Arab & Turkish Travel Magazine by S&M Publication ltd.

AT &

Arab & Turkish

Trave Magazine MAY 2016

www.arabturkishtravel.com

A magnificent time in the city

Istanbul Shopping Fest 1-31 July 2016

Sultan Sazlığı a bird paradise

Luxury Hotel

Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus

Algeria

Morocco

Bahrain

Oman

Comoros

Palestine

Djibouti

Qatar

Egypt

Saudi Arabia

Iraq

Somalia

Jordan

Sudan

Kuwait

Syria

Tunisia

Lebanon

Turkey

Libya

U.A.E

Mauritania

Yemen

Each Moment of This Happiness is an Unforgettable Memory A perfect organization, glamorous magnificence and an unforgettable night. A wedding which can be seen only in the fairy tales is in WOW Istanbul.

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24.03.2016 13:15

Inside This Issue

06 Sultan Sazlığı a bird paradise 16 Istanbul Shopping Fest 18 News From Arab Market Air carried thousands of 24 Mahan Chinese tourists to Turkey 24 ATM-Dubai at last year

MAY 2016 Airlines launches new flights to 25 Turkish 3 cities in Saudi Arabia 26 Luxury Hotel- Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus Sultan Sazlığı a bird paradise

ATM-Dubai at last year

Halal Tourism Conference 2016 in Konya

06 A magnificent time in the city Istanbul Shopping Fest 1-31 July 2016

16 News From Arab Market

Lebanon

Palestine

Syria

Algeria

Egypt

Libya

Qatar

Tunisia

Bahrain

Iraq

Mauritania

Saudi Arabia

Turkey

Comoros

Jordan

Morocco

Somalia

U.A.E

Djibouti

Kuwait

Oman

Sudan

Yemen

Arab & Turkish Travel Magazine Prepared by S&M Publication Ltd. ART DIRECTOR: Fatih Tahtalı OFFSET PREPARATION: Intas Basim FILM&PRINTED: Intas Basim HEAD OFFICE: S&M PUBLICATION LTD.Muratreis Muradiye Mektep Sokak 13/1 Baglarbasi- 81140 Istanbul-TURKEY Tel:+90.216.391 3795 Fax:+90.216.391 3796 www.arabturkishtravel:com ALL EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES TO suat@arabturkishtravel.com - ozgur@arabturkishtravel.com

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Double daily flights from Ankara and Istanbul to Tehran and beyond Istanbul: 212 343 58 22 Ankara: 312 425 7095

Cover Story

Sultan Sazlığı

a bird paradise

ne of Turkey’s most important bird sanctuaries, Sultan Sazlığı is a national park and Ramsar-protected wetland that’s a 32-km (20mile) drive from the turnoff for the Soğanlı Valleys.

Sultan Marsh is one of the largest and most important wetlands in Turkey as well as in the Middle East and Europe. The number of species of birds, both predators and warblers, that visit, winter or breed in this area and its environs, where fresh and saltwater ecosystems are found side by side, is around 250, with extremely high number of certain bird communities during the migration season. Population of Flamingo reach 50.000, Shelduck 10.000 and ducks of various species 600.000.

6May 2016

Another salient feature of the area is its importance as the southernmost breeding ground in the Western Palaearctic Region for several species of birds. Pintail Duck, Teal, Tufted Duck and Blackheaded Gull may be cited as examples. The wealth and composition of species, the large populations afforded refuge, the number of varied habitats found side by side and the existing flora and fauna make this a high class a wetland by international standards. Main Breeding Species ; Flamingo, Spoonbill, White Pelican, Glossy Ibis, Grey Heron, Little Egret, Great White Egret, Cattle Egret, Squacco Heron, Night Heron, Great Crested Grebe, Redthroated Diver, Pygmy Cormorant,

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May 2016ď ź7

Cover Story

Little Bittern, Stork, Greyleg Goose, Shelduck, Ruddy Shelduck, Gadwall, Teal Mallard, Pintail Duck, Garganey, Red-crested Pochard, Pochard, Ferruginous Duck, Waterhen, Little Crake, Corn Crake, Moorhen, Coot, Crane, Oyster Catcher, Stilt, Avocet, Stone Curlew, Pratincole, Woodcock, Redshank, Blackheaded Gull, Slender-billed Gull, Gull-billed Tern, Common Tern, Whiskered Tern, Least Tern, White-winged Black Tern and, in the barren areas, Sandgrouse. Visitors and Wintering Species ; Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Red-throated Diver, Black-throated Diver, Cormorant, Pygmy Cormorant,

8ď źMay 2016

Dalmatian Pelican, Bittern, Great White Egret, Little Egret, Grey Heron, Black Stock, Flamingo, Mute Swan, Greyleg Goose, White-fronted Goose, Shelduck, Ruddy Shelduck, Wigeon, Gadwall, Teal, Mallard, Pintail Duck, Garganey, Shoveler, Marbled Teal, Red-crested Pochard, Pochard, Ferruginous Duck, Tufted Duck, Smew, Stiff-tailed Duck, Coot, Moorhen, Stilt, Avocet, Little Ringed Plover, Ringed Plover, Dotterel, Golden Plover, Grey Plover, Lapwing, Green Plover, Spurwing Plover, Ruff, Godwit, Curlew, Sandpipers, Mediterranean Gull, Little Gull, Lesser Blackbacked Gull and Herring Gull.

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Restaurants Vip Thermal Room

Thermal& Swimmig Pools

Turkish Hammam

Adventure Park

A way from the Stress, Health, Beauty, Nature an Renewal Yenice Mah. Soguksu Cad. No:68 06890 K覺z覺lcahamam/Ankara/Turkey Tel.: +90 312 736 70 03 / Fax: +90 312 736 70 04 info@camhotel.com.tr / www.camhotel.com.tr

Cover Story

Mammals; Porcupine, Miller’s watershrew, Etruscan shrew, Shrew, Bat, Wolf, Fox, Veasel, Marbled polecat, Wild Boar, Brown Hare, Lesser Molerat, Woodmaouse, Rat, Gray Hamster, Golden Hamster, Desert Rat, Water Vole and Common Vole. Sultan Marshes Nature Conservation Area covers 17 200 hectares. The Sultan Marshes wetland complex is formed by Yay Lake (3650 ha), which is brackish (Ph 6.8-7.0 and salinity 12 mg/lt); Çöl Lake (2600 ha), which is saline (Ph 8.3 and salinity 80 mg/lt); Örtülüakar Marsh (3300 ha); and now largely drained Kepir Marsh (1900 ha) to the North. The marshes

10May 2016

and lakes are surrounded by wet meadows and salt steppes. These wetlands were all interconnected and formed a whole previous to drainage and irrigation projects. Örtülüakar and Kepir Marshes would fill in and spill into Yay Lake (40-150 cm depth) bringing essential nutrients that made Yay Lake an important feeding area for Flamingos (up to 90.000 individuals) and other wildlife. Yay Lake once full would spill into Col Lake (0-50 cm depth) A large part of these freshwater marshes is covered with reeds, and reed communities are encountered growing on the lake floor and floating on its surface as well. Among these

extensive beds of reeds and cattails, several small ponds of still water of one hectare or less can be seen. Several species of the underwater plants known as Myrophyllum, a favourite food of ducks, are found in these areas of open water. Such species as Carex, Typha, Juncus and Scirpus are encountered in the north section of Sultan Marsh and Sazdamları marsh north of Lake Yay. Such salt-resistant species as Salicornia are found in the barren areas surrounding the marshes and the lake, while steppe vegetation such as Depioioum, Limmonium, Astragallus and Cynodon are found in the less salty areas.

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Cover Story The distance from Kayseri to Sultan Pansion is 70 Km, from Nevsehir 80 Km, from Nigde 60 Km respectively. One can go to Sultan Marshes fron Kayseri taking D805 highway via Incesu, Yesilhisar and Ovaciftligi. From Urgup to Incesu, Yesilhisar and then Ovaciftligi. From Nigde taking D805 to Ovaciftligi on the 8th of Yahyali road. There’s no admission fee for the park but first-timers are encouraged to hire a field guide to take them out by boat, jeep, or foot (depending on the water level in the marshes). Spring is the best time to visit. Contact the guides who run Sultan Pansiyon in Ovaçiftlik village in advance to make arrangements.

More information : www.sultanbirding.com

12May 2016

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May 2016ď ź13

Welcome on Tunisair Flights. Istanbul ✈Tunis Flight no

Departure

Arrival

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Istanbul 22:35 Tunis 23:20

Everyday

TU215

Istanbul 13.15 Tunis 14:00 Istanbul 02:25 Tunis 03:15

Thursday Tuesday and Sunday

tunisair.com Schedules are shown in local time. Summer program is between 27.03.2016 - 29.10.2016 Please contact with TUNISAIR.

Days

GET CLOSER Valikonağı Caddesi No: 8/1 Nişantaşı / İstanbul Tel: (0212) 225 88 53 - 241 70 97 email: info@tunisairturquie.com - agences@tunisairturquie.com

Istanbul Shopping Fest

A magnificent time in the city

Istanbul Shopping Fest 1-31 July 2016

he 6th Shopping Fest at Istanbul, one of Europe’s most mesmerising cities, offers you the perfect opportunity for the ultimate ‘Istanbul’ experience and a shopping spree. The festival will be taking place from 1 to 31 July and will be offering great discounts and offers along with amusing events that will give you the chance to explore Istanbul. Blending Istanbul’s rich history, culture, culinary arts, shopping and entertainment in one great event, the 6th Istanbul Shopping Fest will held from 1 to 31 July this year. You’ll enjoy countless exciting experiences that will conquer both your heart and mind and take on a great unforgettable adventure during your a month at Istanbul, one of the most stunning cities in the world. A melting pot of oriental essence and Western dynamism, Istanbul is an alluring

16May 2016

land with something to offer everyone. This time, Istanbul will be opening its gates for you to a world full of shopping, entertainment and surprises with Istanbul Shopping Fest. Enjoy countless shopping privileges with great discounts and offers on plenty of brands during the Istanbul Shopping Fest. You’ll also get the chance to join surprise raffles giving away amazing gifts. This year, Istanbul Shopping Fest is spreading the festivities and love of shopping to every corner of the city from 1 to 31 July; enjoy concerts, competitions and exclusive fashion shows at central spots around the city, not only in shopping centres. This time, Istanbul will be welcoming you to modern shopping centres with colourful lanes, offering everything you’re looking under one roof for discounted prices, and entertaining surprises! And, of course,

this beautiful city will invite you to enjoy new experiences and adventures in every corner worth exploring. Circle 1 to 31 July 2016 on your calendar if you want to experience a true festival, explore a new lifestyle and live the ultimate shopping experience and come to Istanbul to discover everything it has to offer! Find unique souvenirs that will give your home a breeze from Istanbul at the oldest trade centres in the world like the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar, the perfect architectural examples representing the city. You can also find plenty of surprises in the shopping centres offering world-famous brands. Istanbul’s shopping centres where you can shop till you drop:

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May 2016ď ź17

News From Arab Market

Algeria Starwood Hotels Debuts Four Points Brand in Algeria

The Bahraini side of the Bahraini-Turkish joint business council headed by Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI)’s board member Ahmed Bin Hindi visited Turkey. Bahraini delegation met with the governor of Giresun and the governor of Ordu of Turkey as part of their business mission. The two sides deliberated about the Bahraini-Turkish business ties, means of beefing up trade and investment, and discussed reinforcing partnership and joint ventures. The Bahraini delegation also visited Giresun Chamber of Commerce and Industry and held joint meetings and B2B meetings with their Turkish counterparts. In this regard, Bin Hindi stressed the bilateral relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Republic of Turkey and the attractive business environment and economic features each country enjoys, while calling to explore and exploit the intact business opportunities and intensify business relations.

Gulf Air Appoints New Country Manager for Turkey Gulf Air, the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national carrier, has announced its new Country Manager for Turkey.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced the debut of the Four Points brand in Algeria, with the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Oran. Owned by the Société d’investissement Hôtelière (SIH), Four Points by Sheraton Oran features 170 spacious and contemporary guest rooms, including 20 suites. A few minutes’ drive from the airport, the hotel is conveniently located within a short distance of the city center with shops, restaurants, recreation and the famous Mohamed Benahmed Convention Center. Perfectly poised on the top of a cliff, it offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Four Points by Sheraton Oran marks Starwood’s fourth hotel in Algeria and the third in Oran. With five state-of-the-art meeting rooms and a ballroom that can welcome up to 350 guests, the hotel is ideal for business meetings as well as memorable banquets and weddings. A 24-hour fitness center, sauna, Hamam, Jacuzzi, a rooftop pool and a spa ensure guests can stay fit and relaxed during their stay. The hotel features all of the brand’s defining elements, including Four Comfort Bed™ and free bottled water in all rooms and suites, fast and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and an energizing breakfast, helping guests start and end the day right. “Oran is an evolving city with good potential for business travel. Four Points Oran is a significant addition to our thriving portfolio in Algeria and we hope this hotel with its great location and the value it offers will become the preferred choice of today’s traveler” said Michael Wale, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East.

Bahrain Bahraini business council visited Turkey

Mr. Shadi Raweh, a seasoned aviation professional becomes the new Country Manager for Turkey. With over 15 years’ experience and an in-depth, working knowledge of the aviation and travel industry, Shadi has covered several management roles both within Gulf Air and in other industry organisations. He previously held the position of Country Manager for Yemen, initially for IATA in 2004 and later for Gulf Air in 2008. Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Ahmed Janahi, Gulf Air A/Chief Commercial Officer said: “On behalf of the entire Gulf Air family I am delighted to welcome Shadi to his new role representing the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national carrier in Turkey. His industry knowledge and experience will further strengthen our team, helping to raise awareness of all that Gulf Air has to offer the Turkish market.” Gulf Air is a major international carrier serving 39 cities in 22 countries spanning three continents. The airline operates one of the largest networks in the Middle East, with double daily flights or more to 10 regional cities, in addition to select destinations in the Indian Subcontinent and Europe, from its hub at Bahrain International Airport. The airline currently operates 5 weekly flights between Istanbul and Bahrain and flights can be booked online at gulfair.com, by calling the airline’s 24 hour Worldwide Contact Centre on (+973) 17373737, or through any local Gulf Air Office and approved travel agencies.

Gulf Air Appoints APG in 10 countries Gulf Air, the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national carrier, recently appointed APG Network, an airline-focused representation network, as its representative in 10 countries to provide Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) support and administrative services to Gulf Air. APG will provide services to Gulf Air in Australia, Austria, Czech Republic, Finland, Indonesia, Japan, Morocco, Poland, Taiwan and Tunisia. To mark the beginning of this new cooperation, senior representatives from both Gulf Air and APG recently attended an official signing ceremony at the airline’s headquarters in Bahrain. At the event, Mr. Ahmed Janahi, Gulf Air A/Chief Commercial Officer said: “We are delighted to embark on this relationship with APG as a partner and representative in 10 key, promising offline markets for Gulf Air. With an experienced business associate like APG, the airline will be better represented in our offline markets, enabling us to raise awareness of Gulf Air’s distinctive offering and strengthen more business.” Sandrine de Saint Sauveur, President and CEO of APG Inc., commented “We are delighted to announce this new cooperation with Gulf Air, one of the most longstanding airlines in the Middle East, and to have the opportunity to work with Gulf Air to increase their sales in additional key offline markets.” Gulf Air is a major international carrier, serving 43 cities in 24 countries,

18May 2016

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covering three continents. The airline operates one of the largest networks in the Middle East, with double daily flights or more to 10 regional cities, in addition to select destinations in the Indian Subcontinent and Europe, from its hub at Bahrain International Airport. Gulf Air serves all its destinations with a combination wide and narrow body fleet totaling 28 modern aircra

Egypt UNWTO follows Egypt’s tourism recovery The tomb is one of the most beautiful from the New Kingdom. It is a rockhewn discovered in 1996 by French Egyptologist Alain Zivie in the wellknown necropolis of Saqqara, 30 km (20 miles) south of Cairo. The tomb consists of the cult chambers with three decorated rooms and the underground, mostly undecorated, burial chambers. The first room of the cult chapel of her tomb is dedicated to the life of Maia. She was the wet nurse of the king, educator of the god’s body and the great one of the hareem. Nothing is known about her parents. Tutankhamun is depicted on one of the tomb’s reliefs featuring the boy king sitting on Maia’s lap and the king is mentioned several times in the tomb’s inscriptions. There is also a badly damaged scene showing Maia in front of the king. The second room is dedicated to the burial rites associated with Maia. Maia is shown in front of offering bearers. She is depicted as a mummy in relation to the opening of the mouth ritual and she is standing before the underworld god Osiris. The third room is the biggest and has four pillars decorated with the image of Maia. UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, met the Minister of Tourism of Egypt, Hisham Zaazou, on the side-lines of ITB to discuss the current measures being implemented by the country to stimulate recovery. The meeting followed up on the official visit of Mr Rifai to Egypt last month, where he had the opportunity to meet President Abdel Fattah elSisi and Prime Minister Sherif Ismail to discuss the tourism situation in the country and the recovery plans being implemented. Meeting with Minister Zaazou in Berlin, the UNWTO Secretary-General commended the measures taken by Egypt to restore market confidence and expressed the full support of the Organization to this programme. “The work of the Ministry and of Minister Zaazou in promoting the highest political support for the sector, enhancing tourism safety and security by successfully integrating the sector into risk and emergency management structures both at national and local levels, and the various marketing initiatives taken in key markets are the correct ways to restore confidence and accelerate the recovery of tourism in Egypt”, said Mr Rifai.

The back of the room shows a stele carved into the rock with Maia in front of Osiris. In this room there is also a staircase leading down to the burial chamber. Most other walls of this room are undecorated. The tomb was in later times heavily reused.

Iraq First Carlson Rezidor in Iraq

“We should never forget that Egypt’s tourism sector is one of the world’s most remarkable success stories. In the last decade, the number of visitors to Egypt practically tripled and so did the exports generated by international tourism. Despite current challenges Egypt is today, and will continue to be, a world-leading tourism destination, capturing one in every four international tourist arrivals to the Middle East”, said Mr Rifai. Mr Rifai and Minister Zaazou also discussed the actions that the Ministry has swiftly taken to communicate with competent authorities and the public in source markets on safety and security issues, to unlock the support of airlines and tour operators, to incentivise demand, and to engage key players in Egypt in these concerted efforts. UNWTO experts have visited Egypt in recent months to support the Ministry in these areas. The meeting was also an occasion to further discuss the upcoming UNWTO City Tourism Summit being held later in 2016 in Cairo. “We are holding this important event in Cairo as a clear sign of confidence in Egypt, and we trust that it will be a great opportunity to showcase all the progress and initiatives that Egypt has been implementing to accelerate recovery”, added Mr Rifai.

Egypt Opens Tomb of King Tut’s Wet Nurse Tutankhamun is colloquially referred to as King Tut was an Egyptian pharaoh of the 18th dynasty during the period of Egyptian history known as the New Kingdom. He ascended to the throne at the age of nine or ten, taking the throne name Nebkheperure. His wet-nurse was a woman called Maia, known from her tomb at Saqqara. Egypt’s antiquities minister has opened the tomb of King Tutankhamun’s wet nurse; Maia to the public for the first time since it was discovered in 1996.

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Carlson Rezidor announces its first hotel in Iraq: the Radisson Blu Hotel, Erbil – located in the Kurdistan region – is already under construction and scheduled to open in 2017. With the arrival in Iraq, Rezidor is now present in 81 countries across Europe, the Middle East & Africa. “Our long-term strategy targets asset-light and sustainable growth with a specific focus on emerging markets. Kurdistan is one of the most interesting emerging markets in the Middle East: this prospering oil-rich region is not affected from instabilities in Iraq and offers considerable business potential. We carefully monitor and evaluate safety & security in Kurdistan and are confident that the region will experience a further positive development”, said Wolfgang M. Neumann, President & CEO of Rezidor. The Radisson Blu Hotel, Erbil will be located in the Western suburbs of Erbil, the capital of Kurdistan – only 2.5 kilometres away from the Iraq Kurdistan parliament and 3 kilometres away from Erbil International Airport which is

May 201619

News From Arab Market the main gateway to the region. The upper upscale hotel will offer 260 guest rooms, an all-day-dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant, a lobby bar, meeting rooms and a ballroom, a gym and a spa. “Erbil is an attractive hub for international companies, attracts a growing number of leading international investors, and shows a higher GDP growth than other parts of Iraq. The regional government is actively driving the area development, and we look forward to supporting travel & tourism in Erbil and Kurdistan together with our partners. We also want to be an important employer: By creating new jobs for local talent and engaging with the community we operate in, we can make a difference”, commented Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer at Rezidor. Besides an increasing number of business travellers, Erbil also attracts tourists: The city is famous for its archaeological citadel which dates back to 600 years B.C., if not before. It has been claimed that the site is the oldest continuously inhabited town in the world. Recently, the citadel has been included as one of the 100 most endangered cultural sites in the world by the World Monument Fund.

Jordan Royal Jordanian net profit

Kuwait Airways has posted losses each year bar one since the Iraqi invasion, which saw aircraft and parts stolen, and since 2012, the government has strived to improve the airline’s finances. Sarhan said the turnaround measures were starting to bear fruit, noting that Kuwait Airways would post a narrower 2015 loss. The carrier posted a 33 million dinar ($109.2 million) loss in 2014, versus 67 million dinars the year before. “We have an initial target of three years from now to be positive, so we’re talking about 2018-2019,” he said. The turnaround measures included converting Kuwait Airways to an independent, albeit state-owned company and allowing it to circumvent the audit bureau, which enabled the carrier to order new planes for the first time since the Iraqi invasion. The government is also funding a new fleet, and Kuwait Airways ordered 35 Boeing and Airbus aircraft in 2014, and also agreed to lease 12 Airbus aircraft. The airline also plans to review its flight routes, and cut out unprofitable ones while boosting flights on more popular segments.

Kuwait - Sharm el-Sheikh direct flights In a meeting held on March 13, 2016, Royal Jordanian’s Board of Directors, presided by Chairman Suleiman Hafez, endorsed the company’s audited financial results. The figures show that Royal Jordanian registered a net profit before tax of JD21 million in 2015, while in 2014 it had registered JD49.5 million net losses before tax. The net profit after tax reached JD16 million, while in 2014 the company had registered JD39.6 million in net losses. Hafez attributed the growth to the efficiency and loyalty of the staff, and to the company’s keenness to implement the company’s business plan 20152019. The plan focuses on constant renewal of the fleet and review of the route network, restructuring in all areas, taking measures to increase revenues and reduce operating costs, working to increase the company’s market share, looking for available growth opportunities, all the while improving the quality of services and maintaining the airline’s leading position in the Levant.

Kuwait Kuwait Airways has struggled to recover from Iraq’s 1990-91 invasion of Kuwait. Complex bureaucratic procedures have further sidelined it from the boom in Gulf aviation over the last two decades. The carrier has let go of 1,350 Kuwaiti nationals during the last two years, part of a plan to cut costs and return to profit by 2019, the chief executive of the state-owned carrier told Reuters. Staff cuts of nationals are extremely rare in Kuwait, which redistributes significant oil wealth to citizens through high-paying jobs with state entities and social welfare programmes. The number of people employed by the airline, however, is one of the main drawbacks to its turnaround plan, industry experts say.

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Kuwait Airways started direct flights to Sharm el-Sheikh. Kuwait’s state carrier already flies to Cairo, Alexandria and Sohag but has offered only seasonal flights to Sharm el-Sheikh, a beach and diving holiday destination on the Red Sea. The Russian airliner’s crash on October 31 after taking off from Sharm el-Sheikh is expected to hit Egypt’s vital tourism industry. Kuwait Airways supports Egypt’s tourism sector by re-launching flights to Sharm el-Sheikh since with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait has provided billions of dollars of aid in the last two years to support Egypt’s economy and help maintain political stability.

Morocco Etihad started second Moroccan destination Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, which flies to famous Moroccan destination of Casablanca since June 2006, announced a second destination in the country. Etihad’s new route to Rabat, which is a historical city that has grown in appeal for business and leisure travelers, will be a twice-weekly service, operated by three-class Airbus A340-500 aircraft. The new Abu Dhabi – Rabat route is the only direct commercial air link between the two capital cities. With existing daily services on the Abu Dhabi – Casablanca route, Etihad Airways has boosted its Morocco frequency to nine flights each week. Combined with Casablanca, the Rabat route brings to nearly 4,200 the total number of seats each week on Etihad Airways’ services between the UAE and Morocco. Like the UAE, the Moroccan Government has made significant investments in the development of its tourism industry. In 2010, the government launched its Vision 2020 which includes plans to make Morocco one of the top 20 tourist destinations in the world and to double the number of international arrivals to 20 million a year by 2020.

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The UAE Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco, His Excellency Al Asri Saeed Al Dhaheri, said: “There is no doubt that the new Etihad Airways route between the two Arabian capitals is a result of joint cooperation between the two countries in civil aviation. This is a further step in the development of the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Morocco. Direct flights will contribute profoundly to the development of trade, investment and tourism. The UAE and Morocco are united by a long history of cooperation and the growth of economic and trade relations between the two countries has developed significantly over recent years. The Abu Dhabi – Rabat flight is operated on Wednesdays and Fridays using an Airbus A340-500 with a capacity of 240 seats, offering 12 in First Class, 28 in Business, and 200 in Economy.

Oman

construction of the resort it was important to preserve this environment for the turtles, so after careful consideration the resort was designed to ensure all lighting at night was directed away from the shores so as not to impact on the nesting turtles. Shangri-La Muscat has always been a key contributor to Oman’s tourism sector and a strong support to the country’s growing economy of employment in Muscat, providing work for over 5,500 people since opening in 2006, with 145 members of staff from the team in 2006 still working there today. At the time of opening, 1,200 palm trees were planted in the grounds of the resort for every member of staff employed, and these palms still line the backdrop of the resort today. The resort has also been an ambassador in supporting jobs for the local community, employing nearly 2,000 Omani colleagues since opening. They have a dedication and passion for training and developing skills for future careers with a particularly strong partnership with the National Hospitality Institute in Wadi Al Kabir by supporting Omani’s with a passion for hospitality in their first steps in their careers. In addition to the direct employment Shangri-La has provided in Muscat, they have also indirectly created employment for independent transportation. Taxi drivers, partner-operated cars and tour guides have all benefited from the opening of the resort and it is estimated that on average the resort receives over 85,350 independent transports per year, which since opening has generated revenue for over 850,000 contributors to tourism in Muscat. Over the years Corporate Social Responsibility has been a growing focus and the team and management have supported over 1,900 CSR projects, ranging from beach cleanup exercises, fundraising and water distribution to redeveloping entire homes and schools for the local community. “As a pioneer staff member from 2006 I am personally very proud to be here 10 years after opening the resort. From the moment I arrived I fell in love with Oman and, while having a short time working in Dubai, it was like coming home to return to Muscat once again” commented Mark Kirk, Area Manager and Hotel General Manager at Shangri-La. He continued “There are many achievements that the resort has accomplished over the past 10 years and we are all very proud and excited to be celebrating this milestone anniversary. We have always maintained our Shangri-La Values of hospitality from the heart, and we can truly say our hearts lie in Muscat”. Since 2006 Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa has welcomed over 2,781,365 guests to the resort, from all over the world, and is looking forward to another 10 years developing the tourism to Oman.

Qatar Qatar Airways reaches 1 million followers on Instagram

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa celebrates its 10 year anniversary in Muscat and will be marking the occasion with a number of fantastic offers to thank guests for their support over the past decade. As a result of the resort opening in 2006, after three years of construction, the 640 rooms doubled the total room inventory available in Muscat and was, and remains, the largest resort in terms of both size and facilities available. During the construction, materials were shipped to the site by sea as the road was being built as previously the resort was inaccessible by land! The development was created as a self contained and independent location, including its own desalination plant and backup generators. The construction was so extensive that on occasions there was up to over 3,000 workers onsite each day. When creating Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, its architects and designers followed traditional themes to produce an experience based on the very roots of Oman’s rich cultural heritage. Ancient castles, palaces, cities, towns and mud brick villages that embody the Sultanate’s unique regional identity were the main focus and inspiration for the resort. Today, these themes continue and are evident in the opulent decor and style still portrayed and maintained throughout the resort. Since time immemorial, sea turtles have been making their way onto beaches throughout Oman to lay their eggs, and to ensure that these rare creatures experience minimum disruption during their annual pilgrimage, Shangri-La appointed Mohammed Al Hassini, the first Turtle Ranger in a resort in not only Oman, but within the global Shangri-La family. Since opening, the Turtle Ranger has assisted over 50,000 turtle hatchlings (from just over 1,000 nests) make their way to the ocean. During the design and

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Qatar Airways reaches 1 million followers on Instagram, second most followed airline in Arab world following Emirates which has 1.2 million followers. Having only launched its Instagram account in May 2013, Qatar Airways attracts new followers at an average rate of 30,000 people per month thanks to its engaging and diverse eye-catching imagery. Often showcasing the hugely popular destinations on Qatar Airways’ extensive network, the captivating Instagram account allows followers to travel the world from their own homes, inspiring them to explore new environments and experience new cultures. Among the most popular posts have been Sydney, with a stunning air-to-air image of the airline’s first flight over the Opera House; LA with Mariah Carey performing at an intimate dinner and a spectacular landing near the beach in Phuket. Especially popular in the GCC, Instagram has become a valuable tool for any international brand looking to engage with consumers in this region. Ms. Salam Al Shawa, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Qatar Airways said: “Achieving this milestone of one million followers, plus the continuous growth across all of our social media platforms, aligns with Qatar Airways’ vision to be number one in the aviation industry. Our social media platforms allow us to communicate directly with people all over the world and is the truest embodiment of our brand campaign – Going places together. Our strategy for sharing the story and spirit of Qatar Airways with our followers through inspirational and engaging content has seen our relationship with our global community continue to grow and flourish.”

May 201621

News From Arab Market Qatar Airways to support development of biofuels Qatar Airways is one of the supporters to drive the development and commercialisation of sustainable aviation biofuels. The airline has signed a pledge to support the airline industry’s commitment to sustainable aviation fuels. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Aviation will make a significant contribution to the global response to climate change, and Qatar Airways is contributing towards the development of local and international solutions. Our investment in flying fuel efficient aircraft and focus on optimising environmental performance across our modern fleet demonstrates our leadership in the continued pursuit for lower carbon air travel. “Qatar Airways is represented on IATA’s most senior environmental committee, and together with our commitment to SAFUG, we are fully united with our aviation partners in our shared ambition to reduce the industry’s impact on the environment. It will take time and shared vision to advance the development, certification, and commercial use of sustainable aviation fuels and Qatar Airways has the ambition to meet this challenge and achieve change.”

“The hotels are targeting to open in time for the 2018 Hajj and will welcome guests for the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah visitors in this religious destination. We are looking forward to both hotels complementing our existing Park Regis Kris Kin and our upcoming Park Regis Business Bay hotel, located in Dubai. We are also actively looking for further opportunities to expand our network in the Middle East,” he said. The owner’s representative Riyad Alhoraibi said “Discussions on the Park Regis Makkah hotels first started at ATM 2015 and over the ensuing months the relationship developed culminating in the signing of agreement for the two properties just weeks before the 2016 ATM.” “We are delighted to be able to offer guests a range of accommodation in Ibrahim Al Khalil Street within walking distance from the Haram.” The opening of the Park Regis Makkah hotels will bring the StayWell Hospitality Group’s portfolio to 31 hotels worldwide and 4 in the region and a step closer to the group’s strategic objective of expanding its portfolio to 100 hotels within three years.

flynas appoints APG

Qatar Airways’ fuel optimisation programme is one example of how it is working towards the airline industry’s target to improve fuel efficiency by 1.5 per cent each year to 2020 and to deliver carbon neutral growth beyond this date. This initiative involves testing and implementing new methods to save fuel and reduce carbon emissions such as reducing aircraft weight; optimising route efficiency; and using only a single engine while taxiing from the runway. A commitment to the SAFUG Pledge will see Qatar Airways’ experts working in partnership with governments and industry representatives in response to global climate change challenges, identifying research projects and sharing best practice and innovations into the development of lower carbon and renewable fuels derived from environmentally and socially sustainable sources.

Saudi Arabia First Park Regis in Makkah Saudi Arabia

Based in Saudi Arabia, flynas has announced a PSA representation agreement with APG to develop offline sales and brand awareness in over 80 countries worldwide spanning all continents. Under the agreement, APG will carry out sales and marketing activities in each country to develop awareness of the airline and will also coordinate distribution of the airline’s online ticketing portal in countries where the airline is not a BSP participant. flynas sets a new standard of efficiency for low-cost travel in the region. Offering low fares, on-time flights and friendly service, with the most welcoming crew with more than 1000 flights a week on 29 destinations within and outside Saudi Arabia. Operated using all Airbus A320 aircraft with the capacity to carry 164 guests in a two class configuration – 156 in Economy and 8 in Business Class.

Tunisia 440 Russian travel agents visit Djerba

Australia’s largest privately owned hotel management company StayWell Hospitality Group (SWHG) announced the signing of a management agreement to open and operate the company’s first Park Regis properties in Makkah Saudi Arabia. Expected to open in the second quarter of 2018, the remarkable two hotels boast 286 and 344 guest rooms respectively (630 rooms in total). This Park Regis development will be one of the latest openings for the fast growing international brand which has a presence in Australia, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, India, United Kingdom and Indonesia.

440 Russian travel agents visited at March in Djerba for a 5-day “go and see visit” to finalize a contract with thirty hotels in the Djerba-Zarzis region.

StayWell Hospitality Group CEO Mr Simon Wan said that formalising the management agreement for the hotels is a strategic move for the Sydney based company in entering the established Saudi Arabia market to grow its presence in the Middle East further.

According to regional delegate of tourism in Medenine, Ahmed Kalboussi, security conditions in Djerba are provided through heavy security deployment and stringent arrangements by hoteliers.

“These two unique hotels will offer guests superb dining options as well as deluxe accommodation within walking distance to the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

22May 2016

This promotional action was organized by Tunisia’s National Tourist Office (TNTO), the Hotel Trade Federation and Russian tour operator Pegas.

It is said, moreover, that two direct flights Moscow / Djerba / Moscow each week will be put in place.

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Tunisia ranked 14th in Muslim Travel Index 2016

The conference will be hosted alongside an exhibition which will last for three days with the final day opened to trade and public. It will feature over 100 exhibitors from Turkey and the rest of the world. For more information on the event including how to attend as a delegate please visit http://www.halaltourismconference.com

Turkey ranked third most popular Muslim travel destination

The Master Card-CrescentRating (world’s leading authority on Halal travel) Global-Muslim Travel Index-2016 was published in March 2016, by MasterCard. Out of 130 holiday destinations for Muslims, Tunisia was ranked 14th; it is ahead of Egypt, 17th and Algeria 22nd. The Global Muslim Travel Index 2016 is based on several indicators, namely the arrival of Muslim visitors in 2015, ease of communication, airline connections, the requirement or not of visas, airport facilities and the provision of accommodation options.

Turkey Halal Tourism Conference 2016 in Konya

Turkey has claimed its position as the third most popular destination in the global Muslim travel market, according to the MasterCard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2016, which covers 130 destinations in the world. Turkey took the third position on the list of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) destinations, behind Malaysia which retained its pole position and the UAE. In May, Turkey will host world’s biggest international conference on halal tourism in May with the Halal Tourism Conference 2016 in Konya bringing together some of the world’s leading names in the travel industry. Indonesia climbed two places to take the fourth spot with Bahrain becoming the biggest mover, jumping four spots to come in tenth place. Singapore also retained its pole position for the non-OIC destinations, with Thailand, the UK, South Africa and Hong Kong making up the top five. The study also revealed that in 2015, there were an estimated 117 million Muslim visitor arrivals globally, representing close to 10 percent of the entire travel market. This is forecasted to grow to 168 million visitors by 2020 equal to 11 percent of the market segment with a market value projected to exceed US$200 billion. Asia and Europe were also revealed as the two leading regions in the world for attracting Muslim visitors - accounting for 87 percent of the entire market.

Turkey will welcome thousands of delegates for the world’s biggest international conference on halal tourism, the Halal Tourism Conference 2016, which will be held in May. The Mevlana Cultural Center in Konya, Turkey is the venue of the event which will take place on 3-5 May 2016.

Etihad adds Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to its network Etihad Airways, which daily flies to Istanbul Ataturk Airport from its Abu Dhabi hub, adds Istanbul’s second airport; Sabiha Göçen to its growing network.

Themed “Developing Halal Tourism Industries” the two-day event will feature a number of keynote speeches, panel discussions and workshops and will also see new campaigns and projects launched. Alongside the conference, there will also be a three-day exhibition featuring over 100 businesses from across the world. Over 1,000 delegates from all over the world are expected to attend including tourism boards, travel agencies, tour operators, hotels and airlines. This year’s event will also feature from Hajj and Umrah providers, financial institutions and food and drink businesses. It is the second time the event is being held in Europe following the success of the inaugural event in Andalucía, Spain. Confirmed guest speakers at the event will include Dr. Bandar, Fahad al Fehaid, Delegation of Arab Tourism Organization of the Arab league, Fazal Bahardeen, CEO of Crescentrating & HalalTrip, Simon Coombs, President & CEO – Shaza Hotels, Irfan Onal, Director General, Ministry Of Culture and Tourism Promotion and Rafi-Uddin Shikoh, CEO of Dinar Standard.

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May 201623

News From Arab Market Mahan Air carried thousands of Chinese tourists to Turkey

In Brief l Gürkan Akbay has been appointed to Elite World

Gurkan Akbay

İstanbulHotel as General Manager.

l Cem Kul appointed as area sales and marketing

manager of Middle East, Africa and India for Rixos

Hotels.

l Euphoria Hotels Group appoints new General Guenter Gebhard

Coordinator, named Rıfat Orhan Koral.

l Guenter Gebhard is appointed as the new General

Manager of the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum.

l The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul has appointed Can Göktaş Andreas Jersabeck

as its new General Manager.

l Andreas Jersabeck, is the new General Manager of

Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus..

l Cem Kul is the Sales and Marketing director of Rixos Cem Kul

Arcan Bayraktaroglu

Mahan Air also carried some 15 to 16 thousand Chinese travelers to Turkey last year.

Manager of the Grand Prestige Hotel & Spa-Side.

U.A.E.

l Arcan Bayraktaroglu has been appointed as Hotel

Hotels for Konya and Eskişehir cities.

l Kerim Sipahiler is the new president of SITE –

Abu Dhabi Airports February figures

Manager to the Divan Group

l Cem Bora Sevim is new area manager of Rixos

Cem Bora Sevim

Mr. Hosseini said that Mahan Air carried 25 percent more international passengers in 2015. And operations to Turkey increased from two daily flights to three daily flights.

Hotel for Middle East, Africa and India.

l Mehmet Dipçin is appointed as the new General

Mr. Hossein Hosseini, Director of Marketing & Route Development for Mahan Air, the first Iranian private airline, at Turkey.

Turkey.

l Nihan Esen, who has been working for Istanbul CVB Adnan Soyaslan

since 1999, has been appointed to MCI Turkey

as Senior Business Development Manager.

l Adnan Soyaslan has been appointed to Elexus Hotel

İbrahim Korkut

Resort Casino located in the Kyrenia, Northern

Cyprus as Meneral Manager.

l İbrahim Korkut appointed as the sales director of

Abu Dhabi & Al Ain.

l Gulf Air Appoints New Country Manager for Turkey, Avşar Koç

named Shadi Raweh. l Buğra Berberoğlu is CEO and group President of

Bugra Bayraktaroglu

River Rock Hotels and Resort and Avsar Koc is Chief

Commercial Officer, Senior Partner & Co-Founder at

River Rock Hotels & Resorts.

Etihad Airways expands its services to Istanbul during 2016 with a new four times weekly service to Sabiha Gokcen Airport. The service will commence on 1 July 2016 and be served by an Airbus A320-200, with 16 seats in business and 120 in economy. The route will provide more travel options for guests travelling between the UAE and Istanbul as well as access to over thirty two-way connected markets and over 240 weekly connections around the world over the Abu Dhabi hub. Sabiha Gokcen Airport is an increasingly popular gateway for visitors to Istanbul and the southern section of the region. It is well connected to other domestic cities on the Asian side of the city, including Yalova and Bursa. James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer for Etihad Airways said: “Istanbul is a critically important market within our global network and we plan to serve both city airports to support our wider expansion plans. We have seen an increasing number of guests travelling between both the United Arab Emirates and Turkey and we want this trend to continue and grow during 2016.’’

24May 2016

Abu Dhabi Airports reported an 8.7% increase in passenger traffic at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), for February 2016, compared to the same month last year. A total of 1,863,942 people traveled through AUH last month, exceeding February 2015’s figure of 1,715,540. “We continue to see year on year growth in passenger numbers traveling through Abu Dhabi International Airport and this highlights the fact that the UAE capital is continuing to develop as a global tourism destination and strategic transport hub,” said Eng. Ahmad Al Haddabi, Chief Operations Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports. “Traffic between India, UK, Thailand, Australia, USA and a number of others, all witnessed increased passenger figures from AUH. Etihad Airways’ partner network has played a big role in the rise of these numbers and we are committed to ensuring the best airport services and infrastructure to accommodate this growth.” said Eng. Al Haddabi. Aircraft movements in February 2016 reached 13,307 up by 3.5 % from 12,852 movements recorded in February 2015. Bangkok, London Heathrow, Mumbai, Doha and Jeddah featured as the top-five routes from Abu Dhabi International Airport. Several destinations saw significant growth in passenger traffic, with Australia beating its February 2015 figures by 45.2% last month, and the United Kingdom recording an 18.8% increase in the same period.

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Six-tower luxury project in Dubai

Air Arabia launches Sharjah – Batumi flights

A new six-tower luxury project on Sheikh Zayed Road is unveiled by Damac Properties. Construction for the project will commence before summer. The project titled ‘Aykon City’ is set to be completed in 2021. It will comprise an 80-storey Aykon Hotel and Residences, a 63-storey Damac Maison serviced hotel residences, a 60-storey apartment tower, a 65-storey office tower and two 30-floor ultra-luxury residential towers featuring car lifts to each unit and direct views over the Dubai Canal and Safa Park. The 4 million sq ft development is located on the eastern and western sides of Sheikh Zayed road at the Safa Park intersection and in close proximity to the Dubai Canal. It will join other iconic developments in the city’s business district such as the Burj Khalifa, Emirates Towers and the Dubai International Financial Centre. This project will feature the ‘Aykon Dare’: an adventure experience on the Hotel’s 80th floor where guests can walk around the outside of the tower’s roof with magnificent views of the city. ‘Aykon City’ will also consist of the Aykon Plaza with swimming pools, spa, beach club, cafes, restaurants, yoga and tai-chi areas, and a private members’ club.

Air Arabia launches seasonal direct flights from Sharjah to Batumi, Georgia, to cater to summer tourist demand. Flights will operate from July 2 to September 30, 2016, with Batumi becoming the second city after Tbilisi to join Air Arabia’s network in Georgia. Flights will be operational twice a week on Thursdays and Saturdays. They will depart Sharjah International Airport at 13:15 and arrive at Batumi International Airport at 16:40. Return flights will leave from Batumi at 17:30 and will land in Sharjah at 20:50. Commenting on the announcement, Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, said: “We are happy to announce an extension to our connectivity in Georgia. Batumi is a growing tourism destination and is popular during the summer months. We expect to see healthy demand for the flights and further encourage tourism between the two countries.” Batumi is a historically significant cultural and trading port on the coast of the Black Sea. Since 2010, it has seen major development from the construction of high-rise buildings and the renovation of its old town. The city is filled with balmy beaches, museums and other historical sites, scenic gardens and several other tourist attractions. The announcement by Air Arabia comes after the carrier launched its flights to Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina further cementing its rapid expansion in Europe.

Turkish Airlines launches new flights to 3 cities in Saudi Arabia (SAW)-Riyadh (RUH) v.v. flights as 7 weekly frequencies both, as of March 27, 2016. Turkish Airlines’ Ankara Esenboga (ESB) –Medina (MED) v.v. flights have also started on March 27, 2016, as 7 weekly frequencies. Trabzon (TZX)- Riyadh (RUH) v.v. flights will start on March 29, 2016, as 3 weekly frequencies. From Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST), Turkish Airlines currently operates 21 weekly frequencies to Jeddah, 14 Turkish Airlines announced the weekly frequencies to both Medina start of new flights from Istanbul and Riyadh. Turkish Airlines operates Sabiha Gokcen, Ankara Esenboga and 10 weekly frequencies (14 as of Trabzon Airports to three important June 2016) from IST and 7 weekly destinations in Saudi Arabia. They frequencies from SAW to Dammam. are Jeddah (JED), Medina (MED) and The national carrier is operating Riyadh (RUH). a total number of 7 destinations in Saudi Arabia, with our 7 weekly Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul Sabiha frequencies from IST to Yanbu, 5 Gokcen (SAW) – Medina (MED) weekly frequencies from IST to Al v.v. flights will be operated as 4 Qassim and 3 weekly frequencies frequencies per week and launched as of March 28, 2016. Turkish Airlines from IST to Ta’if. has already launched its Istanbul The mentioned flights are available Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)- Jeddah (JED) for sale via www.turkishairlines.com v.v. and Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen and scheduled as follows:

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SAW-MED-SAW FLT NBR

START

DAYS

TK 138

28.03.2016

1.34.6.

SAW

DEP 02:20

MED

TK 139

29.03.2016

.2.45.7

MED 03:20 07:00

SAW

22:55

ARR +1

All times are in LMT

SAW – JED – SAW FLT NBR

START

DAYS

DEP

ARR

TK 158

27.03.2016

1234567 SAW 22:30 02:15

JED

TK 159

27.03.2016

1234567 JED

SAW

03:15

07:15

All times are in LMT

SAW – RUH – SAW FLT NBR

START

DAYS

DEP

ARR

TK 146

27.03.2016

.2..5.7

SAW 19:50

00:05 RUH

TK 146

28.03.2016

1.34.6.

SAW 21:15

01:30

RUH

TK 147

29.03.2016

.2.4..7

RUH

03:15

07:30

SAW

TK 147

30.03.2016

..3.5..

RUH

06:20

10:35

SAW

TK 149

28.03.2016

1....6.

RUH

01:05

05:20

SAW

All times are in LMT

May 201625

Luxury Hotel

Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus

aking a difference with its view overlooking the Bosphorus in European side of the city “Conrad

Istanbul Bosphorus” brings the lights of Bosphorus and the city to you. The only luxurious hotel chain of Hilton Worldwide brand in Turkey, Conrad İstanbul Bosphorus entertains its guests for their business and vacation intentional travels with its luxurious and personalized services. Following completion of the major renovation project, Conrad İstanbul Bosphorus offers its guests a perfect stay with 553 new rooms including 76 suites, executive lounge, new activity area Bosphorus Lounge, brand new Manzara Restaurant and Health Club & SPA. Awarded as Europe’s Leading City Hotel by World Travel Awards 2015, Conrad İstanbul Bosporus’s totally new luxury rooms and suites extends everything you need to have a perfect stay experience. Guests of executive rooms & suites can enjoy added privileges at the new executive lounge, where one can also spend time enjoying the TV, internet, newspapers and

26May 2016

magazines. All rooms & suites features iHome Dock and Nespress coffee machine and all suites have iSound music system. In the direction of “personalized service approach” Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus. The guests can customize their luxury experience by individually selecting one of four distinct bath amenities from our diverse and indulgent lineup – Aromatherapy Associates, Shanghai Tang, Tara Smith Vegan Hair Care and The Refinery for men. Guests can take advantage of innovative technological services of the hotel as well. “Conrad Concierge mobile application helps guests experience a hassle free check-in, order food from room service or book airport transfer services through their mobile phones. their airport transfers and order food from the room service. Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus hosts special places and addresses different tastes. Manzara Restaurant features excellent Mediterranean cuisine and exquisite wines to experience an intimate meal with amazing views overlooking

to Historical Peninsula. Summit Bar & Terrace which is located on the 14th floor of Conrad İstanbul Bosphorus has fascinating views of the city and the Bosphorus. You can feel that your senses awaken again at Summit Bar& Terrace with rich alcoholic beverage options coming from many different points of the world, a creative food menu and many cocktail types. Awarded as “Turkey’s Leading Conference Hotel” by World Travel Awards in 2013, 2014 and 2015, the Hotel is absolutely the ultimate venue for any type of event. The conference centre features 3‚000 m2 of function space on three connecting floors for a seamless flow of activities. Outdoor venue, the Panoramic Terrace, adds an ideal environment for cocktails, dinner, and special events set against stunning views of the old city. The new private function area, Bosphorus Lounge, offering panoramic

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Bosphorus view from the 15th floor, will make your events unforgettable and perfect. Conrad İstanbul Bosphorus has started to operate since the begining of February in Health Club & SPA. It serves to relax, spoil, comfort and stop your everyday troubles. Whether you are seeking serenity in the city center Health Club &

SPA will offer you an essential facility with the single & couples massage rooms, Turkish bath, sauna, steam rooms, shock shower and relaxing rooms Through the centuries of beauty and personal care procedures Health Club & SPA modernize all rituals of “Charme D’Orient” and offers you.

Moreover Health Club & SPA offers you classic Spa massages and beaty treatments with the experianced and professional therapists of Spa Soul. Health Club & SPA openning it’s doors to you and offers a special discount untill the 30th of April for all services.

Suite Priviliges in Conrad İstanbul Bosphorus The suite rooms offer a wide range of extra services to make sure you experience an unforgettable stay in Istanbul. Conrad İstanbul Bosphorus’ services start as soon as you land in Istanbul. The greeters welcome you at the exit of your airplane and accompany you through a fast-track passport and visa control gates. You will not have to wait at the long queues at the passport checks.

You will then be transferred to the hotel with a luxury BMW or Mercedes car. Once you arrive to the hotel, you will directly go up to your room without waiting at the reception. All check-in procedures will be handled in your room. The suite guests have access to our Executive Lounge where we offer complimentary breakfast, beverages and snacks all day long.

You will also benefit from complimentary ironing for 3 pieces during your stay. If you are staying for business and need a meeting room, you can use a meeting room for 2 hours for 5 people free of charge. Moreover, the suites are decorated with fresh flowers and place luxury bathroom amenities for ladies and gentlemen.

Services List (except Family Suite): ✓ Arrival airport transfer and prime class fast track arrival service (prime class fast track arrival service only valid for Ataturk Airport) ✓ In-room check-in ✓ Executive lounge access ( also applicable to Executive Room guests) ✓ 2 hours complimentary meeting room usage up to 5 people (upon availability) ( also applicable to Executive Room guests) ✓ Complimentary ironing service up to 3 pieces ( also applicable to Executive Room guests) ✓ Special VIP set-up and fresh flowers in the room ✓ Luxurious personalized bathroom amenities ( 2 types one for ladies and one for men)

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May 201627

Exhibition

ATM-Dubai at last year ATM 2015 which was held at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre in May 4-7. ATM is the most popular annual travel and tourism event in the region. Designed to

28ď źMay 2016

unlock the business potential within the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals, ATM has been held annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre for 19 years and

counting. With over 2,500 exhibitors, and 15,000 meetings set at the 2014 event, ATM is the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier travel trade forum and exhibition.

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May 2016ď ź29

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