16 AUGUST 2014
ISSUE 249
NEW LULU MALL OPENED IN FUJAIRAH OMAN AIR HAS ANNOUNCED THAT IT WILL SERVE THE NEW OMANI REGIONAL AIRPORT AT DUQM WITH FOUR FLIGHTS PER WEEK, OPERATING ITS EMBRAER E-175 AIRCRAFT.
06 AL BUSTAN CENTRE & RESIDENCE TO HAVE A NEW LOOK
11 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE TECHNOLOGY RENDEZVOUS ACCOMMODATION CLASSIFIEDS AIR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL TALK AGENT CORNER TRAVEL CHANNELS WHO’S MOVED PHOTO ALBUM NEWS & EVENTS
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OMAN AIR TO SERVE NEW DUQM AIRPORT
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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of
MANAGING EDITOR
08/08/2014
Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar
ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba
COUNTRY
CURRENCY
1USD=
PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.15
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
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Pound
1,512.49
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
149.10
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.28
Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.38
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.72
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.36
Iran (IRR)
Riyal
26,434.00
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Rial
214.91
Algeria (DZD)
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80.31
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.23
WEB DEVELOPER / IT Soteris Constantinou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS 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
UAE and Saudi Arabia Lead Hotel Construction Pipeline The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region had 614 hotels representing 143,870 rooms under contract in June.
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o revealed STR Global’s Construction Pipeline report, which includes projects in the in-construction, planning and final planning stages. Among all the countries within MEA, the UAE and Saudi Arabia reported the most rooms under construction with 17,137 and 15,415 units, respectively. In addition, six other countries have more than 2,000 rooms, in the making, including Qatar (5,985), Jordan (3,241), Morocco (2,466), Egypt (2,379), Algeria (2,166) and Iraq (2,082).
Preferred Hotel Group: Growth in Q2
Marjan Island Resort & Spa
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referred Hotel Group announced second quarter (Q2) results indicating year-to-date increases of 23 percent in reservations revenue, 18 percent in room nights, and 20 percent in bookings for its member hotels, compared to the same period in 2013. During Q2 the company also welcomed new hotels across 12 different countries, including Grand Excelsior Hotel, Sharjah. ”I am very pleased with what we were able to accomplish over [those] three months. We expect this momentum to continue heading into the fall, with to-date bookings for our hotels in September already 21 percent higher than this time [in 2013] and several exciting development partnerships in the pipeline,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, president, Preferred Hotel Group.
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MARKET UPDATE Starwood Reports Second Quarter Results
Boeing: Strong Operating Performance in Q2
Starwood's Corporate Headquarters
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oeing has issued its second quarter (Q2) results, which registered core earnings per share (EPS) of USD2.42, reflecting strong performance and positive tax items. Higher commercial deliveries were also reflected in revenue of USD22 billion, whilst backlog was unchanged from the beginning of the quarter, remaining strong at USD440 billion with over 5,200 commercial airplane orders. ”Strong operating performance across our production programmes and services businesses drove revenue and earnings-per-share growth and healthy operating cash flow, which supported USD1.5 billion in additional share repurchases in the quarter,” observed Jim McNerney, chairman, Boeing.
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eported net income in the second quarter (Q2) for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide was USD153 million, up from USD137 million in Q2 of 2013. The period saw the signing of 45 hotel management and franchise contracts, with around 8,500 rooms and the opening of 19 hotels and resorts with approximately 3,800 rooms. Fritz van Paasschen, CEO, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, remarked, “As we look ahead to the balance of the year, we expect that global trend lines will fuel demand for high-end travel. Rising wealth, urbanisation, and digital connectivity [...] will drive demand for our brands”.
Boeing Headquarters, Chicago
Dubai International Passenger Numbers up in H1
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ubai International has recorded an increase of 6.2 percent in passenger numbers during the first half (H1) of this year, compared with H1 2013. However, total aircraft movements were down 27 percent from those recorded in June 2013. The drop was a result of a planned reduction in flights as the airport's capacity was reduced to a single runway. The airport is now back to full operations with both runways reopened, paving the way for renewed growth towards the end of the year. “H1 numbers are impressive given the capacity reductions we put in place to allow us to conduct vital upgrades to both runways at our hub,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports.
Dubai International
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WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY
SITA Gets Smart with Boarding Passes
Amadeus Deploys New Booking Platform
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SITA continues to bring out innovations in the use of wearable technology by providing boarding passes for Android watches.
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simple alert via Android Wear technology will remind the passenger of their flight at the appropriate time and location. A quick swipe reveals the boarding pass and a second one displays the barcode allowing the passenger to get through the airport checkpoints and board the plane. Jim Peters, chief technology officer, SITA, said, “SITA’s boarding pass is fully compliant with international
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regulations and so can be used at airports across the world. We have made this available through our industry API platform so it will be interesting to see which airlines will be the early adopters.” SITA’s boarding pass API is already in use at major airlines including JetBlue Airways and Virgin Atlantic is predicted to become indispensable in the future.
madeus, a provider of advanced technology solutions for the global travel industry, continues to roll out its new generation Amadeus Selling Platform Connect. Hailed as the industry’s first fully online professional booking platform, Amadeus has used its technological expertise to design a solution that adapts to the changing requirements of travellers, and therefore, the requirements of travel agencies. The new platform enables agencies to anticipate traveller needs while reducing their support and running costs. Travel agencies can access customer bookings from anywhere in the world and from any device with an Internet connection.
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TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS Amadeus to Enter Chinese Market through Alipay
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madeus, one of the major technology providers in the worldwide travel industry, has reached a strategic collaboration to integrate Alipay into the Amadeus Payment Platform (APP). Alipay is hailed as the most trusted online payment service provider in China, and this strategic move to provide its customers with Alipay’s online payment feature, allows Amadeus travel providers to enter the world’s greatest tourism market. “Our travel payment expertise, combined with Alipay’s market penetration and the ease of using Alipay’s products, will provide our customers with the right solution to meet Chinese payment demands,” attested Celia Pereiro, head, Amadeus Travel Payments, head of travel payments, Amadeus.
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Air India: 50th Airline to Sign Up with Travelport
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ravelport, one of the leading global travel commerce platforms, announced a significant merchandising milestone as Air India became the 50th airline to join Travelport Rich Content and Branding. Kurt Ekert, chief commercial officer, Travelport, commented, “The signing of 50 airlines for our Rich Content and Branding technology is a testament that our airline partners fully support and share our views on the way forward in how fares and ancillaries are presented to travel agents.” Ekert also pointed out how access to rich content will allow travel agents to influence customers’ purchasing decisions and increase up-sell and cross-sell opportunities.
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WEEKLY NEWS
New LuLu Mall Opened in Fujairah LuLu Group International launched its newest shopping centre in Fujairah.
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he mall opened on July 24 and was inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, crown prince of Fujairah, in the presence of royal family members, government dignitaries, local business representatives and many residents of the city. The shopping complex is located in the centre of the city and is spread across 51.6m2 on two levels. Ample parking space and more than 100 local and international fashion, leisure, dining and entertainment brands are available to visitors. After the inauguration, Al Sharqi toured various sections of the newly-built mall and Lulu hypermarket, congratulating the developers on its successful completion and on providing a great family shopping destination to the citizens and residents of the emirate.
LuLu Mall Fujairah
Bahrain
Bahrain’s Ministry of Culture Preserves Tradition
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E. Shaihka Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, minister of culture, Bahrain, has paid an inspection visit to the old Muharraq Suq and the site of Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. The field visit included the Pearling Path of Bahrain with its 17 renovated houses along the way, including AlGhoos House, the home of a pearl diver. The house will accommodate an exhibition allowing visitors to experience the living conditions of lower income members of society during the late pearling era. Every house traces back to the pearl diving and trade era, which brought wealth to the island prior to the 1930’s. Al Khalifa underlined the importance of Bahrain’s historical traditional markets, as a means of keeping a record of the country’s economic and social history.
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WEEKLY NEWS IATA Joins Efforts to Improve Safety over Conflict Zones
Airbus Group Shows Continued Progress in Half-year Results
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irbus Group has reported solid results for the first half (H1) of the year with strong demand for the group’s products, as illustrated at July’s Farnborough Air Show where Airbus announced 496 aircraft orders and commitments. ”[H1] was all about keeping our main development and series programmes on track and implementing our restructuring plans in defence and space,” said Tom Enders, CEO, Airbus Group. “This is shown in the solid improvement in revenues and profitability.” Group revenues increased six percent over H1 2013 to EUR27.20 billion (USD36.41 billion) driven by Airbus Commercial Aircraft and Airbus Helicopters.
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Boeing Foresees Demand for 1.1 Million Pilots and Technicians
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n the aftermath of the shooting-down of MH17 over Ukraine, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) joined with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Airports Council International (ACI) and the Civil Air Navigation Services Organization (CANSO) in a declaration committing the parties to review processes for the overflight of conflict zones. The industry has called on ICAO to address the critical need for fail-safe channels to disseminate threat information. Tony Tyler, director general, IATA, stated, “It is essential that airlines receive clear guidance regarding threats to their passengers, crew and aircraft.”
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oeing has released its 2014 Pilot and Technician Outlook, which predicts a significant rise in the need for commercial pilots and technicians from 2014 to 2033. According to the report, the aviation market will require 533,000 new commercial airline pilots, and 584,000 commercial airline maintenance technicians. ”The challenge of meeting the global demand for airline professionals […] can only be solved by [the participation of ] all of the parties involved; airlines, aircraft and training equipment manufacturers, training delivery organisations, regulatory agencies and educational institutions around the world,” observed Sherry Carbary, vice president, Boeing Flight Services.
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RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What makes Turkey a key market for the group? ROMAIN AVRIL: Turkey is a market of strategic importance for Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. [In Turkey] all the ingredients are present to justify our ambitious targets; these include a market of critical mass, perfect geographical location between Russia and the CIS, Europe and Middle East, strong GDP growth in the last 10 years – at an average of five percent over the period between 2002 and 2012, industrialised landscape and so on. Our objective is to double the portfolio by 2020 with approximately 30 hotels in operation and under development. We aim to expand significantly the Park Inn by Radisson brand and introduce our new brands, Radisson Red and Quorvus Collection into the Turkish market.
Q & A with Romain Avril
VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, CARLSON REZIDOR HOTEL GROUP
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Over the past years, the company’s Turkish expansion focussed on the Radisson Blu and Park Inn by Radisson brands. What makes these brands the perfect fit for the Turkish market? ROMAIN AVRIL: Our Radisson Blu hotels are predominantly located in Istanbul. Istanbul is a mega city which justifies the implementation of several Radisson Blu projects. Radisson Blu also fits resort destinations but only a few primary markets outside Istanbul. The low average rate performed by upper upscale hotels in Anatolian cities is a clear constraint and does not always justify the development of such luxury hotels. The main potential lies in the midmarket sector and our Park Inn by Radisson brand. Large number of industrial cities, strong domestic demand, good level of infrastructure in the country, including airports, roads and now conference centres, and lack of internationally
BY 2020 CARLSON REZIDOR HOTEL GROUP’S TURKISH PORTFOLIO IS SET TO REACH SOME 30 PROPERTIES, MAKING THE COMPANY ONE OF THE LEADING HOTEL CHAINS IN THE COUNTRY, ACCORDING TO ROMAIN AVRIL, VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, CARLSON REZIDOR HOTEL GROUP.
Radisson Blu Bosphorus Hotel, Istanbul
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branded quality hotels. Moreover, the incremental average rate performed by luxury hotels compared to midmarket hotels is often limited in Anatolian cities. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Since the opening of Radisson Blu Bosphorus Hotel, Istanbul, the company has significantly extended its footprint in Istanbul. Which cities will lead the group’s expansion in the country and why? ROMAIN AVRIL: Istanbul is the key market for Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. Radisson Blu is already the largest upper upscale brand in Istanbul with seven hotels – six in operation and one under development, representing a total of approximately 1,600 rooms – and we have the first Park Inn by Radisson to open by the year end. Istanbul is the leading destination and the economic centre of Turkey where we want to further strengthen our presence and our operational cluster. There will be mega projects in the city which will fuel the hotel demand, including the construction of the Bosphorus Canal, the third airport, a third bridge and a financial centre on the Asian side, just to name a few. Furthermore, there is a significant difference in terms of RevPAR between Istanbul and the rest of the country, thus it makes more financial sense for us to focus on Istanbul. However, we are also looking at expanding in the main Anatolian cities to penetrate the whole market, going to locations where a robust hotel demand is identified since a lot of hotel markets are already oversupplied in primary and secondary cities. We also want to secure mega hotel resorts in key destinations such as the Bodrum and Antalya regions. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How do you see the Turkish tourism industry developing over the next years? ROMAIN AVRIL: The rapid growth of Turkish Airlines has also contributed to the boom of the hotel industry. […] In addition, the MICE business is also being stimulated by the construction of several conference centres in destinations such as Izmir and Samsun. The government is promoting an aggressive tourism policy to stimulate the sector and rank Turkey as a top worldwide destination. In spite of the recent political unrests, [we have] great expectations for the next 10 years. 16 AUGUST 2014
ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS
Four Seasons Dubai is Accepting Reservations
UAE Establishes Hospitality Federation
Dubai
Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
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he Dubai World Hospitality Championship has announced the establishment of UAE Hospitality Federation. The main goal of the new initiative is to make the local hospitality sector competitive in the international arena, providing the best training in accordance with global standards in order to develop skills and capabilities in the sector. “The UAE is steadily moving towards positioning itself as a leading regional and international tourism hub. Thus, the hospitality sector plays an important role in strengthening the UAE’s tourism sector,” said Ahmed Bin Hareb Al Falahi, president, Dubai World Hospitality Championship.
Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach is scheduled to open on November 1.
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ocated just minutes from all the pleasures and key business hubs of the city, this new property exudes a casual elegance and modern style. At five storeys, the hotel is comparatively low-rise amid the city’s soaring towers, but in keeping with the surrounding coastal community. A total of 237 guest rooms and suites await guests who will be able to relax by the pool, on the beach or in the spa, whilst there are plenty of spaces for the business traveller to work. Discussing the new property, Simon Casson, regional vice president, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, commented, “Our resort is an intimately scaled, luxurious enclave of comfort and style. Throughout, guests can expect highly personalised service that is consistent with Four Seasons hotels and resorts Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach around the world.” 16 AUGUST 2014
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Hilton Modernises Hotel Experience Through Digital Technology
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, r digita 015 r By 2 n, eithe will be , o s i t t s c for i l e l m ally o r f o l or able g b rooms 0 l avai 650, 00 4, 000 r a e h t n r ties? ov ore e at m on prop Hilt
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ilton Worldwide has revealed forthcoming plans to revolutionise its guest experience through computerisation of the booking, check-in and check-out processes. In a first for the hospitality industry, Hilton Worldwide has announced the digitalisation of check-in and check-out, a feature which will soon be available to guests through their smartphones, tablets and computers. Clients will also be able to view digital floor plans in order to select a specific room, as well as purchase upgrades and order the delivery of specific products to their rooms. As part of its digital strategy, Hilton has made a commitment to introduce the use of smartphones as room keys, a system which will be available in all US hotels across four of its brands by the end of 2015 and established in the majority of its properties by 2016.
Semiramis InterContinental Cairo
Semiramis InterContinental Cairo Hosts NGO Event
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emiramis InterContinental Cairo hosted an evening event for Egypt Peace Lovers Organisation, a nongovernmental organisation (NGO) in the country. Under the leadership of Ibrahim Mehlab, prime minister, Egypt, the NGO’s national initiative which works with the government to serve and support Egypt, saw some of the country’s leading figures, including six ministers and representatives from 15 NGO’s, come together to support the cause.
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ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS Organisational Changes at Hyatt
Al Bustan Centre & Residence to Have a New look
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l Bustan Centre & Residence has undergone a major renovation at a cost of AED15 million (USD4.08 million). With completion scheduled for this month, the property is ideally located in Dubai’s business district, just five minutes away from Dubai International Airport and 50m from Al Nahda Metro Station, providing hotel guests easy and convenient access to major shopping malls and tourist attractions. The hotel comprises 640 renovated and spacious suites which can easily host 2,500 business and leisure guests. Commenting on the project, Moussa El Hayek, chief operating officer, Al Bustan Centre & Residence said, “All our 640 guest rooms have been upgraded and will be at par with new and upcoming properties in the market.”
Al Bustan Centre & Residence
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ark Hoplamazian, president, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, has announced a series of organisational changes, including integration of the global operations structure, the formation of an integrated team to lead the company’s select service business and the creation of a new global franchising strategy function. Appointed to the newly-created role of global president of operations is Chuck Floyd, a Hyatt veteran of some 33 years’ standing. “The closer connection we are establishing now between the global operations centre and the regions will strengthen our ability to implement global processes and programmes efficiently, while maintaining our ability to adapt quickly to local and regional market needs,” Hoplamazian explained.
Nobu Hotel Riyadh Interiors Nearing Completion
Nobu Hotel Riyadh
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ockwell Group Europe and Dhaliliyah are putting the finishing touches to Nobu Hotel Riyadh’s interiors. Due to open in 2015, the first Nobu Hotel in the Middle East and one of the first luxury boutique hotels in Saudi Arabia will be located in a modern, 23-storey skyscraper in the heart of Riyadh’s financial centre, close to major cultural and shopping destinations. In addition to the hotel’s 90 guestrooms and 44 suites, Rockwell Group Europe is designing all of the property’s public spaces, including a teahouse on the ground floor, an all-day dining restaurant on the first floor mezzanine, a VIP lounge with views of the city from the 16th floor, banquet facilities and meeting rooms, and the hotel’s inhouse, 770m2 signature Nobu Restaurant.
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CLASSIFIEDS RECRUITMENTS
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RECRUITMENT LISTINGS IN TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY
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16 AUGUST 2014
RECRUITMENTS CLASSIFIEDS
NEWLY-OPENING 5-STAR DESERT RESORT HAS SIX OPENINGS Newly-opening 5-star desert resort near Al Ain, UAE, is seeking for the following posts. All must have a minimum of 5 years of experience in the same position in 5-star chain hotels. Food and beverage manager Chief engineer Waitress / waiters Security manager Front office desk agent Guest relations officers
CAPITAL CLUB DUBAI VACANCY
Website: www.gloriahospitality.com Email address: gloriahotels@eim.ae Telephone Number: +971 2 644 4739 Fax Number: +971 2 644 4759
IN-HOUSE GRAPHIC DESIGNER (BEACH HOTEL IN RAS AL KHAIMAH) Must be fluent in Arabic and English, reading and writing.
Work for one of the top 10 most exclusive private member’s Clubs in the world: Capital Club Dubai. Accepting applications for Membership Managers to lauren.ruttle@capitalclubdubai.com Must have sales experience in luxury goods and/or hospitality, a strong UAE business network and a 5* professional attitude.
16 AUGUST 2014
Bin Majid Hotels & Resorts information: If you are looking to start a career at a fast-paced innovative company with loads of opportunities, then look no further than Bin Majid Hotels & Resorts. We are growing dynamically and are looking for motivated, talented and proactive individuals to join our team. Must be fluent in Arabic and English, reading and writing. Please send your CV to: vanessa.chinopoulou@binmajid.com
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
OMAN AIR TO SERVE NEW DUQM AIRPORT Oman Air has announced that it will serve the new Omani regional airport at Duqm with four flights per week, operating its Embraer E-175 aircraft.
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iscussing the launch of the new service, Salim Al Kindy, acting CEO, Oman Air, commented, “As a Special Economic Zone, Duqm is playing a vital role in Oman’s economic growth and Oman Air’s service will help to both facilitate business growth in the area and attract further investment.” The importance of Duqm as an industrial centre in Oman has grown rapidly in recent years with USD2 billion invested in the construction of quays, dry docks, roads, and hotels, as well as the new airport.
Royal Jordanian Airlines Restructures Route Network
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s part of the airline’s restructuring plan, including that of its route network, Royal Jordanian Airlines has announced its decision to stop services to Mumbai, Lagos and Delhi, bringing to eight the number of destinations halted this year. According to Nasser Lozi, president, Royal Jordanian Airlines, the move is part of a synchronised plan to turn around the operations and financial structure of the airline and comes at a time when the company is facing difficulties due to instability in the region and high fuel prices. Meanwhile, the company continually studies opportunities for new routes and is closely watching a number of regional markets. Regarding its fleet, Lozi confirmed that by the end of the year the airline will have taken delivery of five Boeing 787s which will start joining the fleet this month.
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AIR WEEKLY NEWS
flydubai Announces Mumbai Route
Emirates Opens Lounge at Glasgow Airport
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lydubai has announced the launch in October of a direct, five-times-a-week service to Mumbai from Dubai International. The newly launched route follows a doubling of the airline’s network in India with the start of flights to Delhi, Kochi and Trivandrum, as a result of the expanded bilateral trade agreement signed between India and Dubai. Sudhir Sreedharan, senior vice president, commercial, GCC, Indian Subcontinent, Africa, flydubai, predicted that the flights to Mumbai, Delhi and five other destinations in the market will give more options to passengers from India to connect through Dubai’s efficient aviation hub to other destinations on the network or further afield.
Air Seychelles’ New Airbus A320 Enhances Frequencies
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ir Seychelles, the archipelago’s flag carrier, expects to receive its first Airbus A320 in December, heralding significant enhancements to its global routes which will be stepped up once the new aircraft joins the fleet. The changes include higher frequencies in weekly flights between the Seychelles and Abu Dhabi, greater capacity on the routes to Mauritius, and revised schedules for routes to and from Johannesburg, Mauritius, and Paris. “Our new fleet arrival, enhanced schedule and additional frequencies take Air Seychelles to the next level. Combined, these developments will cement Air Seychelles’ successful turnaround strategy, increase and secure inbound tourism flows to Seychelles, and economically, be hugely positive in terms of facilitating more trade across our network,” highlighted Manoj Papa, CEO, Air Seychelles.
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mirates has officially opened its new lounge at Glasgow Airport, UK. The event marked the airline’s 10th year of service to the Scottish city and demonstrates the company’s evergrowing commitment to Glasgow. Tim Clark, president, Emirates, commented that the new lounge will be an unrivalled premium airport experience for passengers travelling to popular destinations, including Bangkok, Perth, Sydney, and Singapore via Dubai. Emirates’ first class and business class passengers plus Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members will have access to the lounge. The new lounge features the aesthetic and contemporary style of Emirates Lounges at Dubai Airport’s Concourse A, with extensive views of the airfield, a premium dining area and many more facilities.
Qatar Airways Finalises Order for 50 Boeing 777-9Xs
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atar Airways and Boeing have finalised an order for 50 Boeing 777-9Xs with a commitment to 50 additional purchase rights. If exercised, those rights could take Qatar Airways’ order tally to 100 airplanes, with a value of around USD40 billion. ”Qatar Airways continuously builds upon its successful fleet programme, and this latest announcement demonstrates our investment in quality equipment to deliver our signature service,” said Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways. ”The Boeing 777 is a key component of our fleet and we look forward to building on this with the next-generation 777-9X,” he continued. Qatar Airways also announced its intention to order four 777 Freighters with options for four more.
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
New Ayurvedic Spa at Anantara Veli The recently launched Sundari Ayurvedic Spa at Anantara Veli Resort & Spa Maldives follows a holistic approach, incorporating elements of the Ayurvedic lifestyle throughout resort activities, restaurant menus and spa treatments.
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esigned for both beginners in Ayurveda and the more advanced students, Sundari combines adherence to Ayurvedic principles based on an ancient eastern philosophy and the finest quality ingredients from nature. Guests can choose between individual treatments and multiple day programmes. Beginning with an in-depth consultation with the resident Ayurvedic doctor, a personalised treatment experience will be designed for the guest with take-home information also provided to enable continuation of the Ayurvedic lifestyle upon returning home.
Four Seasons Hotel Raises Money for Cancer Institute
Anantara Veli Resort & Spa Maldives
JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts Introduces its Spa Brand
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our Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. recently hosted its 14th annual Drive Fore the Cure Golf Classic raising USD172,000 for the Cancer Institute at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, the district’s largest cancer care provider. “Our hotel’s commitment to the mission of Four Seasons to find a cure for cancer is shown each year by the dedication and hard work of our staff members who help make Drive Fore the Cure a success. We are also extremely grateful to have the support of our corporate sponsors, individual golfers and donors,” said Dirk Burghartz, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. Sandra Swain, medical director, Washington Cancer Institute, said, ”We remain deeply appreciative for the work and the partnership with Four Seasons.”
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W Marriott Hotels & Resorts is to launch Spa by JW, debuting at the new JW Marriott Houston Downtown in September and followed by more than 20 Spa by JWs currently in the pipeline. The concept has been developed in collaboration with JW Marriott brand partner and spa industry leader Aromatherapy Associates and encompasses a range of spa treatments from full service to express. “Our guests are incredibly passionate about wellbeing but they do not always have the time to invest in cultivating it. They are looking for an experience that delivers true impact and results that are tailored to their state of mind,” said Mitzi Gaskins, vice president, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts.
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INTERNATIONAL WEEKLY NEWS
Hilton Garden Inn and Home2 Suites Columbia Downtown
Hilton’s First Dual-Branded Property Arrives in Columbia
Holiday Inn Express Bali Raya Kuta Makes its Debut
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has expanded its presence in Indonesia with the new Holiday Inn Express Bali Raya Kuta. Situated a mere 6km from Ngurah Rai International Airport, and only a 10-minute drive from the capital’s business district, the culturally abundant surrounding area is home to some of Bali’s oldest Hindu temples. Facilities at the 168-room hotel include a swimming pool and 24-hour fitness centre. The project is the fourth Holiday Inn Express to be launched in Indonesia and the ninth in South East Asia as a whole. Clarence Tan, chief operating officer, South East Asia and Resorts, IHG, said that the project will be followed by 16 more hotels due to open across the region over the next five years.
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ilton Worldwide announced the signing of a dual-branded Hilton Garden Inn and Home2 Suites by Hilton hotel in Columbia, South Carolina, following the rebranding, conversion and expansion of the historic Clarion Hotel Downtown. The 210-room development will join the current portfolio of 16 Hilton Worldwide dualbranded hotels. Phil Cordell, global head, focused service and Hampton brand management, Hilton Worldwide, noted, ”The signing of the dual-branded Hilton Garden Inn and Home2 Suites Columbia Downtown marks a strategic implementation for us in a top market.” Whilst retaining each brand’s individuality, the two hotels will share some amenities and services, such as the indoor pool, outdoor garden and free Wi-Fi.
Holiday Inn Express Bali Raya Kuta
Hilton Worldwide Expands Further in Tanzania
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ilton Worldwide announced the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Zanzibar – Stone Town, marking the brand’s third hotel in Tanzania, and the first global hotel brand in Stone Town. Nestled in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Stone Town, the 58-room new property offers a base from which to experience the island of Zanzibar, where the hotel’s oceanfront location is a setting for both leisure getaways and business retreats for up to 200 guests. Discussing the location of the new hotel, John Greenleaf, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton, stated, “Stone Town is a city of prominent historical and artistic importance, and we are proud to enter as the first global hotel brand in the city.” DoubleTree by Hilton Zanzibar – Stone Town
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TRAVEL TALK
MICE organisations have provided huge added value
LEVENT CENGIZ Director of sales and marketing, JW Marriott Hotel Ankara
“Bilateral relations with the Arab world, the trade volume that is created, activities like shopping fests, the positive impact that Turkish TV series produce in Arab countries, initiatives to popularise Turkey among Arab consumers as a holiday destination, [are] a few of the important factors that contributed to the growth in tourism. In addition to this, MICE organisations have provided huge added value. In general, the accommodation periods of Arab guests and the number of rooms they reserve are pretty high.”
[MENA] is one of the most important markets for us
AHMED SHUHAN Resort manager, Baros Maldives.
“[MENA] is one of the most important markets for us. There is nothing better than having the guests travel just a short distance and enjoy easy access for a quick getaway or for a long weekend, and it also benefits last minute bookings. Of course, this market looks for the very high end rooms and has more disposable income to spend.”
The Mall of the World [...] will surely take Dubai 20 years ahead of the regional market
MIDHAT ABU GHAZALEH CEO, Abughazaleh Trading Company
“Dubai was 10 years ahead of other regional markets as far as shopping and retail are concerned. In 1996, the emirate set itself apart from the region with the launch of the Dubai Shopping Festival, which created a dramatic upswing in the UAE retail sector. Now, with the announcement of Mall of the World, the scale and magnitude have been expanded, which will surely take Dubai 20 years ahead of the regional market.“
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AGENT CORNER
Agent’s Insight NAME:
Muhammad Idrees
POSITION:
Manager
COMPANY:
Saudi Wings Holidays
LOCATION:
Saudi Arabia
WEBSITE:
www.saudiwings.com
Hala Travel Management Expands in Dubai
Who are you? I am Muhammad Idrees. I started my career in the travel business back in 1978 with Pakistan International Airlines. Later in 1984 I joined Saudi Wings Holidays Riyadh and to date I am serving the clients with the same zeal and enthusiasm. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? It is a very challenging field and you feel job satisfaction when you tackle any difficult situation. Other than this it gives you the chance to travel around the globe. When is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia? Normally Saudi Arabia is known for religious travel; Umrah and Hajj. Umrah is round the year and Hajj is in October but there is a lot more to see in Saudi Arabia as it is a much diversified country. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? This year I have planned to travel with my family to one of the many Maldives islands in the Indian Ocean. Why should people come to you for travel advice? Saudi Wings Holidays is one of the leading travel agencies and holiday makers in Riyadh. We work with the motto All travel solutions under one roof. We deal with leisure, business, families, individual travellers, FIT (free independent traveller) and MICE travel. 16 AUGUST 2014
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s part of its regional expansion plans, Hala Travel Management (HTM), an independent travel management company, has opened its first office in Dubai. The new Dubai office is HTM’s sixth in the UAE, and is located in Etihad Travel Mall, Etihad Airways’ one-stop travel retail and check-in facility. HTM is a joint venture between Etihad Airways and BCD Travel, a multinational travel management company, which offers a full range of travel consultancy services and solutions for clients in the UAE across both public and private sectors. According to Peter Baumgartner, chief operating officer, Hala Group, the Dubai office was launched in part due to the success and year-on-year growth of HTM in the Abu Dhabi marketplace, sparking an ambition to expand the company further in the region.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Costa Cruises Initiates Gratuity Programme Costa Cruises is launching a gratuity programme which will reward travel agents on the basis of their Costa Cruises bookings.
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he Grazie Mille programme will award agents points which can then be redeemed for gift cards. In addition, the top performing agent annually will be rewarded with a cruise plus USD300 on-board credit. “The Grazie Mille programme pays tribute to our travel agent partners by thanking them with bonus rewards for booking a Costa cruise,” said Scott Knutson, vice president, sales and marketing, Costa Cruises North America. "Costa’s travel agent partners provide dedicated and enthusiastic support, and without them we wouldn’t be a successful cruise line.”
Amwaj Rotana Supports Children of Harmony House
Costa Cruises
Omran Invests in Internship Programme
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mwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach - Dubai has pledged a donation to Harmony House, a non-profit organisation in India providing for women and children in need. The donation will fund the purchase of milk for the children for several months. The donation marked another event in the hotel’s corporate social responsibility programme. “This endeavour is a part of the hotel’s sustainability plan for [this year] with the vision of covering various aspects of social responsibility,” said Jasmine Arika, director of marketing and communications, Amwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach – Dubai.
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n just the first half of this year, Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) has taken on over 30 trainees, including current students and graduates from various higher education institutions in the Sultanate. The Omran internship programme involves the students in flagship tourism projects, affording them a wealth of in-depth experience. Their involvement in major Omran projects and in liaising on-site with industry professionals and project managers exposes the students to a real-life working environment and, in the case of senior students, to potential employers.
Participants at the Training
Mobile Application Implemented in KSA Tourism
H.
H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president, Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), recently inaugurated the Mobile Phone Complaint Service and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) project at SCTA's headquarters in Riyadh. The new mobile service will be delivered through Saudi Tourism Application and aims to ensure communication between tourists and SCTA, by delivering citizens’ complaints, suggestions and remarks on tourism services, as well as details on any obstacles and difficulties they may face. As regards CRM, Hamad bin Abdul Aziz Al Sheikh, vice-president, marketing, SCTA, commented that the project provides a system enabling SCTA staff to communicate with both citizens and residents, as well as the public and private sectors, in an expeditious manner.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS SCTA Introduces Electronic Information Centres
UNWTO Applauds Saudi Law on Heritage Preservation
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H.
aleb Rifai, secretary general, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), welcomed the new legislative measures taken by Saudi Arabia aimed at safeguarding its historical sites and cultural heritage. The new Saudi laws on the preservation of antiquities, museums and built heritage come against the backdrop of the Jeddah Historical Area being included in UNESCO's World Heritage Site list. In his congratulatory speech, Rifai commented on the unprecedented growth rate in cultural tourism and its potential as an income generator, but also stressed the importance of adequate public policies and legislation to manage such growth. The upcoming UNWTO/ UNESCO World Conference on Tourism, which will take place in Cambodia in 2015 will further investigate the relationship between tourism and culture.
R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president, Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA), inaugurated a project at SCTA headquarters concerning the launch of electronic information centres that are designed to disseminate accurate tourist information. These centres will provide citizens with up-todate details on tourism destinations, facilities and events as well as allow for marketing opportunities and promotion of the Saudi tourism industry. The 340 electronic information centres are distributed across various key locations, such as airports, railway stations, malls, and major tourism destinations. The initiative complements the Saudi Tourism portal, the first source of information on tourism in the Kingdom, especially regarding airline reservations, hotels, and tourist complaints.
Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO
Ramadan Prompts Increase in Training Programmes
Dubai Duty Free Donates to Water Aid Campaign
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15 percent increase in admissions to training programmes during Ramadan has been reported by International House Dubai (IH Dubai), an institution offering practical skill-based courses with international accreditations. The increase was found in comparison to the monthly average in the first half of the year. IH Dubai attributed the increase in demand to the reduced working hours and workload during Ramadan, in both the public and private sector, which allowed more trainees to enrol in programmes for career development purposes. According to IH Dubai, the majority of trainees during Ramadan are middle managers looking to climb the career ladder.
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Colm McLoughlin (centre)
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ubai Duty Free has donated AED3 million (USD817,000) to the UAE Water Aid campaign. The campaign was launched by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, and aims to provide safe drinking water for approximately five million people worldwide. Discussing the donation, Colm McLoughlin, executive vice chairman, Dubai Duty Free, stated, “Dubai Duty Free is happy to support this great initiative by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which will enrich the lives of so many people around the world by providing them with clean drinking water.� The UAE Water Aid Campaign will be implemented in 61 countries worldwide.
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WHO’S MOVED
WISSAM SULEIMAN
Wissam Suleiman has taken on the position of general manager at the upcoming Marsa Malaz Hotel Kempinski, Doha. Suleiman began his journey in the industry in Amman, Jordan, 16 years ago. Since joining Kempinski in 2004, he has worked at some of the company’s most high-profile properties in the region, including Kempinski Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, and Kempinski Hotel Aqaba in Jordan. Most recently he served as general manager at Kempinski Residence & Suites, Doha, where he successfully managed to solidify the property’s market presence in the region.
WURAOLA ODUNTAN
Suleiman has worked at some of the company’s most high-profile properties in the region
GAVIN CAMPBELL
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Gavin Campbell has joined The Royal Golf Club, Bahrain as director of instruction. Turning professional at 21, he graduated through the Professional Golfers’ Association Programme three years later. Campbell moves to Bahrain from another Troon-managed property in Rostov-on-Don, South Russia where he was responsible for raising awareness of the sport among local residents. In just five years, he managed to increase the number of golfers from three to 300. Since his arrival in Bahrain, Campbell has already launched a series of Friday morning clinics, and he now looks forward to revitalising the club’s existing golf tuition packages and introducing new and exciting learning opportunities.
Wuraola Oduntan has assumed the position of general manager for Nigeria at Etihad Airways. Based in Lagos, Oduntan will have overall responsibility for the airline’s operations in the country. Oduntan takes over from Maurice Phohleli, who was recently appointed vice president for Africa, sub-Sahara and Indian Ocean, and brings a wealth of industry experience to the company, having previously worked in various roles at Virgin Atlantic Nigeria, including head of sales and marketing. Oduntan holds a bachelor degree in accounting from Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria, and a master’s degree from the University of Leicester, UK.
Oduntan holds a bachelor degree in accounting
GEORGES FARHAT
Georges Farhat has been promoted from acting general manager to general manager at Crowne Plaza Dubai. Farhat, who has more than 25 years’ of industry experience, started his career with InterContinental Hotels Group at Crowne Plaza in Dubai two decades ago. His passion for hospitality, along with his willingness to learn and grow, have helped him rise through the ranks at Crowne Plaza Dubai. Over the years he has held various positions in front office and sales before becoming executive assistant manager, resident manager, hotel manager and finally acting general manager.
Farhat has more than 25 years’ of industry experience
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Air Seychelles welcomes two new Twin Otter aircraft to its fleet
Swiss-Belhotel International opens Swiss-Belinn Airport Jakarta
Jordan Marriott Hotels hosts Flying Doctors of America
Over 15,000 items of clothing donated during Ramadan at Wild Wadi Waterpark
easyJet cabin crew was joined by Gavin Shuker, member of parliament for Luton South to collect Change for Good
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NEWS & EVENTS Al Ain to Welcome National Traditional Handicrafts Festival
EVENTS THE CHINA GUILIN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM EXPO (CGITE) Guilin, China, August 29 – 31, 2014 www.cgite.com.cn CGITE is a key strategic platform catering to the booming Chinese tourism market.
SEATRADE LATIN AMERICA CRUISE CONVENTION
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l Ain, one of Abu Dhabi’s most culturally prosperous areas, is set to organise the emirate’s first National Traditional Handicrafts Festival. Taking place at Souq al Qattara from October 23 – 29, the initiative aims to highlight the significance of traditional crafts in the region’s cultural heritage. The festival will feature various heritage activities, such as a handicrafts bazaar with traditional goods as well as a public entertainment programme that will include a children’s Al Yola dance contest, Al Harbiya, Al Ayyalah, and rebaba music, Al Shillah and Al Yola shows, and crafting competitions. Culinary skills will also be exhibited, through the preparation of traditional recipes and Arabic coffee.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, September 2 – 3, 2014 www.latinamerica-cruise.com The event returns to Brazil after touring the region, focussing on the development of the cruise industry in Latin America.
INCENTIVE, BUSINESS, TRAVEL & MEETINGS EXPO (IBTM) INDIA Chennai, India, September 3 – 5, 2014 www.ibtmevents.com An invitation-only event for India’s inbound, outbound and domestic business travel sector.
SHANGHAI INTERNATIONAL GOLF & TRAVEL (SIGT) Shanghai, China, September 5 – 7, 2014 www.shanghaigolfshow.com SIGT will be a meeting place where golf industry people and golf enthusiasts can interact.
FOOD & HOSPITALITY OMAN Muscat, Oman September 9 – 11, 2014 www.foodandhospitalityoman.com A business and networking platform to promote the latest products and services in the food and beverage sector.
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