4 APRIL 2015
ISSUE 282
ILLUSIONS TO REDEFINE TRAVEL BOOKING EFFECTIVE JULY 1, QATAR AIRWAYS WILL LAUNCH FLIGHTS TO ZANZIBAR, THE AIRLINE’S THIRD GATEWAY IN TANZANIA AFTER DAR ES SALAAM AND KILIMANJARO.
05 SHUROOQ AND AIR ARABIA TEAM UP FOR SHARJAH
06 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE
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TECHNOLOGY
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TOURISM AUTHORITIES
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ACCOMMODATION
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AIR
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RENDEZVOUS
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AGENT CORNER
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TRAVEL TALK
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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WHO’S MOVED
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PHOTO ALBUM
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NEWS & EVENTS
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QATAR AIRWAYS CONTINUES AFRICAN EXPANSION
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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli
Abu Dhabi Airport: Passenger Numbers up 21.5 Percent Abu Dhabi International Airport welcomed 1,715,540 passengers in February, a year-on-year increase of 21.5 percent.
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SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba CONTRIBUTORS Dominique Christou Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB DEVELOPER / IT Soteris Constantinou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
Abu Dhabi International Airport
ouble-digit improvements were also recorded in aircraft movements (ACM) and cargo activity, with ACM up 15 percent and freight operations registering a 12.6 percent rise. The top five routes that accounted for 16 percent of all traffic at the hub included Bangkok, London Heathrow, Manila, Doha and Jeddah. As Ahmad Al Haddabi, chief operations officer, Abu Dhabi Airports, noted, the existing infrastructure is under continuous upgrade with the latest project being the Terminal 1 expansion. “We are implementing a full programme of further capacity enhancements both inside and outside the terminals, enabling the existing infrastructure to gear up ahead of the opening of the Midfield Terminal,” he added.
Air Arabia Approves Cash Dividend Following the conclusion of its annual general meeting, Air Arabia’s board of directors approved the distribution of a nine percent cash dividend of the company’s share capital for 2014, equivalent to AED0.09 (USD0.025) per share.
As of 04/3/2015 Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar
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COUNTRY
CURRENCY 1USD=
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.39
Qatar (QAR)
Rial
3.64
Saudi Arabia (SAR) Riyal
3.75
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
97.39
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.58
Iran (IRR)
Rial
28,086.55
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,158.76
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,500.58
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.36
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.86
Syria (SYP)
Pound
188.93
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.94
Yemen (YER)
Rial
215.05
Air Arabia’s annual general meeting
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
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he low-cost carrier, which now operates to 104 destinations from four global hubs, had earlier announced that its 2014 net profit reached AED566 million (USD15 million), up 30 percent compared to 2013. “We are very pleased to be able to share Air Arabia’s success with our shareholders by distributing a nine percent cash dividend,” commented Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammad Al Thani, chairman, Air Arabia. He added that 2014 represented significant milestones for the airline with network expansions and increases in market share.
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ia w g the n Arab Air ed amo omic nam ld Econ igious Wor ’s prest th w m Foru obal Gro or its f s Gl ket e i mar pan Com ion and ? vat ship inno leader
4 APRIL 2015
TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS Accorhotels App to Launch for Apple Watch
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ccorhotels application for Apple Watch is set to be introduced at the end of April, available in 10 languages. The app notably promotes top hotels and destinations, and allows users to manage current bookings on the company's website. Accorhotels customers will be able to receive alerts telling them when the
online check-in service is open; access information about their bookings; arrival date, number of nights, number of guests; receive information about the hotel’s services; access the interactive map, the itinerary to find the hotel and the local weather forecast; and access their Le Club Accorhotels loyalty card details.
IHG Translator App Available for Apple Users
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced that the IHG Translator App will be available for Apple Watch, giving travellers access to on-demand translations, virtually anywhere in the world. The application adopts the most popular features from its mobile predecessor, allowing users to ‘travel like a local’, whatever their choice of device. By speaking directly into the watch, or selecting from a range of pre-loaded common phrases, travellers will be able to translate from English into 13 different languages, in realtime, meaning the app will cover the nine initial launch countries for Apple Watch.
4 APRIL 2015
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WEEKLY NEWS TOURISM AUTHORITIES
Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Industry Heads to Europe
Led by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), a six-strong delegation of the emirate’s tourism stakeholders will tour Europe to build on the increasing inbound tourism trend from the continent.
Abu Dhabi
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ith stops in Milan, Munich, Paris and London, the road show will include presentations from product managers, reservation staff, travel agents, media partners, MICE representatives and industry partners in order to highlight Abu Dhabi’s tourism credentials. “Europe is a hugely important market for us and these four countries alone made up more than 455,000 guest arrivals in 2014 out of a total of 3.4 million,” said Mubarak Al Nuaimi, director of promotions and overseas offices, TCA Abu Dhabi.
Oman’s Ministry of Tourism Supports SMEs
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man’s Ministry of Tourism signed a number of agreements with several banks, including Oman Development Bank, Bank Muscat, Oman Arab Bank and National Bank of Oman, to support and develop small and medium enterprises (SME). Ahmed bin Nasser bin Hamad al Mehrzi, tourism minister, Oman, said that the agreements came after two years of looking for a mechanism to help SMEs operating in the field of tourism and priority would be given to supporting and financing companies and entrepreneurs to work in the private sector.
4 APRIL 2015
WEEKLY NEWS
Tourism Adds Billions to Qatar’s Economy
Arabian Travel Market (ATM)’s road show series passed through Qatar to highlight the country’s healthy growth in the hotel and tourism sector, which saw over USD2.5 billion in contracts awarded in 2014.
Doha
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4 APRIL 2015
rojects totalling USD8.48 billion are currently underway that will set Qatar up as a major tourist and venue attraction. This comes at a time when the completion of important infrastructure projects, such as the iconic Hamad International Airport, and Qatar Airways’ plans to significantly expand across Europe, have confirmed the country’s position as an important tourism hub for the region, as Nadege Noblet, exhibition manager, ATM, explained.
Illusions to Redefine Travel Booking
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ravel technology firm, Illusions Online Arabia has unveiled its roadmap for this year onwards to clients attending its second annual conference Illusions Global User Conference. The event gathered over 50 travel industry professionals from around the globe who were told how the Dubaibased company plans to revolutionise the way people book travel. During the three-day programme, Faisal Memon, CEO, Illusions Online Arabia, and his management team outlined the firm’s ambitious goals, the benefits of its transition to Microsoft’s cloud-based platform, as well as product enhancements being made to improve usability and functionality.
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WEEKLY NEWS Shurooq and Air Arabia Team Up for Sharjah
S Adel Ali, group CEO, Air Arabia (left), and H.E. Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal
harjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and Air Arabia have signed a memorandum of understanding to promote Sharjah across the globe. To encourage, promote and facilitate investment and development in the emirate, the two parties will undertake various initiatives, which, as H.E. Marwan bin Jasim Al Sarkal, CEO, Shurooq, noted, will bring tremendous benefits for the destination. “Sharjah’s world-famous business projects and brands will also be promoted in the destinations Air Arabia flies to, and we will work together to increase our cooperation in future projects and partnerships, thereby contributing to the promotion of Sharjah’s and UAE’s economic and social development,” added Al Sarkal. Air Arabia passengers will also have the opportunity to explore the emirate’s main attractions.
Bahrain International Airport
Enabling Works Kick-off for BIA’s Modernisation
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he first stage of Bahrain International Airport (BIA)’s passenger terminal construction has officially launched with the commencement of enabling works on the facility’s grounds. Scheduled to be completed by November, the works are to relocate all existing utilities and facilities away from the footprint of the passenger terminal and make way for construction to start on the building. According to Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, transportation and telecommunications minister, Bahrain, the project was conceived with a strategic focus in mind: to elevate the facilities, infrastructure and services of Bahrain’s national gateway and boost the Kingdom’s aviation industry and capabilities in line with the national vision and reputation as a leading financial, cultural and aviation centre in the Gulf region.
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4 APRIL 2015
WEEKLY NEWS Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Dome Takes Shape
Cladding in progress
ATM to Focus on Luxury Family Travel
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he number of wealthy families making travel a high-spend priority is on the rise, and this will be a major focus of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2015 seminar series as the region’s inbound and outbound travel professionals look to capitalise on this niche market opportunity. According to the latest YouGov report, the top three luxury holiday destinations for MENA residents are theUAE, Italy and Turkey. Two ILTM@ATM seminar sessions will look at various aspects of luxury travel; Biting into Gourmet Travel and Luxury Family Travel. “This trend for luxury family travel offers opportunities for tour operators to create tailor-made packages that take into account not only family needs, but also the cultural considerations unique to the MENA region, […],” said Nadege Noblet, exhibition manager, ATM.
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ork on the cladding of the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s dome is well underway, confirmed Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), the master developer of Saadiyat’s Cultural District. The dome cladding is made up of eight different layers, inspired by interlaced palm leaves, and is one of the most crucial stages of the museum’s construction. Full installation of the dome, the facility’s main feature, is expected by June. The cladding layers are made from 7,850 star-shaped aluminium and stainless steel elements, the largest of which measures 13m in diameter and weighs 1.3 tonnes. “The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a project founded on a major symbol of Arab architecture: the dome. But here, with its evident shift from tradition, the dome is a modern proposal,” said Jean Nouvel, president, JeanNouvelDesign, who is the architect of the museum.
Katara Hospitality Signs MoU in Qatar
Q
atar Pavilion Committee – Expo 2015 – signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Katara Hospitality. The agreement framework between the two parties identifies Katara Hospitality as the official hospitality partner for delegates, visitors, and associates of Qatar Pavilion Committee during Expo Milan 2015, which takes place from May 1 – October 31, with 144 participating countries and 24 million visitors. The drive behind the deal is to extend mutual cooperation to showcase and achieve the success of Qatar’s participation at the event. Katara Hospitality will extend its support by offering hospitality related services and facilities at its recently-opened property Excelsior Hotel Gallia, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Milan.
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4 APRIL 2015
ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS
Golden Sands Hotel Apartments Eyes Scandinavian Market After a successful participation in ITB Berlin and meetings with a number of potential partners, the management of Golden Sands Hotel Apartments, Dubai is keen to tap into the Scandinavian market.
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ands en S tel d l o G o The nd of h was bra ments st t e fir apar ed as th ts in en eer pion l apar tm989? e 1 t ho bai in Du
The hotel's stand at ITB Berlin
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e had good quality appointments with our key partners, the shared insights and feedbacks were very helpful in developing further business innovations in the industry,” claimed Nives Deininger, director of sales, Golden Sands Hotel Apartments, Dubai, revealing that the hotel received strong interest from the Scandinavian region. The sales drive comes at a time when the management is also busy with the refurbishment of Golden Sands in order to keep up with the trends and changing demands of today’s travellers.
Jumeirah Beach Hotel Adds Indian Restaurant
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umeirah Restaurant Group Dubai has launched Naya, a new casual dining restaurant at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai. Boasting a relaxed and family-friendly environment, Naya offers rustic, home-cooked and down-to-earth Indian classic and contemporary dishes, including a variety of vegetarian options. “I use authentic flavours for each and every one of my creations which all have their own twist, to give that wow factor,” explained Pravish Shetty, head chef, Naya.
Four Seasons Hotel Doha Debuts New Dining Outlet
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our Seasons Hotel Doha, in partnership with chef Nobu Matsuhisa, announced that the restaurant Nobu Doha is scheduled to open by the end of the year. The tri-level modern facility aims showcase the very best in culinary experiences matched by panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. It will feature an expansive 192-seat interior dining area, sushi counter, two exclusive private dining rooms, and an 82-seat rooftop lounge that encompasses both indoor and outdoor options. Rami Sayess, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Doha, commented, “The collaboration between these two iconic brands will both compliment and enrich Four Seasons’ already superb amenities.”
4 APRIL 2015
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Marsa Malaz Kempinski Opens Trio of Restaurants
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arsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl Doha launched three new restaurants, offering cuisines ranging from the Iberian Peninsula to the Levant. Situated at the hooves of the 18m horse statue by Iraqi born artist Ahmed Al Bahrani, Sawa serves a blend of European and Mediterranean flavours. El Faro is an authentic Spanish offering in the heart of Doha and a stylish corner inside the hotel with an ambient central tapas counter and a peaceful outdoor terrace. Lastly, Al Sufra, meaning ‘the dining room’ in Arabic, blends the traditional Levantine flavours from Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Palestine.
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Starwood and Abu Dhabi Sign MoU
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tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide in Abu Dhabi signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), to join the organisation’s Khibrati programme. The initiative is designed to encourage nationalisation of careers in the hotel sector by providing undergraduate students opportunities within the tourism industry through training and part-time positions. Stuart Thomson, regional director, human resources, Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, said, “We will be working alongside TCA to put together a programme plan that would best suit undergraduate students during their fulltime studies. Specially tailored part time jobs are being developed aimed at yielding rich experiences for the participants.”
now. . k u o y Did me ram El Faro restaurant
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Salalah Rotana Resort Celebrates First Anniversary
on prog The menced d will n com 2th a ar, ye ch 1 Mar on for a up for is go re it ? whe enewal r
Salalah Rotana Resort
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alalah Rotana Resort has welcomed over 200,000 visitors to its recreation facilities, since opening its doors in March 2014. Of this, 130,000 travellers, representing more than 100 nationalities, checked into the resort. Since the launch, Salalah Rotana Resort expanded to include a new restaurant, a 250-seat private outdoor amphitheatre, a third temperature-controlled swimming pool, Jacuzzi and a beach café. “It is rare that a resort of this size extends its hospitality offering within its opening year but it was a necessary step towards better catering to a rise in the number of tourists and tailoring services to their requirements,” said Greg Allan, area vice president, Rotana.
4 APRIL 2015
ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS
Promoting Saudi Tourism
Millennium & Copthorne Debuts New Brand
Millennium Executive Apartments, Muscat
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njum Hotel Makkah participated as a partner at the eighth edition of the Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market (STTIM), which was held from March 29 – April 3, at Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event served as a strategic platform that looked towards providing participants with direct and quick-access to decision-makers in the Saudi tourism segment. During the programme, the Saudi hospitality brand put the spotlight on its current offering of its flagship hotel, Anjum Hotel Makkah, with its 1,743 rooms and suites to potential business partners like travel agencies, tourism organisations and government-based tourism bodies. Only opened recently, the hotel is fast gaining a reputation for providing clients and guests with worldclass services and facilities during their stay.
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illennium & Copthorne Middle East and Africa (MEA) has opened Millennium Executive Apartments in Muscat, marking the brand’s global launch. Located in the Al Khuwair area of the city, the 115-unit property boasts direct access to Muscat Grand Mall and guests can also take advantage of a health club and swimming pool, food and beverage outlets as well as a board room. Ali Hamad Lakhraim Alzaabi, president, Millennium & Copthorne MEA, described the Omani capital as a key market with lots of potential. Following the launch of the company’s first property in Muscat, the Grand Millennium and Copthorne brands are set to debut in the city later this year.
Bernard Fantoli (left), and Mohamed Awadalla, CEO, TIME Hotels
TIME Promotes Sustainable Dining
4 APRIL 2015
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n line with its sustainability drive, TIME Hotels has launched a Slow Food Initiative at its flagship TIME Oak Hotel & Suites in Dubai. Since its inception in 1986, the international movement has gathered a large number of supporters who are committed to sourcing and using food that is produced and prepared as per local culinary traditions. “We are the first hotel in the region to introduce the concept into our mainstream food and beverage offering,” pinpointed Bernard Fantoli, corporate director, food and beverage, TIME Hotels, reinforcing the company’s commitment to support sustainable practices and local products.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
QATAR AIRWAYS CONTINUES AFRICAN EXPANSION Effective July 1, Qatar Airways will launch flights to Zanzibar, the airline’s third gateway in Tanzania after Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro.
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he new five-times-a-week services will operate via Kilimanjaro, while the current Kilimanjaro flights which today are served by Qatar Airways via Dar es Salaam will be made nonstop as of July 1, with return flights from Kilimanjaro to Doha served via Zanzibar. The carrier’s African expansion has included the announcement of a new destination, namely that of Durban, and increase in flights to Johannesburg which will launch on December 17, and also a boost in frequency to Cape Town from October 1.
Qatar Airways Cargo Expands to LAX
Emirates to Operate to Orlando
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atar Airways Cargo will launch a new twice-weekly Boeing 777 freighter service to Los Angeles on April 4. The addition will provide 100 tonnes of cargo capacity per flight, departing Doha on Wednesdays and Saturdays via Luxembourg and Mexico to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Ulrich Ogiermann, chief officer, cargo, Qatar Airways, said, “With the new destination, we are able to offer our customers capacity and fivestar service into, and out of, this key cargo destination in the US.”
Los Angeles International Airport
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mirates is to launch flights to Orlando, Florida, the carrier’s 10th passenger destination in the US. Starting September 1, the airline will offer daily services to the Sunshine State onboard a Boeing 777200LR with 266 seats. Emirates customers will be also able to connect onto several destinations in the US, the Caribbean and South America through the carrier’s codeshare partner, JetBlue’s regional hub in Orlando. In 2014, Emirates carried over 2.3 million passengers to and from the US with average load factor reaching over 80 percent.
4 APRIL 2015
INTERNATIONAL WEEKLY NEWS
New Raffles Project Introduced in Jakarta
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affles Jakarta launched on March 16, with a soft opening, boasting 173 rooms and suites. The property offers a fine selection of restaurants and bars; The Writers Bar; Arts Café; and Navina, with two more outlets set to open this year. Additionally, the hotel offers the private 2500m2 Dian Ballroom and spaces for business and social celebrations. Later this year, the Signature Raffles Spa will launch with six treatment rooms and there will also be a choice of swimming pools, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a yoga terrace, tennis courts and a jogging track.
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New Choice Hotel Opens in Texas
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hoice Hotels International (CHI) is officially welcoming guests at the new Cambria hotel & suites Plano-Legacy, located just minutes from The Shops at Legacy mall and eleven Fortune 1000 company offices and headquarters. Michael Murphy, senior vice president, upscale brands, CHI, enthused, “This is the only Cambria hotels & suites in the Lone Star State, and we are thrilled to open in such a beautiful city where both business and leisure travel are booming.” Guests have at their disposal 129 rooms, all with separate living, working and sleeping spaces, spa-like bathrooms with walk-in showers and modern amenities such as Media Hub plug-andplay stations.
Jakarta Welcomes BWI Property
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est Western International (BWI) has opened a new hotel in Jakarta, BEST WESTERN PREMIER The Bellevue. Set in an eye-catching 10-storey building, BEST WESTERN PREMIER The Bellevue offers 156 guest rooms and suites, in addition to a swimming pool, steam room, fitness centre, sauna and whirlpool, and a spa. The hotel’s restaurant serves up Asian and Western cuisine, while the stylish bar offers the perfect place to relax. Corporate guests are also well cateredfor, with a business centre and a choice of three meeting rooms able to accommodate between 50 and 250 people.
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Guest room, Raffles Jakarta
4 APRIL 2015
ls, chi fran 00 hote e 3 CHI o , 6 m r than esenting 00 0 r , rep n 500 e US tha , in th s n 35 room ore tha s and e m i and countr s? r e othe erritori t
BEST WESTERN PREMIER The Bellevue
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RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What were the most important steps taken by the management in the past months that have helped boost the bottom line? PETER MANSOURIAN: Dubai continues to gain popularity and [...] strives to always offer its visitors a remarkably memorable experience. At the hotel we support this frame of thought by [providing] guests with five-star hospitality standards that meet and exceed expectations. Business at the hotel was moving in a satisfactory tempo despite the many global changes that were taking place. Our competitive rates accompanied with immaculate facilities for both business and leisure travellers will always be one of our main focus points. The options are endless in the city and we learned to tailor-make our offerings to match those of our guests to ensure they consider us again in the future.
Q & A with
Peter Mansourian GENERAL MANAGER, GRAND MILLENNIUM DUBAI
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What can guests and business partners expect from the hotel in the coming months? PETER MANSOURIAN: Our sales and marketing strategies are dynamic since this is the nature of the business within hospitality. Pricing plans, promotions, offers often are affected by seasonality
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Based on your experience, how has Dubai’s perception changed over the years and how has this change diversified the destination’s source markets? PETER MANSOURIAN: The growth of the aviation industry was an important key factor. Dubai has always been a must stopover destination, it is where east meets west and now it is expected to grow even more as an international destination. The endless attractions, concerts, exhibitions and prominent shows continue to generate more traffic to Dubai and additional business to the hospitality sector. It could possibly also mean that more hotel rooms will be created in the market and hence stronger competition will emerge which we will need to take into consideration. We have already witnessed the increase in interest and diversification since the announcement of Expo 2020. This had a strong impact in stirring more hotels to go ahead with their plans of operating in Dubai.
this stage that both demand and supply is expected to grow and the city will continue to gain its touristic strength, which in simple words is a positive curve for everyone. Hospitality in specific will need to adjust and adapt to this shift, possibly by creating more attractive packages, adding more unique value and offering guests immaculate services. One of our recent additions was to offer all of our in-house guests and diners’ complimentary Wi-Fi during their stay as this is becoming an essential decision factor for many hotel guests.
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THE ENDLESS ATTRACTIONS [...] AND PROMINENT SHOWS CONTINUE TO GENERATE MORE TRAFFIC TO DUBAI DUBAI’S TRANSFORMATION INTO A BUCKET LIST DESTINATION HAS BROUGHT VARIOUS BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES FOR THE EMIRATE’S HOTELIERS. PETER MANSOURIAN, GENERAL MANAGER, GRAND MILLENNIUM DUBAI, TALKS ABOUT THE CITY’S CHANGING FACE AND HOTEL SCENE.
and more recently by external factors whether it is economic or political. We are closely looking on adapting various strategies to increase both our online and MICE segments through also partnering up with MICE tour operators and travel agents to further promote our meeting and conference facilities which enjoy state of the art technologies.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: The government has brought in new legislations to ease the procedure of setting up new accommodation establishments. How this initiative will change Dubai’s hotel scene and affect your business? PETER MANSOURIAN: It is possibly a little early to confirm exactly what will be happening but it is safe to say at
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Grand Millennium Dubai
4 APRIL 2015
AGENT CORNER
Agent’s Insight NAME:
Mohamed Abdelwahab
POSITION:
Manager
COMPANY:
Raidan Travel & Tours
LOCATION:
Sudan
WEBSITE:
www.raidantravel.com
Ninoy Aquino International Airport
dnata Opens Exclusive Lounge at Manila Airport
Who are you? My name is Ahmed Mohamed Abdelwahab and I am 58 years old. I am the owner and the general manager for a travel agency which was established in 2004 concentrating on incoming tours to Sudan. Raidan Travel & Tours is one of the leading tour operators in Sudan, if not the first, for tourist business with a wide deal mainly from Europe, Far East, the US and others. Our agency is located at the centre of Khartoum and has a good reputation amongst tour operators and individuals for our tour handling. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? To be in connection with a number of visitors from different cultures, I can learn from other people who visit us, it is essential for me to satisfy the clients. When is the best time to visit Sudan? November through April. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? To the Canary Islands. Why should people come to you for travel advice? For my knowledge, reasonable prices and I think they feel we are friendly people. Which is the percentage of MENA travellers your agency welcomes annually? Around 10 percent. 4 APRIL 2015
d
nata has strengthened its commitment to the Philippines with the opening of a new lounge at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Open 24-hours a day, the lounge will welcome the premium passengers of customer airline, Emirates, as well as bank premium cardholders. “The Philippines is important to dnata’s growth strategy,” said Gary Chapman, president, dnata. “There is considerable potential in the region, with its strong commitment to tourism and services – two industries dnata has deep experience in. I expect the relationship between dnata and the Philippines to continue to grow, just as it has since 1998,” he further added.
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TRAVEL TALK
The Sultanate [of Oman] is a key market for Air Arabia
ADEL ALI Group CEO, Air Arabia
CEDRIC GAILLARD General manager, Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi Downtown
“Air Arabia is proud to have played a role in making it easier and more convenient for many more international passengers to visit [Oman], this magical tourist destination on the shores of the Arabian Sea. The Sultanate is a key market for Air Arabia and we continue to increase flight frequencies and onward connections to provide ever greater levels of convenience to our customers flying to and from Oman.”
Our team is constantly striving to ensure memorable moments
ANTHONY TYLER General manager, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre
“Our success at these multiple awards [such as the SABQ Tourism Awards, LiveWire’s Innovation & Excellence Awards and TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice awards] is an outstanding affirmation of the trust our guests place in our services. Winning them so early on in the year will serve as great motivation for us to continue raising the bar in being the top choice for both luxury and business travellers from around the world. Our team is constantly striving to ensure memorable moments for our guests [...].”
The authenticity of each emirate is remarkable
We are pleased to work with Universal Pictures
“The tourism industry’s impact on the UAE’s economy will only grow in a variety of areas. The country’s vision clearly communicates a need for a shift from the oil and gas industry ruled market to an economic diversification with various tourism projects, such as Saadiyat Island and Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, as well as Etihad Rail and expansion of airports and ports. [All the emirates operating under the same rules and regulations] would boost the tourism between the emirates and increase the average length of stay in the country. The authenticity of each emirate is remarkable [...].”
“Etihad Airways is one of the fastest-growing airlines in the world with a strong history of culture and innovation and a commitment to reimagining the travel experience for our guests. We are pleased to work together with Universal Pictures, an organisation which shares that same spirit of innovation and reimagination when it comes to the world of entertainment, to unveil our newly-decaled Boeing 777 aircraft in support of the Fast & Furious franchise, and Furious 7 which premieres [in April] and highlights our airline’s home of Abu Dhabi.”
PETER BAUMGARTNER Chief commercial officer, Etihad Airways
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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4 APRIL 2015
TRAVEL CHANNELS
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha Celebrates French Gastronomy The Ritz-Carlton, Doha’s La Mer Restaurant participated in Goût de France, the global celebration of French Gastronomy, to mark the beginning of spring.
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s William Khala, chef de cuisine, La Mer Restaurant, noted, the event allowed the team to present the RitzCarlton service and some of the world’s best gastronomy creations, setting the stage for new prominences of high-end cuisine. The Goût de France celebrates French gastronomy in various locations worldwide with some 1,000 chefs participating annually.
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha
RJ Puts Passenger Safety First
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n March 16, Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) diverted flight RJ 264, a Boeing 787 from Chicago to Amman, four hours after its departure; landing at Montreal to provide first aid to a passenger. The 70-year-old Jordanian female passenger suddenly felt extreme fatigue during the flight, which made the captain request permission to land at the nearest airport to offer her treatment as quickly as possible. RJ aims to ensure the comfort and safety of passengers, which is a priority for the airline despite the high cost incurred in case of emergency landings, due to additional fuel consumption and the airport landing and take-off fees and over flying charges.
The Importance of World-Class Guest Experiences
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roviding unrivalled guest experiences through innovative and thorough destination management should be the priority of every entertainment developer. This was the message Dubai Parks and Resorts – set to be the region’s largest multi-themed leisure and entertainment destination when it opens in October 2016 – underscored during the annual International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) leadership conference, held for the first time in the Middle East this year. Matthew Priddy, chief technical officer, Dubai Parks and Resorts, said, “Dubai Parks and Resorts is built on the belief that every aspect of the park – from the construction, through to the attractions and the additional offerings such as dining have been thoroughly considered since the very start of the project to ensure maximum customer satisfaction.”
Motion Gate at Dubai Parks and Resorts
4 APRIL 2015
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WHO’S MOVED
YASSER MOUSSA
JOHN FRIEL
Yasser Moussa has assumed the position of executive assistant manager of sales and business development at Al Bustan Centre & Residence. As a key member of the management team, Moussa will continue to oversee the operation of the property and execute its revenue targets and strategic goals. He will be in charge of leading the sales and marketing, business development and revenue departments, and overseeing all revenue-generated components. His wide experience and success over the past 17 years are set to further contribute to the growth of the hotels. Over the years, Moussa has built an extensive network with tour operators and travel agencies both locally and internationally.
John Friel has been appointed general manager in South Africa at Etihad Airways. Based in Johannesburg, Friel will be in charge of leading the carrier’s commercial operations in the African country. A 16-year veteran in the travel sector, Friel has a strong understanding of managing the challenges and opportunities within the industry. Over the years, he has worked for a number of leading international airlines and worked closely with the tourism industry and across the aviation and travel trade, both in South Africa and abroad. He joined Etihad Airways in June 2014 as regional business development manager in South Africa.
Friel has served many leading airlines
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NATHALIE COCKAYNE
Nathalie Cockayne is now part of the Zaya Nurai Islandfamily where she will continue as hotel manager. Having worked in the industry for over 15 years, Cockayne brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. Over the years, she had the chance to work with leading hotel chains and properties, including InterContinental Hotels Group, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Dubai’s Burj Al Arab and more. With Cockayne’s appointment, the property now has a full executive team on board.
Cockayne has worked in the industry for over 15 years
IBRAHIM NASHAAT
Ibrahim Nashaat has been promoted from hotel manager at InterContinental Cairo Citystars to general manager at Holiday Inn Cairo Citystars. Combining his focussed leadership with a passion for excellence and an understanding of the needs of guests, he will be responsible for strategic decision-making and for effectively positioning the hotel both locally and regionally. Nashaat brings with him over 25 years of experience. He joined InterContinental Hotels Group at InterContinental Cairo Semiramis in 1988 and later moved to InterContinental Cairo Citystars from where he served as area director of information technology for Egypt.
Nashaat will be responsible for strategic decision-making
4 APRIL 2015
PHOTO ALBUM
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Abu Dhabi International Airport was voted the best airport staff in the Middle East for the third year at Skytrax Awards
Mother’s Day art exhibition at Ramada Ajman Hotel & Suites
Gulfood's 20th anniversary edition proved to be the biggest one in the show's history
4 APRIL 2015
Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism Authority announced the sixth Qatar International Food Festival
Etihad Airways launched its new global brand campaign which was attended by Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman
#proudparalympians was launched during the 6th Fazza IPC Powerlifting World Cup in Dubai, at Al Bustan Centre & Residence
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NEWS & EVENTS Dubai Maritime Day Launched
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n line with the Dubai Strategic Plan, aimed at supporting and stimulating all aspects of maritime trade and economy, Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA), announced the Dubai Maritime Day initiative. Taking place this November, the event will celebrate the recent achievements of the emirate’s maritime sector and provide support to various government and non-government entities. Dubai Maritime Day will feature a host of events s on the sector’s various aspects and the emirate’s accomplishments over the past years. It will give a special emphasis on DMCA’s present and future initiatives such as Dubai’s Maritime Sector Strategy and Emirates Maritime Arbitration Centre.
EVENTS RIYADH TRAVEL FAIR Riyadh, Saudi Arabia April 14 – 17 www.riyadhtravel.net Held since 2009, in 2014 the event witnessed a strong increase of 18 percent in the number of exhibitors compared to 2013.
WORLD TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA
Qatar Airways Hosts oneworld Conference
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atar Airways hosted the first ever oneworld Operations Control Conference in Doha, Qatar, on March 11 and 12. The conference was attended by representatives from a majority of the oneworld airlines and the company’s executive team. The meeting provided a forum in which airport operations professionals could further develop their relationships and synergies with their peers, share their professional experience, gain knowledge, learn best practices and implement measures in driving costs down, and efficiencies up. During the two-day event oneworld representatives discussed a wide range of topics related to the day-to-day management of their respective airlines including operations control structures and stakeholders, introduction of new fleet types, airline security and disruption recovery.
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Cape Town, South Africa April 15 – 17 www.wtmafrica.com It creates personal and business opportunities providing customers with quality contacts, content and communities.
KAZAKHSTAN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM & TRAVEL FAIR Almaty, Kazakhstan April 22 – 24 www.kitf.kz A major tourism forum in Central Asia presenting resorts, upscale hotels and convenient air connections.
ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Dubai, UAE May 04 – 07 www.arabiantravelmarket.com Over the past 21 years, Arabian Travel Market has provided a place to do face-to-face business with companies from around the globe and this year’s edition promises to be larger than ever.
4 APRIL 2015