and sports and leisure precinct. Slated for completion in early 2014, phase one focuses on the new AED100 million (USD27 million) district which will house more than 30 international stores along with cafés, while by 2015, a quarter of MOE will bring shoppers several new brands and concepts. According to Dimitri Vazelakis, executive managing director, shopping malls, Majid Al Futtaim Properties, the new additions to the mall foster the UAE’s wider aspirations towards Dubai Fashion 2020.
28 SEPTEMBER 2013
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In-flight Entertainment
BBC Worldwide, the commercial arm of BBC, has announced Gulf Air as the Middle Eastern launch airline of BBC Knowledge, a channel featuring factual and non-fiction content. Available through the airline’s in-flight entertainment system, the channel will showcase world-class experts and will be rolling out across Gulf Air’s fleet of 26 aircraft in the coming weeks. “We are delighted to be launching BBC Knowledge on Gulf Air and to be part of its branded channel line-up onboard,” commented Zina Neophytou, director, travel and special markets, BBC Worldwide. According to Nasser Al Salmi, chief operating officer, Gulf Air, the addition of BBC Knowledge to the carrier’s in-flight entertainment system will further enhance on-board entertainment offering passengers access to high-quality content.
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MARKET UPDATE
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel COPY EDITOR
Passenger Traffic Growth Slows Global air passenger traffic growth flattened in July compared to the previous months, as the Airports Council International (ACI)’s report shows.
A
Stefanie Saghbini SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba
sia Pacific continued to lead, recording a 5.9 percent year-on-year improvement, overall global growth, however, stood at 2.2 percent with the Middle East and Africa registering a 1.6 percent rise after welcoming some 11.72 million passengers across the region’s airports. Meanwhile, global air freight traffic climbed 0.6 percent with the Middle East reporting a 2.3
JOURNALIST Maria Kazeli PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou DIRECTORS
percent growth for the month. “The overall retreat in domestic demand across the Euro area and other advanced economies is revealed in the data with weaker growth in air transport demand resulting in a drop from annualised growth of five percent in 2011 to below three percent [this year],” noted Rafael Echevarne, director, economic and programme development, ACI World.
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
Kuwait: Slight Growth in Occupancy
WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of
27/09/2013 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
1,510.50
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
135.60
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.28
Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.38
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.65
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.30
Iran (IRR)
Riyal
24,815.00
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.87
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
81.79
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.25
Hotel Missoni Kuwait
During the month of July, occupancy levels rose 0.7 percentage points to 42.8 percent in Kuwait, the latest HotStats report released by TRI Hospitality Consulting, shows. Meanwhile, RevPAR fell 2.2 percent to USD101.02, driven by a decline in average room rate of 3.8 percent to USD236.15. The positive improvement in occupancy however contributed to a 13.9 percent improvement in total RevPAR to USD245.86, nonetheless, higher operating costs suppressed bottom line profits which dropped 16.4 percent to USD60.2.
Jeddah Hotels Benefit during Ramadan
J
eddah’s four- and five-star hotels continued to register strong growth, with performance levels in July exceeding year-to-date levels based on TRI Hospitality Consulting’s HotStats report. Driven by an increased demand from religious travellers, occupancy levels reached 81.2 percent, and Jeddah was also the only
market surveyed by HotStats to witness positive RevPAR growth, which rose 11.6 percent to USD214.75. This metric was propelled by a 15.3 percent surge in average room rates (ARR) to USD264.48, which also helped the destination achieve the highest profit margins among the seven markets examined in the analysis. 28 SEPTEMBER 2013
Accommodation
Four Seasons Hotel Amman Launches Airport Lounge Guests staying at Four Seasons Hotel Amman can now look forward to five-star hospitality from the moment they land in the Jordanian capital city. Those booking the hotel’s meet and assist service will enjoy a hassle-free and smooth glide through the airport, and access to the newly opened Four Seasons Hotel Amman Lounge. Located at Queen Alia International Airport Terminal 1 baggage claim arrivals hall, the 17m2 lounge has been designed to offer guests a quite spot where they can relax or enjoy refreshments while waiting for their luggage. “Consistently exceeding expectations is a Four Seasons hallmark across the world, and it is this quality of consistency that has won us the loyalty of our guests,” Livio Faverio, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Amman, stated.
Four Seasons Hotel Amman
Iberotel Coraya Unveils CouplesOnly Concept Jaz Hotels and Resorts has decided to apply the couplesonly concept to the Iberotel Coraya Beach Resort, following the success of the idea in a number of the company’s properties across Sharm El Sheikh. Overlooking the unspoiled, private beach and the entire bay, Iberotel Coraya Beach Resort has undergone some remodelling to better cater to its new concept, with all rooms said to have been designed to provide the maximum in luxury, comfort, and total privacy for couples. Guests can also treat themselves to a meal at the hotel’s main restaurant with options for indoors or outdoors dining overlooking the gardens, beach and swimming pool.
28 SEPTEMBER 2013
WEEKLY NEWS
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Elaf Group Renews Partnership with Bangladeshi Airline Biman Bangladesh Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, has announced the renewal of its partnership agreement with Elaf Group, as its general sales agent (GSA) for the next three years. Under the terms of the agreement, the group will continue to serve as Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ GSA for the western region of Saudi Arabia, handling marketing, operations, and reservations. Since 1998, when the partnership launched for the first time, the national carrier has witnessed an increased market share for flights covering the Bangladesh to Saudi western region route. Commenting on the agreement, Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, CEO, Elaf Group, said, “This is testament to Biman [Bangladesh] Airlines’ continued trust and confidence in Elaf Aviation’s ability to successfully market their services. We look forward to working more closely with Biman Airlines and pursuing further success as partners.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
DAMAC Properties Awards Contract for DAMAC Towers by Paramount DAMAC Properties has awarded the Dubai branch of Turkish firm, TAV Tepe Akfen Investment Construction and Operation, with a 33-month construction contract worth some AED1 billion (USD272.25 million), for its DAMAC Towers by Paramount project. Located in the Burj Area of Dubai, the development will comprise four towers, one of which will house a Paramount Hotel with the remaining three towers featuring DAMAC Maison-Paramount co-branded serviced hotel residences. The towers, each stretching 250m vertically, will be connected by a multi-level plaza, offering an eclectic selection of themed food and beverage concepts, meeting and events facilities, a screening room, wellness and fitness centres, swimming pools, kids’ club, retail, and merchandise all featuring the Paramount brand or other select partners brands.
Dream Dubai to Become the World’s Tallest Hotel Development US-based Hampshire Hotels Management has signed an agreement with Dubai-based developer, Sheffield Holdings, to bring the company’s Dream lifestyle hotel brand to Dubai. Part of the mega project known as Marina 101, Dream Dubai Marina is bound to become the world’s tallest hotel development and will feature 300 guest rooms and 420 branded serviced apartments, which will be managed by Hampshire Hotels Management in association with Wyndham Hotel Group, the global expansion partner for the Dream brand. Slated for opening in the fourth quarter of 2014, the hotel will also house six restaurants and lounges, multiple retail entities, two pools, two spas, gyms, and a nightclub occupying the 101st floor. According to the management, the launch of Dream Dubai Marina is set to signify the first true lifestyle hotel opening in the UAE and will be accompanied by other openings in the Dream pipeline in the UAE as well as India.
Sofitel Adds to Saudi Portfolio Saudi company, Al Tamiuz Hotels & Resorts has awarded the management contract to Sofitel for a new five-star property in Jeddah. Slated for opening in 2014, Sofitel Jeddah is located on the Corniche offering easy access to the city’s airport and appealing to a diverse mix of clientele, including international business travellers, the MICE segment, and domestic leisure guests. Besides 189 rooms and suites, it will also feature six food and beverage outlets, various meeting facilities with large pre-function and lounge areas, two swimming pools, a health club, spa, squash court, cinema hall and a dedicated area for children, just to name a few. According to Robert Gaymer Jones, CEO, Sofitel, the Middle East holds great potential for the company.
Landmark Amman Hotel & Conference Center Utilises Solar Energy In a bid to reduce its carbon footprint, Landmark Amman Hotel & Conference Center has installed solar panels to generate electricity and power it Venue Hall. The move marks another step in the hotel’s ongoing efforts to converse energy and cut back on its non-renewable energy usage. “We are conscious of the importance of continuity in environmental initiatives; therefore, the solar panel initiative supports our other activities in this regard,” noted Ibrahim Karajeh, general manager, Landmark Amman Hotel & Conference Center, adding that the recent renovation of the management offices was aimed to better utilise natural daylight and minimise electricity consumption during peak hours, when the city needs it the most, while the majority of the hotel has already been equipped with LED lights.
Landmark Amman Hotel & Conference Center
28 SEPTEMBER 2013
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WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
Conrad Hotels & Resorts Debuts in the UAE Conrad Dubai has opened its doors, marking the luxury brand’s entry into the region. Located amid upscale living in the emirate’s business and shopping district, just 10 minutes from the downtown area, the hotel features 555 rooms, an exclusive 5,500m2 pool oasis, fitness and spa facilities, a host of dining outlets, and what is being hailed as the city’s largest meeting and event space spanning 4,400m2, which includes two ballrooms, three boardrooms, a business centre, and 11 individual meeting rooms. John Vanderslice, global head, luxury and lifestyle brands, Hilton Worldwide, described the hotel as a stunning addition to the company’s global luxury portfolio and a perfect fit within Dubai’s glamorous downtown lifestyle.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara Launches New Activities Starting from October, guests staying at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara will be able to participate in three new exclusive desert activities, including land sailing to a traditional desert hunting experience alongside local Bedouins, sunrise and sunset dune biking, and land sailing across the dry valleys of the Empty Quarter. In addition, visitors can also enjoy Saluki and Falcon shows inspired from the indigenous desert hunting experience. The exclusive adventure activities have all been developed to showcase the unique facilities of the destination along with the surrounding beauty of Abu Dhabi’s Liwa desert.
Conrad Dubai
Activities at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
IHG Expands in Turkey InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) continues to strengthen its presence in Turkey with the signing of its 16th hotel in the country; Holiday Inn Diyarbakir – City Center. Slated to open in 2015, the 161-room hotel will be converted from an existing building and is set to feature a gym, spa, bar, restaurant, five meeting rooms, and a banqueting area on the roof terrace. Expressing excitement for the company’s first project in the south eastern city, Yalin Yaltirakli, development director, Turkey, IHG, said, “The Holiday Inn brand continues to gain momentum across Europe as owners are increasingly taking advantage of development opportunities in expanding business regions that lie beyond a country’s capital.”
28 SEPTEMBER 2013
Air
WEEKLY NEWS
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Qatar Airways to Join oneworld
Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways (middle)
Qatar Airways is set to become a full member of the oneworld alliance on October 30, after successfully completing a thorough review of its readiness just one year after its invitation to join. As of October 30, Qatar Airways will offer oneworld’s full range of services and benefits, while at the same time the three million members of the airline’s Privilege Club loyalty programme will also enjoy frequent flyer advantages whenever they fly with any member airline. Qatar Airways’ entry into oneworld, will add more than 20 new destinations and five countries to the group’s map and will significantly improve connectivity between many of the destinations that are important to travellers, as Bruce Ashby, CEO, oneworld, explained.
flydubai to Connect Dubai and Chisinau flydubai is to launch direct services to Chisinau, Moldova, on November 20, offering the first direct link between Dubai and the capital city. As Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai, explained, the new route continues the carrier’s commitment to connecting underserved markets. “Chisinau marks our 45th destination that did not previously have direct air links to Dubai served by a UAE national carrier,” he noted, adding that Chisinau will offer flydubai’s passengers another route into Europe, where the airline’s network has grown to 17 destinations since its first flight in 2010.
BAC Acquires Facility Management Company Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) has confirmed the full acquisition of HOCHTIEF Facility Management Bahrain (HTFMBA) and the buyout of the 50 percent shares in the joint venture. As Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, CEO, BAC, explained, the deal comes after HOCHTIEF Services Solutions has been offered for sale internationally following a restructuring exercise which the company has been carrying out. “We closely monitor the market trends and opportunities that enable us in fulfilling our commitment to service excellence,” Al Binfalah continued, adding that he envisions valuable business potential following this acquisition.
28 SEPTEMBER 2013
Cathedral in Downtown Chisinau
Qatar Airways Partners with BA on Miles Scheme Qatar Airways and British Airways (BA) have entered into a frequent flyer partnership whereby Qatar Airways Privilege Club and BA Executive Club members will be able to earn and redeem miles on flights carried out by either airline as of October 1. “Passengers of both airlines travelling to and from the UK, Africa, Australia, and Asia now have more flexibility and frequency when they route trip through Doha as Qatar Airways flies five flights daily to London Heathrow Airport,” explained Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways. Privilege Club members may redeem their Qmiles for award tickets, excess baggage, or merchandise through Qatar Duty Free located at the departures, arrivals, and the Premium Terminal of Doha International Airport and Oryx Galleria, Doha.
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WEEKLY NEWS
International
Dusit Fudu Signs for dusitD2 Shaoxing The newly-established joint venture hotel management company Dusit Fudu Hotels and Resorts has announced the management of a new project in China, dusitD2 Shaoxing, owned and developed by Zhejiang Guannan Property Development. The new hotel, located in the prime commercial centre of Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, is scheduled for a soft opening in the fourth quarter of 2014, and will comprise 280 guestrooms, 20 suites, and a wealth of unique facilities, including an array of restaurants, as well as Dusit’s signature Devarana Spa. Lou Wei Ming, general manager, Zhejiang Guannan Property Development, said, “We are certain that by bringing Dusit’s unparalleled brand of Thai graciousness to Shaoxing, this new dusitD2 hotel will set a benchmark of service, quality, and excellence in the local hospitality industry.”
MHG to Start Investment in Africa Minor Hotel Group (MHG) has announced the formation of a long-term strategic partnership agreement with Rani Investment, the owner of high-end resorts across Africa, with which it will join for ownership of Indigo Bay Resort & Spa, Mozambique. The property, a five-star, 44-villa resort, which will be rebranded to Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort & Spa later this year and managed by MHG, is located on Bazaruto Island, 30km off the east coast of the country. The new partnership will also explore more opportunities in Mozambique, including in the capital, Maputo, as well as in the vibrant East Africa market to further strengthen MHG’s presence on the continent. Bazaruto Island
IHG Opens Second Hotel in Cuernavaca InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Inmobiliaria GEEMAJI have announced the opening of the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Cuernavaca, Mexico, which was celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by guests spanning the political and tourism sectors. Located in one of the main avenues of the city, the hotel features a contemporary image with a redesigned logo and signage, laying emphasis on arrival and welcome services, guestrooms, and bath comfort. The 124-room Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Cuernavaca, which includes 20 junior suites, boasts panoramic city views, a fully equipped fitness centre, a meeting room, a heated swimming pool, and covered and open parking, to name a few.
dusitD2 Shaoxing
Centara Hotels & Resorts Expands in Phuket Centara Hotels & Resorts has signed a management contract with Adler Group for its second Centara Hotels & Resorts-branded hotel in Phuket, further strengthening the company’s presence on the vacation island. Spanning 6,500m2, Centara Bangtao Resort Phuket is slated for opening in August 2016, and will feature 150 rooms, a restaurant, a Cense by Spa Cenvaree, a minigym, a business corner, a swimming pool, and a kids’ corner. As Thirayuth Chirathivat, CEO, Centara Hotels & Resorts, noted, Bangtao, which is set on one of the island’s longest beaches, has become very popular with visitors. “This gives us the opportunity to expand the range of our Centara brand in Phuket, where we at present have one other Centara property, in Patong, which is very successful. The new hotel will be our eighth property on the island, which indicates the strength of our confidence in Phuket as a world-class tourism destination,” Chirathivat added.
28 SEPTEMBER 2013
WHO'S MOVED
Mike Rock
Soma Ali Soma Ali has been appointed senior sales manager at Concorde by Mourouj Fujairah. Ali has over nine years of experience in the industry and has previously served a number of properties in the UAE. Over the years, she has gained valuable knowledge in the fields of sales strategies, sales force development, and establishing business connections.
In Fujairah, she will be responsible for maximising revenue by using all hotel tools and facilities. In addition, she has also been tasked with the development of strong and well-planned sales strategies that can help achieve the sales target of the hotel.
Ali has over nine years of experience in the industry
Mike Rock has been named sales manager for Central Asia and the Levant at British Airways. Rock joined the airline in 2007 through its graduate development scheme, and from August 2012 up until his recent appointment, he was based in Korea, starting the carrier’s commercial operations in the country. In his new role, Rock will be
Michael Kappes Michael Kappes has joined Royal Rose Hotel Dubai as director of business development. Kappes started his career in the industry as an apprentice at Park Hotel Bremen in Germany and over the past 35 years, he has served a number of national and international hotel brands covering a range of sectors, including sales and marketing, front
28 SEPTEMBER 2013
office management and reservations. Previously, Kappes had successful postings in Sana’a, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Muscat with Sheraton Hotels & Resorts and InterContinental Hotels Group. In his new position, he will lead and direct a team of 16 sales and revenue professionals to prepare for the successful opening of the property.
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managing the airline’s sales teams across Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, and Jordan, overseeing sales activities and supporting the carrier’s growth in the region. In addition, he will also be responsible for developing tailored solutions for corporate travellers, special sales offer for the region, while further strengthening the airline’s relationship with local travel agents.
Kim Kwanghee Kim Kwanghee has been appointed regional director at Korea Tourism Organization (KTO)’s Dubai office. Kwanghee, who has been associated with the organisation for 21 years, will be responsible for MENA as well as the CIS countries. Over the past two decades, he has gained extensive experience at KTO, having worked in various departments, with
his most recent assignement including stints at KTO’s Singapore office where he covered five countries and was a member of the overseas marketing and planning team. His main responsibilities will include positioning the destination as a frontrunner for premium leisure travel, increase cultural and tourism exchange, media promotions, as well as trade interactions.
TRAVEL TALK
travel talk is your space
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Akbar Al Baker
Aurelio Giraudo
CEO, Qatar Airways.
General manager, The Regency Kuwait.
“In line with our commitment to offer our passengers the most exceptional travel experience, we are delighted to introduce Qatar Airways’ Dreamliner on two of our important Indian routes. The introduction of our Dreamliner service provides our passengers with an unbeatable level of service and comfort besides reiterating our firm belief in the 787s unrivalled capabilities and the value it will add to Qatar Airways’ plans to continue delivering on its promise of quality.”
“It is important that Kuwait attracts additional markets and segments, but it is equally important that it is the responsibility of the private sector and much as the government to move this development forward. Kuwait does have a leisure market which is growing and is recognised as a favourite for families. As an independently-owned and -operated Kuwaiti hotel, The Regency […] has a responsibility to play [its] part as a leader in sending the correct message to new markets..”
Ayman Ashor General manager, Tilal Liwa Hotel.
“Tilal Liwa Hotel is again set for the annual Oktoberfest. Guests at this year’s festival will be delighted by an endless supply of authentic Bavarian specialties including traditional dishes of Schnitzel, Sauerkraut, and Spaetzle [and beverages]. We join the German community in celebrating this fun-filled festival and if you could not make it to Germany this year, you can still make it to Tilal Liwa Hotel and experience authentic Bavarian food and entertainment.”
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
28 SEPTEMBER 2013
AGENT'S CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Mohsen Abdin POSITION: General manager COMPANY: Fly Well Travel LOCATION: Egypt WEB: www.flywellegypt.com
Who are you? I am Mohsen Abdin and I am an internal quality system auditor professional. I have been the general manager of Fly Well Travel for the past 14 years. Fly Well Travel is a privately-owned, Egyptian tour operator providing quality travel services in Egypt, to customers from every part of the world. We have over 26 years of experience in the regional travel industry, specialising in providing special interest and cultural tours all over Egypt. We are distinguished in the market by our high quality, tailor-made travel services and by a strong focus on secure, traditional values of heritages. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? Nothing is equal to seeing people happy by your arrangements. When is the best time to visit Egypt? Our wintertime is the best as we have sun all year around. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? In Egypt, to Hurghada, Luxor, and Aswan; out of Egypt, London is my love. Why should people come to you for travel advice? We apply quality systems, as we are a total quality management company, transparency, exposure, and competitive rates. We are established with a team of qualified professionals who have a wide range of tourism experience in Egypt over the years. Our extensive knowledge of the region allows us to offer journeys to the most beautiful landscapes combined with fascinating cultural and historical experiences, as well as exciting sport adventures.
28 SEPTEMBER 2013
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Travelport Cements Operator Partnership in Lebanon Travelport has announced the renewal of its long-term distribution agreements for Galileo and Worldspan global distribution systems (GDS) platforms in Lebanon. Under the new multi-year deal, Gate 7, representing Worldspan in the country and Travelport-Lebanon, will continue to distribute the technology provider’s products to the Lebanese travel industry. Mahmoud Ayache, owner, Gate 7, commented that in the 15 years as Travelport Worldspan distributor, the company focused on maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty by offering enhanced services as well
as new and innovative technology. According to Najwa Tarabah, managing director, Travelport-Lebanon, working closely with Travelport will take Galileo in Lebanon to the next stage through the winning combination of cutting edge technology, unrivalled customer support, and a deep understanding of the local travel industry.
Najwa Tarabah
First AfBAA Symposium Brings Together the African Aviation The first regional symposium of the African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA), which took place on September 26 - 27, at La Mamounia, Marrakech, Morocco, gathered together a large number of the African aviation industry’s leading figures. The event threw light on the importance and benefits that business aviation provides for the continent’s economic and social development, and included sessions focusing on Morocco’s role as a hub for aviation as well as what African operators should expect from the soon-to-be-implemented third country operator rules in Europe. A total of seven sessions were covered which discussed the challenges of working across the continent, bringing to surface certain debatable issues which are unique to Africa. The panels featured a stellar line-up of speakers, made up of over 25 leading industry figures from Africa and around the world making the symposium one of the largest in Africa this year in terms of speakers. In addition, with over 100 aviation delegates, the AfBAA symposium also encouraged networking during the breaks.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
SCTA and IATA Conduct Workshops Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA), in collaboration with International Air Transport Association (IATA), recently conducted a number of workshops in Saudi Arabia.
H
eld between September 24 - 26, the meetings were organised for professionals and other members under the travel and tourism umbrella and focused on a number of issues related to the industry, including the latest developments in the area of travel agencies and airlines as well as training and development opportunities in human resources as provided by the National Project for Tourism Human Resources Development of SCTA. Three hotels, namely Le Méridien Al Khobar, Riyadh Marriott Hotel, and Park Hyatt Jeddah – Marina, Club and Spa, were chosen as the venues for the workshops. IATA had also held a number of similar programmes on the sidelines of the Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market in April.
Abu Dhabi Welcomes Next Generation Tourism Ambassadors The fifth in Abu Dhabi’s annual Tourism Youth Summer Camp series, organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, in conjunction with the European International College (EIC), welcomed the participation of over 60 Emirati students, all aged between 15 and 17. During the three-week programme, the students took part in various workshops designed to boost their awareness of the tourism industry and its economic, social, and environmental impacts; embarked on field trips to better acquaint them with Abu Dhabi’s expanding tourism offering; and participated in team building exercises.
JTB Launches New Gastronomy Website
Al Gharbia Visitor Map Launched
In line with its endeavours to showcase the Kingdom’s diverse tourism product and promote niche segments, the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) has created a new microsite, introducing visitors to traditional culinary delights, recipes, and Jordanian customs. “We have been working to increase our connection with both our current fan base and our potential consumers by creating platforms that showcase more of what Jordan has to offer, in this case, Jordan’s gastronomy,” explained Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat, managing director, JTB, adding that by focusing on specialised interests, the organisations aims to demonstrate how relevant Jordan is to these niches, and foster the industry’s growth in the Kingdom. JTB also plans on creating more platforms by translating the website to several languages, and developing a brochure that will display the different gastronomical experiences within this niche, and promote Jordan as a food destination.
Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), in consultation with its stakeholders and the Western Region Development Council, has created a dedicated tourist map of Al Gharbia, allowing visitors to Abu Dhabi to easily explore some of the UAE’s most dramatic desert and coastal scenery. As Saeed Al Dhaheri, manager, customer service section, TCA Abu Dhabi, noted, Al Gharbia, which spans two-thirds of the emirate, is rapidly gaining popularity. “The map will help spread the message that there is much more to see and do in Al Gharbia. In fact visitors may be surprised by the area’s sheer diversity. We want to help attract more visitors to the region’s festivals and attractions, and increase average length of stay at its hotels,” Al Dhaheri said. The new map features 3D representations of attractions as well as a visual representation of the region’s accommodation options and highlights the most fascinating festivals and cultural events.
28 SEPTEMBER 2013
RENDEZVOUS
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Q & A with Christophe Schnyder Having recently welcomed its first guests, Sofitel The Palm Dubai Resort & Spa promises to become a unique addition to Dubai’s hotel scene and as Christophe Schnyder, general manager, Sofitel The Palm Dubai Resort & Spa, says, turn into one of the brand’s flagship resorts.
Travel Trade Weekly: As the new general manager of Sofitel The Palm Dubai, what are your main priorities? Christophe Schnyder: There are a few priorities at the moment as the hotel is newly opened. Firstly, to ensure that the property is handed over from the contractors in an optimal condition and then to iron out any issues relating to systems as swiftly as possible, in order to ensure a safe and pleasant environment for our guests. Secondly, to implement the Sofitel service brand standards to ensure consistent and standardised service to all our guests. Last but not least, we need to ensure that the product is positioned correctly in the market and that the sales and marketing strategy, which we have set in the pre-opening phase, is strictly implemented to achieve the desired results in terms of business levels and expected financial performance. Travel Trade Weekly: Flanked by a private beach stretching along 500m, the resort encompasses the true essence of Polynesian charm. What other tangible and intangible features make Sofitel The Palm Dubai Resort & Spa stand out? Christophe Schnyder: Sofitel The Palm Dubai is a resort in every sense of the word. The comments we are hearing over and over again is that the concept is definitely different from existing resorts in Dubai. The designers have managed to create the perfect environment for holidaymakers but also for the local community to escape from city’s hustle and bustle for a relaxing weekend. Furthermore,
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Christophe Schnyder General manager, Sofitel The Palm Dubai Resort & Spa.
the hotel offers fantastic meeting and conference facilities to host local and international events. Travel Trade Weekly: Besides 361 sophisticated island chic-inspired rooms and suites, the resort also features a number of fully serviced residences. In your opinion how important is it to offer such accommodation options in order to appeal to a broader pool of potential guests? Christophe Schnyder: Indeed, the hotel features 182 serviced apartments which will be rented on both a short- and long-term basis. Although we will only start operating them in September, we already have received significant interest from potential tenants, especially from the GCC market which is used to larger-thanusual accommodation, especially for families.
Travel Trade Weekly: With a number of projects under development and in the pipeline, the competition in Dubai’s hotel sector is expected to become increasingly fierce. What are today’s travellers seeking in particular when choosing a trusted hotel brand such as Sofitel? Christophe Schnyder: You are right; there are a significant number of projects under development and especially on The Palm. Competition is definitely going to increase, especially during the lower activity months. What we notice is that every hotel is creating packages at very attractive rates, sometimes at the verge of profitability, and counting on the incremental sales generated by guests once they are in the resort. Let us not forget that we have high quality facilities and that we are offering five-star services to our clientele; positioning the product too low can be detrimental to The Palm as a destination. Travel Trade Weekly: What is next for the management? Christophe Schnyder: The soft opening period was in July but we already reached 85 percent occupancy during the Eid period. The next objective is to get ready for 100 percent occupancy, including the apartments, which will happen in the latter part of October and throughout the winter season. The resort’s grand opening date has not been finalised yet but will happen during that period. [...] Sofitel is fortunate to be able to manage this great property; by all means, the largest in the company’s portfolio, but our aim is to position it as one of the group’s leading resorts worldwide.
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NEWS & EVENTS
ILTM Japan to Enjoy Second Edition Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE), organisers of the inaugural International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Japan, announced that the next event will take place once again at The Garden Oriental Kyoto, between March 17 - 19, 2014. ILTM Japan is expected to increase in size in its second edition following early demand from participants, while it is considered the only one of its kind in Japan that focuses on providing knowledge, connections, and business for buyers and suppliers of both international and domestic luxury travel products and services. “For international exhibitors, the lucrative high-end Japanese leisure traveller continues to seek bespoke luxury holidays and we provide each of our exhibitors with one-to-one appointments with Japanese buyers who are responsible for planning itineraries as well as tour programmes,” commented Alison Gilmore, exhibition director, ILTM portfolio, RTE, who explained that ILTM Japan earlier this year offered real insights into the country’s culture, history, and customs.
Abu Dhabi to Host Nuclear International Conference Abu Dhabi will play host to the New Nuclear International Conference, a major gathering of global experts focused on the development of peaceful nuclear energy. The event, which comes to the UAE-capital with the support of Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau, will take place between November 11 – 14 at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, and is expected to attract some 700 delegates. “The contact emerged from our inaugural MICE roadshow staged in the US earlier this year and we have been able to support it via our ‘Advantage Abu Dhabi’ meetings incentive programme,” explained H.E. Jassem Al Darmaki, deputy director general, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, adding that major conferences such as this are central to the authority’s endeavours to be listed, by the International Conventions and Congresses Association, among the top 50 meetings destinations within the next five years.
EVENTS 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.
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.
MICE Middle East Forum (MMEF) Dubai, UAE, October 1, 2013 (www.miceforumme.com) A must-attend event for professionals from all facets of the industry that are involved in conferences, corporate hospitality, cultural and sporting events and more.
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.
Cityscape Global Dubai, UAE, October 8 – 10, 2013 (www.cityscapeglobal.com) The 12th edition of the Middle East’s largest and most influential property event with more than 200 international and regional exhibitors.
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.
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