2 MAY 2015
ISSUE 286
16,000 NEW UNITS IN RIYADH AND JEDDAH THE RITZ-CARLTON, JEDDAH, THE COMPANY'S SECOND HOTEL IN SAUDI ARABIA, IS SET TO WELCOME ITS FIRST GUESTS LATE SUMMER..
08 ROTANA JET REVEALS AGGRESSIVE EXPANSION PLAN
20 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE
02
TECHNOLOGY
03
ACCOMMODATION
12
AIR
20
RENDEZVOUS
25
INTERNATIONAL
26
AGENT CORNER
27
TRAVEL TALK
28
TRAVEL CHANNELS
29
WHO’S MOVED
30
PHOTO ALBUM
31
NEWS & EVENTS
32
RITZ-CARLTON BRINGS TIMELESS LUXURY TO JEDDAH
16
MARKET UPDATE
Challenging March for Dubai Hoteliers Supply growth continued to outpace demand in Dubai, resulting in mixed results for the destination′s hoteliers in March.
TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba CONTRIBUTORS Ana Mladenovic Valentini Stavrou PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB DEVELOPER / IT Soteris Constantinou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS
A
lthough demand rose 4.5 percent, this proved to be insufficient against the 6.9 percent increase in supply, leading to a 2.2 percent drop in occupancy to 85.7 percent, a 6.1 percent decline in average daily rate (ADR) to AED978.69 (USD266.44), weighting down RevPAR by 8.1 percent to AED838.69 (USD228.33). “Supply has been increasing at levels in excess of 6.2 percent for the last 15 months,” noted Elizabeth Winkle, managing director, STR Global, stressing that new supply is crucial to the destination’s long-term success. “Additionally, despite the 2.2 percent drop in occupancy, levels continued to exceed 85 percent in March for the sixth consecutive month,” concluded Winkle.
Di
2
now. . k u o y d
, 020 d By 2 expecte y s i n i a a Dub ave as mhotel to h 0, 000 6 as 1 rooms?
T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA EXCHANGE RATES As of
30/4/2015
Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar
COUNTRY
CURRENCY 1USD=
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.39
Qatar (QAR)
Rial
3.64
Saudi Arabia (SAR) Riyal
3.75
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
97.19
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.62
Iran (IRR)
Rial
28,370.00
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,151.60
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,508.00
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.35
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.77
Syria (SYP)
Pound
188.93
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.93
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.89
2 MAY 2015
TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS Visa Brings New Retail Congress to MENA
G
lobal payments technology company, Visa hosted the first Strategic Retailer Congress in the region for retailers, acquirers and industry stakeholders in late April. The event looked at issues such as solutions to drive customer loyalty and recruitment, customer protection and growth through omni-channel conver-
gence, all of which can be enabled through new payment technologies. Ihab Ayoub, group country manager, MENA, Visa, said, “With local businesses already converted or in the process of crossing over to tap into the growing digital customer base, payment solutions such as Visa Checkout, Tokenization and mobile point of sales are gaining relevance more than ever before.”
Amadeus to Outline Future of Regional Travel
T
rade visitors to Amadeus’ stand at the Arabian Travel Market will gain first-hand experience of the upgraded Selling Platform Connect (SELCO), a fully online professional booking and fulfilment platform. With customisation and personalisation as its key attributes, SELCO promises to provide travel agencies with access to their customers’ bookings from anywhere in the world, from any device with Internet connection. The company will also release its recent Middle East Online Travel Review, which includes insights on hybrid travel agencies that sell across both online and offline channels. The report will also offer a micro analysis for hotels looking at brand affiliation and the impact of online penetration.
2 MAY 2015
3
WEEKLY NEWS AGENTS
Gulf Air Flies Omani Media and Agents to Athens
Participants at the trip
Gulf Air transported a number of Muscat-based media members and tour operators to Greece on a familiarisation trip that was jointly hosted with Athens-based Aktina Travel Services.
4
T
he visit gave guests the opportunity to experience Gulf Air’s product offerings and services both onboard and at the airline’s hub, Bahrain International Airport. The carrier operates four weekly flights from Muscat to Athens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Hertz Rent A Car Selects dnata
H
ertz Rent A Car has appointed dnata as its exclusive outbound general sales agent (GSA) representative for the travel trade industry in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. The new three-year strategic partnership adds two more GCC countries to the travel management company’s existing representation of the car rental expert. Outbound Hertz Rent A Car business from Saudi Arabia rose 24.8 percent yearon-year from January to December 2014, with the US, France, Germany, UAE, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, UK, Qatar and South Africa topping the list. As Michel Taride, group president, Hertz International, noted, the partnership is set to further support the company’s five-year regional growth strategy.
2 MAY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS
Shurooq Fosters UAE – UK Ties In line with its strategy to strengthen cooperation with international economic and investment bodies, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Arab-British Chamber of Commerce (ABCC).
U
nder the terms of the agreement, which was inked during Shurooq’s recent three-day UK road show, the two entities will work together to encourage, promote and facilitate investment and development cooperation among the business communities in Sharjah and the UK. Another goal is to coordinate, establish and expand a business network that enables these communities to leverage the financial opportunities available in both countries. In addition, Shurooq and ABCC also aim to assist each other in organising and participating in trade fairs, exhibitions, conferences and seminars.
2 MAY 2015
The signing ceremony
Qatar: Double-digit Increase in Arrivals
F
uelled by a 28 percent rise in figures from Saudi Arabia, international visitor numbers to Qatar surged 11 percent in the first quarter (Q1) of the year. During the three-month period, a total of 841,025 people flocked into the country, with arrivals from the Americas up 17 percent and from the GCC up 16 percent. Consequently, occupancy rates rose eight percent to 82 percent; average room rates (ARR) on the other hand dropped one percent. As Hassan Al Ibrahim, chief tourism development officer, Qatar Tourism Authority, pinpointed, this March witnessed the largest monthly influx of arrivals in the country’s history.
5
WEEKLY NEWS Al Maryah Island Presented to Cityscape Delegation
UAE Pursues Czech and Slovak Partnerships
Delegation at Al Maryah Island
D
6
I
n the framwork of the recent real estate networking event, Cityscape Abu Dhabi, a visitors’ delegation took part in an exclusive tour of Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi’s International Financial Center (IFC) and the home of Abu Dhabi Global Market. Participants were also presented with development opportunities and land plots available for sale. Ali Eid AlMheiri, executive director, Mubadala Real Estate & Infrastructure, commented, “We are pleased to showcase Al Maryah Island and its assets to potential investors during Cityscape Abu Dhabi, particularly our commercial towers at Abu Dhabi Global Market Square. With a significant shortage of GradeA commercial space in the capital at present, there is a growing demand for higher quality space.”
ubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry toured the Czech Republic and Slovakia seeking cooperation between the country and the European states in the fields of tourism, trade and real estate. On the sidelines of the Czech – UAE Business Forum, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Lootah Group and the Czech Eden Group to partner in healthcare and medical tourism. Commenting on the potential between the countries, H.E. Hamad Buamim, CEO, Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, expressed his hope to encourage stronger business cooperation and two-way investment across key economic sectors. To promote joint economic relations a Czech Business Council was set up under the umbrella of the chamber.
2 MAY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS 16,000 New Units in Riyadh and Jeddah
Qatar Focusses on Sports Tourism
Q S
ome 16,000 hotel rooms are expected to come on line in Riyadh and Jeddah by 2018. According to a Jones Lang LaSalle’s report, more than half of these will form part of five-star projects, as international companies continue to expand their footprint across the Kingdom with Accor planning nearly 10 new hotels and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) developing nine properties. In Jeddah,
8
2,700 units are set to open this year alone. As Pascal Gauvin, chief operating officer, India, Middle East and Africa, IHG, noted, the Saudi domestic tourism sector is projected to grow 400 percent to some 640 million nights by 2019, hence the company’s focus on the country, which, as Gauvin said, boasts the highest number of IHG hotels in the Middle East.
atar Tourism Authority and Josoor Institute, a centre of excellence dedicated to the delivery of professional training and education for the sports and events industries in MENA, hosted two development workshops on sports tourism. Over 100 professionals attended the first event, which, under the title Sports Tourism - A Comprehensive Overview, provided an analysis of the industry. The workshop highlighted how sports tourism manifests itself in different regions of the world and examined several case studies on the subject. The second initiative proved to be equally successful in throwing the spotlight on Implications of Mega Events for Tourism and Hospitality.
2 MAY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS
S
harjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) visited Taiwan as well as Shanghai to meet with potential business partners and participate in The World’s Investment Summit in the Chinese city. The authority was joined by Sharjah Economic Development Department and Sharjah Healthcare City. Mohamed Al Musharrkh, head of investment promotion, Shurooq, said, “We are delighted [...] to showcase Sharjah’s unique attractions as an investment destination to the foremost business organisations.” He stressed that the main intention was to present the emirate’s many investment opportunities and incentives, highlight key sectors and bring attention to the numerous projects that Shurooq has brought to life.
Next Generation Prayer Calculator Launched
H
alal travel specialist, HalalTrip has introduced a multifunctional next generation prayer calculator. By combining science with the latest in technology, the application enables Muslim travellers to track their prayer times while on the go, whether on land, air or sea. With just a click, the calculator provides a list of all the mosques in the area along with the estimated time taken to reach them from the user’s location. In addition, the app helps determine the time to reach the hotel, advising whether or not the guest will make it there on time for prayers. Other advantages of HalalTrip include a Halal food spotting feature and a collection of prayers in both English and Arabic.
HalalTrip
Shurooq delegation during the visit
Shurooq Visits Taiwan and Shanghai
U
S tourism to Morocco experienced a 19 percent increase over the past four years, with nearly 229,000 American travellers visiting the country in 2014, a fact which Seattle-based Access Trips corroborates since bookings for culinary tours to Morocco are ever-popular. Having grown by 43 percent in the last three years, Access Trips’ culinary offering to the North African country embodies a blend of Arabic, Berber, French and Spanish influences. Starting in vibrant Casablanca and ending in Marrakech with coastal, mountain and rural visits along the way, the tour is an immersion in the foods and traditions of Morocco, while during the trip, guests will learn to cook authentic local cuisine from experienced chefs.
10
Moroccan delights
Morocco Becomes Popular with US Travellers
2 MAY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Suites in the SKAI Rebranded as Viceroy Hotel
IHG Brings Hotel Indigo to the UAE
W
orks are already underway and the hotel is set to open in 2018. It will feature 247 rooms and suites, 221 one- and two-bedroom apartments and 33 four-bedroom units with private pools, all of which will offer landscaped green balcony gardens thanks to a vertical microclimate design. Other facilities include 271 sky-high swimming pools, floating bathtubs, a gym and fitness centre with outdoor yoga terrace, sauna and steam room and a boutique spa.
12
Viceroy Dubai Jumeirah Village
Dubai-based SKAI Holdings will upgrade its Suites in the SKAI property, located in Jumeirah Village Circle, to a five-star luxury property named Viceroy Dubai Jumeirah Village.
I
nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) revealed plans to introduce its boutique brand to the UAE with Hotel Indigo Dubai scheduled to open in 2017. Located in the Business Bay District, the 285-room property will cater to well-travelled guests looking for a unique and individual experience combined with an extensive list of facilities. Pascal Gauvin, chief operating officer, India, Middle East and Africa, IHG, deemed Hotel Indigo to be one of the fastest growing boutique hotel brands in the world. The project, developed in partnership with Sunflower, will join Hotel Indigo Riyadh King Abdullah Financial District, which is due to open in 2016.
2 MAY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Rotana to Run Saadiyat Hotel Apartments
MHG Partners with Qatari Diar
Park View Hotel Apartments
M R
eal estate developer, Bloom Holding has chosen Rotana to operate its 188-key hotel apartments project within the Park View mixed-use development in the university neighbourhood of Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi. Slated for opening in 2017, the property will feature studios, one- and two-bedroom units and executive apartments. Guests will also benefit from access to the project’s plethora of commercial and leisure facilities, including an infinity edge pool, 30m above the ground. Reiterating the company’s commitment to the UAE capital, Omer Kaddouri, CEO, Rotana, underlined that Abu Dhabi remains a focus market for the group, which aims to operate 100 hotels by 2020.
inor Hotel Group (MHG), in collaboration with Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, is to launch two new Anantara resorts in North Africa in 2017. The new-build Anantara Tozeur Resort will be a luxury escape in the southwest of Tunisia, offering 93 rooms and villas, a selection of restaurants, meeting and business facilities, kids’ clubs, a health centre and a spa. The 230-key Anantara Al Houara Tangier Resort in northern Morocco will be part of the extensive Al Houara project which the Qatari company is developing along 2.5km of beach front. It will also include a signature 18hole golf course with a golf club and residential homes for sale.
Hampton by Hilton to Debut in the Middle East
H
ilton Worldwide has partnered with wasl hospitality & leisure to introduce the mid-market Hampton by Hilton brand to the region. Hailed as the largest Hampton project under development anywhere in the world, the 420key Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Qusais will be located in close proximity to Dubai International’s Terminal 2 and will welcome its first guests in 2017; the same year as the newly-announced 166-room Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Al Garhoud. As Hesham Al Qassim, CEO, wasl Asset Management Group, noted, the new developments are in line with the government’s endeavour to further diversify the destination’s hotel scene.
Saraya Bandar Jissah Signs Second Hotel
T
he developer of the luxurious integrated tourism complex in Oman, Saraya Bandar Jissah awarded Habtoor Leighton Group a contract to construct the second five-star hotel located on the beachfront of Bandar Jissah bay. The property, due to open in 2017, will offer 112 rooms and will be modelled on the traditional Omani village architecture, structured around three levels with different heights flowing down to the beach level. Sheikh Hamood bin Sultan Al Hosni, CEO, Saraya Bandar Jissah, said, “The second five-star hotel managed by Jumeirah Group is expected to add great value to the tourism industry of the Sultanate.”
14
2 MAY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
RITZ-CARLTON BRINGS TIMELESS LUXURY TO JEDDAH
The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah rendering
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company will open its second property in Saudi Arabia late summer. The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah is the latest addition to the company’s portfolio, situated over 32,000m2 of land on Al Hamra Corniche.
T
he new project will feature impressive architecture across 224 guest rooms which include 30 royal suites spanning 500m2 each. Herve Humler, president, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, commented, “This region is critical towards the achievement of our strategic goal of reaching 100 hotels globally and we are fortunate to have strong partners who share our vision.” He added that the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah is a much anticipated milestone as it not only introduces signature standards but also emphasises the company’s commitment to the Kingdom.
Dubai to Welcome Middle East’s First Delano Hotel
M
organs Hotel Group has partnered with IFA Hotels & Resorts to bring the Delano brand to the region with Delano Dubai set to open in 2017. The 110-key deluxe hotel apartment property will form part of a mixed-use resort development, The8, on Palm Jumeirah. Jason Kalisman, interim CEO, Morgans Hotel Group, deemed Dubai to be the ideal destination to debut Delano in the region. “The location and resort concept speaks to the Delano guest experience of providing an oasis of sensuality and soul, and where sophistication and ease seamlessly blend with timeless design,” added Kalisman.
First Radisson Red to Open in EMEA
R
adisson Red is set to launch its first-ever hotel in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) in the capital city of South Africa. Expected to open in late 2016, the project will be a part of the Silo District V&A Waterfront. Ideally located near Cape Town International Airport and Cape Town International Convention Centre, Radisson Red Hotel V&A Waterfront will accommodate guests in 235 rooms and it will also offer its signature bar and deli. The property’s rooftop will be hosting a bar, garden terrace and swimming pool. With the brand’s entry into the country, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s presence will be further strengthened as the company currently operates five hotels in Cape Town.
16
2 MAY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Al Bustan Centre & Residence Project Showcased
I
ndustry partners will receive firsthand information on Al Bustan Centre & Residence’s recent USD4 million renovation at the upcoming Arabian Travel Market. The project, which kicked off in early 2014 and concluded in the last quarter of the year, included all the 640 rooms as well as various facilities to ensure high guest satisfaction and give the property a competitive edge in Dubai’s fast-expanding hotel scene. According to Moussa El Hayek, chief operating officer, Al Bustan Centre & Residence, the development has taken the hotel to new heights, securing larger shares from crucial markets, such as the GCC, Far East, Eastern Europe and China.
Saudi Arabia: First Specialised Heritage Hotel
T
TIME to Add Second Qatari Hotel
T
he foundation stone was laid for Samhan Hotel, hailed as the first specialised heritage hotel in the Kingdom. The development in the historic Dir’iya is considered the first fruit of the projects of the Saudi Heritage Hospitality Company, which was set up by the Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA). As H.R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president, SCTA, revealed, the initiative will soon be followed by similar projects across the Kingdom including those of Islamic history, in addition to a number of other archaeological landmarks and monuments relating to successive historic periods.
IME Hotels continues its fastpaced expansion, which has seen the company almost double its portfolio in the past 12 months, with the announcement of a new property in Qatar. Located in Al Khail, 10 minutes from Hamad International Airport, the 142-room TIME Plaza Hotel is scheduled to welcome its first guests in the first quarter of 2017. The company’s second project in Qatar will feature two restaurants and a contemporary meeting space for up to 40 guests. Currently under development, two other properties, TIME Royal Hotel & Spa, Dubai and TIME Rako Hotel, Qatar are slated for opening in the second quarter of 2016.
Millennium Hotel Fujairah
Millennium Hotel Fujairah Launched
18
A
s part of its extensive regional expansion drive, Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East and Africa (MEA) has opened Millennium Hotel Fujairah. Set against the backdrop of the Hajjar Mountains, the 20-storey property features 221 rooms and suites and boasts direct access to Fujairah Mall. Guests of the upscale hotel can also take advantage of five dining options, a health club and spacious meeting facilities. As Ali Hamad Lakhraim Alzaabi, CEO, Millennium & Copthorne Hotels MEA, pinpointed, Fujairah’s accessibility from Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah airports, along with the country’s excellent road network, make it a popular long weekend and vacation getaway for both local UAE residents and GCC visitors.
2 MAY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Rotana Jet Reveals Aggressive Expansion Plan Rotana Jet is introducing new destinations and increasing frequencies to its existing destinations.
T
he carrier’s expansion reached new heights on April 23 with the launch of flights between Abu Dhabi and Beirut, its first destination in the Levant and the 11th worldwide. Rotana Jet also intends to operate daily services to Doha and points in Egypt in the coming months. In addition, frequencies on existing routes, including Salalah, Muscat and Kuwait have also been increased. “The already significant demand for air travel services between Abu Dhabi and other cities is expected to grow further in tandem with the many developments in the UAE and Rotana Jet is proud to play a contributing role in connecting the capital, Abu Dhabi with other cities, be it domestic, regional and international,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saif Al Nahyan, chairman, Rotana Jet.
Etihad Airways Lands in Spain
C
elebrating yet another milestone in its global expansion, Etihad Airways has launched direct nonstop flights to Madrid, Spain. Speaking at the inauguration of the route, James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, commented, “Our new Madrid service gives Spanish business and leisure travellers greater access to the UAE with a total of 2,096 weekly seats on offer. It also provides convenient two-way connections via our Abu Dhabi hub to important markets on Etihad Airways’ strong global network.” The service is operated four times per week on an Airbus A330-200 with a total of 262 seats in a two-class configuration.
20
flynas Expands Fleet with New A320s
S
audi Arabian carrier, flynas will add two Airbus A320 airliners to its 24-strong fleet in order to bolster its operations. Bandar Al-Muhanna, CEO, Nas Holding, revealed that the two jets will enter service in June and October, respectively. “We give great priority to domestic flights, and work hard to expand domestic routes to serve as many guests as possible,” he said. “Seeing how much growth there is in the market and the ever-growing demand on some routes, we plan to add even more jets to our fleet in 2016. We have successfully boosted our capabilities to the point where we can offer comprehensive services to our guests and enable them to enjoy a good flying experience […],”AlMuhanna added.
2 MAY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS AIR Qatar Airways Increases Larnaca Operations
flydubai Expands in Russia
R
esponding to the continuous rise in passenger demand, Qatar Airways will operate additional services to Cyprus during the busy summer months. Starting June 3, Qatar’s national airline will offer daily flights between Doha’s stateof-the-art Hamad International Airport and Larnaca. The extra frequencies will be offered up until October 24, when the route will revert back to its regular schedule. Reinforcing the carrier’s commitment to developing access to popular leisure and business destinations, Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “Our most current frequency increases in the Middle East and Europe will provide our passengers with more flexibility and choice when it comes to planning their travel for both themselves and their families.”
f
lydubai is to launch services to Novosibirsk and Nizhniy Novgorod, reinforcing the company’s commitment to Russia. According to Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai, the addition of the two new routes marks an important milestone in the airline’s operations in Russia and brings the total number of destinations served by the carrier in the country to 10. “Both Russian cities are established economic hubs in the regions and we hope that our direct flights from Dubai will help to open up their tourist and business opportunities to travellers from the Middle East,” added Al Ghaith. The thrice-weekly service to Novosibirsk and the twice-weekly flight to Nizhniy Novgorod will commence on October 4 and October 7, respectively.
Emirates Adds Second A380 Service to Gatwick
I
n response to strong demand, Emirates has introduced a second daily Airbus A380 flight to London’s Gatwick Airport. Since the aircraft’s first deployment in March 2014, over 330,000 customers have already flown with it to and from the UK hub and the launch of the second flight will add 318 seats per day, significantly enhancing travel options between Dubai and the European capital. “With the world’s busiest single runaway and a constant flow of passengers from London’s South East, it is important that we offer travellers the best possible connections to worldwide destinations; the new Emirates A380 service allows us to do just that,” explained Stewart Wingate, CEO, Gatwick Airport.
22
2 MAY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS AIR Qatar Executive Targets Asian Corporate Segment
Amman
Qatar Executive
Q
atar Executive continues to grow its international footprint and is looking to attract corporations and high-net-worth individuals from Asia. As Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, revealed, the company sees great potential in the continent. “As Asian corporations continue to expand their businesses, they are looking for the most convenient and efficient means of travel to spur their international corporate growth,” said Al Baker. To meet the requirements of the market, Qatar Executive has adjusted its in-flight experience and customers can now request to be served by Mandarin and Cantonesespeaking VIP cabin attendants, who are familiar with local customs and etiquette.
UIA to Fly to Amman
A
s part of its summer schedule, Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) will commence nonstop scheduled services between Kiev and Amman. Effective from June 16, the Ukrainian carrier will operate three weekly flights to the Jordanian capital onboard a Boeing 737 aircraft in a two-class configuration. As Evgeniya Satska, corporate press secretary, UIA, explained, the launch of the route forms part of the company’s east-bound expansion drive. “Systematically and proactively developing the model of a transit carrier from East to West, UIA aspires to balance its route network and offer passengers comparable choice of east- and west-bound travel opportunities,” added Satska.
SAUDIA Begins Implementation of EFB Project
S
audi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) has started applying its Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) initiative on all its routes. EFB is an electronic display device intended for flight deck crew use, equipped with charts, performance data and manuals to help manage flight tasks more easily and efficiently in a paperless environment. The national flag carrier has already distributed 1,650 copies of EFB in the form of iPads among flight deck crew members after providing them with the required information. The project is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year with the provision of all the necessary information, programmes and applications in EFB devices. After authorisation from the General Authority of Civil Aviation, SAUDIA flights will have fully-paperless cockpits.
24
2 MAY 2015
RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with Tareq Derbas GENERAL MANAGER, THE ST. REGIS DOHA
Service is discreet, personalised, anticipatory attention [...], allowing travellers to savour the rarest of all luxuries – time. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What is next for the regional luxury travel market? TAREQ DERBAS: Keeping up with technology is the future and being quick to respond to new tech trends should be a major focus in staying connected with the guest, both when in and after they leave a hotel. In the Middle East, we are leading the world in hospitality technology development and, as a result, hotels are more able to delight guests. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: The Middle East is already home to a number of five-star establishments. Could supply growth outpace demand? TAREQ DERBAS: Europe, Africa and Middle East are the wealthiest regions in the world this year and, although there is more supply coming through, more people will be choosing Dubai,
Abu Dhabi and Doha as leisure destinations; especially the latter for the plethora of large sports events planned in the coming years. The turnaround of some of the more mature European feeder markets, like the UK, is providing a healthy proportion of occupancy and we expect this to continue as European economies improve. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How do you see the future of tourism in Qatar? TAREQ DERBAS: Qatar is gearing up for a vibrant touristic future. Positioned as a world class hub with cultural roots, it is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and a number of large projects are starting to come online to help accelerate the development of Qatar’s tourism industry. Qatar will continue to see growth in the number of travellers who are seeking a unique destination that offers memorable experiences based on an authentic exploration of local culture and heritage.
WHILE GUESTS HAVE THEIR OWN INTERPRETATION OF LUXURY, ACCORDING TO TAREQ DERBAS, GENERAL MANAGER, THE ST. REGIS DOHA, WHAT THEY ALL VALUE THE MOST IS TIME.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How has the definition of luxury changed over the years?
the recently launched open-air lounge, The Rooftop, is unique in Doha where live entertainment is scarce.
TAREQ DERBAS: Today the discerning leisure traveller seeks diversity of experience and excellence in service. We boast an enormous amount of entertainment, recreation and dining options under one roof. With 11 food and beverage outlets […], an exclusive beach and pool, private poolside cabanas and a full-service spa, The St. Regis Doha allows guests to remain in one place but experience a multitude of luxury options. The diversity we also offer with live music at Jazz at Lincoln Center and
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Many believe that luxury is all about tailormade services. What is your opinion?
2 MAY 2015
TAREQ DERBAS: I agree that guests require personalisation; this makes them feel special and identifies that we understand their needs. But a typical luxury traveller also values time. Our signature butler service provides that support to every guest with personalised and bespoke service around the clock. The essence of St. Regis Butler
25
WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
BWI Enters Yangon’s Chinatown
BEST WESTERN Chinatown Hotel
Best Western International (BWI) has launched a new hotel, BEST WESTERN Chinatown Hotel in Yangon’s vibrant centre.
T
he property offers 91 deluxe rooms, all featuring amenities such as flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and tea- and coffee-making facilities. BEST WESTERN Chinatown Hotel also provides an array of other amenities, including an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, fitness centre and business hub, plus three function rooms capable of hosting both small and large meeting events.
Corinthia Hotels Completes Water Projects in Africa
T
wo rural communities in Zambia and Tanzania have benefitted from the support of Corinthia Hotels, following the completion of clean water projects implemented by international water aid charity, Just a Drop. This marks a total of five Corinthia-supported Just a Drop initiatives which have brought life-changing clean water to a total of 45,325 children and families over the past three years. Fiona Jeffery, founder, Just a Drop, said, “The partnership has made a positive and real difference to people’s lives through the provision of clean water.”
Carlson Rezidor Brings Radisson Red to India
C
arlson Rezidor Hotel Group will launch its new Radisson Red hotel brand in India, a key market in which the company is already well-established. The introduction of the upscale lifestyle brand is part of the group’s aggressive expansion plans for the country. “Domestic travel is growing and international arrivals are on the increase. This is a market that is prime for our Radisson Red brand, which is positioned to address the needs of savvy travellers, while meeting the expectations of bottom line-focussed owners,” said Thorsten Kirschke, president, Asia Pacific, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. He added that the new product offers a differentiated guest experience, with lower construction and operating costs.
26
2 MAY 2015
AGENT CORNER
Agent’s Insight NAME:
Stephen Mwasio
POSITION:
CEO
COMPANY:
Inclusive Holidays Africa
LOCATION:
Kenya
WEBSITE:
www.inclusiveholidaysafrica.com
Who are you? I am a highly qualified leader offering more than 20 years hands-on experience in tour and travel operations within East and Southern Africa. In addition to running a successful tour business, Inclusive Holidays Africa, my long-term vision is to give form and structure to the main East and Southern Africa tourism industry and help the industry get its due recognition through conservation activities. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? Tourism is very dynamic and every day is a new challenge. I derive great satisfaction when I convert what was once a dream vacation in my guests′ mind to a memorable holiday of a lifetime. When is the best time to visit Kenya? East and Southern Africa is a safari destination that boasts great and unique wildlife game viewing opportunities throughout the year. We, however, experience long rains between April and June and a short rainy season in October and November. During this time most suppliers offer discounted rates that benefit the budget guest. […] Where would you like to travel for your next holiday? As a seasoned mountain climber, I wish to visit Nepal and climb Mount Everest. Why should people come to you for travel advice? I am very passionate about everything to do with tourism. I believe in Love what you are doing or do not do it. I am determined to set the highest standards of quality, value and integrity in travel. 2 MAY 2015
27
TRAVEL TALK
Industry recognition […] is indeed a privilege
HAWAZEN ESBER CEO, The Wave, Muscat
28
“Industry recognition in today’s increasingly competitive market is indeed a privilege. [Winning the Best Commercial Project at Construction Week Oman Awards] is a strong validation of our vision of delivering Oman’s lifestyle and leisure destination by bridging people, business and culture to create a worldclass waterfront community. The award […] is particularly gratifying as The Walk is at the heart of The Wave, Muscat community, catering to the needs of residents and visitors.”
The traditional is being contested and disrupted by the shock of the new
DAVID SCOWSILL President, World Travel & Tourism Council
“Observers over the years have prematurely announced the demise of charter airlines, tour operators, leisure travel agents, and global distribution systems – all of which have not only survived and thrived. Indeed, the dismantling of existing business models, fueled by today’s enabling digital technologies, is cutting a disruptive swathe through so much of our industry, from hotels to cruising to car rental to airlines. […] The fast growth of mobile applications is rapidly changing consumer habits, and not just amongst younger travellers.”
2 MAY 2015
TRAVEL CHANNELS
Al Ain Zoo Photo Competition Adds New Categories Al Ain Zoo’s annual photography and videography competition kicked off, and is to last until the end of May.
A
mateurs and professionals have the opportunity to showcase their creativity in six categories including At Play, Snackattack!, At Rest, Friendship, Poser and the zoo’s answer to selfies – Zoofies. Muna Al Dhaheri, chief of conservation and education, Al Ain Zoo, said, “Educating all our visitors, and especially the younger generation about animals and ensuring that wildlife and nature is a source of inspiration for them is a core commitment of Al Ain Zoo. This year, new categories were added to the competition, which gives us a great opportunity to further communicate our conservation efforts, and reward those who help us put these efforts in a picture.”
Sheikh Mohammed Enhances Aviation Safety in Dubai
H.
H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, has issued a law on aviation safety in the emirate, aimed at improving safety and security measures in the city’s airspace and enhancing smooth operations in line with international standards. Furthermore, the law organises the activities and profession in the civil aviation industry, applies best practices to ensure best usage of Dubai’s airspace and prohibits all acts that may endanger airplanes, airports or any facility related to aviation services. It also prescribes the penalties and fines imposed on violations and authorises the chairman of Dubai Executive Council to define those.
Rosewood Jeddah Marks Autism Awareness Day
I
n a bid to raise awareness of autism, Rosewood Jeddah has teamed up with Jeddah Autism Center, local cycling group Darrajati and Jeddah Cyclists to organise a six kilometre cycling event. Some 100 bikers gathered together for the Light It Up Blue initiative, which included a 90-minute ride along the city’s Northern Corniche and the release of blue balloons. During the celebrations at the hotel, every child with autism was awarded medals and certificates, while parents received a family voucher for Rosewood Jeddah’s Habsburg restaurant. “Autism is a condition very close to our hearts and one which has seen support from all our staff members,” said Hans Peter-Leitzke, managing director, Rosewood Jeddah.
Participants of the Autism Awareness Day campaign
2 MAY 2015
29
WHO’S MOVED
HAITHAM MISTO
Haitham Misto has been officially appointed by Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ)’ board of directors as the airline’s new president and CEO. Misto had been named and held the position of acting president and CEO in October 2014 after 33 years with the company. During his career, he has been in charge of various managerial as well as technical posts. Prior to taking the helm, he worked as head of the flight operations department. RJ’s board of directors has tasked Misto to lead the airline in the coming period and implement the company’s strategic plan which was developed to help the Jordanian carrier overcome the challenges ahead.
MESHARI AL BANNAI
RENATO MORETTO
Meshari Al Bannai has joined Dubai Airport’s executive team as senior vice president of human resources. In his capacity, Al Bannai will be instrumental in ensuring that the company remains an employer of choice, attracting world-class talent and keeping the more than 3,100 employees from 54 countries united around a common goal to successfully manage the emirate’s fast-growing hubs. Al Bannai brings with him several years of experience in various human resources roles at Dubai Airports, where he most recently served as vice president of human resources. Prior to joining the company, he also held similar roles at telecommunication company, du and Emirates.
Renato Moretto has been welcomed by Grosvenor House Apartments by Jumeirah Living as the property’s new general manager. With 39 years’ experience in the hospitality sector, Moretto joins Jumeirah Group from Al Bandary Hotel Management in Qatar, where he was group director of operations, supervising the development of seven properties. Prior to that, he worked as pre-opening general manager at Nungwi Resort & Spa in Tanzania, before which he was pre-opening general manager at Regency Hotel and Convention Centre in Kuwait. Moretto’s previous experience includes senior positions at Sonesta Pharaoh Beach Resort in Egypt, Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort on St. Maarten in the Netherlands Antilles and the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham.
Moretto is now part of Emirates Group′s team
30
2 MAY 2015
PHOTO ALBUM
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
A Chinese dragon visited Mubadala’s stand at Cityscape Abu Dhabi to celebrate the recent opening of Rosewood Abu Dhabi’s new restaurant
2 MAY 2015
Condorde Hotel Fujairah hosted the UAE Chess Championship junior competition
Four Seasons Hotel Doha celebrated 10 years in business
31
NEWS & EVENTS Kempinski Hotel Ajman Hosts Ajman Franchise Exhibition
A
global franchise event that attracted visitors from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe and the US, was held at Kempinski Hotel Ajman in April. Organised by the Ajman Chamber of Commerce, Ajman Franchising Expo aimed to provide an investment-friendly and business-oriented meeting environment where visitors could focus on generating sales leads, promoting brands, closing deals and showcasing concepts. With a total population of 297 million and a growth rate of three to five percent per year, the MENA region enjoys a franchise-friendly climate, with the industry's worth rising to over USD30 billion.
EVENTS THE HOTEL SHOW SAUDIA ARABIA Jeddah, Saudi Arabia May 03 – 05 www.thehotelshowsaudiarabia.com Now in its third year, the event addresses hospitality professionals in terms of technology, supplies, interiors as well as food and beverage offerings.
ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Dubai, UAE May 04 – 07 www.arabiantravelmarket.com Arabian Travel Market has provided a place to do face-toface business with companies from around the globe for the past 21 years, and this year′s edition promises to be even larger.
IMEX
Ajman Franchising Expo
Oman Showcased at Riyadh Travel Fair
Frankfurt, Germany May 19 – 21 www.imex-frankfurt.com A one-stop-shop for planners looking to book and organise worldwide meetings, events and incentive travel programmes.
O
man’s Ministry of Tourism participated in Riyadh Travel Fair to strengthen the Sultanate’s status as one of the region’s top tourist destinations for Saudi nationals. During its presence at the event, the ministry threw the spotlight on the diverse appeal of Omani tourist attractions, water and adventure sports, premium hotels and resorts, the southern city of Salalah and various ancient sites that are part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Oman attracted 12,908 tourists from Saudi Arabia, during the annual Khareef Festival hosted in Salalah in 2014.
32
CHINA GUILIN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM EXPO (CGITE) Guilin, China May 29 – 31 www.cgite.com.cn Part of Conference & Exhibition Management Services’ travel and tourism portfolio, CGITE brings together Chinese and international buyers and exhibitors in one dynamic marketplace.
2 MAY 2015