28 FEBRUARY 2015
ISSUE 277
OVER 2,100 TOURISM JOBS OPEN UP IN SAUDI ARABIA QATAR TOURISM AUTHORITY HAS SIGNED A DEAL WITH OLERY, AN ONLINE TRAVEL DATA PROVIDER, TO GET REAL-TIME INFORMATION ON THE QUALITY OF THE SERVICES AND OPERATIONS OF QATAR’S HOTELS.
06 ROOMSXML.COM ADDS GAME-CHANGING FEATURE
07 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE TECHNOLOGY CRUISING ACCOMMODATION AIR INTERNATIONAL RENDEZVOUS AGENT CORNER TRAVEL TALK TRAVEL CHANNELS WHO’S MOVED PHOTO ALBUM NEWS & EVENTS
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QTA MONITORS NATIONAL HOTEL PERFORMANCE
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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli
Etihad Airways: Best-ever Operational Performance Etihad Airways carried a record number of passengers and cargo in 2014, marking its strongest operational performance to date.
SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba CONTRIBUTORS Dominique Christou Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB DEVELOPER / IT Soteris Constantinou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA EXCHANGE RATES As of
25/2/2015
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lmost 14.8 million travellers flew with the UAE national carrier, up 23 percent year-on-year, with the growth in demand outstripping capacity increase. Together with its equity partners, the airline accounted for 82 percent of passenger traffic at Abu Dhabi International Airport. Etihad Airways introduced 10 additional destinations to its global route network and also expanded its codeshare and equity agreements with these partnerships delivering over 3.5 million passengers onto Etihad Airways flights. Cargo volume reached 568,648 tonnes, a boost of 17 percent year-on-year.
Jet Airways Returns to Profit Jet Airways achieved its first profit in seven quarters with key operating parameters showing strong progress.
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COUNTRY
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n the third quarter of its fiscal year, that ended on December 31, 2014, the Indian carrier’s business improved 101 percent and profit reached USD500,000, while total revenue was up nine percent to USD875 million. Notably, the Etihad Airways Partners member airline witnessed a 93 percent surge in codeshare traffic, to over 314,000 passengers. Commenting on the first profitable quarter since the company’s turnaround plan in 2012, Cramer Ball, CEO, Jet Airways, said, “While the global and local operating conditions have eased, we only expect to see the real impact of the lower fuel price in the next quarter.”
Jet Airways in-flight entertainment
Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar
28 FEBRUARY 2015
TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS
Sabre to Showcase Innovative Solutions
Sabre Travel Network Middle East (STNME) is to launch the Innovation Product Road Show in Bahrain, displaying its latest technologies.
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he key highlight of the event will be Sabre’s Red App Center, the online travel app marketplace that connects buyers, including travel agencies, travel management companies and leisure operators with third-party developers. Daniel Naoumovitch, CEO, STNME, said, “We are proud to launch the world’s first business-to-business travel app marketplace, which has become a destination for developers to generate fresh ideas and develop apps that make travel buying easier, more personalised and dynamic.” Since its global launch in 2012, Sabre Red App Centre has exceeded 1.2 million downloads by travel agencies worldwide.
28 FEBRUARY 2015
Travelport Renews Deal with Dutch Partner
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ravelport and Schiphol Travel International, a travel management company based in the Netherlands and the UK which specialises in serving medium and large multinational companies, have reinstated their mutual commitment. The two businesses have been cooperating since 2000, and their contract renewal will continue to provide Schiphol Travel International access to Travelport’s content inventory, including fares and ancillaries from airlines and hotels worldwide as well as its merchandising and desktop technology. Marco van Ieperen, general manager, Benelux, Travelport, commented, “We look forward to continue working together [with Schiphol Travel International] over the coming years, by supporting their evolving needs as a modern travel management company.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
Abu Dhabi Pushes for Italian Tourism
Abu Dhabi is on a major drive to boost inbound tourism from Italy following the emirate’s first Italian travel trade summit.
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Italian delegation in Abu Dhabi
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bu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority partnered with various stakeholders to host chairmen, CEOs, general managers and directors of sales from 14 leading Italian tour operators, destination management companies and retail travel groups to show them how much more there is to see and do in the emirate. At the Focus Abu Dhabi summit, Italian operators discussed the future and challenges of the sector and identified business and investment opportunities to extend Abu Dhabi’s presence in their brochures, as well as ways to boost arrivals and extend stays in the destination to five nights.
QTA Marks National Sports Day
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atar Tourism Authority (QTA) celebrated this year’s Qatar National Sports Day with a walkathon. The programme, organised in cooperation with the United Development Company, allowed participants, many of whom work at hotel establishments and tourism organisations, to enjoy a tour of The PearlQatar, while it also shed light on the importance of sports and physical activity in the daily life. “The event is part of QTA’s efforts to engage with the public and the hotels sector, boost the sports tourism industry, in cooperation with private and public sectors, and promote Qatar as a world tourism destination capable of attracting tourists […],” commented Saif al Kuwari, director of public relations and communications, QTA.
28 FEBRUARY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS
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Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Creek
Dubai Taxi Drivers to Improve English Skills
n line with its keen attention to refine the skills of taxi drivers, Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC), part of the emirate’s Roads and Transport Authority, has recently conducted a free English language course for cab drivers, in cooperation with the Danube Educational Institute. “This course comes as part of the Speak Fluently initiative launched by DTC’s human resources department in order to hone English language skills of our taxi drivers and enhance DTC’s corporate profile among customers and the public in general. The initiative will contribute positively to providing distinguished services to customers and realising DTC’s vision of Pioneers in Passenger Transport Services,” commented Ahmed Khalfan Al Suwaidi, CEO, DTC.
28 FEBRUARY 2015
HMH CEO Chairs Resort Conference
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aurent Voivenel, CEO, Hospitality Management Holdings (HMH), opened the 2nd Annual Resort Development & Hospitality Conference in Dubai. Voivenel presided over the various sessions of the two-day event and also participated in a panel discussion on Enhancing the Owner-Operator Relationship in Building an Empire of Hospitality Properties. “The six key cities in the [MENA] region; Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Muscat and Riyadh represent over 124,000 hotel rooms in the development pipeline with most of this new supply only added in recent years,” Voivenel said, noting that in Qatar 45,000 new rooms are required to meet FIFA World Cup demand while 160,000 new rooms are expected by 2020.
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WEEKLY NEWS QTA Highlights Local Traditions and Customs
Over 2,100 Tourism Jobs Open Up in Saudi Arabia
QTA’s pavilion
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atar Tourism Authority (QTA), alongside the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage, Qatar Museum Authority and the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy 2022, represented the country at the fifth edition of the Gulf Heritage Village Festival in Kuwait. “Through its participation in this event, QTA also seeks to stress the importance of formulating a unified tourism strategy for the GCC countries, as well as activating initiatives aimed at deepening the cooperation among GCC countries in tourism-related activities,” said Rashed Al Qurese, chief marketing and promotions officer, QTA.
audi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA) has recently announced more than 2,100 new positions for Saudi citizens in the country’s hospitality sector. During the first half of February, recruitment interviews were held by the National Tourism Human Resources Development Centre (Takamul) throughout Saudi Arabia, in cooperation with the Human Resource Development Fund and the National System for Joint Training. Nasir bin Abdul Aziz Al Nashmi, acting director general, Takamul, said that the recruitment interviews confirmed SCTA’s keenness to promote service quality levels in the hospitality sector through providing it with national qualified cadres.
TravelClick: What Really Matters on TripAdvisor
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ravelClick released a study that looks at TripAdvisor as a key marketing and reputation channel for hoteliers, with more than 170 million reviews and opinions of travel-related businesses or travellers from across the world. Besides positive reviews, the document also showed that the number of comments and the number of stars of a property also have an impact on the hotel’s revenue per transaction. However, the ranking of an establishment does not lead to more income, most likely due to the fact that TripAdvisor does not disclose its algorithm so the ranking system is not transparent. The study looked at 178 hotels from across the US, and the data was collected from two months of revenue.
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28 FEBRUARY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS roomsXML.com Adds Industry Game-changing Feature
QTA Concludes Second Desert Caravan Challenge
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atar Tourism Authority (QTA) wrapped up its second Desert Caravan Challenge. Two teams, each consisting of 15 adventure lovers, participated in the 12km camel-riding endurance challenge, which kicked off from the historical Bait Al Imam, winding through the scenic desert sand along the western quarter of Qatar. “We are always seeking to diversify the products offered by the tourism sector by encouraging the launch of new ones every now and then that entice to tourists and highlight the rich Qatari heritage, as well as the importance of preserving Qatar’s archaeological wealth,” said H.E. Issa Bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi, chairman, QTA.
Desert Caravan Challenge 2015
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ccommodation specialist for the travel trade industry, roomsXML. com has introduced yet another unique feature that is set to revolutionise the way professionals manage bookings. The innovative function, the result of thousands of dollars and man-hours invested in product development, ensures a more convenient booking experience by displaying the room types exactly as per the hotel’s very own Prakash Bang room names, alleviating the confusion associated with the normally used simplified names, thus saving time and keeping customers satisfied. “At roomsXML.com, innovation is the key differentiator. That is what keeps us leading the pack. Till date we have introduced nine specific features that were industry firsts; and many of them still are,” noted Prakash Bang, managing director, roomsXML. com, adding that to date, over 3,900 of the world’s most popular hotels, including many from the MENA region, have been added.
USD55 Million Mixed-use Project Introduced in Morocco
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ASWEEK Real Estate Marketing and Development is to launch a USD55 million mixed-use project, comprising health, residential, retail and tourism zones, in Agadir. Through the development, the real estate company aims to further strengthen the ties between Morocco and the UAE, while also encouraging more investment, Massod Al Awar, CEO, TASWEEK Real Estate Marketing and Development, explained. The project follows the successful launch of a 160-bed private hospital in the Marrakesh Healthcare City.
Masood Al Awar
28 FEBRUARY 2015
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WEEKLY NEWS CRUISING
Cunard Unveils Digital Animated Timeline
Depiction of Britannia on maiden voyage
Celebrating 175 years of ocean travel, Cunard Line has unveiled a brand new two-minute animated timeline, giving viewers an insight into some of the most iconic moments in the cruise line’s illustrious history.
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he animation moves through the decades, taking the viewer on a journey through some of the cruise line’s most significant moments, beginning in 1840 with Britannia, one of the company’s first ships, making its maiden transatlantic voyage to Nova Scotia. Simon Attwater, group creative director, DigitasLBi, the technology agency that created the film, said, “Most brands do not have the luxury of an illustrious story that has literally changed history. Consequently many attempt to make one up. However, Cunard is different.”
Holland America Line’s ms Koningsdam Heads to Europe
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n summer 2016, Holland America Line’s newest ship, ms Koningsdam will debut with a series of Northern European and Baltic cruises as part of the company’s robust European season that will feature seven ships. Following seven- and 12-day premiere sailings from February to April in the Mediterranean, the ship will reposition from Civitavecchia, Rome, to its summer homeport of Amsterdam to offer roundtrips to Norway, the British Isles, the Baltics and Iceland. “For the first summer sailing season of our beautiful new ship ms Koningsdam, we have crafted some incredible itineraries to Europe’s most beautiful ports,” enthused Orlando Ashford, president, Holland America Line, disclosing that the response for the premiere voyages was overwhelmingly positive.
Maltese Cruise Tourism Gains Momentum
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total of 100 cruise liners called in Malta in the fourth quarter of 2014, bringing passenger numbers to 153,251, up 27 percent over the corresponding period in 2013. Based on data released by the country’s National Statistics Office, transit passengers accounted for the vast majority of the total traffic. Around 524 holiday-makers visited Gozo, and 3,541 travellers spent at least one night onboard their berthed cruise liner. Visitor numbers from European Union member states represented 80.7 percent of the total, with the main markets being Germany, Italy and France. All in all, cruise passenger numbers for 2014 reached 471,554, an increase of 9.3 percent over 2013.
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28 FEBRUARY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS
QTA MONITORS NATIONAL HOTEL PERFORMANCE Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) has signed a deal with Olery, an online hotel and travel data provider, to get immediate and real-time information and reports on the quality of the services and operations of Qatar’s hotels.
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TA will benefit from the Olery destination system, which draws on traveller and customer opinions to monitor and analyse review sites across the world, providing an insight into customer experience. Examination of the data can give an overview of the destination’s hospitality industry and compare its quality to other cities around the world or regionally. “This system [will allow] us to reallocate our resources to focus effectively on those issues which may be limiting our industry,” said Hassan Al Ibrahim, chief tourism development officer, QTA.
28 FEBRUARY 2015
The signing of the deal
BAC FM Attains Safety Membership Certificate
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AC FM, the fa cility ma na g e ment arm of Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) announced its affiliation with the British Safety Council. Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, chairman, BAC FM, was presented with the official membership certificate from the British health, safety and environmental (HSE) organisation. “HSE matters are a top priority in our industry and form a significant component of our day-to-day operations. […] Membership to the British Safety Council is a further step in strengthening our HSE processes and enables us to benchmark our safety performance against global standards and practices,” commented Ather Ahmed Osmani, manager, quality, health, safety and environment, BAC FM.
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WEEKLY NEWS
IATA Introduces Advanced Master’s Degree
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he International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched an advanced aviation training programme in partnership with École Nationale de l’Aviation Civile in Toulouse, France. Through the IATA Training and Development Institute, experts from across several key areas of the business will be teaching courses such as aviation fuel management, airline business foundations, safety management systems, crisis management and much more. According to Tony Tyler, director general, IATA, the initiative will help build a pool of qualified and competent aviation professionals. Meanwhile, IATA also welcomed the recommendation of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Second High Level Safety Conference to move towards the adoption of a performancebased standard for global tracking of commercial aircraft, supported by a multinational evaluation exercise.
Regional Tourism Ministers Remain Bullish
Al Ain Zoo Proves Devotion to Wildlife
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he MENA region’s tourism sector has been largely able to adapt and recover in recent times and even bounce back over the past years. Against this backdrop, tourism ministers, Spanish authorities and private sector representatives gathered together at the third Ministerial Round Table on Tourism Development in the MENA region to discuss future tourism prospects. Participating tourism ministers pointed precisely to the critical contribution of political stability for tourism to prosper and drive socio-economic progress, and highlighted the need for political will to support tourism, consolidation of democracy, an active civil society, as well as the benefits of trans-border cooperation in MENA.
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l Ain Zoo’s veterinary team recently came to the rescue of a distraught female giraffe that was suffering from a problematic labour with a stillborn calf. Muna Al Dhaheri, chief, conservation and education, Al Ain Zoo, said, “Al Ain Zoo has established an integrated clinical service for wildlife conservation in which a team of specialists provide first-rate care and expert medical management for an animal’s medical case in zoos anywhere in the region, with the full support of our state-ofthe-art veterinary laboratory.”
28 FEBRUARY 2015
ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS
New Seaside Venue at Almouj Marina Almouj Marina has launched a new 372m2 facility capable of hosting events for up to 65 seated guests. The new lounge at the private yachting hub is suspended seaside off the main facility, offering a unique atmosphere.
A Almouj Marina’s new venue
s Khalil AbuJaber, marina manager, Almouj Marina, noted, the opening seeks to harness the growing demand for event space whilst offering something new, exclusive and stylish. “Our vibrant facility combines the picturesque view of Oman’s pristine waters with a multipurpose option that can cater to individually tailored events; however, as a venue within an integrated tourism complex, our destination is one filled with opportunities that only complement our tranquillity and add to our appeal,” he added.
Meliá Brings New Brand to the Region
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eliá Hotels International is to debut its Innside brand in the Middle East. The Spanish hotel company has chosen Dubai to introduce the product, which has grown its presence from eight hotels in 2008 to 36 properties open or in the process of launching. Located in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers complex, the 125-key Innside Dubai is scheduled to welcome its first guests in 2016, and will bring the operator’s UAE portfolio to three projects. The company is also strengthening its presence in North Africa with the 87-bungalow Sol House Taghazout in Morocco due to open later this year.
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ccor launched Aparthotel Adagio Premium Dubai Al Barsha, the brand’s first project in the UAE and second in the world, after Doha. Located in close proximity to Novotel Dubai Al Barsha, the property features 198 upmarket serviced apartments across 41 floors, offering upscale accommodation with an array of amenities. “Al Barsha has grown popular with residents and visitors alike, and lends itself to the longer-term guest, that is why we will guarantee Aparthotel Adagio Premium Dubai Al Barsha offers an excellent hotel stay, with the comfort and privacy of home,” enthused Philippe Montaubin, general manager, Aparthotel Adagio Premium Dubai Al Barsha.
28 FEBRUARY 2015
Aparthotel Adagio Premium Dubai Al Barsha
Aparthotel Adagio Premium Debuts in the UAE
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Economy Sleeper Class Introduced by Air Astana
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ir Astana has launched its new Economy Sleeper class on international flights connecting Kazakhstan’s capital with London and Frankfurt, with plans to also add it on its Astana – Paris route on March 29. The new service offers passengers more personal space and privacy in the dedicated and partitioned section in front of the economy class cabin, transforming the row of seats with a mattress layer, a duvet and pillow set. Additional perks include KCTV, Air Astana’s in-flight entertainment iPad, access to the carrier’s dedicated business lounge at Astana International Airport, priority check in, boarding and disembarkation, fully changeable and refundable tickets, as well as business class amenity kits.
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RJ Holds Event with NASA Expert
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oyal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) hosted a seminar by Ayman Qaddumi, former senior avionics system engineer, NASA, on the key principles of programme and project success. Following an 18-year career at the aeronautics agency, Qaddumi has established a company, JACQ Tech, to help create innovative technical solutions. Having himself attended the presentation, Haitham Misto, CEO, RJ, confirmed that the carrier works on improving the quality of all its procedures and services by using scientific and practical methods in line with the best international practices.
Air Cargo Shows Positive Image in 2014
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he International Air Transport Association (IATA) released air cargo data for 2014 which shows a 4.5 percent demand growth compared to 2013. The air freight market expansion gathered momentum as 2014 progressed and the year finished on a positive note, with growth in December accelerating 4.9 percent year-on-year. The vast majority of the rise was witnessed in the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions, which respectively contributed 46 percent and 29 percent of the expansion in freight tonne kilometres. “Recent concerns over the health of the global economy and a corresponding fall in business confidence have not yet impacted air cargo,” said Tony Tyler, director general, IATA.
Turkish Airlines Grows Premium Business from GCC
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urkish Airlines witnessed double-digit increase in demand for its premium cabins across the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait, whereas performance from the three countries jumped 6.44 percent. Demand for the carrier’s business and premium economy cabin class rose 17.45 percent in 2014, while international-to-international transfer figures were up 9.05 percent compared to 2013. As Adem Ceylan, vice president, marketing and sales, Middle East and Cyprus, Turkish Airlines, explained, the GCC market continued to deliver strong results in line with the carrier’s international traffic growth that reached 54.7 million passengers, up 13.3 percent.
28 FEBRUARY 2015
AIR WEEKLY NEWS Qatar Airways Offers New Films
ICAO Supports New Flight Tracking Standard
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n celebration of The Oscars which took place on February 22, Qatar Airways refreshed its in-flight entertainment offerings to include this year’s nominees; Gone Girl, Whiplash, Nightcrawler, Big Hero 6 and The Boxtrolls. Passengers can also enjoy previous candidates and winners such as One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Rocky, Annie Hall, The Departed, The Artist and The King’s Speech. The selection of Bollywood blockbusters has also been renewed, as well as that of Arabic content with episodes of the Bedouin drama series Ekhwat Al Damm and the famous comedy show, Wifi.
28 FEBRUARY 2015
ember states of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) endorsed the adoption of a new 15-minute aircraft tracking standard during this year’s High Level Safety Conference. The recommended standard is performance-based and not prescriptive, meaning that global airlines would be benefit from it using the available and planned technologies and procedures they deem suitable. According to Olumuyiwpa Benard Aliu, council president, ICAO, the system will be an important first step in providing a foundation for global flight tracking and the future implementation of the more comprehensive ICAO Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System.
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
Tourism Impact on Indiana’s Economy Grows
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new economic impact report released by the Indiana Office of Tourism Development (IOTD) documents the growing effect tourism has on the US state’s economy. The study shows that travel, tourism and hospitality continue to be the sixth largest industry in the destination, supporting over 187,000 jobs and contributing USD10.3 billion in revenue to local economy. According to the survey, total industry-related spending in 2013 was USD10.3 billion, an increase of USD200 million over 2012.
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Minor International Expands in Europe and South America
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inor International has acquired a hotel portfolio of over 1,600 keys consisting of two properties in Brazil, which include a hotel operating platform and the intellectual property rights of the Tivoli Hotels & Resorts brand in Brazil, as well as four projects in Portugal. The acquisitions in the European country include Tivoli Lisboa, Tivoli Marina Vilamoura, Tivoli Marina Portimao and Tivoli Carvoeiro. Commenting on the EUR168 million (USD190 million) investment, William Heinecke, group CEO, Minor International, noted that over the past years, the focus has been in expansion in Asia, Australia, the Middle East and Africa as the company is now looking beyond for compelling opportunities to expand its global coverage.
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onal nati ia’s r e t r In f As Mino o one o urant s l t is a st res a h over t e larg nies wi ts? a le p t u com 700 o 1,
Indiana
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Holiday Inn Express Debuts in Hyderabad
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hyderabad Gachibowli rendering
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has opened its first Holiday Inn Expressbranded property in Hyderabad, India. Located in the city’s financial district, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hyderabad Gachibowli features 232 units, including 39 suites, an all-day dining restaurant, lounge bar, self-service business centre, three meeting rooms and fitness centre. Commenting on the launch of the third Holiday Inn Express hotel in the country, Shantha de Silva, head of southwest Asia, IHG, said, “[…] It is the perfect hotel brand for busy travellers on the go, whether they are travelling for business or leisure. With the added option of its contemporary and efficient suites, this hotel is also a great option for travellers staying for extended periods.”
28 FEBRUARY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
IHG to Grow Thai Presence
Pattaya
dusitD2 Residence Yangon rendering
dusitD2 Residence Yangon Announced
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usit International has penned a deal with Myanmar JP Asset for its first-ever dusitD2 project in Myanmar, dusitD2 Residence Yangon, slated for a 2017 opening. The property will offer 300 units, a specialty dining outlet, bar, business lounge and recreational facilities including a gym and swimming pool. Masami Hatae, CEO, Myanmar JP Asset, commented, “The dusitD2 in Yangon will be the first property in the city to combine the best of warm Asian hospitality and cutting-edge design.” “With the growth of Myanmar’s tourism industry, we truly look forward to showcasing Dusit’s world-renowned hospitality in this charming city,” added Ryan Chen, director of hotel business development, Dusit International.
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) signed a management agreement with Nova Park to develop a 240room Holiday Inn Express in one of Thailand’s most popular beachside cities, Pattaya. Slated to open by 2017, Holiday Inn Express Pattaya Central will offer comfort and convenience close to the city’s beachfront, and guests will be able to enjoy the lounge by the rooftop swimming pool and a fitness centre. Leanne Harwood, vice president, operations, southeast Asia, IHG, said, “With tourism growing and the development of the upcoming Eastern Seaboard industrial hub expected to draw more business visitors to the city, we will be in a good position to cater to the growing number of guests coming to the area when the hotel opens in 2017.”
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he Ritz-Carlton, Bali welcomed its first guests amidst the dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches of southern Bali. Located in Sawangan, Nusa Dua, the resort offers 313 rooms, including 34 cliff-top and ocean-view villas, in addition to the 180-degree unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean. Guests are provided with access to the beach via a 70m high glass elevator. Other facilities include six food and beverage outlets, a kids’ club, spa and an exclusive lounge for privileged guests. Finally, a chapel is available for bespoke weddings.
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The Ritz-Carlton, Bali
The Ritz-Carlton, Bali Opens for Business
28 FEBRUARY 2015
RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How has business been at your hotel? HAYTHAM OMAR: Our property is currently taking steps to contribute towards the development and promising future of Ras Al Khaimah, preparing itself to meet the continuous demand for high calibre accommodation with distinctive guest experiences, providing global travellers and the local community with leisure and business occasions. The main strategy is to ensure we surpass our guests’ expectations by offering them nothing but premium hospitality and luxury services. Rixos Bab Al Bahr is planning to continue with this very guest-oriented and service-focussed strategy. With this specific property, the all-inclusive concept is our main unique selling point and definitely unique to the region. We are confident about this concept introducing a new experience to our guests and fulfilling the true relaxation holiday facilities. From check-in to check-out the only thing you will need is your room key, avoiding the hustle of carrying your wallet on you within the resort. [...] The property has managed to establish a good reputation in the hospitality field just in a year after it opened its doors in February 2014. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Over the past years, the emirate’s room stock has risen sharply. How do you ensure steady occupancy levels and high rates amid the rising competition? HAYTHAM OMAR: Rixos Bab Al Bahr has been the first example of the all-inclusive concept in the region offering a 24-hour food and beverage service to its guests with various dining options. The property proudly presents an assortment of 14 restaurants and bars of true gastronomic experiences from all around the world that are all included in the unique all inclusive concept of the hotel. The essence of traditional Turkish hospitality allows guest to savour the delicacies of Turkish and Lebanese cuisine at Lalezar in an old-fashioned Turkish grandeur that creates an authentic ambiance. Also serving exceptional Turkish dishes along with a lavish spread of international buffet is 28 FEBRUARY 2015
Q & A with Haytham Omar GENERAL MANAGER, RIXOS BAB AL BAHR
Seven Heights. The hotel’s food and beverage offerings extend to an array of other specialty restaurants such as the Aja restaurant which allows guests to enjoy oriental flavours from China, Japan and Thailand; L’olivo Restaurant that serves authentic Italian dishes promoting a sharing experience; Fish Bone, a mouth-watering seafood restaurant and Meat Point, a true South American Grill venue serving premium meat cuts. For guests who are looking for small and tasty bites, Toast ’n Burger prides itself on quality and value, offering a combination of taste and variety. Rixos Bab Al Bahr includes unlimited innovative dining and accommodates the Turkish hospitality philosophy very aptly extending attention and services beyond imagination. [...] TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Please tell us about your plans for this year.
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FROM CHECK-IN TO CHECK-OUT THE ONLY THING YOU WILL NEED IS YOUR ROOM KEY OVER THE PAST YEARS, ARRIVALS TO RAS AL KHAIMAH HAVE CONTINUED TO RISE, REACHING 1,470,000 HOTEL GUESTS IN THE FIRST THREE QUARTERS OF 2014 AND ACCORDING TO HAYTHAM OMAR, GENERAL MANAGER, RIXOS BAB AL BAHR, THE EMIRATE IS ON THE RIGHT TRACK TO REACH NEW HEIGHTS.
Rixos Bab Al Bahr
What kind of new developments or programmes can guests and/or travel agents expect in the coming months? HAYTHAM OMAR: Our top market guests come from the CIS federations, Germany, the UK and the UAE. Rixos Bab Al Bahr is the first Rixos Hotels property opened in Ras Al Khaimah. The exponential increase of tourism over the years proved to us that the emirate is ready for more expansion and growth. Being the pioneers of the all-inclusive concept in the region is giving us that competitive edge in the market. Further to that, we have new opportunities coming our way which are in the pipeline within the UAE. Our property’s expansion will include another all-day dining restaurant and a new adult-only outdoor swimming pool.
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
Langham Launches New Brand
Cordis Nusa Dua, Bali rendering
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angham Hospitality Group is introducing a new upscale global hotel brand, Cordis Hotels and Resorts. According to Robert Warman, group CEO, Langham Hospitality Group, the product will be developed through a combination of new-built and conversion projects in key cities in Asia and North America, with the first hotel expected to fly the Cordis flag in Hong Kong, due to open in May. Cordis has already signed management agreements and letters of intent to open eight hotels in seven cities within the next three years. Apart from the Hong Kong property, the portfolio will include five projects in China, and one each in Bali and Colombo. Other cities targeted for the future include Dubai, London, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Orlando, San Francisco, Singapore and Bangkok.
Carlson Rezidor to Open Property in Chad
AVANI Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa
AVANI Enters the Seychelles
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VANI Hotels & Resorts has opened AVANI Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa, the company’s first property in the Indian Ocean destination, following a USD14 million refurbishment. Each of the 124 guest rooms and suites feature a balcony or terrace with garden, pool or ocean views, and essential comforts inside. The hotel boasts two restaurants accompanied by pool and shisha bars, as well as private dining, in addition to the AVANISPA. Dillip Rajakarier, CEO, Minor Hotel Group, commented, “We are very happy to add the Seychelles to the growing list of countries our AVANI brand is present in, which is now 10 with a total of 13 properties.”
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arlson Rezidor Hotel Group is further expanding its network in Africa by adding a new destination to its portfolio, Chad, the fifth largest country on the continent. Radisson Blu Hotel N’Djamena will open in the capital city in the second quarter of the year and will feature 175 guest rooms, a lobby bar, two restaurants and more than 1,300m2 of meeting space. In addition, the property will have three amphitheatres, assembly hall, health club, outdoor pool, tennis courts and large parking facilities. “We are delighted to arrive in Chad. Africa is our most important development market […],” said Wolfgang Neumann, president, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. 28 FEBRUARY 2015
AGENT CORNER
Agent’s Insight NAME:
Zameer Seahabdeen
POSITION:
Assistant manager
COMPANY:
Al Mulla Travel Bureau
LOCATION:
Kuwait
WEBSITE:
www.almullatravel.com
Who are you? I am Zameer Seahabdeen, assistant manager of product and business development at Al Mulla Travel Bureau, in Kuwait. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? Taking up new challenges to tackle the competition by introducing new products using innovative marketing methods. When is the best time to visit Kuwait? September through December. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? Austria or Turkey. Why should people come to you for travel advice? Because of our knowledge and experience on how we recommended suitable destinations to the types of clients based on their interest and budget. 28 FEBRUARY 2015
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TRAVEL TALK
USD7 billion has been earmarked for infrastructure projects linked to Expo 2020
JOHN STEVENS Managing director, Asteco
“We are now handling a steady stream of enquiries from small start-ups to international companies looking to set up their businesses [at ibn Battuta Gate Office building] and we expect that to accelerate in the run up to Expo 2020, particularly with the availability of fully fitted, fully inclusive offices with dedicated parking spaces. Around USD7 billion has been earmarked for development and infrastructure projects linked to Expo 2020 which will effectively position the 150ha development as a hub in its own right.”
We will continue to drive our growth through our […] one-size-fits-one approach
PHILIPPE ZUBER Chief operating officer, Emaar Hospitality Group
We are thrilled to be on the top of the ranking in our region [...] as we continue to provide the best services
KARIM ZAKI General manager, Novotel, ibis and Adagio Fujairah
“We are thrilled to be on the top of the ranking in our region [with Novotel Fujairah scooping two awards from Accor for the best net promoter index and overall satisfaction] as we continue to provide the best services and facilities to our guests every day.”
“The Global Traveler Awards are another strong endorsement on the exceptional guest experience that The Address Hotels + Resorts offer. [The Best Hotel Chain in the Middle East award] is also a testament to the brand’s recognition globally in setting new benchmarks in the hospitality sector. Our focus on providing tangible guest benefits is highlighted by the [Best Individual Hotel in the World] award for The Address Downtown Dubai. We will continue to drive our growth through our award-winning one-size-fitsone approach.”
There is a need to create awareness about [Ajman]
FERGHAL PURCELL General manager, The Ajman Palace Hotel
“There is a need to create greater awareness about [Ajman] itself. [...] Ajman is home to many historical sites, lovely white sandy beaches, an enchanting museum, exotic souks and the largest dhow-building yard in the world. The traditional way of Arab living has been well preserved here. […] Plans for the international airport combined with new properties, infrastructure and attractions such as the golf course in Al Zohra will greatly boost tourism in Ajman positioning it as a sought-after destination in the years ahead.”
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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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Thailand Looks to a Brighter Future Thailand’s tourism industry has turned the corner after a difficult year, bouncing back in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2014 with strong growth, according to data released by STR Global at Thailand Tourism Forum 2015.
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eld at InterContinental Bangkok, the fourth edition of the event gathered a record number of delegates totalling over 500 from across Asia to glean insight from industry leaders on Thailand’s tourism trends. Jesper Palmqvist, area director, Asia Pacific, STR Global, revealed that occupancy in December 2014 for Bangkok was one of the highest ever recorded by STR Global since 2000.
Bangkok
Abu Dhabi Airports: Employer of Choice for UAE Nationals
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n ambitious Emiratisation target of 50 percent by the end of the year has been announced by Abu Dhabi Airports. The company’s sustained commitment to employing locals is part of its vision to be an employer of choice for Emiratis. In order to reach this target, Abu Dhabi Airports is offering 100 scholarships within UAE universities and colleges alongside 50 jobs in its fire-fighting and administration departments, and a further 50 entries within its national training programme Al Eqla’a. The initiative is delivered over an 18- to 24-month period and is divided into five phases.
Etihad to Employ 6,000 Emiratis
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s part of its UAE national development strategy, Etihad Airways plans to offer more than 6,000 jobs to Emiratis over the next five years. To reach the target, the airline will continue to utilise the strategic collaborations it has formed with the UAE government, educational and Emiratisation institutions. As Ray Gammell, chief people and performance officer, Etihad Airways, explained, these partnerships are vital to recruiting, retaining and developing a UAE national workforce and as a result, Emiratis are now the number one nationality group in the airline. “We have made huge strides and are looking forward to forging new partnerships to support more UAE nationals across the business and significantly increase our Emirati representation year-on-year,” he added.
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WHO’S MOVED
JORDI PORCEL COSTES
THOMAS JOSEPH
Jordi Porcel Costes has been chosen as Etihad Airways’ new general manager in Spain. Building on his extensive experience in the aviation industry and knowledge of the region, Costes will lead Etihad Airways’ Spanish commercial operations from the airline’s Madrid office. He joins the UAE carrier from Vueling Airlines where he served as chief sales officer for the past three years. Prior to that, he worked in various managerial positions for British Airways, with the last position at the UK carrier being that of regional commercial manager responsible for Spain, Portugal and Latin America. Costes’ appointment comes as Etihad Airways prepares to launch direct services between Abu Dhabi and Madrid on March 30.
Thomas Joseph has taken on the role of business development manager for exhibitions at the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC). Joseph joins OCEC’s growing team after almost a decade in the local exhibition, business and live events industry. Over the years, he has gained vast knowledge of the regional market and the industry. In his new capacity, he will utilise these skills in order to increase the Sultanate’s market share in the sector. As business development manager for exhibitions, Joseph is expected to play a key role in the successful launch of OCEC in 2016.
Joseph has spent almost a decade in the event industry
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SHEIKHA AL MUGHEIRY
ABDULMOEEN NASSER
Sheikha Al Mugheiry has assumed the post of international business development manager at Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC), as the venue is preparing to become the catalyst in attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the Sultanate. Having worked for the past six years in the local five-star hospitality industry, Al Mugheiry has gained a wealth of experience that will play a critical role in her new position. As business development manager, she will continue to work closely with the Omani community to attract major international conventions to the Sultanate. Al Mugheiry considers being part of such a landmark development a privilege and aims to use this opportunity to showcase the beauty that the country has to offer to the world.
Abdulmoeen Nasser is now part of the team of Park Inn by Radisson, Al Kobar as the property’s new human resources manager. Nasser has several years of experience in the field of human resources and in the hospitality industry in general. After graduating from the King Faisal University with a degree in business – human resources affiliation, he began his career at Gosaibi Hotel Al Khobar. He then joined Abdulaziz Mubarak Group as director general of the head office. In his new role, Nasser will be responsible for all aspects of human resources and government relations for the 148room hotel.
Nasser will be also responsible for government relations
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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...
To celebrate the arrival of Michael Koth, the new director of operations, and the accomplishments of the outgoing general manager, Jan Ifcic, InterContinental Jordan held a cocktail reception
The newest members of flydubai's cabin crew
W Doha Hotel & Residences team joined the National Sports Day activities
National Sports Day at Hamad International Airport in Doha
Spectacular show during the annual Sharjah Light Festival
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NEWS & EVENTS INVESTOUR Calls for Stronger Brand Africa
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NVESTOUR, a joint World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), FITUR and Casa Africa initiative, has gathered 16 tourism ministers from Africa and the Middle East, alongside numerous experts, to discuss matters such as branding and promotion, foreign direct investment, human resources development and visa facilitation. The debate especially highlighted the need to build a stronger Brand Africa. Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO, said, “In order to fulfil Africa’s tourism potential, key challenges such as infrastructure development, need to be addressed.”
Qasr Al Hosn Festival Revives Culture
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ne of the UAE capital’s most iconic structures, the Cultural Foundation Building was brought back to life at this year’s Qasr Al Hosn Festival. Areas of the facility were reopened to the public and revived through a number of interactive activities and performances that engaged visitors. Located on the same founding block of the city of Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn stands next to the Cultural Foundation Building which has housed the UAE’s first dedicated cultural centre.
EVENTS ITB BERLIN Berlin, Germany March 04 – 08 www.itb-berlin.de A leading trade fair for the global travel industry as in 2014 some 10,140 companies from 189 countries exhibited their products.
GUANGZHOU INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL FAIR Guangzhou, China March 06 – 08 www.gitf.com.cn The fair has received wide attention from the tourism industry since its first session, 22 years ago.
INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET JAPAN Kyoto, Japan March 16 – 18 www.iltm.com/japan A specialist invitation-only event, where Japan’s travel agents and advisors meet the world’s most spectacular travel experiences.
MITT TRAVEL & TOURISM EXHIBITION Moscow, Russia March 18 – 21 www.mitt.ru One of Russia’s largest and longest running travel exhibitions with over 2,056 participants and more than 200 destinations.
INTERNATIONAL SKI TRAVEL MARKET Davos, Switzerland March 23 – 24 www.istm.co.uk An event, bringing together resorts, tourism boards and ski travel suppliers.
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