08 JUNE 2013
ISSUE 187
Radisson Blu Martinez Hotel Beirut Receives Five Stars Radisson Blu Martinez Hotel Beirut has been awarded the five-star hotel classification following an inspection by the Ministry of Tourism.
Warwick International Hotels (WIH) has entered into a management contract with Damas Real Estate, owner of a 357-key hotel in the heart of Dubai.
08 Kenya Airways: Direct Flights to Abu Dhabi In a bid to grow its presence in the Middle East, Kenya Airways has announced the commencement of direct flights to Abu Dhabi.
09 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION AIR WHO’S MOVED TRAVEL TALK AGENT’S CORNER TRAVEL CHANNELS RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS
02 03 04 09 11 12 13 14 15 16
WIH to Debut in Dubai
8
2
MARKET UPDATE
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel COPY EDITOR Stefanie Saghbini
Emirates: 25 Years of Profit Emirates Group recorded its 25th consecutive year of profit and company-wide growth after ending the 2012-13 financial year with an AED3.1 billion (USD845 million) net profit, marking a 34 percent year-on-year increase.
“A
SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba JOURNALIST Maria Kazeli
chieving our 25th consecutive year of profit in a financial year with our largest ever increase in capacity across the network is an achievement that speaks to the strength of our brands and our leadership,” highlighted H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, CEO, Emirates Airline and Group, adding that during the 12-month stretch, the company has collectively invested over
SALES & MARKETING Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian Derek Lainsbury 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
AED13.8 billion (USD3.8 billion) in new aircraft, products, services, and handling facilities. “This investment has resulted in an increased customer base and a rise in global brand awareness. Every dirham that we earn is strategically placed back into our business and it is this tenacious approach that has allowed the group to maintain such strong and consistent profitability under challenging circumstances,” explained Al Maktoum.
QAIA: Passenger and Aircraft Traffic Growth
EMAILS
For the third consecutive month this year, Airport International Group, responsible for the operation of the Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA), recorded positive results for the Jordanian hub’s traffic in March. Passenger volume (PAX) at the new airport reached 549,861 in the month under review, up by over 8.6 percent compared to the 506,189 achieved for the same month of 2012. This brought the year-to-date PAX rate up by around 5.6 percent, from 1,395,008 in 2012 to 1,472,524 this year. Aircraft movement (ACM) also witnessed an approximate 2.7 percent increase when traffic rose from 5,545 in March 2012, to 5,692 in March this year, pushing year-to-date ACM up by almost 3.6 percent.
info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of
07/06/2013 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar
COUNTRY
CURRENCY
1USD=
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
6.99
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,511.50
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
99.40
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.29
Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.38
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.62
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.42
Iran (IRR)
Riyal
12,283.00
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.86
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
79.01
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.27
Air Arabia: Profit Up 20 Percent
A
ir Arabia reported a net profit of AED59 million (USD16.1 million) for the first quarter of the year, marking a 20 percent increase over the corresponding period in 2012. The airline’s turnover reached AED722 million (USD195.57 million), up 22 percent, and during the three-month stretch it carried a record 1.4 million passengers, a year-onyear surge of 18 percent. According to Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammad Al Thani, chairman, Air Arabia, the
results demonstrate that the carrier continues to set a benchmark for the low-cost carrier model as well as for the wider aviation sector in the region. “As the airline is on a steady growth trajectory, the sustained profitability and solid growth margins enable Air Arabia to enter new geographies and launch new ventures. As we are soon celebrating our 10th anniversary, we remain committed to deliver exciting travel solutions to millions of passengers every year,” added Al Thani. 8 JUNE 2013
WEEKLY NEWS Dubai Impresses at ATO Conference Dubai has successfully showcased the achievements of the city in the field of sustainable development and its newly launched green building regulations at the 16th Conference of The Arab Town Organisation, Doha, where the Dubai delegation comprised Dubai Municipality (DM) and The Environmental Center for Arab Towns. As Hussain Nasser Lootah, director general, DM, explained, under the theme ‘Arab Cities and Challenges of Sustainable Development’ the conference aimed at exchanging expertise and experiences for the advancement of Arab cities and their inhabitants.
Abu Dhabi among Top 100 Busiest Meeting Destinations Abu Dhabi has been ranked among the top 100 busiest global meetings destination in the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA)’s 2012 global city rankings for the first time, leapfrogging from the 234th place. The UAE capital, now 100th, is one of only two Arabian Gulf cities to be recognised in the top 100 rankings, alongside Dubai. “The rise by 134 places in the ICCA rankings is thanks to the hard work and commitment shown not just by our team here at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, but also Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority and the emirate’s leadership,” said H.E. Ali Saeed Bin Harmel Al Dhaheri, managing director, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Company.
dnata Invests in In-flight Catering dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers, has acquired the remaining 50 percent of Servair Airchef in Italy, increasing its total ownership to 100 percent. With presence in 23 airports, Servair Airchef is a leading inflight caterer in the European country, which produces some 40,000 meals daily and also provides aircraft cleaning services at a number of airports. According to Stewart Angus, divisional senior vice president, dnata, the full acquisition of the business reflects the company’s long term strategy to further invest in its core business and complements dnata’s existing in-flight catering and cabin cleaning operations around the world.
8 JUNE 2013
3
Muscat Hills Hosts Golf Tour Operators Breamar Golf-managed Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club, Oman, welcomed a group of golf tour operators as part of the Ministry of Tourism’s familiarisation visit. The group played the three grass golf courses in Muscat; Ghalla Valley, Al Mouj, and Muscat Hills, and stayed at Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel, after arriving with Oman Air. Expressing his delight at welcoming the group at the property, Michael Braidwood, director, operations, Braemar Golf, said, “Inbound tourists are essential to the success and sustainability of golf in Oman. The response from the tour operators who visited our club was very encouraging for both Muscat Hills and Golf as a whole in Oman.”
Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club
4
WEEKLY NEWS
Abidos Hotels: 20 Hotels by 2017 Abidos Hotels is poised to expand its regional portfolio to 20 hotels by 2017, building on the momentum of the Middle East’s hotel sector which has shown amazing recovery over the last two years, according to Mina Habib, vice president, Abidos Hotels. The company, which announced its first property in December 2012 with the launch of Abidos Hotel Apartment – Dubailand, is said to have witnessed huge interest from the industry and expects to sign up four to five projects before the end of the year, including a 900unit property in Dubailand.
Accommodation
JA Ocean View Hotel Wins over Guests JA Ocean View Hotel continues to excel after only four months of operation. The only four-star beach hotel on ’The Walk’ at Jumeirah Beach Residence has already welcomed over 78,000 guests to its 338 rooms and suites, lifting year-to-date occupancy levels to 91 percent, and statistics indicate a healthy mix of international and local leisure guests. “While most of our facilities are in fact of five-star standard, the association of our four-star classification with a casual beach holiday atmosphere is clearly a huge draw, as we expected,” noted David Thomson, chief operating officer, JA Resorts & Hotels.
Semiramis Intercontinental Cairo Unveils New Venue Semiramis InterContinental Cairo has launched a new, state-of-the-art meeting venue, namely Semiramis Pavilion, which offers an ideal setting for every occasion from meetings to various events. Semiramis Pavilion features seven spacious meeting rooms, five smaller rooms, further to a business centre, library, kitchen, and reception area, all equipped with advanced technology. The venue’s chefs await guests with an array of international flavours offering healthy food and freshly baked pastries. Through intuitive services and the ‘make it happen’ attitude, the team at Semiramis Intercontinental Cairo aims to make every event memorable, rewarding, and engaging.
8 JUNE 2013
6
WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
Rosewood Abu Dhabi Unveiled Rosewood Abu Dhabi has opened its doors, marking Rosewood Hotels & Resorts’ first property in the UAE. Located on the waterfront of Sowwah Square, the 189-room hotel offers guests a distinct and personalised luxury lifestyle experience in the heart of Abu Dhabi. ”Rosewood Abu Dhabi is a perfect choice for travellers coming to the capital on business or pleasure,” asserted Luigi Romaniello, managing director, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, claiming that the five-star property provides a luxury lifestyle experience currently unmatched in the capital. “Travellers today are looking for more than a bed and breakfast; they require a destination which offers both a comforting retreat from the day, but also a vibrant energy and variety of amenities,” he added. Guests can take advantage of nine signature restaurants and lounges, eight fully equipped conference and event spaces, including a ballroom, pool and gym facilities, and Sense, A Rosewood Spa.
Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort Expects Recovery In light of Morocco’s tourism sector having seen significant recovery this year, with statistics from the country’s Ministry of Tourism revealing tourism revenues exceeding MAD4.37 billion (USD506 million) in January, up 5.9 percent year-on-year, Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort has unveiled its new summer packages offering tailor-made options for tourists from the Gulf states. Located 90km south of Casablanca in El Jadida, the coastal property features 500 rooms and 67 luxurious villas and encompasses 250ha, including an 18-hole golf course, a 7km stretch of beach, restaurants and bars, nightclub, and spa, and overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.
Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort
Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Hotel Receives Five-star Ranking Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Hotel has been awarded the five-star hotel classification by the Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing. As Salman Haider, executive managing director, hotels, Majid Al Futtaim Properties, highlighted, the team has been working hard to receive the five-star ranking for which the hotel was designed. “The entire hotel has been renovated and upgraded in order to meet expectations of our upscale guests, while offering them a five-star experience that exceeds their satisfaction,” commented Laurent Chaudet, general manager, Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Hotel, who (Left to right) Alaa Mostafa, director, asset management, hotels, Majid stated that the official Al Futtaim Properties, Salman Haider, executive managing director, five-star rating is just the hotels, Majid Al Futtaim Properties, and Chaudet Laurent, general beginning. manager, Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Hotel
Coral Beach Hotel & Resort Continues Renovation Coral Beach Hotel & Resort, Beirut, continues to forge ahead with its extensive renovation programme, which includes a facelift to all rooms and suites and conference and banquet facilities, the update of the restaurants’ menus, as well as the resort’s restoration and landscaping. As Rana Younes, marketing manager, Coral Beach Hotel & Resort, Beirut, revealed, the hotel’s management also lays great emphasis on the training of the staff in order to spread team spirit and further improve the quality of services. “Moreover, and to drive more revenue to the hotel, we are also focusing on the corporate segment, attracting business within the local market for our restaurants and resort, as well as on penetrating new markets in the GCC and North Africa,” added Younes.
8 JUNE 2013
8
WEEKLY NEWS
Accommodation
Landmark Amman to Enhance Offerings Landmark Amman Hotel & Conference Center, a contemporary and luxurious retreat in the city centre, will soon be introducing new options to its guests. As Firas Khatib, director of revenue, Landmark Amman Hotel & Conference Center, revealed, following the facelift of the property’s meeting rooms and restaurants in 2010, the hotel has now embarked on yet another renovation which is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2014. According to Khatib, the project will include the introduction of new modern club rooms and panoramic suites, and will be conducted floor by floor to ensure seamless operaLandmark Amman Hotel & tion during these months. Conference Center
Warwick to Debut in Dubai Warwick International Hotels (WIH) has entered into a management contract with Damas Real Estate, owner of a 357-key hotel in the heart of Dubai, marking another milestone in the company’s regional expansion. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, the four-star Warwick Hotel Dubai is slated to open by the end of the year. Guest will be able to enjoy a myriad of facilities and amenities, including five food and beverage outlets, extensive meeting facilities, tennis court, and a rooftop swimming pool.
Radisson Blu Martinez Hotel Beirut Receives Five-star Ranking Radisson Blu Martinez Hotel Beirut has been awarded the five-star hotel classification following an inspection by the Ministry of Tourism. Kosta Kourotsidis, general manager, Radisson Blu Martinez Hotel Beirut, described the recognition as a remarkable achievement, adding that the rating compensates the team’s hard work and the hotel’s continuous success over the past few years. “We pride ourselves on the facilities and service offered at Radisson Blu, all of which are designed with our guests in mind, ensuring their stay with us is as pleasurable and memorable as possible,” he concluded.
Shangri-La Bosphorus Opens Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts has added to its growing list of international gateway cities with the launch of its second property in Europe. Set on the European side of the Bosphorus Strait, overlooking the city’s domes and minarets, ShangriLa Bosphorus, Istanbul, features 186 rooms, including 17 suites, a number of restaurants and bars, a spa, hammam facilities, a health club, and a heated indoor pool, while busy business travellers can also take advantage of the hotel’s conference facilities.
8 JUNE 2013
Air
Qatar Airways Boosts North Africa Routes Qatar Airways has increased capacity between Qatar and North Africa, with direct non-stop flights to Tripoli, Libya and Casablanca, Morocco having started on June 1. Qatar Airways reintroduced services between Doha and Tripoli via Alexandria in February 2012 after temporarily suspending operations to the city, while, Casablanca was served via Tunis, Tunisia. According to Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways, these new services mean more capacity and improved travel times to and from Tripoli and Casablanca to destinations across the carrier’s network.
8 JUNE 2013
Emirates to Increase Colombo Flights Emirates is set to boost capacity on its services to Colombo, Sri Lanka, as of June 30, with the addition of three more flights per week. The launch of these services, operating between Dubai and Colombo, will increase the number of flights between the two cities to four and will take the total number of weekly Emirates services to the Sri Lankan capital city to 31. A Boeing 777-300ER aircraft will serve the new routes, in a two-class configuration, adding 126 business class and 1,158 economy class seats each way per week.
WEEKLY NEWS
9
Kenya Airways: Direct Flights to Abu Dhabi In a bid to grow its presence in the Middle East, Kenya Airways has announced the commencement of direct flights to Abu Dhabi. The airline will start operating the service as of July 1, flying three times a week between Nairobi and Abu Dhabi, complementing its existing 10-weekly operations to the UAE. Titus Naikuni, CEO, Kenya Airways, said that the new route will provide a vital connection between Africa and the Middle East, leveraging on the relationship with its codeshare partner, Etihad Airways. “These flights are intended to add value to our customers by providing improved connections and more choices of travel into other parts of the Middle East,” he added.
10
WEEKLY NEWS
Air
Salalah Marks 60th Hub for flydubai flydubai began services to Salalah, Oman on May 21 bringing its operational network to 60 destinations. The inaugural flight delegation led by Hamad Obaidalla, chief commercial officer, flydubai, was met by a number of tourism and airport officials in the Sultanate. Obaidalla commented, “With Oman just next door to the UAE, there is a long history of tourism and trade between our countries. Through this new service we hope to further enhance these ties and make it easier and more convenient to travel between Dubai and Salalah.”
flydubai Touches Down in Salalah
BA Celebrates Return to Lebanon British Airways (BA) recently marked its successful sixmonth return to Lebanon at a ceremony held at the British ambassadorial residence in Beirut. The event was hosted by Tom Fletcher, British ambassador to Lebanon, and attended by BA executives, members of the media, and the airline’s partners and customers. Paolo De Renzis, area commercial manager, Middle East and Central Asia, BA, expressed delight to be back in the Lebanese market after what he described was a smooth and effective transition of bmi into BA, which was followed by BA’s launch in Lebanon in October 2012.
Etihad Airways Takes off to Amsterdam The inaugural flight of Etihad Airways, carrying the KL code of Dutch national airline, KLM, departed Abu Dhabi on May 15, heading to The Netherlands’ capital, Amsterdam. The launch of the service has been hailed as an important development in the strategic partnership between the two airlines which was first announced in October 2012, while the new daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Amsterdam complement KLM’s services on that route. The Etihad Airways A330-200 aircraft was greeted with a ceremonial water cannon salute as it taxied to the gate at Schiphol.
JetBlue and Emirates to Expand Partnership New York-based JetBlue Airways and Emirates have announced the intent to expand their current partnership to include bilateral codesharing. Under the expanded agreement, JetBlue will place its B6 code on all flights currently operated by Emirates between the US and Dubai International, as well as between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Milan, Italy. Through the existing agreement, customers can enjoy the convenience of a single combined ticket for Emirates and JetBlue-operated flights, plus other benefits including one-stop check-in and baggage transfer.
8 JUNE 2013
WHO'S MOVED
Gheitha Suleiman Salim Al Hosny Gheitha Suleiman Salim Al Hosny has joined Oman Air’s team at Abu Dhabi International Airport as airport service manager, after extensive introduction training. Al Hosny began her career with the airline in 1994 as a lounge receptionist, gradually rising to the role of acting duty manager at Muscat
International Airport. She brings a strong track record and extensive experience to the role and is also the first Omani woman to take on this key international position at the airline. Her Appointment is expected to inspire other women to consider a career in the aviation industry.
Andreas Jersabeck Andreas Jersabeck has been appointed general manager at Hilton Doha. Jersabeck started his career with Hilton Worldwide at Hilton Vienna 38 years ago and served later as general manager first at London Hilton on Park Lane Hotel and then at The Trafalgar London Hotel – Hilton. He now joins Hilton Doha from Hilton Kiev where he was the pre-opening general manager. Overall, he has been serving Hilton Worldwide as general
8 JUNE 2013
manager for over 16 years, acquiring international experience in more than 11 countries. With his strong operational background and proven record of collecting accolades with every hotel he managed, Jersabeck is expected to play an instrumental role in his new position.
Jersabeck has been serving Hilton Worldwide as general manager of over 16 years
11
Mansour Al Marzouqi Mansour Al Marzouqi has been appointed by Etihad Airways as general manager in Belarus. Al Marzouqi joined the airline’s graduate management programme in 2007, subsequently holding several key positions in sales as well as business development in the UAE before being promoted to general manager in the Maldives in 2011.
He brings a proven record within Etihad Airways and substantial knowledge and expertise of the travel industry and commercial airline operations. Al Marzouqi will replace former general manager for Belarus, Paolo Greco, who is moving to Rome to take up the position of partnership alliance manager to Alitalia.
travel talk is your space
12
TRAVEL TALK Omar Boujlid
Hassan Al-Mousawi
General manager, Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Hajar Tower Makkah.
CEO, Rizon Jet.
“This year our [goal] is to capitalise on the strength of the hotel’s premium location in front of the Holy Mosque and the excellent service we offer with our passionate Swiss touch. We would like to be known as the preferred choice for pilgrims and business travellers staying in Mecca. We also want to highlight Mövenpick Hotel Makkah’s role towards the local community.”
Janet Abrahams Cluster director of sales and marketing, Phoenicia Hotel and Le Vendôme Beirut, InterContinental Hotels Group.
“As a rich project requiring global expertise and local infrastructure [like Lebanon’s offshore energy venture], there is considerable activity and as Phoenicia is the place to stay, network, and celebrate, we will be finalising membership for the petroleum industry club, which will be located at Phoenicia, providing all the familiar benefits to global members as well as the unique location of Phoenicia Beirut.”
“Being passionate about all areas of our business and investing in our people will always remain one of our first priorities. It is not just the facility, but the people that make the difference. [...] Those recognitions [like the ‘Best Fixed Base Operation Middle East’ or the ‘Best Charter Company Middle East’] are very stimulating and we are committed to maintaining the momentum we have gained.”
H.E. Ali Majed Al Mansoori Chairman, Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC).
“ADAC is proud of Abu Dhabi International Airport claiming the title of “Best Airport in the Middle East” [at the World Airport Awards] for the second year […] ADAC is on track with its plans for the development of the emirate’s airports’ infrastructure to support Abu Dhabi Vision 2030, and deliver efficient and quality services that will exceed that of leading international airports.”
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
8 JUNE 2013
AGENT'S CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT NAME: Anahid Khorassandjian POSITION: Owner and managing director COMPANY: Annie Travel LOCATION: Egypt WEB: www.annietravel.net Who are you? I am Anahid Khorassandjian, owner and managing director of Annie Travel. Annie Travel is a leading travel agency in Egypt, established in 1981, and one which enjoys an excellent reputation and works successfully in both business and private holiday travel. We have incoming and outgoing departments, specialised in Nile cruises and cruises all around the world, as well as spa holidays, honeymoon holidays, and also arrange conferences, meetings, and exhibitions. We are members of the International Air Transport Association, the American Society of Travel Agents, and the Universal Federation of Travel Agents’ Association. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? My favourite thing is meeting all kinds of people, giving all kinds of different tourism services, dealing with almost happy people who look forward to their trip, and above all to see our clients happy with our services. When is the best time to visit Egypt? Best time to visit Egypt is between March and end of November. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? I would like to travel to France and Switzerland. Why should people come to you for travel advice? We gain credibility by giving reliable services and follow on after sale services. We are punctual and give our clients value for money.
Nile Cruising
8 JUNE 2013
13
Travelport Rooms and More Sign Deal with DOTW Travelport Rooms and More, an industry leading hotel booking engine, has significantly boosted its global content through a new deal with Destinations of the World (DOTW), a leading global travel industry wholesaler. The new agreement will add more than 80,000 properties to the online accommodation portal. Combining consumer insights with meta search functionality and user interface, Travelport Rooms and More delivers a completely integrated hotel booking platform, allowing travel agents across the globe to take better advantage of the rapidly growing hotel sector. The booking engine has gone
from strength to strength since it was launched in 2011, tripling the number of its hotel properties in the first 18 months, as Rabih Saab, president, Middle East and Africa, Travelport, explained. ”Travelport Rooms and More has been growing rapidly in the past two years with over 450,000 properties now available to our customers around the world. “The additional content from Destinations of the World now allows us to provide practically unlimited choice of accommodation options and we are absolutely delighted to be including them in the Travelport Rooms and More hotel booking engine.”
JA Resorts & Hotels Presents GCC Travel Agents JA Resorts & Hotels has launched an incentive dedicated to travel agents across the GCC, where they can win a range of luxury prizes when booking clients into the company’s Dubai properties, including JA Oasis Beach Tower, JA Palm Tree Court, and The Residence at JA Palm Tree Court, over the next few months. The six-month incentive, which was launched in April, provides GCC travel agents with the convenience of making bookings through their channel of choice with the special booking code and simply sending the details to a dedicated e-mail address. “Our GCC business continues to grow and we believe this incentive will go some distance to thank our loyal agents and inspire new agents to book JA Resorts & Hotels properties,” said Anabela Radosevic, director of sales and marketing, JA Resorts & Hotels.
Anabela Radosevic
14
TRAVEL CHANNELS
Taleb Rifai Praises SCTA Following a recent meeting with a Saudi delegation at the headquarters of World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in Madrid, Taleb Rifai, secretary-general, UNWTO, praised the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA).
“S
CTA’s great success in the organisation of tourism and antiquities sectors, raising awareness on tourism, its advancement in administration and work environment, its distinguished experiences, all of which enhanced its reputation and credibility among ministries of tourism and members of UNWTO which we have actually touched recently,” he told the delegation, which was visiting Spain to explore and experience the development and preservation of urban heritage. “Coordination efforts between UNWTO and SCTA are close and strong. SCTA is one of the most active members of UNWTO; it plays an effective role and there are many joint projects between the two organisations in the areas of statistics, studies, training course, [and more],” Rifai concluded.
Google Reveals Gulf Traveller Potential Google recently announced the results of an independent study conducted by Ipsos, an innovative, entrepreneurial, client-focused organisation, providing research services to clients on a global basis, to better understand the decision-making process of travellers in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Traveller’s Road to Decision revealed that users in both countries are technology-savvy and rely on mobiles and videos when making travel decisions, while apart from family and friends, Internet is the number one source for trip planning for 39 percent of UAE and 38 percent of Saudi leisure travellers, with the number rising for business travellers to 50 percent and 48 percent respectively. “The lack of bookings made online through smartphones is surprising, but represents a massive opportunity for the travel industry to improve online presence, and tap into the UAE and Saudi travellers who, more and more, are using their phones as a digital concierge,” observed Marie De Ducla, head of travel industry, Google MENA.
Thailand Targets Middle East Business On the occasion of its participation at Arabian Travel Market, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced that it aims to implement a range of marketing strategies to attract Middle Eastern tourists through the ‘Charm of Thainess’ which includes ‘Thai Experience’, ‘Thai Way of Life’ and ‘Thai Culture’. Chalermsak Suranant, director, Dubai and Middle East office, TAT, revealed that during the past two years, the number of visitors to Thailand from the region has grown considerably. “While the UAE remains in top position bringing 108,994 visitors to Thailand in 2012, other GCC countries are also emerging as potential expanding markets including Oman, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait,” Suranant said.
Sea Turtles Return to Saadiyat Beach The environmental services team at the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) has spotted the first sea turtle nest on Saadiyat Island, marking the beginning of this year’s nesting season. The critically endangered Hawksbill Sea Turtle will start to nest under the observation of TDIC’s environmental services team, as part of the company’s Hawksbill Turtle Conservation Programme, hailed as the only one of its kind in the Arabian Gulf. Over the past few years, TDIC has taken serious steps to ensure the protection of Saadiyat Island’s coastal dune system and the safety of the Hawksbill Sea Turtle which return every year. Therefore the company restricts resort developments on Saadiyat Beach to at least 60m inland from the seaward edge of the coastal dunes, creating a buffer zone.
Hawksbill Sea Turtle
8 JUNE 2013
RENDEZVOUS
15
Q & A with Karim Nahas Located on a prime location on Sheikh Zayed Road, Rose Rayhaan by Rotana, certified as the world’s tallest hotel by Guinness World Records between 2009 and 2012, continues to distinguish itself in Dubai’s crowded market, as Karim Nahas, general manager, Rose Rayhaan by Rotana, demonstrates.
Travel Trade Weekly: Soaring 333m, the 72-storey Rose Rayhaan by Rotana continues to stand out from the competition on many levels. How has the hotel performed since the beginning of the year?
Karim Nahas General manager, Rose Rayhaan by Rotana
Karim Nahas: The first quarter of the year witnessed an impressive set of results for Rose Rayhaan by Rotana, with revenues well above 2012’s figures by almost 20 percent. These results are obviously the fruits of our solid positioning in the Dubai corporate and MICE markets, as well as the increase in leisure business.
Karim Nahas: This new project, planned to be launched by November, will be another reason why our guests should choose Rose Rayhaan by Rotana as the prime choice in Dubai. The Executive Lounge will be designed by one of the most reputable design houses in the UAE, with a contemporary lounge, Internet hub, two private meeting rooms, TV and library areas, and a range of the most sophisticated food and beverage offerings. The entire floor will have views on Sheikh Zayed Road and will truly be an addition to our services to international travellers.
Travel Trade Weekly: Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, within walking distance from the Dubai International Financial Centre and in close proximity to a number of tourist attractions, Rose Rayhaan by Rotana appeals to both leisure and business travellers. What is the ratio of business to leisure guests at the hotel? Karim Nahas: Our hotel caters for three major segments, these being the corporate, leisure and MICE segments. Leisure would form 30 percent of our business mix, whilst business travellers would be around 40 percent. Travel Trade Weekly: With its spacious connecting rooms and suites and extensive services, Rose Rayhaan by Rotana has long established itself as a preferred hotel for long-stay guests. Based on your opinion, what aspects make Rose Rayhaan by Rotana an ideal address for travellers looking to spend longer periods in Dubai? Karim Nahas: Our long-stay guests enjoy large room and suite sizes varying from 32m2
8 JUNE 2013
Travel Trade Weekly: In order to better cater to the unique needs of today’s tech-savvy business travellers, the management has recently outlined plans to launch a new executive lounge on the sixth floor. Could you please tell us about this project?
These results are obviously the fruits of our solid positioning to 75m2, availability of separate kitchenette in all our rooms and suites, complimentary coffee- and tea-making facilities, discounts on food and beverage, Internet and laundry services, and most importantly the warm welcome and service provided by each team member is something which I think sets us ahead of our competitors.
Travel Trade Weekly: Rotana has long been committed to sustainability and responsible business practices, and similarly, Rose Rayhaan by Rotana has been actively promoting environmental awareness. Please tell us about the hotel’s green initiatives. Karim Nahas: We have started to replace 90 percent of our lighting bulbs in our guest rooms and public areas to LED lights, which will save approximately seven percent of our electricity consumption. We are also having an in-room sustainability programme to encourage guests to reduce the use of towels and bed sheets in their rooms. That alone is helping us saving water and electricity to the environment, and lastly, we are adopting a rigorous plan on food wastage and garbage segregation throughout the hotel.
16
NEWS & EVENTS
Sharjah Witnesses Positive Tourism Louvre Abu Dhabi Developing Well Statistics Louvre Abu Dhabi, the first of three iconic museums on On the sidelines of Arabian Travel Market , Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority unveiled its first quarter (Q1) tourism statistics for the year, with significant year-on-year increases. The Q1 statistics put hotel occupancy in the emirate at more than 80 percent, compared to 78 percent in 2012. In addition, the number of hotel guests in Sharjah during the three-month stretch rose eight percent to reach 503,985, compared to 466,218 recorded during the same period in 2012. Hotel room nights also escalated to 612,574, against 539,393 in Q1 2012, thus rising 14 percent. According to the report, European visitors once again emerged as the emirate’s largest bloc of tourists, accounting for 38 percent of the total number, followed by visitors from the GCC states, at 34 percent, and Asians at 14 percent of the tourism market share.
Saadiyat Island developed by Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), has achieved the first major milestone in the construction of the museum’s distinct dome. H.E. Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, chairman, TDIC, and Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, alongside TDIC’s senior management, witnessed the first concrete pour for one of the four piers that are to hold the dome of Louvre Abu Dhabi, which is slated to open in 2015. “We are delighted to witness the first concrete pour for the foundation that is going to hold up the unique dome of Louvre Abu Dhabi,” commented Mubarak Hamad Al Muhairi, managing director, TDIC, who described the moment as one which symbolises yet another step closer towards the completion of this landmark project. “This is a world-class museum with a one-of-its-kind design and TDIC is closely monitoring its development,” he concluded.
EVENTS The Americas Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition (AIBTM) Chicago, US, June 11 – 13, 2013 (www.aibtm.com) A three-day event focusing on the Americas’ meetings and events sector, where no time is wasted and where deals get done.
Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) Kolkata, India, July 5 – 7, 2013 (www.ttfotm.com) TTF is hailed as India’s largest business-to-business focused travel trade show network.
International Travel Expo (ITE) Hong Kong, June 13 – 16, 2013 (www.itehk.com) The event is set to welcome some 50 countries and regions from different continents and over 600 exhibitors presenting the latest trends and ideas.
Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) Convention San Diego, US, August 4 – 7, 2013 (www.gbta.org) GBTA’s Convention will bring together thousands of business travel buyers and industry suppliers and a strong line-up of keynote speakers.
Beijing International Tourism Expo (BITE) Beijing, China, June 21 – 23, 2013 (www.bitechina.com) One of Asia’s leading travel and tourism events, which will showcase a range of destinations, tourism attractions, travel packages, and services.
Food and Hospitality Oman Muscat, Oman, September 2 – 4, 2013 (www.foodandhospitalityoman.com) The event showcases a comprehensive range of services in the international food, beverage, and hotel industries.
8 JUNE 2013