30 AUGUST 2014
ISSUE 251
STR GLOBAL REPORTS ON MEA PERFORMANCE ACCORDING TO OMAN’S NATIONAL CENTRE FOR STATISTICS AND INFORMATION THE TOTAL NUMBER OF KHAREEF SALALAH VISITORS, BOTH LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL, HAS GROWN BY 170 PERCENT.
02 JUMEIRAH GROUP LAUNCHES MOBILE CAREERS SITE
11 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE TECHNOLOGY RENDEZVOUS ACCOMMODATION CLASSIFIEDS AIR INTERNATIONAL AGENT CORNER TRAVEL TALK TRAVEL CHANNELS WHO’S MOVED PHOTO ALBUM NEWS & EVENTS
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VISITORS TO KHAREEF SALALAH EXCEED 203,000
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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of
MANAGING EDITOR
29/08/2014
Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar
ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba
COUNTRY
CURRENCY
1USD=
PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.15
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,512.5
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
153.55
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.28
Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.38
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.74
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.47
Iran (IRR)
Riyal
26,624.00
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.89
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
80.37
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.23
WEB DEVELOPER / IT Soteris Constantinou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
STR Global Reports on Middle East and Africa Performance According to data compiled by STR Global, the Middle East and Africa region (MEA) reported positive performance in June yearto-date figures.
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he figures showed a one percent increase in occupancy to 64.6 percent, a 3.5 percent increase in average daily rate (ADR) to USD169.22 and a 4.5 percent increase in RevPAR to USD109.24. “We are seeing rate growth for all three sub-regions, including the Middle East (up 2.4 percent), Northern Africa (up 2.0 percent) and Southern Africa (up 7.2 percent),” said Elizabeth Winkle, managing director, STR Global. “It is nice to see some ADR growth across the region, albeit muted, in spite of instability and turbulence in many of the countries.”
Abu Dhabi Hotel Profits Rise 11.8 Percent in H1 The Abu Dhabi hotel market continued to grow, as strong performance elevated profitability levels in the first half of the year (H1), according to the latest HotStats survey from TRI Hospitality Consulting.
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Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi
ncreasing demand raised occupancy levels by 4.9 percentage points to 78.2 percent, drove RevPAR up 6.8 percent while average room rates (ARR) remained stable in the period under review. “Occupancy growth allowed hoteliers to maintain steady average rates during the first six months of the year, as the market showed signs of stabilisation. ARR have increased for four consecutive months while occupancies have seen a consistent upward trend for nearly two years,” commented Peter Goddard, managing director, TRI Hospitality Consulting.
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TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS Travelport Increases Stake in eNett International
New Red App Delivers Carey Limo Content
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ravelport announced an increased ownership stake in eNett International, its joint venture with PSP International, which was established to provide stateof-the-art integrated payment solutions tailored specifically for the travel industry. Since the joint venture’s inception in 2009, Travelport held a majority stake of 57 percent, with PSP International holding the remainder. Over the past five years, eNett International has grown to become an increasing part of Travelport’s strategy to redefine travel commerce. Upon the new deal, Travelport acquired an additional 16 percent from its partner, raising its holding to 73 percent, in a transaction which values the venture at USD450 million.
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arey International, a leading provider in chauffeured services and ground transportation logistics management, has created a new application in collaboration with Sabre Corporation enabling travel agents to book chauffeured ground services in more than 1,000 cities worldwide directly from the Sabre Red Workspace. Carey’s new Red App provides real-time status updates so that any changes made by passengers appear in the agent’s workflow and on the traveller’s itinerary. “Typically, when people talk about global distribution system (GDS) content they largely think of air, hotel and rental car content. That is changing, and it will continue to evolve dramatically in the coming years,” said Greg Webb, president, Sabre Travel Network.
Sabre’s New Technology for Air Travel
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abre Corporation and payment services partner Conferma have introduced Sabre Virtual Payments for air travel, designed to streamline and automate settlement of air segments for travel buyers. The system is built on the most secure payment card technology available and assigns a unique virtual credit card number to each travel segment. The service allows corporations to control the exact amount of every transaction and ensures that only airlines are able to bill these accounts, delivering even more protection against fraud. Greg Webb, president, Sabre Travel Network, commented, “Virtual payment services are a huge opportunity to realise increased efficiency through automated process and better data integration.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
VISITORS TO KHAREEF SALALAH EXCEED 203,000
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According to Oman’s National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) the total number of Khareef Salalah visitors, both local and international, has grown by 170 percent.
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or the period June 21 – August 6 the number of travellers stood at 203,171, compared to just 75,262 in 2013. NCSI revealed that the majority of visitors within the recording period were GCC citizens, totalling 178,131, with Omanis comprising the majority of these travellers at 143,099. In second place were UAE citizens at 25,923, followed by 5,035 visitors of other Arab nationalities. For the first time, NCSI introduced a simple and convenient self-counting platform to be used by visitors, who could complete the electronic forms as they passed through Salalah and Muscat International Airports.
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Bawadi Mall Welcomes Over 800,000 Visitors
Salalah
awadi Mall in Al Ain welcomed 829,121 visitors during Ramadan, an increase of 7.5 percent over the same period in 2013. The increase was attributed to the extensive shopping campaign held across 400 outlets, which gave visitors the chance to win prizes every day, and an entertainment campaign entitled Around the World in 40 Days that will continue until September 6. Bassam Saleh, marketing manager, Bawadi Mall, revealed that their strategy is based on widening the options offered to visitors, explaining, “Customers in the UAE look for more than a traditional shopping experience, as competitors now consider other elements like entertainment, hospitality, promotions and raffle draws to attract visitors.”
30 AUGUST 2014
WEEKLY NEWS Gulf Air to Represent MENA at SITA Council
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ulf Air has recently taken on the post of MENA representative on the Société Internationale de Télécommunications Aéronautiques (SITA) Council, with Jassim Haji, director of information technology, Gulf Air, taking the seat. “As technology becomes an increasingly important part of people’s travel experience, Gulf Air’s steadfast commitment to implementing the latest information technology enhancements has reaped many benefits for both the airline and its customers. Participating in the SITA Council will give us the opportunity to embark on a wider spectrum of information technology innovations which can only bring about greater benefit to all,” said Haji.
30 AUGUST 2014
Halal Market’s Value Rises
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he latest research note by Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry states that the halal food and beverage market was worth USD1.1 trillion in 2013 and is expected to grow to USD1.6 trillion by 2018. The news is significant ahead of October’s 10th World Islamic Economic Forum to be held in Dubai, where halal food will be discussed as a major component of the Islamic economy. Commenting on the report, H.E. Abdul Rahman Saif Al Ghurair, chairman, Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, confirmed his belief that Dubai has the capability to create new avenues for growth and become an international centre for the halal industry, as halal food is a key pillar in the Dubai Capital of Islamic Economy initiative launched in 2013. The sector is growing in a number of countries globally, mainly those of the MENA region, South and Southeast Asia.
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WEEKLY NEWS
Passenger Movement Declines in June
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assenger traffic results for June from the International global Air Transport Association (IATA) indicate a modest deceleration in growth compared to May. Tony Tyler, director general, IATA, commented, “June traffic growth at 4.7 percent [over the same period a year ago] is encouraging, even though it is a slight weakening on May’s performance.” International passenger demand rose 5.5 percent compared to June 2013, with airlines in all regions, except Africa, recording growth. The strongest gains were amongst Middle East carriers where demand jumped 10.8 percent in June, the largest increase for any region and reflecting the continued strength of regional economies and solid growth in business-related premium travel. Tyler expressed optimism that the industry will still end the year with an improvement in profitability over 2013 but also pointed out that certain regional risks will challenge some airlines more than others.
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Saudi Arabia to Exhibit at WTM for First Time
Riyadh
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he Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA), along with the country’s national airline Saudi Arabian Airlines and low cost flynas, will all be exhibiting for the first time at World Travel Market (WTM) in London from November 3 – 6. Commenting on their reasons for participating at WTM, Hamad Alsheikh, vice president, marketing and programmes, SCTA, said, “We plan to highlight and introduce the existing tourism investments in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in different fields, especially in the convention and exhibition sector and accommodation sector, in addition to other tourism and investment areas.” According to a 2013 MENA tourism and hospitality report by research consultancy Aranca, the Saudi government plans to invest heavily in its tourism industry over the next decade to the tune of over GBP18 billion (USD30 billion).
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WEEKLY NEWS RAK Properties Reports Strong Sales in H1
Tour Oman Smartphone Application Launched by NCSI
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Julfas Towers, RAK Properties
he National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI) in Oman recently launched the Tour Oman application, providing visitors as well as citizens with essential information while exploring the country. This includes information about government and private sector services, ATMs, hotels, historic and archaeological sites, and natural tourist attractions around the Sultanate such as water springs, wadis and waterfalls. The information is backed with geographical data showing the location of the desired destination on the map and guidance on how it can be reached most efficiently by road.
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AK Properties has reported revenues of AED149 million (USD40.6 million) on sales in excess of AED234 million (USD63.7 million), generating net profits of AED52 million (USD14.2 million) for the first half of the year [H1], up slightly over the same period in 2013. RAK Properties is one of the largest real estate developers in the GCC and is currently engaged in a massive expansion phase. Mohammed Sultan Al Qadi, CEO, RAK Properties, said, “We are pleased with the company’s strong performance for the first half of the year,” adding that the company is studying new projects including more residential and hospitality leisure developments. RAK Properties' current total assets are valued at AED4.7 billion (USD1.3 billion).
RTA to Link Tram Stations with Neighbouring Hotels
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ubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) held a workshop to forge integration between the tram stations and residents of nearby hospitality units, and examine how best to serve the needs of these hotels when the tram starts operation later this year. Nasir Bu Shehab, director of strategic planning, RTA, encouraged residents and tourists to use the tram, confirming that RTA can provide integrated public transport cards at hotels along with maps depicting the tram stations to facilitate use of the tram. “During the workshop, representatives of hotels as well as investors made a host of suggestions, inquiries and ideas which will be studied as they have the potential of improving the effectiveness of the Dubai Tram in the best manner,” added Bu Shehab.
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RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How would you describe the first half (H1) of the year in terms of tourist arrivals? Has the hotel experienced an increase in tourist volumes? MOHAMED MAKNINE: H1 has been on a par with our performance of H1 2013, which is a good performance all things considered. No real increase in terms of volumes but perhaps in terms of segments, since golf and thalassotherapy aficionados have shown growing interest in our property compared to [2013].
Q & A with
Mohamed Maknine ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, SALES AND MARKETING, MÖVENPICK RESORT & MARINE SPA SOUSSE
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THE LAST MINUTE BOOKINGS BUSINESS IS SUBSTANTIAL, BUT CANNOT BE FORECASTED IN AN EFFECTIVE WAY
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What do you think are the main challenges Tunisia is facing with regards to the hospitality industry at this point? Is room
MOHAMED MAKNINE: More than the mere aspect of available room inventory, the essential factor is seasonality. Come summer, demand is such that it is difficult to satisfy it and having extra room capacity would be great. But filling those very same rooms in the lower occupancy periods is also challenging. This is the sort of contrast that needs to be considered: building more capacity, or trying to use the existing one in a more efficient and profitable manner. Another challenge lies in the change of behaviour of our customers, as the recent trend shows that our guests are delaying the decision to go on holiday or not – and choice of destination. The last minute bookings business is substantial, but cannot be forecasted in an effective way. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Many international hospitality brands are planning expansion into the country. What makes Tunisia an attractive destination for them do you think?
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are your key feeder markets and how have these changed over the years? MOHAMED MAKNINE: Our property enjoys an eclectic mix of nationalities, but the main feeder markets remain Germany, the UK and Russia. Performance from French-speaking markets, such as France, Benelux and Switzerland, has been lower than in the past, and this is one of the areas we are focussing our efforts on.
inventory satisfactory for the current demand ?
TUNISIA IS GOING THROUGH A TRANSITIONAL PHASE, BUT HOTELS SEEM TO BE ENJOYING HEALTHY RATES, AND ACCORDING TO MOHAMED MAKNINE, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, SALES AND MARKETING, MÖVENPICK RESORT & MARINE SPA SOUSSE, THINGS ARE MOVING QUICKLY IN THE COUNTRY.
MOHAMED MAKNINE: Tunisia is attractive to these brands for the same reasons that made Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts one of the first international brands to believe in the destination. Tunisian hospitality is legendary, the warmth of its people unique. Educated people are easier to hire and train and quality infrastructure in and around hotels is also a major point. There is a new breed of hotels appearing in the country over the past few years, built to modern standards and offering facilities and services that are in line with the expectations of the modern traveller. Things are moving quickly here and we are happy to be riding the winds of change in Sousse.
Mövenpick Resort & Marine Spa Sousse
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WEEKLY NEWS Corporate Demand Drives TRevPAR Growth in Jeddah
UAE Visa Changes to Boost Dubai’s Cruise Tourism
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ubai’s cruise sector will experience a transformation following recent regulatory changes to UAE’s visa system. The new ruling, which took effect on August 1, will ensure implementation of a new visa and fees system, consisting of amendments such as a new multiple entry tourism permit for cruise passengers, and a range of new entry permits for medical tourists. Discussing the changes, Hamad Mohammed Bin Mejren, executive director, business tourism, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, commented, “Through our network of Dubai Tourism offices across the world we will use the ruling to further promote Dubai’s attractiveness as a destination for both leisure and business.”
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Jeddah
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eddah hotels saw average room rates surge 15.5 percent to USD305.92 in June, reaching the highest level amongst MENA hotels surveyed by HotStats for the month under review. Despite occupancies declining by 3.1 percentage points to 82.3 percent, average room rates (ARR) drove RevPAR growth of 11.3 percent to USD251.71. High corporate and MICE demand caused double-digit growth in food and beverage and conferencing revenues, which elevated total RevPAR (TRevPAR) levels to USD386.95. Hotels in Jeddah historically record strong revenues in June, however, performance was particularly robust this year, as corporate and conferencing segments drove double-digit growth in average rates, while the hosting of regional events also generated higher dining and conferencing revenues, as Peter Goddard, managing director, TRI Hospitality Consulting, explained.
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WEEKLY NEWS
BBC Blue Planet in Concert to Open VOR Stopover in Abu Dhabi
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bu Dhabi’s Volvo Ocean Race (VOR) Stopover will open with two 90-minute performances of the BBC’s highly-acclaimed Blue Planet in Concert on December 12 and 13, marking the show’s Arabian premiere. High definition footage from the BBC nature programme The Blue Planet will be shown on a 10m-wide screen on a purpose-built stage floating in the waters off Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, accompanied by a 78-piece live orchestra led by a celebrity guest conductor. Sultan Al Dhaheri, acting executive director, tourism, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, commented, “The stopover is a tremendous international showcase which propels our winter water sports credentials and marine heritage to the fore among the global sailing community.”
BAC Strikes Technology Agreement with BEONTRA
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new technology agreement was announced between Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), manager and operator of Bahrain International Airport, and BEONTRA, a Lockheed Martin company. The deal will see the implementation of BEONTRA’s cutting edge route analysis tool, B Route Development. The technology will allow BAC to calculate, analyse, and present route cases to airlines, while being able to re-calculate and amend on demand, ensuring that airlines are provided with the most efficient service possible through high-quality route analysis.
BRIC Capital Inflow to UAE Exceeds that of MENA
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ccording to Fortress Investments, a leading Middle East investment firm, there has been a significant increase in capital inflow to UAE from the BRIC countries, particularly from India. The news that BRIC inflow to UAE surpassed that of MENA follows index compiler MSCI’s recent upgrading of UAE to emerging market status, placing it within the BRIC grouping. Hamed Mokhtar, managing director, Fortress Investments, commented that Dubai’s hosting of the annual meeting of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund in 2003 provided the first spark to catapulting the emirate and UAE onto the global finance stage.
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ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS
Al Basel Consultancy in Partnership with Mandarin Oriental
Suites in the SKAI Underway
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S Al Basel Consultancy, a leading company in the high-end hospitality sector, has announced a partnership with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.
KAI Holdings has secured AED927 million (USD252.4 million) worth of sales for its new four-star hotel, Suites in the SKAI. Strategically located in close proximity to three of Dubai’s arterial roads and a short drive from Dubai’s new international airport, Suites in the SKAI will comprise 234 hotel rooms, 234 one-and two-bedroom apartments and 33 penthouses. The property’s tri-star wing structure allows for each room and apartment to incorporate a landscaped garden. The 117 one-bedroom hotel apartments will come complete with an outdoor sky garden and Jacuzzi while the 117 two-bedroom apartments include a swimming pool and floor to ceiling windows with cascading water. Construction is to begin in September with operation commencing in 2017.
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he consultancy will promote Mandarin Oriental hotels worldwide to discerning clients in the Middle East and GCC who expect high-quality standards and luxurious accommodation. “We are very honoured to welcome Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group as a key partner, allowing us to live up to our commitment of only offering the best to our customers,” said Basel Al Kasem, CEO, Al Basel Group. Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group now operates, or has under development, 44 hotels representing close to 11,000 rooms in 25 countries.
Jumeirah Group Launches Mobile Careers Site
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umeirah Group has launched a mobile careers site making it easier for candidates to apply for jobs. The new website can adapt itself to various platforms including Android, iPhone, iPad and Blackberry and can also be viewed on desktops. It offers users easy navigation and access, enabling them to search the interactive vacancy map, complete the application process and check its status, as well as manage interview time slots and modify personal details. “With increasing competition for talent both in the Gulf region and internationally, at a time of unprecedented growth in the hospitality industry, having a strong employer brand together with an effective digital presence is a key prerequisite for attracting and retaining the best talent,” said Nabil Ramadhan, chief human capital officer, Jumeirah Group.
30 AUGUST 2014
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CLASSIFIEDS RECRUITMENTS
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30 AUGUST 2014
RECRUITMENTS CLASSIFIEDS
NEWLY-OPENING 5-STAR DESERT RESORT HAS SIX OPENINGS Newly-opening 5-star desert resort near Al Ain, UAE, is seeking for the following posts. All must have a minimum of 5 years of experience in the same position in 5-star chain hotels. Food and beverage manager Chief engineer Waitress / waiters Security manager Front office desk agent Guest relations officers
CAPITAL CLUB DUBAI VACANCY
Website: www.gloriahospitality.com Email address: gloriahotels@eim.ae Telephone Number: +971 2 644 4739 Fax Number: +971 2 644 4759
IN-HOUSE GRAPHIC DESIGNER (BEACH HOTEL IN RAS AL KHAIMAH) Must be fluent in Arabic and English, reading and writing.
Work for one of the top 10 most exclusive private member’s Clubs in the world: Capital Club Dubai. Accepting applications for Membership Managers to lauren.ruttle@capitalclubdubai.com Must have sales experience in luxury goods and/or hospitality, a strong UAE business network and a 5* professional attitude.
30 AUGUST 2014
Bin Majid Hotels & Resorts information: If you are looking to start a career at a fast-paced innovative company with loads of opportunities, then look no further than Bin Majid Hotels & Resorts. We are growing dynamically and are looking for motivated, talented and proactive individuals to join our team. Must be fluent in Arabic and English, reading and writing. Please send your CV to: vanessa.chinopoulou@binmajid.com
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Qatar Airways Boosts Key City Operations to Meet Demand Qatar Airways has announced increased frequencies to the popular cities of Tehran, Islamabad and Muscat from September.
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Tehran
ehran will be served with 18 flights a week when an additional four flights to Iran’s capital city are offered from September 1. An extra two flights per week to Islamabad will help meet the needs of those travelling to and from the Americas, a destination popular with many passengers from Pakistan. Increased demand for the Doha-Muscat route, from local residents in particular, will see an additional four flights bring the total to 35 per week. “People from all over the world are becoming more and more interested in discovering this part of the world. With such rich histories and stunning, undiscovered landscapes, these destinations are hidden gems that are slowly coming into their own,” said Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways Group.
Gulf Air Reaches Asian Market
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ulf Air took part in the three-day Travel Madness Expo in Pasay, Philippines, showcasing three of the airline’s newest product and service developments to the Asian market. The airline highlighted its retrofitted Airbus A330 aircraft, recent schedule enhancements delivering more flights across the network, and new routes. Adel Al Saleem, country manager, Philippines, Gulf Air, commented, “From our revamped A330 product which introduces fully-flat bed seats in the airline’s falcon gold class, upgraded seats in economy class and a state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system, to our increased flights to select destinations in GCC and MENA that serve to facilitate travel across our network, to the launch of our newest destinations this year, we truly believe Gulf Air passengers have a lot to look forward to when they fly with Bahrain’s national carrier.”
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Travel Madness Expo
30 AUGUST 2014
AIR WEEKLY NEWS Qatar Airways Increases Operations to Madrid
Adel Al Redha, executive vice president, Emirates (centre)
Emirates Touches Down in Chicago
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mirates commenced a daily nonstop service to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, with the inaugural flight carrying passengers from more than 20 different countries to the American city. “Increased connectivity with Dubai will expose more international guests to the world-class hospitality, shopping districts, cultural attractions and architectural achievements that make Chicago one of the greatest cities in the world,” said Rahm Emanuel, mayor, Chicago. In addition to passenger service, the Chicago - Dubai flight, which will utilise a US-built Boeing 777-200LR aircraft powered by GE90 engines, will carry up to 17 tonnes of cargo per flight and is set to increase trade links between the two cities.
ommencing November 16, Qatar Airways will be increasing its operations to Madrid, Spain, with the addition of three extra flights per week, bringing the total number of services up from seven to 10 resulting in an overall increase of 2,010 seats. Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways Group, confirmed that in the short time the carrier has been flying to Madrid, there has been a steady increase in the demand for flights. “I am happy to say that a direct result of that is the number of travellers that choose to fly with us has also increased, and this is why we are thrilled to be able to satisfy the demand of our passengers by offering three additional flights per week,” he added.
Qatar Airways’ Al Mourjan Business Lounge Unveiled
Q Al Mourjan Business Lounge
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atar Airways’ premium passengers can now enjoy one of the largest lounges in the world in the shape of the 10,000m2 Al Mourjan Business Lounge at Hamad International Airport. Spread over two levels, the lounge is able to accommodate 1,000 guests at a time and features quiet rooms and relaxing family spaces, games rooms, prayer rooms, a nursery and shower facilities as well as a dedicated business centre. After sampling one of the many dining options, guests can enjoy the water feature located at the base of the spiral staircase which leads to the mezzanine level. Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways Group, said, “We are very pleased to be able to offer our premium passengers our new premium lounge, which sets new benchmarks in airport luxury and will far exceed our passengers’ expectations.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR Second Freighter Service between Doha and Delhi
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atar Airways Cargo has rapidly increased capacity on its freighter service to Delhi, India by already adding a second frequency after its recent launch in May. Marking the city as a highly important market, Ulrich Ogiermann, chief officer, cargo, Qatar Airways, commented, “Delhi has one of India's largest and fastest growing retail industries, and on top of that, it is an important commercial capital for Asia.� With its move to the brand new, fully automated cargo terminal at Hamad International Airport and the recent launch of two new premium services optimising the transportation of time and temperature-sensitive goods, Qatar Airways Cargo offers the very latest technology and five-star service to customers across the globe and has further enhanced its capacity and flexibility to effectively move sensitive commodities in line with the highest world-class standards.
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Emirates Introduces Abuja Route
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mirates commenced flight operations to Abuja, the Nigerian capital, marking its second destination in the country after Lagos and its 26th in Africa. The new daily Dubai - Abuja route provides a convenient point-to-point service for customers. In addition, the freight division of the airline, Emirates SkyCargo, offers over 180 tonnes of cargo capacity a week on the route. Identifying Nigeria as a key target market, Adil Al Ghaith, vice president, commercial operations, Northern and Western Africa, Emirates, expressed the hope that this flight will further stimulate business and leisure travel demand, as well as trade, between the two cities.
Mahan Air Reported Growth in H1
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ahan Air has issued its first half (H1) passenger and cargo traffic results, registering a strong performance and steady growth during the period. More than 2.8 million passengers were carried, a figure up nine percent on H1 in 2013. According to the announcement, Mahan Air achieved a 79 percent load factor on its domestic and international network while the load factor for its domestic network only was 82 percent. Cargo operations also grew by 19 percent. During this time period the airline added its 14th international destination, to Yerevan in Armenia, and also increased frequency on many of its international and domestic routes.
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RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How would you describe the first half of the year in terms of tourist arrivals? Have you experienced an increase in tourist volumes? SAMI OUNALLI: Although [there was] a small improvement compared to 2013, the first six months of the year were below our expectations. We are still below our level of normal activity registered in 2010 and previous years. The overall volume has been steady in the past four years. There are source markets, like Germany and Italy which are up and others, like France and Scandinavian countries which we need to set in motion for recovering. In Tunisia, generally, every tourism professional is aware that winter is tough. April to October are the best months. This year, July [has been] abnormally bad. I hope that we will have better business for the rest of the season when reservations are coming, mainly, at the last minute.
Q & A with Sami Ounalli
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT MANAGER, RADISSON BLU ULYSSE RESORT & THALASSO AND RADISSON BLU PALACE RESORT & THALASSO, DJERBA
and needs. You can find budget hotels as well as luxury ones, you can find animated all-inclusive clubs as well as guesthouses. The tourism offer in general is satisfactory. Tunisia is a serious competitor to other Mediterranean destinations and has much strength such as geographical location, temperate weather, history, culture, gastronomy, nature, natural hospitality and quality of service. The main challenges for the moment are to maintain stability and to establish better flight connections with traditional and new markets. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Many international hospitality brands are planning expansion into the country. What makes Tunisia an attractive destination for them do you think? SAMI OUNALLI: Tunisia has always interested international hospitality brands. Many projects have been concluded re-
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are your key feeder markets and how have these changed over the years? SAMI OUNALLI: France is the main market, followed by Germany, UK, Switzerland, Belgium, and Scandinavian countries. Since 2011 the French market has decreased by approximately 40 percent for different reasons. The UK and German markets are performing better. Other markets are stable. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What do you think are the main challenges Tunisia is facing with regards to the hospitality industry at this point? Is room inventory satisfactory for the current demand in your opinion? Sami Ounalli: Tunisia counts more than 700 hotels covering all market segments
Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Thalasso, Djerba
TUNISIA IS A HUB BETWEEN WORLDS AND CONTINENTS, CONCEALING BIG BUSINESS POTENTIAL. SAMI OUNALLI, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT MANAGER, RADISSON BLU ULYSSE RESORT & THALASSO AND RADISSON BLU PALACE RESORT & THALASSO, DJERBA, UNVEILS THE HIDDEN SECRET.
cently. By 2016, the most famous hotel chains will be operating in the country. Because of its strategic location, Tunisia is a hub between north and south and between east and west. There is big business potential in the future. Tunisia also has a respectable touristic infrastructure and mainly well-trained and experienced staff able to deliver the best service.
Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Thalasso, Djerba
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL IHG and Sikka Set to Develop Crowne Plaza in Noida
JW Marriott Expands Chinese Portfolio
J kn Did you
W Marriott Hotels & Resorts has unveiled another luxury property in China, with the opening of the 416-key JW Marriott Hotel Zhengzhou, in Henan Province. The new hotel is situated on the topmost storeys of the Millennium Royal Plaza which, at 280m, is the highest building in central China. “This is a significant property as it is our first hotel in Zhengzhou which is an important transportation, business and convention hub in central China,” commented Simon Cooper, president, Asia, Marriott International. The newly opened retreat boasts 2,500m2 of gathering and event space, including the 1,000m2 JW Grand Ballroom, featuring a LED wall panel, six meeting rooms and a spacious ballroom foyer. In addition, the hotel provides guests with four dining options offering Chinese, Western, Cantonese and Japanese specialties.
ow. .
Crowne Plaza Taj Expressway Noida
ntal tine p n o C u r Inte tels Gro Ho rently in cur otels 19 h a? s ha Indi
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and real estate developer Sikka signed an agreement to open the new 150-room Crowne Plaza Taj Expressway Noida. The newly-signed property, expected to open in 2018, will be the second IHG hotel in the tourist destination of Noida, and will add to IHG's portfolio of seven Crowne Plaza properties across the country. The new hotel will be a part of The Downtown project, a mixed-use development which also comprises corporate offices and retail spaces. Commenting on the company’s expansion, Pascal Gauvin, chief operating officer, India, Middle East, Africa, IHG, said, “India is a key market for us. It holds our third largest development pipeline globally, behind the US and China, and over the next three to five years we will grow by nearly 300 percent there.“
JW Marriott Hotel Zhengzhou
Element Brand to Debut in Aspen Valley
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tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced plans to introduce its Element brand to Basalt Aspen Valley in Colorado, US, in August 2015. Situated near the two ski and mountain towns of Aspen and Snowmass Village, the hotel will provide easy access to the area’s ski resorts. As Allison Reid, senior vice president, North America development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, pointed out, “Element Basalt Aspen Valley will offer an entirely fresh perspective on the extended stay experience in an area celebrated for its skiing and year-round outdoor recreation.”
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AGENT CORNER
Agent’s Insight NAME:
Hasnain Tayyab
POSITION:
Marketing manager
COMPANY:
Travelex Travel & Tours
LOCATION:
UAE
WEBSITE:
www.travelex.ae
Alpha Tours Supports DSS
What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? Travel is my passion. So apart from all the perks that you get in the travel industry, working for this industry itself is my favourite thing. When is the best time to visit UAE? We are based in Dubai, UAE which is one of the fastest growing tourist spots in the world. Despite all these attractions, this place is known for its extremely hot weather, so if you want to explore the wonders that Dubai has to offer, the best time of the year would be November to February when the weather is perfect. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? My next holiday destination is Dubrovnik, Croatia. Why should people come to you for travel advice? As stated above, we are not only travel professionals but we are a team of sports enthusiasts who know sports very well and understand what it takes to make your sports travel experience more entertaining and memorable. 30 AUGUST 2014
Ghassan Al Aridi
Who are you? I am a sales and marketing professional with a decade of experience in different industries. I am new to the travel industry but this is the most exciting industry that I have ever worked in so far. I work with Travelex Travels & Tours which takes pride in being one of the pioneers of sports travel industry in the UAE region. We are a team of travel experts with a passion for sports that makes my team the best place to consult when travelling for any sporting event.
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uring Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), Alpha Tours, the Arabian Gulf destination management company, has launched a series of special services for its customers. The company, which offers a variety of entertainment options, has extended some of its best cruise destination consultancy and management, air charter operations, eco-tourism programmes, tours and excursions, leisure group programmes, medical tourism, and hotel reservations services during DSS. As an added incentive, all excursions bear discounts. Ghassan Al Aridi, founder, Alpha Tours, commented, “Our support [to the government of Dubai] is part of our commitment to promote Dubai as a tourist and trade destination. Such initiatives act as a major magnet for tourists into the country, which will ultimately contribute to UAE’s GDP.”
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TRAVEL TALK
SKAI Holdings sees a great deal of potential for upscale four-star concepts
KABIR MULCHANDANI Group CEO, Skai Holdings
“Dubai is one of the most exciting markets for hospitality and real estate globally. [...]Suites in the SKAI will cater to the growing number of business and leisure tourists that are looking for value for money as well as comfort and convenience in a luxurious setting. SKAI Holdings’ strategy is to build high quality hotels in several key locations in Dubai that will cater to the growing demand for tourism in the emirate.”
Gulf Air is proud to be given this opportunity to participate in the SITA Council
MAHER SALMAN AL MUSALLAM Acting CEO, Gulf Air
“It is an honour for Gulf Air to occupy a seat with the foremost information technology and communications representative body for the air transport industry, and I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Arab Air Carriers Organization for nominating Gulf Air and to SITA’s members for accepting it. [...] SITA plays a critical role in the aviation industry operations and it is our pleasure to support its endeavours.”
Our workshop [highlighted] the integration between the Dubai Tram and [...] surrounding areas
NASIR BU SHEHAB Director of strategic planning, Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
“Examples were cited such as the link between the two metro stations at the Dubai Marina and the Jumeirah Lakes, and the link between the tram, buses and other transport means at the Dubai Marina. A briefing was also made to elucidate the efforts made by RTA to improve the neighbourhood of stations in order to ease the movement of pedestrians and cyclists.”
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
Ships of the Desert Dock in Downtown Dubai A life-size sculpture entitled Camels has taken centre stage in Downtown Dubai, the flagship mega-development of Emaar Properties.
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he piece was created by Donald Greig, an avid wildlife enthusiast, and one of Africa’s most prolific sculptors. It features a trio of Arabian camels including an adult and its calf and another camel resting. Weighing in at 800kg, the work took eight months to create plus another four to be cast in bronze. Ahmad Al Matrooshi, managing director, Emaar Properties, said, “The gracious and majestic Arabian camel is a reminder of our past and a cue of how significantly the city has evolved. Donald Greig’s Camels is a seamless fit into Downtown Dubai’s collection of sculptures and artworks from around the world by accomplished artists.”
HeliDubai First Air BP Customer in the Middle East
Cathay Pacific Airways Announces Investment in Biojet Fuel
Camels by Donald Greig
UNWTO Signs Agreement with Tourism Research Institution
A Air BP's first fuelling at DFC Heli-pad
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nternational aviation fuel supplier Air BP continues to grow its business in the Middle East with the successful inauguration of its first off–airport site in the region, located at the HeliDubai Festival City (DFC) Heli-pad. After a successful test refuelling at the venue, HeliDubai became the first customer in the Middle East to sign up to Air BP’s Operations Manual for External General Aviation (OMEGA) programme, designed to ensure that customers such as airport operators, heliport operators and refuelling contractors can achieve high levels of operating standards when handling fuel. The Heli-pad at DFC was opened in 2013 and comprises two pads with a 15 tonne total capacity at the 520ha, premier waterfront urban development.
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s part of its plan to achieve a target of carbon-neutral growth from 2020, Cathay Pacific Airways has become the first airline investor in Fulcrum BioEnergy, a US-based sustainable aviation fuel or biojet fuel developer. The airline has also negotiated a supply agreement with Fulcrum over 10 years, representing approximately two percent of the airline’s fuel consumption on an annual basis. This year Fulcrum plans to start the construction of large scale, waste-to-renewable jet fuel plants at multiple locations, some of them strategic to Cathay Pacific Airways’ network, primarily in North America.
Fulcrum's demonstration plant
Griffith Institute for Tourism
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cooperation agreement has been signed between UNWTO and Australia’s Griffith Institute for Tourism (GIFT) in a bid to advance tourism knowledge. GIFT is a leading tourism research institution and a UNWTO affiliate member. The collaboration will include research on the role of Asia and the Pacific in global tourism, and the creation and dissemination of knowledge on climate change and sustainable tourism development in the region, among many other areas. Discussing the cooperation, Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO, noted, “This partnership enables us to further narrow the gap between demand and supply of tourism research in a number of important areas, not least tourism and climate change [...].”
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WHO’S MOVED
JOHN BURKE
NOEL MASSOUD
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John Burke has taken over as the new director of operations at Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, and will also assume the joint role of technical services manager at the facility. He brings extensive operational experience to the venue having served most recently at the Qatar National Convention Centre in Doha. Prior to that, Burke spent 15 years with the NEC Group in Birmingham, UK, which included overseeing business at the National Exhibition Centre, International Convention Centre, LG Arena and the National Indoor Arena.
MICHAEL CRAWFORD
Burke takes on joint role at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre
Noel Massoud is Swiss-Belhotel International’s new vice president for operations and development in the Middle East. With the company looking to operate seven hotels in the region by 2015, he will oversee the opening of new properties in Bahrain, Oman, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Massoud has extensive experience in hotel management having held senior management positions with InterContinental Hotels Group for more than 25 years. He was also general manager of Kempinski’s Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, developing the property into one of the top luxury hotels in the Middle East. Massoud’s most recent assignment was with Paramount Hotels and Resorts as vice president of development.
ROMA ANDREWS
Michael Crawford has joined Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts executive team in the newly created position of president, Asia Pacific. Reporting directly to the company’s president, Crawford assumes primary responsibility for all business activities in the Asia Pacific region, including implementing the company’s growth plan and delivering on financial objectives associated with the strategic plan for the region. Based in Four Seasons’ corporate office in Singapore, the 24-year veteran of The Walt Disney Company with experince in real estate, is relocating from Shanghai, China, where he was senior vice president and general manager of Shanghai Disney Resort and president of Walt Disney Holding Company, Shanghai.
Roma Andrews has been promoted to executive director for Al Habtoor Motors, in line with the group’s cohesive strategy to continue driving growth via highly energetic and professional senior management teams in all sectors of its operations; hospitality, automotive, car leasing, real estate, and education. Andrews began her career in the UAE 21 years ago following 15 years’ of human resources experience at a leading foreign bank in India. She joined the automotive division of the Al Habtoor Group in 1993 and has since played a key role in spearheading the human resources functions.
Andrews will oversee more than 1,500 employees across the UAE
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island received the Bronze Certification for the Welcome Chinese standard from China Tourism Academy
GTA marks 30 years with charity Mount Fuji climb
Dubai Summer Surprises creates festive atmosphere
Emirates touches down in Chicago
Atlantis, The Palm, enriches Dubai Summer Surprises experience with range of family entertainment
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NEWS & EVENTS Responsible Tourism Programme at WTM
EVENTS SEATRADE LATIN AMERICA CRUISE CONVENTION Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, September 2 – 3, 2014 www.latinamerica-cruise.com The event returns to Brazil after touring the region, focussing on the development of the cruise industry in Latin America.
INCENTIVE, BUSINESS, TRAVEL & MEETINGS EXPO (IBTM) INDIA Chennai, India, September 3 – 5, 2014 www.ibtmevents.com An invitation-only event for India’s inbound, outbound and domestic business travel sector.
FOOD & HOSPITALITY OMAN World Travel Market
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his year’s World Responsible Tourism Programme at World Travel Market (WTM) includes some of the biggest names in the travel industry. Stretching across all four days of the event for the first time, the programme will tackle issues such as the impact of tourism on local economies, the effect on both the environment and the bottom line of reducing water and energy consumption, matters surrounding wildlife tourism and the social inclusion aspect of holidays for all, regardless of disability or background. “The number of big name companies taking part in the World Responsible Tourism Programme this year demonstrates how the issue is moving up the industry’s boardroom agenda,” said Charlotte Sutton, conference and events manager, WTM.
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Muscat, Oman September 9 – 11, 2014 www.foodandhospitalityoman.com A business and networking platform to promote the latest products and services in the food and beverage sector.
ARAB AVIATION & MEDIA SUMMIT Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, September 24 www.aamsummit.com Arab media and top executives gather to have insightful discussions on the current trends.
THE HOTEL SHOW Dubai, UAE September 28 – 30 www.thehotelshow.com Now celebrating 15 successful years, The Hotel Show presents a full view of the hotel and hospitality industry.
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