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Hotel PiPeline Luxury hotels are still dominating the development pipeline in the Middle East and Africa, with 24.3 percent of current projects falling into this category, according to STR Global's Construction Pipeline Report.
Marriott restructure
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The orderbook for 2009’s Dubai Airshow exceeded USD10 billion on November 18, with Airbus alone posting show specific receipts of USD5.3billion. Travel Trade Weekly brings you a collection of news highlights from the event.
Marriott International is decentralising its international operations in a bid to become a more global operation. It has also launched a revamped version of its website to boost online bookings.
4 In This Issue
Market Update Hotel Pipeline Accommodation News Dubai Airshow International News Cruising and Airlines Travel Tips Travel Talk Who’s Moved Rendezvous News & Events NOVEMBER 21, 2009 ISSUE 2
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DUBAI
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TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY Deputy Editor Laura Warne Journalist Louis Dillon Savage Design & Layout Elina Pericleous Sales & Marketing Joy Hadjivarnava Jane Davidson Directors Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi Headquarters P.O. Box 25255 Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +35722820888 Fax: +35722318958 Website www.traveltradeweekly.travel Emails info@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel
Welcome to the latest weekly e-book issue of Travel Trade Weekly – your must-have source for the latest news and information for the Middle East and North Africa. The unique combination of our weekly news cycle and a widespread readership allow us to offer the latest news and direct exposure to tourism professionals within MENA and beyond. Travel Trade Weekly is made up of a team of experts with a wealth of experience in the industry; we’re dedicated to bringing you exclusive news every week, ensuring you are constantly up to date with the latest industry developments. Travel Trade Weekly is published in two convenient forms; a monthly hard copy edition and a weekly online e-book, published and distributed every Saturday morning. The monthly hard copy offers destination reports, feature articles, analysis of tourism trends and information to help you improve your business and increase your industry knowledge. It is distributed to travel trade professionals in Egypt, Libya, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Cyprus, Greece, Bahrain, Jordan, Syria, Kuwait, Qatar, Tunisia, Morocco, Iran, Yemen, Palestine, Algeria and Iraq. The weekly e-book is published and distributed every Saturday morning to travel agents and tour operators in Europe, and travel trade professionals in the Middle East and North Africa. Our choice to deliver the majority of our output electronically reflects our desire to bring you the latest news, as well as our commitment to responsible and sustainable business practices. Once more, welcome, and please enjoy the first e-book issue of Travel Trade Weekly!
Laura Warne Deputy Editor
low cost, High turnover: economy airlines record solid Profits for 2009
MENA Exchange Rates Accurate as of 12/11/2009 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar COUNTRY UAE (AED) Egypt (EGP) Saudi Arabia (SAR) Lebanon (LBP) Bahrain (BHD) Jordan ( JOD) Syria (SYP) Kuwait (KWD) Qatar (QAR) Oman (OMR) Tunisia (TND) Morocco (MAD) Iran (IRR) Yemen (YER) Algeria (DZD) Libya (LID)
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CURRENCY Dirham Pound Riyal Pound Dinar Dinar Pound Dinar Riyal Rial Dinar Dirham Riyal Rial Dinar Dinar
1USD= 3.67 5.45 3.75 1501 0.37 0.7 46 0.28 3.64 0.38 1.28 7.66 9970 205.5 72.32 1.2
Low cost carriers Air Arabia and easyJet both showed positive results for the year to September 30, despite profit decreases compared to 2008. Air Arabia announced a net profit of AED337 million (USD91.7 million) for the first three quarters of 2009. The airline registered a turnover of AED1.469 billion (USD399.9 million) in 2009 to September, which was two percent lower than the AED1.495 billion (USD407 million) recorded during the same period in 2008. Passenger numbers increased by 14 percent compared to 2008, hitting 2.96 million, and the average seat load factor was 79 percent. However, Air Arabia’s net profits for the three months ending September 30 were down nine percent compared to 2008. The airline said passenger traffic in the third quarter of 2009 was impacted by Ramadan, concerns related to the H1N1 virus and the continuing impact of the global financial downturn. UK-based easyJet bucked European trends
with its profit results, according to CEO Andy Harrison. The airline recorded a 50.4 percent drop in recorded profits before tax for the full year to September 30, but still showed strong results overall. Total revenue per seat was up 10.9 percent on the previous year, and passenger numbers increased 3.4 percent to 45.2 million. Reported profit before tax was GBP54.7 million (USD91.8 million), compared to GBP110.2 million (USD185 million) in 2008. Operating costs per seat, excluding fuel and currency movement, increased by 3.9 percent for the full year. Total underlying cost per seat, including fuel and currency movement, was up by 6.2 percent. Cost reduction initiatives for the airline included exiting 19 aircraft from the fleet and a renegotiation of maintenance agreements with SRT that was expected to deliver savings of GBP175 million (USD293.8 million) over the 11-year life of the contract. NOVEMBER 21, 2009
Luxury Dominates Middle East and Africa Hotel Development Pipeline
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uxury hotels are still dominating the development pipeline in the Middle East and Africa, with 24.3 percent of current projects falling into this category, according to the October 2009 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report. The report, which was released on November 18, shows 437 hotels comprising 120,682 rooms currently in the Middle East and Africa pipeline. The UAE reported the largest number of rooms in construction (30,039 rooms), with Saudi Arabia in second place after reporting 7,406 rooms in construction and 13,469 rooms in the total active pipeline. Morocco and Qatar also showed notable development, with 6,640 rooms and 5,408 rooms respectively. Luxury, unaffiliated and upscale developments accounted for a combined 70 percent of the total active pipeline.
STR Global Middle East/Africa Pipeline October 2009 (number of rooms): Chain Scale Existing Supply In Construction Total Active Pipeline* Luxury 49,444 19,817 29,332 Upper Upscale 73,419 17,241 22,043 Upscale 76,456 17,474 25,642 Midscale w/ F&B 62,792 3,979 7,540 Midscale w/o F&B 1,796 1,035 1,558 Economy 12,772 2,313 5,295 Unaffiliated 357,547 12,271 29,272 Total 634,226 74,130 120,682 * Includes those projects in the In Construction, Final Planning and Planning phases.
Global airline capacity increases; Middle east and africa remain strong OAG Aviation reported positive growth for global airline capacity in November, compared to figures from the same month in 2008. The world’s airlines reported a total of 285.4 million seats in November, indicating a rise of three percent. Global frequencies are also up, increasing by one percent compared to November 2008, with a total of 2.3 million flights in November 2009. The Middle East continued its upward trend, with flights and capacity to and from the region increasing by nine and 10 percent respectively, representing a frequency of 45,981 and seat capacity of 9.9 NOVEMBER 21, 2009
million. Flights and capacity within the region showed an even greater increase, with regional flights up 19 percent and seat capacity up 23 percent. Africa also showed solid growth, with flights to and from Africa increasing by 11 percent, with a 13 percent rise in capacity. Europe reported small increases, however the US market continued to slide, with decreases in flights and capacity both domestically and internationally. Frequency and capacity in the low cost sector were both up by eight percent worldwide, with 424,458 flights and 62.2 million seats. 3
accoMMoDation neWs
Marriot Restructures, Renovates Online Presence Marriot.com has been overhauled, in a bid by the company to improve ease of use and boost online traffic.
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hanges include a new look interface and streamlined access to guest reward accounts. Shafiq Khan, senior vice president of ecommerce for the brand emphasised the importance of Marriot.com to the chain. “[The site] receives more than 12 million visits each month and more than 75 percent of our guests say they use our website when planning or booking their hotel stays,” he said. “Today customers make 2,000 times more bookings in an hour on Marriott.com than they did in 1999, making it our company’s fastest growing booking channel.” Marriott Corporate Restructure Marriott International is decentralising its international operations in a bid to become a more global operation. The
company has divided its operations into four regional centres around the world: Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Asia. Each regional base will have its own president and resources to operate independently. The formerly independent Ritz-Carlton brand will also be brought into the new corporate structure.
rezidor’s african Development Honoured Rezidor Hotel Group has been recognised at the Hospitality Investment Conference Africa (HICA) for its ambitious business development across Africa. Andrew McLachlan, Rezidor’s vice president of business development for Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands, was celebrated for his leadership and contribution to hospitality investment on the continent. McLachlan tripled Rezidor’s African portfolio between January 2007 and March 2009, taking the company from eight hotels in five African countries to 21 hotels now open or under development across 13 countries. He was awarded a Mover and Shaker prize for his work. The new properties expanded the company’s presence into Angola, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Nigeria, Mozambique, Zambia and South Africa. 4
Further details, including potential job losses, have yet to be announced by Marriott International, although company representatives have said that changes to the Ritz-Carlton brand will be focused on back of house operations and will not be noticeable to guests. The reorganisation is expected to be completed by early 2011.
accor to Decide on split By end of Year Accor has declared an ongoing review of its plans to demerge the two segments of its business. The company currently operates its service and hotel arms in tandem, but on November 16 the board of directors met to review the potential benefits of splitting the group. Initial feasibility reports were tendered to the board, covering legal, social and financial elements. The board reported progress on development plans for the two proposed sections and announced that they would reach a final decision by the end of the year. NOVEMBER 21, 2009
Dubai Airshow Running from November 15-19, the Dubai Airshow is one of the largest aerospace exhibitions in the world, bringing exhibitors and buyers from across the globe. The orderbook for 2009’s show exceeded USD10 billion on November 18, with Airbus alone posting show specific receipts of USD5.3billion. Travel Trade Weekly brings you a collection of highlights from the event.
etihad outlines Future investment Plans Etihad Airways has revealed a USD750 million spending plan detailing investment in its fleet, personnel and inflight service, as well as its planning and resourcing systems. The airline also made a number of other announcements, including: retrofitting and maintenance of the fleet’s aircraft by Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies; new inflight entertainment systems by Panasonic; an overhaul of airline cabins, including installation by Lufthansa Technik of the new first class suite concept; A USD200 million contract with International Aero Engines to overhaul fourteen aircraft; and a USD250 million Hareb al-Muhairy, head of corporate communications, etihad airways; James Hogan, ceo, component outsourcing deal with SR Technics. etihad airways; and Werner rothenbaecher, executive vice president, technical, etihad airways. Etihad, which recently won World’s Leading Airline First Class at the World Travel Awards, announced that investment in its premium cabins had been instrumental Oman Air has purchased five Embraer 175-E jets. in the airline’s growth. James Hogan, CEO of the airline said that the new first The newly ratified deal also includes purchase rights for another five class suites would help the airline stand out in the aircraft, with the first delivery scheduled for the first quarter of 2011. premium travel market.Each private suite is accessed by Ahmed Abdul Nabhi Macki, chairman of Oman Air, said that the jets its own sliding door and includes a personal wardrobe would be used to increase frequencies and develop new routes. and mini bar, as well as 23 inch wide-screen LCD screen The carrier has also announced a strategic alliance with Lufthansa which features more than 600 hours of on demand Technik, involving an agreement to maintain its A330 and 737 NG Fleets and a new hangar at Muscat International Airport. entertainment. The first class cabin also features a large changing room The new hangar, fully operational in 2012, will accommodate two wide with a full length mirror, wash basin and leather fold- body aircraft alongside two narrow body aircraft and provide workspace for more than 300 technicians. down seat.
oman air expands Fleet
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NOVEMBER 21, 2009
care by air Abu Dhabi Airports Authority, Etihad and Maximus Air Cargo have launched a new humanitarian initiative. The Care by Air concept will see the companies provide cargo services to humanitarian organisations at cost price. According to the Care by Air founders, an average of 30 percent of total air cargo capacity is flown empty; this translates to four million tonnes of empty space per week. Care by Air is intended to allow humanitarian organisations to utilise the unused room to transport aid packages to struggling regions. According to a statement issued by the group, if just 0.0003 percent of surplus capacity were to be used in such a way, enough food could be transported to feed five million people for a day. UAE Red Crescent and the UN World Food Programme have already pledged support for the initiative.
Flydubai announces Bahrain Flights, long term logistics Pair up Flydubai has announced its second GCC destination, adding twice-daily flights to Bahrain. Launched six months ago, the Dubai-based carrier’s network already includes flights to Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, Egypt, Djibouti, Qatar, and Sudan. The new flights between Dubai and Bahrain are intended to capitalise on Bahrain’s role as a gateway for Saudi Arabia’s oil and gas industry, according to the airline. Flights to Bahrain will commence in December. Flydubai also added flights to Azerbaijan from November 20. Flydubai has also announced a long term logistics partnership with Danzas AEI Emirates. The agreement will see Danzas handle the entirety of the airline’s logistical requirements. NOVEMBER 21, 2009
sheikh Mohammad Bin rashid, ruler of Dubai, united arab emirates, and sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed, ruler of abu Dhabi, united arab emirates, cut the ribbon to officially open the Dubai airshow
senegal launches new airline, emirates Helps The Government of Senegal and Emirates Airline will collaborate on launching Senegal’s new national carrier. The recently announced Senegal Airlines will replace former national flag carrier, Air Senegal International, which folded in January under the weight of accumulated losses. According to Karim Wade, from Senegal’s Ministry for International Cooperation, the country is seeking to strengthen and expand its aviation industry. Though represented by the Senegalese government at the Dubai Airshow, majority equity in the new airline will be held by the Senegalese private sector. Wade announced a plan to build a new airport outside the nation’s capital Dakar and sought the aid of Emirates Airline and Group in both launching and maintaining the new airline. “The new, technologically advanced airport combined with a brand new, modern airline will make Senegal a major aviation force in Africa as well as internationally,” said Wade. The new airport is to incorporate a special economic free zone developed by the UAE based Jebel Ali Free Zone, according to Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Emirates Group CEO. Emirates agreed to assist the Senegalese carrier in the start up and post launch phases. “Emirates has a strategic interest in Africa and currently operates to 17 points within the continent. The Senegalese government approached us to support the start up of their new carrier and participate in its future and we are delighted to add value to the aviation infrastructure of Senegal,” explained Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum. The Senegalese government, representing the new airline, also made arrangements with Airbus for the future purchase of four medium range a320 and two long range a330 airliners.
airbus Dominates airshow receipts During the 2009 Dubai Airshow, Airbus received purchase commitments for 33 aircraft, with a total value of more than USD5.3 billion. These commitments included firm orders for 15 aircraft worth more than USD3.6 billion, plus memorandum of understanding agreements for a further 18 aircraft totalling around USD1.7 billion. 7
international neWs
End of Year Openings Flag International Expansion for Westin Despite anticipating an uncertain year ahead, Starwood will open six new Westin hotels in the last six weeks of 2009.
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ccording to a statement by Starwood, the openings reflect the brand’s focus on international expansion. The Westin’s new locations will include: the Westin Hyderabad Mindspace and the Westin Mumbai Garden City in India; the Westin Pune Koregaon Park and the Westin Tianjin in China; as well as the Westin Washington Dulles Airport and the Westin Lake Mary in the US. The openings reflect a long term approach by Starwood, which recently released a statement anticipating a slow 2010. In Starwood’s predictions for 2010, the firm highlighted a change in booking
practices. Though group bookings for 2011 have already picked up, the rate of booking in 2010 has flagged, according to the company. However, Starwood also reported that the low booking rate was complicated by a shrinking booking window. This shortened window made late breaking business particularly important in 2010, but led to uncertainty as to the likely outcomes of the coming financial year. Simon Turner, president of global development for Starwood Hotels and Resorts said that the company was pursuing a diverse growth plan and that
Westin brand was poised for long term success in both established and emerging destinations around the world. Nancy London, vice president of Westin Hotels, signposted a shift towards the global market. “Today, 111 of our 163 existing hotels are in North America. But looking ahead, we will see a seismic shift in this number with 70 percent of the pipeline located outside the United States in markets throughout Asia and the Middle East,” she said. The Westin has 12 hotels planned to open in 2010, spanning Canada, China, Greece, Japan, India, Mexico and the United States.
team effort For 2012 olympic strategy Tourist boards and associations have come together to develop a strategy that will encourage visits to the UK and London during the 2012 Olympic Games and beyond. Visit Britain, Visit London, UKinbound and the European Tour Operators Association (ETOA) have joined forces to promote the destination, after ETOA released a report showing the negative tourism impact of previous Olympic Games. According to ETOA, London has several advantages over previous Olympic hosts; namely the accessibility of the country to the rest of the world, its long-established tourism industry, a plentiful supply of accommodation and a strong cultural offer. Alex Kyriakidis of Deloitte also considered London’s Olympics to be different to previous Games. “Lessons have been learned from the past; London’s bid has been focused around securing a working legacy from the Games,” he said. Visit Britain and Visit London have already established a fair pricing and practice charter to encourage fair pricing during the Olympics. The charter has already been signed by 300 organisations. 8
Patrick Richards, chairperson of the ETOA, explained the importance of operating a competitive market during the event. “Perceptions about the accessibility and costs of visiting host cities and nations during the year of major events do not always match the reality and we need a strategy in place to address this,” said Richards. Ken Kelling, director of communications for Visit London, added that foresight was also important. “Now’s the right time to be getting the message out as the travel trade starts to think about brochuring for the next few years,” said Kelling. NOVEMBER 21, 2009
cruisinG & air tRAVel
The Skies Open, IATA Presides On November 16, governments representing 60 percent of global aviation committed to pursuing policies of industry deregulation.
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ollowing a spate of recent open skies agreements, the UAE joined Panama, Singapore, Chile, US, Malaysia, and Switzerland in signing an IATA document that outlined principles for the signatories to follow in liberalising their aviation laws. International air traffic is governed by a 65 year old system of bilateral agreements between national governments; a system that restricts commercial aviation in ways that are not faced by any other industry, according to IATA. “Airlines made global business possible, but they remain a highly fragmented industry unable to cover their cost of capital,” said Giovanni Bisignani, CEO of IATA.
Signatories committed to deregulating market access and relaxing restrictions on airlines operating within the countries, including lifting pricing limitations. Signatory states also agreed to consider the possibility of waiving ownership restrictions and to expedite the further opening of markets in future bilateral negotiations. A study commissioned by IATA examined the potential impact of liberalisation across 12 selected economies (Australia, Brazil, Chile, India, Mauritius, Morocco, Peru, Singapore, Turkey, the UAE, Uruguay and Vietnam). The results predicted that a liberalisation of both market access and airline ownership restrictions would contribute 2.4 million jobs
across the group of nations, contribute USD67.6 million to GDP and see a total reduction of fares by 38 percent. Bisignani congratulated the participating nations and said that the agreement was a sign of a more liberal aviation market in the future. “[This]signing is the beginning of a process of change. Our shared task now is to bring even more countries on board,” he said.
Wataniya airways spreads its Wings Kuwait’s fledgling premium service airline, Wataniya Airways, has increased its customer service offering with a new website. The new site offers flight information as well as online booking and check-in facilities. Mai Alowayesh, online marketing manager for Wataniya, said the upgraded website was necessary to cater to the airline’s sophisticated guests, giving them control over services and information. Wataniya Airways, which launched in January, is hoping to gain valuable feedback from the new website by welcoming suggestions and requests. The airline currently flies to Amman, Bahrain, Beirut, Cairo, Damascus, Dubai, Sharm El Sheikh and Jeddah.
Dubai Welcomes First arrivals for Winter cruising season Dubai saw a positive start to the winter cruising season, with three cruise ships docking in Dubai during the first week of November, bringing 5076 tourists. Tahitian Princess, operated by Princess Cruises; Ocean Village Two, operated by P&O Cruises; and Legend of the Seas, operatred by Royal Caribbean International, arrived from Muscat and NOVEMBER 21, 2009
Egypt before departing for India. According to the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), tourists originated from Germany, Canada, UK, US and Australia. DTCM capitalised on the arrivals by hosting welcome ceremonies and tourist information counters inside the terminal; Big Bus and Seawings sold tours directly
to disembarking passengers. Dubai is expected to host 120 cruise ships in 2010, with more than 325,000 passengers. This is an increase on 2009 figures, which are expected to be 100 cruise calls and 250,000 tourists. The new Dubai Cruise Terminal is scheduled to become operational in January 2010. 9
New Consortium for Middle East Aerospace Industry
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new consortium for the aerospace industry in the Middle East plans to boost opportunities for local companies by introducing new networking events and increasing collaboration between companies. The Middle East Aerospace Consortium (MEAC) was launched on November 16, with membership open to airports, airlines, support services and regulatory
authorities. John Ellis, CEO of MEAC, said benefits would include bespoke business development plans, access to the latest products and services, and business introductions. “My vision is for the Middle East Aerospace Consortium to become recognised in the Middle East and worldwide as the leading and largest regional aerospace consortium,” said Ellis. “With an estimated eight percent share of worldwide civil aircraft deliveries in 2009 alone, there is no doubt that the Middle East aviation industry is bucking the economic trend and powering to the top of the world’s league table of global aerospace hubs.” Ellis added that air traffic in the Middle East was expected to grow faster than any other region in the world over the next decade. He cited maintenance, repair and
overhaul developments that included new facilities at Dubai World Central; Abu Dhabi; and the new USD30 million maintenance facility at King Khalid Airport, Saudi Arabia. “Approximately USD25 billion is to be spent in the region’s aviation sector on airport infrastructure projects, with countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE leading the way,” said Ellis. MEAC plans to boost business for members with several initiatives, including: MEAC networking events; tender alerts; marketing and PR assistance; discounts on aerospace industry events and exhibitions; access to funding and investment; training courses; new business introductions; and trade mission assistance. The consortium is supported by an advisory board of international aerospace industry specialists operating throughout the Middle East.
Jazeera offers end of Year incentives to travel agents Kuwait’s Jazeera Airways has proposed a new partnership between the airline and travel agents, with incentives launched for agents booking with Jazeera. According to the airline, travel agents will be offered a discount at source on all Jazeera flights booked between now and the end of the year. The airline would not comment on the size of the discount. Stefan Pichler, CEO of Jazeera Airways acknowledged the role travel agents had
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played in the growth of the airline. “Jazeera has been growing very fast and successfully over the last four years and now we have to make sure that we also develop our partnerships with those that helped us to get here,” said Pichler. “In recognition of their continued support,
we have proposed this substantial incentive for our travel agent partners, which it is hoped will support the growth of their businesses, while ensuring more guests book with Jazeera.” Jazeera Airways currently flies to the Middle East, North Africa, Iran and India.
NOVEMBER 21, 2009
Four Seasons Middle East Expansion
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eneral managers from Four Seasons properties in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Jordan, Qatar, Syria and Lebanon came together on November 19 to discuss the company’s global pipeline. The soon to be opened Four Seasons Hotel Beirut will be the company’s ninth property in the Middle East. Four Seasons Hotel Marrakech will follow it in late 2010. Sorya Gaulin, director of global corporate PR for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts said the Middle East would continue to be a focus going into 2011, with a new development planned in Bahrain. “Asia and the Middle East present a great opportunity for expansion for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts both regionally and internationally,” said Gaulin. “As demand for business travel increases and the needs of the leisure guests evolve towards more refined experiences, higher quality of service and more personalised offerings, Four Seasons is well positioned to fulfill these needs worldwide.” Globally, Four Seasons also has upcoming properties planned in China, Vietnam, Canada, Russia, Italy, Austria and the US.
NOVEMBER 21, 2009
sharjah sees Growth Sharjah’s tourism sector has grown by four percent since January, while hotel occupancy has remained stable compared to the same period last year. Sultan Bin Ahmed al Qasimi, chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCDTA) said he expected tourism in Sharjah to continue to grow rapidly. According to SCDTA, tourism remains one of Sharjah’s most active industries and one of the main contributors to the emirate’s gross domestic product. Qasimi stated that anticipated growth would make up for losses experienced during the global depression and that despite the financial situation, Sharjah would continue to pursue tourism projects. SCDTA has declared its intention to announce a new project in the first quarter of 2010.
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How to Make the Most of Business Travel Kuwait is a business market first and foremost; its travel sector focuses on servicing the flock of foreign investors, development contractors and executives that ply the country’s sky on a relentless schedule of fly-in-flyout business. Dori Saleh, executive general manager of Mövenpick Kuwait, shares his insights on attracting stay over business.
Business essentials
Brand recognition
safety First
“First of all, you need to make sure you are providing the business essentials; things like high speed internet, faxes, telephones and the like,” said Saleh. “After that, you need to add value; for instance, my hotel was the first in Kuwait to provide free internet access in every room of the hotel.”
“Being part of an international chain helps by providing familiarity and raising the profile of the property, which is important for large companies booking for groups of people,” Saleh said.
Sharing a border with Iraq makes Kuwait a particularly security conscious market, according to Saleh, but he emphasised that security is a concern for all business travellers. “All international business have security concerns these days, particularly when booking for groups; they will often have representatives who will assess and compare the security of hotels before choosing where to book. “It is important to strike a balance between making your guest feel comfortable through your security measures and continuing to provide the relaxing hotel atmosphere.”
Feed Their interest When it comes to retaining business, Saleh said nothing compares to providing an interesting dining experience. “Make sure you provide a culinary experience that lets your guest experience something new every day.”
Think locally, act Globally Firas Al-Bashir, general manager of the Regency Palace Hotel in Amman, advises travel professionals to help themselves by looking at the big picture. He also offers his tips on marketing to the Gulf tourism market: “Tourism is something everyone has to work on and develop; not just governments and officials, but the individual as well,” said Al-Bashir. “They have to feel it; they have to help develop their country as a destination, not just their own business. “When it comes to marketing to Gulf travellers, the best thing is to concentrate on attracting the maximum number of families. Be service oriented and focus on facilitating family groups.” 12
NOVEMBER 21, 2009
selim el Zyr President, rotana
Vanessa cotton chairperson, reed travel exhibitions “Tourism in the Middle East has enjoyed an unprecedented boom in the previous three years. Hotels in the gulf countries had significant increase in occupancy and average room rates. Hotels in the Levant are rebounding despite the challenges, and the events that followed September 11 have encouraged regional tourism. With additional entertainment and leisure facilities being developed, it will only continue to grow. In an environment like this, you have to be lean and agile.”
In an environment like this, you have to be lean and agile
“AIBTM has come about following nearly two years of research. We have talked to all sectors of the industry who confirmed there was a real need for an event to take place in the US; for the industry to come together for best business and networking opportunities and best professional education… AIBTM is not just a replication of our other events; it is very much tailor-made, targeted at America and created to suit the needs of the American market.”
AIBTM is not just a replication of our other events
Pam Wilby General Manager, Grosvenor House Dubai “To stay ahead in today’s world, where competition abounds and guests have extremely high standards, the answer is service. People want to be made to feel special and that is why despite the challenging times we have faced, we continue to invest in service levels and standards to make sure our guests are able to enjoy their experience with us.”
People want to be made to feel special 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 NOVEMBER 21, 2009
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Patrick camelia Rezidor Hotel Group has appointed Patrick Camelia as general manager of the Radisson Blu Resort, Taba in Egypt. Camelia began his career in food and beverage, working in Morocco and Egypt with Starwood Hotels and Resorts. He joined Rezidor in 2008 as executive assistant manager of Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek.
craig smith Craig Smith has joined the pre-opening team at Mövenpick Hotel and Residence Laguna Tower Dubai as general manager of the new property. Smith previously worked as the assistant vice president of client operations for Dubai-based IFA Hotels and Resorts. He has also worked with Sheraton and Accor Hotels and Resorts.
corinna erken Raffles Dubai has appointed Corinna Erken as director of events, with the goal of implementing and maximising the hotel’s events and conference targets. Erken previously worked for a Dubaibased event agency, and has also worked at Atlantis Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Her specialties include a thorough knowledge of the regional MICE market and the Dubai hospitality industry. 14
sebastien noat Dubai’s new Media One Hotel has appointed Sebastien Noat as operations manager. Noat has previously worked for Shangri La Hotels Group in Dubai, Thailand, Malaysia and China. He also worked at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort, and with the Ritz-Carlton Hotels Group in the US Virgin Islands, San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Mahmoud Mokhtar Mahmoud Mokhtar has been promoted to vice president of operations with Hilton Worldwide, Egypt. The promotion follows Mokhtar’s successful 15 month stint as country manager, Egypt and 13 years of employment with the Hilton brand.
Thomas tapken Thomas Tapken has taken the reigns as group general manager for City Seasons Group. City Seasons Group has several hotels operating and under construction in Dubai, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and Muscat. Tapken was previously the regional general manager, Dubai for Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts. He has 25 years of experience with international hotel chains in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. NOVEMBER 21, 2009
Jordan Tourism Board discusses visa restrictions On November 16, the Jordan Tourism Board announced that visa requirements for Indian travellers had been relaxed. Completing the process of liberalisation that has already seen restrictions lifted on groups and tours, individual Indian travellers are no longer required to seek visa clearance before arriving in the country.
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here approval from the Minister of the Interior was previously required, Indian tourists will now be issued with automatic two week visitor visas. Travel Trade Weekly spoke to Fayiz Khoury, deputy managing director of the Jordan Tourism Board, about what this means for the future of tourism in the country.
Travel Trade Weekly: What can you say about the move to liberalise visas for incoming Indian travellers? Fayiz Khoury: We are approaching and working hard on penetrating new source markets, but have found that some important source markets have been difficult, due to visa restrictions. The most notable have been China and India, but both of those countries have been granted liberalisations. Visa restrictions are usually put in place because of security or labour issues, but it should be recognised that on the whole Jordan has an extremely liberal visa policy. Visas are liberal for all of Europe, North America, and all of South America, except one country.
On the whole, Jordan has an extremely liberal visa policy issue restrictions on the visas that it provides.
for seven months, with our office opening there in April.
Travel Trade Weekly: How important do you expect these new source Travel Trade Weekly: Are there any plans to liberalise visas for other Travel Trade Weekly: Why were visas markets to be? restricted for China and India? Fayiz Khoury: They are going to be countries? Fayiz Khoury: The policy was one huge. These are very important source Fayiz Khoury: Not for the time being.
adopted a long time ago. It was adopted because Jordan is a very small country, with a small economy and a fragile labour market. The policy was to maintain economic stability by limiting the transfer of labour from overseas. The decision also reflected Jordan’s prerogative as a sovereign power to NOVEMBER 21, 2009
markets, especially going into the future, and we have already started working within the markets of those countries. Right now we are part of a major exhibition in China and we will be opening a new tourism office there early next year. We have already been operating in India
The decision to open visas for China and India was a project we were working on for a long time. We put a proposal to the minister and they changed the laws. Visa issuance is something that needs to be studied very closely, and when we are considering it, we must look at all of the facts and make decisions accordingly. 15
six senses etihad
sharjah Water Festival set to Make a splash
Six Senses and Etihad have strengthened their partnership, opening two new spas in the airline’s premium departure lounges. The spas will be located at Etihad’s first and business class departure lounges in Abu Dhabi and Heathrow (London) airports. Access will be for Etihad first and business class passengers, and by invitation.
The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has launched the Etisalat - Sharjah Water Festival 2009, to be held from December 2-12. The event is part of phase two of SCTDA’s strategy to boost the emirate’s tourism identity. It will capitalise on the FI Powerboat World Championship - Sharjah Grand Prix, which is being held on December 10-11. The race is in its tenth year and attracts more than 50,000 fans every year. Powerboat competitors from 13 countries will be participating in the Sharjah Grand Prix at Khalid Lagoon. The Water Festival has a strong family focus, with other events including a daily carnival, with a special parade on December 2 (UAE national day); three daily Sesame Street performances at Al Majaz Park; a Mouj play area for children; and three daily high dive shows, also at Al Majaz Park. The official opening of the festival on December 2 will also feature a classical music performance by I Cameristi Triestini Orchestra.
Events The Big 5 Show Dubai, UAE, Nov 23-26 (www.thebig5exhibition.com) The 30th annual Middle East international building and construction exhibition. Luxury Travel Expo Las Vegas, USA, Dec 1-3 (www.luxurytravelexpowest.com) Exhibition for luxury travel professionals. EIBTM Barcelona, Spain, Dec 1-3 (www.eibtm.com) Global event for the meetings and incentive industry.
Nation Branding Seminar Dubai, UAE, Dec 10 (www.nationbrandingevents.com/nationbranding/middle-east) Advising governments on ways to better manage investment, tourism, trade and talent. Travel Turkey Izmir Izmir, Turkey, Dec 10-13 (www.travelturkey-expo.com) Travel Turkey Izmir Tourism Fair and Conference.
Middle East Exclusive 2010 Dubai, UAE, Feb 2-4 (www.middleeastexclusive.com) Luxury brand and travel retail exhibition.
Sportex Middle East Exhibition Dubai, UAE, Dec 6-8 (www.sportexmiddleeast.com) International event for the sports, fitness, health and leisure industries. International Luxury Travel Market Cannes, France, Dec 7-10 (www.iltm.net) Annual business-to-business event for the global luxury travel community.
SME Expo and Conference 2010 Dubai, UAE, Feb 2-4 (www.smeexpo.com) Exhibition and conference for small and medium enterprises. Gulfood Exhibition 2010 Dubai, UAE, Feb 21-24 (www.gulfood.com) Food and beverage exhibition.
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NOVEMBER 21, 2009