Travel Trade Weekly Issue 268 by Travel Trade Publications

27 DECEMBER 2014

ISSUE 268

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27 DECEMBER 2014

ISSUE 268

TIGER WOODS DESIGNS DUBAI GOLF COURSE EMAAR PROPERTIES IS REDEFINING SMART URBAN MOBILITY WITH THE FIRST PHASE OF THE DUBAI TROLLEY PROJECT, HAILED AS THE REGION’S FIRST HOP-ON HOP-OFF TRANSIT SYSTEM, DUE TO BE COMPLETED IN EARLY 2015.

06 NIKKI BEACH RESORT & SPA DUBAI TO OPEN IN 2015

12 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE CRUISING TECHNOLOGY AIRPORTS ACCOMMODATION RENDEZVOUS INTERNATIONAL AGENT CORNER TRAVEL TALK TRAVEL CHANNELS WHO’S MOVED PHOTO ALBUM NEWS & EVENTS

02 03 04 05 12 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

DUBAI TROLLEY TO BE LAUNCHED

MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS

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

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

MENA EXCHANGE RATES

18/12/2014

Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar

COUNTRY

CURRENCY 1USD=

Bahrain (BHD)

Dinar

0.37

Jordan (JOD)

Dinar

0.71

Oman (OMR)

Rial

0.39

Qatar (QAR)

Rial

3.64

Saudi Arabia (SAR) Riyal

3.75

UAE (AED)

Dirham

3.67

Algeria (DZD)

Dinar

86.13

Egypt (EGP)

Pound

7.15

Iran (IRR)

Rial

27,020.94

Iraq (IQD)

Dinar

1,165.13

Kuwait (KWD)

Dinar

0.29

Lebanon (LBP)

Pound

1,530.93

Libya (LYD)

Dinar

1.21

Morocco (MAD)

Dirham

8.94

Syria (SYP)

Pound

175.80

Tunisia (TND)

Dinar

1.86

Yemen (YER)

Rial

215.05

Dubai International

ccording to the latest traffic report issued by Dubai Airports, passenger movements in October totalled 5.9 million compared to 5.6 million recorded in the corresponding month in 2013. Yearto-date traffic rose 6.1 percent to 58.4 million travellers. The Indian subcontinent was the top market in terms of growth in overall passenger numbers, closely followed by Western Europe, Asia and Africa. Moreover, aircraft movements grew 1.6 percent year-on-year while the year-to-date figures amounted to 290,779, signalling a contraction of 4.8 percent.

PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian

Passenger traffic at Dubai International rose 5.7 percent in October, putting the airport on track to eclipse the 71 million passenger mark by year-end.

CONTRIBUTORS Dominique Christou Ana Mladenovic

As of

October Boosts Year-end Forecast for Dubai International

Private Placement of Saudi Heritage Hospitality Company

Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) is to conclude a private placement of the shares of the Saudi Heritage Hospitality Company.

amad Al Semaeel, vice president, investment and tourism development, SCTA, recently disclosed the information, adding that the deal will involve a capital of SAR255 million (USD67.94 million) and will be carried out in collaboration with Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA). Al Semaeel further stated that the private placement is set to be closed and SAMA will be notified on its results as soon as the underwriting process is completed by the subscribed entities. The company's future offering of shares for public subscription will be after completion of its incorporation and developing stages, and ensuring its feasibility.

ADFG Buys Scotland Yard Edifice Abu Dhabi-headquartered investment firm, Abu Dhabi Financial Group (ADFG) has acquired the New Scotland Yard building.

Aerial view of the site

ome to London Metropolitan Police since the 1960s, the prestigious property was purchased from the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime in London for GBP370 million (AED2.1 billion). The 55,742m² site will be redeveloped by 2017 to include 72 luxury apartments, a restaurant and expansive fitness and health facilities. Jassim Alseddiqi, CEO, ADFG, stated, “The New Scotland Yard site will be one of the most important redevelopment projects undertaken in Central London this decade, replacing the world famous headquarters with a world-class development.” 27 DECEMBER 2014

CRUISING WEEKLY NEWS

Dubai’s Cruise Appeal Promoted in China

Cruising Is Key for Oman’s Tourism

Celebrity Cruises to Homeport in Abu Dhabi

Mina Rashid Cruise Terminal in Dubai

arly December saw Dubai Cruise Tourism, part of Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM), promote the emirate’s cruise tourism appeal in China. Together with partners MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises and Royal Caribbean International, the team addressed invited audiences in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, introducing, among other things, the new UAE multientry cruise tourism visa. Hamad bin Mejrin, executive director, DTCM, commented, “Cruise tourism in China is still a relatively new industry, but it is one with huge developing potential and opportunity. We already know that Dubai is a city which Chinese travellers have fallen in love with, and we want to ensure they are also made aware of the unique attractions of cruise tourism […].”

27 DECEMBER 2014

he cruise sector has been identified as a fundamental requirement for establishing Oman as a vibrant tourism destination. This was suggested by H.E. Maitha Al Mahrooqi, undersecretary, Ministry of Tourism, Oman, during her speech at Seatrade Middle East Cruise Forum in Muscat. The ministry’s data also revealed that in 2013, 115 ships called into Oman, a figure that is expected to significantly increase over the coming three years. Meanwhile, this year cruise passenger numbers to the Sultanate rose by 18 percent year-on-year. Tine Oelmann, director of port operations, shore excursions and ground handling, TUI Cruises, explained, “In Oman, [one] can find heritage, culture and nature, highlighting the diversity of this region.”

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Celebrity Constellation cruising towards Abu Dhabi

oyal Caribbean Cruise Lines plans to deploy one of its Celebrity Cruises luxury vessels to the UAE capital on a homeport basis. Starting November 2016, the 295m long Celebrity Constellation, which boasts a capacity for 2,170 guests, will offer six luxury cruises from Abu Dhabi’s cruise terminal to five different ports of call in the Arabian Gulf and the Indian Ocean, including Dubai and Muscat, up until the end of January 2017, attracting some 15,000 guests to the UAE capital. According to H.E. Jasem Al Darmaki, acting director general, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, the landmark decision reflects a new horizon for the sector’s development in the capital.

WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY

CarTrawler and Abacus Join Forces

USD10 Million Invested in Careem

arTrawler announced a deal with Abacus International, which makes ground transportation and chauffeur-driven services available to travel agents at over 20,000 locations within the aggregated booking platform, Abacus ContentPlus, due for release in 2015. As a launch partner, CarTrawler will gain increased visibility and share of the largest business-to-business channel in the Asia Pacific region, serving a car rental market estimated to be worth USD6.8 billion this year and USD8.9 billion by 2016. CarTrawler consolidates a fragmented ground transportation landscape, making it easier for Abacus International’s clients to offer the chauffeured options favoured in some Asian markets while broadening the choice for traditional fly-drive in others.

areem, the app and web -based chauffeurdriven car booking service, has secured a USD10 million investment from Al Tayyar Travel Group. The cash infusion is to expand Careem’s business into new markets and enrich its technology and operations platform. This is the second round of investment for the technology start-up. In September 2013, STC Ventures led a USD1.7 million round to fund Careem’s expansion into Saudi Arabia. Mudassir Sheikha, cofounder, Careem, noted that the group’s strong Saudi and regional experience will help Careem deliver a reliable service and accelerate its geographic expansion to the rest of the Middle East.

JLL Launches New Tool for MENA

n response to its clients’ need for more information on major real estate markets in MENA, Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) has introduced a new web-based data comparison tool which allows both investors and occupier clients to easily compare rental, price and supply information across office, retail, residential and hotel assets in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Jeddah and Cairo. “Sale prices have generally increased by more than rentals in the residential market over the past years,” noted Craig Plumb, head of research, JLL MENA.

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Wyndham Partners with Sabre

yndham Hotel Group and Sabre announced a global strategic technology partnership which will provide cloud-based Software-asa-Service (SaaS) reservations, revenue management and enhanced security solutions to the hotelier’s properties, making it the first large global company to leverage Sabre’s SynXis Enterprise Platform. As part of this agreement, Wyndham Hotel Group expects to migrate over 4,500 of its North American properties to Sabre’s SynXis Property Manager beginning mid-2015. “Wyndham Hotel Group’s strategy is to leverage partners who deliver state-of-the-art solutions across the global travel and service industry landscape for our owners and franchisees,” said Geoff Ballotti, president, Wyndham Hotel Group.

27 DECEMBER 2014

AIRPORTS WEEKLY NEWS

CNN Traveller Café at ADIA

DWC Displays Business Aviation Facilities

The world’s first airport café from CNN was officially unveiled at Abu Dhabi International Airport (ADIA) in partnership with SSP, the hub’s food and beverage outlets operator.

27 DECEMBER 2014

The official opening of the café

NN Traveller café, situated in Terminal 3, gives visitors a comprehensive CNN experience including broadcast on a number of screens, integrated audio system for each table, visual content displayed on a media wall, as well as latest news headlines in an RSS news ticker situated above the serving counter. Mohammed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, board member, Abu Dhabi Airports, said, “This direction is in line with our continuous commitment to provide passengers with world-class services and sensational experiences each time they travel through any of our airports.”

ubai World Central (DWC) showcased world-class infrastructure and facilities that aim to meet the business needs of the wider aviation industry at the Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) exhibition, held from December 8 – 10. The airport’s participation at the event came on the back of its efforts to contribute to developing the region’s aerospace ecosystem and highlighted the latest advancements that are on the ground and ready for business within the Aviation District. In addition to new agreements with key industry stakeholders, DWC also revealed plans for new developments that will impact business aviation in the region.

WEEKLY NEWS

Tiger Woods Designs Dubai Golf Course

Golfing superstar Tiger Woods will design the new 18-hole championship golf course in Dubai to be built by DAMAC Properties and operated by The Trump Organisation.

AKOYA Oxygen

et within the 510ha master community of AKOYA Oxygen, Trump World Golf Club, Dubai will include a clubhouse, restaurant and pro shop. The course will be situated at the heart of the community, with some of the emirate's most exclusive residential developments overlooking it. Site preparation work on the Trump World Golf Club Dubai is already underway, with the course due to open by the end of 2017.

Dubai Gears Up for Its 20th Shopping Festival

ubai Festivals and Retail Establishment is in the process of finalising the programme for the 20th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). Launched in 1996, DSF has now become the longest running festival of its kind in the world. Organised annually under the theme One World, One Family, One Festival, the event has attracted 56 million visitors spending a total of AED145 billion (USD39.5 billion) between 1996 and this year. The programme, which will run between January 1 – February 1, 2015, features the participation of over 70 malls and 6,000 retail outlets.

Sharjah Determined to Upgrade Its Offerings in 2015

he Sharjah Tourism Advisory Committee, chaired by H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, director general, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), held its first meeting to discuss developments in the emirate’s tourism industry. The committee is to devise strategies to upgrade this sector and elevate Sharjah’s position on the world tourism map in 2015, when the emirate will be crowned Capital of Arab Tourism. Referring to this year’s nine percent growth in the tourism and hospitality segments, Al Midfa emphasised the need for tourism infrastructure and facilities to keep pace with the growing demand.

27 DECEMBER 2014

WEEKLY NEWS

The Dubai Mall

Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Creek

Facebook Suggests The Dubai Mall is UAE’s Most Popular Place

he Dubai Mall proved to be the UAE’s most checked-into location for the year, among those using Facebook’s particular feature. Statistics released by Facebook show that people also stayed connected in places that they originally visited to disconnect, with the Miracle Garden ranking second on the list. Atlantis The Palm came third, followed by the iconic Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina. The UAE’s top 10 also included tourist attractions as well as venues such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai World Trade Centre, Emirates Palace and Dubai Mall Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.

Dubai’s Guiding Star Breaks Ground

evelopment company, Omniyat Group, broke ground on ANWA by Omniyat, a seafront project that is aimed to become the first symbol of Dubai visible from the sea. Part of the Dubai Maritime City development that will comprise 53 mixed-use projects, hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, parks and offices, ANWA by Omniyat will be located next to the marina and the boardwalk, offering 225 residential apartments with sea views. As H.E. Khamis Juma Buamin, chairman, Dubai Maritime City, noted, ANWA by Omniyat will be a key component of the development, featuring the ideal work and living balance.

Business Aviation Booming in Morocco

his year’s Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) show, which ran at Dubai World Central, saw Emirates and Etihad Airways making their debut along with Qatar Executive and Saudia Private Aviation. As Ali Al Naqbi, chairman, Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association, pinpointed, the participation of game-changing players like Emirates and Etihad Airways is a real testament to the growing importance of the region’s private and business aviation market. Emirates Executive used the event to showcase its Airbus A319, while Qatar Executive promoted its new Bombardier Global 5000 Vision and Etihad Airways highlighted The Residence concept.

GCC Visitor Numbers to Turkey Catapult

he inaugural Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) Show Morocco is set to bring together business aviation professionals from across the region. Taking place at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport from September 1 – 2, 2015, the event is to showcase the country’s potential as it has been identified as the most active business aviation market, accounting for 50 percent of all North African aircraft movements. In addition, it will help introduce and reinforce business aviation to local officials and prospective owners and operators, and help address transport issues, especially since the government has recognised the sector’s potential and is actively investing in it.

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Groundbreaking ceremony

MEBA Attracts Major Regional Players

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urkey continues to see double-digit growth in GCC arrivals year after year, with this market currently accounting for five percent of the country’s tourism revenue. Based on data released by the Turkish Consulate General Cultural and Information Office, between January and October, visitor numbers from the GCC reached 211,241, marking a 38.9 percent year-on-year increase, spurred by a 52 percent surge in arrivals from Kuwait, followed by the UAE and Qatar. On top of this upsurge, during the 10-month period GCC investors spend USD1.26 billion on real estate projects.

27 DECEMBER 2014

WEEKLY NEWS

DUBAI TROLLEY TO BE LAUNCHED

SHARACO Welcomes New Identity

audi Hotels and Resorts Company (SHARACO) announced the launch of its new identity and the change of its trading name to DUR Hospitality Company, with a strategic transformation and expansion programme involving significant investment. Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Issa, chairman, DUR Hospitality Company, commented, “The company plans further expansion of investment in the development of hotels and luxury residential complexes, and looks forward to seeing its revenues triple by 2023.” He added that this business expansion plan, in addition to improving company performance, had created the need for a new corporate identity to match the expansionist vision.

Dur to Operate Two Marriott Hotels in Saudi Arabia

New Mega Projects in Dubai by Al Habtoor

l Habtoor Group unveiled plans for three new large-scale developments worth AED2.01 billion (USD547 million) in Dubai, which are set to create new landmarks for the emirate and play a key part in delivering continued growth for both the company and the UAE, according to Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, chairman, Al Habtoor Group. Due for completion in 2017, Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club will feature a five-star hotel, a polo club and academy and a riding school. Scheduled to be unveiled in 2016, the four-star, 334-room Metropolitan Sheikh Zayed Road will mark the historic Metropolitan Hotel’s return to Dubai, and will be located alongside the 20,947m2 Oasis Village real estate development.

ur Hospitality Company signed an agreement with Marriott International to run an 80-unit Marriott hotel and a 140-key Marriott Executive Apartments property, both currently under development, in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter. Due to launch in 2017, the projects will be operated and managed by Marriott International. This USD80 million investment is the result of the company’s business transformation programme and its new identity launched so as to expand the company’s investments and create partnerships with global hotels management franchises, said Badr bin Hmoud Al-Badr, CEO, Dur Hospitality Company.

The signing of the agreement

esigned to span 7km, Dubai Trolley will be a new electric-powered transit service dedicated to Downtown Dubai residents and visitors, allowing them a convenient and fun way to get around in what is considered the world’s most prestigious square kilometre. The first phase, which will cover 1km, will have three stops at The Dubai Mall, The Address Downtown Dubai and Vida Downtown Dubai. Initially, the trolley will carry 74 passengers in doubledecker trams, travelling at an operational speed of 16km/h.

Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Issa

Dubai Trolley

Emaar Properties is redefining smart urban mobility with the first phase of the Dubai Trolley project, hailed as the region’s first hop-on hop-off transit system, due to be completed in early 2015.

27 DECEMBER 2014

WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Jumeirah Wraps Up GCC Road Show

umeirah Group has concluded its annual regional road show, which included stops the key markets of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE. Representatives of the travel trade, tour operators and travel agencies, along with clients, were updated on the company’s recent developments and offerings across its 22 worldwide properties. Participants also heard first-hand about the group’s expansion plans that include new projects in Dubai, Jordan, Oman, Russia, China and Bali.

Kempinski Offers Smartest Guest Experience

empinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates has launched what promises to be the smartest guest experience in the region, with the rollout of the hotel’s services on any mobile device, powered by an Avaya Fabric Connect network. The initiative brings the luxury of Kempinski’s five-star guest services to more than one million mobile devices checked in by the hotel guests every year, on an interactive platform. Prasanna Rupasinghe, director of information technology, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, said, “Dubai being one of the top destinations for luxury tourism in the world, we have a mission to continue reinventing ourselves and our services.”

Jumeirah Messilah to Host HORECA Kuwait

umeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa will once again host the hospitality and food exhibition HORECA Kuwait. Hakan Petek, general manager, Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, said, “We are ready to meet the needs of the exhibitors and look forward to supporting major international exhibitions in the future.” The event will host a large number of international chefs from Kuwait and beyond, who will take part in a wide range of culinary arts competitions throughout the three-day show.

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai to Open in Autumn 2015

ikki Beach Hotels & Resorts, a division of Nikki Beach Worldwide, announced plans for a new Dubai property, in partnership with Meraas Holding. The brand’s first hotel to open in the Middle East will be a 52,000m2 resort featuring a white sandy beachfront, a total of 132 units – including rooms, suites, villas and branded residences, three restaurants, an Ultra VIP lounge, Nikki Spa by ESPA and a Tone Fitness Center. “We have been waiting for the right time, location and partners to expand our brand in Dubai and after 10 years of waiting, I am happy to announce that we have finally found [them],” commented Jack Penrod, founder, Nikki Beach Worldwide.

Nikki Beach Cabo San Lucas

27 DECEMBER 2014

ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS New Radisson Blu Cairo to Open in 2016

arlson Rezidor Hotel Group is to expand its footprint in Egypt with Radisson Blu Hotel, Cairo Nasr City, scheduled to welcome its first guests in 2016. “Egypt has recovered from the turmoil of the past years and opens new, exciting business opportunities,” pinpointed Wolfgang Neumann, president, The Rezidor Hotel Group, adding that the company is keen on supporting the country’s travel and tourism sector. Built adjacent to Genena Mall, the hotel will feature 300 units, an all-daydining restaurant, a lounge bar, fitness area, spa, rooftop swimming pool and meetings and events areas with a ballroom.

27 DECEMBER 2014

Carlson Rezidor Expands in Saudi Arabia

arlson Rezidor Hotel Group is further strengthening its portfolio in Saudi Arabia with the new Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2017. Part of a large-scale mixed-use complex, the upper-upscale property will feature 200 rooms, 1,075m2 of meetings and events space, two restaurants, a fitness area and an indoor swimming pool. “Saudi Arabia is a key focus country for us,” reiterated Wolfgang Neumann, CEO, The Rezidor Hotel Group, noting that the company signed more than 1,000 rooms in Saudi Arabia this year, and building on the Kingdom’s development, the expansion is set to continue well into the future.

Fujairah Business Centre to Feature Marriott Hotel

arriott International is to make its debut in Fujairah with a 228-unit Courtyard by Marriott-branded property. Part of Al Taif Investments’ AED400 million (USD109 million) Fujairah Business Centre, the 19-level hotel will occupy one of the development’s two towers. Spanning a total land area of over 80,000m2, the project which has just broken ground, will also include offices, a shopping mall and prime retail areas among others. As Khalid Bin Kalban, chairman, Al Taif Investment, explained, the venture, which is due for completion in three years, is set to act as a catalyst for growth by creating robust opportunities for the emirate.

WEEKLY NEWS AIR

Etihad Connects Abu Dhabi and Dallas

SAUDIA Links Qassim and Dubai

Qatar Airways Brings A380 to Bangkok

tihad Airways introduced nonstop services between Abu Dhabi and Dallas/Fort Worth, the airline’s sixth destination in the US. The launch of the new route, which comes in response to the growing demand from the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent, bolsters the UAE carrier’s US network and will help foster the economic links between Abu Dhabi and the US. Using a three-cabin ultra-long range Boeing 777-200LRm configured to carry 237 guests, Etihad Airways offers three weekly services on the route.

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n line with its endeavours to expand operations on busy routes, Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) is to commence services between Qassim and Dubai, effective from January 1, 2015. As Abdul Aziz Al Hazmi, CEO, SAUDIA, revealed, the carrier will operate 12 nonstop weekly flights, offering a total of 1,056 seats. Qassim, which will be connected with Dubai every day except Tuesdays, will become SAUDIA’s fifth destination in the Kingdom to offer direct access to the emirate, after Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Medina.

esponding to high demand for the Airbus A380 service, Qatar Airways has brought forward the arrival date of the aircraft to Bangkok to December 5. In the wake of the success of its inaugural service to London’s Heathrow Airport, followed by a second service to Paris, Qatar Airways operates its third A380 route to Thailand. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, commented that Bangkok is an ever-increasingly popular destination for holiday-makers and the national carrier is pleased to be providing additional capacity on the route. The airline's A380 superjumbo is operated in a threeclass configuration of first, business and economy cabins and includes a total of 517 seats.

Air Canada to Fly to Dubai

ir Canada is to launch three weekly services between Toronto and Dubai, effective from November 2015. As Calin Rovinescu, CEO, Air Canada, noted, the introduction of the airline’s first nonstop flight to the UAE comes at a time when air travel between North America and the Middle East is growing with more international connecting traffic at the Toronto hub. Lisa Raitt, transport minister, Canada, added, “AirCanada’s new service will play an important role in opening new markets in the Middle East and will offer more options for travellers between Canada and the region. This benefits our air sector and promotes increased trade.”

27 DECEMBER 2014

AIR WEEKLY NEWS Gulf Catching Up with Empty Leg Flights Concept

NasJet Partakes at MEBA

rivate Jet Charter (PJC) highlighted the benefits of a novel service that allows passengers to hire private jets cost effectively. Ross Kelly, managing director, Middle East, PJC, explained that the Empty Legs concept allows passengers to make use of private jet flights that, instead of returning empty to their base or to another global location, they carry passengers at discounted fares. It is estimated that the trend could reduce private jet flight costs in GCC region by 50 – 70 percent. “We have introduced this service to the region due to a strong demand from customers for one-way trips. […] We are also trying to boost empty leg flights by adding additional routes to the original return path,” he added.

iming to further strengthen its business footprint in the region, NasJet had a prominent presence at Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) show. “Given MEBA’s position as an established platform for building new partnerships within the private and business aviation sectors, we are looking forward to exploring potential collaboration opportunities with key players from both the regional and international market,” said Saad Saleh Alazwari, CEO, NasJet. He added that having a presence at the event helped NasJet reinforce and shape stronger corporate relationships with aviation partners from around the world.

Etihad Celebrates New Service from Stuttgart

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tihad Airways and partner airberlin inaugurated the German carrier’s new route between Stuttgart and Abu Dhabi. The daily flight, operated by an Airbus A320, marks airberlin’s first long-haul route from the capital of Baden-Württemberg state and also serves as the first direct connection between the city and the UAE capital. As part of a codeshare agreement, Etihad Airways has placed its code on the service which also offers hassle-free connections to a range of business and leisure destinations. As James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways, explained, the new route is part of the airline’s long-term network development strategy.

27 DECEMBER 2014

Etihad Airways to Resume Peshawar and Erbil Operations tihad Airways has relaunched flights from Abu Dhabi to Peshawar and Erbil. This month, services to both cities restarted with four flights per week and are operated using a two-class Airbus A320 aircraft configured to carry 136 passengers, with 16 seats in business class and 120 seats in economy class. The decision has been made after a careful review of operational elements and the situation in both cities in collaboration with the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority. Etihad Airways offers services to three other destinations in Pakistan including Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, as well as to Basra and Baghdad in Iraq.

WEEKLY NEWS AIR

Gulf Air Teams Up with DealBroker

ulf Air launched a new service as part of its strategic partnership with DealBroker, a travel technology company, whereby customers who book their Gulf Air flights online have access to over 10,000 tours, sightseeing and entertainment activities across the airline’s network. With DealBroker’s real time, personalised offers firmly integrated into Gulf Air’s online booking system, the airline’s passengers will receive notifications on a variety of tailored, localised offers in advance of their travel dates.

Qatar Airways Cargo Adds Destinations

atar Airways Cargo has commenced operations to Lagos, Accra and Guangzhou, with all three routes being served by an Airbus A330. Freighters to Lagos and Accra commenced on December 6. The twice weekly cargo service operates from Doha to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and then onward to Accra’s Kotoka International Airport, with a scheduled stop in Europe before returning to Doha. In addition, thrice-weekly direct freighters to Guangzhou commenced on December 3.

mirates Skywards and the Russian S7 Airlines announced a frequent flyer partnership that allows members of both carriers’ loyalty programmes to earn and redeem miles for travel across their networks. “Emirates is committed to providing its passengers with more connections and choice by not only expanding its routes but by also building strong partnerships with other carriers,” said Brian LaBelle, senior vice president, Emirates Skywards. He also expressed readiness to welcome S7 Priority members on board Emirates flights, and provide them with more rewarding access to the airline’s extensive route network.

Etihad Airways Enhances In-flight Guest Experience

Luxury hotel-style service

oyal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) started operating its new Boeing 787 Dreamliner to North American destinations after it completed the introduction of the first five 787s to the fleet, replacing the Airbus 340s on the specific routes. On December 1, RJ’s 787 landed in Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport and then took off heading to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, becoming the first Dreamliner to land at either of the two North American airports. The carrier started using the 787 to service Chicago and New York in November.

Emirates Skywards and S7 Airlines Partner to Benefit Passengers Brian LaBelle (left) and Anton Eremin, deputy CEO, S7 Group, sign the partnership agreement

RJ Serves North America with Dreamliner

tihad Airways has introduced a range of innovative new in-flight products and enhancements to its long-haul and ultra long-haul cabins, lifting the level of services in first, business, as well as economy class. The upgrade programme is subsequently being rolled out across the rest of the airline’s fleet with products varying on flight duration. Inspired by luxury hotels, the first class enhancements include a personalised welcome letter accompanied by a silver-tray reception service and followed by a unique dining experience. As part of the project, the cabin dressing has also been refreshed to include luxurious throw and cushion reflecting the colour palette of the new interiors.

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RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Dubai’s hotels welcomed more than 5.8 million tourists in the first half of the year, the highest number of visitors ever achieved in such a short period. How has performance been at your properties and what are your expectations for the year-end figures? PASCAL GAUVIN: We have had a positive year so far this year. We signed InterContinental Abu Dhabi - Grand Marina and opened Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi Downtown in the UAE this year, building on our presence in the country where we currently have 18 hotels open and eight hotels in the pipeline. The UAE currently holds around 35 percent of our development pipeline in the Middle East and we are in a good position to support the expected boom in the travel industry. In Dubai alone we now have 12 hotels open across four brands; Inter-

Q & A with Pascal Gauvin

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, MIDDLE EAST, INDIA AND AFRICA, INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS GROUP

lasting demand for more hotel rooms. We expect that the above mentioned factors will have a lasting effect in boosting tourism across Dubai and the whole of the UAE as they act as a catalyst to further develop air travel capacity and road infrastructure and develop global perceptions of the country as a compelling destination. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: In the past few years, competition in Dubai has been getting fierce. How can so many hospitality units co-exist and be profitable while at the same time providing an excellent service? PASCAL GAUVIN: We believe that there is significant room for continued growth in Dubai’s hospitality sector, both in terms of increasing the number of hotels and also diversity of brands to cater for a wider range of guests. In addition, new measures to en-

“

WE BELIEVE THAT THERE IS [...] ROOM FOR CONTINUED GROWTH IN DUBAI’S HOSPITALITY SECTOR InterContinental Dubai Marina

Continental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express. We have three hotels in the pipeline in Dubai, including InterContinental Dubai Marina which is due to open its doors in the first quarter of 2015 and will feature the Middle East’s first signature restaurant and bar by Michelin-starred chef, Jason Atherton. Another forthcoming highlight for us in the Dubai Marina area is Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina which will open in 2016.

WITH THE UAE HOLDING ROUGHLY AROUND 35 PERCENT OF INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS GROUP (IHG)’S DEVELOPMENT PIPELINE IN THE MENA REGION, PASCAL GAUVIN, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, MIDDLE EAST, INDIA AND AFRICA, IHG, ANALYSES THE COMPANY’S PLANS FOR THIS LUCRATIVE MARKET.

courage the development of three- and four-star hotels through fee exemptions and the allocation of government land for this use will ensure that Dubai’s hospitality sector continues to diversify as it expands. The continued diversification of the industry is of benefit to everyone – travellers, owners and operators, and opens Dubai’s doors even further to welcome more guests.

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are your predictions for Dubai’s future, especially in regards to its vision to host 20 million tourists by 2020? PASCAL GAUVIN: The city’s growing airport capacity, growing economy, strong MICE market and internationally renowned shopping and leisure destinations are collectively driving demand for more hotels, in addition to approaching Expo 2020, which will drive 27 DECEMBER 2014

InterContinental Dubai Marina

WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL

IHG Expands in Latin America

oliday Inn Express Hotel, Yopal has opened its doors, bringing InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG)’s portfolio in Colombia to 10 properties. Located in the northeastern region of the country, the new-built hotel features 89 rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, business centre and over 110m2 of meeting space. As Gerardo Murray, regional vice president, distribution and commercial marketing, Mexico, Latin America and Caribbean, IHG, noted, due to its recent boom in the local oil industry, Yopal has experienced a significant increase in business travel and the Holiday Inn Express brand is well-suited to cater to these visitors.

New Hotel Added to Johannesburg’s Skyline

Taj and Harley-Davidson Collaborate

WIH Welcomes Turkish Hotel

ohannesburg has welcomed the refreshed117-room Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg. The 18-month, USD56 million redevelopment of the famed Westcliff hotel included complete redecoration of all guest rooms, suites and public spaces, and the addition of five new dining venues, including two signature restaurants, lounges and a newly-built spa complex to open in January 2015. Additionally, the hotel offers 1,457m2 of event space. Sebastien Carre, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg, said, “It is such an exciting time for Joburg as a new generation discovers its charms and shapes its future. Even if you think you know the city, it is changing so fast that it is definitely worth another visit.”

arley-Davidson India and Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces announced a strategic brand alliance to offer a host of benefits to the Harley Owners Group (HOG) members in India, who can now enjoy special privileges at over 60 hotels of the chain. This also includes the brands Vivanta by Taj and The Gateway Hotels and Resorts. Deepa Misra Harris, senior vice president, global sales and marketing, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, said, “Bringing the two iconic brands together is a real win as this partnership brings great benefits and 'Ride in privileges' to the HOG members. With this association, HOG members will be able to enjoy special benefits and offers across select Taj hotels and receive a Taj Inner Circle Membership.”

arwick International Hotels (WIH) has added a new affiliate member to its worldwide collection of hotels. Set in the heart of the Turkish capital city of Ankara, Mona Hotel is a smokefree boutique property comprising 32 rooms and suites, all of them exuding elegance and art-deco style to create a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. Offering an exquisite working environment, for toplevel meetings and events, a meeting hall is also available. The first Turkish hotel to join the collection further enhances the international reputation of WIH which has now more than 55 hotel on five continents.

27 DECEMBER 2014

AGENT CORNER

Agentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Insight NAME:

Bobbi Jordan Hansen

POSITION:

Proprietor and managing director

COMPANY:

Columbus Tours

LOCATION:

Sri Lanka

WEBSITE:

www.bookingsrilanka.com

flynas Authorises Sales Agents in Egypt

Who are you? I started my career with John Keells Holdings, in their leisure sector, more than 40 years ago and subsequently built up my own company. Columbus Tours, established1991, is a destination management company with special emphasis on incentives, conferences and special interest groups of all shapes and sizes. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? The people; I have made some of the most amazing friends thanks to this industry. When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka? I would say, January to March, and July, August, November and December are the most sought-after months due to the traditional weather patterns being most favourable at the time. However, Sri Lanka is in general a year-round possibility. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? Cuba. Why should people come to you for travel advice? We listen to our clients. We personalise our service to them. It is not just selling a tour, we tailor-make their dream holiday experience and make it come true. Which is the percentage of MENA travellers your agency welcomes annually? MENA clients range around five percent of our overall incoming numbers. 27 DECEMBER 2014

lynas signed a strategic agreement authorising three agents in Egypt as an outcome of the Hajj and Umrah Exhibition, which concluded its activities in November in Cairo. Megat Ardian, chief commercial officer, flynas, announced that the Saudi carrier has appointed World Aviation Services, Deema Travel and Tourism and AlTayyar Group as authorised agents for passenger sales in Egypt. This step comes amid an increase in demand for domestic and international flights between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, and after implementing an expansion plan in the Egyptian market, which resulted in flynas being the only foreign airline to serve seven destinations in Egypt with flights to Cairo, Alexandria, Assiut, Sohag, Luxor, Sharm El Sheikh and Aswan.

TRAVEL TALK

flydubai was founded to offer passengers the choice to travel more

GHAITH AL GHAITH CEO, flydubai

“We are delighted to be presented with [the Low-Cost Carrier of the Year award at the 2014 CAPA Awards for Excellence in Aviation]. flydubai was founded to offer both business and leisure passengers the choice to travel more often from Dubai to existing destinations and discover new ones, as well as give them the ability to select the kind of journey they wanted and how to pay for it. If others are kind enough to say we have shown a degree of leadership and innovation, then we hugely appreciate the recognition.”

We aim to continually expand our market reach

GILLIAN TAYLOR Director of business development, Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC)

The success of Dubai’s airports is one of the emirate’s greatest achievements

No single full-service airline has done more than Etihad Airways

PETER HARBISON Executive chairman, CAPA Centre for Aviation

“The efficiency of the aviation industry is strangled by archaic ownership and control rules that prevent cross-border mergers and rationalisation of airline offerings. More than any other factor, this has effectively confined the industry to drastic financial underperformance. Faced with this roadblock, no single full-service airline has done more than Etihad Airways to challenge the status quo with its remarkable strategic partnership model.”

“We have 22 events already booked for 2016 that are expected to bring more than 200,000 visitors to the Sultanate in our first year alone, which in itself underscores the potential of OCEC as an international exhibition and congress venue and driver of socio-economic benefits for the country. We aim to continually expand our market reach with the support of the Ministry of Tourism and key industry partners, as we advance on our journey to capture the industry on mass and secure business right through to 2024.”

EMMA CULLEN General manager, Capital Club, Dubai

“The success of Dubai’s airports is one of the emirate’s greatest achievements and we are very proud to [have welcomed] Paul [Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports] who has played such an important role in making this success story possible. This [was] a wonderful chance for our members to learn how one of Dubai’s most successful enterprises has built its world-class reputation and to get a glimpse into its exciting plans for the future.”

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

27 DECEMBER 2014

TRAVEL CHANNELS

UAE Committed to Aviation Infrastructure Development H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, released three postal stamps to mark milestone civil aviation developments in Dubai.

“T

he emirate of Dubai has worked closely with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in a number of initiatives,” highlighted Al Maktoum, adding that Dubai has developed the aviation infrastructure to provide necessary connectivity, facilities and other related services for the benefit of the global aviation industry and the travelling public. As H.E. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, chairman, General Civil Aviation Authority, further noted, over 100 scheduled carriers operate through the UAE’s seven airports.

Ceremony at Sheikh Saeed Maktoum House

Top Destinations on the Rise Revealed

Sharjah Children Biennial in Its Fourth Edition

he Sharjah Children Biennial, held once every two years in collaboration with Sharjah Museums Department, is taking place at the Sharjah Art Museum from December 9 – January 31, 2015, and at the Children Center in Mughayder, between January 9 – February 9, 2015. The event will see 550 pieces of artwork being displayed from 11 Arab and foreign countries, created by children aged between six and 18 years. All works are revolving around the main theme Questions, which aims to stimulate children's and young people's imagination. A series of workshops targeting visitors are also planned to take place.

Bodylines Hosts Swimming Competition for Children

A Da Nang

ripAdvisor revealed the world’s top 52 spots that have seen the greatest increase in positive feedback from the website’s evergrowing community. Globally, the Vietnamese city of Da Nang stole the spotlight, which has, over the years, become a beacon for foodies who flock there to indulge in local cuisine. It was followed by followed by Sihanoukville, Cambodia and Limassol, Cyprus. From MENA, the Egyptian resort of Hurghada also earned a place in the top 10, ranking seventh. “The TripAdvisor community has helped surface some unheralded destinations across the globe that are receiving rave reviews from travellers worldwide,” commented Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer, TripAdvisor.

27 DECEMBER 2014

s part of its yearly programme, Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club hosted a swimming competition at Oryx Rotana, Doha, to enable its enrolled students to showcase their talent. The event attracted a crowd of approximately 200 people including participants and parents. Categories for the event consisted of different types of strokes and relay, and were divided according to age groups ranging from nine to 16 years old. Wilson Rayan, director of recreation, Oryx Rotana, noted, “We, at Bodylines, are delighted to witness so many enthusiastic young swimmers to go after the medal and recognition and show their skills among others.”

Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club’s swimming competition

WHO’S MOVED

DIMITRIOS KARAGKIOULES

HAITHAM MISTO

Dimitrios Karagkioules has moved to the position of Etihad Airways’ general manager for Thailand, a post where he will have significant responsibility for the performance of the Bangkok route, the busiest in the airline's global network, and for the carrier’s second Thai gateway, Phuket. He will report to Craig Thomas, Etihad Airways' vice president for Asia Pacific North and the Indian subcontinent. With more than 20 years of airline experience, Karagkioules takes up the Bangkok-based role after five years in Athens as Etihad Airways' general manager for Greece. Prior to joining the UAE carrier, he held a number of Athensbased sales and marketing management roles at Continental Airlines and Delta Airlines.

DAVID MANSFIELD

Haitham Misto has been appointed acting president and CEO for Royal Jordanian Airlines. He had served as head of flight operations at the airline since December 2013, after originally joining Royal Jordanian Airlines as a pilot back in 1983. Misto holds a master’s degree in aviation management from Maastricht University in the Netherlands.

KARIN SHEPPARD Misto had joined Royal Jordanian Airlines in 1983 as a pilot

David Mansfield has taken over the role of general manager at Grand Hyatt Dubai and area director for Hyatt hotels in Dubai. Since 2011, he has held the position of general manager at Grand Hyatt Mumbai and area director for Mumbai, Pune and Goa, overseeing the strategic and financial performance of the hotel and providing support and strategic oversight to the Park Hyatt, Hyatt Regency and Hyatt brands in West India. At a crucial time of transformation for Hyatt’s expansion in Dubai where the company is headed towards exciting challenges in the dynamic market, Mansfield will be managing its portfolio in the emirate including Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Park Hyatt, Hyatt Place and the upcoming Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights scheduled to open in early 2015.

Karin Sheppard has taken up the post of chief operating officer for Australasia, Japan, Korea and Asia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) franchising, at InterContinental Hotels Group. In her new role, she will oversee the operations and performance of over 100 hotels in more than 10 countries across brands, ranging from the luxury InterContinental Hotels & Resorts to the midscale Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express. Sheppard will also be responsible for the regional operations teams based in Sydney and Tokyo, as well as the AMEA franchise operations team. In her 13 years with IHG, Sheppard has held various senior commercial roles across Australasia, Europe and the Middle East and played a critical role in establishing the AMEA franchise operations.

27 DECEMBER 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...

The Ajman Palace lights up the tallest Christman tree in the Northern Emirates, UAE

27 DECEMBER 2014

Qatar Airways’ new branding graces FC Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium

Gulf Air celebrated Bahraini Women’s Day

Etihad Airways scoops the World’s Leading Airline title at the World Travel Awards

Christmas at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche

Tilal Liwa Hotel, UAE supports Walk 2014

NEWS & EVENTS Fitur to Organise Advisory Service

itur Know-How & Export, one of the specialised sections at Fitur, will hold its third edition as part of the show’s 34th staging in Madrid from January 28 – February 1, 2015. The section is to maintain its ongoing commitment to the internationalisation of Spanish companies linked to the tourism industry and will boast a large exhibition space where enterprises can access an advisory service. During the event’s first day, a paper will be given out on what should be taken into account for different organisations to achieve a successful internationalisation process.

EVENTS HORECA KUWAIT Kuwait City, Kuwait January 19 – 21, 2015 www.horeca-kuwait.com A wide-ranging event covering the hospitality , catering and food industry sectors in Kuwait and the region.

Asia Drives Global Tourism

sia continues to be a major force in international tourism, as revealed by the ITB World Travel Trends Report. According to figures, during the first eight months of this year the number of outbound trips from Asia rose by eight percent, which was double the global growth rate. In 2015, Asian citizens are predicted to undertake above-average number of trips and, with growth still at eight percent, will easily overtake other nations in the outbound travel market.

OCEC Showcased at EIBTM

man Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) demonstrated its capability to host large-scale global events at the European Incentive Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (EIBTM) held in Barcelona, Spain. In collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, the OCEC team highlighted the versatile appeal of the Sultanate and the centre to representatives from the educational, healthcare, commerce, industry, agriculture and financial sectors.

EAST MEDITERRANEAN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM AND TRAVEL EXHIBITION (EMITT) Istanbul, Turkey January 22 – 25, 2015 www.emittistanbul.com The 18th edition of EMITT will assign an entire hall to health care, aesthetics, thermal and spa tourism.

SAUDI RAIL EXHIBITION Riyadh, Saudi Arabia January 25 – 28, 2015 www.saudirail-expo.com Organised by Riyadh Exhibitions Company, the event showcases equipment, technologies and services from the biggest Saudi, regional and international industry players.

FITUR Madrid, Spain January 28 – February 1, 2015 www.ifema.es A global meeting point for tourism professionals for inbound and outbound Ibero-American markets.

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