Travel Trade Monthly February 2013

www.traveltradecyprus.travel

FEBRUARY 2013

ISSUE 40

ONSITE: KUWAIT Kuwait is safely and securely ready to welcome all those who wish to visit a place providing only the most superior hospitality offerings.

Following a record-breaking year in 2012 and with a number of world-class developments in the pipeline, Ras Al Khaimah will be the one to look out for in the coming months.

11 INVESTIGATION: GOLF Golf has long been one of the most popular niche segments under the tourism umbrella, with 2012 having proved to be an excellent year for lovers of the sport, and this year already looks promising.

18 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE VIEW: Hotel Apartments VISIT: Ras Al Khaimah EXPLORE: Fujairah ONSITE: Kuwait TOUR: Thailand EXCLUSIVE: Family Travel INVESTIGATION: Golf WHO’S MOVED TRAVEL TALK RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS

02 04 06 09 11 14 16 18 21 22 23 24

VISIT: Ras Al Khaimah

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2

MARKET UPDATE

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel JOURNALISTS Stefanie Saghbini Rita Kasziba Dominique Christou Maria Kazeli

Etihad Airways: 10.29 Million Passengers in 2012 Etihad Airways surpassed its target of carrying 10 million passengers in 2012, after a total of 10.29 million travellers opted to fly across its global network.

SALES & MARKETING Maria Demetriadou Derek Lainsbury Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 210466 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel PRINTED IN CYPRUS Cyprint Plc P.O. Box 58300, CY-3732, Limassol, Cyprus Tel: +357 25 720035, Fax: +357 25 720123 Email: info@cyprint.com.cy

T

he growth in passenger numbers, up 22 percent, equivalent to 1.88 million passengers on the total of 8.41 million recorded in 2011, is also reflected by the carrier’s equity partners, such as airberlin with year-end figures at an estimated 33.4 million passengers, Virgin Australia at 19.5 million, AerLingus at nearly 11 million, and Air Seychelles at some 241,000 passengers, mounting up to over 74 million passengers for all five airlines.

Commenting on the figures, James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, said, “Etihad Airways has achieved significant expansion in 2012, and therefore it is very satisfying to pass our target of flying more than 10 mil-

lion passengers during a year for the first time.”

In continuation, he added, “We have launched flights to six new destinations during [2012]; Tripoli, Shanghai, Nairobi, Basra, Lagos, and Ahmedabad, which have all contributed to the 22 percent increase in passenger numbers.”

The carrier’s busiest route proved to be Bangkok, with nearly 691,000 passengers, closely followed by Manila, London Heathrow, and Jeddah. Sydney, Paris, Frankfurt, Manchester, Doha, and Dublin complete the list of the 10 most popular routes.

This year, the airline is set to introduce services to at least three new destinations; Washington, D.C. in March, São Paulo in June, and Ho Chi Minh City in October.

MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of

29/01/2013 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar

COUNTRY

CURRENCY

1USD=

UAE (AED)

Dirham

3.67

Egypt (EGP)

Pound

6.66

Saudi Arabia (SAR)

Riyal

3.75

Lebanon (LBP)

Pound

1,504.00

Bahrain (BHD)

Dinar

0.37

Jordan (JOD)

Dinar

0.71

Syria (SYP)

Pound

71.00

Kuwait (KWD)

Dinar

0.28

Qatar (QAR)

Riyal

3.64

Oman (OMR)

Rial

0.38

Tunisia (TND)

Dinar

1.55

Morocco (MAD)

Dirham

8.33

Iran (IRR)

Riyal

12,258.00

Yemen (YER)

Rial

214.31

Algeria (DZD)

Dinar

78.60

Libya (LYD)

Dinar

1.26

Etihad Airways

Dubai Duty Free 2012 Sales Increased Dubai Duty Free’s retail operation in the phased opening of Concourse A at Dubai International Airport, extending over 8,000m2 and bringing the total of Dubai Duty Free’s retail footprint to 26,000m2, welcomed its first customers last month.

On January 2, the day the new retail operation Dubai Duty Free launched for business, Dubai Duty Free announced announced 2012 year-end 2012 year-end sales figures of a record AED5.9 billion (USD1.6 billion), representing a 10 percent sales figures of a record increase over 2011, and 23.5 million sales transacAED5.9 billion (USD1.6 tions; equivalent to 64,200 sales transactions per billion), representing a day. Meanwhile, the five best selling categories were 10 percent increase over perfumes, liquor, gold, tobacco, and confectionery.

2011, and 23.5 million Reflecting on yet another memorable year, Colm sales transactions McLoughlin, executive vice chairman, Dubai Duty Free, said, “The entire team at Dubai Duty Free has worked hard to continue to drive sales, while focusing on the expansion of our business in Concourse A. We have recruited a total of 1,600 new staff in 2012, bringing our staffing levels up to 5,200, all in preparation for our growth plans which are very exciting.”

FEBRUARY 2013

4

VIEW

Hotel Apartments

A Home Away From Home

Marriott Executive Apartments, Riyadh Makarim

 Dominique Christou writes

T

oday’s traveller seeks comfort and technology, whether for business or leisure, and hotel apartments, nowadays, can provide an integrated all-in-one solution, this according to Salim Touma, general manager, Donatello Hotel Apartments, Al Barsha.

“A corporate executive who embarks on a business trip prefers to feel like he is at home when he is away from home, therefore we see a relative growth in the corporate clients in our hotel, due to the fact that hotel apartments nowadays can offer the same services and features as a business hotel, but with the additional benefits, such as space and more attractive prices,” he continued.

Furthermore, when it comes to leisure travellers and families, Touma explained that hotel apartments are also an ideal solution as they offer a lodging option where all family members are accommodated in the same suite.

In addition, he noted that the hotel industry is always evolving and there was an attempt in the region to introduce budget hotels, however to no avail as it did not meet the clients’ expectations, as result of relatively expensive rates and limited services.

Following on, the hotel apartment concept then kicked in and, according to Touma, skyrocketed due to the high quality of fittings by the developers and affordable prices for these types of lodging. “This is

Hotel apartments are becoming increasingly popular, particularly amongst large families who enjoy the more spacious option with added comfort, services, and facilities, providing that ’home away from home’ experience while travelling, and this preference is shared by both corporate and leisure tourists alike. exactly what travellers seek; value for money, and hotel apartments can offer this,” he commented.

Asser Samy, director of sales and marketing, Dusit Residence Dubai Marina, also indicated that visitors typically look for a spacious place for their accommodation, with good services and facilities, mainly applying to visitors staying longer period of times, whereby they opt for one big unit with a number of bedrooms plus a living area and cooking facilities.

He further stressed that hotel apartments provide this added space at attractive rates and comprise quality services and facilities catering to the business and leisure guest, and, to top it all off, Dusit Residence Dubai Marina is blessed with a good location, right at the waterfront.

Similarly, Mohammed Al Kilany, general manager, Al Sharq Hotel Apartments & Resorts, Sharjah, who stated that this type of lodging gives an overall family atmosphere due to their spacious size in comparison to a hotel room, said, “Hotels apartments offer the guests a possibility of cooking their own food, thus reducing their costs of living. It is a proven fact, after we were affected by the economic crisis.”

Vincent Wee, managing director, GCC and India, The Ascott Limited, concurred, adding that more business and leisure travellers choose serviced residences because they offer real value for travellers, especially for those who are staying for an extended period of time. “Compared to hotels, serviced residence offer more space and come with fully-equipped kitchen where travellers can prepare a meal for themselves and enjoy the privacy of their own extra space as compared to a typical hotel room,” he commented.

Saleh Farajat, cluster director of sales and marketing, Riyadh Marriott Hotel, Courtyard Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter Hotel, and Marriott Executive Apartments Riyadh, pinpointed the growing popularity of hotel apartments among extended travellers from the west which, he believes, are adapting as they spend most of their time away from their homes.

WELCOMING ALL TRAVELLERS Wee further expressed that Arab families who travel together prefer to stay in the same serviced apartments, and similarly, companies are able to save on FEBRUARY 2013

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Hotel Apartments

5

accommodation expenses by putting their staff on business trips in larger serviced apartments, thus trip planning becomes easier and travellers have more time to focus on their travel itinerary instead of worrying about their accommodation.

Also proving to be popular with regional families is Al Sharq Hotel Apartments & Resorts, Sharjah, with the majority of its guests coming from Saudi Arabia, followed by Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE, this according to Al Kilany.

In addition, Donatello Hotel Apartments, located in Dubai, is fortunate to have a healthy mix of nationalities and feeder markets, however, the mix changes occasionally as influenced by the seasonality, according to Touma, who elaborated, “In the summer, for

Dusit Residence Dubai Marina

A corporate executive who embarks on a business trip prefers to feel like he is at home when he is away from home example July and August, the GCC countries dominate our mix, however we see Europe occupying most of our rooms during the Gregorian festive season, December, March, and April. The rest of the year, we can see 50 percent of the business originated from the Gulf and the remaining is split between the Americas and Europe.”

Also welcoming most of its guests from the GCC, the UK, and Europe, Samy further noted that the property has also witnessed a number of Japanese and Korean guests for yearly stay, plus Latin Americans for monthly stay.

Further offering a home away from home is Marriott Executive Apartments, Riyadh Makarim, designed for extended-stay business travellers and long family holidays, which boasts an equal number of European and Arab clientele, according to Farajat, who noted that Riyadh is a different market altogether, in terms of feeder markets, when compared to other capitals in the GCC. Under the same brand, Marwan Haddad, director of sales, Marriott Executive Apartments Manama BahFEBRUARY 2013

rain-Residence Inn by Marriott Manama Juffair, noted that leisure travellers to the property are mainly from the GCC countries, especially Saudi Arabia, and the business market comes mainly from the US and UK. “Travellers opt for hotel apartments normally when they are on an extended business trip, for five nights or more. Hotel apartments are also popular on family holidays as this way there is no need to take separate rooms,” commented Haddad.

Also with its main feeder markets hailing from Europe and the GCC, The Ascott Limited conducts regular sales trips to countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE to touch base with clients and contacts.

“Given the global footprint of Ascott, we are also able to work with our colleagues around the world for cross promotional efforts and sales to raise the profile of Ascott’s serviced residences in the Middle East,” said Wee. Additionally a large proportion of the property’s guests are from the UK and Saudi Arabia, in addition to a lot of support coming from travellers from the Netherlands, France, and Canada.

Further catering to the booming desire for hotel apartments, the company recently opened its first Ascott-branded premier serviced residence in

Doha, the 229-unit Ascott Doha. “We are actively on the lookout for new properties to manage in other countries in the Middle East, such as Saudi Arabia. In Oman, we are slated to open Sohar Garden Residences, a corporate leasing property, and Somerset Panorama Muscat; our first branded services residence in the country by 2014.” 

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VISIT

Ras Al Khaimah

The One to

Watch

Following a record-breaking year in 2012 and with a number of world-class developments in the pipeline, the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah will be the one to look out for in the coming months, when hundreds of new rooms and various attractions come online offering affordable luxury for visitors from all around the globe.

Ras Al Khaimah Country Club

Banyan Tree Al Wadi

Camels during Sunset

 Rita Kasziba writes

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ith its precious natural treasure, rich heritage, and world-class recreational choices, Ras Al Khaimah has long established itself as a timeless destination of countless exhilarating experiences and opportunities, for both tourists and investors, perfectly complementing its bigger sister emirates.

Reflecting Ras Al Khaimah’s growing appeal, 2012 marked another record-breaking year for the destination with visitor numbers exceeding the one million mark by the end of November, one month ahead of schedule.

Since its establishment in May 2011, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (Ras Al Khaimah TDA), has initiated a number of new hospitality projects and embarked on a rigorous development and promotional strategy to entice investment into the emirate and firmly position it both regionally and overseas as an affordable luxury destination, of-

fering adventure, relaxation, and a diverse mix of attractions, as Victor Louis, chief operation officer, Ras Al Khaimah TDA, explained.

“Total visitors to Ras Al Khaimah from January to December 2012 recorded at 1,105,191 visitors, generating a revenue boost at almost AED585.066 (USD159.9 million),” Louis revealed, noting that the business environment for tourism in the emirate in 2012 was extremely positive with all major indicators showing good to strong growth.

“Over the last months, as a result of the cooperation and continuous efforts together with our partners and investors, Ras Al Khaimah TDA has achieved numerous milestones in various fields including the expansion of the tourist attractions in the emirate as well as increasing and upgrading the hotels and resorts inventory,” added Louis.

CHECKING IN Praising the authority’s commitment to supporting

RAS AL KHAIMAH IN BRIEF Country: UAE Currency: UAE Dirham (AED) Language: Arabic

and encouraging the industry’s development and promoting the destination both regionally and internationally, Andreas Mueller, general manager, The Cove Rotana Resort, Ras Al Khaimah, pinpointed that Ras Al Khaimah TDA’s vigorous work has brought a new wave of business to the emirate, which is well reflected in 2012’s record visitor numbers.

Expressing similar appreciation, Ali Kasapbashi, group general manager, Bin Majid Group, confirmed that since the organisation’s inauguration, demand for room inventory has shown a continuous growth from various channels.

Proof of this success can be seen in the emirate’s hotel revenues which, in 2012, shot up to AED585.1 million FEBRUARY 2013

Ras Al Khaimah (USD159.9 million), with beach hotels and resorts as well as city hotels experiencing notable occupancy and RevPAR improvements.

Correspondingly, Hilton Worldwide reported positive results from its two city hotels and one resort in the emirate, which Mohab Ghali, country manager, Ras Al Khaimah, Hilton Worldwide, described as one of the company’s key development markets in the region. In fact, Hilton Worlwide has been committed to the emirate for over a decade, and has since expanded its portfolio to three properties, with a total of 828 keys, with another three projects in the pipeline. “Overall visitor numbers are steadily increasing as the industry and government work in tandem to promote Ras Al Khaimah as a destination globally, attracting niche segments like adventure tourists, cultural tourists, and MICE industry,” explained Ghali, adding that the emirate is swiftly becoming one of region’s top destinations for MICE, thanks to the quality of its tourism and hospitality industry.

Further commenting on the emirate’s growing appeal as a MICE destination, Anders Dimblad, group general manager, Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah, which includes Banyan Tree Al Wadi and Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach, added, “[In 2012] we have seen a positive growth within the emirate in terms of occupancy and RevPAR for holidaymakers. In particular, at Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah, we have witnessed 80 percent growth from 2011 within the MICE segment.”

Likewise, Kasapbashi reported an average occupancy of 78 percent (excluding the winter holiday season) for Bin Majid Group’s four properties, and in a bid to cater to the growing demand and further add to the emirate’s already popular recreational offerings, Bin Majid Beach Hotel recently opened a new spa, while a number of new chalets and cabanas were added at Bin Majid Beach Resort. “Tourism in Ras Al Khaimah is presently in full swing as the emirate looks forward to exciting projects and developments,” indicated Kasapbashi.

Along parallel lines, Stuart Wheeler, CEO, Seawings, remarked on the great significance of the authority’s promotional initiatives and the newly developed attractions such as the Ice Land Water Park, which, according to Wheeler, are a major draw for visitors flying with the seaplane tour operator to Ras Al Khaimah. “[In 2012] during peak season we flew more than 200 guests every month and are positive that these numbers will go up gradually,” he added, describing Ras Al Khaimah as a perfect getaway destination, where the company looks to further strengthen its position.

THE GLOBAL BRAND The past years’ unprecedented growth comes as a result of the destination’s widespread promotion, which has allowed the emirate to showcase its tremendous potential around the world, as Alaeddin Zayed, general manager, Blue Waves Travel & Tourism, a sister company of RAK Airways, highlighted, adding that the destination’s active marketing has paid rich dividends.

To create greater awareness of the destination, a FEBRUARY 2013

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number of public relations representational offices have been set up, and the authority has also reinforced its participation in roadshows and travel exhibitions both regionally and internationally, as Louis clarified, starting with a long list of events across the GCC, as well as Europe, especially Germany and Eastern Europe, which, he explained, gave the authority the opportunity to establish new relations and further strengthen co-operations with existing partners.

The charter flights, launched as a joint initiative with Natalie Tours and Alpha Tours, are expected, for example, to bring a total of 7,000 Russian visitors to the emirate which, according to Louis, translates into an anticipated increased demand of 17,000 room nights for Ras Al Khaimah’s hotels between the period of October 2012 and this April.

Eastern Europe in general has, over the past few years, become one of the most promising regions for Ras Al Khaimah with Russia currently ranking as the third main feeder market of the emirate after UAE and Germany. Furthermore, the UK, Czech Republic, Italy,

Japan, markets that are currently developing. […]

Aside from Western Europe, we are targeting markets such as GCC and Asia as the Banyan Tree brand has a strong following within that region,” Dimblad explained, who also anticipates increased business from the Middle East region due to the soaring popularity of short-haul travel and short weekend getaways.

As Louis revealed, the authority will remain focused on its main source markets, while also working on exploring further opportunities as well as potential charter flight opportunities.

Dhayah Fort

Seawings

Austria, Ukraine, India, Sweden, and Switzerland complete the top 10, explained Louis.

Correspondingly, Mueller listed Germany, Scandinavia, the UK, and the CIS among the resort’s key markets, adding that the management looks to attract new business from various regions.

“We are looking at new source markets and will focus to expand in the Netherlands, Austria, and Scandinavia, just to mention a few.”

Remarking on the changing trends, Kasapbashi added, “We have noticed increasing traffic from Russia, Germany, and other European countries as well as from the UAE, and we are working to open new markets such as China, India or South America.”

Likewise, as Dimblad suggested, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts also aims to tap into new markets.

“Most of our travellers come from the neighbouring emirates, [however] increasingly more European visitors are choosing Ras Al Khaimah as a base to explore the UAE from countries such as Germany, UK, France, and Russia. As the global economic market stabilises, we have seen an increase of guests from China and

launched in 2012, introduces various opportunities, backed with a comprehensive study and includes 35 plots within the Al Marjan Island to potential investors. In fact, the emirate holds tremendous potential, considering that Ras Al Khaimah TDA has been assigned a multi-million dollar budget to develop the emirate into a global brand. “The government of Ras Al Khaimah is investing a budget of USD500 million in tourism development projects until the end of the current year, with the target of receiving 1.2 million visitors [by year-end] and bringing the emirate’s total hotel and resort room inventory to 10,000 keys by 2016,” Louis said, adding that Ras Al Khaimah’s room inventory currently stands at 2,975 hotel rooms and the main challenge is to further spur demand from various channels including tour operators. “This year, we will be able to increase the room inventory with 981 rooms,” he further revealed.

Hilton Worldwide alone has three projects in the pipeline, namely the 346-key Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, the 266-room Hilton Al Hamra Gold & Beach Resort, and the 485-unit DoubleTree by Hilton Resort 

BUSINESS MEETS TALENT Just in a few years, Ras Al Khaimah TDA has achieved a number of milestones, laying down a solid foundation from which to move forward, and in addition to its proactive and continuous campaigns, the authority also plays a vital role in attracting investment to the emirate.

For Exmple, the Ras Al Khaimah Investors Guide,

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Marjan Island. “You can see by our pipeline that we are actively engaged in expanding our portfolio in Ras Al Khaimah and introduce a mix of brand into this growing market,” highlighted Ghali, noting that in addition to the upcoming opening of the UAE’s first Waldorf Astoria property, which will also boast a world-class championship golf course, the company is also in the process of taking over the management of the iconic Al Hamra Fort Hotel in the coming months, whereas the DoubleTree by Hilton property, one of the first hotels to open on the prestigious Al Marjan Island, is slated for a 2014 launch.

Al Marjan Island is a land reclamation project extending 4.5km out into the Arabian Gulf from the coast of Ras Al Khaimah, providing the emirate with an additional 21km of white sandy beach frontage, which has been created for residential and leisure development.

Following the completion of the land reclamation, the government of Ras Al Khaimah sold sections of the land to private investors for development. The Real Madrid project, which was announced in 2012, is an initiative established between Real Madrid and the private investors of those plots of land and as such, the government of Ras Al Khaimah has and remains removed from involvement in the project.

Al Marjan Island is the first man-made island project to be developed in Ras Al Khaimah, and will consist of a cluster of five coral-shaped islands extending over 2.7 million m2. It is valued at more than USD1.8 billion, as Louis explained, adding that the mixed-use development on the island, will include floating villas, leisure and dining facilities, in addition to four- and five-star hotels and resorts, such as the emirate’s first Crowne Plaza Resort, which will boast 442 rooms and suites and is slated for opening in 2015.

Set to start welcoming visitors in the second half of the year, Rixos Bab Al Bahr, hailed as the first ‘all inclusive’ property of this magnitude in the UAE, will feature 632 rooms and will also boast the Rixos Bab Al Bahr Vega Convention centre, which is considered the largest venue of its kind in the Mediterranean region, with a capacity of 6,000 delegates, further reflecting the emirate’s growing profile as a MICE destination.

In addition, as Louis revealed, the first ladies beach in the emirate offering premium facilities and services is also due to be launched in the third quarter of the year, joining the recently opened Bassata Desert Village and the Prince of the Sea luxurious sailing yacht as the latest additions to the destination’s offerings, while the dining outlets of Al Hamra Marina and Al Hamra Golf, managed by Ras Al Khaimah Hospitality Group, are currently being upgraded.

Besides its pristine natural beauty, the charm of the quaint town centre and the multitude of activities on offer, which Dimblad listed among the emirate’s main attractions, Ras Al Khaimah has long prided itself on the quality of its offerings, hence the continuous efforts to constantly upgrade and improve both its facilities and services.

“Since [Ras Al Khaimah TDA’s] establishment, separate tourism and hospitality divisions have been created to oversee the various activities of business and investment

Ras Al Khaimah

development, commercial and research activities, licensing, public relations and marketing,” explained Louis.

In November 2012 for example, the authority launched a training programme for tour guides, in a bid to both educate and improve the awareness and knowledge of the emirate’s historical and tourism attractions, as Louis further explicated.

To support and further develop the emirate’s hospitality industry, Ras Al Khaimah Hospitality Group acts as a management company on behalf of the government-owned hotels, and hospitality, tourism, and leisure assets, and is taking an active role in introducing new hospitality projects, as the rising emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is fast becoming a strong contender within the global hospitality market, according to Louis, who added that in 2012, the group also launched the Al Qassimi Corniche, a new dining brand.

In addition, Louis also mentioned the introduction of new nightlife entertainment with the Amasi

In fact, since its re-launch in October 2010, RAK Airways has continuously expanded its network, connecting the emirate with key regional as well as domestic destinations, thus further broadening the emirate’s appeal among both tourists and investors.

Having carried over 330,000 passengers in 2012, average load factor reached 71 percent as John Brayford, CEO, RAK Airways, revealed, further pinpointing the airline’s ever-growing crucial role in the development of Ras Al Khaimah, which stems from an already well-established reputation and ambitious business plans set for the future. “Our business plan shows a steady growth path for the next five years, building a network of around 20-25 destinations within the region,” he explained, identifying the carrier’s main objectives as offering easy connections through the emirate, smooth transition through the formalities, and ensuring high standard of personal service.

“We fly the flag of Ras Al Khaimah proudly around the region and we make it easy for people to access the emirate for business or for leisure. We act as a shop window demonstrating the quality of the leisure facilities that are developing quickly in the emirate, the ease of setting up and doing business here, and the close proximity to the major centres of Dubai and Abu Dhabi,” Brayford concluded.

ONE OF A KIND

A Traditional Dancer at Bassata Desert Village

Beach, which, he said, has proved to be extremely successful, while the Ras Al Khaimah Country Club, also managed by the group, recently opened its doors, offering what Louis described as a perfect leisure and recreational place.

WINGS OF CHANGE While Ras Al Khaimah strongly relied on visitors from its sister emirates in the past, mainly from Dubai, the intensive promotional activities and new ventures of Ras Al Khaimah TDA have helped the emirate to establish its own markets.

Commenting on the changing market conditions, Zayed said, “Tourism industry continued to develop [in 2012] thanks to RAK Airways’ new destinations and the carrier’s codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways which helped promote the emirate worldwide.”

Industry professionals working across the emirate share the same view that one of the biggest assets of Ras Al Khaimah is its unique charm.

Despite its close proximity to bustling Dubai, the fourth biggest emirate of the UAE has retained its rich heritage, dating back 7,000 years, which still manifests in numerous historical sites, forts, and abandoned villages, right next to the growing number of modern, state-of-the-art facilities.

Describing the emirate as a friendly and relaxed destination with all the attraction and facilities desirable for a first-class holiday experience, Mueller added, “Ras Al Khaimah has a rich history with interesting historical sites; it has its own identity now with stunning championship golf courses, endless beaches, plenty of activities, water parks, calendar of events, top class hotels, and shopping malls.”

According to Mueller, Ras Al Khaimah has already established itself as a preferred holiday hotspot in several markets, especially in Europe, and the emirate is set to experience another buoyant year. “Ras Al Khaimah will grow from strength to strength, [and] the destination will be firmly put on the map, ” he further commented.

Identifying Ras Al Khaimah TDA’s main objectives for the future, Louis said, “The tourism industry is intrinsically an optimistic one and there are still many goals to be accomplished. This year, we will continue promoting Ras Al Khaimah as an affordable destination for leisure and adventure, exploring more destinations, looking for new source markets, cultivating key relationships, as well as developing new facilities and activities that attract investors, visitors, and residents in Ras Al Khaimah.”  FEBRUARY 2013

EXPLORE

Fujairah

9

Where Tranquility Meets Convenience Blessed with unspoiled natural beauty and serenity, and embellished with modern infrastructure facilities, Fujairah is considered a hidden treasure of the UAE, which, with a host of developments in the pipeline, is set to experience dynamic economic and demographic growth in the coming years.

FUJAIRAH IN BRIEF Country: UAE Currency: UAE Dirham (AED) Language: Arabic

Bidya Fort

 Rita Kasziba writes

D

espite the awe-inspiring progression of the UAE over the past decades, Fujairah, the only emirate bordering the Gulf of Oman, has retained its own identity and pace of life, proudly boasting, what Furqan Shah, director of sales and marketing, Coral Suites Hotel, Fujairah, described as a one-of-its-kind environment that everyone today wishes to experience.

With its picturesque scenery and serenity, relaxing both to the mind and body, the destination remains a sanctuary from the hustle of the everyday life, as Mohamed Fekry, general manager, Concorde Fujairah Hotel, pinpointed, noting that the soaring visitor numbers precisely reflect the steady development of the emirate’s tourism industry over the past years.

Voicing similar views, Pierre Abou Jaoude, general manager, Royal Beach Hotel & Resort, added, “The performance of the industry in Fujairah is witnessing growth and interest thanks to the hard work of the Fujairah Tourism & Antiquities Authority and the quality and standard of services offered by the hotels in the area.”

Correspondingly, hoteliers working across the emirate reported positive results for the past months, with Fekry describing 2012 as a great year, with key hotel performance indicators exceeding prior expectations driven by strong demand from the corporate sector, including government and sport organisations, coupled with increased business from travel agencies as well as foreign websites.

The substantial improvement on 2011 levels is FEBRUARY 2013

also strongly associated with the tourism authority’s proactive and forward thinking approach to promote Fujairah both regionally and globally as a new destination for tourism and investment, Shah highlighted, noting that developments, such as the Sheikh Khalifa Highway connecting Fujairah and Dubai, or the new Sheikh Zayed Mosque, as well as the expansion of the oil and gas sector, have also supported the industry’s overall growth.

With its strategic location, as the only emirate on the other side of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most critical shipping passages in the world, the destination has long played a vital role in the country’s development, and with the planned new facilities at the port, hailed as the world’s second largest bunkering port, Fujairah is set to witness exponential growth over the coming years.

The proposed projects are expected to almost double the emirate’s population with a large number of foreign workers set to relocate to Fujairah to support the developments, generating a new wave of business for the emirate, and further increasing the demand for air travel, accommodation, and related services.

SHAPING A NEW CHAPTER The investment and economic constituents coupled with the comprehensive development projects have given the emirate a strong momentum that also earned Fujairah the honour to host the 4th Gulf Tourism and

Investment Forum in November 2012. Co-organised by the Fujairah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the event promoted Fujairah as a gate for the GCC countries to the world, boasting vast investment potential.

These large-scale developments are gradually improving the emirate’s macro- and microeconomic conditions, shaping the future of Fujairah and helping it firmly establish itself as one of the main attractions of the UAE, according to Syed Noaman Masood, director of sales and marketing, Al Diar Siji Hotel and Siji Hotel Apartments.

“Dubai has become the icon of the UAE, but over the past few years, Fujairah has come into the limelight as one of the best Northern Emirates to visit. […]

Due to the attractions and the pleasant weather yearround, Fujairah has become a place to visit while in the UAE,” said Masood, noting that companies working across the emirate’s various industries, with their head offices in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, are continuously setting up sub-offices in Fujairah, creating a large pool of potential clients for the hotel sector, while during holiday seasons the balance tends to tip toward leisure guests, creating a healthy business mix for the emirate.

Although Fujairah is in a phase of steady development, the competition with other emirates is getting more and more intense year after year, as Satish Gujaran, duty manager, Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort, highlighted. “Most of the tourists are still visiting Dubai, as it is one of the best destinations for relaxation and luxury,” indicated Gujaran, noting that Fujairah, with its strategic location, tranquility, pleasant weather, and developing infrastructure is well positioned to claim a larger share of the UAE’s flourishing tourism industry.

Sharing similarly positive views, Ashraf Helmy, general manager, Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort, expects a successful period in the coming 

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Fujairah

months. “Fujairah’s tourism sector is growing rapidly and planning great strategies to attract new people,” he noted, further remarking on the changing market trends and demographic shifts. “[Over the past years] the CIS market increased dramatically and became the biggest segment, while the German market came in second instead of first. The British market shrunk while the Scandinavian and the rest of the markets remain the same,” Helmy added.

Statistics released by the Fujairah Tourism & Antiquities Authority underscore Helmy’s point, with Russia proving to be the destination’s main overseas market in the first eight months of 2012, and the European countries, in general, contributing to a large proportion of guest numbers.

the growing trend does reinforce the fact that sometimes what we are looking for was right in front of us the whole time.”

Moreover, Kamal anticipates increased business volumes from the Eastern European countries as well as niche markets, such as Italy or China, as he explained, “We also expect higher growth of the East and West European markets as a shift from similar resort destinations, such as Sharm El Sheikh, Syria or Beirut.”

Kamal also lay emphasis on the recently-introduced direct air services linking Fujairah and Abu Dhabi, which he believes are set to give a significant boost to the emirate’s tourism sector; an active presence in international travel trade shows and effective

Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort

However, while exploring new markets, with a special focus on the CIS countries, hoteliers still strongly rely on the local market, especially during holiday seasons and weekends, as Hossam Kamal, general manager, Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa, suggested, shedding the light on a newly emerging trend in the emirate’s hotel sector. “One of the new guest trends we saw in 2012 is what we call ’the staycation’, where local tourism witnessed a significant increase of 32-36 percent compared to 2011,” Kamal noted, further elaborating on the term.

“Guests were previously inclined to travel abroad and to a certain degree, neglected the closer beauties of the surrounding countries, in the search of new and faraway destinations. However, with travellers here being keen to ‘economise’, they looked around for closer destination in addition to better value options.”

The shifting travel patterns have begun to shape a new chapter in Fujairah’s tourism industry, as Kamal highlighted, “We witnessed an increase in the inter UAE, inter GCC and more widely, inter Middle East travel, which was supported by the increase in budget airlines now allowing people to travel for long weekends.

“Of course, the ‘staycation’ is never going to entirely replace the traditional long-haul holiday, but

marketing and promotional initiatives, he stated, can further enhance Fujairah’s standing a must-visit destination.

STIFFENING COMPETITION In line with the emirate’s anticipated growth over the coming years, Accor alone is set to add over 400 rooms to Fujairah’s room inventory, Karim Zaki, group general manager, Accor, confirmed, revealing that the 182-room ibis-, 72-unit adagio-, and 182-key Novotelbranded hotels are due to open in the third quarter of the year, with the latter offering 1,300m2 of events space with seven meeting rooms.

Part of a large residential community with freehold villas and apartments, Fairmont Fujairah will boasts 182 rooms and suites, once it opens in 2014. Besides six food and beverage outlets, spa and fitness facilities, a pool, a beach with water sport facilities, alongside meeting space, and a marina will also be available.

To keep up with the growing competition, the emirate’s existing properties are continuously upgrading their facilities and amenities.

In response to the growing demand from the corporate sector, Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort is gearing up for the upcoming launch of a newly dedicated facility, as Helmy revealed, informing that

the resort’s new complex of meeting rooms is set to be unveiled by the end of May. “It will consist of three big conference, wedding, and meeting rooms and two breakout rooms, and one of the meeting rooms can be divided into two smaller meeting rooms,” he clarified.

Also outlining further development plans, Shah explained, “Coral Suites Hotel is planning to start a huge expansion this year, by building its own adjoining tower right next to the hotel with swimming pool, gym, sauna, steam room, spa, banqueting halls, and private parking lot.”

Likewise, Royal Beach Hotel & Resort is also looking to expand its room inventory, said Abou Jaoude, and joining the announcements, Gujaran further revealed that the management team has

Due to the attractions and the pleasant weather year-round, Fujairah has become a place to visit while in the UAE proposed plans to add more rooms and new outlets to the property, as an increasing number of travellers look to explore the UAE and Fujairah. “In Fujairah, all facilities are available for guests whether [looking for] luxury or leisure options as there are many four- and five-star hotels, shopping centres, antiques, and traditional markets,” Gujaran said.

Expressing similar views, Shah noted that with a modern sea port, a free zone, and an international airport, the emirate boasts great opportunities for both tourism and business.

Also conveying high hopes for the future, Fekry concluded, “We are looking forward to an increase in hotel performance this year, although the competition will be more aggressive with the opening of more hotels that makes this year a very challenging period. The newly established infrastructure in Fujairah is very helpful for travellers who are planning to visit the emirate, thus we are extensively promoting the property as we expect an upsurge in the number of visitors.”  FEBRUARY 2013

Kuwait

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The Only Way is Up Following a slightly turbulent 2012, Kuwait is safely and securely ready to welcome all those who wish to visit a place providing only the most superior hospitality offerings and boasting continuously-upgraded, first-class services, as travel and tourism professionals across the country look forward to a horizon which seems to be flashing signs of recovery.

 Stefanie Saghbini

I

writes

nvestments into Kuwait’s burgeoning travel and tourism sector are increasing at a rapid pace, as the country is expected to welcome some 500,000 visitors overall from its top 10 inbound MENA tourism markets alone this year, according to Euromonitor International’s forecasts.

World Travel & Tourism Council’s Economic Impact 2012 report for Kuwait, reported an upsurge in investments of 13.4 percent over 2011, while direct contribution of travel and tourism to the country’s GDP is forecasted to have risen by 4.5 percent, to reach KWD1,195.5 million (USD4.2 billion) in 2012.

According to the research, this primarily reflecting the economic activity generated in industries such as hotels, travel agents, airlines, and other passenger transportation services, as well as restaurant and leisure industries directly supported by tourists.

Moreover, total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP is expected to have increased some five percent to KWD2,558.5 million (USD9.1 billion) in 2012, representing 5.4 percent of the country’s GDP. All-in-all, the strongest feeder market to Kuwait in terms of inbound tourism has long been Saudi Arabia, which is expected to contribute to 314,000 of the total 500,000 incoming MENA visitors expected this year, this according to predictions released by EuFEBRUARY 2013

KUWAIT IN BRIEF Capital: Kuwait City Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) Language: Arabic

romonitor International.

Following closely behind, at an expected 86,900 tourists to Kuwait, is Egypt, while arrivals from Oman are estimated to reach 30,800, in addition to Qatar, UAE, and Syria, which are set to contribute to 22,500, 18,100, and 8,300 inbound tourism figures respectively. Lebanon, Iran, Bahrain, and Jordan, also fall under the forecasted top 10 inbound markets to Kuwait this year, at 6,000, 4,500, 3,500, and 2,600 visitors respectively.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS TRI Hospitality Consulting’s HotStats MENA Chain Hotels Market Review November 2012 has revealed that despite the country’s capital, Kuwait City, having reported an increase of 0.3 percentage points in occupancy figures across surveyed hotels in the city, other performance indicators, such as average room rate (ARR), dropped 19.5 percent to USD239.78, resulting in a decrease in RevPAR levels of 19 percent, reaching USD141.52.

Meanwhile, total RevPAR increased 1.2 percent although this did little to counteract the reduction in gross operating profit per available room, which dropped 9.1 percent to USD152.04, as a result of higher operational costs. Peter Goddard, managing director, TRI Hospitality Consulting, Dubai, largely blames the results on the intensified protests which, he said, were sparked by recent political issues, thus causing a nationwide panic, resulting in high yielding leisure visitors avoiding travel to Kuwait City, as he further explained, “Although the rate agreement provides a level of protection from demand variations, a sharp drop in leisure and group demand has an impact on top line revenues as hotels become heavily reliant on discounted corporate business.

“Although the events of November [2012] seem to have receded, the on-going political instability will have a strong bearing on the hotel performance in Kuwait as the hotel demand in the city is heavily driven by corporate and government sectors.”

Sharing a similar opinion to Goddard’s, with regards to the situation in Kuwait, Amal Mikahil, director of marketing communication, JW Marriott Kuwait City and Courtyard by Marriott Kuwait Hotel, described 2012 as a challenging year, as the government continues to reassure visitors that the country is safe and open for business.

In addition, she also referred to Kuwait as a purely business and financial destination, further stating that, as such, the majority of the properties’ guests is business people, and with reference to nationality, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain are the hotels’ most significant source markets. “Marriott, like much of the local hotel industry, primarily depends on government business and oil and gas giant. […] Compared to regional countries, visitors tend to spend short periods of time in Kuwait for business,” she explained.

“From time to time, JW Marriott Kuwait City hotel and Courtyward by Mariott City hotel actively launch weekend and holidays-stay packages for families from neighbouring countries. This forms the small leisure segment for ‘tourism’ in the country. Around 10 percent of the total inbound traffic can be considered leisure or tourists,” Mikahil continued.

Along parallel lines, Rana Mneimneh, director of sales and marketing, Swiss-bel Hotel Plaza Kuwait, said, “Kuwait’s economy has been growing at a fast rate in recent years. The inbound travel market in Kuwait is a small majority which is business travel. Meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) are taking place.” 

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Kuwait

View from Hotel Missoni Kuwait

Silk Road Restaurant, The Regency Kuwait

She further pointed out that Kuwait City is expected to witness a rise in projects throughout the year and, as a result, this will increase the number of business travellers to the capital and, in turn, set a slight improvement in terms of occupancy and ARR. In fact, the team at Swiss-bel Hotel Plaza Kuwait is targeting corporate clients hailing mostly from the local market as well as from the region including UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Lebanon, as Mneimneh continued explaining, further indicating that in addition to these, India, Japan, and South Korea from Asia; Egypt from Africa; and France, UK, and Italy from Europe, were the property’s most significant segments overall in terms of nationality.

Another property highly popular among the international segment, albeit even more so among the regional market, is ibis Kuwait which saw growth from China and South Korea, while the Americas continued to maintain a good position as well, this according to Bruno Debray, general manager, ibis Kuwait, who underlined the GCC and the Middle East as the main feeder markets. Remaining positive with regards to overall performance this year, similar to reasons shared by Mneimneh, Debray said, “We remain optimistic and confident with Kuwait’s market potential. Projects are coming up and it will attract more corporate business. The government segment is strong as always and we expect our share.”

Hotel Missoni Kuwait is yet another property which was largely dominated by the regional market in 2012, in particular by Kuwaitis, who represented 55 percent of the entire clientele base, followed by Saudi Arabia at 13 percent, and UAE at 10 percent, as Alfio Bernardini, general manager, Hotel Missoni Kuwait, clarified, further announcing what he described as great growth from within the local market over figures recorded in 2011.

Kamal Ballout, general manager, Kuwait Hyatt Hotels also highly praised the property’s business guests as the strongest contributors to performance levels in 2012, witnessing an increase from the Saudi Arabian leisure segment during holidays.

Aurelio Giraudo, general manager, The Regency Kuwait, also mentioned that the hotel will seek to attract the country’s popular incoming corporate seg-

Kuwait’s economy has been growing at a fast rate in recent years.

The inbound travel market in Kuwait is a small majority which is business travel ment, particularly from the local, as well as US and European markets, similar to that of 2012, which, he indicated, was a good year for the property, where a 10 percent increase was recorded in occupancy levels against 2011. “Meetings and conferences are a core part of our business and we believe this area will grow as our services and outlets are expanded. With the largest hotel-based meeting facilities in Kuwait, our meetings and conventions are appreciated by meeting planners looking for flexible and extensive space,” he commented.

A YEAR OF GREAT CHANGE Giraudo went on to express excitement for the announcement of a new phase of enhancement, following the The Regency Kuwait’s multi-million dollar ren-

ovation in 2009, as he explained, “This will include the opening of an upscale Italian restaurant in addition to a gourmet shop, both slated to open in the first quarter of the year. This will enlarge the choice of outlets for guests and will allow the hotel to showcase the many talents of the team of international pastry chefs who hail from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

“After the huge success of a trial butler service, the hotel is rolling out a full butler service for guests staying in our sumptuous suites. As part of the upgrading of luxury services, we are introducing high-end Bulgari amenities in all guestrooms. An expanded stateof-the-art fitness studio will open in the near future to better serve our corporate and leisure travellers’ and a seafood restaurant with ocean views is under consideration.”

In addition, he revealed that despite the hotel striving to maintain its room rates, there has been a healthy increase in revenue, thanks to the extensive improvement of the product over the last few months, which, he assured, is guaranteed to offer guests better value for money.

Moreover, the five-star 313-room JW Marriott Kuwait City and the corporate 264-room Courtyard by Marriott Kuwait Hotel recently completed upgrades to high-speed wireless connectivity in all rooms, while the main buffet restaurants at both hotels kept up with the ever-changing pace of new global food presentations, having introduced international concepts, according to Mikahil, who added, “A refurbishment project is also underway at the JW Marriott Kuwait City to take guest comfort to the next level this year. At the standalone prestigious Arraya Ballroom, located adjacent to the Courtyard, a ‘new level of creativity’ was introduced to offer enhanced levels of service to exceed the country’s expectations with global MICE and social event standards, through the introduction of new glassware, chinaware, enhanced sound, and lighting techniques, and international food presentation styles.”

Kuwait Hyatt Hotel is also placing emphasis on improving the product and services it offers its guests, as Ballout revealed, “The latest development at Kuwait Hyatt Hotel is the ongoing renovation of the rooms and the expansion of the banquet rooms […] and, of course, the famous 500m2 garden by adding waterfalls and establishing a safe haven for birds, thus transferring the hotel into an oasis in the desert.”

Another hotel currently ongoing renovation is Swiss-bel Hotel Plaza Kuwait, which, upon completion, is set to go into major refurbishment, as Mneimneh informed. “The lobby area is revamped, incorporated with its modern look and colours; more space in the lobby area so guests will feel at ease upon checking in the hotel. Most of the floors are totally renovated including furniture, carpets, bathrooms, and all TVs; the rest of the floors are partially renovated with new bathrooms and each guest room also containing state-of-the-art technology, including 32-inch flat screen LCD TVs and Internet cable connectivity. The remaining job will be finished by the first quarter of the year,” she continued.

FEBRUARY 2013

Kuwait Meanwhile, ibis Kuwait also recently announced the relaunch of one of its outlets, namely La Terrazzo, at ibis Salmiya, which overlooks the Arabian Gulf, and is expecting more hotels to open under the brand this year, as Debray further announced.

Radisson Blu Hotel Kuwait is set to re-open its main building in the second quarter of the year, which will also reveal the new face of the well-known and recognised restaurants including the all-day dining Al Bustan, which will serve international cuisine, and Peacock, a fine dining, award-winning Chinese restaurant. The hotel is also in the process of developing a brand new 340m2 high-tech ballroom comprising five adjacent meeting rooms, with the possibility of being divided into two soundproof meeting areas.

Also remaining on par with technology and, as Bernardini indicated, to stay on top of what is happening and ahead of competition, Hotel Missoni Kuwait will soon be launching an advanced smartphone application whereby guests will be able to book their stay, make a room service order, and even book a table at any of the hotel’s food and beverage outlets.

In addition, Giraudo also stressed the importance of technology, and more so social media, as a vital tool and has thus brought to light the value of providing those who publicly voice their opinions through such means, with a personal response simultaneously addressing every concern.

World Travel & Tourism Council’s Economic Impact 2012 report for Kuwait, reported an upsurge in investments of 13.4 percent over 2011 while direct contribution of travel and tourism to the country’s GDP is forecasted to have risen by 4.5 percent, to reach KWD1,195.5 million (USD4.2 billon) in 2012

DOMINATING THE SKIES Jazeera Airways, recently issued its November 2012 Operational Performance Report which showed that the airline grabbed increasing market shares to destinations including Amman, Cairo, Beirut, and Jeddah.

The report, which presents figures based on official statistics from Kuwait’s Directorate General for Civil Aviation, also proved that the airline retained its market share lead on key routes, and a continued lead in on-time performance (OTP) against all other airlines in the Middle East, as ranked by the independent US-based OTP tracker FlightStats. “This comes after two years of being the leader in OTP in the Middle East, in 2012 and 2011,” commented Martin Aeberli, vice president, network and revenue management, Jazeera Airways.

The airline’s OTP for the month was 97.6 percent, FEBRUARY 2013

JW Marriott Kuwait City

making the country’s low-cost carrier the most punctual airline in the Middle East for the 23rd month in-arow, according to FlightStats.

The report also showed that Jazeera Airways became the leading airline serving the Kuwait - Amman route, grabbing a 39 percent market share during the month, equivalent to a two percent rise from the corresponding month in 2011.

Jazeera Airways also claimed a 30 percent market share on the Kuwait Cairo route, up six percent from November 2011, while the airline also recorded a 28 percent increase in the number of passengers on the route, compared to the same month in 2011.

On the Kuwait - Dubai route, Jazeera Airways was the leading Kuwaiti airline by a significant lead, with a 16 percent market share, accompanied by a nine percent growth in the number of passengers on the route, compared to November 2011.

In addition, a 22 percent increase in the number of passengers on the Kuwait - Jeddah route was also reported by the airline, which led to it claiming a 13 percent market share on the service, up

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nine percent from November 2011, and six percent from October 2012.

Between the popular expats destination of Sohag and Kuwait, Jazeera Airways continued to grow and lead on the route, since its launch two years ago, with a 51 percent market share, up 16 percent from November 2011 and eight percent from October 2012.

The number of passengers also increased by 24 percent, on the Kuwait - Sohag service.

Other report highlights include that the airline was the leading Kuwaiti airline to the high-demand destinations of Beirut and Bahrain, claiming market shares of 40 percent and nine percent, respectively.

Jazeera Airways also captured leading market share figures on another three of the five Egyptian destinations it served during November 2012, seizing a 27 percent market share on the Kuwait - Alexandria route, a 60 percent market share on the Kuwait - Assiut route, and a 74 percent market share on the Kuwait - Luxor route.

“We are the most profitable airline in the region and in the past year, we have probably achieved the highest profit margin in the global airline industry,” Aeberli stated, adding that having gained a critical market size, the strategic focus, since 2009, has been on growing the profitability and the shareholders’ value over the following years. 

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TOUR

Thailand

Orient Opulence  Maria Kazeli

writes

THAILAND IN BRIEF

D

espite the global economy slowdown, which has had little impact on tourist arrivals to Thailand, 2012 ended with over 21 million people having visited the Asian country, while Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), is confident that some 24.5 million travellers are set to touch down on the tourism hotspot, bringing in an estimated income of THB1.15 billion (USD37.7 million).

With the total number of visitors from the Middle East to Thailand for 2012 amounting to 440,063, Chalermsak Suranant, director, Dubai and Middle East office, TAT, admitted, “The Middle East market is very important for Thailand. They are very generous travellers mainly because they travel with their families.”

Figures by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Thailand further show that from January to June 2012, UAE nationals spent USD180.94 per day per capita, the highest amongst all international visitors and spenders to the country.

Capital: Bangkok Currency: Thai Baht (THB) Language: Thai

Thai Temple

Spa and Wellness

THAI HOSPITALITY Hotels in Thailand pay special attention to their amenities in order to accommodate their Arab guests, who appreciate central locations, near halal restaurants and shopping venues, and as Peter Henley, CEO, ONYX Hospitality Group, explained, while introducing the company’s two new hotels set to open in 2014, “Both OZO Chaweng Samui and OZO Pattaya will target Middle East visitors who demand and appreciate quality value accommodation, in central locations, where simplicity, comfort, and accessibility is combined with innovative technology.”

In addition, Patrick Basset, senior vice president, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines, Accor, also highlighted the importance of the Arab guest, stressing that the majority of Accor hotels in the Thailand portfolio provide Arabic channels, prayer mats, and Qibla pointers upon request, while some of the hotels offer halal food options.

“One of the pillars of our service philosophy is an innate understanding of guests’ religious and cultural sensitivities, and [we] will endeavour to provide every guest with service to put them at ease and exceed their expectation,” noted Christoph Voegeli, general manager, Royal Cliff Hotels Group, emphasising on the cultural aspect of the market.

Another upcoming hotel which takes into consideration this important emerging market is Tune Hotel Patong located in Phuket, a very popular destination for the Middle East traveller, according to Mark Armsden, senior vice president, sales and marketing, Red Planet Hotels.

A variety of hotels seek to promote a choice of luxury to Middle Eastern visitors, with Andreas Korf, general manager, Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket, explaining that the property provides

the privacy, luxury, and exclusivity that guests from that region need for themselves and their families, boasting large, multi-bedroom, private pool villas, alongside four-bedroom, penthouse pool suites, and two-bedroom luxury suites.

As Arab families travel in large family groups, they prefer spacious rooms but also family-friendly resorts, underlined Glenn de Souza, vice president, international operations, Asia and the Middle East, Best Western International, who further noted that BEST WESTERN PLUS Serenity Hua Hin is situated in a royal town, very family-orientated, with restaurants, shops, and attractions. He also expressed the belief that the hotel will become popular with visitors of the Arab region.

Apart from unique accommodation options, exclusive privileges are on offer in Thailand, such as the shopping companion service. “For up to three hours a day, the Banyan Tree Bangkok shopping expert will accompany guests on a hunt for special buys at the best prices; they know the way, speak the language, and offer first-hand tips on what to select and how to strike a great bargain,” said Tareq Bagaeen, director of sales and marketing, Banyan Tree Bangkok.

Adding another feather in the cap for Thailand, Janusz Koniak, managing director, Ultima Travel, praised the exceptional attention to detail by tour operators, explaining that guides arrange tours in such way to avoid the programme clashing with prayer, and are also dressed modestly with respect to the Middle East culture.

ALL-ROUND HEALING RETREAT Travellers to Thailand can also benefit from the excel-

Thailand has rapidly become an ideal destination for travellers from all walks of life, attracting millions to its shores annually, thousands of which hail from the Middle East region, who appreciate the country’s unparalleled services and offerings. lent spa and medical facilities available, a niche sector popular among the Middle East market, as Suranant revealed. “With regard to medical tourism, which covers major operation and surgery, the Middle East is one of the most important markets to Thailand since there is an increasing demand from the private patients and many government offices from the region choose Thailand as a hub to treat their patients.”

Thus, Patty Lerdwittayaskul, director of marketing communications, Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, anticipates that the hotel’s i.sawan Residential Spa & Club, which provides spa accommodation, treatments, and relaxation, will attract more travellers from Middle East who look for a wellness retreat in the capital city.

Another part of Thailand greatly appreciated by Middle Eastern tourists, are the country’s beach attractions. “Phuket is still considered the best beach destination, which most of our guest like to enjoy and is now made easier by having more direct flights from the Middle East area into Phuket International Airport,” Hans van den Born, managing director, Thailand, Diethelm Travel, confirmed.

TAKING-OFF For ease of access to the popular tourism hub from the region, Thailand’s national carrier, Thai Airways, operates daily flights from Dubai and three weekly flights from Muscat to its Bangkok hub. “Since Thailand is one of the favourite destinations from Middle East especially from the UAE, there is a steady and strong growth of demand, plus TAT is very active in the region to fast-track the growth,” Somchai Sukkhasantikul, general manager, UAE and the Middle East, Thai Airways, explained.

Another local airline operating to the Middle East is Bangkok Airways, whose passenger demand will increase through added promotion, this according to Peter Wiesner, senior vice president, network management, Bangkok Airways.  FEBRUARY 2013

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EXCLUSIVE

Family Travel

A Holiday to Remember

Junior GT - Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

For those embarking on a trip with the family to the Middle East, a quality and memory-filled vacation lies ahead, with options such as sky-nanny services, hotel babysitting facilities, fun-filled parks, and adventurous outdoor activities only a few of the large array of family-orientated holiday opportunities in store.  Maria Kazeli

A

writes

considerable amount of destinations, hotels, and tours catering for families with children of all ages is widely available across the Middle East, offering a variety of options to accommodate the entire family, whether that means action and adventure for teenagers or something a little more laid-back, albeit fun, for younger kids.

As Nasser Al Salmi, chief operating officer, Gulf Air, attested, in the Arab region you find more and larger families travelling very often on vacation and it is important to cater to this segment differently.

This growing trend can be seen in the region’s hotel sector which is, in turn, witnessing an upsurge in clientele which fall under the family segment, as Shaf Butt, director of marketing, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, confirmed, explaining that the property continues to see positive results each year; a firm demonstration that families are more willing to travel.

The same view was shared by Hossam Kamal, general manager, Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa, who announced that year-on-year increase in figures in the family market

for 2012 reached 10 percent. “Additionally, [there is a rise in the] hotels/resorts culture, where most of families realise the importance of getting away and relaxing, while being served in hotels and resorts, at the same time ensuring that their kids are being taken care of by professional hotel/resorts entertainers,” he explained.

Butt further admitted that the Middle East family, in particular, is a very important segment for Jumeirah Beach Hotel. “The recent room updates have been really well-received and are popular due to the increase in room space which is important for the Middle East market,” Butt said.

Fredrik Reinisch, general manager, Jebel Ali Golf Resort, explained that at the Palm Tree Court, family market has grown in 2012 over 2011, due to the investment the hotel made in terms of child-friendly services and facilities. “Since we added the luxury villa, The Residence at Palm Tree Court, in October 2012, we have seen an increase in travellers from the Middle East. This villa offers larger living space and more bedrooms, which suit larger families. It is a great advantage to have the privacy of a luxurious apartment, yet still be part of the family resort,” he added.

The importance of regional family travel is apparent up in the air as well, as airlines of the Middle East, which

highly value their customers, rapidly recognise that travelling families are a very important segment, something which Al Salmi stressed. “Gulf Air, which is known for its Arabian hospitality, has combined its hallmark Arabian hospitality with a family-friendly package including a professionally trained Sky Nanny service.

“The Sky Nanny service is very popular particularly among Arab travellers who usually travel as large families with kids; as the kids are taken care of, both on the ground and in the air, by the nannies, so that parents are free to do their work, watch a movie, read a book, [and so on],” he further commented.

Moreover, the Bahrain-based carrier offers many more additional services such as an airport family check-in counter, priority baggage claim, and a special seating zone.

Similarly, Qatar Airways has indoor playgrounds at Doha International Airport and offers baby packs for the younger travellers, including feeding bottles, nappies, and baby powder.

FUN UP FOR GRABS The GCC region remains a strong market for many family attractions as well, such as Al Ain Zoo, which welFEBRUARY 2013

Family Travel comed more than 930,000 people in 2012, of which the top 10 nationalities included Omani, Emirati, and Jordanian citizens at a total percentage exceeding 22 percent, this according to Thomas McGill, acting director zoo and wildlife park operations, Al Ain Zoo. Moreover, Al Tamimi Stables Sharjah, which recently opened to the public, expects its key audiences to include families across the Middle East and the UAE, especially those with children between six to 12 years old, according to Brian Galligan, general manager, Al Tamimi Stables.

Fun City is an indoor playground which branches out to central locations all over the region, and is yet another family attraction at the disposal of younger travellers. Silvio Liedtke, chief operating officer, Landmark Leisure, part of Landmark Group, owning company of Fun City, assures parents that the venue is safe and offers high quality services with a highly trained team, which boasts education, qualifications, and work experience with children of all age groups, available in all its outlets.

Moreover, Dubai Dolphinarium is another indoor facility which the little ones will certainly enjoy, as Armen Kostanyan, sales and marketing manager, Dubai Dolphinarium, explained, “It offers its visitors the one and only live dolphin performance in the region and a fantastic opportunity to swim with the dolphins.” Swimming session are available for visitors of five years and above.

In addition to entertainment, many attractions also have an educational element for children such as the UAE capital’s falcon hospital, which, according to Margit Gabriele Muller, director, Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, emphasised includes interaction with falcons, something she believes is interesting for children and adults alike, while the birds are small and suitable for young ones.

Driving fast cars is possible in Abu Dhabi, even for little children, and this can be found at several attractions which are specifically designed for young kids, such as Junior GT and Junior Training Camp, where they can play in the waterless carwash, pilot remote cars, peddle their own Ferrari, and play with a Formula 1 car, made entirely of safe, kid-friendly foam, explained Bruno Wiley, sales director, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

Many hotels in the region are famed for their family-friendly character, such as Jumeirah Beach Hotel which offers complimentary access to Wild Wadi Waterpark for all its guests, while babysitting and childcare services are also available at the hotel’s kids club, as Butt informed.

Jihane El Fadl, marketing communications manager, Wild Wadi Waterpark, expressed the belief that parents will love the park because there is something for everyone. “The park has also a compact size which makes it easy for parents to look after their children,” she added.

Emil Nilsson, assistant director of sales (leisure), Mina Seyahi Complex, pointed out the many possibilities for children at the properties’ club, namely Penguin Club, which, he said, offers an array of fun activities which include arts and crafts, painting, games and snorkelling, in addition to several sport activities for the younger guest such as table tennis, tennis, basketball, and volleyball.

FEBRUARY 2013

TEEN SPIRIT In contrast to the little guests, teenagers demand a lot more and this request can be met with the large palette of adventurous escapes on offer in the Middle East.

Desert Islands, Abu Dhabi, and, in particular, Arabian Wildlife Park, which is located on Sir Bani Yas Island, the largest of the eight islands which make up Desert Islands, present endless opportunities for mountain biking, kayaking, snorkelling, archery, and horse riding. “For day tours, our most popular is the nature and wildlife drive as this gives guests the chance to explore the island and the wildlife, as well as learn more about Sir Bani Yas Island’s history, even if it is a one day visit,” explained Clayton Kensley, activities and recreation manager, Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara.

Sky Nanny Service - Gulf Air

Various travel agencies organise trips which utilise the wilderness of the region’s landscape, such as Gulf Leisure Tours, whose most popular day tours for families with teenagers are The Wahiba Sands; a fullday tour which includes quad biking and a camel ride, and also the trip to Sur and Wadi Shab, where a fourwheel drive can allow visitors to experience some offroading and wadi bashing, driving in dry river beds, explained Clare Mitchell, operations director, Gulf Leisure Tours, a UK-based company which organises tours exclusively to Oman.

Another exciting activity in Oman is dolphin watching, which is popular for all ages, as Ameen Muhammed, manager, Sidab Sea Tours, explained.

A different and rather unique experience, which will definitely fascinate teenagers, kids, and parents alike, is hot-air ballooning; a great activity for the whole family, cool enough for the kids to enjoy, and

EXCLUSIVE

17

something which parents appreciate, according to Amber McIntyre, marketing manager, Balloon Adventures Emirates, who added that the company even gets grandparents joining in.

Canyoning, a widely popular adventure day trip where parents and teenagers can share a challenge, is something which Marie de Peyrecave, sales and marketing, Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre, highly recommends. “The discovery of the desert is also a must for all ages; teenagers will enjoy sand-boarding or camel riding, younger ones will love rolling in the dunes.”

HEAVEN FOR FAMILY VACATION Just one of the characteristics that make the Middle East an ideal destination for families is the good weather all year round, as El Fadl noted, adding that pleasant weather is a big factor in the waterpark business; especially when temperatures are high, everyone enjoys a visit to a refreshing aquapark.

And even if the weather becomes too hot to bear, many attractions, such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, are located indoors and offer the highest level of comfort in an air-conditioned venue with unique entertainment options during the hot summer period, this according to Wiley.

Butt agreed that Dubai offers many exciting activities and a plethora of attractions to keep families entertained, while Nilsson observed, “As a wider audience become more aware of the UAE and the availability of family friendly hotels and facilities, there is definitely an indication that the family market will grow. We see all around various facilities that were built or are being built with families in mind.”

Reinisch expressed the same view and indicated that Dubai has great plans to provide some more child-friendly landmarks in the coming years, something which, he said, will promote the city as a destination for the entire family.

Hussein Hachem, cluster general manager, Al Bustan and Al Murooj Rotana Dubai, lauded the collective efforts in promoting the UAE, also expressing the belief that Dubai will further develop into a family destination. “The government is also doing a great job in promoting the country and the city as a worldclass family destination and has come up with really interesting programmes that showcase Dubai internationally. All the other industries like hospitality, airline and travel also feature great deals for families.”

Even though Bahrain is mainly a business destination, as Amid Yazji, executive assistant manager, Novotel Al Dana Resort, claimed the hotel saw a rise of 20 percent in the segment for 2012, mainly due to the very tempting packages designed to attract this market offering free accommodation and breakfast for two kids up to 16 years old.

Oman is also on its way to becoming a favourite family destination, as hotels in Muscat offer more family friendly services, Mitchell believes, while de Peyrecave noted, “[Oman] is an authentic country at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, a country that you want to share; a real treasure of discoveries for families.” 

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INVESTIGATION

Golf

Another Round?

Al Hamra Golf Club

Golf has long been one of the most popular niche segments under the tourism umbrella, with 2012 having proved to be an excellent year for lovers of the sport, and with ongoing developments in the pipeline set to improve the region’s golf services and facilities, this year already looks promising.

Also eyeing golf lovers closer to home, the Northern Emirates Golf Pass has seen a very positive uptake since its launch and it has helped all three of the participating clubs to attract some new business from the local market, Mees explained. “In order to continue to drive consumers our way and to encourage Dubai-based residents to leave the confines of Dubai, we have, over the last couple of seasons, worked closely with the other two clubs based in the Northern Emirates.”

Al Hamra Golf Club offers all levels of golfers an experience within varying teeing grounds, suitable for the newest recruits to the game or the seasoned professional, as Mees explined, “We also like to think that it gives the player a sense of relaxation, with quiet and peaceful surroundings rather than many of those in the UAE that are set amongst the hustle and bustle of major city life.”

 Dominique Christou writes

T

he golf industry as a whole, in the last few years, has had to become more pro-active in their approach to attract business; with new destinations emerging and with longhaul travel becoming even more accessible, it has changed the way in which not only golf clubs, but any tourism business looks at the market, this according to Simon Mees, general manager, Al Hamra Golf Club, Ras Al Khaimah.

Having performed well in 2012, with improved financial figures, the forecast for this year is also looking extremely positive, as Mees explained, clarifying that there are advanced bookings from overseas visitors showing further growth, and additionally he believes that the various hotel facilities slated to open in the coming months should also contribute to another successful year for the establishment.

Listing the German and British golf tourists as the main source segments for the club, Mees pointed out that the Scandinavian market also falls under the club’s top three clientele base, having witnessed a large increase especially over the last year. “We do

PROSPEROUS YEAR AHEAD

also see some business from the Italian market which, as a golfing nation, seems to be developing; [this] will only result in more golf-related travel.”

Furthermore, the team at Al Hamra Golf Club is currently targeting new and promising markets, with the recent launch of a web-based initiative in China, considered as a developing market with large potential as Mees explained, adding, “Internationally we have worked closely with a couple of operators to develop packages which would prove attractive to their sectors along with introducing packages, such as seven days unlimited golf which has seen a fantastic response.”

Likewise, Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club has also been witness to considerable growth over the past two years in terms of performance levels, with positive results also expected this year, according to David White, sales and marketing manager, Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club, who described the Sultanate as a country on its way to becoming a premier golfing destination. “There appears to be considerable European and German markets playing golf in Oman,” commented White, further noting that the club’s main source markets hail from Europe and the GCC. Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club is built in its own district corner of the capital’s rugged hills, and etched by canyon-like wadis, all 19 holes boast views over the Al Hajar Mountains with the sea in the distance.

Revealing upcoming developments, White informed that construction on new hotels and a club house is set to commence soon.  FEBRUARY 2013

20

INVESTIGATION

Golf

BASKING IN TEE TIME Moreover, offering a nine-hole golf course in Dubai, in addition to a range of other activities such as diving, riding, and water sports, is Jebel Ali Golf Resort, which, according to James Williams, director of golf, Jebel Ali Golf Resort, has seen improvements in revenue and the number of players on the course, year-on-year.

And similar to Al Hamra Golf Club and Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club, the horizon looks positive, as Williams explained, “We expect to continue growing this year as the resort has added new rooms and facilities to its offerings which will, in turn, bring more business for the golf course.”

In order to keep visitor levels high, Jebel Ali Golf Resort always ensures prices are competitive and reflective of what is going on in the rest of the world as well as in the local market, indicated Williams, adding that the property has numerous different rates and packages which aim to provide the best value fitting exactly to the customers’ needs.

He further noted that the previous years showed an increase in larger groups coming to play golf, whereas over the last six months, there has been an increase in couples and individuals playing the course.

“Obviously the economic climate has a great impact on the types of golfers we receive and we can usually mirror our players to what is happening with the economy throughout the world.”

With visitors from Germany and Switzerland being regulars on the course, the UK has, for some time now, still been a major market, with German-speaking countries in Europe also on an upward trajectory, particularly Austria, Williams highlighted.

Furthermore, Dubai Golf boasted over 150,000 rounds of golf played across both its managed clubs, Emirates Golf Club and Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, by members, residents, and international visitors, this according to Christopher May, CEO, Dubai Golf, who emphasised that March 2012, in particular, was an exceptionally good month, not just for Dubai Golfmanaged courses but for the entire UAE. “Over 50,000 rounds were played with over 44 percent of these being member rounds, 42 percent local rounds, and 14 percent of rounds coming from overseas visitors,” he said, further

Jebel Ali Golf Resort

underlining the results as a fantastic achievement.

Commenting on the company’s world-renowned championship courses, May added, “When you talk about our courses, they are some of the best maintained and mature courses you could come across in the region; this really sets us apart. We also have some very exciting signature holes, such as at Dubai Creek where we have the sixth tee which is a floating tee and is very exciting to play.”

With a landmark year ahead for Dubai Golf, as Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club celebrates its 20th anniversary and Emirates Golf Club the ‘Desert Miracle’ marks its 25th anniversary, figures, in terms of golf rounds played

across both clubs, are expected to surpass 2012 levels.

Describing Dubai as a market leader, having become a hub for the golfing tourist, May continued, “We have visitors form all over the world, but traditional sources include Europe during the winter months and Asia Pacific. Golf is booming across India, China, and Japan with players wishing to test their skills on some of the finest courses in the world.”

COME OUT AND PLAY As the only grass course in Sharjah, and the only floodlit course, Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club, also performed really well in 2012, boasting an increase in members and tournaments, as Ziad Al Sharabi, sales and marketing manager, Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club,

We also like to think that it gives the player a sense of relaxation, with quiet and peaceful surroundings rather than many of those in the UAE that are set amongst the hustle and bustle of major city life stated, attributing the success to the introduction of two new competitions which, he said, were a huge success and will carry on for years to come.

The year ahead looks bright for golf tourism to the emirate, as well as to the country as a whole, Al Sharabi indicated, further commenting, “Golf tourism has always been in Europe, the US, and other countries, but we have seen that in the UAE, it has started in the past few years especially that we have over 15 courses in such a small space and they can all be reached fairly easily; they are all five-star properties and very attractive for people to want to come and play here.”  FEBRUARY 2013

WHO'S MOVED

LAURENT BRANOVER Laurent Branover has been named general manager of Palais Namaskar Marrakech, Morocco, member of the Oetker Collection.

Prior to joining the Oetker Collection, Branover worked as hotel manager at the award-winning Raffles Singapore. His career has allowed him to gain extensive international experience with luxury hotels, having previously also worked at Hotel Byblos Courchevel, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, and Shangri-La Singapore, as well

as Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo.

Branover succeeds Frédéric Picard who becomes the general manager of the upcoming L’Apogée Courchevel in France.

Prior to joining the Oetker Collection, Branover worked as hotel manager at the award-winning Raffles Singapore

JEAN-PIERRE MAINARDI Jean-Pierre Mainardi has been appointed general manager of Conrad Cairo.

A Hilton Worldwide veteran, Mainardi’s career in the industry has taken him across the world, from the US to Thailand and China, as well as Europe, including UK, France, and Belgium, as well as the Middle East and Egypt, where he earlier served as the general manager of Nile Hilton Hotel.

Mainardi now returns to the Egyp-

FEBRUARY 2013

tian capital from Lebanon, where he led both Hilton Beirut Habtoor Grand and Hilton Beirut Metropolitan Palace, bringing with him a career which has covered various sectors and many different markets, thus helping him to gain in-depth knowledge of the industry which will prove valuable to Conrad Cairo.

He has been tasked with managing all hotel departmental operations as well as enhancing the presence and profile of the property.

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STEFAN VAN DER KRUYF Stefan van der Kruyf has joined the team of the soon-to-open Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi as director of sales and marketing.

Van der Kruyf has been working in the hospitality sector for over three decades, serving some of the most renowned five-star hotel companies across the world.

He started his career at InterContinental Frankfurt in 1982 and has also worked in senior capacities with Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, Hilton

Worldwide, Marriott International, and Sheraton Hotels & Resorts.

Most recently, he was the director of sales and marketing at Banyan Tree Al Wadi in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, where he was responsible for the opening of the desert and beach resort.

In his new role, he will spearhead the sales and marketing functions for the launch phase of Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, and he aims to leverage the company's dynamic business model.

MARIO SCOTTO Mario Scotto has been named general manager at Mafraq Hotel, Abu Dhabi.

Scotto originally joined the team in October 2012, and has since overseen the operational side of the hotel.

Prior to joining Mafraq Hotel, he held the position of group general manager at Safeer Hotel & Tourism Company in Muscat, Oman, as well as at City Seasons Group of Hotels and Flora Group Hotels in the UAE.

His 36 years of experience in the hospitality industry in Europe and the Middle East coupled with his specialisation in start-up hotel projects will be valuable assets for the recently re-launched property.

Scotto originally joined the team in October 2012, and has since overseen the operational side of the hotel

travel talk is your space

22

TRAVEL TALK JONATHAN WIGLEY

INGE HUIJBRECHTS

CEO, Absolute Hotels Services.

Director of responsible business, The Rezidor Hotel Group.

“We share the global desire of sustainable and responsible tourism throughout all our brands. This starts with the design and planning stages of our properties in terms of materials and systems specified. Naturally, on an operation platform, we directly, and with our guests, have resource conversation programmes relating to frequency of laundry processing and electricity consumption, as well as supporting recycling and the purchase of recycled products. We are always looking to evolve and increase our existing programmes.”

GLENN DE SOUZA Vice president, international operations, Asia and Middle East, Best Western International (BWI).

“At BWI we are very serious about sustainable tourism practices. Our hotels across the world take part in energy reduction schemes, including requesting guests to reuse their towels and bed linen, and to save water. While these may seem like small measures, when you multiply it by 4,100 hotels worldwide, the energy and water savings are hugely significant. We also try to educate our staff to save electricity and water, and install energy-saving lights wherever possible at our hotels. […] We annually set up activities that give back to the community and nature […].”

“Engagement in responsible business and our Think Planet! initiative is a perfect expression of our company’s Yes I Can! service philosophy and our Z-factor company value. As one of the fastest growing hotel companies in the industry, [...] we have a responsibility to future generations to combat climate change and to make sure the amazing places on our planet are preserved. Generally, we also see an increased interest and demand from clients, mainly corporate, to reduce the carbon footprint of their travel and learn about what the hotels are doing for the environment and the community.”

OMER KADDOURI Chief operating officer, Rotana.

“As we move forward, [...] sustainability will be our watchword. [...] We have begun introducing “green standards” into our minimum brand specifications that will see energy management technology deployed across all new properties with existing properties following closely behind. Furthermore, we have planned many initiatives as part of our commitment to corporate social responsibility. Whether environmental, educational, social, or charitable, these initiatives will be companywide and on property level.

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, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel FEBRUARY 2013

RENDEZVOUS

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Q & A with Perry Flint The International Air Transport Association (IATA) defines sustainable development as a ‘balancing act’, and here Perry Flint, head of corporate communications, the Americas, IATA, explains how the industry can balance its social, economic, and environmental objectives.

Travel Trade Monthly: What makes sustainability a watchword in the aviation industry?

Perry Flint: Aviation connects the planet, linking producers with markets, bringing people together, and facilitating greater understanding and awareness among different cultures. Aviation also makes possible the development of international supply chains that have an enormous impact on local living conditions in many lesser developed regions of the world.

For example, [thousands of ] small-scale producers and larger farms in Africa are supported by fresh fruit and vegetable exports to the UK. As a result, as many as 1-1.5 million livelihoods may depend on the supply chain linking small farmers in Africa to consumers in the UK. IATA works closely with airlines and other aviation stakeholders to improve the security and efficiency of global trade through programmes such as e-freight and secure freight. The organisation also works to lower barriers to the movement of people and goods across borders, while respecting the importance of secure borders. IATA is also a member Air Transport Action Group.

Turning to the environment, IATA’s goals are an average improvement in fuel efficiency of 1.5 percent per year to 2020; [imposing] a cap on net aviation CO2 emissions from 2020 with carbon-neutral growth; and reducing net CO2 emissions by 50 percent by 2050 compared to 2005.

Travel Trade Monthly: How can IATA lead the way to a more sustainable future?

Perry Flint: IATA works closely with airlines, air navigation service providers, airports, and other stakeholders to help reduce air and ground delays that result in unnecessary fuel burn and CO2 emissions. IATA’s work with stakeholders has contributed to savings of 37.3 million tonnes of CO2 since 2004. IATA ‘green teams’ have worked with airlines to improve efficiency, contributing to savings of 22.5 million tonnes of CO2 since 2005, with a further 18.8 million tonnes of CO2 savings identified.

Another example; IATA has produced best practice guidelines on designing and implementing carbon offset programmes for airline passengers and has created an industry-wide carbon offset programme.

Finally, the IATA Technology Roadmap, which

FEBRUARY 2013

was elaborated with the German Aerospace Centre and the Georgia Institute of Technology with more than 20 stakeholder partners contributing, gives an overview of current and future technologies that can reduce the carbon footprint of aviation.

passengers, the airport checkpoint process is a timeconsuming, overly-intrusive, and even intimidating exercise. According to our Passenger Survey, queuing time is already the most frequent gripe with security. To address this issue, while at the same time improving the efficiency of the security process, IATA

Perry Flint Head of corporate communications, the Americas, International Air Transport Association.

Governments need to recognise that aviation is a catalyst for economic growth

Travel Trade Monthly: Today, aviation is a vital part of the world economy. How can the industry increase its contribution to the growth of international trade, tourism, and investment?

Perry Flint: IATA supports the conclusions of the Aviation Benefits Beyond Borders, a report from the Air Transport Action Group. This report estimates that, including the catalytic effects of aviationrelated tourism, the industry supports 57 million jobs and generates USD2.2 trillion in global GDP. By 2030 these figures will rise to about 82 million jobs and USD6.9 trillion in GDP. What are the main obstacles hampering the growth of the industry? Safety is the top priority. Aviation must be safe to be sustainable. The good news is that 2011 was the safest in the history of aviation with an accident rate on Western-built jets of one every 2.7 million flights. This positive safety trend has continued through the first 11 months of 2012.

Security is another major priority. For too many

is working with airports, airlines, security regulators, and other stakeholders to develop a checkpoint of the future, with the long term aim of enabling passengers to walk through a security checkpoint without stopping, removing items of clothing and liquids, or taking computers out of bags.

Additionally, governments need to recognise that aviation is a catalyst for economic growth. In too many parts of the world, aviation and airline passengers are seen as an easy source for tax revenues. Such policies inhibit aviation’s ability to drive economic development and job creation.

Investment in infrastructure, both airports and airways, is vital to enable rising demand for air travel and international trade to be accommodated.

Aviation stakeholders must all work together to ensure aviation environmental targets are achieved. Success will need the support of governments in areas such as infrastructure efficiency and biofuels. It also means facilitating a global agreement through the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) on the introduction of MarketBased Measures (MBM) for aviation. […] A major event is this year’s ICAO assembly, where the issue of MBMs will be addressed. It is vital that states at ICAO arrive at a workable, fair solution for implementing a global MBM framework.

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NEWS & EVENTS

Second UNWTO Forum Hosted

by ATM Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2013 is planning to host a World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) forum on May 7, for the second year running, under the theme Aviation and Tourism Policies: Balancing the Benefits.

Following on from what turned out to be quite a successful discussion at 2012’s World Travel Market UNWTO forum, which focused on the topics of visa facilitation and air transport policies as key drivers for tourism co-operation and sector growth, this event is expected to bring together regional airlines, tourism leaders, and UNWTO officials to discuss the role of the aviation industry in driving Middle East tourism sector growth and the regional influence on its tourism strategies and policy.

Mark Walsh, portfolio director, Reed Travel Exhibitions, organiser of Arabian Travel Market, observed that the forum is particularly relevant and timely as the Middle East is set to handle 400 million air travellers by 2020, as a number of new state-of-the-art airports come on line and major carriers expand their route networks, according to International Air Transport Association reports.

“Regional aviation sector growth forecasts remain positive through to 2020, buoyed by up to USD90 billion worth of investment into infrastructure expansion in key gateway destinations,” he explained.

EVENTS

ITB Berlin Reveals Value for Money Counts For customers booking flights, value for money matters most when it comes to choosing a particular airline; this was the answer given by 70 percent of the CEO management panel of ITB Berlin, in a survey of exhibitors and business partners carried out by the market research company Trendscope alongside ITB Berlin.

The report also showed that for 63 percent of those who polled, the second most important factors, when choosing an airline, were the departure airport and choice of flight times.

Meanwhile, 37 percent of ITB Berlin’s respondents said they only booked flights with a certain airline and 24 percent claimed that it is important for the carrier to operate modern aircraft.

In addition, nine percent preferred to book flights with their national airline, while only four percent were willing to forfeit value for money.

The advantages of a frequent flyer programme were also among the reasons for choosing a particular airline, according to 42 percent of the respondents.

When asked which continents and regions operated the world’s best airlines, a clear trend, which also reflects global market developments, was revealed, as the majority (35 percent) voted for Asia, while Arab countries came in second (33 percent), followed by Europe (25 percent).

Sponsored by

Business Travel Show London, UK, February 5 – 6, 2013 (www.businesstravelshow.com) One of Europe’s main exhibition and conference for corporate travel buyers, managers, and bookers to source, learn, and network.

The Gulf Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM) Abu Dhabi, UAE, March 25 – 27, 2013 (www.gibtm.com) A leading event for the meetings, incentives, and business travel industry in the GCC region, which can truly unlock all participants’ business potential.

ITB Berlin Berlin, Germany, March 6 – 10, 2013 (www.itb-berlin.de) A business-to-business platform for trade visitors which provides the possibility to discover the whole world within a few hours.

World Travel Market (WTM) Latin America São Paulo, Brazil, April 23 – 25, 2013 (www.wtmlatinamerica.com) The leading global event for the region’s travel industry, which brings the world to Latin America and promotes Latin America to the world.

MITT Moscow Moscow, Russia, March 20 – 23, 2013 (www.mitt.ru) Russia’s leading and largest travel exhibition with over 3,000 participating companies and 197 destinations, a key meeting place for industry professionals.

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai, UAE, May 6 – 9, 2013 (www.arabiantravelmarket.com) The travel and tourism event unlocking business potential within the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals.

FEBRUARY 2013