Travel Trade Weekly Issue 285

25 APRIL 2015

ISSUE 285

NAKHEEL REVEALS NEW MEGA PROJECTS AFTER MORE THAN A DECADE OF OPERATING HOTELS IN THE MIDDLE EAST, DUSIT INTERNATIONAL ENTERED INTO A COOPERATIVE VENTURE WITH DYAR HOTELS AND RESORTS TO DEVELOP PROJECTS IN SAUDI ARABIA AND QATAR.

08 ROTANA MAKES ITS FORAY INTO NIGERIA

09 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE

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PERFORMANCE

04

ACCOMMODATION

09

AIR

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RENDEZVOUS

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INTERNATIONAL

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AGENT CORNER

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TRAVEL TALK

20

TRAVEL CHANNELS

21

WHO’S MOVED

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PHOTO ALBUM

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NEWS & EVENTS

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DUSIT TO DEBUT IN SAUDI ARABIA AND QATAR

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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS

MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba

Jazeera Airways Group: Record Q4 Performance Jazeera Airways Group registered record fourth quarter (Q4) results in 2014, earning pre-transaction net profit of KWD3.8 million (USD12.6 million).

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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

his marks an increase of 47 percent on the same period in 2013.

The company’s full-year revenue totalled KWD68.8 million (USD228.7 million), up 4.9 percent year-on-year, with pre-transaction net profit rising 4.4 percent to KWD17.4 million (USD57.8 million).

The group’s cash position will soon be further enhanced through the sale of 15 Airbus A320s for USD507 million, as part of a strategic move to exit the aircraft leasing business and focus on Jazeera Airways, which has historically generated 80 percent of the company’s net profit.

Oman Air Development Plan Pays Off Oman Air reported a revenue of OMR398 million (USD1.03 billion) for 2014, up four percent year-on-year, reducing its losses by four percent to around OMR96 million (USD249 million).

MENA EXCHANGE RATES As of 24/4/2015 Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar

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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

98.25

Egypt (EGP)

Pound

7.62

Iran (IRR)

Rial

28,336.43

Iraq (IQD)

Dinar

1,156.39

Kuwait (KWD)

Dinar

0.30

Lebanon (LBP)

Pound

1,496.55

Libya (LYD)

Dinar

1.36

Morocco (MAD)

Dirham

9.92

Syria (SYP)

Pound

188.93

Tunisia (TND)

Dinar

1.94

Yemen (YER)

Rial

214.89

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uring the year, the airline carried 5.1 million passengers.

Capacity rose to 15.2 billion available seat kilometres, with an average load factor of 74.4 percent.

As H.E. Darwish Bin Ismail Al Balushi, chairman, Oman Air, pinpointed, the carrier is guided by a development plan endorsed in 2013.

“This has seen our company invest significantly in new narrowbody and widebody aircraft, new destinations, technology and staff.

The size of our fleet is expected to increase [...] to 50 aircraft by 2018, with a further increase to 70 aircraft being achieved by 2020,” said Al Balushi.

25 APRIL 2015

TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS Destinia Sets Up New Website and App

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nline travel agency, Destinia.com has launched a revamped website featuring fully integrated search tools and a completely responsive design, adaptable to all devices. The company has also introduced a new mobile app, allowing travellers to easily rent vehicles and manage their bookings.

The new platforms provide a personalised user experience by detecting

customers’ language preferences and currency, and choosing trending topics. “Adapting to the preferences of each market, and offering interesting recommendations for them is a key element in our service,� reinforced Amuda Goueli, CEO, Destinia.com, adding that the company sees a responsive website as an obligation rather than an option.

Virry Application Launched at Al Ain Zoo

The signing of the memorandum

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ountain Digital Labs has introduced Virry, an application designed for children eager to explore the animal kingdom which offers hours of entertainment and learning via smart technology.

Children with special needs in the UAE are granted free access to the newly-launched application as the company has recently inked a memorandum of understanding with Zayed Higher Organization at a ceremony at Al Ain Zoo, during the debut of the app.

Virry has been created in collaboration with child development researchers, and the resulting innovative ways of interacting within the game aim to make learning more effective.

25 APRIL 2015

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WEEKLY NEWS HOTEL PERFORMANCE Riyadh Hotel Performance Grows, Jeddah Witnesses Slowdown

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our- and five-star properties in Riyadh recorded an increase in performance levels for the month of February compared to the same period in 2014. A simultaneous rise in occupancy of 6.3 percentage points to 76.9 percent and in average room rate (ARR) of 2.1 percent to USD252.54 resulted in a double-digit 11.2 percent growth in RevPAR. However, the increase in total RevPAR was partially weighed down by weak food and beverage revenues.

Conversely, hotels in Jeddah witnessed demand slowing down as occupancy declined by 1.7 percentage points to 77.6 percent and ARR dropped by a marginal 0.3 percent to USD251.44.

As a consequence, RevPAR depreciated by 2.5 percent for the period, a trend which was also reflective of year-to-date results. A similar decline witnessed in other revenue streams such as conferencing and food and beverage further dampened total RevPAR by three percent to USD309.07, forcing gross operating profit per available room (GOPPAR) to contract by 12.3 percent to USD127.77.

According to the latest data from HotStats, Saudi Arabia presented a mixed picture in February with dissimilar results in Riyadh and Jeddah, whereas Manama and Sharm El Sheikh did not perform as expected either. On the other hand, Abu Dhabi registered a pleasant surprise with average room rates rising 27 percent.

Average Room Rates Surge in Abu Dhabi

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oteliers in Abu Dhabi were able to capitalise on higher demand levels in February, as ARR increased by 27.1 percent to USD206.32, while occupancy levels grew 3.4 percentage points to 84 percent.

The significant rise in ARR helped RevPAR climb 32.5 percent, translating it to a double-digit improvement in total RevPAR to USD26.36. The room rates boost, in addition to stronger food and beverage revenues, drove a major growth in bottom-line performance as GOPPAR surged by 43.9 percent to USD132.91.

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Mixed Results for Manama and Sharm El Sheikh

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ahrain capital city’s hotel market experienced downward pressures on RevPAR in February as occupancy fell 7.3 percentage points to 54.2 percent and ARR remained stagnant at USD185.56. The 11.6 percent decline in RevPAR impacted total RevPAR which contracted by 3.6 percent, although to a lesser degree due to increased food and beverage demand. As a result of lower top-line revenues, the profitability of Manama hotels fell with GOPPAR contracting by 4.9 percent to USD57.50.

After a strong period of growth achieved in the previous months, hotels in Sharm El Sheikh also reported a drop in RevPAR of four percent to USD19.02 in February. Although ARR increased by 13.1 percent to USD37.49, it was not sufficient enough to offset a nine percentage point decline in occupancies to 50.7 percent and subsequent reductions of food and beverage revenue. The softer overall revenue levels impacted total RevPAR which contracted by 8.7 percent, resulting in GOPPAR levels falling to USD3.65.

25 APRIL 2015

WEEKLY NEWS

UAE Tourism Credentials Promoted in India National Council for Tourism and Antiquities conducted a road show in India to promote the UAE’s products and services, specially tailored to meet Indian travellers’ needs.

H. UAE delegation

25 APRIL 2015

E. Mohammed Khamis bin Hareb Al Muhairi, director general, National Council for Tourism and Antiquities, deemed India to be one of the major markets contributing to the tourism industry’s growth worldwide, and in the UAE in particular due to the geographical proximity and the ancient cultural ties between the two regions.

The initiative was organised under the hashtag #VisitUAE, and the Emirati delegation visited three locations, namely New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.

USD27.2 Million Image Deal for Dubai Parks and Resorts

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ubai Parks and Resorts inked an agreement with image solutions provider, Picsolve International to create one of the world’s largest photography integrations at Dubai’s upcoming tourist destination.

The deal, which is expected to bring some AED100 million (USD27.7 million) in revenues over a five-year period, will see the technology expert managing a full-range of digital, video and image capture solutions that will allow guests to enjoy a seamless photo record of their visit.

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WEEKLY NEWS KFIA Officially Launches Cargo Village

Sharjah Showcased in Saudi Arabia

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Riyadh Travel Fair

n line with its strategy to highlight Sharjah’s tourism potential both within and outside the region, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) participated in the recently concluded Riyadh Travel Fair.

The SCTDA delegation used the event to further consolidate the emirate’s position as a preferred destination for visitors from the Kingdom, which represents a large share in annual visitor figures.

A host of prominent events organised in celebration of Sharjah’s Capital of Arab Tourism title were highlighted, along with the most anticipated projects.

The authority also aimed to widen the horizons for joint cooperation and attract more tourism opportunities from the Gulf market.

ing Fahd International Airport (KFIA) unveiled its 500,000m2 Cargo Village, a facility designed to position KFIA as a multimodal shipment and clearance destination. The village offers direct access to Saudi Arabia and bypasses the need for cargo to transship through neighbouring countries.

Yousef Al-Dhahri, director general, KFIA said, “With our continued partnership with Changi Airports International and their efforts, we are on track to becoming one of the region’s leading aviation hubs serving both passenger and cargo traffic.”

Ajman

Tourism Transport Operations to Improve in Ajman

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epresentatives of the Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) and Ajman Public Transport Corporation (APTC) came together to discuss ways of developing tourism transport services in the emirate.

During the meeting, Farooq Mukhtar, head of tracking systems division, APTC, highlighted the organisation’s role in registering tourism transport companies and providing them with permission to work in Ajman, in addition to monitoring their activities in cooperation with ATDD. Tourism transportation forms part of the second stage of ATDD’s project on classification of tourism related sectors, which also focusses on travel agencies and tourist restaurants.

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25 APRIL 2015

WEEKLY NEWS

Dubai Metro’s Red Line Approved

Nakheel Reveals New Mega Projects

Dubai Metro’s Red Line

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H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, has approved the Masar 2020 project which extends Dubai Metro’s Red Line from Nakheel Harbour & Tower metro station to the site of Expo 2020. Once completed, the new line will stretch over 15km with seven stations.

As Mattar Al Tayer, chairman, Roads and Transport Authority, noted, Masar 2020 will ensure smooth mobility.

“It stands out as a vital transit corridor linking various Dubai districts with Al Maktoum International Airport, an icon of a new important development phase in the history of Dubai, and a symbol of sustainability, advancement and creativity for current and future generations,” added Al Tayer.

akheel announced a range of new retail, residential and leisure developments in Dubai’s Deira Islands, Dragon Mart and Ibn Battuta Mall, with a combined built-up area of over two million square metres.

The projects, which are set to further boost the destination’s shopping, living, business and tourism credentials, include a 604,000m2 residential, retail and hotel extension for Dragon Mart with a 250-unit accommodation establishment; a new 437,000m2 complex at Ibn Battuta Mall with a four-star, 370-key hotel, among others; and a 1.1 million square metres, 16-tower community at Deira Islands.

Nakheel developments

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Yas Marina

Saudi Online Travel Sales Increase in 2014 new report published by Euromonitor International for The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia revealed that online travel sales in Saudi Arabia grew by a record 40 percent in 2014 and are to reach SAR6.5 billion (USD1.73 billion) this year, with the figure set to double by 2019. The UAE ranked as the most popular destination in 2014.

Saudi Arabia is third globally in terms of smartphone ownership with a penetration rate of nearly 73 percent, and as a result mobile sales for hotels experienced a 28 percent increase in 2014.

The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia will be held in Jeddah between May 03 – 05.

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25 APRIL 2015

ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS now. . k u o y ank Did Citib

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Rotana Makes its Foray into Nigeria Rotana has signed its first property in Nigeria under the Centro brand.

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ocated in an exclusive part of the country’s largest city, Lagos, in close proximity to major landmarks and business districts, the 200 plus-key hotel and serviced apartments property will be launched in partnership with Topwide Ventures.

Commenting on the introduction of Centro Lagos, Omer Kaddouri, president, Rotana, said, “Despite being home to a flourishing hospitality industry, Lagos has the highest average rates on hotel accommodation in Africa. Centro Lagos fills this major gap in the industry and heralds a potential paradigm shift in the city’s hospitality scene.”

Omer Kaddouri (left) and Annie Okonkwo, chairman, Topwide Ventures

Four Seasons Riyadh Delights Business Commuters

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eekly business commuters heading to the Saudi capital can indulge in an even more rewarding stay at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre with the property’s new executive business package which includes luxurious accommodation in one of the hotel’s 274 rooms and suites, and a slew of perks to maximise productivity and efficiency.

“Convenience is key when travelling for business,” stressed Anthony Tyler, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, reaffirming the management’s commitment to meeting these travellers’ individual needs.

St. Regis Debuts in Turkey

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tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has unveiled Turkey’s first St. Regis-branded property.

Nestled in the sophisticated Nişantaşı neighbourhood, The St. Regis Istanbul is surrounded by designer boutiques and art galleries. It sits atop Maçka Park and boasts 118 guestrooms and suites.

Michael Wale, president, Europe, Africa and Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, described Turkey as a burgeoning destination for luxury travellers and one of the key growth markets for the company.

To celebrate the hotel’s debut, St. Regis partnered with Hollywood star John Malkovich, who wrote and directed A Postcard from Istanbul, an original short film.

25 APRIL 2015

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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Swiss-Belhotel Takes Over First Abu Dhabi Hotel

Tilal Liwa Hotel Eyes Growing Markets

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Tilal Liwa Hotel

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ilal Liwa Hotel’s management is determined to capture a fair share of the region’s most lucrative markets at this year’s Arabian Travel Market.

The property’s delegation will focus on attracting clients from China, Russia, France, Australia and Saudi Arabia, along with the traditionally strong UK and German-speaking markets.

The team of the UAE’s secluded hideaway resort will target the weekend, leisure and group segments, as Khaled Sharabassy, general manager, Tilal Liwa Hotel, revealed.

“This season, we have organised more adventure activities like stargazing, desert football, volleyball and other outdoor entertainment and sports activities in the desert,” added Sharabassy.

wiss-Belhotel Corniche Abu Dhabi has officially become Swiss-Belhotel International’s first property in the UAE capital.

Noel Massoud, vice president, operations and development, Middle East, SwissBelhotel International, commented that the hotel enjoys an advantageous location given its proximity to the city centre and other key sites in the capital.

“This hotel’s uniqueness lies in the spacious rooms and suites, and its location in the heart of the city in close proximity to Abu Dhabi attractions and the beach,” he said.

The new property brings the group’s portfolio in the Middle East to 11 hotels, following the most recent addition of SwissBelresort Ghantoot, Dubai in 2014.

25 APRIL 2015

ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS

DUSIT TO DEBUT IN SAUDI ARABIA AND QATAR After more than a decade of operating hotels in the Middle East, Dusit International entered into a cooperative venture with a local partner in Saudi Arabia, Dyar Hotels and Resorts.

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signing ceremony was held to formally establish a joint hospitality management company.

The new entity is already off to a solid start, with three hotel projects in the pipeline confirmed. One will be located in Jeddah under the Dusit Thani label, while the two others, to be situated in Jeddah and Doha, will come under the chic and contemporary dusitD2 brand.

A further five properties are currently under negotiation in the Holy Cities of Mecca and Medina.

The launch of the collaboration

Wyndham Opts for Sabre’s Reservations Solution

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yndham Hotel Group is to move its central reservations systems to Sabre’s SynXis solution.

The deal expands on a strategic property management services agreement forged in 2014, to migrate 4,500 Wyndham-branded properties to Sabre’s software-as-aservice management system, SynXis Property Manager. The first hotel to participate under a successful pilot is Days Inn Raleigh Downtown in North Carolina, US. “Wyndham Hotel Group’s commitment to leveraging the most advanced technology solutions from Sabre for its franchisees will help drive profitability and maximise yield,” said Tom Klein, president, Sabre.

25 APRIL 2015

Central Hotels to Showcase Centre of Hospitality

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entral Hotels is preparing to promote its flagship First Central Hotel Apartments at the upcoming Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, and will also unveil new projects including two new properties in the Burj Khalifa district, two on Palm Jumeirah, one in Palm Deira and one in the TECOM area.

“With real estate development at the core of our business, our participation in this year’s ATM will highlight First Central Hotel Apartments […] and will reveal upcoming projects that will cater to a mix of travellers,” said Ahmad Abdulla Al Ansaari, chairman, Central Hotels.

First Central Hotel Apartments

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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Coral Beach Resort Sharjah to Tap into the Chinese Market

Mövenpick to Debut in Dubai Media City in 2017

Coral Beach Resort Sharjah

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ooking to capture a fair share of the burgeoning Chinese market, Coral Beach Resort Sharjah participated in the recentlyheld China Outbound Travel & Tourism Market in Beijing.

Jean Pierre Simon, regional general manager, Northern Emirates, Coral Hotels & Resorts, noted that as the Capital of Arab Tourism for the current year, Sharjah generated increased interest these months.

“During the past few years, the interest of Chinese and Asian tourists in Sharjah and other parts of the UAE has been consistently growing [...]. It is important for us to tap this massive market,” concluded Simon.

övenpick Hotels & Resorts has revealed plans to open its first property in Dubai Media City

in 2017.

Standing adjacent to the AED4.5 billion (USD1.23 billion) innovation hub announced by the government, Mövenpick Hotel Dubai Media City will boast 251 units, four restaurants and lounges, a spa, gym, swimming pool and a ballroom with four meeting rooms.

As Andreas Mattmüller, chief operating officer, Middle East and Asia, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, noted, the cutting-edge innovation project is set to significantly expand the district’s appeal and the new hotel, which will take the company’s Dubai portfolio to eight properties, will be wellplaced to cater to the increased demand.

25 APRIL 2015

ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS Park Inn by Radisson in Al Rigga to Open in May

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arlson Rezidor Hotel Group is gearing up for the launch of Park Inn by Radisson Hotel Apartments Al Rigga in Dubai, scheduled to welcome its first guests this May. The mid-market property will offer 149 studios and apartments, two restaurants, a banquet hall, a health club and an outdoor pool.

“Relaunched as a contemporary and compelling brand for young and youthful travellers, Park Inn

by Radisson is a great addition to the city’s hospitality market,” said Wolfgang Neumann, president, The Rezidor Hotel Group, adding that the new property will allow the company to capture additional guest segments like families.

DUKES Oceana

DUKES Collection to Debut in Dubai

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uxury property developer and holding company, Seven Tides has unveiled its latest upscale project, the five-star DUKES Oceana, Dubai hotel and residences.

Set on Palm Jumeirah, the first international property for the DUKES Collection brand is scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2016.

According to Abdulla bin Sulayem, CEO, Seven Tides, the project will bring quintessential British charm and style to the UAE. The 273-room hotel will offer a private beach, indoor pool and outdoor infinity pool plus state-ofthe-art gym, along with a number of restaurants. The adjacent property will comprise 227 studio and onebedroom apartments.

25 APRIL 2015

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WEEKLY NEWS AIR

Emirates Boosts Links to India and Bangladesh Emirates has increased its operations to Dhaka, Bangladesh and Kolkata, India to 21 and 23 weekly flights respectively.

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he Dubai-based airline also added capacity on its Kolkata route by deploying a Boeing 777-200 aircraft and offering first class cabins to passengers flying to the Indian city.

As Ahmed Khoory, senior vice president, commercial operations, West Africa and Indian Ocean, Emirates, noted, with the additional frequencies, travellers can enjoy greater travel options and seamless connections to other routes on Emirates’ extensive global network.

Qatar Airways Enhances S7 Partnership

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atar Airways has further strengthened its relationship with fellow oneworld member S7 Airline with the implementation of additional codeshare routes across its network.

The Qatari carrier first teamed up with the Russian airline in late 2014, providing passengers travelling from Doha with seamless connections to various domestic destinations served by S7 Airlines.

The expansion of the agreement will now enable the Middle Eastern carrier’s customers to continue their journey to more locations including Kaliningrad, Tomsk, Ufa and Volgograd, to name just a few.

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25 APRIL 2015

AIR WEEKLY NEWS

Multan to Join Air Arabia Network

Emirates: Second Daily A380 Service to Zürich

flydubai Steps Up African Operations

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ultan is the next destination to be added to Air Arabia’s fast-expanding route map.

Starting May 1, the carrier will operate four weekly flights to the Pakistani city from Sharjah on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, bringing the number of locations served by the airline in the country to six.

As Adel Ali, group CEO, Air Arabia, noted, with a population of more than 180 million and within just a few hours flight time from the UAE, Pakistan has always been a promising market for the company.

“We look forward to further investing in increasing our reach in Pakistan by offering more destinations and flights in the near future,” added Ali.

mirates announced a second daily Airbus A380 flight to Zürich, adding 945 seats a week on the route, 280 of which will represent first and business class seats.

As of October 1, Emirates will upgrade the current Boeing 777-300ER serving the route, after the introduction of the first A380 in January 2014.

“We anticipate that adding a second daily A380 to Zurich will not only enhance the travel experience of our passengers, but also stimulate trade and tourism between Switzerland, the Middle East, Africa and the Far East,” commented Hubert Frach, divisional senior vice president, commercial operations, west, Emirates.

lydubai is increasing frequency on a number of its African routes.

As part of its new summer schedule, the low-cost carrier now operates daily services to the capital of South Sudan, Juba, and three weekly flights to Bujumbura in Burundi.

In response to high demand, Zanzibar will be served four times a week, while Alexandria in Egypt will be linked to Dubai thrice a day from June.

Launched in September 2009, Djibouti was flydubai′s first destination in Africa and today, the airline serves 12 points on the continent. With the increased frequencies, passengers will be able to take advantage of 78 Dubai – Africa flights per week.

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25 APRIL 2015

Zanzibar

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WEEKLY NEWS AIR Emirates SkyCargo Launches Bali Service

Air Malta to ServeLebanon Oran Services Emirates Upgrades

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mirates SkyCargo will soon add Bali to its Asia Pacific operations, opening up a new trade lane between the destination and its network of more than 140 destinations.

Following the development, Emirates SkyCargo will operate four daily flights to Indonesia, offering 294 tonnes of capacity per week both ways.

Nabil Sultan, divisional senior vice president, cargo, Emirates, commented, “[This] opens up new opportunities for businesses on the island as well as for those across our network […]. Our hub, Dubai, which is strategically located between east and west, enables us to offer our customers in the Asia Pacific region access to markets in the Middle East, Africa and Europe.”

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mirates is reinforcing its commitment to Lebanon by upgrading both of its aircraft serving Beirut to an all Boeing 777 operation.

The airbus 330-200, which is currently deployed on one of the two daily services to the Lebanese capital, will be replaced by a larger Boeing 777-200LR from June 1, translating into a 12 percent boost in capacity. This will be followed by the second flight upgauge in January 2016 to a Boeing 777-300, resulting in a 53 percent increase in available seats.

Qatar Airways Expands Deal with Asian Partners

Jetairfly Expands in Algeria

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Constantine

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etairfly has commenced operations from Brussels South Charleroi Airport (BSCA) to Tlemcen and Constantine in Algeria.

With this move, travellers can now fly to five Algerian cities from Charleroi, while the total number of destinations available with the Belgian carrier from the airport rose to 23.

“The excellent partnership that binds Jetairfly and Charleroi means that we can offer our passengers a wide range of major destinations at very reasonable prices,” noted Jean-Jacques Cloquet, CEO, BSCA, further adding that the hub offers now the second largest number of routes available with Jetairfly.

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atar Airways further enriched its collaboration with Cathay Pacific Airways and Japan Airlines, both being oneworld members.

The extended deals offer new routes from Doha to Muscat and São Paulo, as well as 24 domestic codeshare itineraries with the Japanese carrier.

“Becoming a member of oneworld in October 2013 was a significant landmark in Qatar Airways’ relatively young history [...]. The joining of this alliance, and the addition of these new codeshares, enables our passengers to avail of additional travel options, with ease, across routes that encompass the entire globe,” commented Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways.

25 APRIL 2015

RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: In your opinion, what are travellers booking a luxury holiday looking for? What makes Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh the ideal choice for these discerning guests?

ANTHONY TYLER: Luxury travellers these days are looking for experiences that raise the emotional bar. Guests today seek experiences over tangible goods; a blissful spa visit or a one-of-akind gastronomical experience is more important than the square footage of a bathroom. Today’s luxury travellers are also looking for a more intimate exploration of a destination’s culture and people, and it has become increasingly apparent that high-end travellers seek out the hotels that can provide them with memories that will last a lifetime.

To meet our guests’ expectations of luxury at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, we strive to understand how our guests spend their time, which allows us to tailor our service approach to a guest’s individual needs.

For business travellers this often means helping them maximise their time and effectiveness to achieve the purpose of their trip through convenient, time-saving services such as our one hour pressing service, 24-hour room service, in-room technology that is easy to use and house cars equipped with wireless Internet access.

For our leisure guests, value is about experiencing opportunities for relaxation that are unique, customised, authentic and unforgettable, delivered through thoughtful gestures and seamless service. With four exquisite dining options, a newly refurbished men’s spa, a women-only floor The Pearl and a spectacular new duplex Kingdom Suite, the hotel is the ideal environment for discerning consumers that seek discreet experiences of luxury without compromise.

Q & A with Anthony Tyler

GENERAL MANAGER, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL RIYADH AT KINGDOM CENTRE

25 APRIL 2015

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: As hotel amenities in the region continue to improve and become more and more personalised, what is next for the regional luxury travel market?

ANTHONY TYLER: As consumers continue to become more digitally savvy and selective, hotel brands must find ways to naturally insert themselves into the digital habitat of the luxury traveller by providing a virtual brand experience that reflects their products and services.

In the near future, many of the current room features considered luxury in hotels will become standard, and brands will seek in-room technological innovations to enhance the guest experience and further differentiate their offerings from their competition.

Alarm clocks that wake up guests by increasing the light in a room, floors with built-in sensors to light the way for guests, televisions that work via voice recognition and room doors that can be unlocked via mobile phone interface are all innovations that are today being introduced around the region.

WHEN IT COMES TO HOTELS, DISCERNING TRAVELLERS EXPECT THE VERY BEST; THIS, HOWEVER, MEANS FAR MORE THAN EXQUISITE DECOR AND GOURMET DINING OPTIONS, AS ANTHONY TYLER, GENERAL MANAGER, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL RIYADH AT KINGDOM CENTRE, EXPLAINS.

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How would you describe a typical luxury traveller?

ANTHONY TYLER: Luxury travellers nowadays have an insatiable curiosity for new experiences and value technology, identity, design and adventure. They are looking for intrinsic value and a deeper relationship with the brands they choose to support and with which they interact.

Travel for the luxury traveller is

about hands on, high-touch experiences, about growing, learning and understanding the history of their destination. They want ultimate personalisation but simple, seamless service delivery.

Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: The Middle East is already home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels.

Is there room for more establishments?

ANTHONY TYLER: Even in times of political uncertainty, the economic growth in the Middle East has remained steady. The region is considered an important gateway for business and leisure tourism and is emerging as a magnet for MICE and large scale events.

In response to this growth, many new projects are at various stages of development.

In some markets there might be short term imbalance between the offer and demand, but with ever growing numbers of guests travelling to and around the region, our industry is at the heart of reinvigorating and reshaping the Middle East.

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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL

Carlson Rezidor Plans to Exceed 170 Hotels in India

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BWI Introduces Two Brand New Products

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Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi

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arlson Rezidor Hotel Group aims to strengthen its position in India by boosting its presence in state capitals and accelerating its growth in emerging cities, with particular focus on the southern and western parts. The company is to enlarge its India portfolio to over 170 hotels within the next five years.

“We intend to have a hotel in every major city in India with landmark hotels in every state capital,” said Raj Rana, CEO, South Asia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.

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est Western International (BWI) launched two new global hotel products – Vîb, an urban boutique hotel concept, and the BW Premier Collection, a soft brand targeting upscale and luxury independent hotels.

“We believe that the stylish design of Vîb combined with the concepts business model and low cost to build will be very appealing to developers and investors throughout Asia,” said David Kong, president, BWI. The first Vîb to be developed is a 148-room new construction project in Seoul, South Korea.

Commenting on the BW Premier Collection, Kong said, “We think the unique pay-forperformance fee structure of the BW Premier Collection will be very attractive to independent hoteliers.”

Swiss-Belhotel Announces Georgian Debut

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wiss-Belhotel International penned a deal for the 182room Grand Swiss-Belhotel Batumi, Georgia in partnership with Azerbaijan-based ADO-G Group of Companies. The hotel, which will open in 2016, is to include a 1,300m2 casino.

Gavin Faull, president, SwissBelhotel International, said, “Grand Swiss-Belhotel Batumi will be the city's new address for luxury and entertainment. With a sky bar, specialty restaurants and tastefully developed rooms, it will provide this rapidly changing coastal city on the Black Sea with a unique and iconic 111m high cubical structure.”

BWI's new Vib concept

25 APRIL 2015

AGENT CORNER

Agent’s Insight NAME:

Milena Efremova

POSITION:

Managing director

COMPANY:

Atlantic Tour

LOCATION:

Bulgaria

WEBSITE:

www.atlantictour.bg

Saudi OTA Partners with Wego

Who are you?

Atlantic Tour is an inbound tour operator and destination management company serving Bulgaria and Romania. We provide a full range of travel services in both countries, from the most simple hotel bookings to tailor-made trips, escorted tours, incentive programmes, event organising, guiding services and ground transportation. Our clients come from Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, US, UK, Spain, Portugal, Germany and other countries.

What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry?

Our work is our hobby. We love what we do and therefore we do it with passion.

When is the best time to visit Bulgaria?

We have four seasons and each season offers a specific charm. However, the period between April and October is generally the most pleasant.

Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday?

Latin America.

Why should people come to you for travel advice?

At Atlantic Tour you will get a professional and comprehensive travel advice.

25 APRIL 2015

S

audi Arabia-based online travel agency (OTA), Almosafer has teamed up with meta-search website and travel application provider, Wego to benefit from a host of hotel deals and popular local payment options.

As Ross Veitch, CEO, Wego, noted, with the shift adoption of online travel planning and booking, the Kingdom has established itself as one of the company’s fastest growing markets.

Wego estimated the MENA online travel market’s total value at around USD29 billion in 2014, with Saudi Arabia being the largest individual contributor to the amount.

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TRAVEL TALK

It is important for public and private sectors to focus on specific areas

HUMAID AL DHAHERI Acting CEO, Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC)

“One of the key competitive advantages of Abu Dhabi as a meeting and event destination is its strategic geographical positioning at the crossroads of many fast-growing economies in Asia, Europe and the Americas. Given this advantage, we are able to continue attracting international events [...]. We believe it is important for public and private sectors to focus on specific areas identified by the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision of 2030 and align strategies towards achieving the defined goals.”

Sharjah reflects the true image of Arab tourism

MICHAEL KASCH General manager, Centro Sharjah

We cannot wait […] to continue the fan engagement activities

PETER BAUMGARTNER Chief commercial officer, Etihad Airways

“The Pepsi Indian Premier League is recognised as one of the most exciting competitions in world sport, with the Mumbai Indians [being] its biggest team, so it is great news for Etihad Airways to be named as the team’s joint airline partner and principle sponsor alongside our friends at Jet Airways. We cannot wait […] to continue the fan engagement activities, particularly in social media, which were so popular in 2014.”

“Celebrated as the Cultural Capital of the UAE, Sharjah reflects the true image of Arab tourism. A remarkable opportunity for the industry is reinstated in the emirate’s title as the Capital of Arab Tourism for the year.

Sharjah boasts authentic Arab heritage, historical sites, golden beaches and sunny weather all year round. […] Such an accolade [recognises] the admirable efforts taken by Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority to bring the emirate global eminence. Sharjah will always be the epitome of Arab Tourism [...].”

Technology and Internet are key fundamentals needs of business travellers

RABIH ZEIN General manager, Park Inn by Radisson Muscat and Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm

“These days, technology and Internet are key fundamental needs of business travellers. As a hotel, of course we are present on social media platforms which help us to engage with our guests. We are now living in the age of mobile web. We are offering a free high-speed Wi-Fi Internet throughout the hotel, which is the basic and fundamental need of a business traveller. Our goal is to provide the best service to our valuable guests and meet their expectations.”

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

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25 APRIL 2015

TRAVEL CHANNELS

Etihad Marks World Health Day In celebration of the World Health Day, Etihad Airways hosted a health and wellness fair for more than 1,000 employees and their families.

O

rganised at the airline’s Abu Dhabi headquarters, the event aimed to raise health awareness while also providing education sessions and screening.

Participants enjoyed an array of activities including live cooking demonstrations, nutrition advice, full medical and dental check-ups, safety demonstrations, screening services and weight, skin and hair analysis.

As Nadia Bastaki, vice president, medical services, Etihad Airways, explained, the company’s medical centre provides convenient and free-of-charge services to improve employees’ wellbeing.

Sharjah’s Heritage Village Enthralls Kids

Family Fun Health and Wellness Fair in Abu Dhabi

Lunar New Year Travel Adds to Strong Air Traffic Growth

I Children’s Heritage Village

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ore than 4,000 young visitors joined the celebrations during the first five days of the 13th edition of Sharjah Heritage Days.

To appeal to the younger generations, a dedicated Children’s Heritage Village was set up offering a plethora of activities, including various workshops. Bands from Ukraine, Russia and Kazakhstan performed interactive music and dance routines on stage, while folk stories about Emirati traditions and culture were presented in the Tales Camp to, as Abdul Aziz Al Musallam, chairman, Sharjah Heritage Institute, said, help kids connect with their heritage.

25 APRIL 2015

nternational Air Transport Association (IATA)’s data for February show a strengthening in demand growth compared to the same month of 2014.

Total revenue passenger kilometres rose 6.2 percent year-on-year, with the Lunar New Year holiday having a positive effect of the results. In addition, February’s available seat kilometres (ASK) increased 5.6 percent while load factor rose 0.5 percentage points to 78.5 percent.

As per IATA’s report, Middle Eastern carriers’ demand climbed 8.7 percent and African airlines’ traffic fell two percent, while ASK slipped 1.7 percent, resulting in a 0.2 percentage point dip in load factor to 63.5 percent, which was the lowest for any region.

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WHO’S MOVED

BASSEM AL HAJJ

NEVINE NOUR

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Bassem Al Hajj has been appointed director of sales and marketing at Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Al Bida’a Kuwait.

Al Hajj is no stranger to Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, having previously held various positions within the company, including director of sales and marketing at Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Yanbu, and the same role at the Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts’ international sales office in charge of the Northern Gulf countries.

All in all, he was more than 12 years of sales experience from across the luxury hospitality industry in the Middle East.

In Kuwait, Al Hajj will be responsible for the execution of all of the hotel’s sales and marketing strategies and activities, including events and conferences.

Nevine Nour has taken on the position of director of sales for Amadeus Egypt.

Nour will be in charge of managing and directing the company’s sales in Egypt and ensuring that Amadeus maintains its reputation in the market.

Having been in the travel industry for more than 15 years, Nour has extensive expertise.

After gaining experience as an account manager at Egypt's British Airways offices between 1995 and 2006, she joined Amadeus in 2010 as an account manager and was later promoted to sales manager in 2013.

Over the past years, Nour has played a key role in building customer relations in this important market and achieving high customer satisfaction.

CHRISTIAN PALACIN

VINCENT HOOGEWIJS

Christian Palacin continues as the new general manager of City Seasons Hotel Dubai.

Palacin holds a management diploma from a French hotel school and a master’s degree in hospitality management from Cornell University. Having held various operational and managerial positions with renowned international companies such as Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and Golden Tulip, Palacin has over 20 years of experience. He played a vital role in a number of large renovation projects and hotel openings.

This is Palacin’s second stint in the UAE, having previously worked in Abu Dhabi.

At City Seasons Hotel Dubai, he will oversee the refurbishment work at the hotel and he will also be in charge of the successful launch of new food and beverage outlets.

Vincent Hoogewijs has been chosen to lead the team at Four Seasons Hotel Amman as the new general manager.

From Bangkok and Tokyo to Mumbai, Mexico, Canberra and Rabat, Hoogewijs has held executive-level positions in a myriad of destinations and more than a dozen countries.

Now, as regional vice president and general manager, he will put his experience to work on a top-to-bottom renovation at the Jordanian property.

He first joined Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in 2004 as hotel manager at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, where he later served as regional vice president and general manager.

Before heading to Jordan, he worked as general manager at Four Seasons-branded hotels in Mexico City, Mumbai and Sydney, among others.

25 APRIL 2015

PHOTO ALBUM

Take a Shot!

Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to.

Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...

flydubai captain performs an inspection of the fan blades before the Boeing 737-800 gets ready to take off

Novotel, ibis and Adagio Fujairah′s team helped to clean Wadi Wurayah National Park, home to more than 800 species of plants and animals

These young Air Arabia fans prove that it is never too early to start a career in the industry

25 APRIL 2015

Golf buggy converted into a wedding car by JA Resorts & Hotels′ team

Mövenpick Kuwait Hotel offered cooking classes for kids and children from Alfossha Nursery

Songkran celebrations at Dusit Thani Dubai with Thai dishes, dances and cultural programmes

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NEWS & EVENTS Turkey to Host Largest Halal Tourism Event

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urkey has been selected as the host country of this year’s Halal Tourism Conference (HTC), which will bring together professionals from across the globe. Some 1,000 delegates from over 50 countries, including industry experts, international speakers, specialists and tourism suppliers, are expected to attend the event, which will take place between December 01 – 03 in Istanbul. Under the theme of Developing The Global Future of Halal Tourism, this year’s edition will focus on Europe’s role in the future of the industry, which is estimated to worth some USD150 billion.

Seychelles Sponsor Dubai Bride Show

S

eychelles Tourism Office Middle East, in partnership with Enchanted Island Resort and Air Seychelles, participated in the Dubai Bride Show, held in March, as silver sponsors.

Now in its 18th year, Dubai Bride Show concluded a successful event in which thousands of visitors were given the opportunity to shop and interact with a number of suppliers that cater to wedding needs, such as planning, dresses, accessories, jewelleries and wedding and honeymoon destinations.

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EVENTS THE HOTEL SHOW SAUDIA ARABIA Jeddah, Saudi Arabia May 03 – 05 www.thehotelshowsaudiarabia.com Now in its third year, the event addresses hospitality professionals in terms of technology, supplies, interiors as well as food and beverage offerings.

ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Dubai, UAE May 04 – 07 www.arabiantravelmarket.com Arabian Travel Market has provided a place to do face-toface business with companies from around the globe for the past 21 years, and this year′s edition promises to be even larger.

CHINA GUILIN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM EXPO (CGITE) Guilin, China May 29 – 31 www.cgite.com.cn Part of Conference & Exhibition Management Services’ travel and tourism portfolio, CGITE brings together Chinese and international buyers and exhibitors in one dynamic marketplace.

25 APRIL 2015