Arab & Turkish Travel Magazine May 2018

MAY 2018

Trabzon and Rize where the Arabs love

News from Arab countries New TURSAB President after 18 years ATM to showcase largest ever hotel exhibition space

In this issue Cover story

26 Trabzon and Rize where the Arabs love

News from Arab Market

6 ATM to showcase largest ever hotel exhibition space

New TURSAB President after 18 years

MAY 2018 4 | Arab & Turkis Travel Magazine | May 2018

Arab & Turkish Travel Magazine Prepared by S&M Publication Ltd. ART DIRECTOR: Özgür Töre HEAD OFFICE: S&M PUBLICATION LTD. Muratreis mah. Muradiye Mektep Sokak 13/1 Baglarbasi Istanbul-TURKEY Tel:+90.216.391 3795 www.arabturkishtravel.com ALL EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES TO suat@arabturkishtravel.com - ozgur@arabturkishtravel.com

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News From Arab Market Algeria Algeria turns to tourism Algeria, much like the UAE, is courting tourism and hotel investment to compensate for falling oil revenue—and global companies are taking note. The oil and gas sector has been the backbone of Algeria's economy, accounting for about 35 percent of the gross domestic product, and two-thirds of total exports.

According to OPEC, Algeria was ranked 18th among global oil producers in 2016 at 1,348,361 barrels per day.

But the oil downturn took its toll on the country. Over the past year, Algeria’s crude oil production fell from 1,091,000 barrels per day in January 2017 to 997,000 barrels per day in October. By December 2017, it was up to 1,037,000 barrels per day—an improvement, but not where it had been a year before.

With oil prices still uncertain, the country is turning to tourism to keep its GDP afloat—and it has plenty to offer visitors and investors alike. “Located a short distance from Europe, and with a large and comparatively wealthy population of its own, Algeria is primed to make use of its significant tourism potential,” the Oxford Business Group said in its latest report on Algeria's tourism sector.

“Though the industry remains underdeveloped, particularly in regards to the number of hotel rooms and the cumbersome visa regime, foreign business tourism and niche areas such as spa, desert and ecotourism have strong scope for growth.”

The Algerian government’s National Tourism Development plan intends to attract more foreign visitors to the country by 2027, bringing the total to 4.4 million from 2.7 million last year. The government has committed to developing the infrastructure needed to support this goal, which has become more pressing as the oil price wavers.

In December, the minister of tourism, Hacène Mermouri, said that the ministry had approved 1,812 new hotel projects as part of a plan to bring the country’s capacity from 100,000 guestrooms to 240,000. Of those projects, the minister said that 582 rooms were already under construction.

Bahrain F1 boosts Bahrain’s tourism, hospitality sectors The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) revealed that hotel revenues have increased during the 2018 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix with more than 23,000 hotel rooms booked and the total occupancy rate of five-star hotels reaching up to 90%.

"On behalf of the BTEA, I would like to extend my congratulations on the success of Bahrain hosting the 2018 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious international sporting events held in the Kingdom since 2004. The international event showcases the Kingdom’s ability to host leading 6 | Arab & Turkis Travel Magazine | May 2018

News From Arab Market global events," said the Chief Executive Officer of BTEA, H.E. Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa.

"The Formula One season significantly contributes to the national economy and strengthens the Kingdom's position on the international tourism and sports map as it attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. We look forward to hosting the upcoming Grand Prix," he added.

In line with its strategy to promote the Kingdom’s touristic offerings, the BTEA hosted more than 30 media representatives, social media influencers and representatives along with travel and tourism agencies during the Formula 1 2018 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix through its representative offices.

On the sidelines of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, the BTEA also organized the ‘Hurafuna’ Handicrafts Festival in Bab Al Bahrain bringing together local handicraftsmen alongside a group of craftsmen from the Republic of Egypt. The festival offered residents and visitors an opportunity to learn about the Kingdom’s handicrafts.

BTEA’s tourism strategy aims to highlight the Kingdom’s tourism infrastructure and offering in order to further attract tourists and visitors from all over the world, as well as promote Bahrain as an ideal family tourist destination endorsed by all representative offices.

An appointment at Bahrain Radisson Blu Hotel The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Bahrain has appointed Hasan Barakat as the new Director of Sales & Marketing for the property. Hasan, a British / Jordanian national, is a dynamic hotelier with extensive experience in Sales & Marketing in 5 star hotel properties across the Middle East and Europe. His recent position was Group Director of Sales and Marketing KATARA Hospitality Qatar.

Kosta Kourotsidis, General Manager at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, said “It is great to have Hasan on board during such an exciting time for us. Hasan has a proven track record of delivering results without losing focus on clients’ needs and market developments. His commitment to people development and his skills will make Hasan a great asset to have in our hotel.”

“Hasan joined at the right time, as we are under a massive renovation of all our guest bedrooms and the hotel lobby. I am sure we will benefit from his experience to market and correctly position our upgraded property” adds Kosta Kourotsidis.

Egypt Egypt Appoints First Female Minister of Tourism The Egyptian Parliament has approved the appointment of Rania Al-Mashat as the country’s new Minister of Tourism, making her the first woman to hold the position and one of six women to currently occupy ministerial roles – the nation’s highest proportion ever.

Replacing Yahya Rashid, who took over the post from Hisham Zaazou in March 2016, the changeover is a result of a cabinet reshuffle, in which four ministerial posts have been filled with new faces.

Al-Mashat brings a wealth of economic and political experience to the role, having previously served as a Arab & Turkis Travel Magazine | May 2018 | 7

News From Arab Market senior economic adviser to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and as the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Egypt. She was the youngest person ever to hold such a position in both organisations.

She is credited with making a significant contribution to modernising Egypt’s monetary policy, particularly during the governmental reform programme post2011.

Al-Mashat attained a BA in Economics from the American University in Cairo in 1995 and a Master of Economics from the University of Maryland-College Park in the US in 1998. She then obtained a PhD in Economics from the same university in 2001.

In line with Egypt’s new campaign for 2018, the new minister is expected to capitalise on renewed and growing interest in the destination by implementing a coherent strategy of policy-making. She will manage cooperation with investors, placing a focus on marketing, as well as the training and development of employees in the tourism sector.

According to insiders, the first appointments with investors have already taken place, with all involved parties very satisfied with the opening discussions.

Egypt tourism revenues picking up With 8.3 million tourists visiting Egypt in 2017, the number of tourists who visited Egypt in that time jumped 54 % compared to 2016.

Egypt’s tourism revenues jumped as well by 123.5 % compared to 2016 to reach $7.6 billion.

The tourism sector performance is climbing quickly, aiming at its zenith of 14.7 million tourists per year who visited Egypt in 2010.

Thomas Cook Airlines takes off for Hurghada, Egypt Thomas Cook Airlines’ inaugural flight to Hurghada, Egypt, departs from East Midlands Airport. Thomas Cook Airlines carry 400,000 customers to and from East Midlands Airport to 18 European destinations each year and has two A321 aircraft based permanently at the airport.

The five-hour, 15-minute direct flight operates weekly on a Friday on the Airbus A321 until April 27th.

Flights increase to twice weekly (adding Tuesday) from November 2018 for the winter season.

Henry Sunley, commercial director at Thomas Cook Airlines said: “We are thrilled to add flights from East Midlands Airport to Hurghada this winter season.

Alam.”

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“Across the UK we have increased our seat capacity by 14 per cent to Egypt this year, flying to both Hurghada and Marsa

News From Arab Market Marriott welcomes guests to Great Pyramids of Giza Marriott Hotels has made its debut steps away from the Great Pyramids of Giza, as the company rebrand Mena House, a historic palace. “This is a significant moment and a milestone in our journey, a milestone that I am personally very excited about,” said Alex Kyriakidis, managing director, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International.

“With our long history in the country, a strong footprint and a robust pipeline, Egypt continues to be a strategic growth market and key to our success in the region. “Marriott Hotels has consistently pushed the boundaries to create experiences that inspire our guests.

“We are excited to welcome Mena House into our portfolio and offer guests a unique brand experience in this iconic location.” Set amid 40 acres of verdant gardens, this stunning hotel offers 331 plush rooms and suites offering spectacular views of the mighty Giza Pyramids and the surrounding lush greenery.

Guests can savour refreshing al fresco dining at 139 Pavilion, the hotel’s all day dining venue while soaking in breathtaking views of the Pyramids, indulge in an authentic Italian lunch at Alfredo or relax with freshly brewed coffee or herbal infusions at the Sultan Lounge. Either way, the dining experience at Marriott Mena House, Cairo is bound to be truly memorable. With its mesmerising location, signature services and bespoke experiences, a stay at the hotel promises to be a journey that will inspire new insights and make travel more enriching.

Marriott International currently operates 19 hotels with over 7,000 rooms in Egypt across seven brands including JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Le Meridien, Marriott Hotels, Renaissance Hotels, Sheraton, and Westin.

Iraq Iraqi tourists eager to visit Duhok after 3 years After the demise of ISIS and the reopening of the Duhok-Mosul road, tourists from Nineveh province flocked back to the astonishing tourist spots of the Kurdistan Region. Over the past week, some 8,000 people visited Duhok.

Before Mosul fell to ISIS in 2014, large numbers of people from Mosul often visited nearby Duhok in the Kurdistan Region. ISIS rule in Iraq's second-largest city meant that few tourists could make the journey. "I have been bringing in tourists to the Kurdistan Region from Mosul for a month now," Zeyad Mohammed, tourist company owner, told Rudaw. "Tourists call me on a daily basis asking me to register them for tourism."

"Just in last week, we brought in 5,000 tourists to Duhok," Mohammed said, adding other companies together brought in another 3,000 tourists. After final examinations of students, "the number will further Arab & Turkis Travel Magazine | May 2018 | 9

News From Arab Market increase," he presumed. Other tourists from Mosul like Mohammed Salim said, "Four years of our lives under ISIS rule were wasted. Now, we feel like we were just born." Sheikh Ihsan Brifkani, the head of the Association of Hotels and Guest Houses in Duhok, explained re-opening of the Duhok-Mosul road was a boost for his sector in the province."The opening of the road, after ISIS was defeated, was a great hope for the hotels and tourist spots," he said.

Due to three years of ISIS rule in Mosul, some 53 hotels had shut down their doors in Duhok, but now all have opened. According to Brifkani, 105 more Iraqi tourism companies have registered to bring in tourists to the province. He suggested that an estimated half a million tourists will visit Duhok this year.

Travel exhibition in Erbil Erbil held a three-day tourism exhibition in Erbil in May. “Nearly 203 contracts and different memorandums of understanding were signed between Kurdistan Region’s companies and foreign companies,” explained Mawlawi Jabar Wahab, the chairman of the General Board of Tourism.

KRG Planning Minister Ali Sindi encouraged tourism investment in a commencement speech at the Businessmen & Investors Conference: Germany-Iraq-Kurdistan Region in Hanover, Germany, in

early-September.

Kurdish officials have planned to spend an about $100 million in the coming years to revive and develop an industry that could deliver long-term profits.

Jordan Jordan tourism revenues to double Jordan's travel and tourism sector remains robust and with more and more investment pouring in, the kingdom aims to double the contribution the sector to the country's GDP by 2022. As part of its new tourism strategy, the kingdom will focus on widening the product base so that it can capitalise and leverage on its key resources, said Lina Mazhar Annab, the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, on the sidelines of ITB Berlin expo.

'We will identify a potential tourism site and vigorously develop it irrespective of its location as long as there is tourist demand,' stated Annab. 'Jordan is a wonderfully diverse country offering a range of breathtaking attractions. It is a country that is within a four-hour flight from most of mainland Europe, is renowned for its spectacular scenery, friendly people, excellent infrastructure and awe-inspiring sites, such as Petra, the new 7th world wonder,' she said. It has history, culture, ruins and natural wonders jampacked into a small country with great infrastructure. The people are friendly, welcoming and eager to show guests the best of their country, Annab said.

Unveiling the kingdom's new tourism strategy, Annab said Jordan has adopted a novel approach identifying promising tourism segments where the kingdom has a competitive strength and also where there is sufficient revenue.

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News From Arab Market 'We have a real competitive edge when it comes to adventure tourism, medical and religious tourism, in addition to MICE (Meetings, incentives, conferences and events) segment for which the country already has a full-fledged infrastructure and more investments are pouring into this sector for future projects,' stated the minister, citing the King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Centre, a leader in the MICE business in Amman being managed by Hilton.

It aims to cater to all segments of the MICE market, from incentive trips involving dune-bashing in Wadi Rum or exploring ancient Petra, to big association meetings hosted at one of the country’s modern conference facilities in Amman or the Dead Sea, said Annab.

As part of the new tourism strategy, Jordan has started activating tourism sites that are largely untapped.

'Besides this, we are also pumping in funds to develop new tourism projects across the country in line with our plan to boost tourist inflow and also help increase the length of their stay,' the minister said.

There are many tourist attractions such as Al Maghtas, a Unesco Heritage Site which is one of the most important biblical relics on the east bank of the Jordan River. Also, another tourist attraction is the Dead Sea and the unforgettable Aqaba, Jordan’s gateway to the Red Sea. 'Any trip to Jordan wouldn't be complete without a visit to Petra and Wadi Rum,' observed Annab Royal Jordanian increase security screenings on US bound flights Royal Jordanian started implementing the additional security measures required in October 2017 by the US authorities for US-bound flights.

The additional security measures- which include security interviews with every passenger at check-in or the boarding gate- are applicable on all international airlines operating direct flights to the US, and include all nationalities flying to the US, with no exception.

While they were required in October 26, 2017, the US authorities granted all airlines the option of delaying the implementation process for a limited period of time.

RJ passengers are still required to be at the airport 3 hours prior to their scheduled US-bound flights, in order to avoid delays and allow more time for the implementation of the new security procedures.

Royal Jordanian currently operates 11 weekly flights to the US: five to Chicago, four to New York and two to Detroit, with a connection in Montreal.

W Amman opens W Hotels Worldwide opens W Amman; its first property in Jordan. The 280-room hotel is located in the heart of Amman’s up and coming new downtown neighborhood, Abdali. “Jordan is an incredible country, rich with culture and a deep connection to its history. We could not be happier to make our brand debut in the country here in the capital city,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide.

“Amman, and specifically the exciting new downtown district of Abdali, is an ideal destination for the W brand with its engaging social scene and deeply rooted passion for design, music and fashion.”

Arab & Turkis Travel Magazine | May 2018 | 11

News From Arab Market W Amman marks the first hotel collaboration between Marriott International and Eagle Hills Jordan which will be followed by three more hotel openings across Jordan – The St. Regis Amman, The Westin Saraya Aqaba and Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Saraya Aqaba.

W Amman stands tall as a contemporary and unmistakable architectural statement, offering stunning views of the bustling city’s seven hills running across the Jordanian capital. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with the iconic W sign, inspired by Amman’s unique cityscape and cubic architecture, in the colors of Jordan’s distinctive sunset.

Each of the 236 rooms and 44 suites at W Amman feature floor-to-ceiling windows and vivid designs, along with W signature beds and modern bathrooms with rain showers. Pillows and throws feature an illustrative interpretation of the Amman skyline and an adapted rendition of beautifully adorned camels of the desert, both in colorful detail. The hotel features a range of suites including four WOW Suites and a 1,710-square-foot Extreme WOW Suite (the brand’s take on the Presidential suite) – the ultimate party place with sweeping panoramic views of Amman’s landscape, an in-room DJ deck, amplified entertainment system, and private jacuzzi.

Jordan and China to cooperate in aviation Jordan and China signed a deal on January 15, 2018, for cooperation in the field of aviation services.

The deal entails the regulation of aviation services between the two countries and gives the right for aviation companies to operate 21 flights per week for passengers and air freight instead of 7 flights per week. The agreement will also prevent double taxation and overlap on other taxes and fees. Chinese Ambassador to Jordan Pan Weifang said the ties between the two countries are witnessing rapid growth in various fields of economy, culture, health and tourism.

In August 2016, A delegation from Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) visited Jordan and signed a draft agreement with Jordan during the visit.

Kuwait Kuwait Airways organises sports day for travel agents in Muscat Kuwait Airways recently organised a sports event that brought together major travel agents in Muscat in a large gathering of the travel and tourism sector in the sultanate.

In an annual gesture, Kuwait Airways, through its office in Muscat, was keen to establish this gathering, during which the football tournament was held. The event brought together the 16 travel agents teams which was distributed in to four groups in a two-day competition. The closing 12 | Arab & Turkis Travel Magazine | May 2018

News From Arab Market ceremony was held under the patronage of Hamad al Fahoud, consular of the Kuwait embassy in the sultanate, in the presence of Amin al Haimi, Kuwait Airways, director, Sales and Marketing from Kuwait and Adel al Zadjali, secretary of the Muscat Club. The event witnessed a good competition between the participating teams from the various travel agents in Muscat. The event included many activities and was attended by the families of the players and the employees of travel agents in the sultanate at Muscat Club.

Haimi said, “He was pleased to witness the matches played by mostly Omani staff from travel agents and appreciated the participating teams for their enthusiasm in sports. “Kuwait Airways is keen to organise this annual gathering to travel agents in the sultanate to create a beautiful family atmosphere that brings together the families of the employees of these offices in a gathering to practice sports activities.

Morocco Morocco, a leading African tourist hub A new report issued by an EU-based online market research firm, ResearchAndMarkets.com, says that Morocco is one of Africa’s leading tourist markets. The report, “Destination Market Insights Morocco”, provides a detailed analysis of Morocco as a tourist destination. The report mentions that Morocco attracted 10 million foreign visitors in 2016 with an eventual goal of being one of the top 20 global tourist destinations.

The survey report notes that the country aims to grow the industry significantly in coming years, guided by the Moroccan Department of Tourism’s 2020 Tourism Strategy which aspires to “double the size of the tourist industry.”

The firm has also underscored the surge in hotel construction in Morocco. “Between 2016 and 2021, the number of hotels in Morocco is expected to increase by 30.8 percent,” as the number of tourists visiting the country rises quickly, added the report.

The report added that France is the largest source of tourists traveling to Morocco, accounting for 36.1 percent of all arrivals in Morocco in 2016. Spain was second, providing 14 percent of arrivals. Additionally, the firm added that France is the largest outbound market for Moroccans traveling abroad.

Seventy-four percent of tourists who arrived in Morocco in 2016 were from Europe, with the largest inbound markets being France, Spain and the UK. Last year January to October tourist arrivals in Morocco posted a nine percent increase over the same period in 2016.

Morocco has also begun to attract tourists from new markets over the past few years, including China, South Korea, Brazil, Japan and Russia. Highlighting Morocco’s top tourist destination, Marrakech, the report says that the city “is the most popular tourist destination in the country, comprising 34.5 percent of total overnight stays in Morocco in 2016.”

The ResearchAndMarkets.com report added that several tourist-related construction projects are being planned for the city, “including numerous hotel projects and a new airport which is due to open in 2030.”

The report is aimed at giving business leaders and potential investors a better understanding of the business, tourism and travel sector opportunities in the country, as well as the risks, to better support informed investment decisions.

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News From Arab Market Tourism in Marrakech breaks all records in 2017 2017 was a record year for Marrakech’s tourism. For the first time in history, the ocher city crossed the threshold of 2 million tourists welcomed in a year and more than 6 million overnight stays.

According to the figures of the Regional Tourism Center of Marrakech, the city recorded a growth of 20 percent of arrivals in 2017 and 18 percent of overnight stays, which allowed it to improve its occupancy rate by 4 points to 56 percent.

By market, the strongest growth was recorded by Germany with 56 percent, followed by Spain with 38 percent, Italy with a 28 percent increase, France with 19 percent, and the local market with a 15 percent

increase.

On the international level, Marrakech ranked 6th in the most visited cities by the French during 2017, according to travel guide website Routard which is based on the booking data of the Skyscanner site.

The Moroccan tourist capital finishes at the 1st place of the most visited cities by French nationals in Africa and the Maghreb, behind by Bangkok, London, Lisbon, New York and Barcelona, ??and ahead of Tunis, Madrid and Rome. The average length of stay of French for a short-haul flight is 6 days, while the average length of the long-haul stay is 18 days, reports the same source.

In fact, 2018 will see the creation of more than 13 tourism projects in the ocher city, which will reinforce the tourism offer at the level of Marrakech.

Oman Oman tourism arrivals to increase CAGR 13% to 2021 Tourism arrivals to Oman will increase at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13% between 2018 and 2021, according to data released ahead of Arabian Travel Market 2018 (ATM), which takes place atDubai World Trade Centre from April 22-25.

Commissioned by ATM, the Colliers International data, predicts the rise will be fuelled by visitors from across the GCC, who accounted for 48% of guests in 2017. In addition, arrivals from India (10%), Germany (6%), the UK (5%) and Philippines (3%) are also expected to contribute heavily to the growth, supported by new visa processes and improved flight connections.

Historically, the Middle East has been the largest source market for Oman, with arrivals from this group increasing at an annual rate of 20% between 2012 and 2017.

same period.

These trends have contributed to a spike in companies looking to enter the Omani tourism market, as demonstrated during ATM 2017 when the number of attendees interested to do business with the Sultanate increased 13% compared to the 2016 edition of the show. The number of attendees from Oman increased 18% over the

Accommodating the predicted influx, a number of major hotel chains have recently announced properties in Muscat, driving the 12% CAGR over the next three years; from 10,924 rooms in 2017 to 16,866 keys in 2021.

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News From Arab Market These include Muscat’s first Novotel ; a 4-star, 300-room Crowne Plaza; and the 304-room JW Marriott, all located near the Oman Exhibition & Convention Centre. Additionally Starwood is developing a 5-star W Hotel, as part of ongoing work at Muscat’s Royal Opera House.

In October 2017, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts strengthened its Oman expansion strategy with the announcement of a third property in Muscat, the 370-key Mövenpick Hotel Muscat Airport. Properties by Kempinski and Anantara are also under development.

Leading domestic investment, Oman Hotels and Tourism has committed to building 10 hotels across the country with a projected value of US$260 million by 2021. Supply in Muscat is dominated by five-star properties, accounting for 21%, and four-star, accounting for 24%.

Complementing its hotel pipeline, Oman has made significant investments in other tourism infrastructure, including airports. Expansions at Muscat and Salalah International Airports pushed passenger figures to 12 million and 1.2 million in 2016, an increase of 16.6% and 17% respectively and YoY growth to 2017 reached 18% and 24%, respectively. Further developments at three strategic, regional airports are also ongoing.

Bangkok Airways and Oman Air announce codeshare agreement Bangkok Airways (PG) and Oman Air (WY) came to a codeshare agreement, which will provide customers with an enhanced network to travel between Oman and cities in Thailand, commenced on 1st April, 2018.

kok-Samui.

Under the agreement, Oman Air puts its “WY” designator code on Bangkok Airways flights, serving 8 routes on domestic. This includes roundtrip routes on Bangkok-Chiang Rai, Bangkok-Chiang Mai, Bangkok-Phuket, Bangkok-Krabi, Bangkok-Lampang, Bangkok-Trat, Bangkok-Sukhothai and Bang-

This new codeshare partnership offers passengers enhanced connectivity and seamless connections to well known destinations in Thailand. Moreover, Oman Air’s passengers traveling on Bangkok Airways will enjoy the boutique airline’s unparalleled services such as lounge access and in-flight meal.

Qatar Saudi Arabia plans to turn Qatar into an Island Saudi Arabia is considering building a canal across its border with Qatar; turning Qatar from a peninsula into an island.

Saudi newspaper Sabq reported that planners are still waiting for official permission to begin construction of a canal, but the project could be completed in just a year at a cost of $750 million. Designs suggest it would be 60km in length, 200 metres wide and between 15 and 20 metres deep, cutting Qatar off from its southern neighbor.

The newspaper said that a 1km stretch of land north of the canal, bordering Qatar, would become a “military zone”, permanently ending land trade between the two Gulf countries.

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News From Arab Market This is the latest surprising move in the ongoing diplomatic and economic standoff between the two countries. In early June 2017, Saudi Arabia was one of four countries (alongside Bahrain, Egypt, and the UAE) to impose a boycott on most trade and transport links with Qatar. Their complaints – strongly denied by Qatar – including claims that their small but extremely wealthy neighbor had been interfering in their domestic affairs, supporting terrorist groups and drawing too close to Iran.

Qatar Airways increases frequencies to Muscat Qatar Airways will add two additional daily frequencies to Muscat, Oman’s largest city and capital, commencing 10 April and 15 June. The additional frequencies will take the airline’s daily services to Muscat to seven, and will meet the increased demand of tourists visiting Oman, as well as that of transit travellers flying via Doha to the Far East.

A highly in-demand destination for both tourists and business travellers alike, Muscat is known as a cultural treasure trove, with many lively souqs offering a traditional Arabian shopping experience. Muscat is also home to several magnificent must-visit landmarks, including Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Al Jalai Fort, Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace and the Royal Opera House Muscat.

The two additional frequencies will take the airline’s number of weekly flights to Oman to 70 weekly, including 14 flights to Salalah and seven flights to Sohar. The additional frequencies will also provide passengers increased connectivity to in-demand destinations such as Bangkok,London , Manila, Bali, Istanbul , Colombo, Phuket, Kolkata, Jakarta, and Chennai, to name just a few.

The additional frequency commencing 10 April will be served by an Airbus A320, featuring 12 seats in Business Class and 132 seats in Economy Class. This new frequency will be suspended during the holy month of Ramadan from 16 May 2018 until 15 June 2018 and will resume following the Eid holiday. The seventh additional frequency commencing 15 June will also be served by an A320 aircraft.

Qatar’s national carrier first began services to the Sultanate of Oman in 2000. In 2013, Salalah was added to the airline’s expanding network as the second destination, followed by Sohar in 2017.

Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia Travel & Tourism grew 4 times faster than wider economy in 2017 Travel & Tourism in Saudi Arabia is growing at a much faster rate than the wider economy, according to major new research released by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

The total contribution of Travel & Tourism to the Saudi economy in 2017 was SAR240.9 billion, once all the direct, indirect and induced benefits were taken into account. This represented an annual rise of 4.6% against GDP growth of 1% for the wider economy.

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News From Arab Market This shows the Saudi economy is particularly well placed to benefit from Travel & Tourism as part of the diversification of the economy under the Saudi Arabia Vision for 2030.

Other highlights of the report released show: Travel & Tourism supported 1.2 million jobs in 2017 (9.1% of total employment) By 2028 over 1.5 million jobs in Saudi Arabia are forecast to be dependent on Travel & Tourism Travel & Tourism contributes 9.4% of the total GDP of Saudi Arabia Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC, said “Travel & Tourism creates jobs, drives economic growth and helps build better societies. This is particularly the case in Saudi Arabia where our sector is growing at over four times the rate of the wider economy. This means the country is particularly well placed to use Travel & Tourism as a driver of economic growth and job creation within the Government’s Saudi Arabia Vision for 2030 masterplan to diversify the economy.”

“Globally, 2017 was one of the strongest years of GDP growth in a decade. Our sector now supports one in ten jobs on the planet and contributes 10% of global GDP. Over the past ten years, one in five of all jobs created across the world has been in the sector and, with the right support from Governments, nearly 100 million new jobs could be created over the decade ahead.”

Every year WTTC produces the definitive research into the economic impact of Travel & Tourism across 185 countries and 25 regions. A full list of reports can be found at www.wttc.org Park Inn by Radisson opens new industrial city hotels in Saudi Arabia Park Inn by Radisson, the upper mid-scale hotel brand of the Radisson Hotel Group, announced the opening of two new hotels in Saudi Arabia. The newly opened hotels are Park Inn by Radisson Hotel and Apartments Dammam Industrial City and Park Inn by Radisson Jubail Industrial City.

Park Inn by Radisson Hotel and Apartments Dammam Industrial City is well located in the heart of Dammam’s second Industrial City and just a short drive from Dammam city center, the Saudi Aramco oil refinery and King Abdul Aziz Sea Port. It has 201 rooms and suites with city and pool views, and 104 serviced apartments that are expected to open later this summer. The one and two-bedroom apartments include a large living room area, kitchenette with essential appliances and a large bathroom.

The meeting and events space have two meeting rooms and six workshop rooms – all with natural daylight and free High-Speed Wireless Internet. The hotel also has a 412 sqm ballroom for hosting banquets, weddings and gala dinners. The pre-function space spans to 530 sqm.

Park Inn by Radisson Jubail Industrial City is located in Jubail, the largest industrial city in the Middle East. The hotel is located in a residential area close to the offices of major international companies and just a short drive to the Fanateer District, which is a popular area with great restaurants, modern shopping malls, and a vibrant beachside. The 161-room hotel has a range of modern rooms and suites, all with a trendy design and either a garden or city view. Guests have a choice of standard or superior rooms and executive suites. They can even choose their own floor with its own unique interior design scheme.

All rooms include free High-speed Wireless Internet. The leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool and a health club including fitness gym, sauna and massage rooms.

Najib Erraiss, General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Jubail Industrial City comments: “The hotel’s superb location near the Fanateer District and close the city’s most famous attractions, make it an ideal destination for business travelers and families visiting Jubail. Our talented team is looking forward to welcoming domestic and international guests for a memorable stay with happiness guaranteed.”

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News From Arab Market Tunisia UK tourists to return to Tunisia after security boost Britain’s Security Minister Ben Wallace has praised efforts by Tunisia to boost security and said he expects a return of tourists from his country, two-and-a-half years after a terror attack on a beach in which 30 Britons were killed. “It’s been really impressive what I’ve seen over the last few days,” Wallace told reporters in Tunis. “I look forward to the fact there’s going to be lots more British people coming in the next few weeks.”

In June 2015, a gunman killed 38 people, including 30 British tourists, in a shooting spree at a beach resort at Port El Kantaoui near Sousse. The attack, one of three that shook Tunisia that year, was claimed by Daesh. It prompted Britain to impose a warning against “all but essential travel” to Tunisia.

In July 2017, Britain lifted the travel warning for virtually all of Tunisia’s Mediterranean coastline following “security improvements” in the North African country. However, it continues to advise against travel to southern Tunisia, along the border with Libya, and advises against all but essential travel along the western border with Algeria. In August last year, British travel group Thomas Cook, one of the world’s biggest tour operators, said it would resume organizing holidays to Tunisia.

Tunisian Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui said London’s decision to ease the travel ban “has had a positive impact.”

“The next season will see an influx of British tourists in Tunisia,” he said, speaking to reporters alongside Wallace.

Tunisia’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism.

Before the beach attack, more than 400,000 British tourists visited Tunisia annually. But in 2016, just 20,000 British visitors were recorded, official Tunisian figures show. France’s President Emmanuel Macron said he would push to double French investment in Tunisia over five years to buttress its faltering economy and transition to democracy.

In a speech to Parliament in Tunis, Macron paid lengthy tribute to Tunisia’s 2011 revolution, the first of the Arab Spring uprisings, and to its efforts to build a democratic system, saying they remained an example for a troubled region.

“The Arab world, the Maghreb, all the shores of the Mediterranean are watching you. They are watching you work and they need to see you succeed.” To support job creation, France aimed to double the rate of private sector investment over the five years of Macron’s term, which ends in 2022.

“A number of companies have already confirmed their willingness to invest,” Macron said, without naming any.

French direct investment in Tunisia was worth 3.3 billion dinars ($1.39 billion) in 2016, making it the second biggest foreign investor behind the UAE, according to figures from the French economy ministry. Macron had pledged more than 270 million euros ($335 million) in new financing for Tunisia on Wednesday, as he began his two-day state visit.

In his speech to Parliament, Macron also said France would put all its energy into finding a solution to the conflict in Libya and would push for elections to be held there by the end of the year.

Tourists return to Tunisia in record numbers since 2015 attacks Tourist numbers to Tunisia will hit a record high this year, fully reversing the damage inflicted on the sector by attacks on holidaymakers in 2015, the tourism minister said on Wednesday. After three years of shunning Tunisia in the wake of a gun attack on a beach in Sousse that killed 39 tourists and one at the Bardo National Museum in Tunis that killed 21, major European tour operators have started to return.

“We aim to receive 8 million tourists this year with strong booking rates from European customers and other new customers,” Tourism Minister Salma Loumi said.

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News From Arab Market Thomas Cook flew British tourists to Tunisia for the first time since an Islamist militant killed 30 Britons in Sousse. TUI, said last month it too planned to offer holidays in Tunisia again, starting in May. Tunisia has been an attractive destination for tourists since the beginning of the 1960s. Among Tunisia’s tourist attractions are its cosmopolitan capital city of Tunis, the ancient ruins of Carthage, the Muslim and Jewish quarters of Jerba, and coastal resorts outside Monastir.

The 8 million forecast brings tourist numbers above the pre-attack level of 7.1 million in 2014. Arrivals fell to 5.3 million in 2015. Loumi said tourism revenues would be up 25 percent on last year when they reached 2.8 billion dinar ($1.2 billion).

Tourist numbers in 2017 were already up 23 percent on the previous year to 7 million, as hotels filled beds with Russian and Algerian visitors, but operators say they spend less than European holidaymakers.

Tourism accounts for 8 percent of Tunisia’s gross domestic product. A return of European visitors would give a strong boost to the struggling economy and raise the country’s weak foreign currency reserves.

Turkey Turkish Travel Agencies have a new President after 18 years The 23rd General Assembly of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TURSAB) is held last weekend in Istanbul. The term for Başaran Ulusoy, who headed the association uninterrupted for 18 years, has officially ended.

A total of 3668 members attended the General Assembly at Istanbul Convention and Exhibition Center.

From the total 3622 votes, candidate Firuz Baglikaya received 2200 votes, Çetin Gürcün received 1057, Emin Çakmak 357.

28 votes were not valid.

Firuz Baglikaya received 60% of votes, while Çetin Gürcün received 28%, and Emin Çakmak received 9% of total votes.

New Board Members are as follows Executive Committee Members Firuz Barbaros Bağlıkaya Hasan Erdem Mehmet Nezih Hacıalioğlu İbrahim Halil Kalay Hacı İbrahim Canatan Ali Bilir Ahmet Özden Selçuk Boynueğri Bedirhan Bayka

Alternates Cüneyt Tansu Demir Murat Şirin Murat Karabulut Ayhan Eroğlu Aylin Güneşli Mücella Tarhan Cengiz Dağdeviren Özgen Uysal Hüseyin Kurt

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News From Arab Market Turkey opens new visa office in Beirut Turkish and Lebanese citizens no longer have to obtain prior visas when visiting each other’s countries, Turkey has opened a visa office which will issue a travel visa to foreign nationals that want to visit Turkey. Turkish Ambassador to Lebanon Cagatay Erciyes reported that all foreigners in Lebanon will be able to obtain Turkish visas through this office.

The new office could allow Turkish embassy staff to process up to 100 visa applications per day. According to the ambassador, the new bureau would be of particular importance to Syrian and Palestinian refugees.

Turkish Airlines Closes Airbus and Boeing Orders Turkish Airlines has decided to purchase 50 firm and 10 optional aircraft, a total of 60 wide body aircraft, of which 6 to be delivered in 2019, 14 in 2020, 10 in 2021, 12 in 2012, 11 in 2023 and 7 in the year 2024. According to this, a total of 30 B787-9 aircraft, of which 25 firm and 5 optional, will be purchased from Boeing and a total of 30 A350-900 aircraft, of which 25 firm and 5 optional will be purchased from Airbus.

Related MoU with Airbus was signed last January at the Élysée Palace, Paris , during Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s official visit to France with French President Emmanuel Macron in attendance. Also last September, during President Erdoğan’s visit to New York to join the United Nations General Assembly, Boeing and Turkish Airlines had announced a commitment to order 787-9 Dreamliners.

Commenting on the closed orders M. İlker Aycı, Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Turkish Airlines said the following; “Today, we’re pleased to conclude this process which will bring a landmark benefit not only to Turkish Airlines, but also to Turkey’s aviation, by firmly ordering these aircrafts to be added to our ever-expanding fleet. Goodwill agreements turned into firm orders; which we consider to be a very important initiative to meet our need for wide body aircraft at Istanbul ’s New Airport, which will serve as our new hub once its construction process completed. This great step, which will further strengthen our ever-expanding fleet for 2023, our Republic’s 100th year, and bring our passenger’s satisfaction to a much higher level will bring a great acceleration to the steady rise of our country’s flag carrier, Turkish Airlines, and will also be a considerable added value for Turkish Civil Aviation.”

Air Arabia to fly direct from Sharjah to Turkey’s Aegean city of Izmir Air Arabia announced that from 27 June 2018, it will become the first airline to connect the UAE and the Turkish city of Izmir with a direct flight. Izmir, which is the third largest city in Turkey, joins Istanbul , Antalya, Bodrum, and Trabzon as the carrier’s fifth destination in the country.

The flight will operate twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays, departing Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) at 21:05 hours, and arriving the next day at Izmir’s Adnan Menderes International Airport (ADB) at 00:50 hours local time. The return flight will depart Izmir at 01:30 hours, landing in Sharjah at 06:50 hours local time.

Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia said “Turkey is a country with a true epitome of a cultural crossroad, and holds history that is as tangible and accessible as any of its modern-day attractions. We are immensely pleased to announce Izmir as our fifth destination in Turkey. Air Arabia’s goal will always be to allow passengers the ability to explore new destinations through affordable travel options. This new flight to Izmir is an exciting destination for residents in the UAE and GCC to visit just in time for the summer holidays.”

Home to historic sites such as Ephesus and Pergamon, Izmir sits as a focal point of rich Turkish culture, history, and heritage on the Central Aegean coast of Turkey. Its swarmed bazaars, endless dining options, and an enchanting waterfront promenade cover sufficient grounds to earn it an accolade as Turkey’s city of life.

Air Arabia currently operates flights to over 140 routes across the globe from five hubs located in the Middle East and North Africa.

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News From Arab Market UAE Abu Dhabi hosts CultureSummit CultureSummit Abu Dhabi 2018 is taking place in Abu Dhabi’s Manarat Al Saadiyat from April 8 – 12. The unique cultural event brings together global leaders from the fields of arts, media, public policy and technology to discuss the role of culture in building bridges and promoting positive change in society.

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates becomes the official airline partner of CultureSummit Abu Dhabi 2018.

CultureSummit Abu Dhabi Steering Committee member HE Saif Saeed Ghobash, Director General of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), said: “As the world’s first high-level summit of leaders across the arts, technology and policy, convening figures from every corner of the world is no small feat. It wouldn’t be possible without the support and global reach of Etihad Airways, which in this case truly lives up to its mission of ‘Bringing the World Together.'”

The theme for the CultureSummit Abu Dhabi 2018 is “Unexpected Collaborations: Forging New Connections Between Heritage and Innovation, Near and Far, Creativity and Purpose.” The programme will consist of workshops, presentations, and performances by leading industry and culture figures from the UAE and across the globe.

ATM to showcase largest ever hotel exhibition space Hotels will comprise 20% of the total show area at Arabian Travel Market 2018, the largest exhibition of regional and global hotel brands in the history of ATM. Taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre from April 22-25, ATM 2018 will feature 68 main hotel stand exhibitors, including eight new brands, over an area of more than 5,000 sqm, in addition to over 100 Middle East hotels featured alongside their respective national tourism organisations.

Simon Press, Senior Exhibition Director, ATM said: “Arabian Travel Market continues to be the preferred route to market for many international and regional hospitality brands and the increase in hotel exhibition space in 2018 reflects the hundreds of new property and brand launches we have seen during the last 12 months.

“Over the coming years we will see these new properties prosper as millions more tourists visit the region for the first time.

The last 12 months brought unprecedented developments in major markets and the region is poised for further great developments in 2018,” he added.

The largest stands will feature A.A.Al Moosa Enterprises UAE, owners of hotels operated by Hilton, Starwood, Marriott, Taj and Wyndham; Intercontinental Hotel Group; and the Middle East’s newest hotel group, Roda Hotels. They will operate stands covering 185sqm, 120sqm and 100sqm, respectively.

Celebrating its 25th edition in 2018, ATM will also welcome some of the brands that were present at the first show, back in 1994. Including Abjar Hotels International, Abu Dhabi National Hotels Forte Group, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts and Taj Hotels.

As stakeholders in the regional hospitality industry, each brand has contributed to the GCC’s phenomenal rate of growth, which is driven currently by the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman.

Data from STR confirms the total pipeline of rooms in the GCC currently stands at 152,551 across 518 properties. The leading contributors are the UAE with 73,981 rooms in the pipeline; Saudi Arabia with 64,015; and Oman with 8,823. In percentage terms the largest increase on existing stock will be seen in Saudi Arabia, which is on track to witness 123.7% growth.

In terms of market growth, research published by Colliers International ahead of ATM indicates the hospitality market in Saudi Arabia will grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.5% to 2022, ahead of that of the UAE (10.1%) and Oman (11.8%).

The growth expected across the GCC and Middle East will bring billions of dollars in opportunities for the region’s key players. Helping them navigate the investment landscape, ATM has partnered with IHIF (International Hotel Investment Forum) organisers to deliver the inaugural Destination Investment Forum, which will take place on the Global Stage.

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News From Arab Market Discussion will cover investment drivers across the region’s top travel destinations with focus on who is investing, what assets they are looking for, and how destinations can attract investment.

Press said: “Providing key intelligence, insight and advice, the Destination Investment Forum is the next step in pairing owners and investors with operators highlighting the opportunities that will drive the next era of hospitality in the region.

The event will outline opportunities for private sector investors as well as providing a forum to ensure regional strategies for future development are aligned. A natural evolution of the core concept of Arabian Travel Market, our 25th event is the opportune time to introduce this exciting new addition to what is now a bumper edition of ATM,”.

ATM 2018 has adopted Responsible Tourism – including sustainable travel trends – as its main theme and this will be integrated across all show verticals and activities, including advice clinics and focused seminar sessions, featuring dedicated exhibitor participation. Running throughout the event, professionals from across the industry will demonstrate how, with the correct strategy in place, the tourism industry can expand its responsible credentials.

In celebrations of its 25th year, this year’s show will host a series of seminar sessions looking back on the tourism revolution in the MENA region over the last quarter of a century, while exploring how the industry will shape up over the next 25 years, in light of geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, huge technological advances and, of course, the increasing trend of responsible tourism.

Debuting at this year’s event will be the ATM Student Conference – ‘Career in Travel’ – a programme aimed at students and graduates. Taking place on the final day of ATM, this programme will allow students to listen to guest speakers and travel industry leaders. It will also help provide a greater understanding of the industry and potential career paths.

Following a successful launch last year, the second edition of the International Luxury Travel Market Arabia (ILTM) will return on the first two days of the show. International luxury suppliers and key luxury buyers will connect via one-to-one pre-scheduled appointments and networking opportunities.

Other popular features returning to the show repertoire this year include the ultra-innovative Travel Tech Show, Wellness and Spa Lounge and the Travel Agent Academy as well as the Digital Influencer Speed Networking and the Buyers’ Club.

The ATM Best Stand Awards are back for a fourth year and will see a line-up of top judges and visitors to the annual industry event acknowledge the design, creativity and positioning of exhibiting companies’ physical presence at the annual showcase.

ATM – considered by industry professionals as a barometer for the Middle East and North Africa tourism sector, welcomed over 39,000 people to its 2017 event, including 2,661 exhibiting companies, signing business deals worth more than $2.5 billion over the four days.

AccorHotels brings its luxury brand to Dubai DMCC has partnered with SO/, AccorHotels audacious and spirited luxury brand, to bring AccorHotels’ debut property to the Middle East and its much anticipated Uptown Dubai district. SO/ Uptown Dubai, set to open to guests by late 2020, will feature 188 rooms in addition to 215 branded residences. Inspired by edgy and bold architecture, interiors for the luxury property will be brought to life by the Rockwell Group, featuring modular and contemporary elements to elevate the SO/ Uptown Dubai as a beacon of energy, art, and entertainment at the heart of Dubai.

The disruptive art and experience-driven property will fully embody the concept of a Kaleidoscopic Utopia, reflecting Dubai’s urban charm with the hotel’s convention-defying, colorful and lively design concepts.

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News From Arab Market The brand’s debut was announced at a signing ceremony at DMCC’s headquarters in Dubai.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman, DMCC, said: “DMCC is excited to be the ‘first to say SO/’ by bringing the debut SO/ in the Middle East to our first super-tall tower in Uptown Dubai in partnership with AccorHotels. SO/ is a bold and innovative brand much like the spirit of Dubai and DMCC’s Uptown Dubai district. We are confident this partnership will bring a spectacular destination to market for our customers, at our premium super-tall tower set to disrupt the Dubai skyline as we know it”.

Commenting on the agreement, Sami Nasser, Chief Operating Officer, Luxury Brands, AccorHotels Middle East said: “Dubai is the perfect destination to launch one of our most sought-after luxury lifestyle brands, SO/, through our debut partnership with DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre). As a brand, SO/ encapsulates the spirit of Dubai, reflecting the city’s ambitious drive to reach unscalable heights, while celebrating the blend of cultures and experiences the city has to offer through its bold, avant-garde design, vivacious energy, and worldclass amenities.”

“The brand’s debut within Uptown Dubai’s first super-tall tower, a high-profile project similar to SO/ in its playful reinterpretation of luxury, will undoubtedly position the property as a landmark within an increasingly competitive hospitality industry,” Nasser concluded.

With dazzling commercial, retail, hospitality and dining components, Uptown Dubai’s first super-tall Tower, where Sofitel Uptown Dubai will be located, is set to become an iconic addition to the Dubai skyline, through its contemporary architecture conceptualized by Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill Architecture. Adrian Smith, an internationally known architect, designed the Burj Khalifa while he was Design Partner at SOM Chicago.

The development will also feature 215 glamorous SO/ Residences, located on the upper-most floors of Uptown Dubai’s first supertall tower. The limited collection of private residences is the first from SO/ to be made available in the Middle East.

Residential services will include in-residence dining and dedicated lifestyle concierge services. Residents will also enjoy access to exclusive private facilities including a MIXO residence lounge with Resident DJ, private fitness area and swimming pool. The residences will range from 70 sq. meter one-bedroom units to spacious 261 sq. meter four bedroom penthouses while offering breath-taking, unparalleled views of the Dubai skyline and the Arabian Sea. With six SO/ hotels in operation in Thailand, Singapore , Mauritius, Berlin and St. Petersburg, SO/ Uptown Dubai will join 10 highly anticipated SO/ openings worldwide within the next five years. SO/ properties flawlessly combine sophisticated elegance with the style, art, and energy of each hotel’s locale. Encapsulating a rebellious lifestyle experience, each hotel is an avant-garde masterpiece, integrating architecture and design as art through collaborations with world-renowned designers including Karl Lagerfeld, Kenzo and Christian Lacroix.

Jumeirah redefines the 3-star hotel experience with Zabeel House MINI The hotel group that redefined luxury with the opening of Burj Al Arab in 1999, has now redefined the more modest 3-star experience with its latest hotel: Zabeel House MINI by Jumeirah.

The first hotel in the new Zabeel House by Jumeirah collection is described as ‘Maximum Attitude, Minimum Frills’, emphasizing the focus on creating a playful guest experience that is friendly to the bank balance through stripping back the non-essentials that often drive the cost of a hotel room upwards. But with comfy rooms, smart service and inspiring design, that doesn’t mean a boring, feature-less stay. Here are the essentials you need to know before you book a room. Prices start at 280 AED, if booked by 14 June for stays until the end of September.

Location If you’re looking for a hotel close to the charming, historic Dubai Creek, then you’ve hit the jackpot. Zabeel House MINI by Jumeirah is in the new Al Seef district by Meraas, creators of family, couple and tourist friendly neighbourhoods across the city, such as Kite Beach, City Walk, and BoxPark. That means lots of shops, cafes and pop-ups on the doorstep, blending into the city’s past. [And it’s closer than you think, being just 10 minutes from Dubai World Trade Centre]

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Cover Story

Trabzon and Rize, where the Arabs love

TRABZON Trabzon, also called Trebizond, historically Trapezus, city, capital of Trabzon province, north eastern Turkey. It lies on a wide bay on the south eastern shore of the Black Sea backed by high ranges of the Pontic Mountains, which separate it from the central Anatolian Plateau.

Modern Trabzon retains much of its medieval aspect. The heart of the city is on a triangle of tableland between two deep ravines, with remains of an ancient Roman-built harbour at its base. At its southern end stands a ruined citadel. The city centre is enclosed on the east and west by walls that date from Byzantine times. The commercial quarter is centred around a bazaar and park in the eastern part of the city near the old Genoese castle of Leontocastron; east of this lies the harbour.

Historical monuments include most of the city walls, a part of the palace of the Grand Comneni, and several Byzantine churches preserved as mosques. Among the churches the best preserved and most remarkable is the church Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia), now used as a museum, which overlooks the sea just west of the city centre. The church is a domed basilica with superb 13th-century wall paintings that were revealed and cleaned during 1957–63. One of the finest Ottoman monuments is the mosque and mausoleum of Gülbahar, wife of Sultan Bayezid II (reigned 1481–1512).

Trabzon is the terminus of the most practicable route over the mountains from Erzurum. For centuries it was on one of the leading trade routes between Europe and Central Asia, and it prospered particularly after the 13th century, when it served as the chief port for Tabriz and western Iran. Its significance declined, however, with the construction of the Ankara-Erzurum railway about 1900 and the development of the southern Iranian port of Khorramshahr. The city’s later revitalization has largely resulted from improvement in its port facilities and communications. Trabzon is the site of the Black Sea Technical University, established in 1963. It is linked by air with Ankara and by steamer service with Istanbul.

Trabzon province is well forested and densely populated. The large variety of crops grown includes tobacco, fruits, and hazelnuts. Small deposits of copper, lead, and iron are worked.

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Cover Story Sights Trabzon has a number of tourist attractions, some of them dating back to the times of the ancient empires that once existed in the region. In the city itself, one can find a hub of shops, stalls and restaurants surrounding the Meydan, a square in the center of the city, which includes a tea garden. Within Trabzon Province, the main attractions are the Sümela Monasteryand the Uzungöl lake.

Sumela Monastery, The Greek Orthodox Monastery of the Virgin Mary, better known as Sumela Monastery, is one of the Black Sea's highlights. It has been shut for restoration though since 2015. Check the latest information in Trabzon; on our last visit locals were doubtful work would finish by the original 2018 reopening date.

While shut, you can still get views of the monastery, clinging improbably to a sheer cliff, high above evergreen forests, by driving the road up to the car park.

Sumela (the name is derived from nearby Mt Melat) was founded in the 4th century AD and abandoned in 1923 after the creation of the Turkish Republic and the 'exchange of populations'. When the monastery is open again, the main church, formed from a natural cave and built in the shape of an extended apse, is the high point of a visit here. It is covered both inside and out with colourful frescoes depicting everything from the Virgin Mary to the Last Judgement. The earliest examples date from the 9th century, but most are from the 19th century. Sadly, many have been defaced, some deliberately and in recent times.

The monastery's cliff-edge position is itself a highlight as well and the building has a mysterious, ethereal feel especially when mists swirl in the tree-lined valley below (most of the time) and the call of a hidden mosque drifts through the forest.

At the entrance to the Altındere Vadisi Milli Parkı (Altındere Valley National Park) there's a 6 TL charge for cars. About 2km further on are a shady riverside park with picnic tables and a restaurant. From here it's another 3km to the car park, up a winding, narrow mountain road (challenging at busy times with cars coming the other way).

There are waterfalls and a lookout point, from where there are excellent views of the monastery suspended on the cliff high above, en route.

Currently, with the ongoing restorations, the car park is the end of the line though you can get another good view of the monastery from the small Aya Varvara chapel just past the car park. An audiovisual presentation about the monastery plays on a loop inside the chapel. When the monastery reopens, it's a 300m walk from here along a very rough and steep trail to the ticket office and monastery complex, sheltered underneath a hefty outcrop. On the way to the main church you'll pass the remains of a 19th-century aqueduct, a guards' room, a library with a fireplace, a kitchen, a bakery and a vaulted refectory. Visit early or late to avoid the hordes of Turkish tourists.

The monastery is built on the side of a very steep mountain overlooking the green forests below and is about 50 kilometres (31 miles) south of the city.

Uzungöl is famous for the natural beauty of the area and the amazing scenery.

Uzungöl (Long Lake) is a lake situated to the south of the city of Trabzon, in the Çaykara district of Trabzon Province, Turkey.

Uzungöl is also the name of the village on the lake's coast. Over the years, the picturesque lake, its village and the surrounding valley have become popular tourist attractions. The lake is at a distance of 99 km from Trabzon's city center, and 19 km from Çaykara's district center.

The area is most famous for its natural environment. Located in a valley between high rising mountains, the lake and village at first appear inaccessible. The surrounding mountain forests and fog, occasionally enveloping the lake at night, also add to the scenery.

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Cover Story The tourist boom of the recent years has attracted investors, who opened a number of hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops in the village. The transport infrastructure has also been improved.

The Hagia Sophia , a stunning Byzantine church, is probably the town's most important tourist attraction.

Trabzon Castle ruins are visible in the town but cannot be visited as they fall in a military zone. The outside wall of the castle now serves as the back wall of a military building.

The "Atatürk Köşkü" is a villa built in 1890 by a local Greek merchant. In 1924 Mustafa Kemal Atatürk stayed in the villa during his visit to Trabzon. He stayed there again in 1937. It houses period rooms and serves as a monument to the memory of the founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey.

Boztepe Park is a small park and tea garden on the hills above Trabzon that has a panoramic view of nearly the entire city.

The terrain in Trabzon is ascending in such a way that although the view is far above that of the buildings below, it is still close enough to be able to observe the flow of traffic and the people moving about in the city.

Uzun Sokak is one of the most crowded streets of Trabzon.

Trabzon Museum is located in the town centre and offers interesting exhibits on the history of the region, including an impressive collection of Byzantine artefacts.

Trabzon's Bazaar District offers interesting shopping opportunities on ancient narrow streets, continuing from Kunduracılar Street from the Meydan (town square).

Kostaki Mansion is located to the north of Zeytinlik near Uzun Sokak.

Other sites of the city include: Fatih Mosque (originally the Panagia Khrysokephalos Church), Yeni Cuma Mosque (origi28 | Arab & Turkis Travel Magazine | May 2018

Cover Story nally the Agios Eugenios Church), Nakip Mosque (originally the Agios Andreas Church), Hüsnü Köktuğ Mosque (originally the Agios Elevtherios Church), İskender Pasha Mosque, Semerciler Mosque, Çarşı Mosque, Gülbahar Hatun Mosque and Türbe (commissioned by Sultan Selim I), Kalepark (originally Leonkastron).

Other important sites of interest in the broader region include: Kaymaklı Monastery, a formerly Armenian Monastery of the All-Saviour Kızlar Monastery of Panagia Theoskepastos (the Godveiled Virgin), Kuştul Monastery of Gregorios Peristereotas Vazelon Monastery of Agios Savvas (Maşatlık), Cave churches of Agia Anna (Little Ayvasıl), Sotha (St. John), Agios Theodoros, Agios Konstantinos, Agios Christophoros, Agia Kyriakí, Agios Michail and Panagia Tzita churches.

RIZE Rize is the capital of the Rize province and is located in the Black Sea Region of Turkey. The most prominent attractions in Rize are Ataturk House & Ethnography Museum, Firtina Deresi, Ziraat - Botanik Cay Bahcesi, Rize Kalesi and Rize Museum. The best time to visit Rize is in summer from the months starting from April to August. The museums, tea gardens and natural attractions, Rize has it all. This is the time when the weather is ideal to indulge in some interesting outdoor activities. Many festivals and events are organised throughout the year and visiting Rize during this period can be a good idea.

Rize is famous all over the world for its tea. Moreover, it is also a major contributor to the tea industry in Turkey. There are many tea gardens in Rize and that just enhances the overall beauty of this city. When in Rize, soothing your eyes with mesmerising visuals and sipping some hot piping Turkish tea, together can be a good idea. The city lies on wooded hills stretching down to the sea, with its commercial section on the narrow strip of flat land around a small bay. Rize enjoys a mild climate and luxuriant vegetation. It is linked by road with Trabzon, Hopa (88 km) east, near the Georgia frontier), and Erzurum (south) and by ship with Istanbul. Rize is a processing and sea shipping centre for the tea grown in the surrounding area; it has a tea research institute, founded in 1958.

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Cover Story Sights Rize Museum Just behind the tourist-office kiosk, this fine, custard-yellow Ottoman house is decorated in traditional style, with re-created bridal room, weaving room, kitchen and so on filled with antique furniture, cooking implements and musical instruments. An old record player reminds us that the 20th-century Ottomans were very much part of the modern age. Mannequins model traditional Laz costumes from central Rize and Hemşin costumes from the Ayder region.

In the basement you'll find fine carved baroque and rococo furniture from Italy and near the entrance a serender, a traditional wooden granary on stilts.

Fırtına Deresi One of the popular attractions in Rize, is the breath-taking Firtina Deresi. A perfect place to visit with your family and friends, Firtina Deresi is high on locales as well as activities. You can indulge in activities such as river rafting and many clubs there will help you with that. The river flows beautifully and is a stunning sight to watch. You can also do some photography as the visuals here are just breath-taking. Moreover, there are many restaurants and cafes which offer the iconic Turkish tea. If you don’t want to do rafting, then you can just stay back and relax and watch other people raft.

Tea House A tea house surrounded by a botanical garden, Ziraat - Botanik Cay Bahcesi is an ideal place to get the real taste of the ever so popular Turkish tea. This one is heavily visited by the tourists from across the globe who wants to enjoy the panoramic views of the city. One warning: There are not many spots to sit in this garden and hence you should reach well before the time. You can also click some great pictures of the surroundings around. Moreover, if you want to take back some tea and coffee for yourself or for your friends, family and relatives, then there is a store which sells the same, outside the garden.

Rize Castle Rize Castle is partly ruined; still it is one of the important tourist destinations in Rize. Tourists from all over the world visit Rize Kalesi, every year. Dating back to the 13th Century, Rize Castle has a citadel and a lower castle. Spread across the area of 5,200 sq ft, this place is just perfect for photography. Located on a hill to the southwest of Rize, the castle also allows you to enjoy some great panoramic view of the city. Just a walkable distance from the city town centre, visiting this place is a must during your Rize trip.

Palovit Waterfall Another natural attraction in Rize, Palovit Şelalesi (waterfall) is one of the most stunning places in the city. Located in the close proximity with the Firtina Deresi, this one is also getting popular, day by day among the tourists. This 15 metre waterfall is sure to please your eyes and turn your trip to Rize, an unforgettable experience; you can watch the shimmering sight of the waterfall and capture it in your lens. You can reach the place with a vehicle which is your own or a hired one.

The places get all slippery and muddy during rains and hence try visiting this incredible attraction in summer.

Ataturk House and Ethnography Museum This is another museum in Rize, which is slightly underrated but still high on offerings. The Ataturk House and Ethnography Museum is dedicated to the Turkish Army officer and revolutionary Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. The museum once served as a house to the iconic officer, now displays his belongings. It is a great opportunity to revisit the historical days and know how it all was in the Turkish Empire. The meeting room, kitchen, bedroom is recreated to take the tourists closer to that era.

30 | Arab & Turkis Travel Magazine | May 2018

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