LAUNCHING TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE THIS NOVEMBER!
Let's TRADE with Europe! www.traveltradeeurope.travel
18 OCTOBER 2014
ISSUE 258
SUEZ NATIONAL MUSEUM OPENS ACTION HOTELS HAS ADDED THE THREE-STAR RAS AL-KHAIMAH HOTEL TO ITS PROPERTY PORTFOLIO BY PENNING A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH GOLDEN TULIP.
08 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE TECHNOLOGY GENERAL ACCOMMODATION CLASSIFIEDS AIR RENDEZVOUS INTERNATIONAL AGENT CORNER TRAVEL TALK TRAVEL CHANNELS WHO’S MOVED PHOTO ALBUM NEWS & EVENTS
02 03 04 10 12 13 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
ACTION HOTELS ENTERS RAS AL KHAIMAH
11
MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli
ADIA Reports Increased Traffic Passenger traffic at Abu Dhabi International Airport (ADIA) increased by 24.8 percent in August, with a total of 1,920,934 passengers passing through the hub compared with 1,538,632 in the same month of 2013.
SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba CONTRIBUTORS Dominique Christou Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou 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
Abu Dhabi International Airport
A
ircraft movement was also on the rise representing a 15.4 percent increase, as well as cargo activity which increased to 66,215 tonnes. Ahmad Al Haddabi, chief operations officer, Abu Dhabi Airports, attributed the boost to residents flying back from their vacations in time for the beginning of the school season. “Additionally, Abu Dhabi is increasingly being seen a preferred tourism and business destination, as well as one of the fastest growing aviation hubs in the region with access to over 90 destinations globally,” he added.
MENA EXCHANGE RATES As of 17/10/2014 Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar
2
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
83.24
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.14
Iran (IRR)
Rial
26,701.88
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,159.81
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.28
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,507.56
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.20
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.68
Syria (SYP)
Pound
162.56
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.79
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.91
QAIA Boasts Unprecedented Traffic in August Airport International Group (AIG) announced that Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) welcomed over 700,000 passengers during August.
kno u o y d i D
w. .
s offer ts QAIA ed fligh es? dul sche 8 airlin 3 by
T
his milestone for the Jordanian airport marks a continuation of the steady growth in passenger traffic and aircraft movements for the eighth consecutive month this year. Year-on-year passenger traffic increased by 13.2 percent reaching 785,685 visitors, while aircraft movements rose by 12 percent. “This unprecedented achievement recorded during August was mainly led by an increase in passenger traffic to and from Turkey, Egypt and the GCC region. This is the first time in QAIA's history that we exceed such a benchmark, and we eagerly look forward to reaching even greater heights in the future,” stated Kjeld Binger, CEO, AIG. 18 OCTOBER 2014
TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS
New Agreement Signed by Travelport and CWT Travelport and Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT), a leading travel management company, have announced an expanded multi-year global agreement.
T
he new deal builds upon the two companies’ longstanding relationship and creates a long-term commercial framework to lead and define their working partnership through to the next decade. As part of the agreement, CWT travel counsellors will continue to have access to Travelport’s extensive travel content inventory, as well as its merchandising and desktop technology. In turn, Travelport will benefit from new and incremental business from CWT in certain targeted countries in Europe and the Pacific regions.
SITA Releases Survey on In-flight Technology
A
survey by SITA, a specialist in air transport communications, confirmed that technology is increasingly important for passenger experience. Out of the 6,277 travellers surveyed, nearly 77 percent would be comfortable with the use of wearable technology during flights, while 97 percent carry a smartphone, tablet or laptop when they travel. They also expressed a wish to use technology throughout their journey, with 76 percent using airline apps, 53 percent wanting personalised alerts and 57 percent wishing for airport maps and directions. Francesco Violante, CEO, SITA, commented, “As new technologies, such as wearable tech, [nearfield communication] NFC and iBeacons become commonplace, they present a great opportunity for airlines and airports to engage directly with their passengers to provide efficient services throughout the journey.”
18 OCTOBER 2014
Sabre Corporation and Peruvian Airlines Agree on Distribution
S
abre Corporation has announced Peruvian Airlines as the newest Latin American carrier to join the Sabre travel marketplace. The multi-year distribution agreement, which provides buyers with access to all the airline’s fares, seat maps, schedules and services, will enable the airline to partner with more than 400,000 travel agents in Peru, Latin America and other global markets, a key user base managing millions of flight requests and bookings. Additionally, the agreement will also allow the airline to embrace Sabre technology and global distribution systemenabled solutions portfolio, including low fare search capabilities, to support efficient merchandising of fares and inventory through travel agents subscribed to Sabre worldwide.
3
WEEKLY NEWS
Dubai Hosts European Media
T
he group took part in a series of workshops with Dubai’s travel industry representatives, while the programme incorporated various meetings and a hotel inspection at Atlantis, The Palm. Saleh Al Geziry, director of overseas offices, Dubai Corporation of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, said that countries of Central Europe have become important since the launch of direct flights to and from the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland, as well as recent visa changes.
Travel Trade Members
With the aim of enhancing knowledge about Dubai in Central and Eastern Europe and ultimately increasing bookings from European markets, Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) hosted a mega fam trip to the emirate for a group of travel trade members and media from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland and Hungary.
Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Creek
BAC and KLM Explore Future Collaboration Opportunities
B
ahrain Airport Company (BAC) welcomed a delegation from KLM Royal Dutch Airlines at the company’s headquarters, in line with its ongoing efforts to delivering service excellence and meeting the demands of airlines and passengers alike. “KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has been a key partner and holds a long-standing relationship with the airport and the Kingdom of Bahrain that goes back over 40 years. Bahrain International Airport’s successes are built on such strong partnerships, and I would like to take this opportunity to confirm our support and cooperation for the airline community at the airport as we push ahead with our plans to further enhance passenger’s experience through our friendly and efficient airport,” commented Mohamed Khalil, chief commercial officer, BAC.
4
18 OCTOBER 2014
WEEKLY NEWS
D
ubai Tourism organised a special ceremony to recognise private and public sector partners who were key to the growth of the emirate’s burgeoning cruise tourism sector. Hamad bin Mejren, executive director, Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM), said, “We expect to welcome 450,000 cruise tourists by 2016 and to record continued sustainable growth until 2020 and beyond. To achieve our goals, it is essential that we have the continued support of our partners, which is why today’s ceremony is so important.” Held at Mina Rashid, the event saw H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri, director general, DTCM, award certificates of appreciation to representatives of local government agencies, as well as aviation and tourism companies.
18 OCTOBER 2014
Hop-on, Hop-off Tours Launch in Dubai Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Creek
Dubai Tourism Recognises Cruise Tourism Partners
d
nata and City Sightseeing Worldwide have commenced operations of Dubai’s newest hop-on, hop-off city tour. With modern double-decker buses and a dozen language options, City Sightseeing will stop at 26 different locations around the emirate, allowing passengers to explore different areas of interest at their own pace. “We are coming to Dubai with a fresh perspective and we cannot wait to bring our tours to this city and its visitors. There is no better way to experience a city than from the comfort and convenience of a City Sightseeing double-decker bus,” said Enrique Ybarra, president, City Sightseeing WorldWide.
5
WEEKLY NEWS
Argo Tea Café Opens at Qatar Duty Free
Q
atar Duty Free has announced the official opening of Argo Tea Café in the arrivals hall at Hamad International Airport (HIA). “With Argo Tea’s rapid expansion into the Middle East, we wanted our passengers at HIA to be some of the first to enjoy the unique experience that this unique beverage concept has to offer. Argo Tea is a great fit in our food and beverage portfolio as it exemplifies our strategy of handpicking niche brands to enhance our passengers’ journey through the airport, while adding an element of discovery and surprise when they are looking for dining options,” said Keith Hunter, senior vice president, Qatar Duty Free.
New Services Inaugurated at Muscat International Airport
I
n a move aimed to improve the performance level in all of Muscat International Airport’s facilities and services provided by Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC), new business and first class immigration and bag screening counters were opened at Oman Air’s departure hall. Sheikh Ayman Al-Hosni, director general, Muscat International Airport, said, “OAMC, in coordination with the Public Authority for Civil Aviation, Royal Oman Police and Oman Air, is studying all options and alternatives to facilitate travel procedures for all passengers travelling via Muscat International Airport and Salalah Airport through the provision of a variety of top-level services to first and business class passengers, as well as economy class and transit passengers.”
6
Argo Tea Café
New Tourist Route for Dubai Ferry
T
he Marine Transport Department of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), has launched a new tourist route for Dubai Ferry from Al Mamzar Marine Transport Station, available on Thursdays and Fridays. Hussein Khansaheb, director, marine transport, RTA, commented, “The Public Transport Agency is always keen on operating scheduled tours for Dubai Ferry at both Dubai Marina and Ghubaiba stations. At the behest of the Dubai Ferry commuters, we have decided to expand the scope of marine services and access new destinations by operating new tourist trip for Dubai Ferry in Al Mamzar area.”
18 OCTOBER 2014
WEEKLY NEWS Russian Tourists Devoted to Egypt
M
ohamed al-Badri, ambassador to Russia, Egypt, recently took part in a joint meeting between the Russian Federal Agency for Tourism and the Ministry of Culture. Al-Badri noted that Egypt has received two million Russian tourists this year, which indicates the possibility of the number to reach three
million by the end of the year. He added that Egypt also welcomed new rules and procedures, which are to be developed by Russia, in order to regulate tourism. He stressed that the full cooperation between the embassy and the Russian officials is of importance.
Sharjah to Boost Cruise Tourism
S
harjah turned the spotlight on its picturesque East Coast by hosting the World Tourism Day celebrations in the port city of Khorfakkan, in view of the massive tourism and development growth being witnessed in the region and the special attention the area has been receiving from the tourism industry.
Khalid Jasim Al Midfa
With the new cruise line industry bringing in nearly 50,000 extra tourists to the emirate alone, H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, director general, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, noted that the cruise industry is a valuable addition to any country mainly due to the fact its tourism footprint is low while the economic opportunity is high.
18 OCTOBER 2014
7
WEEKLY NEWS Suez National Museum Opens
M
amdouh al-Damati, minister, antiquities, Egypt, opened the Suez National Museum on September 29. The museum boasts over 2,500 pieces of antiquities which narrate the history of the governorate of Suez and the struggle of its people from old ages until present.
Al-Damati said that the Suez National Museum would contribute to the local tourism industry. “The museum will lure Egyptians and tourists in the coming period as the government is implementing major projects. That will positively reflect on ways to revive the tourism industry in the country,” he confirmed.
Tourism to Help Local Communities in Bahrain
E
nhancing the role of tourism in developing Bahrain’s economy sectors and marking the World Tourism Day, the country’s Ministry of Culture organised a forum on tourism and development of local communities. The forum also highlighted the importance of the relationship between tourism and local community’s growth, through two presentations by Ramesh Rotratana, regional deputy director, East Asia, India and China, International Union for Conservation of Nature, who argued that developing the local community through tourism depends largely on individuals, society’s cultural heritage and encouraging tolerance, as well as social cooperation. At the event it was noted that Bahrain Tourism Strategy 2015 – 2018 will be revealed in November.
Bahrain
8
18 OCTOBER 2014
WEEKLY NEWS Upcoming Dragon Mall Development
D Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) recognised its public and private sector partners, key to the growth of its cruise tourism, at a special ceremony held at Mina Rashid.
iyar Al Muharraq has announced the completion of the foundation work for Dragon Mall and Dining Street in Dragon City, Bahrain. Construction work on the project, which commenced on May 15, has been reported by Nass Contracting to equate to 21 percent of the total construction. The foundations of both the mall and the 6000m2 Dining Street have been laid with the completion of all works due by June 2015. The mall’s layout incorporates 750 individual retail store spaces and a 4500m2 area designated for warehouses.
Dragon Mall Rendering
Ambitious Plans for the Cruise Industry
C
ertificates of appreciation were awarded to government agencies and aviation and tourism companies by H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri, director general, DTCM. Speaking at the event, Hamad bin Mejren, executive director, DTCM, outlined, “To match the ambition of Dubai’s tourist industry as a whole, we have ambitious plans of our own for [the] cruise sector.” He further added, "We expect to welcome 450,000 cruise tourists by 2016 and to record continued, sustainable growth until 2020, and beyond.”
Sharjah to Build Upon Its Tourism Infrastructure
A
number of new hospitality and tourism projects are forthcoming in Sharjah, adding to the emirate’s tourism infrastructure of world-class hotels, beach resorts and business tourism facilities that attract international visitors, according to H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, director general, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTA). This came in Al Midfa’s speech at a special presentation for hotel industry representatives on the Sharjah Tourism Hospitality Statistics Results and Enhancement of Sharjah Hotel Establishments’ Classification System. On this occasion, Al Midfa announced that SCTDA is set to introduce a new and modern classification system for hotel establishments in the emirate in accordance with highest international standards.
18 OCTOBER 2014
9
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Starwood’s W Brand to Debut in Marrakech
S W Marrakech Rendering
tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide revealed plans to launch its luxury brand W in Morocco, with the debut property, W Marrakech, being slated for a 2017 opening. The property is set to offer 147 rooms and suites, plus an Extreme WOW Suite, which is equal to a presidential suite, four indoor and outdoor food and beverage outlets, spa, fitness hub, 24-hour business centre and an outdoor pool deck. Michael Wale, president, Europe, Africa and Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, commented, “The fast-paced and cosmopolitan vibe in Marrakech makes it the perfect backdrop for the innovative flair of W Hotels. We are confident that W Marrakech will offer both locals and global jetsetters alike a new, cutting-edge experience in the Red City.”
City Plus Adds Referral Scheme
C
ity Plus, the recently launched loyalty programme from City Seasons Hotels, has introduced a referral scheme to members, giving them the opportunity to increase their points only by referring their friends. With every signed referral, members see their points increase by 5,000, which transfer into a complimentary voucher for AED150 (USD40) to be used on food and beverage or against hotel stay bills. Commenting on the programme, Mohamed Al Aamri, managing director, City Seasons Hotels, said, “Other than strengthening our network, the enthusiasm for the freebies and the extra discount has helped establish City Seasons as a steady chain that takes its customers and guests seriously.”
10
18 OCTOBER 2014
ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS
ACTION HOTELS ENTERS RAS AL KHAIMAH
Warwick Hotel Dubai Adds Facilities
Warwick Hotel Dubai
Action Hotels has added the three-star Ras al-Khaimah Hotel to its property portfolio by penning a memorandum of understanding with Golden Tulip.
T
he group will be in charge of the operation and management of the 104-room hotel, which is to be refurbished and converted to Tulip Inn Ras Al Khaimah before becoming fully-operational by September 2015. Sheikh Mubarak Al Sabah, founder, Action Hotels, confirmed, “Ras-al Khaimah is a region we know well and believe that its three- and four-star hotel sector is undersupplied. [...] As we highlighted at the time of our interims results earlier this month, this development underpins our strategy of using both freehold and leasehold models to accelerate growth in room numbers.�
A
fter opening its doors in April as the first property by Warwick International Hotels in the emirate, Warwick Hotel Dubai announced the opening of World on 44, its signature restaurant located on the 44th floor, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city. The venue comprises indoor seating for up to 200 guests and is suited for both casual get-togethers and formal gatherings. Moreover, the property has also unveiled Kirana Spa & Health Club, which is located on the 45th floor.
R Hotels Expands Further in UAE
I
Rendering of New R Hotel
18 OCTOBER 2014
n line with its expansion plans, R Hotels, the hospitality management division of the Ajmanbased R Holding, has announced the acquisition of its fifth property in the UAE. The new hotel in Dubai is set to open its doors in the second quarter of 2015. With a central location, the 192key hotel is set to attract both corporate and leisure travellers as it will boast a combination of rooms and suites, including an all-day dining restaurant, banquet facilities, gym, swimming pool, as well as meeting rooms and retail space.
11
CLASSIFIEDS RECRUITMENTS
FREE RECRUITMENT LISTINGS IN TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY
classifieds@traveltradeweekly.travel
12
18 OCTOBER 2014
AIR WEEKLY NEWS
Emirates SkyCargo Launches White Container Emirates’ freight division, Emirates SkyCargo, has launched an internally developed LD3 container which keeps temperature-sensitive cargo cool when transported on the ground and in the air.
EGYPTAIR Now in Line with Winter Timings
O T
he new container, named White Container, has been designed specifically as an intermediate temperature control solution ideal for generic healthcare products and food perishables. The interior of the White Container is coated with thermal insulators preventing the transfer of outside heat, and it uses coolant trays enabling handlers to add or replenish dry ice or coolant without disturbing the packaging.
x
n September 25, Egypt has officially reintroduced the winter time. Consequently, and due to changes in departure and arrival times, the national carrier, EGYPTAIR, called all affected customers to be present at the airport three hours prior to their international flights and two hours prior to their domestic flights' timing. EGYPTAIR also recently announced the move of its operations to London Heathrow's new Terminal 2, joining the rest of Star Alliance member airlines that operate from the facility.
Etihad Unveils Its Own Alliance
E
tihad Airways introduced a new brand which brings together like-minded airlines, to offer customers more choices through improved networks and schedules and enhanced frequent flyer benefits, while the key emphasis is on a strong commercial partnership and shared values. Named Etihad Airways Partners, the alliance will incorporate six airlines; airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Jet Airways, Darwin Airline and Etihad Airways. “The Etihad Airways Partners logo is a seal of excellence and global cooperation. It will be displayed on aircraft and on branded materials by a group of airlines working together to connect travellers around the world, and increasingly to harmonise standards in the air and on the ground,” explained James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways.
18 OCTOBER 2014
13
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Air Astana Relaunches Dubai Services
kn Did you
ow. .
ers a off n a t isa As Air online v ility an tion fac n sta ica appl Kazakh ting for sts visi i tour e UAE? th
A
ir Astana, the national carrier of Kazakhstan, resumed direct daily flights from Almaty to Dubai, on September 1. The existing four days a week service from Astana to Abu Dhabi will also continue to operate, with both itineraries to the UAE being performed by an Airbus A320. “Air Astana previously operated direct flights between Almaty and Dubai from 2002 to 2010, and we are delighted to relaunch this important connection between the major financial centres of Kazakhstan and the UAE,” said Peter Foster, president, Air Astana. In addition, Kazakhstan recently announced a visa waiver programme for tourists from 10 countries, including nationals of the UAE, who can now enter the Caucasian country without any prior notification.
Alitalia and Etihad Airways Support Expo Milan 2015
s official global airline carriers for Expo Milan 2015, Alitalia and Etihad Airways have announced their support of the event’s School
Project. The School Project is a platform for sharing ideas on Expo Milan 2015’s Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life theme, with special training and contests provided to schools across the world on the theme of food and sustainability. An estimated 20 million visitors are expected to attend between May and October 2015, of which approximately 10 percent will be primary, middle and high school students, as well as university students, making it the largest community of visitors to the expo. Alitalia and Etihad Airways will support the Expo School Project with attractive offers, encouraging younger guests to attend the event.
14
E Dallas
A
Emirates A380 Lands in Dallas
mirates commenced its Airbus A380 service from Dubai to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, on October 1. Commenting on the new daily operation, Hubert Frach, divisional senior vice president, Emirates, said, “Commencing an A380 service to Dallas/Fort Worth allows us to provide an additional 222 seats each way on the route every day, significantly enhancing the USD200 million in annual benefits the airport estimated our previous flight provided. This means a greater number of Emirates passengers travelling from South Asia, the Middle East, Far East and Africa can enjoy easy access to North Texas from Emirates’ home and hub of Dubai.” 18 OCTOBER 2014
AIR WEEKLY NEWS Marriott International Partners with Etihad Airways
M
arriott Rewards, Marriott International’s loyalty programme, has joined forces with Etihad Airways’ loyalty scheme, Etihad Guest, so that customers can now redeem their points for miles and opt for gaining miles when booking a Marriott hotel. Commenting on the partnership, Neal Jones, chief sales and marketing officer, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International, said, “Etihad Airways is an airline renowned for its Arabian hospitality; one that is cultured, considerate, warm and generous, a brand that shares Marriott International’s dedication to superior hospitality. In addition, our rewards programme is designed to award customers for their loyalty by providing them with access to free vacations no matter where they choose to travel.”
Marriott Al Jaddaf Dubai
Qatar Airways Celebrates First Year in Ethiopia
Q
atar Airways commemorated the first anniversary of its services to Ethiopia by partnering once again with Our Father’s Kitchen programme, an initiative which provides daily meals for approximately 217 underprivileged children in three different neighbourhoods of the Addis Ababa community. Qatar Airways commenced services between Doha and the Ethiopian capital in September 2013, operating three nonstop flights per week on the route which is now served by an Airbus A320 with 12 seats in business class and 132 seats in economy class. Jared Lee, vice president, Africa, Qatar Airways, commented that the airline has a strong tradition of corporate social responsibility and this is the reason it always endeavours to lend a helping hand in the communities that it serves.
Qatar Airways' Staff Contribute to Our Father's Kitchen
Emirates A380 to Serve Milan
E
mirates is to develop its return services to Milan with the upgrade of one of its daily Boeing 777-300 services to an Airbus A380 from December 1, being the first permanently scheduled A380 service to Milan Malpensa Airport. Bringing the A380 onto one of Emirates’ three daily Milan services will mean an increase in capacity of almost 38 percent. Thierry Antinori, executive vice president, Emirates, said, “With Milan Expo 2015 closely approaching, over 20 million visitors are expected to visit the city and more than three million visitors will travel to Milan from international destinations, and we are well placed to cater to the upward demand within that period and beyond.”
18 OCTOBER 2014
Milan
15
WEEKLY NEWS AIR A350 XWB Prepared for Qatar Airways
Entebbe and Bujumbura Welcome flydubai
f
lydubai recently began operating two flights a week between Dubai and Bujumbura, Burundi via Entebbe, Uganda. Hamad Obaidalla, chief commercial officer, flydubai, commented, “We believe the rich biodiversity of Burundi will attract tourists from around our network and that the more than 80 destinations we operate to offer a great opportunity for this country to strengthen its trade ties.” With the commencement of daily direct flights to Entebbe, two onward flights a week to Kigali and three onward flights a week to Bujumbura, coupled with the recent announcement of three new routes in Tanzania, the airline has doubled its presence in Africa to 12 destinations.
T
he first Airbus A350 XWB for Qatar Airways is progressing towards delivery before year end. The aircraft, equipped with Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines, rolled out of the Airbus factory in Toulouse fully painted, prominently bearing Qatar Airways’ livery. Following the recent EASA Type Certification, the Qatar Airways A350-900 is now entering into its final stage of production, during which Airbus and the airline teams are actively working together in order to ensure a seamless handover process. The remaining steps up to delivery comprise notably the cabin completion, as well as ground and flight tests. The A350 XWB is Airbus’ all-new mid-size long range product line and the newest member of Airbus' leading widebody family.
Hamad Obaidala (left) and James Abraham Byandala, minister, works and transport, Uganda
flydubai Heads to Central Europe
f Bratislava
16
lydubai announced that it will launch flights to Bratislava, Slovakia; Prague, the Czech Republic; and Sofia, Bulgaria, in December. Addition of these three capital cities signifies the airline’s commitment towards serving the region, said Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai. “Central and Eastern Europe has always been an important market for us and we are glad that we are able to offer passengers from Bratislava, Prague and Sofia more possibilities to travel to Dubai,” added Jeyhun Efendi, senior vice president, commercial, UAE, Middle East, Europe and CIS, flydubai. 18 OCTOBER 2014
RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How important is the travel and tourism industry for Egypt? MOHSEN ABDIN: [According to Egypt’s State Information Service] this sector represents, in the national income, about 40 percent of the exported services for the whole country of Egypt, measuring about 20 percent of the hard currency resources of the country. It equals to seven percent of the direct national income and 11.3 percent if travel-related services are included. Working in this sector are 3.8 million employees in permanent jobs, financially supporting about 16 million family members, which constitute 17.8 percent of Egypt’s total inhabitants.
Q & A with
Mohsen Abdin GENERAL MANAGER, FLY WELL TRAVEL
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What steps has your company taken to promote the Egyptian tourism product? MOHSEN ABDIN: We have improved our website and social media sites, we are attending travel shows, especially World Travel Market in London and International Travel Bourse in Berlin. In addition, many overseas sales trips are taking place for us to meet with our current and potential new customers. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are your target markets in terms of nationality and niché segments for this year? What marketing initiatives are you implementing to lure them in MOHSEN ABDIN: North America, which is the US and Canada, Western Europe, especially the UK, and India, which is a new market. In addition, we are always well geared to handle any conferences or incentive groups from anywhere in the world. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which areas, and what segments of tourism (wildlife tourism, business tourism, diving tourism, cruises) have seen an increase in popularity in recent months? MOHSEN ABDIN: First, let me explain that Egypt has it all is a very true statement about tourism in Egypt. We have all sorts of tourism including conferences and incentive groups. Only beach holidays in Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh have been increased noticeably during the past few months. 18 OCTOBER 2014
WITH 225,000 HOTEL ROOMS IN OPERATION AND AS MANY IN THE PIPELINE, THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY IS SEEN AS EGYPT’S MOST PROMISING SECTOR, OFFERING EMPLOYMENT AND EXPANSION OPPORTUNITIES. MOHSEN ABDIN, GENERAL MANAGER, FLY WELL TRAVEL, FURTHER ELABORATES ON EGYPT’S PROSPECTS. The cultural classical sites like Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel are still suffering, and the ratio of growth would not be more than 20 percent of normal status based on my personal judgement. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are your expectations for the remainder of the year in terms of performance levels and how is your team working towards achieving these results?
“
THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY IS ONCE AGAIN AWAKENING IN EGYPT
MOHSEN ABDIN: I am feeling very optimistic as many tour operators from the US and UK have started sending inquiries about clients requesting programmes to visit Egypt, especially the cultural type. From [this month] onwards, the level of performance is increasing and I reckon, by Christmas and New Year, it will be close to normal. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Why should someone visit Egypt now? MOHSEN ABDIN: [Regarding terrorism] aside the terrorist attack in Taba, we had no attacks in tourists areas. All the demonstrations around the country are domestic affairs that have nothing to do with the tourists; it concerns people demanding to improve their living conditions like anywhere in the world, but misleading media shows it as if we are having a war in Egypt. [...] It is very important for the whole world to realise that by visiting Egypt, tourists contribute in maintaining and keeping safe the largest number of the world’s inherited monuments and architectural sites. A large part of the value of the entrance fees sold to visit the historical places and museums are dedicated to repair and maintain these monuments and architectures. The travel industry is once again awakening in Egypt since all measures of safety precautions have been completely recovered and implemented. This is also assured by the very hospitable, warm and welcoming Egyptian people. With the devaluation of the Egyptian Pound against the UK Sterling and the US Dollar, Egypt has become extremely attractive with very low and competitive rates. This is in addition to the fact that many suppliers offer discounts to increase demand to visit Egypt. Moreover, with the low number of visitors to historical sites and tombs, there are no queues to visit the sites with your guide. This is a very big advantage, especially with warm weather in upper Egypt. Lastly, with the economic drop in Egypt, and being the central balance country in the Middle East with more than 90 million inhabitants, it is vital to the Middle East area and maybe the whole world to maintain a strong Egypt against terrorist campaigns all over the world.
17
WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami
A
C
s of October 2, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company assumed management of ONE Bal Harbour Resort & Spa, transforming it to The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami, marking the 10th property in the hotel company’s luxurious Florida portfolio. The 18-storey tower, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal water way, is located in the ultra exclusive neighbourhood of Bal Harbour which is best known for its upscale shops and restaurants, and its close proximity to South Beach. The property boasts 124 ocean-views suites, a waterfront spa, ten private treatment suites, a restaurant, pool bar and grill and meeting facilities.
Radisson Blu Hotel Kampala
Carlson Rezidor Adds to Africa Portfolio
The Ritz-Carlton Expands in Florida
arlson Rezidor Hotel Group has further strengthened its position in the African market, adding Uganda to its portfolio, with the 195-room Radisson Blu Hotel Kampala. Set to open in the fourth quarter of 2016, the hotel will boast four food and beverage outlets, meeting space, an outdoor swimming pool, and a gym and spa. Commenting on the upcoming development, Bob Kabonero, chairman, Park Hospitality, the owning company of the hotel, commented, “We are thrilled to partner with Carlson Rezidor, whose vast experience and international expertise will ensure the successful execution of the first Radisson Blu hotel in Uganda. We aim to launch an upper upscale lifestyle hotel which brings world class facilities to the country.”
Minor Hotel Group Expands in Mozambique
M AVANI Pemba Beach Hotel & Spa
18
inor Hotel Group (MHG) has further expanded its presence in Mozambique through a significant hotel and mixed-use investment. The company has invested approximately USD101 million to acquire 49 percent of a hotel and mixed-use property project in Maputo, the capital city of Mozambique, in a joint venture with Rani Investment. The development consists of the existing 154-key Radisson Blu Hotel, together with a 187-key residential tower, as well as a 21-storey office tower, both of which are still under construction. Furthermore, MHG has also recently rebranded two of its properties which were part of a previous investment partnership with Rani Investment, AVANI Pemba Beach Hotel & Spa, and Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort & Spa. 18 OCTOBER 2014
AGENT CORNER
Agent’s Insight NAME:
Inna Ageyeva
POSITION:
Director, Middle East
COMPANY:
Terma Travel
LOCATION:
UAE
WEBSITE:
www.terma-travel.com
Algosaibi Travel Launches Online Booking Travel Solution
Who are you? I am Inna Ageyeva, director of Terma Travel in the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Terma Travel is the biggest destination management company in the Czech Republic which provides spa medical treatments, leisure, sightseeing and MICE services in Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Poland, Lithuania and other spa destinations.
B
ahrain-based agency Algosaibi Travel announced the launch of its new travel website, set to offer quick and easy access to the best deals and travel solutions for independent travellers and businesses. Speaking at the launching event, Fawaz Algosaibi, chairman, Algosaibi Travel, said, “This is a first for Bahrain and will play a key role in facilitating online booking requirements. As pioneers in the travel field, we surveyed the latest trends in the travel industry, which at large indicated a dramatic shift in consumer preferences towards budget online booking.”
What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? My favourite thing about working in the travel industry is receiving good feedback from clients and seeing them return to us. The satisfaction of our guests is priceless. When is the best time to visit Europe? The beauty of Europe attracts people from all over the world throughout the whole year because all the seasons are great and colourful. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? I would like to travel to some of our spa resorts for detox, beauty and relaxation. Why should people come to you for travel advice? Because we present a fully functional service on the Internet. Any customer can choose and book a hotel or resort, type of food, treatment, arrange transfer and select excursions step-by-step. Which is the percentage of MENA travellers your agency welcomes annually? Terma Travel Middle East is a [...] new branch running in its second year. [...] The number of MENA clients is increasing which makes us stronger and more confident here. 18 OCTOBER 2014
19
TRAVEL TALK
This new [A380] livery is a real step change
PETER KNAPP Global creative officer, Landor Associates
“Etihad Airways is undoubtedly a leading airline on the international stage and this new [A380] livery is a real step change in the industry. I believe there will be nothing like it on any apron in the world. It tells the remarkable story of this region and of Abu Dhabi’s past, present and future, providing a narrative for an innovative airline brand. We used the ambient geometry present in the architecture and culture of the emirate and reinterpreted it with a sense of Arabian modernism which has become synonymous with Etihad and Abu Dhabi itself.”
We are thrilled to be making such a significant impact in Dubai
ALAN LEIBMAN CEO, Kerzner International
“The success of Atlantis, The Palm has continued to exceed our financial performance expectations year-on-year and the time is right to usher in the next phase of this iconic development. The Royal Atlantis Resort and Residences will offer a new resort living experience, completely taking it to the next level, while adding an entirely new dynamic with our ultimate residences. As we continue to focus on our global growth strategy, we are thrilled to be making such a significant impact in Dubai, and to be building off the success of the Atlantis brand.”
Where the guests really feel at home
JEAN-PIERRE SIMON Regional general manager, Northern Emirates, Coral Hotels & Resorts
“The painting presented to Al Dente restaurant at Coral Beach Resort, Sharjah, by Mr. August and Mrs. Matty Schmid, who were going back to Austria after living in the UAE for over three decades is a great example of affection for a restaurant like Al Dente where the guests really feel at home and want to leave a gesture that is remembered, even when they are not around. We would like to thank Mrs. and Mr. Schmid for the beautiful present to our hotel and for having been regular guests of Al Dente for the past 33 years.”
TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
20
18 OCTOBER 2014
TRAVEL CHANNELS
Africa Global Business Forum Debuts in Dubai Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry organised the debut Africa Global Business Forum, brining together more than 700 government officials and prominent business representatives from across the Middle East and Africa.
H
eld under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler, Dubai, the event aimed at stimulating dialogue between key decision and policy makers and the private sector, providing a backdrop for forging new partnerships and discovering economic opportunities. H.E. Mohammed Al Shaibani, CEO, Investment Corporation, Dubai, commented, “For investments in Africa, having the right partner is key to kick-starting opportunities. We welcome our friends in Africa to use Dubai as a platform, and are proud to share our experiences and expertise.�
Emirates to Support Angola's Aviation Sector
Attendees of the Africa Global Business Forum
British Airways in Bahrain Supports Charity Initiative
B E
mirates and the government of Angola, in its capacity as the majority shareholder of TAAG - Angola Airlines, announced the signing of a Management Concession Agreement which will see Emirates take a role in the operation of the carrier. This initiative is to further Angola leadership's vision to create a world-class Angolan carrier with the support of Emirates. As part of the agreement, UAE's national carrier will work closely with the Angolan government and TAAG - Angola Airlines to formulate and implement a business plan, provide management support and devise fleet and route network strategies, whilst bringing synergy through the complementary networks.
18 OCTOBER 2014
ritish Airways team members in Bahrain rowed around the canals of the Amwaj Islands in support of Flying Start, the global charity partnership between British Airways and Comic Relief UK. Flying Start is a project that focusses on giving children and their families a helping hand rather than a handout, to contribute to a lasting change. Employees of the airline were running, rowing and cycling around the globe as part of an eight-day worldwide charity race, which saw the completion of nearly 26,000km around the world and raised over GBP53,000 (USD85,600) to help children living at risk in the UK, Africa and the US.
21
WHO’S MOVED
SHADI ELKHOURY
AHMED HOZAIEN
22
Shadi ElKhoury has joined the corporate office of City Seasons Hotels as group director for training. Having gained a 15-year experience while working with some of the biggest international chains in Lebanon and the GCC, ElKhoury will be in charge of the training programme for all City Seasons Hotels, as well as setting up new training initiatives and operational involvement in the pre-opening of the seventh City Seasons Hotel in Burjuman, scheduled to open towards the end of the year. The team at the corporate office has been steadily growing over past months in preparation of the anticipated opening, as well as new acquisitions and hotel launches abroad in the coming couple of years.
Ahmed Hozaien is the new managing director for the iconic tri-branded property in Mecca; Makkah Clock Royal Tower, a Fairmont Hotel, Raffles Makkah Palace and Swissôtel Makkah. At a pivotal time for FRHI Hotels & Resorts’ Mecca portfolio as the city serves as a landmark destination for religious travel, Hozaien’s extensive operational experience in key markets and in the city itself is to further reinforce the company’s brand presence and assist in setting the groundwork for future growth within Saudi Arabia. Hozaien, who brings over 25 years of hospitality experience having held several roles within multiple international brands, will be responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the hotels, which collectively include 3,306 guestrooms, suites and residences.
AFIF SALIBI
ANTHONY SLEWKAARMFELT
Afif Salibi has taken over one of the key roles at Raffles Dubai as director of operations. He has over 12 years of experience in the hospitality industry, of which seven years with Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, and is to play a vital role in maintaining Raffles Dubai’s prominent position as an iconic symbol of traditional Middle Eastern culture, ancient Egyptian history and refined Asian characteristics. Already familiar with Dubai, Salibi first joined Raffles Dubai in 2007 as assistant front office manager and was then swiftly promoted to front office manager in 2008. Subsequently, he served at the company’s properties in Cambodia and Canada before deciding to move back to the emirate to join his old team.
Anthony Slewka-Armfelt has settled in as director of sales and marketing for one of the most storied and established properties in the group’s portfolio, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. After more than a decade as a military officer, he changed track and went to work as a commercial consultant on industrial projects throughout the Middle East and Africa. In 2003, he shifted gears out of consulting and joined Accor on a hotel complex in Dubai. After five years in the Middle East with Accor, including dual responsibilities as regional director of sales for Middle East countries and a more specific oversight role at the commercial opening of a Sofitel property in Dubai, he relocated to Southeast Asia and moved into sales for Sofitel.
18 OCTOBER 2014
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...
Radisson Blu celebrates four years of hosting 10 million guests in Asia Pacific
Footballing giants Real Madrid and AC Milan to kick off in Dubai this December
Jamie Redknapp plays a shot from the wing of a British Airways Boeing 747
Qatar Airways held celebratory event following its launch of services to Dallas
British Airways employees Deborah Beedie and Maha Al Abbas raise money for Flying Start
18 OCTOBER 2014
23
NEWS & EVENTS
Immense Airport Show Planned in 2015
EVENTS INTERNATIONAL GOLF TRAVEL MARKET Lake Como, Italy October 27 – 30 www.igtm.co.uk The meeting place for the global business-to-business golf travel community.
Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre
D
ubai’s iconic airport industry event, Airport Show, is expected to witness a substantial increase in the number of exhibitors and hosted buyers and the gross exhibition space for the 2015 edition that will take place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 10 – 12, 2015. The event will focus on the USD100 billion regional airport developments with decision-makers utilising the annual show to explore and finalise their procurements and supplies, thereby offering immense business growth prospects for global exhibitors.
kno u o y d Di
w.
, the year ed This gather n t i n t e ia o ev 1 av s? 6,44 essional f o r p
24
SPORTS & EVENTS TOURISM EXCHANGE Durban, South Africa October 28 -30 www.thebereed.co.za A dynamic business-to-business event that is aimed at positioning South Africa as a sports and events tourism destination.
ITB ASIA Singapore October 29 – 31 www.itb-asia.com Taking place at the Sands Expo and Convention Center, Marina Bay Sands, it is organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore) and supported by the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau.
53rd INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS AND CONVENTION ASSOCIATION (ICCA) CONGRESS Antalya, Turkey November 1 – 5 www.icca14.iccaworld.com Each year ICCA puts together a comprehensive education programme specifically for that year’s congress, bringing together a creative mix of clients, external experts, and a wide range of ICCA members.
18 OCTOBER 2014