UPFRONT

GLOBAL TOURISM GROWS IN 2021, BUT SEVERELY LAGS BEHIND PRE PANDEMIC LEVELS: UNWTO

GLOBAL TOURISM EXPERIENCED

a four per cent upturn in 2021 compared to 2020, with 415 million international tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) versus 400 million.

However, this figure was 72 per cent below the pre-pandemic year of 2019, according to preliminary estimates by the UNWTO. This follows on from 2020, the worst year on record for tourism, when international arrivals decreased by 73 per cent.

The first 2022 issue of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer indicates that rising rates of vaccination, combined with the easing of travel restrictions due to increased cross-border coordination and protocols, have all helped release pent-up demand.

International tourism rebounded moderately during the second half of 2021, with international arrivals down 62 per cent in both the third and fourth quarters compared to pre-pandemic levels. According to limited data, international arrivals in December were 65 per cent below 2019 levels. The full impact of the Omicron variant and surge in COVID-19 cases is yet to be seen, said UNWTO.

Slow and uneven recovery

The pace of recovery remains slow and uneven across world regions due to varying degrees of mobility restrictions, vaccination rates and traveller confidence.

Europe and the Americas

recorded the strongest results in 2021 compared to 2020 (+19 per cent and +17 per cent respectively), but still both 63 per cent below pre-pandemic levels. Africa saw a 12 per cent increase in arrivals in 2021 compared to 2020, though this is still 74 per cent below 2019. Middle East arrivals declined 24 per cent versus 2020 and 79 per cent over 2019. Asia and the Pacific arrivals were still 65 per cent below 2020 levels and 94 per cent when compared to pre-pandemic values as many destinations remained closed to non-essential travel.

Economic contribution

The economic contribution of tourism in 2021 (measured in tourism direct gross domestic product) is estimated at US$1.9 trillion, above the US$1.6 trillion in 2020, but still well below the prepandemic value of US$3.5 trillion. Export revenues from international tourism could exceed US$700 billion in 2021, a small improvement over 2020 due to higher spending per trip, but less than half the US$1.7 trillion recorded in 2019.

Average receipts per arrival are estimated to reach US$1,500 in 2021, up from US$1,300 in 2020. This is due to large pentup savings and longer lengths of stay, as well as higher transport and accommodation prices.

Outlook for 2022

According to the latest UNWTO Panel of Experts, 61 per cent of tourism professionals see better prospects for 2022. While 58 per cent expect a rebound in 2022, mostly during Q3, 42 per cent point to a potential rebound only in 2023. The majority of experts (64 per cent) now expect international arrivals to return to 2019 levels in 2024 or later. The UNWTO Confidence Index shows a slight decline in January-April 2022. A rapid and more widespread vaccination roll-out, followed by a major lifting of travel restrictions, and more coordination and clearer information on travel protocols, are the main factors identified by experts for the e ective recovery of international tourism.

UNWTO scenarios indicate international arrivals could grow by between 30 per cent and 78 per cent compared to 2021, although this is still 50 to 63 per cent below pre-pandemic levels.

UNWTO DATA AT A GLANCE

Global tourism 2021 415 million international tourist arrivals Up four per cent on 2021

Down 72 per cent on 2019 US$1.9 trillion economic contribution Above the US$1.6 trillion in 2020 Below the US$ 3.5 trillion in 2019

Middle East tourism 2021 Arrivals down 24 per cent on 2020 and 79 per cent on 2019.

The outlook 64 per cent of tourism professionals expect international arrivals to return to 2019 levels by 2024 or later

SAUDI TO SHOWCASE FIRST PORSCHE HOTEL

SAUDI ARABIA will be the launch destination for the new Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels brand.

Deutsche Hospitality and the Porsche Design Group are joining forces to create the innovative hotel concept, which will “bring together design, technology and lifestyle at the very highest level”. The plan is to open least 15 hotels in major cities globally, including London, Singapore, Dubai and Shanghai. Marcus Bernhardt, CEO of Steigenberger Hotels AG/ Deutsche Hospitality, said: “Our joint goal is to establish a new hotel product for a global target group, which seeks uniqueness and has the highest aspirations regarding quality.” No further details on the KSA property have been revealed to date.

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DID YOU KNOW?

Vegan meals are one of the most commonly requested special meals onboard Emirates flights and every January, the airline witnesses an increase in demand for plant-based meals. This is because of Veganuary – a global movement to encourage a vegan diet that runs in January every year. In 2021, Emirates served up to 10 per cent more vegan meals on its flights in January than other months and 2022 looks to follow the same trend, says the airline. Overall, Emirates served more than 113,000 vegan meals during 2021.

Expo visits hit 10 million

EXPO 2020 DUBAI’S visit numbers crossed the 10-million-mark in mid-January, according to the event’s organisers. From October 1, 2021, to January 18, 2022, the event recorded 10,188,769 visits, while virtual visits hit more than 65 million. Numbers in January were boosted by Global Goals Week, the rst one to be held outside of New York, and a starstudded K-pop concert.

Eric Cantona launches new football travel brand

ERIC CANTONA, the sporting legend and former captain of Manchester United, is launching a travel brand in partnership with DHARMA, an Abu Dhabi-based start-up that builds travel brands for the passion economy. “Our idea was to create the most passionate football trips on earth, with charisma and soul. Everything today is optimised for price – we wanted to optimise for passion,” said Cantona.

Looking FC (lookingfc.com) features four-day trips uniquely cra ed by Cantona himself that take guests on an immersive sporting pilgrimage to explore global football cities through the lens of the world’s most vibrant clubs and their loyal fans.

DATE FOR THE DIARY

Reed Exhibitions (RX), the organiser of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), has announced that this year’s four-day event will now open on Monday May 9, 2022 and close on Thursday May 12, 2022, to fall in line with the UAE’s new Monday-to-Friday working week. Taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the revised dates are also expected to complement international markets, the majority of which also follow the Monday-to-Friday working week.

Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh

Luxury living for the discerning traveller

As the capital and primary financial hub of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh attracts business travellers and leisure seekers with a wealth of opportunities. Catering to the lifestyle needs of these executives and elite travellers, the award-wining Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh presents a niche offering in the city’s serviced apartment sector.

It commands a prestigious location, amid two of the city’s tallest skyscrapers, just a five-minute drive from the renowned King Abdullah Financial District, and offers luxurious studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments with separate living and dining areas, a fully functional kitchenette and breathtaking views of the city.

A home for both short- and longstay guests travelling for business or leisure, Ascott Rafal Olaya features comprehensive facilities, with separate male and female amenities part of the offering. These include a stunning swimming pool and gymnasium on the 27th floor, as well as another swimming pool and gymnasium, children’s play area, residents' lounge, sauna and steam room and conference facilities. Those looking to enjoy a delicious fine-dining experience with family and friends are welcomed at two of the city’s famous restaurants, located on the ground floor of the property – Opaline and Don Puro.

As part of Ascott’s brand initiative to ensure the confidence and safety of its guests during the pandemic, the property participates in the ‘Ascott Cares’ programme and offers complimentary telecounselling services in partnership with International SOS. The property was also named ‘Saudi Arabia’s Leading Serviced Apartment 2021’ at the renowned World Travel Awards.

With the city currently bustling with entertainment options as part of the Riyadh Season festival, the property is inviting residents to experience the thrill of this event by offering a 20 per cent discount on direct bookings made at discoverasr.com.

Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh is managed by The Ascott Limited, a member of CapitaLand Investment. It is one of the leading international lodging owneroperators with properties across Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its portfolio of serviced apartment, co-living and hotel brands includes Ascott The Residence, The Crest Collection, Somerset, Quest, Citadines, lyf, Préférence, Vertu, Harris, Citadines Connect, Fox, Yello, Fox Lite and POP!.

FROM TOP: Accommodation is homely and spacious; The expansive outdoor swimming pool on the 2nd floor; Opaline

Marriott to open two luxury hotels in Saudi’s Diriyah Gate

MARRIOTT HAS SIGNED an agreement with Diriyah Gate Development Authority to open two luxury hotels as part of the Diriyah Project in Saudi Arabia. e Ritz-Carlton and e Luxury Collection properties will be located around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, set to become one of the world’s most forthright cultural and heritage cities . Slated to open in 2025, e Ritz-Carlton, Diriyah, Riyadh will feature 195 rooms and suites, a specialty restaurant, an all-day dining venue, meeting rooms, an outdoor pool and a tness centre. Ritz Kids, the brand’s signature kids’ club and programming are part of the vision, as are a signature spa and immersive guest programmes. e Luxury Collection in Diriyah, Riyadh (pictured), situated in the Samhan district, will open this year, o ering 141 guestrooms, including 27 suites. Two signature restaurants, an all-day-dining restaurant, a co ee and juice bar, tness centre, pool and spa, plus meeting and event facilities, are all planned.

JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh opening soon

SITUATED ON KING FAHAD

ROAD, five minutes from King Abdullah Financial District, JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh will occupy one of the city’s most desirable addresses when it opens this quarter. It will also be one of the tallest properties in the city, spanning 66 floors, with 349 rooms and suites and dining outlets including the renowned JW Steakhouse.

Saudi Arabia’s rst Rixos hotel planned for Jeddah

ACCOR HAS PARTNERED with Dur Hospitality to operate Saudi Arabia’s rst Rixos-branded property. e Rixos Obhur Jeddah will involve the upgrade and restyle of the current Makarem Annakheel Village, transforming it into luxury resort featuring a water park, swimming pools, as well as villas with private pools.

It will be the rst luxurious integrated resort in Jeddah, meeting increasing demand for this type of destination o ering in the city.

Located in Obhur Bay on the Red Sea, Rixos Obhur Jeddah will feature a private beach and 247 residential units, including 174 rooms and 73 villas, plus a Club Prive lounge, a ne-dining restaurant, a lounge bar, and two specialty beach restaurants. A central ballroom will cater to special events, complemented by meeting rooms.

Leisure facilities will include a tness club, a male and female spa, clubs for kids and teens, and several swimming pools. Beaches, a seaport, and a plaza with ocean views will also be part of the development.

THE RITZ-CARLTON AMMAN SET TO OPEN IN MAY

The Ritz-Carlton Amman Hotel is preparing to open its doors in May 2022. Located in a 20-storey tower in the city’s prestigious 5th Circle district, the property will feature 192 rooms and suites, eight dining destinations, 1,250-square-metres of event space, and an ESPA Spa.

Uber’s Lost & Found Index – what UAE passengers left behind in 2021

UBER HAS REVEALED its h annual Lost & Found Index revealing what UAE riders le behind during their 2021 trips.

It also highlights the times and days when riders are most forgetful. Unsurprisingly, phones and cameras were the most forgotten items in the UAE, closely followed by other usual suspects such as wallets, bags, and keys.

New to the list, however, books took over vapes as the eighth most commonly lost item, and extremely strange for the UAE, there was an increase in the number of people leaving behind an umbrella.

It seems that riders start to lose focus near the end of the year as December and January were the most forgetful months last year. Riders are also most forgetful between 8am and 9am on ursdays and Fridays.

Here is Uber’s full 2021 Lost & Found Index, along with easy instructions on how riders can retrieve lost items.

10 most commonly forgotten items in the UAE:

1. Phone/camera 2. Wallet/purse 3. Backpack/bag/folders/ box/luggage 4. Keys 5. Glasses 6. Clothing 7. Headphones/speaker 8. Books 9. ID/License 10. Jewellery/watch/make-up

Most forgetful dates in 2021

1. Saturday January 2 2. Monday December 14 3. November 29 4. Friday December 27 5. Sunday March 8

Most forgetful times of day

1. 9am 2. 1pm 3. 8am

Most forgetful days of the week

1. Thursday 2. Fridays

Most forgetful city in UAE

Dubai

How to retrieve lost belongings

If you do happen to forget a belonging in an Uber, don’t panic! e best way to retrieve a lost item is to call the driver - but if you’ve le your phone behind, you can log in to your account on a computer. Here’s what to do: ■ Tap ‘Your Trips’ and select the trip where you le something ■ Scroll down and tap ‘Find lost item’. ■ Tap ‘Contact driver about a lost item’. ■ Scroll down and enter the phone number you would like to be contacted at. Tap ‘submit’. ■ If you lost your personal phone, enter a friend’s phone number instead (you can do this by logging into your account on a computer, or using a friend’s phone). ■ Your phone will ring and connect you directly with your driver’s mobile number. ■ If your driver picks up and con rms that your item has been found, coordinate a mutually convenient time and place to meet for its return to you. ■ If your driver doesn’t pick up, leave a detailed voicemail describing your item and the best way to contact you.

WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH

The Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival (RAKFAF) returns this month, celebrating its 10th edition. Themed ‘The Journey’, the event, which kicks o on February 4 at 8.30pm and runs until March 31, will share artist interpretations of what this theme means to them in terms of ancestry, migration, national identity and personal growth. The historic Al Jazirah Al Hamra pearling village plays host to the festival for the third year running, while satellite exhibition sites will pop up across some of the emirate’s most iconic locations including the public viewing deck at the UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Jais and the Open Park on Al Marjan Island. The free-to-attend outdoor exhibition of art, photography and sculpture will present a diverse collection of artworks from more than 150 artists representing 45 countries, as well as film screenings, workshops and guided tours. rakfinearts.ae

Exclusive paintings, sculptures, photography and timepieces from award-winning international artists.

Painting by Fatima Sherjan Fatima Sherjan

Photograph by Yousif Alharmoodi Yousif Alharmoodi

The Arabian Falcon Navigator Clock – Limited Edition by David Galbraith

e great winter escape

Travellers from the UAE are hoping to head abroad this winter to make up for a lack of summer holidays over the past two years. Furthermore, most would like to go away with their wider family to make up for time apart, according to research from travel loyalty programme Marriott Bonvoy. The figures reveal: ■ 83 per cent want to go on a winter holiday this year, and for 19 per cent, this would be the first time ■ 87 per cent say they would like to ■ travel to a di erent country Just 24 per cent of those planning to go away say they usually go on a ■ winter holiday 32 per cent say they plan to go away because they couldn’t over the ■ summer 36 per cent are want to ‘binge’ on holidays to make up for not going away during the pandemic ■ 87 per cent are hoping to go away with their wider family, most to make ■ up for time apart Turkey (9 per cent), Egypt (eight per cent) and the Maldives (7 per cent) are the key destinations travellers from the UAE would like to head to this winter.

The research is taken from Marriott Bonvoy’s Joy of Travel report, conducted amongst 14,000 consumers in Europe and the Middle East.

14 KEMPINSKI TO MANAGE WORLD’S FIRST FLOATING SEA PALACE RESORT IN DUBAI

TUCKED AWAY ON BANG KRACHAO,

a protected jungle-clad island on the Chao Praya River, known locally as the ‘Green Lung’ of Bangkok, ailand, is the new RAKxa Fully Integrative Wellness & Medical Retreat. Here, advanced medical treatments, revered holistic therapies and renowned ai hospitality come together in a worldclass medical destination. RAKxa’s unique concept curates personalised one-to-14-day programmes based on real results using cutting-edge technology.

e RAKxa experience, which begins at home and carries on long a er you leave, involves certi ed medical doctors and holistic therapists prescribing a precise treatment plan based on one of the 10 packages available. Programmes span all areas of health and wellness such as Facial and Body Solution, Gut Health, Immunity Booster, Long Covid, Weight Management, Facial Solution and De-Stress. Completing the wellness journey is a high-tech medical gym with Olympic athlete training equipment, hydrothermal spa facilities, an anti-in ammatory food philosophy, a cleansing tea lounge, and an enticing menu of workshops and activities. e retreat features just 60 private pool and garden villas and two residences.

WOW VENUE

SKY-HIGH BREAKFASTS AT AURA SKYPOOL AURA SKYPOOL, the world’s first and highest 360-degree infinity pool, has launched a ‘Rise & Shine’ menu, available daily between 10am and 11.30am. Suspended 200 metres in the air, diners can experience breakfast in the sky, choosing from the Asian Brunch Bowl, comprising a poached egg, kimchi, avocado and seeded cracker; Granola & Yoghurt Bowl, with mixed berries and fruit; or a Blueberry Acai Bowl. Guests can also enjoy AURA’s twist on avocado on toast or treat themselves to a Japanese Pancake, oozing caramel and vanilla Chantilly. Beverages include two types of cocktails – the ‘Bloody AURA’ and ‘Cala Mosa’ – or a range of healthy smoothies. AURA SKYPOOL is the place to impress and is definitely Insta-worthy.

Marriott o ers US guests travel insurance

Marriott International has partnered with Allianz Partners to sell insurance plans on its website and iOS version of the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app – the service will launch on the Android version of the app next year. Guests can purchase insurance when they select their hotel in the US, which is added to the total cost of their stay.

London City rebound

London City airport “expects pent-up passenger demand to fuel a surge in growth in 2022”, with more than three quarters of its 2019 routes operating this year. Business travel is picking up, accounting for 46 per cent of all journeys in October and November 2021, it said.

Second Curio Collection hotel for Portugal

Hilton has opened its second Curio Collection property in Portugal, and the first in the country’s capital, Lisbon. The 67-room Emerald House Lisbon on Rua das Janelas Verdes is located in a restored building next to the National Museum of Ancient Art and features the A Mesa restaurant, Five O’Clock Bar, three meeting spaces and a fitness centre.

Rosewood makes it Brazil debut

Rosewood Hotels and Resorts has opened its first property in Brazil. Rosewood Sao Paulo, featuring 160 rooms and 100 branded residences, is situated within Cidade Matarazzo, a complex of early 20th century buildings transformed into private residences, high-end stores and entertainment venues.

Seven more for Mama

Seven new Mama Shelter properties will open by the end of 2023, with launches in Lisbon, Paris and Dubai due this year. Mama Dubai will o er 197 rooms and 192 apartments in Business Bay.

New Radisson airport hotel

The 471-room Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport has opened its doors o ering duplex suites, plus three-bedroom villas with a private pool, separate living area and a dining area with fully equipped kitchen. Business facilities include 11 meeting rooms and a soon-toopen 1,800 sqm auditorium.

Luxury North Africa trio for Accor

Accor will open three luxury properties in Morocco this year: the Fairmont La Marina RabatSalé with hotel and riverside residences; the Fairmont Tangier Tazi Palace with 134 guestrooms, two VIP villas and a Royal villa; and Sofitel Agadir Royal Bay Resort, blending French luxury, Kasbah architecture and beachfront style.

GLOBAL NEWS

MO Shenzhen now open

The 178-room Mandarin Oriental Shenzhen has opened on the upper floors of a 79-storey tower in the city’s Futian business district. Facilities include a 78th floor Mandarin Club and eight dining venues including a finedining Cantonese restaurant by Michelin-starred Chef Fei.

Zuma makes waves in the Maldives

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has debuted world-renowned contemporary Japanese concept,

Zuma. An island bar, robata and sushi counter take centre stage at the restaurant, which has Indian Ocean views.

Qantas reboots Perth-London route

Qantas will restart its daily non-stop service between Perth and London from March 27. The 14,498km route is the fastest way to travel to Australia from London and is served by the B787 Dreamliner.