5 OCTOBER 2013
Development Continues on Lusail Marina Towers Katara Hospitality has announced the latest plans and developments for the iconic towers underway in the Marina District in Lusail City.
ISSUE 204
A glittering reception was held in the UAE capital commemorating the grand opening of Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, Dusit International’s fifth property in the Middle East.
04 RAK Airways Lands in Riyadh RAK Airways has launched scheduled services between Ras Al Khaimah and Riyadh, further strengthening the airline’s footprint in Saudi Arabia.
10 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE
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WEEKLY NEWS
03
ACCOMMODATION
04
AIR
09
WHO’S MOVED
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TRAVEL TALK
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AGENT’S CORNER
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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RENDEZVOUS
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NEWS & EVENTS
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Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Celebrates Grand Opening
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MARKET UPDATE
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba
Dubai: 23.3 Percent Surge in Occupancy
Driven by a 30.4 percent increase in demand, occupancy levels in Dubai rose by 23.3 percent to 72.6 percent, STR Global’s preliminary August data indicates.
T
JOURNALIST Maria Kazeli
he sharp rise in demand offset the 5.81 percent growth in supply, while average daily rate jumped 8.7 percent to AED753.16 (USD205.05) and RevPAR improved 34 percent to AED546.61 (USD148.82). As Naureen Ahmed, manager, marketing and analysis, STR Global, revealed, the com-
PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi
pany’s latest forecast reports anticipate an 11 percent RevPAR growth for year-end after strong results in 2011 and 2012. “Dubai has seen occupancy rates above 80 percent for the first five months of the year and demand will continue to outpace the growth of supply, solidifying its place as a desirable destination,” concluded Ahmed.
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
Jazeera Airways: 21 Percent Increase in Passenger Numbers
EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of
04/10/2013 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
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Bahrain (BHD)
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Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
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Kuwait (KWD)
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Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
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Tunisia (TND)
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Morocco (MAD)
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Iran (IRR)
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Yemen (YER)
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Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
81.40
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.24
Jazeera Airways
Jazeera Airways has recorded a 21 percent rise in flown passenger figures for the month of August, supported by notable growth in demand on a number of routes. Passenger volumes on the KuwaitMashhad route rose 62 percent, while figures on services operated to Beirut, Dubai, and Amman climbed 56, 55 and 54 percent, respectively. In addition, the low-cost carrier also retained its position as the market leader on a number of routes such as Sharm El Sheikh, Assiut, Luxor and Sohag.
Jeddah Hotels Benefit during Ramadan
J
eddah’s four- and five-star hotels continued to register strong growth, based on TRI Hospitality Consulting’s HotStats report for July. Driven by strong 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, propelled by a 15.3 percent surge in average room rates (ARR) to USD264.48. In Riyadh a marginal increase in ARR to USD219 was insufficient to negate the 4.2 percentage point decline in occupancy to 43.9 percent which drove RevPAR down 7.9 percent to USD96.06. 5 OCTOBER 2013
WEEKLY NEWS Abu Dhabi to Invest USD5 Billion in Russia Abu Dhabi is planning to invest up to USD5 billion in Russian infrastructure projects and develop cross-border investment cooperation as part of a partnership between the emirate’s Department of Finance and the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF). Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, crown prince, Abu Dhabi, held talks with Vladimir Putin, president, Russia, to discuss ways of cooperation and investment opportunities which will be guided by the principle of obtaining attractive returns on invested capital. As Kirill Dmitriev, CEO, RDIF, highlighted, this partnership marks the largest investment from the Middle East ever made into Russia, as well as one of the largest into an infrastructure fund globally.
Adel Ali: Innovation is Crucial According to a Global Market Forecast recently released by Airbus, passenger traffic in the Middle East will increase by 6.2 percent annually over the next 20 years, presenting a unique growth opportunity for low-cost carriers (LCC) operating in the Middle East which are well-placed for strong and consistent growth, a fact also verified by the development regional LCCs have exhibited in fleet size and route network. This was supported by Adel Ali, group CEO, Air Arabia, who added, “Considering that the regional LCC market is only a decade old, as compared to matured markets in North America and Europe where the concept gained popularity at least three decades ago, it is obvious that the market here will witness various innovative business models. Constant innovation is vital to ensuring sustained growth but they should be financially viable too in the long-term.” Adel Ali
5 OCTOBER 2013
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Ras Al Khaimah Eyes Chinese Market Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (TDA) has successfully completed its first tourism delegation to China, participating at the 4th Resort Development & Hospitality Conference in Hainan. The event marked another important step in the authority’s strategic focus on developing new source markets for the emirate’s fast-growing tourism sector. In the first half of the year, Ras Al Khaimah witnessed a 29 percent growth in Chinese visitor volumes, generating a 61 percent leap in hotel revenue, and by year-end, guests from the Asian country are expected to spend over USD280,000 on hotel rooms in the emirate, up from USD175,000 in 2012.
Ras Al Khaimah
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WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Celebrates Grand Opening A glittering reception was held in the UAE capital commemorating the grand opening of Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, Dusit International’s fifth property in the Middle East. Located 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, the property comprises 37 storeys offering 402 guest rooms and 131 deluxe serviced apartments, further to five dining outlets, a health club with a spa, and a spacious conference centre that can host up to 2,000 guests. Blending the best of both cultures,
Katara Hospitality Continues Development on Lusail Marina Towers Qatari hotel owner, developer and operator, Katara Hospitality has announced the latest plans and developments for the iconic towers underway in the Marina District in Lusail City. The two arched towers will host a five-star hotel to cater to business travellers, a six-star hotel for those seeking sophisticated luxury accommodation, and branded apartments, along with a plethora of state-of-the-art entertainment and recreational facilities. The project has recently been enhanced with additional facilities, including a man-made satellite beach-front island offering a mix of leisure and water sports activities, food and beverage outlets, as well as world-class water parks. Spanning a total area of some 300,000m2, the revised estimated cost of the project amounts to QAR2.2 billion (USD604 million), while ground-breaking is slated for later this year with the official opening scheduled for early 2017.
Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi
the hotel’s designs exudes Arabian grandeur imbued with touches of Thai warmth and boasts what is hailed as the world’s third highest hotel atrium. “We are very proud to present this latest property here in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s centre of industry, culture and commerce,” commented Chanin Donavanik, CEO, Dusit International, further noting that the company has had a presence in the Middle East for well over a decade, and Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is a symbol of its continued commitment to developing in the region.
Millennium & Copthorne Hotels to Expand in Kuwait
Park Inn by Radisson Hotel Bahrain to Open in 2015
Millennium & Copthorne Hotels signed an agreement with Gulf Real Estate Development House Company to manage the new Millennium Hotel and Convention Centre in Kuwait. Located in the Salmiya area of Kuwait City, the company’s second property in the country was designed with business travellers in mind, with Ali Hamad Lakhraim Alzaabi, CEO, Middle East and Africa, Millennium & Copthorne Hotels, confirming, “We recognise the demand in Kuwait from the MICE market and it is our intention to create a first class destination for the business traveller and establish the property as the preferred business hotel in Kuwait City.” The hotel will feature 307 rooms, while the convention centre will offer almost 4,000m2 of meeting and conference facilities, including a showcase ballroom of over 1,080m2 and several meeting room styles.
Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is to further consolidate its presence in Bahrain with the launch of its second property in the Kingdom, Park Inn by Radisson Hotel Bahrain, scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2015. Located in Manama’s Al Seef district, 10km from the airport and 6km from the Diplomatic Quarter, which also houses the company’s first property in the country, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, the new property will feature 207 keys, an all-day dining restaurant with terrace, an 420m2 outdoor roof bar, meetings and events facilities covering 510m2, a gym, and a pool. As Wolfgang Neumann, president, The Rezidor Hotel Group, noted, the launch of the hotel is in line with the company’s strategy to further extend its Park Inn by Radisson network in the Gulf region’s primary and secondary markets.
5 OCTOBER 2013
Accommodation
Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa Unveiled Marking Anantara Hotels, Resorts and Spa’s debut in the emirate, Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa has opened its doors. Prestigiously located on the iconic The Palm, the Thai-inspired beach resort features 293 rooms and villas clustered in units of four to eight to ensure maximum privacy. Guest can enjoy a 400m long private beach, three lagoon-inspired pools, a 50m shoreline infinity pool, two gyms, two tennis courts, teen’s club and kids’ club, while in December Anantara Spa will also open with 16 luxurious treatment suites. Expressing delight at the opening of the resort, Jean Francois Laurent, general manager, Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, supported that Anantara is renowned for offering journeys in the world’s most exotic destinations, and Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa blends cultural elements from Thailand with the international flair of the most cosmopolitan city in the UAE.
Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa
Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina to Open in 2016 InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) entered into an agreement with TAJ RP International, part of RP Group of Companies, to launch Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina in 2016. Located in the Dubai Marina area, the 3,037m2 hotel will feature 280 rooms, a plethora of meeting and event facilities, including a ballroom, spa and health club, three restaurants, a lobby lounge, and a bar. As a brand that focuses on the needs of both the business and leisure traveller, the up and coming Dubai Marina area is perfect for the project, Pascal Gauvin, chief operating officer, India, Middle East and Africa, IHG, pointed out. The hotel marks the fourth Crowne Plaza hotel in Dubai and the ninth property representing the brand in the UAE.
5 OCTOBER 2013
WEEKLY NEWS R Hotels: USD408 Million Investment Plan R Hotels is to embark on a major expansion drive that will include AED1.5 billion (USD408 million) worth of acquisitions and developments doubling its hotel portfolio to six hotels by the end of 2015. The company, which currently owns, manages and operates three hotels in Dubai and Ajman under the Ramada brands, is planning to open three more properties over the next two years, some of which will represent new brands to the UAE. As Sumair Tariq, managing director, R Hotels, revealed, the company already committed AED500 million (USD136 million) this year and will be opening its second hotel on The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence. “We have created a niche market being a dry hotel, focusing on the product and guest services and building strong operations,” he added.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Jumeirah Beach Unveils New Suites Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa reopened the refurbished rooms of the hotel’s two towers. A total of 320 rooms have undergone a floorto-ceiling revamp in order to accentuate the property’s position as a leading luxury resort destination in Dubai. “The recent refurbishments of the rooms in the twin towers is not only a necessity in terms of remaining a step ahead of the industry but also a statement to our guests that they are constantly at the forefront of our minds,” stated Nicolas Villemin, director of business development, Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, adding that the new rooms will allow guests to take full advantage of a luxury resort with the perfect slumber and top amenities.
Accommodation
Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa Opens Talise Spa Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotels & Spa has unveiled what is hailed as the most sought-after destination for the ultimate experience of true relaxation and tranquility offered in Kuwait today. Spread across 3,500m2, the state-of-the-art Talise Spa features a range of facilities for the mind, body and soul, including 17 treatment rooms, two private suites and a Salarium, which is considered the first of its kind Himalayan salt room in the Middle East, built with pure crystal salt that aids rebalance the body’s minerals and strengthen the immune system. According to Mark Griffiths, general manager, Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotels & Spa, guests will embark on a journey of the senses at the spa with each one of them benefitting from tailored approaches to health and wellbeing. Talise Spa
Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah: USD653 Million Sales Dubai-based real estate investment firm, SKAI Holdings, has secured AED2.4 billion (USD653 million) worth of sales since the launch of its AED3.67 billion (USD999 million) Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah project in May. The company has sold 470 hotel rooms and hotel apartments and 219 residential apartments and villas to date, representing 98 percent of the total available units. “Investors have been extremely keen to purchase property in this exciting new project, which we believe will become one of the region’s most soughtafter resorts,” claimed Kabir Mulchandani, CEO, SKAI Holdings, further revealing that buyers have been particularly interested in purchasing the hotel rooms, which is a unique business model in the UAE.
Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah
New Radisson Blu Hotel in Riyadh Capitas Group International (CGI) and Mafaz Properties have partnered to develop a new Radisson Blu hotel in Riyadh, targeting the city’s fast-growing business travel segment. Situated on the capital’s north ring road in close proximity to Riyadh Business Gate and other institutions, the 15-storey mixed-use property will feature a 200-room hotel and 87 serviced apartments, further to a luxurious banquet hall, grade-A offices, and a retail podium. According to Naveed Siddiqui, CEO, CGI, demand for this type of hospitality product is expected to increase by seven percent annually over the next decade. “In addition, the demand for branded, serviced apartments is severely underserved with only two existing properties in Riyadh. Mafaz’s Radisson project fills a major gap in the market. Mafaz is an experienced sponsor and the new development will deliver landmark retail and much needed hospitality stock in one of the most promising locations within Riyadh,” added Siddiqui.
5 OCTOBER 2013
Accommodation
Fellah Hotel Celebrates Official Opening Following a soft opening phase, Fellah Hotel celebrated its grand launch this month. Located in the ancient village of Tassoultante at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, 14km from Marrakech, the hotel is based on minimalist designs which reflect Morocco’s true rural heritage as well as its contemporary culture, while it is also home to Dar al-Ma’mûn, the only cultural centre in MENA to receive the UNESCO-Aschberg label. Encompassing 10 villas with 69 rooms, all furnished with mid-century flea-market finds as well as modern pieces commissioned from local craftsmen, Fellah Hotel also houses a Wat Po Massage Centre, yoga centre, Hammam, five treatment rooms, and two restaurants, to mention a few.
Fellah Hotel
Eastern Mangroves Suites Opened Jannah Hotels & Resorts inaugurated Eastern Mangroves Suites, part of the Eastern Mangroves Complex, on the scenic eastern area of Abu Dhabi. Part of Tourism Development & Investment Company’s portfolio, the property features 88 luxury units, swimming pool, gym, six restaurants, supermarket and beauty salon. According to Nehme Imad Darwiche, CEO, Jannah Hotels & Resorts, who described Eastern Mangroves Suites as one of the most luxurious hotels in the emirate, the property has been designed to meet the requirements of businessmen and other visitors from the UAE and the GCC region in general.
5 OCTOBER 2013
WEEKLY NEWS
Emaar Properties Launches Serviced Residences Emaar Properties unveiled The Address Residences Fountain Views III, the fully furnished serviced residences in Downtown Dubai. Managed by The Address Hotels + Resorts, the company’s flagship five-star premium brand, the new property is located opposite The Dubai Mall and features one-, two-, and three-bedroom serviced residences, while it offers retail space with highend stores and food and beverage outlets along the boulevard. Ahmad Al Matrooshi, managing director, Emaar Properties, described the development as a tribute to the company’s commitment to provide world-class service, awe-inspiring design, and unparalleled architecture. “Located in the heart of our flagship development, Downtown Dubai, The Address Residence Fountain Views III provides investors from across the world the opportunity to reside in one of the most dynamic communities in the city,” concluded Al Matrooshi.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
DAMAC Properties Launches New Hotel Project In response to the growing demand, DAMAC Properties is introducing a new concept of luxury hotel living in downtown Dubai. The AED1.35 billion (USD368 million) development, dubbed Privé by DAMAC, occupies one of the last remaining plots located directly on the waterfront in the Burj Area with all hotel apartments in the 30-storey property offering direct views over the water. Scheduled for completion in the third quarter
of 2016, the project will be managed by DAMAC Maison and is to feature luxurious studios as well as one- and two-bedroom serviced apartments, along with all the luxury services of a five-star hotel, including spa, high-end restaurants, lobby areas, kids’ club and baby-sitting service, and fullyfitted kitchens throughout. The project was specifically developed to create an exclusive, private space, said Ziad El Chaar, managing director, DAMAC Properties.
Omniyat Expands in Dubai Dubai-based real estate development and service related company, Omniyat is to bring two international, premium hotel brands to Dubai and launch three mega service apartment projects before the end of the year. Speaking about the company’s venture into the hospitality industry, Mahdi Amjad, CEO, Omniyat, said, “The UAE's economic growth has increased confidence in the hospitality sector, and Dubai’s government initiative to attract 20 million tourists by 2020 and its increasing investment in tourist attractions with the increasing occupancy of current hotels have motivated the company to further invest into hospitality.” As Amjad further noted, the two hotel brands, both located in the Burj Khalifa district, are set to bring added value to the emirate’s hospitality and real estate industries.
Privé by DAMAC
Gloria Hotels and Resorts Continues Expansion Gloria Hotels and Resorts revealed details of the company’s aggressive growth plans that include new properties both in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The Dubai-based hospitality chain, whose portfolio already includes Gloria Hotel Dubai and Yassat Gloria Hotel Apartments, is gearing up for yet another inauguration ceremony, confirmed Freddy Farid, area general manager, Gloria Hotel Dubai and Yassat Gloria Hotel Apartments. “Our hotel expansion continues with the opening of Gloria Madinah [this month], Gloria Jeddah in November 2014, and Gloria Abu Dhabi also in 2014,” revealed Farid, adding that the past one year has brought a number of exciting developments for the company, with the launch of Yassat Gloria Hotel Apartments at the end of 2012 which boosted the chain’s inventory to 2,029 keys, the largest in Dubai, according to Farid, while occupancy level and RevPAR increased by almost 10 percent compared to 2012.
Luxurious Spa Moments at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Gold Mask
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray has launched what is hailed as the world’s most luxurious spa experience at the Talise Ottoman Spa in association with Margy’s Monte Carlo. The main component of the treatment is the gold facial, exclusively designed for the Ottoman inspired luxury resort, using a 24-carat gold chain mail mask. The regimen aims at slowing down collagen depletion and the
breakdown of elastin, and gold conducts ions which stimulate cellular growth is the basal layer, regenerating firm skin cells and providing tightening effect. Those who indulge in the experience will not only enjoy a revitalising Arabian gold Hammam and massage followed by a Jacuzzi bath, but can also spoil their taste buds with a caviar lunch in their own private spa suite.
5 OCTOBER 2013
Air
Qatar Airways Celebrates Addis Ababa Route Qatar Airways commemorated the launch of its new three weekly flights to Ethiopia’s capital city by providing school uniforms and books for school-age children. Ethiopia is one of the driving forces behind the change which is taking place in the African economy, hence opening up a new route to Addis Ababa makes a great deal of business sense, said Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways, adding, “However, if we are going to do business here it is important to us that we become an active member of the community.”
5 OCTOBER 2013
Etihad Airways Boosts Islamabad Operations In response to the growing demand, Etihad Airways has further increased its flights to Islamabad from nine to eleven weekly services. With the introduction of the additional flights, the Abu Dhabi-based carrier will now operate 31 weekly services from four destinations in Pakistan which, along with the capital city, include Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar. The addition is further proof of the strong commercial and cultural ties between the two countries and will lead to continued growth in traffic flows, noted Kevin Knight, chief strategy and planning officer, Etihad Airways.
WEEKLY NEWS
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Emirates to Fly Daily to Kabul Emirates is to commence a daily passenger service to Khwaja Rawash Airport, Kabul, from December 4. The airline’s first route in Afghanistan will be operated by an Airbus A340-500 in a three cabin configuration. Emirates has identified a demand for a premium service airline offering between the two destinations as Barry Brown, divisional senior vice president, commercial operations, East, Emirates, explained. “We expect the flight to be particularly popular with corporate business travellers, as well as Afghan nationals returning home to visit friends and family,” added Brown.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Air
flydubai Expands Ukrainian Network flydubai’s inaugural flight to Zhulyany International Airport, Kiev landed on September 18, while the Dubai-based carrier also launched twice weekly services to Odessa, bringing the airline’s total number of destinations in Ukraine to four. “flydubai remains committed to the Ukrainian market. We have been flying here since 2011 and we now offer 28 flights a week to Dubai,” commented Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai, announcing that the carrier’s first commercial flight equipped with the new business class will land in Kiev.
Ghaith Al Ghaith arrives at Kiev Zhyulyany International Airport
Mahan Air Launches Virtual Tour In response to passengers’ visual concerns about the airplane type, Iranian carrier, Mahan Air has introduced a virtual tour inside an aircraft through its website. The virtual tour software enables passengers to visit the interior of the plane and be informed of available spaces as well as cabin facilities with the panoramic view offering them an exclusive glimpse into different parts of the cockpit and the cabin. By visiting the airline’s webpage, travellers can explore a variety of Mahan Air’s fleet, including Airbus A340, A320, A300 as well as the British Aerospace BAe 146-300 aircrafts.
Emirates Announces Boston Flights Emirates is to spread its wings across the Atlantic by launching new direct services between Dubai and Boston, effective from March 10, 2014. The new flight, which will be served by a Boeing 777-200LR aircraft, will mark the airline’s eighth destination in the US, and will expand its wider Americas network to 12 routes. According to H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman, Emirates Airline and Group, the Boston service will further develop the carrier’s exciting gateway into the US. “Based on passenger demand, we believe the time is right to further boost our US operations, while stimulating channels of trade and tourism to and from the state of Massachusetts and the wider New England region,” added Al Maktoum. Welcoming the airline to one of the oldest cities in the US, Thomas Menino, mayor, Boston, said, “The arrival of Emirates and its non-stop service to Dubai will expand Boston’s global presence in business and tourism.”
RAK Airways Lands in Riyadh
RAK Airways
RAK Airways has launched scheduled services between Ras Al Khaimah and Riyadh, further strengthening the airline’s footprint in Saudi Arabia. Since the inauguration of the carrier’s first route to the Kingdom between the emirate and Jeddah in October 2010, demand has been steadily rising, prompting the airline to increase frequency from four weekly flights to daily services at the end of 2012. “Saudi Arabia is a major contributor of tourism into the UAE and it is with great joy that we fly into the capital Riyadh from Ras Al Khaimah, the Northern Emirates of the UAE,” commented on the carrier’s 12th destination H.E. Sheikh Salem Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, vice chairman, RAK Airways. Initially the airline will operate three weekly services on the route, increasing frequency to four weekly flights from October 29.
5 OCTOBER 2013
WHO'S MOVED
Katie Roberts Katie Roberts has been named public relations and marketing communications manager at Doha Marriott. A British national from North Wales, Roberts spent nine years working in Egypt before joining Marriott International in 2011 as public relations manager for Taba Heights Marriott Red Sea Resort.
After two years, she decided to take on a new challenge and moved to Doha, where she looks forward to working with the team.
Roberts joined Marriott International in 2011
Edward French Edward French has been appointed chief sales and marketing officer at The RitzCarlton Hotel Company. French will oversee the strategic positioning of the company, and will play a critical leadership role for the marketing, global sales and revenue management discipline. With oversight of sales, marketing, revenue management, eCommerce, customer relationship management, public relations and social media, French will be responsible for driving
5 OCTOBER 2013
top-line revenue for the brand, ensuring the strategic priorities of the discipline are designed to yield profitable sales, increased market share, and expanded competitive advantage. French, who most recently served as senior vice president of marketing platforms, where he supervised operations, marketing and strategic direction of the loyalty programmes, moved to Marriott International from American Airlines which he joined in 1992 from Chase Manhattan Bank.
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Rony Valeny Rony Valeny has joined Seven Tides’ senior management team as executive managing director. He takes on the position after working for Deloitte Middle East Financial Advisory Practice, where he headed up the technology, media and telecommunications division for the region following a decade with PricewaterhouseCoopers
in London. Over the years, he has built up a proven track record advising corporate and private equity clients as well as lending banks. In his new role, Valeny will define and execute the strategic direction of Seven Tides’ global portfolio with a specific remit to develop and support stakeholder relationships.
travel talk is your space
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TRAVEL TALK Mohammed Assar
Karim Nahas
Director of sales and marketing, Holiday Inn Express Bahrain Hotel.
General manager, Rose Rayhaan by Rotana, Dubai.
“Although the hotel is celebrating its first year of operation in Bahrain, it has [already] been awarded a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor This prestigious award places the hotel in the top-performing 10 percent of all business hotels worldwide on TripAdvisor. [...] In addition, the hotel is currently ranked as the best Holiday Inn Express in the Middle East and Africa in terms of guest satisfaction.”
“We will soon be starting the conversion of the sixth floor of the hotel to a Club Rotana Executive floor which will include a private lounge, two meeting rooms, business centre and a TV and library room. This will be an ideal place for our business travellers and corporate guests. The project is planned to be opened in the first quarter of 2014.”
Freddy Farid
Faisal Al Sheikh
Area general manager, Gloria Hotel and Yassat Gloria Hotel Apartments, Dubai.
Director, events bureau, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority.
“[TripAdvisor’s Certificate for Excellence 2013] is a very special award because it is based on guests’ experiences and we are very pleased to have such an excellent rating from our visitors. We are especially proud of our staff who take such pride in their work and who always try to go the extra mile to please a guest.”
“From a tourism perspective, Abu Dhabi’s sporting events programme has a very important role to play in the emirate realising its [annual] target of attracting 2.5 million hotel guests. […] Staging sporting events of this pedigree deliver exposure well beyond the race track and provide us with a compelling destination marketing platform to capitalise on all year long.”
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
5 OCTOBER 2013
AGENT'S CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Pierretta Sfeir POSITION: Tourism manager COMPANY: City Car Travel &Tourism LOCATION: Lebanon WEB: www.citycar.com.lb
Who are you? My name is Pierretta Sfeir, and I work as tourism manager at City Car. I have been in this industry for nine years, always looking to ameliorate my knowledge and add more experience to my career. I have a Masters in sustainable tourism and another Masters in culture and tourism, and I am actually preparing my PhD in the same field. Our mother company, City Car, has been operating since 1975. It is considered one of the top brands for customer loyalty. We provide four types of service under four separate departments. Five years ago we also launched our travel and tourism department. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? It is a non-routine industry which pushes me to be more creative, [stay] active and always look for the better. Working in that industry gives you the chance to be in contact with different categories of people and to be in a continuous quest to satisfy client needs with competitive rates and services. When is the best time to visit Lebanon? Whenever you come to Lebanon, you are a winner. During wintertime, you will enjoy the white Mount Lebanon, taste the lovely international Lebanese wine and like the amazing cozy night life. During summertime, you will benefit from the variety of beach activities, experiment one of the international cultural and artistic festival in Byblos and Baalbeck, and relish the traditional Lebanese cuisine. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? I am thinking about a weekend in Santorini, but in case I have more time I will go for Croatia, Slovenia or Poland. Why should people come to you for travel advice? Because we are professional, we know how to deliver tailor-made offers responding to their needs at very competitive and affordable rates.
5 OCTOBER 2013
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Travelport and Karibu Extend Partnership Travelport and Tanzanian travel company, Karibu, have signed a multi-year renewal contract. “As we celebrate 50 years of serving the travelling public, we have recently announced the launch of a rebranded Waljis Travel Bureau and Karibu Holidays under our flagship brand, Karibu. I am confident that Travelport’s technology and expertise will continue to support us in delivering the best possible service to our customers and ensure that we remain at the cutting edge of the industry,” said Mohamed Sumar, CEO, Karibu. As Mark Meehan, managing director, Africa, Travelport, noted, the two companies have enjoyed a very successful relationship for more than 15 years and Travel-
port shares Karibu’s ambition of providing the best possible travel content and technology to customers across East Africa and beyond.
Mark Meehan
JA Resorts & Hotels Trains UK Tour Operators More than 250 UK-based tour operators and travel agents operating in the UAE leisure market have completed the first phase of JA Resorts & Hotels’ new online training programme, which focused on introducing them to the latest improvements at the company’s properties. Anabela Radosevic, director of sales and marketing, JA Resorts & Hotels, described the UK as one of the company’s top European markets, which, according to the Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing showed an eight percent growth in the second quarter of the year, with visitor numbers reaching 185,000. Travel agents can also complete JA Resorts & Hotels’ programme at their own pace module by module, with each segment covering a different property. “This empowers agents to become JA ambassadors, secure in the knowledge that any changes to our properties, or their rates, can be uploaded to the programme,” added Radosevic. The next phase of the programme will focus on Saudi Arabia, followed by the GCC.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
UNWTO Pushes for Accessible Tourism for All The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)’s recommendations on Accessible Tourism for All have been approved and endorsed by the general assembly.
M
arking another important step in fostering collaboration among stakeholders to enable people with access requirements to function independently through universally designed tourism products, services and environments, Accessible Tourism for All outlines measures that ensure that persons with disabilities have access to the physical environment and facilities open to the public. “Accessibility is a central element of any responsible and sustainable tourism policy. It is both a human rights imperative and an exceptional business opportunity,” stressed Taleb Rifai, secretary-general, UNWTO, referring to the approximately one billion people living around the world with disabilities. Designed to guide tourism stakeholders to improve the accessibility for tourism destinations, facilities and services worldwide, the new manual is set to be published by the end of the year.
Aviation Can Drive Economic Growth in Africa The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called on public and private stakeholders to work together to address critical priorities to enable aviation to drive economic growth in Africa. Speaking at the Aviation Day Africa, Tony Tyler, director general, IATA, noted that the continent is poised for rapid development, as half of the top 20 fastest growing economies over the next five years are expected to be on this continent. “Aviation’s part in driving growth and development will become even more prominent,” he added, stressing the urgent need to tackle safety, infrastructure, and liberalisation related challenges.
Seychelles Tourism Board Organises Press Trip
Al Baker Meets with Chengdu Mayor
In a bid to further enhance the profile of the Seychelles islands, Seychelles Tourism Board (STB)’s Middle East office invited a number of media representatives to the Indian Ocean destination. Organised in collaboration with Emirates, the five-day group press trip introduced journalists from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Lebanon to the unique cuisine of the Seychelles, the diversity of the islands’ flora and fauna, and a number of properties that are sure to impress the Middle Eastern clientele, including the Denis Private Island, Raffles Praslin Seychelles, and the recently renovated Banyan Tree Seychelles. “The group left the island with a smile and unforgettable experiences. We are positive that we have now new ambassadors in the region that will promote the destination and Emirates’ services,” commented Ahmed Fathallah, regional manager, Middle East, STB.
Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways, and Ge Honglin, mayor, Chengdu Municipality, met to commemorate the airline’s new direct route to the city. During the visit, Al Baker said that the airline was pleased to add Chengdu as its sixth destination in China helping to bring the total number of Qatar Airways flights to the country up to 41 a week. He later commented that flying into Chengdu is an exciting venture which will allow the airline to contribute to the local economy, create new jobs and attract more tourists. “We hope the launch of our direct flights to Chengdu is just the beginning of a strong relationship with the city,” stressed Al Baker. Honglin added, “We will work closely with Mr. Al Baker and Qatar Airways to do what we can to help increase frequencies, hopefully to daily flights, in order to meet the demand of their customers, which in turn will benefit the city of Chengdu and our local economy.”
Participants during the Trip
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RENDEZVOUS
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Q & A with Zeid Talhami Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa is nearing its second year in operation and since opening its doors to guests, it has been a pleasant uphill, with more expansions and improvements on the horizon, as Zeid Talhami, director of sales and marketing, Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa, elaborates.
Travel Trade Weekly: What are the latest developments at the hotel? Zeid Talhami: Since Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa opened its doors in late 2011, our focus has remained on providing tailor-made services to all our guests as we realise that one size certainly does not fit everyone. Keeping in line with this focus, our process comprises learning about our guests, their preferences, and evolving our services and facilities to meet their needs. We recently received a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. The hotel is ranked within the top 10 properties of 113 hotels in Doha. Some recent developments at the hotel include the complete renovation of our awardwinning restaurant, Blue, and the addition of a new restaurant, Agora, which serves modern Turkish cuisine with regional influences. An extension of this restaurant is also in the pipeline. We also introduce new accommodation and dining packages every now and then. Some examples of this are the ionisation technology at the spa, the Friday family brunch at Blue, the Victoria Tea Lounge that makes every effort to uphold the spirit of a bygone era by offering a special high tea experience to guests, the Indian Night at Flavours, and the Ramadan meals as well as the Eid package, more recently. In addition, we are also a very ecologically conscious team at the hotel; we direct our efforts towards maintaining a low carbon footprint through recycling and conservation wherever possible. Travel Trade Weekly: How has business been this year so far?
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Zeid Talhami Director of sales and marketing, Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa
the hotel’s proximity to Aspire Sports Zone, a key sports venue in Qatar. The Bayern Munich team has visited us twice; once [in 2012] and once this year. We have also had the pleasure of hosting the Canadian men’s national soccer team during their visit to Doha. Many of them visit Qatar frequently and have chosen Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa for accommodation each time. This allows us to learn more about these guests and provide them with a more customised experience during each of their visit. For our athlete guests, we create customised menus specifically tailored to meet their dietary requirements. In addition, we also receive corporate guests throughout the year. Travel Trade Weekly: What is in store for 2014?
Zeid Talhami: We started off quite well this year. We have had an occupancy rate of 85 percent in our 136 rooms and suites between January and July; that is an increase of 14 percent over the same period in 2012. The economy of Qatar has been growing rapidly in the past decade and with each passing year there is a lot more growth, which is leading to a higher influx of people in the country. Travel Trade Weekly: By nationality and niche segments, which have been your key feeder markets? Zeid Talhami: Our main feeder markets have been countries in the GCC region as well as the US and UK. We receive a lot of guests who travel to Qatar on business or leisure or during short transits. Our other group of guests has been international sports teams due to
Zeid Talhami: Due to the success of our new restaurant, Agora, we are planning an expansion for it. At the moment, that is our primary focus in terms of growth planning. Our effort though will always be to get to know our guests better to create a home away from home experience for them. Travel Trade Weekly: It is said that Qatar is somehow still restricted to business and MICE travellers although a lot of efforts are being made by the tourism authority to attract other sectors. What are your comments on this? Zeid Talhami: Qatar Tourism Authority, which is the national tourism board here, organises a number of entertainment and touristic attractions for people here. However, the tourism scene here needs yet more development and the government is making efforts towards improving this.
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NEWS & EVENTS
SCTA to Present Exhibition in Rome The Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA) and Vittoriano Museum Complex in Rome, Italy, recently signed an agreement to organise an exhibition in the museum. To he held under the title “Kingdom… Cultural communication and openness to the world through the ages”, the exhibition falls within the scheduled participation of the country in the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Italy. Running between October 10 and November 30, the event will include archaeological artifacts dating back to different historical periods, attempting to highlight the cultural dimension of the Kingdom and its historic role in the human civilisation. At the same time, the exhibition also aims to promote cultural and civilisational exchange between Saudi Arabia and the Italy, as the two countries already enjoy close ties.
Oman Air: Successful Participation at STF Oman Air took part at Salalah Tourism Festival (STF), one of the region’s premier events, which the airline also supported as the official carrier and a major sponsor. Usama Bin Karim Al Haremi, head, corporate communications and media, Oman Air, commented that the event was a wonderful opportunity for the airline to engage with its customers and the general public to celebrate the exceptional natural phenomena called 'Khareef'. “We would like to thank all those who joined us and we look forward to continuing our support of the STF, as well as other events that play a key part in the life of Oman,” Al Haremi added. Held annually, STF coincides with the Khareef monsoon season, which is unique to the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, bringing cool relief from the heat of the Gulf summer.
Salalah Tourism Festival
EVENTS 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. 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. Ukraine International Travel Market (UITM) Kiev, Ukraine, October 23 – 25, 2013 (www.ukraine-itm.com.ua) Hailed as the season’s largest event for tourism industry professionals in Ukraine, UITM enables participants to showcase their latest products and offers to thousands of visitors. Saudi Conventions & Exhibitions Forum Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, November 3 – 4, 2013 (www.saudicef.com) The Kingdom’s leading conference and exhibition for the MICE industry with over 700 stakeholders of the Saudi and regional sector.
World Travel Market (WTM) London, UK, November 4 – 7, 2013 (www.wtmlondon.com) WTM is a vibrant must-attend business-to-business event presenting a diverse range of destinations and industry sectors to close to 50,000 travel professionals. EMEA Hospitality Summit Montreux, Switzerland, November 11 – 13, 2013 (www.hospitalitysummit.com) A premium forum bringing elite buyers and sellers together from across Europe, Middle East and Asia. International Golf Travel Market 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. The Global Meetings & Events Expo (EIBTM) Barcelona, Spain, November 19 - 21, 2013 (www.eibtm.com) An annual global meetings and incentive show where exhibitors can connect with a global visitor audience. 5 OCTOBER 2013