TAM May 2013

Exclusive ‘The Middle East is currently Banyan Tree’s fifth largest market. We are really proud of what we have achieved at our Ras Al Khaimah resorts, Banyan Tree Al Wadi and Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah, Beach.’

—Mr. Abid Butt CEO, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts

(See interview on page 14.)

May/June/July 2013

No.05

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2 OUR WORD

CONTENTS

Some quick facts and figures.

This year’s Arabian Travel Market opens on the backdrop of a 67-percent revenue growth forecast for the UAE tourism sector by 2016.

According to Alpen Capital’s October 2012 GCC Hospitality Industry Report, the UAE’s hospitality market is likely to reach US$7.5 billion by 2016, up from US$4.5 billion in 2011 as visitor demand gains traction and new hotel supply enhances the existing tourism product, ATM organizers said.

A recent Dubai Chamber study, supported by statistics published by Business Monitor International, puts the UAE tourism sector’s growth at 6.5 percent per annum between 2011-2021, with visitors from the Middle East, Europe and Asia Pacific being the key source markets. Employment growth prospects for the sector are also buoyant, with a forecast annual real growth rate of around 4.1 percent.

In other areas, tourist arrivals in the UAE are forecast to grow at a CAGR of 5.3 percent between 2012 and 2022, with hotel supply also expected to increase from the current 96,992 hotel rooms in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, to a total of 125,383 hotel rooms in 2016.

In November 2012, year-to-date occupancy of 80 percent was up 2 percent on 2011 in Dubai, according to Ernst & Young’s 2012 Middle East Hotel Benchmark Survey.

Quite an interesting ATM 2013 this will be.

EXCLUSIVES

02

personality profile 12

COVER STORY

13

ONE ON ONE

14

Trav Tech

22

flights plus

23

NUMBERS SPEAK Percentage of leisure travellers using mobile phones to search for travel information.

Percentage of business travellers using mobile phones to search for travel information.

8%

25% 18%

38%

Online travel sales worldwide in billions.

US$ 309

US$ 523

57%

US$ 340

40%

US$ 483 US$ 374 US$ 446

31%

56%

2009 2010 2011 2012 Source: Travel Daily News (Jan. 2013)

2009 2010 2011 2012 Source: Travel Daily News (Jan. 2013)

US$ 408

2010 2011 2012 2013

2014 2015 2016

Source: eMarketer (Nov. 2012)

INDUSTRY QUIZ By what percentage has THAI’s passenger traffic from Dubai to destinations such as Chiang Mai increased?

Which iconic Paris hotel has the Peninsula Hotel Group acquired?

Where in Dubai will Four Seasons Hotels open its first property in the city?

CLUE: All answers are in this edition of Travel Arabia News.

Email your answers to dass@kalimatgroup.com and win a prize

CONTACTS www.travel-arabia.com Publisher-CEO Hekmat el Zein

Address Travel Arabia Head Office Office G4, Building No.1 Phase One, P.O.Box 502408 Dubai Media City, UAE Tel +971 4 391 0410/1/2/3 Fax +971 4 391 6619 E-mail editor@travel-arabia.com Media House KGI

General Manager Shaza Sharaffdeen Editor Jojo Dass dass@kalimatgroup.com Photographer Maher Youssef Creative Manager Karen Haroon Designer Najeeb Hamza Sales & Marketing Manager Syed Muhammad Arif arif@kalimatgroup.com

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Sales & Marketing Executive Crisna De Guzman crisna@kalimatgroup.com Circulation Manager Ihab Abdallah Distributor Jashanmal National Co. LLC

Travel Arabia Lebanon Office Riad el solh 11072070 P.O.Box 11-1197, Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961 3 435 780 Fax +961 7 762 104

Travel Arabia disclaimer All text and layout remains the copyright of KGI unless stated otherwise. Travel Arabia is fully independent, and its views are not those of any company mentioned herein.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

All rights reserved. © 2012 KGI

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‘Dubai is a logical place to run business in the region’ Dubai, with its stability and infrastructure, is a “logical place” from which to run a business in the region, Frits van Paasschen, president & CEO of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, said.

“Dubai has stability. The infrastructure is there. It is clearly a place friendly to people coming in from other parts of the world. That kind of success begets even more successes. Dubai becomes a new melting pot. Dubai becomes a logical place for you to come to locate your business. It’s a gateway and a safe haven,” van Paasschen told Travel Arabia News.

Starwood will increase its Middle East and Africa (MEA) portfolio by more than 60 percent with nearly 50 new hotels set to open over the next five years, adding more than 14,000 guest rooms to the region and creating thousands of local employment opportunities. With 82 operating hotels and over 20 hotels expected to open by the end of 2015, Starwood said it is on track to reach a milestone 100 hotels across MEA. Starwood and its ownership groups will also invest over $200 million in the renovations of 13 hotels and resorts under its Le Méridien brand in the MEA region over the next 3 years.

“As you look at the economic development within a four- or fivehour flight of this area, there are few places where you feel as confident locating your business and capital to,” van Paasschen said.

He said it is “hard to overstate

Frits van Paasschen

the potential for our business in this region of the world.”

Throughout March this year, van Paasschen and Starwood’s senior leadership team were in Dubai and met with 3,000 associates, conducted nearly 50 owner meetings and visited all 14 Starwood hotels in the city. Dubai is Starwood’s second largest hotel market next to New York City.

The team also travelled to 19 cities across 12 countries, and met with government officials as well as potential development partners in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and India.

During the relocation, Starwood executives also met with more than 150 corporate and leisure customers who drive business to hotels globally. The Middle East is an increasingly important outbound travel market, and regional membership in Starwood Preferred Guest, the company’s loyalty program, has increased 140% over the last five years.

3 Hong Kong Shanghai Hotels scouting for a London property Hong Kong Shanghai Hotels, Ltd. (HSH), which owns and operates The Peninsula Hotel Group, is scouting for a property in London as part of plans to further establish the international hotel chain’s entry into Europe, following acquisition of the iconic Hotel Majestic in Paris, its first in the continent, which is scheduled to open late this year.

“We are opening in Paris. That is going to be our foothold in Europe. So after Paris, it will be very important that we find…a location in London. This will be our priority. Certainly, there is a possibility that there could be one in the future,” Malcolm Thompson, Peninsula Tokyo general manager, told Travel Arabia News.

Thompson was with a group of top-level Peninsula officials, led by Simon Yip, vice president for sales, who visited the Gulf in March this year to promote their properties located in Japan, Hong Kong, as well as in Beverly Hills, CA and New York City, NY in the US to the local market.

Also with the group were Jonathan Crook, Peninsula New York general manager, and Offer Nissenbaum, Peninsula Bevery Hills general manager.

Thompson said they visit the Gulf at least every two years despite already having a sales team in the region, “to make it a much more personal approach.”

Hotel Majestic opened in 1908 and was where the Paris Peace Accord, the treaty between the US and North Vietnam ending the war in Vietnam, was signed by then US National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger and Lê Ð\c Thọ of the Vietnamese politburo on January 27, 1973.

Thompson said the Paris property will significantly boost the Peninsula brand. “We kept the key features and added a touch of Peninsula,” he said.

The Peninsula Paris was developed by the Qatar government’s investment arm, Qatari Diar, and co-owned by Katara Hospitality, a Qatari government-run hotel owner, manager and devel-

Top level representatives from The Peninsula Hotel Group, were in the Gulf in March to promote their properties back home. From left, Malcolm Thompson, GM Peninsula Tokyo; Simon Yip, VP Sales, Peninsula Hotels; Jonathan Crook, GM Peninsula New York; and Offer Nissenbaum, GM Peninsula Bevery Hills.

oper which has been on a buying spree across the world of properties involving top brands like The Ritz-Carlton, Sheraton, Raffles, Marriott, Mövenpick and The Bürgenstock Selection.

The new Peninsula Paris has 200 rooms including 46 suites.

Clement King Man Kwok, HSH managing director and CEO

Rixos plans to open 25 new hotels in 2 years

Basak Erel

Turkish luxury hotel chain, Rixos, which was established 13 years ago in 2000 and slated to have over 25 hotels in different countries this year, is looking at having a total of 50 properties by 2015, according to Basak Erel, SVP for brand management.

“By the end of 2013 we will be having more than 25 properties in different destinations. We are aiming to have 50 properties by 2015,” Erel told Travel Arabia News.

This means opening 25 new hotels in the next two years, which Erel said may not be out of reach considering the market’s response to the Turkish brand so far.

“There are a lot of interests on the Rixos brand from investors.

They are coming to us and would like to work with us. This signifies our brand’s strength,” Erel said.

“The investors are also very happy with the services we offer.

There is a Turkish touch in our offerings, among them, the oldest

Turkish tradition, hammam, which we have in all our properties,” she added. Hammam is a Turkish variation of a sauna bath which became popular in the Victorian era and involves relaxation in a warm room, a cold bath, and a massage.

Rixos, which owns, manages and franchises properties, has experienced significant growth in recent years across Turkey, UAE, Croatia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Georgia, Libya and Egypt with plans to further expand to Azerbaijan, Switzerland, Russia and more locations in the Middle East.

Among the properties to open this year is Rixos Bab Al Bahr in Ras Khaimah, a resort project that started in February 2012 and consists of 627 rooms and suites, 14 multi-dining food and beverage outlets, and leisure facilities.

Erel said Rixos Bab Al Bahr will open around June this year. It is the second Rixos hotel in the UAE after Rixos The Palm which, for its part, was inaugurated in March last year.

The biggest of the company’s new ventures will be in Egypt, Sharm El Sheikh, where Rixos will open a 700-room hotel on the Red Sea. Rixos recently was inducted into the Global Hotel Alliance, the world largest group of independent hotel brands having over 320 upscale and luxury hotels with over 75,000 rooms across 57 different countries.

(Jojo Dass) www.travel-arabia.com

has said in recent media interviews that they plan to “build the most luxurious portfolio of Peninsula hotels for the next 50 years and in doing so we will inevitably choose cities that are competitive markets” like Paris and London.

Talks between HSH and the Qatari government for the acquisition of Hotel Majestic started

back in 2009. Qatari Diar has 80-percent ownership interest.

Total construction budget for the project was €338 million (US$ 443 million).

The Peninsula has 10 hotels across the world—Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo, Beijing, New York, Chicago, Beverly Hills, Bangkok, Manila and Paris. (JD)

4 Four Seasons Hotel Four Seasons gets Dubai beachfront spot Riyadh to open 50th floor exclusively for female guests

Greg A. Pirkle

Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, located in the iconic 100-story Kingdom Centre, will open its 50th floor exclusively for women guests starting May this year, Greg A. Pirkle, general manager, told Travel Arabia News.

“We are calling it the Pearl Floor. Women staff will be serving the guests. There will be female maids, as well as a lounge and a gym for women,” Pirkle said.

He said Pearl Floor has 22 regular rooms and suites. “We are the only one who’s doing this,” he

added.

Pirkle said 50 percent of the hotel’s occupancy comes from within Saudi Arabia and mostly from the oil and gas sector as well as other industries like pharmaceuticals and IT; Thirty percent are from member countries of the Gulf Cooperating Council and 20 percent from Europe and the US. “Occupancy has been very, very good,” said Pirkle. “Even though there has been quite a lot of growth right now in hotel rooms, the demand seems to be keeping up with it so we are running great occupancy. We are sold out several days every week,” he added.

The hotel occupies the 30th to 50th floors of the 320-metre high Kingdom Centre, and has 274 guest rooms including 36 luxury suites. The property, which has four food and beverage outlets, a tennis court, a 25-metre swimming pool and a 4,113-square metre ballroom opened, in February 2003.

Christopher Norton

Finally, after eight years of trying and waiting, Four Seasons, an international hospitality operator with about 13 ongoing pipeline projects around the world, has acquired a coveted property in Dubai—a Jumeirah beachfront spot .

“Dubai is such a popular destination that it is very difficult to find prime real estate, so we would rather wait on our case in developing our hotel until we find the right location versus developing just anywhere in the city. That’s why Dubai took long,” Christopher

SNH hotels to offer summer promos

Nasser Nasef

Taking pride for the personalized tailor-made services that its members provide, Sharjah Nationals Hotels will be coming up with summer promotions for the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions market that will include reasonable room rates and conference packages, according to Nasser Nasef, Group General Manager of Sharjah National Hotels.

“The personal service that Sharjah National Hotels provides is a huge factor for MICE customers and the extra capacity will be extensively utilized,” Nasef said.

“In addition to a personal planner for events, we offer world-class catering, innovative break activi-

ties and schedules, budget reviews for large events and modern, ergonomic facilities for leisure travelers, long-staying guests, corporate clients and the MICE market. SNH will launch its summer promotions that will include reasonably priced room rates and conference packages,” he added.

SNH owns Holiday International Hotel, which is located on the edge of Khalid lagoon and offers the convenience of a central location; Marbella Resort, which is popular for its intimate ambience that immediately transports guests to the Andalusian region of Spain; and Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa which was recently re-launched after full renovations. This luxury resort offer idyllic escape set acres of UAE’s picturesque East coast in the coastal town of Khorfakkan with 177 spacious guest rooms, five exceptional dining establishments and leisure facilities including a unique dive site.

Nasef said the properties received more than 75 percent of its business from tour operators and travel agencies in 2012. “We are expecting to have more this year,” he said. www.travel-arabia.com

Norton, Four Seasons president for hotel operations in Europe, Middle East and Africa, told Travel Arabia News.

Back in 2005, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts announced plans to operate a hotel in Dubai, particularly in Festival City which included a golf course. In anticipation of the hotel opening, Four Seasons was appointed as the operator of the Golf Club, which opened in 2007.

As the planned Four Seasons hotel did not proceed and since it was always the intention to operate a hotel in conjunction with the golf club, Four Seasons transitioned to a new operator, Norton said.

“We tried for many years. We waited for the owners to structure the deal. After a certain time, it didn’t make sense anymore,” Norton said.

This time around Four Seasons got a coveted prime property on Jumeirah Beach, the construction of which is progressing as scheduled. The five-storey, 237-key Four Seasons Resort Dubai is due to

open in Q4 2014. The resort will be home to multiple restaurants, and poolside dining. The function spaces which have beachfront access will include a 600- squaremetre ballroom and five meeting rooms.

Norton said occupancy projection for the first 24 to 36 months is at around 70 percent to 80 percent.

The international hotel chain is collaborating with UAE-based holding company, Bright Start L.L.C. on the project, which in turn has appointed H&H Investment and Development as the project manager.

Meantime, other Four Seasons projects under construction include Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, which is due to open mid 2014, and Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca, due to open mid 2014. Projects in the preliminary stages include Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, Four Seasons Resort Oman, Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait City and Four Seasons Ho(Jojo Dass) tel Jeddah.

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6 Veteran hotelier says Dubai tourism is almost back to pre-recession levels

Visitors to Dubai always get the best treat because of healthy competition among hoteliers. This according to Peter Mansourian, Grand Millennium Dubai general manager whose hotel has for months from June last year consistently topped guest satisfaction ratings for the entire Millennium & Copthorne Group worldwide.

Speaking to Travel Arabia News, Mansourian at the same time said Dubai’s tourism in-

dustry is now almost back to the pre-recession days of 2007 where visitors would ask for a room regardless of rates.

“Every five-star hotel is now doing 80-percent occupancy.

The cake is big enough for everybody—and it’s growing. Dubai is back to where it was in 2007, or moving towards that direction. It’s definitely improving.

“Back in 2007, visitors would ask, ‘Please get me a room in Dubai,’” Mansourian said, indicating that guests are once again asking the same thing.

Mansourian said the challenge now is to “keep abreast of what the hotel next door is doing.”

“Competition is tough and tourists are getting the best deals because of the healthy competition. They can have good choices,” Mansourian said.

Mansourian said this can be gleaned from the longer average length of stay that visitors have

when in Dubai.

“We have witnessed a longer average stay compared to the past few years. Some business travelers, who are booked via their companies for business, tend to extend their stay at their leisure to enjoy some more time in Dubai.

“Additionally, in the past, the low, high and shoulder seasons used to be more or less obvious but now major exhibitions and prominent events that are continually being held in Dubai and other attractive leisure events like concerts and so on play a big role in altering this norm,” Mansourian said.

He said Grand Millennium Dubai sees an increase of between four and six percent in occupancy this year over the previous one.

Hotels should average 85 percent this year, he added.

Meantime, in light of keeping abreast with the challenge for higher occupancy and better

Jumeirah Creekside Hotel completes work on Club House

Klaus Assmann

Jumeirah Creekside Hotel has completed renovation of its Club House which has several features of the Al Gharhoud five-star resort including its spa facilities, promising yet an even more memorable stay.

Klaus Assmann, general manager, said he will make an announcement about the Club House in this year’s Arabian Travel Market. Jumeirah Creekside Hotel opened its doors last July 2012, and this will be the first time to be at ATM. In the Club House are the internationally-acclaimed Akaru Spa, which has a totally refurbished space, a new look and an increased floor size with a stateof-the-art interior, two outdoor cabanas, and 14 treatment rooms; and the famous Aviation Club, one of Dubai’s hottest health and fitness destinations, with brand new facilities including state-of-the-art fitness equipment throughout the gym, four tennis courts and two squash courts.

Jumeirah Creekside Hotel’s popular Nomad Pan-Asian restaurant is also located in the Club House.

“We will announce the completed renovation of the Club House during ATM,” Assmann said.

Conveniently situated for access to Dubai’s International airport, Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, with 292 rooms, boasts impressive meeting facilities and has been the official hotel for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2013.

Assmann said the hotel “has seen a consistency in demand and growth within its first year of operation” with majority of the guests coming from UAE, the UK, Saudi Arabia, Germany and China.

“We are developing further business from Australia, South America, China and India,” he said.

Assmann said it has been a delight for the team of the Jumeirah Creekside Hotel to be the official

Hotel of the 2013 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. “The excitement and positive spirit of the team unit has been felt throughout the hotel. We were proud to be part of this prestigious sporty event,” he said.

According to him, the occupancy experienced at the hotel during the sport event was “extremely satisfying.”

“Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships vaulted Jumeirah Creekside Hotel into the world’s media eye. Having the Association of Tennis Professionals, the Women’s Tennis Association and top tennis players in the hotel experiencing our product and services, we received a great coverage within the local and international media,” Assmann said.

Aside from its world-class leisure facilities, Jumeirah Creekside Hotel also offers 25 well equipped meeting rooms ranging in their ability to host from 10 to 400 people.

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service, Mansourian said Grand Millennium Dubai will have its 140-room apartment tower undergo refurbishment from March to August this year.

“Everything will be changed.

90 percent of the rooms’ interior will be changed. To further enhance our services, we decided to implement a phased refurbishment of the apartment tower.

We are giving the apartments a new look and feel to match the requirements of our existing and new guests whether they are here for business or leisure,” he said.

Mansourian said other hotels do renovations only after 10 years.

“Grand Millennium Dubai is turning five years old and already we are refurbishing. The hotel needs to keep looking fresh. Our owner wants Grand Millennium Dubai to be ‘The Hotel,’” he said.

Mansourian said Grand Millennium Dubai’s feeder markets are the seven member countries

of the Gulf Cooperating Council (GCC)—Bahrain,Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates—followed by member countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) or nations under the former Soviet bloc of Eastern Europe.

Grand Millennium Dubai also gets guests from Germany, UK, US, Lebanon, Egypt, and in the Far East, Korea, he said.

Mansourian said 40 percent of the hotel’s clients are repeatguests under the hotel’s corporate account.

In the food and beverage area, Mansourian said the hotel’s restaurant customers are 70-percent city residents, 30 percent hotel guests.

Mansourian has been a hotelier for some 35 years, having done the rounds from front office job to room service before becoming general manager.

Ramada Ajman to boost tourism in the Northern Emirates in the hospitality and tourism industries, and we want to take this opportunity to learn and capture these markets.”

The property will exhibit alongside Ajman Tourism Development Department and introduce packages for both Ramada Hotel and Suites Ajman and Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman.

“We have recently opened the doors of Ramada Beach Hotel AjIftikhar Hamdani

Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman will attend this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM), to promote Ajman as a tourist and business destination, and maintain the property’s high occupancy.

In 2012, Ramada Hotel and Suites Ajman achieved 95% occupancy, the highest in the northern emirate. It aims to continue to be in the lead for the year 2013 by introducing the property and destination, seeking new ties and strengthening business relationships with existing partners during ATM. Iftikhar Hamdani, General Manager, Ramada Hotel and Suites Ajman, said: “The Arabian Travel Market is an excellent platform to meet regional and international contacts and we set sights on maintaining the hotel’s outstanding performance through our participation. In addition, there are new trends and emerging markets

In 2012, Ramada Hotel and Suites Ajman achieved 95% occupancy, the highest in the northern emirate. It aims to be in the lead for the year 2013. man, which is expected to further the tourism business in the emirate. Also, the timing of ATM, which is before the peak of the summer season for GCC travellers, plays a vital role in promoting our two hotels,” noted Hamdani.

Arabian Travel Market will run May 6 to 9, 2013 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC). The leading travel and tourism show in the Middle East, ATM brings together inbound and outbound professionals in the travel and tourism sector such as aviation, hospitality, travel agencies, and tourism boards.

7 Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria celebrates the family Launches special promotion

Michael von Siebenthal

Having been among the city’s first five-star hotels, Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria has, over the past 33 years, become a fixture such that there is always one in the local families who has had an occasion or two held there like a wedding or birthday.

Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria is giving back to the community, which for generations, has enjoyed its services and facilities, by coming up with special family offers to further connect the ties that bind.

As well, the hotel’s ballroom will undergo renovation to transform it into the perfect wedding venue with suggestions gathered from previous guests who had been there for such occasions.

“Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria has gone through so many cycles in the last 33 years that it has been here,” said Michael von Siebenthal, general manager. “With quite a unique positioning in the

local community which it has actually maintained all this years, the hotel has always been a landmark in Dubai, has always been respected by the local population and has always been very much anchored in the local community.”

Siebenthal said Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria “has remained a cornerstone” even with the hundreds of hotels that have opened across Dubai over the past years.

“It has been able to hold on to that homely feeling in the local community,” he said.

From April 11, 2013 until May 13, 2013, guests can stay three nights for the price of two in spacious rooms or luxurious suites and enjoy exciting leisure facilities, kid-friendly services, and award winning restaurants. A separate summer promotional offer will be held from May 15, 2013 until Sept.

14, 2013.

Guests at Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria can enjoy a world of entertainment without having to step outside the hotel. Moreover, popular shopping malls and several Dubai attractions are at a short distance from the hotel.

While staying at the hotel, guests can indulge at the Club Olympus Spa, dine at Al Dawaar, Dubai’s only revolving restaurant, or stroll in the lush green golf park. With the special kid-friendly service, children can have fun at the Kids’ Club, eat free at the lavish Friday Brunch, choose from

special kid’s menu, skate at the ice rink, and learn to play tennis or swim.

Moreover, a total of 2,304 square metres of banqueting space will be renovated in contemporary style to match needs for big occasions like weddings, as well as business functions.

“We really wanted our ballroom to be the perfect venue for ladies’ weddings. We took advice from local families who have had their weddings for generations in this hotel to get feedback from them on what they’d like to see in the ballroom. Essentially, this is still going to be predominantly a wedding venue. At the same time, we will also put the latest technology for MICE events,” Siebenthal said.

The ballroom can host up to

1,200 persons.

Additionally, a special enclave will be created with a central lounge with free flowing space, inclusive of an open kitchen area and meeting rooms that has new age facilities. This space would be able to host up to 80 persons.

Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria, which is located on the Deira Corniche, has 414 rooms and suites with sea views. It is also the only hotel in Dubai with an ice rink.

Among other leisure facilities are two squash courts and three tennis courts, as well as a nine-hole pitch and putt golf course.

For its part, the galleria, which is very popular with the GCC family market, has apartments with up to four bedrooms. Galleria guests can also use facilities that hotel customers can.

Other restaurants in the hotel are Miyako (Japanese), Shahrzad (Iranian), The Kitchen (International) and Laylati, an authentic Emirati kitchen that caters delectable Emirati cuisine to events within as well as outside the hotel.

Moreover, to suit the requirements of a non-stop gateway city that Dubai is, the hotel’s employees are from 80 countries.

Hyatt Regency & Dubai Galleria wrapped up 2012 with an 80-percent occupancy. Siebenthal said the projection for this year is pegged at around 86 percent.

“It is not bad considering that in the Ramadan months (of July and August) the occupancy is below 50 percent, so the rest of the year has to be pretty strong to finish above 80 percent,” he said.

Swiss-based bed bank company upbeat on ME prospects

Paul Riches

With outbound and inbound tourism traffic in some Gulf countries seen to increase in the coming years, the challenge for travel

and tour agents is how to book fast. Swiss-based lowcostbeds, a global bed bank with access to over 150,000 hotels, offices in 10 countries and a website available in 12 languages and 45 countries, has set up an office in Dubai with a promise to make things run smooth for hospitality businesses in the region.

“The Middle East is ripe with very solid outbound business particularly Saudi Arabia and Kuwait,” said Paul Riches, lowcostravelgroup sales director. “We find that a product like lowcostbeds offering a global inventory is absolutely the ideal partner for travel agents.”

The company has officially appointed Discover the World Marketing as its exclusive representative in the region and is looking to sign up with prominent regional and international travel agents.

“It is very, very difficult to get bookings and it is a very cumbersome process. We believe we are hitting the market correctly with lowcostbeds. We have a whole variety of ways that can help everybody at the different stages of the travel agency process,” said Riches.

He said that being a bed bank aggregate, lowcostbeds is a onestop-shop covering all business to business transactions for travel

www.travel-arabia.com

agencies and tour operators to reach a broad spectrum of hotels globally at a commissionable rate.

It also allows wholesaler travel agencies to broaden there product base and increase their hotel bookings, Riches said.

The Middle East is one of the fastest growing regions in terms of tourism with outbound travel quadrupling in the last 20 years.

The World Tourism Organisation estimates that an additional two million Arabs will travel abroad within the next twenty years, taking its total of outbound tourists to 37 million, spending an estimated $20 billion and accounting for 2.2

percent of global outbound travel, a rise of 0.7 percent.

“In the next two to three years, the company is looking to grow its annual turnover to over US$1bn.

Today, majority of our business is generated from the UK. Our objective now is to increase our business from other parts of the world, to become a truly global hotel provider. Our launch into the Middle East market is a key element of that strategy,” Riches said.

In 2012 the company’s group turnover was US$600 million, with over 2.5 million passengers staying in any one of the hotels it has links with.

8 ‘Hotel apartments here to stay’

Freddy Farid

Hotel apartments will be in for the long haul in the Gulf because it has become a preferred option for expatriates deployed in the region by their companies to man ongoing projects.

This according to Freddy Farid, Gloria Hotels and Resorts area general manager, who said hotel apartments addresses the needs to make long stay viable.

“The concept of the hotel apartment became more required for the last few years due to the comfort it provides as well as the savings on cost for the companies,” Farid said, adding that in

the UAE, where people need to stay on a monthly, even yearly basis, hotel apartments is a logical choice for accommodation.

Gloria Hotels and Resorts operates Gloria Hotel Apartments and Yassat Gloria Hotel Apartments which is on Sheikh Zayed Road in Tecom, Dubai.

Farid said the two properties, which opened respectively in 2010 and 2012, have achieved occupancy projections.

“We are so proud to say that with the number of units we have, we were be able to exceed our expectations with our occupancy figures,” he said.

These unique hotel apartments offer guests a wide range of rooms, suites and apartments to suit all needs. The Executive Suites available in Gloria Hotel Apartments are located on the first three levels of the hotel and provide its guests with a five-star experience such as access to the Executive Lounge on the 41st floor, breakfast and snack through the day and a dedicated check-in/ check-out reception desk.

Gloria Hotel Apartments also features exquisite fine dining experience including Sky Lounge located on the 40th floor which has a panoramic view of the Palm Jumeirah, La Terrasse located on the 8th floor which offers international buffet or à la carte to choose from for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Moreover, while watching the sunset, guests can enjoy shisha at the La Terrasse Tent, Le Grand Cafe, Pool bar.

Yassat Gloria Hotel Apartments for its part has an all-day dining restaurant—the Avenue— and a coffee shop, Cafe Royal located on the ground floor. It also a variety of meeting room.

The hotel apartments guests are mostly travelers and holiday makers from Germany, the member countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States as well as of the Gulf Cooperating Council.

Gloria Hotel Apartments has a banquet hall for up to 600 people .

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi unveils convention facilities

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, the iconic 5-star business hotel opening during May, has unveiled details about its highly specialised and flexible convention facilities that have been developed with the region’s rapidly-growing business events market in mind.

At the heart of the facilities is a spacious convention centre with a variety of function rooms that can host up to 2,000 people.

This includes the 785 square me-

tre Onyx Ballroom which is fully equipped to handle all types of events, conferences, exhibitions, meetings, banquets, weddings or social events.

The hotel offers a variety of meeting room facilities which can also be conveniently configured into different set-ups, ranging from 210 square metres to 365 square metres.

One of the highlights at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is the glass-

paneled Skydome – which is the ideal venue for car launches, exhibitions or similar events. The Skydome, which spans 2,000 square metres, covers one of the largest dedicated pre-function foyers in the region, across two floors with ample natural daylight.

Two boardrooms of 35 square metres each and a fully-equipped Business Centre complete the range of the meeting facilities. www.travel-arabia.com

Amwaj Rotana offers hassle-free business venues

Leisure hotel also ventures into five-star catering

Deasy Bahriany

Conducting business functions in hotels can be a challenge for participants especially when conference halls and meeting rooms seem to be tucked deep in a labyrinth of hallways, lifts, and corridors. Thus, it is not uncommon to see executives arriving at the venue flustered and frustrated because of losing valuable time trying to find their way.

Not at Amwaj Rotana, a fivestar hotel on the Jumeirah Beach Road strip, where guests are ushered into an elegant pre-function area in the lobby then led to their meeting place, which is a swift breeze walk from the main entrance.

Amwaj Rotana is also the only hotel on the strip with a humongous, state-of-the-art, highceilinged ballroom fit to sit up to 300 people. The ballroom is on the ground floor, thereby making it more convenient for business events to be held there.

There are around five other hotels in Amwaj Rotana’s immediate vicinities that also have conference rooms, but most of them have their ballrooms on the higher floors necessitating flights from lifts and confusing corridors, according to Deasy Bahriany, the hotel’s catering and events director.

Bahriany said all of Amwaj Rotana’s business function rooms have state-of-the-art equipment including LCD projectors. She said the hotel’s meeting rooms, of which there are three, have natural daylight flowing in. Two of these rooms can be adjoined.

Another factor that makes Amwaj Rotana, a leisure hotel, a preferred venue for business meetings is that guests can enjoy breath-taking views of the Arabian Gulf and the man-made Palm Islands from the comfort of their rooms. They also have a direct access to The Walk if they want to go for a walk during breaks in their conferences.

Bahriany said that as Dubai increasingly develops into a popular business destination, aside from being a holiday paradise, conducting business functions in a hotel that has leisure and conference facilities like Amwaj Rotana becomes

a practical option.

With such an allure, it comes as no surprise why Amwaj Rotana is steadily becoming a favorite business venue by companies here and abroad, among them, a U.S-based corporation which took 40 rooms for a three-day function in April.

Bahriany said it was the company’s first business function held in Dubai. “There are more bookings from other companies for similar events.

According to Bahriany, Amwaj Rotana’s guests from the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) segment are usually from UK, Germany and Saudi Arabia. She said the guests usually spend up to five days for their conference, and another three days for post-conference rest and recreation.

Bahriany said guests prefer to stay at Amwaj Rotana because of a “mix of many factors including Rotana being a brand name they can count on.”

Amwaj Rotana offers a Day Delegate Package (DDP) with rates starting from AED200 per person a day inclusive of coffee break, lunch, meeting equipment and some other facilities. A summer special version of the package starts at AED150, and will be in effect from May 15, 2013 to Aug. 30, 2013.

Meantime, Bahriany said Amwaj Rotana, popular for the menus at its restaurants, has ventured into catering, bringing out five-star food for people who want to have it where they are.

The catering program started on Jan. 1 this year and response from clients has been more than encouraging, according to her.

Bahriany said Amwaj Rotana did not have difficulty promoting its catering services because it has a “very strong and stable” food and beverage division. “We have a very good, qualified product and a great service,” she said.

In February, Amwaj Rotana provided catering services to some 300 people from 14 companies among them Siemens, Volkswagen and Amwaj Rotana itself, who did a clean-up drive at a natural reserve in the middle of the desert.

“Amwaj Rotana catered a big event complete with live cooking stations. We brought our F&B out.

There were six waiters plus chefs,” Bahriany said.

She said Amwaj Rotana’s catering services offers international cuisine as a standard package and more options of cuisines. According to her, most of the catering services the hotel has done were for clients who had attended functions at Amwaj Rotana.

9 Five Continents Hotels & Resorts Al Rais holds 4th annual travel show announces 4 upcoming projects

Burkhard Grunzke

Five Continents Hotels & Resorts (FCHR), which operates three properties in the United Arab Emirates including the oldest hotel in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), has four projects in the pipeline and is looking at expanding to Jeddah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), as well as Turkey and Germany, according to Burkhard Grunzke, regional general manager.

FCHR has Cassells Hotel Ghantoot, Cassells Hotel Barsha and Hansa RAK Hotel under its management. Hansa Hotels, which is based in Germany, is FCHR’s sister company.

“We have one more property coming soon in Dubai, two others in Abu Dhabi and one for Hansa Hotels in RAK. We are expanding outside UAE to Jeddah in KSA and with two properties in Bursa in Turkey as well as another one in North Germany,” Grunzke said, adding that the company is monitoring destinations that Emirates and Etihad airlines are opening to as well further chart its expansion

plans.

“We are also going into charter deals for new destinations that no regular flights are servicing such as Venezuela and other Latin American countries like Brazil,” he said.

Cassells Al Barsha is a walking distance from Mall of the Emirates and linked to metro rail system. “What makes it a stand-out is the fact that it has a complex formula guaranteeing a friendly and peaceful family atmosphere blended with business state of art facilities,” Grunzke said.

Cassells Hotel Ghantoot was a “scary bet to many hotel companies,” that FCHR took, he said.

“What makes us different is that we dared to do what others have declined and rejected. We took over Cassells Hotel Ghantoot in full risk and we strongly believe that with faith, Cassells Hotel Ghantoot will be a new success destination story just like our story in RAK, which we started while others refused to even consider thinking about,” Grunzke said.

FCHR “injected life” into the Ghantoot palace that is now Cassells Hotel Ghantoot, and added leisure facilities like paint ball, mini golf, tennis, volleyball, bas-

Five Continents Cassells Ghantoot Beach Resort & Spa

ketball for team competitions, quad bikes, as well as camel and horse riding, Grunzke said.

FCHR as well invested on the property’s private 1.5 kilometre beach with more greenery as well as easy access by developing the beach facilities for sailing, fishing, jet ski, surfing, and sea trips, among others, he added.

Food and beverage outlets were likewise changed where Cassells Hotel Ghantoot now have ranges to “exceed any family expectation,” he said.

“We injected the Five Continents buffet signature restaurant in all our properties offering 27,000 different dishes around 365 days of the year which brings without doubt something new to the whole region,” Grunzke said.

Moreover, he said the company also developed 30 new beach chalet rooms with beach access targeting special group and leisure clients from around the world.

Grunzke said FCHR has signed transactions with about 14 new operators regarding major deals to get the property’s rooms nearly sold out but kept some for the company’s selected loyal partners.

Cassells Hotel Al Barsha

Mohamed Al Rais

“Explore & Experience” the 4th Annual Travel Show organized by Al Rais Holidays to bring the world closer under one roof by providing all information about holiday destinations for this summer and beyond, run over a three-day period similar to previous years but at a new venue, The Mirdiff City Centre.

Al Rais Holidays is focused and aware of what its customers’ needs are, which is evident from the turnout of repeated and new visitors during the previous travel show, who include families, business travelers and individuals planning trips for adventures, sports, health and leisure.

“We make it a point to have different venues each time to tap more visitors,” said Mohamed Al Rais, deputy managing director.

This year’s three-day travel show took place from May 2 - 4 at The Mirdiff City Centre’s Galleria Ground Level, where travelers had the opportunity to meet world travel and tourism professionals who assisted them in getting first-

hand knowledge about the tourist destinations of their choice with value-added travel packages at the most lucrative rates.

“With the ongoing endeavor to make our customers get the best services and satisfaction, we have become an ISO 9001 certified organization which guarantees the customers’ consistent satisfaction where we use a set of principles that ensure a common sense approach to the management of our activities. This has given us more efficient working practices and focuses on the organizations business objectives to improve customer satisfaction,” said Al Rais.

The travel show aimed to promote destinations through tourism boards and tourism authorities from all around the world such as Europe, GCC, Australia, Asia and Middle East.

“We had tourism boards shaking hands with us in the last show from across the globe and this year is no different but with new boards participating to reap the success we have been having over the past years’ shows,” said Al Rais. “We always have a positive and visionary approach which has made us do this event every year since 2010 irrespective of the market trends.

This year’s show almost coincides with the 20th edition of Arabian Travel Mart and we are anticipating increased visitor numbers at event.”

This year’s show was sponsored

by Malaysian Tourism Board and Emirates NBD as banking partners.

Avionics ties up with Nas Air for Umrah pilgrims

Munir Sherwani

Avionics Travel & Holidays

(ATH), a destination management company which also specializes in group tours and events anywhere in the world, has partnered with Saudi Arabia’s international low-cost airline, Nas Air, to fill the void on the need for a one-stop package shop for Umrah pilgrims in the UAE. “The market lacks a professional provider of Umrah packages that’s why we’re doing this,” Munir Sherwani, ATH managing director told Travel Arabia News.

He said the package covers economy class plane tickets, hotel stay

with breakfast and airport transfers, as well as visa. “It’s growing tremendously. There are other franchises in Sharjah and Abu Dhabi but we’re the only one doing the Umrah package. We are the only one-stop shop,” Sherwani said.

He said ATH has direct contracts and room allotments with Swissotel Hotels & Resorts, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts as well as Raffles Hotels & Resorts. The company, Sherwani said, also has suppliers and agents in Saudi Arabia providing three- and four star hotel accommodations.

www.travel-arabia.com

Umrah is a pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia done by Muslims and can be performed at any time of the year. It is not compulsory but highly recommended.

Sherwani said the tie up with Nas Air also enables ATH to process packages for Saudi nationals wanting to visit and spend holidays in Dubai.

Sherwani said ATH is looking at acquiring franchises to be the general sales agent for more airlines as part of the company’s plans to expand its outbound traffic as well as

increase its Umrah package’s coverage. He said ATH plans to extend the Umrah package to Azerbaijan where pilgrims availing of the arrangement can go to Saudi Arabia via Dubai.

ATH specializes in group tour packages for anywhere in the world.

It has also branched out to conference like corporate business functions and event organizing like product launches. On the list of ATH’s top destinations are Turkey, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Greece and Switzerland.

(JD)

10 New Dubai Novotel sees 85% occupancy by end Q4 2013

Novotel Dubai Al Barsha, the biggest Novotel property in the city with 42 storeys and 465 rooms including 89 suites and over 100 interconnecting family rooms, will open this summer with a special room rate starting at AED 350 and a 30-percent occupancy projection that will build slowly to 85 percent by end of the year.

This according to Chris McFall, the hotel’s sales and marketing director, who told Travel Arabia News that while there already are hundreds of hotels in Al Barsha all harping on their proximity to one of the biggest shopping centres in the city—Mall of the Emirates— as an attraction, Novotel will still be a stand-out because, aside from being the largest hotel in the area, it will offer a competitive rate with

exclusive amenities and promotions that will appeal to both leisure and business travellers.

Topping this off, he said, is the hotel’s location which, with its 42 storeys, will overlook the Arabian Gulf, offering guests one of the best value views in the city with The Palm, Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa in the foreground. The hotel is also an ideal spot to watch the spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks, he said.

McFall said Novotel Dubai Al Barsha’s edge also lies on the fourstar property’s five-star service, its five food and beverage outlets and the launch of Cravin’ Cajun, the only Cajun Louisiana restaurant in Dubai. Cajun is a style of cooking characterized by a mix of French Canadian African and Native American influences popular in the US. ‘Buoyant’ “The Dubai market is currently extremely buoyant, and all sectors of the business including corporate, the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) and leisure segments are strong across the city.

“We predict to open with approximately 30 percent occupancy and build it slowly to around 85 percent by the end of Q4,” Mcfall said.

McFall said Novotel Dubai Al Barsha will cater to the leisure and MICE market segments.

For the family leisure market, McFall said Novotel Dubai Al Barsha has interconnecting rooms and suites of one to three bedrooms ideal for longer stays and relocation to the city. He said the hotel will offer a special family room promotion that allows up to two children under the age of 16, sharing the parents’ room to stay and enjoy breakfast free of charge. A 50-percent discount on the second room is also available for children aged between eight and 16 years.

‘Eureka’ On the MICE side, McFall said a “Eureka” concept, designed to enhance discussion and creative thinking in a multi-flexible meeting room environment, while delivering fully personalised packages will be implemented. The hotel has complimentary wi-fi and a dedicated MAC web corner.

The hotel has a business centre and nine function rooms with the latest technology, designed for meetings, seminars and events and accommodating up to 250 guests.

“We aim to offer business guests a unique experience basing our services,” he said.

Lama Tours introduces summer packages

Kulwant Singh

Lama Tours, a big destination management company, has come up with three summer packages for overseas operators and the local market, buoyed apparently by an 11-percent growth in the first quarter of the year.

“2012 had been a rather challenging year for the travel industry, but the first quarter of 2013 showed a great increase in business from the India market. We have seen an 11-percent growth for this period and we are hoping to do a 25-percent to 26-percent (growth) toward the year end,” Kulwant Singh, managing director, told Travel Arabia News.

Among the special promotions launched for the summer is a package for three nights with a lot of inclusions such as safari, cruise, city tour, and certain excursions based

over 40 hotels in the UAE. Singh said the response have been “extremely good.”

For the local market, Lama Tours has launched two offers—the Express Visa that allows residents to invite their family and friend with a hassle free visa processing; and the Fantastic Four, which offers residents to buy any four tickets of the company’s best four services and get the fifth one free.

Singh said most of Lama Tours’ transactions were in-bound. “The main source markets,” he said, were “India, China and the GCC region.”

“We also have a holiday division and our numbers for outbound have been increasing year after year. We had a few groups to Amsterdam, Hong Kong and we are hoping to do a lot more to Macau,” he said.

This year, the focus is on India and China, Singh said, adding, “we want to retain our market share and strengthen it further. And also create more opportunities in the local market.”

Lama Tours recently concluded a road show in India participated in by the largest delegation of hoteliers from Dubai. Singh said the road show covered four cities: Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai.

‘Gangnam Style’ Psy to The Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi showcases its growing portfolio at ATM 2013 showcase Korea’s tourism push

Ruprecht Schmitz

The Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi consistently strives every year to present a strong showing at the Arabian Travel Market, the main and well-established leading travel and tourism fair for the entire region.

ATM has witnessed phenomenal growth over the past years which are a reflection of the major significance of the UAE in the world and consequently, it is a platform of paramount importance for the Hotel to explore and enhance business opportunities.

“We are on track with the strategy of the Capital and in tune with today’s travelers, introducing and reinforcing our brand in essential markets as well as renewing our efforts to promote both our property and the UAE as a destination,” says Ruprecht Schmitz, General Manager of the Hotel.

“To continue to create awareness, Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi participation at ATM provides a perfect tool for us to support the tourism industry and Abu Dhabi, which is plentiful of touristic attractions such as cultural landmarks, archeological sites, natural beauty as well as its rich history, not to forget the latest addition of Yas Waterworld; this makes it one of the world’s fastest growing markets,” elaborated Schmitz. Such an event is an important medium for the Millennium which will not only provide us with an unique chance to showcase our name but also gives us a chance to meet our customers, airlines, travel agents, tour operators as well as industry

counterparts and leaders. It will enable us to attend diverse seminars, ignite discussions and debates, increase business interactions and create networking opportunities.

Moreover, we seek to develop new revenue streams through developing existing contacts and working on new ones where the Hotel illustrates its potential to foster greater business development and enhance knowledge and capabilities. All this is also made possible with the close partnership with TCA Abu Dhabi and Etihad Airways who are the key contributors to the advancement of tourism in Abu Dhabi and strive to shape together the future of our industry. Our participation at ATM over the past years was extremely successful as we achieved substantial mileage in respect of the promotion of the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi, which is a testimony to the strength of our brand’s high visibility as well as the Hotel’s status as a continuous hub and essential venue for business and leisure travelers alike. www.travel-arabia.com

Seung Hyun Hwang

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) recently filmed a 2013 Korea Tourism commercial with an appearance by YouTube sensation Psy, popular for his hit song, “Gangnam Style” This year, the ad introduces viewers to Korea through “Psy’s Wiki Korea.” In the commercial, Psy employs wit to introduce major attractions including Jeju Olle Walking Path, and Myeongdong.

KTO produces yearly commercials to promote Korea as a tourist destination.

The commercial will air in May on major international media outlets, said Seung Hyun Hwang, KTO regional director for Dubai, adding that the ad is already stirring curiosity over how the charms of Korea will compare with Psy’s presentation.

“Gangnam Style” is the 18thK-pop single by the South Korean musician, Psy. On December 21, 2012, “Gangnam Style” became the first YouTube video to reach a billion views.

As of April 29, 2013, the music video has been viewed over 1.567 billion times on YouTube.

The phrase “Gangnam Style” is a Korean neologism that refers to a lifestyle associated with the Gangnam District of Seoul.

There were 122,191 Middle East visitors to Korea in 2012, a 17.3 percent higher compared to the previous year, according to Hwang.

Of this figure, 7,970 were from Saudi Arabia; 6,568 from Iran; and 3,866 from the United Arab Emirates, he said.

11 Auris Hotels goes digital

Hatem Gasmi

With the recent shift in the hotel industry where consumers prefer to do their reservations online and through phone, Auris Hotels has gone digital and developed a secure access for phone and website booking as well as an online payment process, according to Hatem Gasmi, managing director.

At the same time, Gasmi disclosed that Auris Hotels, which already has six properties in operation, has another that is soon to open in Oman by the end of this year.

“We practice responsible tourism,” said Gasmi. “We promote an open-minded approach to other cultures. We host guests from all over the world. We are well known

in the GCC markets as well as Russia, Europe and South America,” he added.

The future looks bright for the Auris Group, Gasmi said, taking pride in the company’s forthcoming projects as the hotel gears to open in several locations across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Based in Dubai, Auris Hotels is among the most dynamic and fastest growing group of hotels in the MENA region. Freedom of Choice is the central operating concept of the Auris Group, and the company offers the general public the unique opportunity to choose a hotel within the umbrella that not only suits their needs but also fits their budget.

To date, the Auris brand has 1,313 rooms and suites spread in six properties ranging from boutique and budget to the exotic five-star Auris Plaza Hotel. All hotels are located just a few steps from the city’s overhead light rail metro stations, thus offering convenience in travel.

With the management’s commitment to social responsibility, all current and upcoming hotels

under the Auris brand are alcohol-free.

The Auris Group is also in the process of reinforcing a sustainable approach to the daily business which will include the concepts of go-green, eco-friendly practices, economic, social and cultural sustainability, Gasmi said.

Auris Hotels, which regularly participates in various exhibitions and road shows like ITB Berlin, International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) in China, World Travel Market (WTM) and Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market, will be in this year’s Arabian Travel Market to be held May 6 - 9 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

“We encourage local and international tourists and travellers to visit us at this year’s ATM exhibition to discover and explore business opportunity with us. Our stand at the exhibition is HC5460; come and experience the warmth of Dubai’s unparalleled hospitality and see how Auris features innovative hotel standards and unique business concepts,” Gasmi said.

(JD)

Al rais Online B2B Award winning Agency, inspired and motivated to give you the best services

Year-old Auris Plaza Hotel gains hold on key markets

David Milican

Only a year old, Auris Plaza Hotel, which stands next to Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates, has cut a niche, having been recently nominated as one of the “Best New 5-Star Hotels of the Year 2012” for the MENA Travel Awards 2013, and as well established itself in key markets, said David Milican, general manager.

“The Plaza has gone from strength to strength throughout the year. With a varied mix of customers from around the world, we have established ourselves in key markets such as the GCC, South East Asia, Germany, CIS, as well as the Eastern European and South American markets,” Milican said.

He said the hotel has experienced a very strong 2013 first quarter, with the forecast for the remainder of the year looking very positive.

Throughout the month of Ramadan, the hotel will also be holding a Turkish Food Festival for If-

tar. The promotion will be held in partnership with the Academy of Culinary Arts in Istanbul. Visiting chefs will be working alongside the hotel’s kitchen brigade to produce an authentic Turkish food experience, according to Milican.

Moreover, Milican said management plans to expand the number of two-bedroom suites in the hotel to meet the demands of the market and fulfill the guests’ satisfaction. It is important that the hotel learns from its guests and reacts to the demand for large suites which has been a key factor since opening, he said.

The five-star Auris Plaza Hotel opened on April 5, 2012 with 337 rooms including 54 suites.

Guests have a dining choice between Zuri Asian Restaurant which offers Thai, Chinese, Malaysian, Indonesian and Vietnamese cuisine and Didon Restaurant specializing in Arabic and International Cuisine.

In line with the hotel’s digital approach, the Auris Café and Zuri Restaurant offer the “What You See is What You Get” concept through the iPad menu.

Leisure facilities include a fully equipped fitness gym and Vital spa offering several treatment areas.

The hotel will continue to enhance the product with a major upgrade of the leisure facilities this summer.

(JD)

Auris First Central Hotel Suites eyes 10% growth this year

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www.travel-arabia.com

The Auris First Central Hotel Suites, a towering 30-storey hotel apartment in Dubai’s TECOM district, has consistently achieved its market share target throughout its first year of operations and is moving into the second year with a firmer resolve to achieve a 10-percent annual growth, according to Ammar Kanaan, general manager.

Kanaan said management is confident about the upward growth of the hotel, even as he

stressed that travel agents have been instrumental for the success during the pilot year.

“Beneficial partnerships with travel agents and participation in various international exhibitions and road shows have multiplied the hotel’s ratings and guest bookings especially from the GCC countries, Russia, UK and Germany,” Kanaan said.

Auris First Central Hotel Suites has 524 studios and bedroom suites. It is just five minutes from Dubai Internet City Metro Station giving guests easy access to major leisure spots and business locations in the city.

The aura of the tastefully done décor with fully equipped kitchenettes and the expansive number of apartments gives the property an edge in the market which has translated to a steady flow of guests throughout the year, Kanaan said.

(JD)

12 Michel Noblet Hotelier first

Michel Noblet

Celebrating 50 glorious years as hotelier, Mr. Michel Noblet, President and Founding Partner, HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings, has come to be recognized as an institution by himself in the industry. His incredible experience spans across five continents in over 65 countries from Europe to Africa, the Caribbean region, Middle East, West Asia and Asia Pacific.

During the course of his journey, Michel worked with some of the most prestigious hospital-

ity brands in the world including Eiffel Tower, Café de la Paix the most celebrated meeting place in Paris for over 120 years, Reserve de Beaulieu in the French Riviera and Rubens Hotel on Buckingham Palace Road in London, Grand Hotel – a true landmark in the centre of the city and Le Meridien Hotels and Resorts. Traveling far and wide, he created milestones wherever he went.

Tracing his footsteps is not an easy task as he almost runs while

others walk. A major watershed in Mr. Noblet’s career was the formation of HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings in partnership with H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Sultan Al Qassimi and H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal Al Qassimi. “Our goal was not to build the greatest hotel of all times – but simply to create an experience that offered something different from the status quo”.

Mr. Noblet says, “The dynamics of the hotel industry are changing worldwide and smart hotels are emerging as a compelling business opportunity. Our strategy at HMH has been to offer a new generation of hotels, specially created to address the unique needs of different travellers. We are a comprehensive company for a developer providing all the fundamentals – exceptional product, world-class service, a strong international team with extensive regional experience, signature Arabic hospitality, unique operating standards and powerful marketing and central reservation system.

“Our greatest strength is our people and our ability to reengineer ourselves on a daily basis according to the situation and demands of the day. A big plus being we are only a

www.travel-arabia.com

personality profile phone-call away when required.”

Hospitality comes naturally to Mr. Noblet. Ask him to define the word and he says, “Hospitality is as much about diplomacy as it is about welcoming people. Respect for people and cultures are essential part of hospitality just as care, attention to detail and generosity are”.

Mr. Noblet biggest strength lies in reinventing himself at every step. He works with a vengeance and pursues with a passion. “Wise leaders are wise followers. Work without passion leads to burnout.

Hence, never let the sense of being alive and passionate die in you. One has to find ways to overcome the setbacks that are only temporary.

Indeed he has led a fascinating life where no two days have ever been similar. “When I start my day, I do not know how it would end.

And that’s the beauty of our business. It’s just so unpredictable. You have a surprise waiting for you at every step”.

How has the hotel industry evolved in the last 50 years? Michel says, “The basics or fundamentals

of hospitality are still the same.

However, there have been some very significant changes. Before there were only a few top international hospitality brands, today you have hundreds of regional, local hotel chains – that gives people a lot more choice. What’s changed too is the way of life that dictates our business and people’s preference.

“People are far more challenged for time today hence they desire greater efficiency in service. Another big change has also been in the airline and marketing business, most importantly low-cost carriers that have completely re-drawn the map of the world opening destinations that few had heard of. Over the years what has changed dramatically is the technology that has opened a world of opportunities.

Today, it is the young travellers who are driving change in our industry with social media.

So what does the future hold for hospitality? According to Mr. Noblet, “Hotel of the future could be on the moon or Mars. We are moving more and more in the direction of sustainable developments where (Continued on p. 21)

Ghantoot

Bird-watching. Secret beach. Polo

c o ve r st o ry

13

The place, a destination tucked in between two destinations, is where you’d want spend a getaway at and yet still be close to anywhere.

If you’re into bird-watching, or polo, or hidden beaches with its white sand set against the turquoise sea, Ghantoot it is.

Located only 20 minutes from Dubai or about 40 minutes from Abu Dhabi, Ghantoot is that destination in between destinations often overlooked by visitors, and by some extent, local residents as well because it is so tucked in—which is great because this means you can have the place to yourself.

Ghantoot is where you’d want to spend a getaway yet still be close to anywhere—be it Abu Dhabi’s Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld theme park, Dubai’s JBR The Walk or IBN Batuta Mall.

Wrote one adventurer who had been to the place, “You are rarely joined by more than a handful of people; the loungers are so spaced out. For peace and quiet that can turn into fun and frolics, Ghantoot is your beach.”

Bird watching Now if that doesn’t give you a close-enough picture of how it is in Ghantoot, then you may also find it interesting to note that some areas of the place are great to see cream-coloured Coursers, Pacific Golden Plover, pipits, Pied, Desert and Isabelline Wheatear, and Caspian Plover.

A group of bird lovers have said it is always worth a stop at Ghantoot for Grey Hypocolius around November to April. “This is currently the only site in the country the birds are seen with any regularity,” said Tommy Pedersen in his site, “UAE Birding: The eastern hotspot of the Western Paleartctic” on www.uaebirding.com Pedersen said Grey Hypocolius birds often provide only fleeting views at first, looking quite similar to a Southern Grey Shrike or a bulbul.

Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club Of course, there’s more to Ghantoot than birds and beaches.

The place is home to the Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club, which just recently concluded the HH President of UAE Cup 2013 which was participated in by five teams across the Gulf.

Set in 300 hectares of lush grassland, the club boasts worldclass polo and equestrian facilities, showcasing eight polo fields, stables for over 300 top-class polo ponies and a 2,000-seater grandstand equipped with VIP entrance, media facilities and business centre.

The club’s colonial-style clubhouse includes dining facilities with outstanding views of the polo

field as well as a swimming pool and fully equipped gymnasium.

Over the years the club has played host to the royal family, visiting kings and famous personalities. The club is known as one of the most prestigious and exclusive polo clubs in the region.

Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club was founded 1994 and is a private, royal venue sprung up around the vision of the late President, HH Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Today, it is run under the patronage of his son H.H Sheikh Falah Bin Zayed Al Nayhan.

Five Continents Cassells Ghantoot Beach Resort & Spa There are not that many hotels in Ghantoot, but there’s one that offers elegance fit for royalties: Five Continents Cassells Ghantoot Beach Hotel & Resort, a secluded haven on the Arabian Gulf filled with serenity and hospitality.

Just 15 minutes from Dubai Media City and Ibn Battuta Mall and 20 minutes from Mall of Emirates, the resort is also ideally located exactly 30 minutes away from either Dubai or Abu Dhabi International Airports.

The style of the resort reflects the contemporary Arabian Palace style, resplendent with domes and arches. Visitors can enjoy a unique

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experience that will be enhanced with the resort’s majestic and luxurious services.

Suites and Beach chalets Whatever your accommodation needs, Five Continent Cassells Ghantoot Beach Resort & Spa has the most requirements for you.

Whether you are visiting the UAE for business, leisure or you need a perfect getaway from your busy city schedule, the resort’s 88 wellappointed suites and 30 Beach Chalets are equipped with all the modern conveniences.

The resort has connecting family rooms offering direct beach and garden access as well as marina facilities. It is also just few minutes away from UAE’s most secluded untapped open sea areas.

Indeed, you can treat yourself to tranquility and relaxation in a luxurious Arabian palace at Five Continents Cassells Ghantoot Beach Resort & Spa, which welcomes guests with the true meaning of Arabian hospitality.

With 88 luxurious suites including four Royal suites with three bedrooms, four Diplomat suites with two bedrooms, Executive suites with one bedroom and 30 spacious beach chalets, the resort provides for a unique accommodation option. All suites have a balcony for the splendid

view, and are elegantly equipped with central air conditioning, IDD phone, internet access, satellite TV, mini bar, in-room safe, and hair dryer, among others.

There is also a wide choice of leisure facilities including a fully equipped state-of-the-art gymnasium, sauna, jacuzzi, squash, volleyball and tennis courts, billiards, paint ball, swimming pool, private beach and water sports.

The Five Continent Cassells Ghantoot Beach Resort & Spa Kids Club takes care of your kids entertainment, a supervised play area along with a pool and a nursery are available for kids giving the parents the chance to relax and enjoy their time.

Be it with your family, friends or loved-ones it is a get-away that will truly be memorable and picturesque.

Five Continents Cassells Ghantoot Beach Resort & Spa is located close to Ghantoot Polo & Racing Club.

Enquiries and reservations: +9712 5068888 www.fivecontinents.co

14 The Middle East is currently Banyan Tree’s 5th largest market.’

One on One

—Mr. Abid Butt CEO, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts

Mr. Abid Butt initially joined Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts as Area General Manager for the Group’s flagship resort, Banyan Tree Phuket, over ten years ago, followed by his appointment as the first Vice President of Operations. In this capacity, Mr. Butt oversaw operations and branding for existing hotels and resorts and the launch of new properties.

Travel Arabia News: Banyan Tree started out as a small Phuket resort in 1994. Today, 18 years later, Banyan Tree has over 30 hotels and resorts, over 68 spas, 78 retail outlets and three golf courses in 28 countries. To what factors would you attribute this growth?

Abid Butt: I believe that Banyan Tree’s strong founding principles have been integral to the success of the company along with the brand’s ethos which celebrates the romance of travel through delivering unique and inspiring experiences.

Our three founding principles - people, planet and profit - are the cornerstones to our working practice. The hotels are not only built with minimum disruption to the surrounding areas – indeed some of our hotels have trees growing through public areas – but the community is employed and supported as much as possible. This can be seen through our 78 retail outlets, Banyan Tree Gallery, which sells signature Banyan Tree products such as incense burners, candles, home furnishings and spa cosmetics as well as locally inspired furnishings by local cottage industries. In addition, the Green Imperative Fund was introduced to develop community and environmental projects, whereby each guest is asked to contribute USD1 for every night they stay (they can opt out if they wish) and Banyan

Tree matches this dollar for dollar.

These founding principles have been the driving force for expansion over the last 18 years and have undoubtedly contributed to the success of the company by focusing on the long term benefits and respect for stakeholders. We feel that this approach will always succeed over short term gain.

The group owns two hotel companies, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts and Angsana Hotels & Resorts. Banyan Tree offers a sanctuary for the senses that rejuvenates the body and revitalizes the mind in a setting that promotes total relaxation. The hallmarks of the overall experience are private pool villas with verdant gardens and an Asian tropical garden spa. This was a pioneering proposition when Banyan Tree Phuket launched, as most hotels offered suite accommodation and spas were usually found in stark European clinics.

I am also proud of the success of Angsana Hotels & Resorts, the sister hotel brand to Banyan Tree, which launched in 2000 in Bintan, Indonesia and has since grown to over 10 resorts and over 40 spas.

Angsana is a complimentary hotel experience to Banyan Tree; designed as contemporary, chic retreats for the modern traveler, it has a trendy and spirited personality and appeals to a wide range of holidaymakers.

We now have hotels across the world including the Middle East, China, Mexico, North Africa and Indonesia and instrumental to this expansion, is product innovation.

There are many hotel companies now offering private pool villa accommodation but not all of them offer the same level of authenticity with locally inspired design and architecture, locally sourced produce, locally employed staff and excursions and activities that celebrate the local culture. All of these elements are inherent within each Banyan Tree experience and this is what helps us to differentiate and also to prosper.

Tan: How does Banyan Tree plan to further expand? To where?

Why there?

AB: We are planning six new hotel openings this year - five in China and the other in Kerala, India. We have also just recently launched a new integrated resort concept in Vietnam, Laguna Lang Co which features both Banyan Tree and Angsana hotels and spas. It is a similar concept to the first integrated resort we launched at Laguna Phuket in Thailand and we

hope it will be just as successful.

The hospitality industry was hit hard during the world economic crisis and some of our hotel management contracts and projects in the Middle East were put on hold but now that world economies are beginning to stabilise, we hope to have new projects confirmed soon, starting with the opening of an Angsana hotel in Oman in 2014, Angsana Sifah.

We are also seeing a shift in global travel trends, with the increased interest from the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China) nations for overseas travel and also continued growth from mature

and the culture. With the worst of financial crisis behind us, I believe this demand and thirst for travel and new experiences will continue to grow in 2013.

TAN: How do you see UAE as a destination?

AB: The UAE is one of the big success stories for tourism over the last 10 years. The level of growth has been astounding and the diversity of product and experiences is also impressive.

From a destination point of view, it has all the contributing factors to ensure its continued success with the year-round warm weather

‘The hallmarks of the overall experience are private pool villas with verdant gardens and an Asian tropical garden spa. This was a pioneering proposition when Banyan Tree Phuket launched, as most hotels offered suite accommodation and spas were usually found in stark European clinics.’ markets in Europe and the US but also from the Middle East. In order to cater to this surge of interest, we are considering hotel locations that will appeal to the new markets but also to the mature markets, showcasing culturally rich destinations that surprise and delight.

We know that our guests are looking for memorable experiences and the locations we choose must evoke the essence of the country

and the breadth of experiences, from desert adventures to expansive shopping centres, yachting and sailing along with the vast array of hotel accommodation, from luxury high rise opulence to desert camping.

The Middle East is currently Banyan Tree’s 5th largest market.

We are really proud of what we have achieved at our Ras Al Khaimah resorts, Banyan Tree Al Wadi

and Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah, Beach. Each of the emirates offers a different experience and Ras Al Khaimah is special because it is the only emirate to offer desert, mountains and the Arabian sea.

Banyan Tree Al Wadi has been built and designed to capture the feeling of living in the desert, with villas emulating the Bedouin tents or traditional mud hut houses exquisitely designed using local materials and sumptuous fabrics and furnishings - so although there is a strong sense of nomad life, there is also the exclusivity that Banyan Tree guests come to expect including the world renowned Banyan Tree spa and hydrotherapy centre.

For me, the wildlife centre is what really sets the experience apart with its resident gazelles, oryx, camels, falcons and eagles to name a few. We are the only hotel in the Middle East that can teach guests how to catch and release falcons – an experience that brings you a step closer to nature at its best.

The beach resort is just 20 minutes from the desert resort. It offers an entirely different holiday experience – 32 tented villas sit majestically on the sandy coastline with a beautiful skyline of twinkling ocean, and a sweeping beach with relaxed al fresco restaurant and infinity pool. The resort is reached by a traditional boat which is also used for romantic sunset cruises around the bay.

About Mr. Abid Butt Mr. Butt initially joined Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts as Area General Manager for the Group’s flagship resort, Banyan Tree Phuket, over ten years ago, followed by his appointment as the first Vice President of Operations. In this capacity, Mr. Butt oversaw operations and branding for existing hotels and resorts and the launch of new properties.

He holds a Master of Science degree in Real Estate from Johns Hopkins University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix, San Diego. His hospitality industry education was completed at Johnson & Wales University with double Bachelor of Science degrees in Food Service Management and Hotel, Restaurant & Institutional Management. www.travel-arabia.com

15 ‘The next 12 to 18 months represent a very busy period. We have over 3,000 rooms adding up to our portfolio, which represents an additional 14 hotels.’

—Mr. Ali Lakhraim CEO, Millennium & Copthorne

also higher financial benefits to this model for both the owner and the operator.

A lower cost structure, higher financial returns and a more efficient and practical design, are elements that have influenced many investors to consider the model and we have then been able to match it with the right branding opportunity.

Millennium & Copthorne is opening a new brand for the serviced apartments segment. Mr. Ali Lakhraim, CEO explains why and as well shares details about the company’s plans and projects.

TRAVEL ARABIA NEWS: Millennium & Copthorne has recently launched a new brand – the Millennium Executive Apartments -in the region. Why? Ali Lakhraim: We have noticed that there is a serious demand for serviced apartments in the region and that guests coming to the UAE or other GCC countries are often staying longer than those coming to any other places in the world.

Many business travelers, contractors, consultants are being assigned for a couple of months in the region and they would often opt for a serviced apartment where all the amenities and services are provided with no hassle. GCC visitors are also requesting larger and multi-connected rooms, travelling along with their family. Having the opportunity for them to choose the right type of facilities with the same level of quality services at often better rates seems a logical choice.

We have also experienced from existing hotels having serviced apartments that their residential component is sustaining high levels of performance and there were

TAN: How is this new brand different from the other Millennium brands?

AL: Millennium Executive Apartments has evolved from the DNA of Millennium Hotels, offering all the luxury and comfort that a hotel has to offer with a feeling of being perfectly at home.

Millennium Executive Apartments cater comprehensively to the needs of business and leisure travelers who are looking for medium to long-term stays.

opening of Millennium Executive Apartments in the near future?

AL: We are moving along with the schedule to open our second hotel apartment property in Dubai Marina by the end of 2013.

We are looking at taking the brand into Saudi Arabia where the market is tremendous for such product type in different cities such as Madinah, Makkah, Riyadh or Jeddah. Other subsidiary cities are also under the radar and we believe the Kingdom is one of our biggest growth potential for the brand.

Other cities in the region are part

of our future targets and we are in talks with Doha and Istanbul, and will potentially be increasing the presence in existing markets with mature demand such as the UAE. TAN: Lastly, could you please tell us about the company’s plans for the current year? How many hotels are scheduled to open in the region?

AL: The next 12 to 18 months represent a very busy period for the company. We have over 3,000 rooms adding up to our operating portfolio which represents an

additional 14 hotels to join the region with market entry in Muscat, Al Ain, Fujairah, Sharjah, Madinah and further market growth in Sulaimaniah, Abu Dhabi and Doha.

We are pleased to see most of our brands being deployed in the future openings from Grand Millennium, Millennium and Copthorne Hotels.

The first half of 2013 would see the Millennium Executive Apartments Abu Dhabi opening with 198 rooms, two Copthorne in Madinah with a combined sum of 390 rooms and another Copthorne in Sharjah with 255 rooms.

About Mr. Ali Lakhraim Mr. Ali Lakhraim established the business 10 years ago. It has since become one of the region’s fastest-growing groups, with 15 properties operating and another 40 in the pipeline. It was in his previous role as Deputy Director General of Abu Dhabi National Hotels that Mr. Lakhraim first got a taste for the hospitality industry, and he saw an opportunity to bring the global brand Millennium & Copthorne to the Middle East & Africa. Mr. Lakhraim holds a B.Sc in Engineering Management from the University of the Pacific, California, USA.

TAN: The new brand will debut with Millennium Executive Apartments Abu Dhabi in the end of Q1 2013. What makes the UAE capital the ideal fit for the brand?

AL: Abu Dhabi still has a strong reliance on corporate demand. While the government is taking various initiatives to boost leisure demand, we have realized that the growth in business activities in the capital is increasing the demand for longterm stays.

Also, despite the rental decline lately, the city still has one of the highest residential costs with limited properties offering adequate facilities and services.

The two combined elements - a robust business demand and a limited value for money in the residential sector, have certainly reinforced our decision to launch the brand here.

TAN: Could you please tell us about the brand’s development pipeline? Which other Middle Eastern destinations could see the

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16 ‘Performance for our properties throughout 2012 exceeded our expectations.’

Mr. Moritz Klein General Manager Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa and Area General Manager, Abu Dhabi

Mr. Moritz Klein has an international career in hospitality that spans 28 years across Europe and Asia. He has spent the last nine years in the Middle East and has been a major player in the ongoing development of the region’s hospitality landscape, in particular Abu Dhabi.

TRAVEL ARABIA NEWS: What is Anantara’s branding strategy and standing within the luxury brands in region?

Moritz Klein: Anantara’s brand DNA focuses primarily on providing unique and memorable experiences that are indigenous to the region where the hotel and resorts are located. Heritage and culture is at the forefront of everything we do as a brand.

Anantara is the only brand in the UAE that offers a full 360degree experience with city, desert and island in its portfolio. This makes Anantara unique and a stand-out in the luxury market.

TAN: How is Anantara redefining

luxury travel in the set of some good brands already working here?

MK: By far the most important aspect of Anantara’s properties in the UAE is their unique setting. Each property is distinct and incorporates its surroundings beautifully into the design, operations and ambience of the hotel.

Each of our properties offer an indigenous destination experience.

Having exceptional resorts in three stunning surroundings, each with a strong identity is a key differentiator which sets us apart from the competition.

TAN: What is the scope of leisure tourism in Abu Dhabi, and in general, UAE? MK: As one of UAE’s booming industries, leisure tourism continues to thrive across the country.

While Dubai has traditionally been regarded as the centre for leisure visitors in the UAE, the competition from other emirates is growing everyday. As UAE’s leisure industry evolves and matures, we are increasingly seeing distinct offerings emerge from each of the emirates, which in turn, is attracting a wider spectrum of visitors than ever before.

Abu Dhabi’s success in attracting business travelers and growing the MICE market has been well documented and has reaped considerable success for the capital in recent years.

With a strong pipeline of new route launches lined up for Abu Dhabi’s national carrier, Etihad Airways, combined with world class projects such as the Louvre on the horizon, we can expect to see continued growth in the number of leisure tourists visiting the UAE

and Abu Dhabi in particular.

TAN: How is the market’s response so far to unique concepts as Al Yamm Villas on Sir Bani Yas Island and the Royal Mangroves Residence at Eastern Mangroves?

MK: The Al Yamm Villas will officially open in May this year. Given the beachfront location and privacy afforded to guests, the villas are sure to receive a positive response from the market. The villas will add another dimension to the accommodation options at Desert Islands Resort & Spa and judging from the feedback and anticipation of many of the guests, we are expecting the Al Yamm Villas to be a great success.

The Royal Mangroves Residence at Eastern Mangroves is the most luxurious and expensive suite of its kind in Abu Dhabi. We have had a particularly impressive response in terms of exclusive events which have been held at the Royal Mangroves Residence.

TAN: Anantara offers a set of activities to its guests, may we know more on that?

MK: All of our properties feature a signature Anantara Spa offering a range of treatments, while Qasr Al Sarab and Eastern Mangroves both feature traditional Hammam treatments.

Qasr Al Sarab makes the most of the rolling dunes by offering dune bashing, guided walks, camel trekking, archery and falconry.

While Eastern Mangroves offers guided kayaking tours throughout the mangroves and is also home to The Workout Room, featuring state-of-the-art gym facilities, fitness classes and a women’s-only

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workout space. Desert Islands Resort & Spa has expanded its leisure offering this year already, catering for both adventurers and history lovers alike. Activities include the famed nature and wildlife drive through the Arabian wildlife park, mountain biking, kayaking andmonastery/archaeological tours.

TAN: How was performance in 2012 and what is the potential for the year ahead?

MK: Performance for our properties throughout 2012 exceeded our expectations, particularly Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa which only opened its doors in June 2012 and reported a strong first six months of operation.

The Abu Dhabi tourism market has recently reported exceptional growth compared to 2011 with 2013 looking to be one of the strongest years for the region to date. As such, we are expecting strong performances from all of our UAE properties in 2013.

TAN: What are Anantara Hotels’ main feeder markets?

MK: Currently, Anantara’s key markets are the GCC, Asia, Eastern Europe and Africa. Traditional European markets such as Germany and the UK continue to form a significant market for us.

TAN: Knowing Qasr Al Sarab, Desert Islands and Eastern Mangroves, how is Anantara competent in a complete luxury travel experience compared to any other brand/destination?

MK: Anantara is the only luxury travel brand to offer 5-star properties in the city, desert and on an island, which makes us one of the only brands in the UAE that is able to provide a complete travel expe-

rience.

TAN: How is the guest’s feedback, in terms of loyal and new guests?

MK: The greatest feedback we have is the large number of repeat visitors to all of our properties. This speaks volumes about the guest experience and is the best indication of success.

TAN: A meetings convention centre has been opened at Desert Islands - can you highlight it for us?

MK: The conference centre is located on Sir Bani Yas Island, adjacent to Desert Islands Resort & Spa and was officially opened in December 2012. The Conference Centre features the Dhabi Ballroom that can cater to up to 320 guests banquetstyle or 552 guests cocktail style, as well as three meeting rooms than can be split into six break-out rooms.

It also features a business centre, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and both shaded and non-shaded outdoor terraces and expansive entrance and lobby.

The significance of the Conference Centre is that it enables us to expand our corporate retreat, weddings and MICE offering, which will in turn drive new visitors to the island to experience the Anantara brand.

TAN: What are the potential markets to be focused upon?

MK: At present, Chinese visitors are one of the fastest growing markets for us and, of course, one which we are looking to cater for to a growing extent.

TAN: What would be the ideal Anantara UAE itinerary?

MK: With so many different expe-

(Continued on p. 18)

17 ‘Hyatt Hotels have lined up a variety of special summer offers and a wealth of benefits this summer.’

—Mr. Vipin Khattar Area Director of Sales and Marketing Hyatt Hotels in Dubai Moreover, a 20% discount is available in all participating restaurants and bars, as well as the five spas, in all five Hyatt hotels to guests who book a Summer Special room package.

Mr. Vipin Khattar details the various promotions and activities lined up for families staying at Hyatt Hotels’ properties in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

TRAVEL ARABIA NEWS: What offers are lined up by way of discounts and value for families visiting UAE during the summer?

Vipin Khattar: This summer from May 16, 2013 to Sept. 14, 2013, Hyatt Hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have lined up a variety of special summer offers and a wealth of benefits which are guaranteed to make their summer stay relaxed, luxurious and memorable.

Our summer promotions include a “pay less, stay more” offer that give guests a chance to enjoy one free night on us when booking two consecutive overnight stays at any of the Abu Dhabi Hyatt properties, and three consecutive overnight stays at any of the Dubai Hyatt properties along with numerous other benefits. The summer promotions allow up to two children under the age of 12 with two paying adults to stay free of charge in any of the five Hyatt hotels in the United Arab Emirates. They are also entitled to complimentary breakfast, lunch and dinner when accompanied by two paying adults.

For example, in Abu Dhabi guests booking two consecutive nights will only pay for one night and guests booking three consecutive nights in Dubai will only pay for two nights and so on.

In addition, the five Hyatt properties in the United Arab Emirates offer an array of activities guaranteed to suit the needs of a wide spectrum of travellers when they choose to stay at any of the properties. These activities include complimentary access to the swimming pools, beach, kids’ clubs, and all other recreational facilities of any of the five Hyatt properties.

TAN: How can kids have the best out of the offers?

VK: With these summer promotions, parents will be delighted with the benefit that allows up to two children under the age of 12 with two paying adults to stay free of charge in any of the five Hyatt hotels in the UAE. They are also entitled to complimentary breakfast, lunch and dinner at the hotel which they are staying along with complimentary access to fun and entertaining activities organised by the kids’ clubs at the various properties.

TAN: Knowing the set of Hyatt properties in UAE with each having a signature character, how can guests enjoy the best out of each?

VK: Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi is an exclusive sanctuary for the discerning business and leisure traveller, located on a nine-kilometre stretch of environmentally protected beach on Saadiyat Island.

Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi is a premium business hotel located in the iconic Capital Gate building, which leans a record-breaking 18 degrees. The hotel is also a part of the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), the largest conference and exhibition venue in the Middle East.

Park Hyatt Dubai is a luxury waterfront retreat adjacent to the world-famous Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club. Located just minutes from the city centre, worldclass shopping and prime business districts, Park Hyatt Dubai is a haven of tranquil elegance in the vibrant city of Dubai.

Grand Hyatt Dubai is a perfect blend of city resort hotel and set within a lush oasis of 37 acres of landscape gardens featuring luxury hotel guestrooms and suites, residential apartments, 14 restaurants and bars and one of the most advanced conference centres in the United Arab Emirates.

Hyatt Regency Dubai features classic, contemporary design and unparalleled accommodation in leading business and group destinations. Hyatt Regency Dubai offers a knowledgeable and unique touch that welcomes business and leisure travellers alike.

ties in Abu Dhabi and both are strikingly different in terms of product and location. What could be the preferable itinerary for a family visiting Abu Dhabi this summer?

VK: Abu Dhabi is known as the cultural centre of the UAE. Travel here is momentous and activities range from a heart-pounding drive in a F1 car at Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World to the plush, world-class championship golf courses. For a cultural insight, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Corniche are of great appeal.

Families can plan activities around the major points of interest in Abu Dhabi such as shopping, sports and activities like Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, helicopter tours; as well as cultural activities like a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

TAN: In Dubai, Hyatt has three properties with a very diverse set.

What could be the preferable itinerary for a family visiting Dubai this summer?

VK: A family visiting Dubai will be spoilt for choice at our three properties in Dubai.

TAN: Hyatt has two properwww.travel-arabia.com

At Park Hyatt, families can experience Master Classes conducted by the master chefs at The Thai Kitchen, relax by the poolside or choose to experience a luxurious and relaxing spa treatment at award-winning Amara Spa. Grand Hyatt offers numerous fun and fulfilling activities for the whole family, which include enjoying the culinary experiences at 14 award-winning dining venues, many of which offer kids’ menus.

At Hyatt Regency, guests can choose to enjoy a Family Spa Break, tennis coaching, swimming and sports lessons, among others.

TAN: Now coming to one of most sought after attraction about Hyatt properties i.e. F & B and spas, what discounts are available for the families/guests travelling to UAE this summer?

Guests travelling to UAE this summer and staying at the Hyatt Hotels in the UAE can enjoy the following offers: 20% discount on treatments in any of our five Hyatt spas, excluding retail items 20% discount in all participating restaurants and bars located

in Hyatt hotels in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, excluding tobacco and retail items Complimentary breakfast, lunch and dinner for children (under 12 with two paying adults) at the hotel you are staying in Complimentary stay for children (under 12 with two paying adults) Complimentary access to all swimming pools, gyms and recreational facilities across the five Hyatt hotels in Abu Dhabi and Dubai A Shuttle to Yas Island (Ferrari World and Yas Water World with a stop off at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque if requested) is available from Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi upon request.

About Mr. Vipin Khattar Mr. Vipin Khattar was appointed to his current post on Dec. 1, 2011. A hospitality professional with over nine years’ experience in sales, marketing, and operations in five-star luxury hotels, Mr. Khattar has worked for leading international hotel brands where he gained a wealth of knowledge, best practices and techniques.

18 ‘Anantara Dubai Palm Jumeirah Resort & Spa will be the first Thai-inspired resort on the Palm Jumeirah.’

Mr. David Garner Regional Director of Sales & Marketing Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, Middle East DG: We are planning traditional Thai Tuk Tuk’s as our guest vehicles around the resort.

With Anantara Dubai Palm Jumeirah Resort & Spa’s scheduled opening in September this year, Mr. David Garner, who is responsible for reinforcing the positioning of the Anantara in the Middle East, gives us a glance of what to expect.

TRAVEL ARABIA NEWS: What value and hospitality will Anantara bring to The Palm with the place being one of the most sought after in world?

David Garner: Our passion at Anantara is that every guest leaves with an amazing story.

We work to achieve that through our product offering and unique experiences. Our new property, Anantara Dubai Palm Jumeirah Resort & Spa has been designed to reflect contemporary Asian flair. There are distinct Thai accents throughout the property in both design and what we plan in terms of service offering. The little touches are top secret at the moment, but they are unique and haven’t been seen in this market before and will definitely be talking points.

TAN: Can you give us a clue as to what these touches might include?

TAN: Competition on the Palm is fierce, what are your target markets?

DG: Our new 293 room and villa resort is a true leisure product situated on the East crescent of the iconic Palm Jumeirah. We are confident it is going to appeal to a wide cross-section of nationalities in the leisure segment including British, German and Russian travelers as well as locals from the Gulf. The combination of rooms, beach pool villas and over water villas provides a variety of different resort-style stays that each have a unique appeal, whether it’s the novelty of looking through the lounge room floor to the sea beneath in the over water villas, stepping into one of the 10,000sq.m. of expansive lagoon swimming pools from your room balcony, or feeling the sand between your toes as you discover the beach experience.

We anticipate the hotel will be equally well received by couples as it will by families. The recreation and leisure facilities are second to none and include three lagoon swimming pools, a children’s play area as well as kids’ club and dedicated children’s pool, gym, tennis courts and more. A variety of water sports and diving experiences will also be available to enrich the guest stay.

TAN: Will Anantara Dubai Palm Jumeirah Resort & Spa be a different property in terms of concept compared to your other Anantara properties and resorts in UAE and the region?

DG: Our existing properties in Abu Dhabi embrace indigenous elements in overall design and

service style. Anantara Dubai Palm Jumeirah Resort & Spa will bring something very unique to the United Arab Emirates for Anantara and our first showcase of Thai service and style.

TAN: What are the main attraction for the leisure tourists?

DG: We anticipate the beach to be very popular, but also our destination restaurants. While we cannot share the names of the restaurants as yet, we are delighted that we will have an Asian restaurant, an Australian Grill and a Mediterranean Beach restaurant among our five outlets.

Our iconic location with views over the Arabian Gulf, Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah will definitely add to the appeal for the leisure tourist. Equally the resort is located just a short 20-minute drive to fabulous shopping at Mall of the Emirate. Families and fun-seekers are expected to find our proximity to attractions such as Aquaventure positive. For the guests who are looking for relaxation and rejuvenation, the Anantara Spa, will offer a variety

of healing and soothing rituals.

scope of the spa.

TAN: Would it be a beach lovers’ haven or a place for the luxury traveler?

DG: In keeping with our brand, the new resort will offer touch points for guests to get the most from their stay, whether it be secluded luxury, soaking up the sun or discovering new experiences for the first time.

TAN: Will Anantara Dubai Palm Jumeirah Resort & Spa stand as the first genuine Asian hospitality on the Palm Island Jumeirah?

DG: Yes, Anantara Dubai Palm Jumeirah Resort & Spa will be the first Thai-inspired resort on The Palm Jumeirah.

TAN: Will the resort have a spa?

DG: All Anantara properties have an Anantara Spa and our new Dubai Palm property is no exception. The spa, designed by Schletter Wellness & Spa Design, is going to be beautiful and will certainly enhance the resort facilities and services for our guests. Visitors will be able to experience ancient wellness traditions from Arabia and across Asia, as well as advanced western techniques.

The facilities include 10 luxurious treatment rooms, relaxation areas, dry flotation beds, nail spa, hammam suites and so much more. You will just have to visit us to really appreciate the sheer

TAN: What lies ahead in terms of participation in the events, exhibitions, road shows?

DG: Anantara in the UAE is committed to continue supporting the tourism authorities locally, whether that be TCA Abu Dhabi or the Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing. We are attending all primary international exhibitions, tradeshows and sales road shows. ATM 2013 will be Anantara’s first exhibition where we will present our Dubai property to the trade and public.

We see relationships with our local stakeholders and tourism authorities as key to our success particularly when we look to new markets.

About Mr. David Garner Mr. David Garner Garner graduated with honours in International Business and Tourism Management; he began his career as a trainee of the highly competitive Hospitality Management Programme of Disneyland Paris.

He exceeded the property’s revenue targets in his first year with the InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) in the UK where he started as Corporate Sales Manager for the Forum Hotel. Garner also was senior marketing manager of Qatar Tourism Authority. In 2007, he joined the Emirates Airline Group as commercial director of the Emirates Hotels & Resorts division.

‘Performance...’ riences to choose from, it’s difficult to fit all into one itinerary – repeat visits are definitely required. But to whet the appetite of your readers, I would suggest the following action-packed schedule: Fly into Abu Dhabi international airport and check-in to Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa which provides the perfect base for exploring the city. Have drinks on our pool deck or watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand at Impressions Lounge, followed by dinner at our authentic Thai restaurant,

Pachaylen before retiring for the evening in one of our Kasara Suites with a private pool. Start the next day kayaking along the lush mangroves, before visiting Ingredients for a hearty breakfast and exploring the city.

Next, let our drivers drop you at Al Bateen Executive Airport where you will take a short 30 minute flight to Desert Islands Resort & Spa located on Sir Bani Yas Island.

Unwind on the stunning beach and take advantage of the many adventures and activities on offer which

include the nature and wildlife drive through the Arabian Wildlife Park (home to giraffes, cheetahs and Arabian oryx), diving courses at the newly opened Water Sports Centre or for culture buffs, the Monastery tour. Enjoy stunning views over the crystal clear water with lunch at Amwaj and sample a range of the finest seafood at Samak.

Following this, take the ferry back to the mainland and let one of our cars take you to Qasr Al Sarab, in the heart of the Liwa Deswww.travel-arabia.com

ert, nestled amongst rolling red dunes. Relax by the pool, or have a spa treatment at the renowned Anantara Spa. Make the most of the sand with a dune bashing drive or a camel ride through the desert, before enjoying sunset drinks at Liwan, followed by dinner at our signature grill restaurant Suhail.

Unwind in your expansive room or villa and rise early in the morning for a guided walk, before breakfast at Al Waha.

Never a dull moment with Anantara!

About Mr. Moritz Klein Mr. Moritz Klein began his hospitality career in his native Germany with several internships with Kempinski Hotels before moving to the UK to spend a year working back-of-house at the internationally acclaimed Claridge’s in London. Following his experience in the UK, Moritz then returned to Kempinski to further his experience at the Hotel Baltschug Kempinski in Moscow, Russia.

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20 ‘We are already very well established in the UAE.’ —Andreas Mueller General Manager, Cove Rotana Resort

Mr. Andreas Mueller shares his thoughts about Cove Rotana Resort, including the property’s plans and promotions, and how all this complements Ras Al Khaimah’s ongoing efforts to promote tourism in the emirate.

TRAVEL ARABIA NEWS: Could you give us a quick profile of your guests? Who stays at Cove Rotana?

Andreas Mueller: Our international guests come from Germany, Scandinavia and the Eastern European countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).

Depending on the time of the year, they are mostly couples and families. Our weekend guests are mainly from Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and consist always of families enjoying the privacy of our villas which have private plunge pool.

TAN: What are being done to attract leisure and business travelers?

AM: Leisure guests book predominantly via tour operators, and we actively market the resort with our partners by being featured in their brochures or in the digital media campaigns such as HTML newsletters. The Rotana area sales office has a team of sales managers, who in cooperation, with the Resort Sales Team, are taking care of the business and conference segment.

TAN: Are there MICE-related promotions currently on offer? Are there new ones being planned?

AM: Ras Al Khaimah has become a very interesting destination with plenty of activities, water parks, events, top class hotels, the Aviation Club, shopping malls and many more.

Thanks to its location, The Cove Rotana Resort is considered to be one of the most ideal gathering places for corporate executive retreats, team-buildings and out-

of-town board meetings. We are delighted at the growth of business and it has been very encouraging.

The Cove Rotana Resort offers some of the best facilities and activities for company meetings, incentive trips and team building exercises in Ras Al Khaimah from state-of-the-art conference and meeting facilities to varied meeting spaces, and exciting water sports activities like kayaking, jet skiing, beach volleyball, deep sea fishing, nearby Golf Clubs, and so on. We look forward to attracting more MICE business to our resort.

TAN: From which markets does the major share of your business come?

AM: Apart from our UAE market segment, Germany has the largest share TAN: Plans for any new markets?

AM: We are always looking for ways to diversify our market mix and to develop new source markets. The UK and Scandinavia are such mar-

kets and we are working very hard to promote the destination and the resort to the operators and the public in those countries TAN: Any plans to attract the GCC market as it is one of the biggest holidaymakers nowadays?

AM: We are already very well established in the UAE market. Some businesses are coming from Qatar.

The spaciousness and privacy of our villas are a great attraction for visitors from the GCC, so we will plan to offer special packages for our 79 villas to attract them in particular.

We will be attending major travel trade exhibitions in the world and offering tactical rates to attract clients.

TAN: Between long-stay vacationers and weekenders, where does Cove Rotana’s strength stand?

AM: It’s in the balance of the two.

We offer two very distinctly different products within the resort,

one being the room and the other being the villa type accommodation. Weekend business from the UAE book the villas while our holidaymaker guests prefer to stay in the rooms. Especially during peak times and long weekends this is closely monitored by our revenue manager.

About Mr. Andreas Mueller Mr. Andreas Mueller was appointed The Cove Rotana Resort-Ras Al Khaimah in June 2012. He has with him a tenure in the hospitality industry where he worked previously in South Africa, Thailand, United Kingdom, India, Mauritius and the Middle East. Mr. Mueller started his career in the Food and Beverage Division before moving on to become resident manager in one of the resorts in Bangkok which prepared the path to the general manager office.

Mr. Mueller is responsible for directing the overall management and operations for The Cove Rotana to meet the stringent Rotana standards.

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21 ‘We know the market very well, we are ‘2012 was one of the record years at homegrown. We know what it takes to deliver.’ the hotel with revenues ahead of 2011 by 17 percent.’

—Mr. Rabih Melhem, General manager, Media Rotana Dubai

Mr. Rabih Melhem, a seasoned hotelier with 21 years of vast international experience, talks to Travel Arabia News about a host of issues from room occupancy to Rotana as a homegrown hotel company faced with stiff competition from global brands laying stakes on Dubai.

TRAVEL ARABIA NEWS: Could you provide us with your assessment of the property’s performance in 2012 compared to previous years?

Rabih Melhem: Media Rotana had shown a satisfactory development in its occupancy with an increase of five percent in 2012 over 2011, and average room rate that was in 2012 nearly 20 percent above 2011.

We also had an excellent rise in F&B revenues, last year. We grew year-on-year by 28 percent, F&B alone. Around 80 percent of our F&B customers are walk-ins from different parts of Dubai. Media Rotana has five F&B outlets; our award-winning Prego’s the Italian restaurant; Nelson’s, a Victorian restaurant; The Terrace, a chill-out lounge; the all-day dining, Channels; and Connexions our lobby lounge.

TAN: So the challenge this year is to go beyond the five percent occupancy increase?

RM: We don’t make another step unless we are confident 100-percent in making that step. The budget set for this year is higher than what we have achieved last year. January was excellent for us so I think we are going in the right direction. We are going for a 16-percent increase over our latest results.

TAN: Where is business coming from in the area of room occupancy?

RM: Media Rotana, as per its location and proximity to the business districts like Tecom focuses a lot on two major segments: the corporate and the Meeting Incentives Conference and Exhibitions (MICE). Basically, a business hotel, throughout the week, we are extremely busy with business meetings being conducted. On weekends, we focus a lot on attracting people from outside the city, from the GCC, by coming up with many packages.

TAN: How is Dubai now as a destination?

RM: After the recession (in 20092010), Dubai somehow positioned itself in a, very strong spot worldwide. Before, Dubai appeared to be an expensive city to visit. Now, the government is positioning Dubai in a more competitive way by doing diversified promotions.

Back in 2007 and 2008, you have travellers coming and you ask them, “Are you here on a business trip?”

They’d say, “Yes. I’m on business.”

Ask them again, “Would you come on vacation?”

They’ll be reluctant to reply.

But now coming back for a vacation is not anymore a thought for them but a pleasure. Dubai has become more affordable after the recession and that’s why, it got back

—Mr. Karim Nahas General Manager, Rose Rayhaan by Rotana on its tracks faster than other cities.

Moreover, the airlines are doing a tremendous job in pitching the path for this success.

TAN: Rotana is homegrown. How is it with big foreign brand hotels all around you?

RM: It makes it more exciting, more challenging. It keeps us on our toes. We know the market very well, we are homegrown. We know what it takes to deliver.

For us, it’s what we deliver at the end of the day. If you don’t have the right team behind the property, then you can’t get the people to stay. It’s not the facility. It’s the genuineness of the staff mixed with the service and the quality of the product. And we have it.

TAN: Why do you think are these brand hotels opening in Dubai?

Why here?

RM: Mainly; because this region is still fresh in terms of tourism.

Tourism is something new to the region therefore hotels still have a lot to reach out for. Ras Al Khaimah, for instance, is another undiscovered area.

Hotels open in Dubai because the return on investment is good!

TAN: Where are you going this year for new markets?

RM: South America—it is a very interesting place to start expanding for our weekend leisure packages.

TAN: Hotel apartments that have been sprouting everywhere in the city? Don’t they pose a challenge to hotels?

RM: Hotel apartments have different clienteles and target markets; mainly their focus is on the longstayers. Hotel apartments are very limited in terms of facilities like meeting rooms and services towards corporate traveler.

About Mr. Rabih Melhem: The route that Mr. Melhem has taken speaks for itself. He started his career with Hyatt hotels and resorts after achieving eight years of Food & Beverage experience. Mr. Melhem’s years of experience in the Middle East and USA has set him up to successfully lead the hotel’s team in the evolutionary and challenging Dubai market.

Michel Noblet...

the environment will be central to any plan. Themed hotels are growing in popularity too. You could have hotels for bachelors, ladies, or sportsmen. You could live like a Tarzan or a Batman. You can have spiritual hotels or hotel and hospital combined together. At the same time our industry is definitely moving towards more mid-market hotels”.

Last but not the least, Mr. Noblet emphasizes the significance of training in hospitality, “Though every individual has something unique to offer, admit you don’t know it all. The real secret to success in our industry is providing the best ‘guest experience’. That often translates to how a staff member caters to a guest’s needs, which, in turn, depends on how well he /

she is trained. Training is one of the biggest challenges facing our industry today. Therefore, it is absolutely essential to invest in training of your staff.”

Ask Mr. Noblet what success means to him and he says, “Real success is your inner accomplishment. I believe life is change, change is life. For me it’s been 50 years of vacation.” www.travel-arabia.com

and dinner and, of course, splendid views from their hotel rooms . The location of the hotel a few meters away from the Metro station with very fast access to Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates is an additional convenience.

Mr. Karim Nahas tells Travel Arabia News what’s in store at Rose Rayhaan by Rotana, the tallest hotel in Dubai, the most sought after international city in the world, for family holiday makers. He likewise shares the hotel’s plans ahead.

TRAVEL ARABIA NEWS: How would you define the Rose Rayhaan brand by Rotana? How has the response been so far?

Karim Nahas: Our Rayhaan brand is largely liked by our customers because of its simplicity, respect of local culture along with the warmth of hospitality we are renowned of.

TAN: Knowing Rose Rayhaan is a family-friendly hotel, what are the services and facilities that the property has in this regard KN: Our rooms, which are all equipped with a kitchenette, freezer and coffee machines, are very suitable for guests. The variety of room types we offer, ranging from family rooms to connected rooms and suites, gives our guests a large flexibility when booking the Rose Rayhaan by Rotana.

TAN: How do you define the prestige that Rose Rayhaan by Rotana enjoys being the tallest hotel in one most sought city in the world?

KN: This was an exceptional highlight of the hotel that put us ahead of competition, many guests enjoy being on a high floor admiring Dubai from the top . This iconic tool helped us tremendously in marketing the hotel during the opening phase.

TAN: What attractions and leisure activities can a family from Rose Rayhaan?

KN: Guests with families can enjoy the relaxing pool with open views, an excellent variety of buffet offerings for breakfast, lunch

TAN: Knowing you have a number of suites/apartments types as well as recreation and leisure facilities, what is the competitor set of the property?

KN: We are competing with Crown Plaza, Radisson, Four Points, Emirates Grand and Novotel.

TAN: What could be the preferred itinerary for a family guest staying at Rose Rayhaan?

KN: Most guests with family prefer to visit the famous malls of Dubai, the water parks, the Dubai Marina, JBR and its beaches, the old Souk, Desert Safaris, Knowledge Village and many more attractions Dubai has to offer. We have also witnessed more and more guests on over day trips to Ferrari Park in Abu Dhabi.

TAN: What are your feeder markets?

KN: The main feeder markets are Saudi Arabia, UAE, UK, India, Germany, USA, South Africa.

TAN: Potential markets?

KN: Australia, Brazil, China.

TAN: Future plans?

KN: We will be starting our new Club Rotana Executive floor that should be operational by next November. We will be renovating the swimming pool floor and revamp our gymnasium and spa treatment rooms.

TAN: How has the hotel’s performance been?

KN: 2012 was one of the record years at the hotel with revenues ahead of 2011 by 17 percent. We forecast to grow with the same pace in 2013.

About Mr. Karim Nahas Mr. Karim Nahas started his hotel career in December 1989 as front desk agent at Cairo Ramses Hilton for two years before moving on to Hilton Fayrouz Sharm El Sheikh at the Front Office department. He worked his way through till becoming Rooms Division Manager. His first General Manager position was at the Hilton Nuweiba Resort in south Sinai.

22 What’s hot in Middle East travel technology – top 5 trends Travel technology is moving forward at an incredible pace. As the modern Middle East traveler becomes more technology-savvy, travel providers in the region have to continuously look for new ways to offer their customers more choice, a comprehensive range of content and a better shopping experience.

In this edition of Travel Arabia News, Travelport – the leading Rabih Saab, Travelport President and provider of critical transaction Managing Director, Middle East and Africa. processing solutions and data for the global travel industry – gives its take on the top five technology trends shaping the travel industry at the moment.

Travelport has been working closely with travel agents in the Middle East for more than 20 years. Comprised of the Global Distribution System (GDS), which includes the Galileo and Worldspan products, and Airline IT, which provides business and data analysis solution for airlines, Travelport maintains a firm grip on the travel industry and its latest developments.

1. Flexible airline distribution As airline products become more sophisticated, carriers are increasingly looking for their distribution and technology providers to deliver their products in a powerful way across all distribution channels.

To respond to this demand, Travelport has recently launched a pioneering new airline distribution tool called Travelport

Merchandising Platform (TMP).

TMP gives carriers unprecedented flexibility and unlocks new revenue opportunities, whilst giving agents the ability to offer a complete service to both airlines and travelers, as well as increase their expertise and productivity.

Specifically, TMP enables airlines to: • differentiate and distribute their full suite of products and services, including fares and ancillaries with complete con sistency across all channels; • distribute their content using whichever technology best suits their business model; • achieve greater brand consis tency by controlling how their product is presented across all channels TMP also enables travel agents to: • access the full range of airline products in their familiar and workflow • offer a better, more complete service demonstrating their product expertise to custom ers • maintain high levels of produc tivity and reduce training times.

TMP paves the way for significant change in the distribution landscape by enabling airlines to go to market with all of their products in the right place, at the right time, in every channel.

2. Growth in online travel A recent study co-sponsored

by Travelport showed that the online travel market in the Middle East is growing rapidly. In fact, the research – carried out by PhoCusWright – showed that online travel sales grew by nearly a third in 2012 and are expected to reach $15.8b by 2014.

To remain competitive in the online world, travel agents have to offer travelers more choice, a comprehensive range of content and a better shopping experience.

Travelport works closely with travel agents to help them meet these demands by offering broader content through faster distribution and sharing expertise so they can firmly establish themselves in this rapidly evolving industry.

In line with this, Travelport launched its industry-leading Travelport Universal API (uAPI) technology in the Middle East and Africa in late 2012. Travelport uAPI enables travel agencies to streamline the booking process by re-aggregating currently fragmented content from the GDS and other sources.

It also offers the broadest range of content available with full access to Travelport’s GDS air, hotel and car content, as well as High Speed Rail suppliers and Low Cost Carriers. As an open platform, Travelport Universal API works side-by-side with existing APIs, allowing agents to build

Trav Tech customised applications that enhance their online capabilities.

3. Increased use of mobile technologies Mobile distribution is definitely a growing trend in the Middle East. Thanks to the mobile revolution, travel is becoming more simple and streamlined.

Business travellers especially, who rely on speed and efficiency, are taking advantage of the latest mobile technologies to meet their travel needs.

With the rapid growth of smartphones and broadband technology, the GDS industry is presented with a unique opportunity to interact with customers in real time. Travel agents are responding to this demand, leveraging GDS mobile technology to relay travel information to their customers via mobile phones.

This means they can communicate with their customers more effectively and virtually at any time.

Travelport therefore continues to invest heavily in mobile technology to develop solutions such as Travelport Mobile Agent, which is an application allowing agents to access their Galileo Desktop on iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. Travelport View Trip Mobile tool provides the traveller with flexible itinerary management throughout their entire journey and includes useful features such as flight alerts, weather

forecast, events guide and others.

4. Achieving more efficiency for travel agents With the continuous growth of online and mobile technologies and increasingly technologysavvy travelers, travel agents in the Middle East are always looking for new ways to serve their customers and remain relevant in this dynamic industry.

Providing travel agents with the right technology that allows them to work more efficiently, is therefore a key priority for technology providers such as Travelport.

Travelport technology is already changing the way travel agents do business and its services and solution remain at the cutting edge of the industry.

For instance, Travelport Smartpoint App – the powerful upgrade to Galileo, Apollo and Worldspan Go! desktops significantly improves travel agent productivity and customer service. It significantly reduces keystrokes for the overall booking process by 15% and up to 72%, and allows agents to use point-and-click functionality across the board to search low fares, book flights, hotels and car rentals, manage queues and travel bookings, and more.

Universal Desktop, Travel(Continued next page)

Sami Nasser

who’s wh o

Senior Vice President for Middle East and Africa, Sofitel With a 25 year longstanding career working for parent company Accor, Mr. Nasser enjoys a wealth of experience in the hospitality arena, having held key management positions for various brands within Accor.

Recent Appointments

Elaine Nettleton Tricia Warwick

Stefan van der Kruyf

PR and Communications Manager for the Middle East and North Africa Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group

Van der Kruyf has been in the hospitality sector for over three decades, working with some of the most renowned five-star hotel companies across the globe. In his new role, he spearheads the sales and marketing functions for the launch phase of Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi.

A British national, Nettleton has 16 years’ experience of working in the UAE, with previous marketing and public relations positions held within the hospitality industry. Based out of Dubai, Nettleton will be applying her previous knowledge of the sector in driving innovative PR strategies.

Director of Sales and Marketing Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

Regional Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Europe, Middle East and Africa, based in the U.A.E. Tricia Warwick has close to 30 years expertise in international tourism and has held a number of senior roles in the UK including Head of Leisure Sales for British Airways www.travel-arabia.com

flights plus

Austrian Airlines takes off with new long-haul cabin

23

THAI’s Dubai traffic to Chiang Mai, Phuket increases

Austrian Airline officials at a recent media briefing. From right, Wilhelm Baldia, Communi cation head; Stephen Linhart, Director of Sales; and Karim El Sanadily, general manager Austrian Airlines

Austrian Airlines, investing over 90 million euros for the purpose, is converting its entire long-haul fleet and installing a new modern cabin: all 10 longhaul aircraft of the types Boeing 777 and 767 are to be given new, innovative seats in Business Class which can be transformed into full-flat beds and modern Economy Class seats, plus an improved in-flight entertainment system. The entire interior design of the aircraft is also being given a new visual, as Austrian Airlines reworks the color concept of its cabins.

“Austrian Airlines offers up to seven flights a week from Dubai to Vienna. From the Austrian capital, passengers can access 130 destinations in the Austrian route network, 43 of which are in Central and Eastern Europe. The new long-haul cabin is an important investment in the future of Austrian Airlines,” said Stephan Linhart, Austrian Airlines Intercontinental and Middle East Sales Director.

Around 1.1 million customers travel long-haul with Austrian Airlines every year, on some 5,500 flights.

What’s hot...

ing credit card payments in the Middle East is a well-known issue among the regional travel industry – especially where online sales are concerned.

Introducing much-needed payment solutions is therefore an important priority for technology providers and Travelport is working closely with its customers in the region to address this issue.

port’s next-generation booking solution, is currently undergoing trials with select clients in the Middle East and we continue to refine this innovative solution for the region.

5. Creative payment solutions Apprehension surround-

Passenger traffic from THAI’s Dubai base to destinations such as Chiang Mai increased by 54 percent between October 2012 and February 2013 over the same period last year, while passenger numbers to Phuket from the Middle East during the same period also increased by an incredible 60-percent increase, according to the airline.

As a relatively new destination from the Middle East, THAI offers daily connections to Koh Samui from Dubai – already recording an increase of 194% over the first months of 2013.

With a total of six Airbus A380-800 aircraft ordered, equipped with the most modern technology, products and services, THAI has entered 2013 on an optimistic note. The A380 is already operating daily between Bangkok and Hong Kong, Bangkok and Frankfurt and will soon As such, Travelport has introduced e-Nett payment solutions. eNett International, a joint venture between Travelport and PSP International, provides a secure and cost effective virtual card solution that ensures efficient payments. eNett’s Virtual Account Numbers (VANs), formerly known as vNett, can be used to make more secure and efficient

include Bangkok to Tokyo and Bangkok to Paris. After a period of extensive renovations, THAI’s entire fleet of aircraft offers a more comfortable and entertaining flying experience to more destinations than ever before.

Other developments in THAI include THAI Smile. Established in 2012 THAI Smile is a regional airline operating short-haul flights with narrow body aircraft providing services to pas-

sengers with connecting flights on THAI. Five new international flight routes were introduced on March 31, 2013 with THAI Smile – Bangkok-Mandalay, BangkokAhmadabad, Phuket-New Delhi, Phuket-Mumbai and PhuketKuala Lumpur; a total of 19 new flights per week. THAI Smile is for passengers who enjoy trendy, friendly and worthy service based on THAI standards at affordable prices.

payments to airlines, hotels, car rental companies and other suppliers. VANs eliminate the risk of misuse by issuing a MasterCard® virtual account number for each specific transaction.

This year, Travelport is also starting to roll out Travelport Rapid Reprice – its travel itinerary management tool for travel agents. Using Rapid Reprice,

travel providers employ the same technology used by the world’s largest airlines to research old and new fares and rules, and generate a new ticket in minutes. The automated process also eliminates costly errors that can occur when using a manual system and dramatically improves agent productivity through intuitive screens and a simplified process.

Explore the world of tourism www.lamadubai.com

Darin Davies

Mohammed Amin

Jaya Rao

Darin Davies is director of JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai’s Front House Operations. The South African national assumed his new position this month, taking over from Alphonso D’ Conceicao, Director Of Rooms at the Royal Plaza on Scotts in Singapore who held the position for 4 years.

Amin is a veteran hotelier and an expert in hotel management.

With 33 years of experience in the hospitality industry and counting, he is committed to achieving the highest standards. He has previously worked at various international chains including Intercontinental Group, Sheraton and Hyatt Regency.

Rao is a seasoned and popular personality in the travel and tours industry. AL Sultan Travels offers luxury custom-made trips from pre-selected destinations, accommodations, packages and tours to travelers and MICE clients seeking a different and extra-ordinary travel experiences.

President, Association of Front Office Managers and Deputy Managers of Luxury Hotels (AICR).

General Manager Al Fairouz Al Massy Gloria Hotel Madinah Saudi Arabia.

Director Al Sultan Travels

www.travel-arabia.com

LAMA TOURS & HOLIDAYS L.L.C Suit 8 & 9 First Floor | Al Noura Building | Tourist Club Area P.O. Box 51866 | Abu Dhabi | United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 2 67 70 877 / 64 42 844 | Fax: +971 2 67 19 224

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