APRIL 2017 - ISSUE 90
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04
EXCLUSIVE
Sports Tourism
ONSITE: AJMAN
VISIT
06 EXPLORE: SHARJAH
09 Abu Dhabi
& Al Ain 18 Who’s Moved 19 Rendezvous
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
Dubai International Celebrated Record January
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel JOURNALISTS Ellen Petty
Maria Sabova CONTRIBUTORS
Panayiotis Karanicholas Anna Spyrou Dominique Christou
Dubai International
SALES & SALES SUPPORT Magda Christou DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi
Dubai International (DXB) began this year in top gear as traffic in January reached an all-time high of eight million passengers, as revealed by Dubai Airports.
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assenger traffic rose 9.7 percent to 8,037,008 during the month under review, an increase from 7,327,637 in January 2016. The figure followed the hub’s overall performance in 2016, during which the airport had welcomed a record 83.6 million passengers. Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports, enthused, “It is an auspicious start to what is sure to be another record-breaking year for [the airport]. It provides further impetus to our DXB Plus Programme, which will enhance service and boost capacity by applying technology to improved processes […].”
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Terminal project, Queen Alia International Airport
Positive Outlook for Queen Alia Airport
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Airport International Group revealed January passenger figures for Queen Alia International Airport, recording a 1.6 percent rise over the same month in 2016.
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uring the month under review, the Jordanian hub welcomed 576,912 passengers, compared to 567,823 arrivals in January 2016. “We maintain a positive outlook for the current year, particularly in light of 2016 inauguration of the second phase of the new terminal project, which increased the airport’s annual passenger capacity to up to 12 million and added more gates and cutting-edge facilities that will enhance passenger experience. We also look forward to implementing a new strategy that aims at attracting new airlines […],” said, Kjeld Binger, group CEO, Airport International Group.
APRIL 2017
ONSITE AJMAN
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Ajman, a Catalyst of Sustainable
Tourism
SHAPING THE NEAR FUTURE OF THE EMIRATE, AJMAN 2021 STRATEGIC AGENDA REVEALS THE REGION’S STRONG ORIENTATION ON BUILDING A GREEN ECONOMY. WE LOOK AT HOW THE SMALL EMIRATE EXEMPLIFIES BIG TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY INITIATIVES CONTRIBUTING TO THIS VISION AND GLOBAL TOURISM SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.
MARIA SABOVA WRITES
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orld Tourism Organization (UNWTO) declared this year as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, emphasising an important role of tourism as a contributor towards global sustainability. One of the key areas where tourism has the potential to create a significant positive impact is in resource efficiency and environmental protection, in which UNWTO encourages all industry stakeholders to join its forces, cooperate and contribute in raising awareness. In line with this global shift towards sustainability, the Ajman tourism and hospitality sector is taking innovative steps towards preserving the emirate for future generations and setting an example of how environmental awareness along with efficient cooperation result in a common extra effort to encourage balanced development. AWARENESS BRINGS ACTIONS
AJMAN IN BRIEF Country: UAE Currency: Emirati Dirham (AED) Language: Arabic Population: 262,186 Calling Code: +971 6 Capital Time Zone: GMT+4:00 Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman, urban organic farm
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Ajman’s hospitality leaders are well aware of the impact of hotels operations on the environment and the difference they can make when managing their businesses with sustainability as a priority. Francis Desjardins, general manager, Fairmont Ajman, defined sustainability in tourism as a pursuance of progress without compromising the fundamental needs of future generations, where the hotels’ commitment to the earth is crucial. Demonstrating awareness and a necessity to take actions, Iftikhar Hamdani, cluster general manager, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman, and Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman, elaborated, “The tourism and hospitality industries generate a huge carbon footprint, a sizeable amount of waste and energy consumption daily, thus it is crucial for our industries to lead the green revolution.” Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) holds sustainability as a pillar for its overall strategy and aims at developing and promoting environmentallyfriendly hotel management practices, as Yamina Aoucher, director, tourism development and marketing, Ajman Tourism Development Department, described and further revealed, “Current carbon dioxide emissions stand at approximately 35kg per guest, being a global average in the hotel industry. We target to achieve much lower production and eventually deliver an example in terms of the lowest emissions per guest.” Additionally, water scarcity represents a major challenge that the region is facing along with waste production, according to Aoucher. On one hand, a rapid tourism expansion in Ajman is positive, where at the same time it translates to potentially higher level of waste produced by hotels, from food wastage to energy consumption, as Desjardins also stressed. Kefah Abraham, general manager, EWAN Ajman Suites Hotel, added another point, “Despite years of conserva-
APRIL 2017
ONSITE AJMAN
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shift towards sustainability. With a motto Together For Difference, Kushwaha highlighted the role of the hotel’s green committee which supervises and facilitates correct environmental conduct within the property, focussed mainly on reducing energy waste. Adding to the trend of an in-house green supervising body, which seems to be emerging among Ajman’s hospitality providers, Desjardins, also mentioned, “To keep us on track towards achieving sustainability goals, we have appointed a sustainability committee, represented by colleagues from each department, who create and implement the best practices for conserving energy and reducing waste and water consumption.” SUSTAINABILITY HAND-IN-HAND WITH PROFITABILITY
Beach clean-up day by Fairmont Ajman
tion efforts, hotels’ energy and resource consumption is still considerable, however, this also opens the way for further sustainability efforts which have a double benefit of saving money and preserving the environment.” With a strong sense of responsibility towards the surroundings and society, a successful business is underlined by both profitability and sustainability, where it must firstly give to receive back, hence never forgetting the impact on the environment, indicated, Basant Kushwaha, director, engineering, Kempinski Hotel Ajman. TOGETHER FOR DIFFERENCE
The hospitality stakeholders collectively agreed that ATDD actively supports the sector in pursuing green initiatives and encourages the hotels’ involvement in various programmes, leading to a fruitful mutual cooperation. Aoucher, explained, “The tourism sector is well positioned to positively impact both the environment and benefit local communities, economically and socially through incorporating sustainability. […] It is our vision that the tourism companies operating within the emirate should also develop a sense of liability and responsibility for managing and preserving the rich heritage of Ajman, [including] natural resources which are limited in supply and their elevated footfall leads to rapid depletion of such precious resources [on a global level],” adding that it is henceforth the responsibility of all bodies of the sector to work collaboratively to achieve sustainable growth. As examples of mutual initiatives with ATDD, Hamdani described a project of recyclable materials collection and Kushwaha recalled a large-scale clean-up event at the recently opened Ajman Marina, which gathered hoteliers, department heads and staff working as a team for long hours to achieve accumulation of more than two tonnes of rubbish. Desjardins, while emphasising the importance of close cooperation with ATDD, also mentioned teaming-up with the Ajman Centre of Corporate Social Responsibility, leading to such events as beach or desert clean-up days, where the local authorities, the hotel’s guests and community members participated. As a tourism department responsible for consistency of environmentallyfriendly business conduct across the sector, ATDD also cooperated with Emirate Green Building Council to ensure that the ATDD employees along with Ajman hotels’ staff received adequate training to be able to implement and maintain green principles within their working environment, as Aoucher revealed. The joint efforts are complemented by various ongoing staff training programmes and workshops provided by hotels in-house, which are simultaneously taken further. Hamdani exemplified the pioneer initiatives of the company’s representatives who take part in various forums and conferences to share the hotel’s green practices with fellow partners, inspiring them and other organisations to APRIL 2017
Ajman’s hospitality experts have not only realised the pivotal role of sustainability in corporate social responsibility strategy but also as a source of balanced, longterm growth. As a result, the hotels apply numerous ecological and environmentally-friendly measures to secure both, sustainability and profitability. Environmental awareness has led to extra sustainability efforts, with creativity and the latest technology appear to have become an effective mix of ingredients in the hands of Ajman’s hoteliers. Desjardins listed the energy saving practices at the hotel’s premises, such as switching off steam boilers at night, setting cooler temperatures at a controlled sequence, switching off lights in the empty areas, with future investment plans to obtain motion sensors, grey water treatment systems and fully applied LED lighting. Kushwaha, while confirming that sustainability is not only a social awareness responsibility but also a profit-generating strategy, exemplifies that the use of recycled water in irrigation saves almost AED3,135 (USD853.5) per day thanks to the sewage treatment plant; daily savings up to AED576 (USD156.8) in diesel consumption are achieved with solar water heating system; the replacement of 850 units of classic light bulbs with LED save the property on average AED292.4 (USD79.6) daily or further cost reduction of AED1,125 (USD306.3) monthly is reached through creating more space in rubbish containers by using a cardboard compacting machine for processing the carton boxes. A SMALL EMIRATE WITH BIG GREEN POTENTIAL Considering the implementation of sustainable strategies within the industry in the years to come, Desjardins lists recycling of all materials, turning food waste into compost, buying in bulk to avoid wastage and sustainable purchasing as some of the important practices to adopt or improve by hoteliers. Adding to the vision of elevating the emirate’s green status in the near future, Aoucher unveiled the idea of sustainable agriculture as a solution towards achieving equilibrium in terms of culture, growth and social dynamics, which will help to deliver greater value to the society while preserving the environment. Abraham expressed that Ajman has the potential to become a green tourism leader amongst all emirates through setting the industry’s benchmark thanks to ATDD’s support, and willingness of the hotels to go an extra mile in their efforts. He also identified that the industry’s goal to control costs through sustainable practices generate an additional interest from guests, who often address and question the hotels’ impacts on the environment. Ajman represents a non-conventional destination with the potential to appeal to ecologically-conscious travellers seeking not only leisure, but sustainable travelling and therefore appreciating the emirate’s green economy orientation, demonstrated by environmentally-friendly efforts in the tourism sector. As Desjardins enthused, “The beauty of Ajman is that, being the smallest emirate, it is easier to impact and come together as a community in an active environmental movement. Canvassing for each and everyone’s support towards the preservation of natural resources and adherence to social values will definitely help the destination to be amongst the leading emirates in driving sustainable and eco-tourism.”
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EXPLORE SHARJAH
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When Travelling Becomes a
Family Matter HAILED AS AN EMIRATE RICH IN HERITAGE AND EMBRACED IN CULTURAL PROJECTS, SHARJAH CONTINUES TO POSITION ITSELF AS A HUB OFFERING A PLETHORA OF RETAIL, LEISURE AND CULINARY PURSUITS, WATERSPORTS AND OTHER ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES GEARED TO CATER TO THE MOST DEMANDING TRAVELLING FAMILIES.
PANAYIOTIS KARANICHOLAS WRITES
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n a bid to lure families to the emirate, H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), emphasised, “Families have been a major market segment for us and has continued to be the core of our market stratergy. We recognise that Sharjah is a perfect destination for people travelling as a family unit due to its safety and good positioning in terms of economic value. There is also so much to do for families, the 22 museums and other attractions offer edutainment opportunities not found in other locations.” Affirming this, Alper Can Bulcum, cluster general manager, Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach and Ramada Sharjah, explained, “There are numerous attractions in Sharjah that are ideal for family visits, be it educational or entertainment. The emirate revives history in a modern context, with a combination of art and science museums, amusement and water parks, aquariums, restaurants and cafes, retail outlets as well as traditional and contemporary markets.” He went on to say that with the launch of the Sharjah My Family Destination and Sharjah Tourism Vision 2021, several ecotourism, heritage and cultural projects are now in motion. In light of these campaigns, Wassim Nehme, hotel manager, Beach Hotel, Sharjah, added that tour operators are also stepping up efforts to boost tourism within to emirate by offering bespoke packages to attract families in visiting Sharjah. Moreover, Rabih Zein, general manager, Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah, pinpointed, “Sharjah has a number of recreational areas especially for families and boasts over 50 attractive landscaped parks, such as Al Montazah park, National park, Fun Park, and Al Buheirah Corniche, where anyone can enjoy a stroll and escape from the bustle of the city. The emirate is also notable for its numerous elegant mosques.” He further stated that Sharjah is a venue for different national and international festivals, and as a unique selling point, all the festivals and events in the emirate are designed with a central focal point being families.” Agreeing, Ghassan Farhat, manager, TIME Ruby Hotel Apartments, commented, “A lot of family attractions were added to Sharjah as a family oriented destination, such as upgrading Sharjah Al Majaz water front, upgrading Al
University City Hall, Sharjah Light Festival 2017
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EXPLORE SHARJAH
FAMILY IS WHERE THE HEART IS
SHARJAH IN BRIEF Country: UAE Currency: Emirati Dirham (AED)
“In April 2016, SCTDA launched Sharjah My Family Destination. The campaign, which aimed to introduce new tourism offers and packages for families visiting Sharjah, was a clear testament to the emirate’s commitment to families as a core pillar of its tourism strategy,” indicated Al Midfa. Further commenting, Divyesh Kumar, manager, inbound, Orient Tours, clarified, “As we see, family tourism is predicted to grow at a faster rate than all other forms of leisure travel, partly because it represents a way to reunite the family and for family members to spend time with each other.” Kumar added that Sharjah is a destination that has packaged which include
Language: Arabic Population: 1.1 million Calling Code: +9716 Capital Time Zone: GMT +4:00
Muntazah water park, maintaining activities like Sharjah Light Festival, and Sharjah Food Festival and other activities in Al Qasba area, Sharjah’s main family attraction.” Adding, Michael Kasch, general manager, Centro Sharjah Hotel by Rotana, mentioned, “The Sharjah tourism board is in close contact with the main stakeholders of the tourism industry, with whom there is a strong bond. We hold regular meetings to discuss plans and projects to ensure that these are taken forward with full support and are indeed the right promotions needed to push the family tourism forward.” PLAYING YOUR CARDS RIGHT Many tourism professionals make this niche market a priority when considering its long-established roots, therefore acknowledging the essence of the destination coupled with the urge to attend to desires of travellers, give professionals the upper-hand in family tourism. Kasch, enthused, “We have a wide variety of guests from all over the world […], however our strongest guest base is from UAE itself and other GCC countries.” In agreement, Al Midfa, divulged, “The GCC continues to dominate the list of Sharjah’s source regions for the tourism sector, sending 450,388 visitors to the emirate in 2016, which amounts to a 25 percent of all inbound traffic. Asia meanwhile, was the second largest source region with 404,960 visitors in 2016, accounting for 23 percent of all visitors to the emirate for the respective year.”
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all the components for family requirements such as leisure, entertainment, shopping, education, adventure and comfort. Bulcum explained that apart from fully equipped suites with kitchens, laundry rooms and other amenities the property benefits from the convenience of Sahara Mall, which is connected by a footbridge to Ramada Sharjah, and home to Adventureland, one of the leading and biggest indoor theme parks in the UAE, offering numerous other entertainment options for all ages. Also, Nehme, enthused, “We have started customising our occupants’ policy with our partners, travel agents and tour operators, and we offer attractive family packages to our guests […].” Kasch, agreed, “We work together with the museum and events department in Sharjah and have created some fun family weekends where guests can book a package that comes with a variety of activities to choose from.” Whilst, Zein, further commented, “We have been focussing on providing a dedicated platform and amenities for kids, emphasising more on physical, creative and activities related to nature.” He noted that Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah, provides facilities ranging from kids’ pools, a variety of meals for children, big accommodation rooms for families, a Friday itinerary boasting of a family lunch with activities for children, along with a children’s beach play area is also available. STANDING OUT FROM THE CROWD The reason why the emirate is able to cater to an array of family orientated travellers, according to Kumar, is the fact that Sharjah is centrally located with the ease of good road access to neighbouring emirates, good connectivity via Sharjah International Airport, along with reasonably priced attractions and hotels. Kasch, elaborated, “Sharjah is safe and friendly, it has something for everyone and activities to match each budget too, with many hotels to choose from, a beautiful Cornish to walk, water fountains, water parks, butterfly parks, museums and Meliha for adventure, [the region is set to please many families who travel here].” Furthermore, Zein, added, “Sharjah is the ideal holiday destination for families because it is one of the safest places in the world with beautiful beaches and cultural areas to enjoy with your children.” He explained that Sharjah is ready to
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
Sharjah Buhairah Corniche
welcome families because tourism professionals have built some attractions specifically for this market. Farhat, also clarified that the Al Qasba area which is a Sharjah landmark now, has a lot of activities throughout the seasons, during week days or weekends which can be very appealing for family getaways in Sharjah. GOING FORWARD The future looks bright for Sharjah, whilst hoteliers and tourism officials continue to strive in bringing the best out of this family destination which is rich in heritage. Adding, Kasch commented, “We are always looking for new interesting things to do
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and products to launch. Our packages are very much linked to the Sharjah tourism department plans as we go hand in hand.” Whilst, Farhat, stated, “The main contributor to keep up the story of success is the consistency to implement Sharjah activity annual calendar and the deep belief that Sharjah is the safest place for a family to travel to regardless of the age.” Al Midfa, concluded, “Sharjah will spend the next few years focussing on its natural assets. The emirate has placed large areas under environmental protective measures and the authority has committed to promoting the opportunities available for outdoor tourism. [...] “Sharjah can promise all families an excellent experience.” APRIL 2017
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Agenda DESPITE ITS STRONG EMPHASIS ON MICE IN RECENT YEARS, THE TOURISM INDUSTRY IN ABU DHABI WAS NOT IMMUNE TO THE CHALLENGES OF 2016. HOWEVER, WITH A STELLAR LINE-UP OF EVENTS PLANNED, THE EMIRATE IS PULLING OUT ALL THE STOPS TO REAFFIRM ITS POSITION AS THE LEADING MICE DESTINATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST.
APRIL 2017
Marriott Hotel & Marriott Executive Apartments Downtown Abu Dhabi
Top of the
ELLEN PETTY WRITES
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bu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) revealed that in 2016, the emirate was lauded as the fastest-growing destination in the Middle East for attracting annual conference and associations thanks to the significant efforts of Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau. So much so, that the International Congress and Convention Association placed the capital in 73rd place in terms of cities around the world that attract international associations annually. With successful applications to host 14 conferences, expected to attract more than 35,000 delegates, TCA Abu Dhabi disclosed that 2016 was a record-breaking year in terms of the number of bids won. While this is an indicator of the future for the hospitality industry, with the fruits of this 
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labour yet to be yielded, Abu Dhabi already has an established MICE sector, accounting for a substantial ABU DHABI IN BRIEF number of stays for addresses. Enad Tannous, general manager, Centro Capital Centre and Capital Centre ArCountry: United Arab Emirates jaan by Rotana, enthused, “At Centro Currency: Emirati Dirham (AED) Capital Centre and Capital Centre ArLanguage: Arabic jaan the contribution from MICE busiPopulation: 2.8 million ness was 35 percent and 15 percent, Calling Code: +971 2 respectively for 2016.” Time Zone: GMT +4:00 However, while also noting that between 20 – 30 percent of all guests are attending meetings or conferences, Mathieu van Alphen, general manager, Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, underscored that 2016 saw a decrease in the market. Yet, van Alphen indicataed, “Abu Dhabi is emerging as destination of choice, thanks to its premium air and ground transport services, excellent selection of lodging choices, the ever-growing culinary landscape, and superior amenities such as Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), Saadiyat Island, and Yas Island.” Corroborating the view that 2016 was more of a challenge than 2015, Amina Maifi, public relations and marketing manager, Mecure Abu Dhabi Centre Hotel, ascribed this to both the oil and gas recession and the huge influx of new hotels in recent times, thus creating increased competition amongst hoteliers, driving down revenue. Overall, in 2016, the number of guest arrivals across the destination jumped eight percent, according to TCA Abu Dhabi’s Monthly Hotel Establishments Report. Nevertheless, all other parameters saw declines, including number of guest nights, average length of stay and occupancy, down two percent, nine percent and three percent, respectively, over 2015. Ultimately, hotels suffered with total revenue plummeting nine percent. In contrast to the emirate-wide trend and boasting what is hailed as one of the largest conference centres in Abu Dhabi, as well as 13 meeting rooms, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers has welcomed an exceptionally positive year in terms of MICE. Demeiter Vaubell, marketing communications manager, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, recounted a 10 percent year-on-year surge in terms of room nights for MICE events in 2016, and a 17 percent jump in groups business. With a focus on providing personalised services with experienced meeting planners, along with targeting emerging source markets and participating in exhibitions and road shows, the property’s confidence in the sector is clear. Despite having only opened in September 2016, David Lance, general manager, Marriott Hotel Downtown, Abu Dhabi and Marriott Executive Apartments Downtown Abu Dhabi, illustrated that the property has already hosted momentous and diverse events. As well as receiving more than 300 participants of the Travel Agents Association of India in October 2016, Lance added, “In November 2016, the hotel [hosted] the first annual women’s professional golf tournament to be staged in Abu Dhabi ever – the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Open.”
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Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi
WELL CONNECTED Considering its strategic geographical location, it is no wonder that Abu Dhabi is set to play host to such a varied, global calendar of events, from Special Olympics in 2019 to the 18th Ottawa Conference on Medical Education in 2018, among many others. While pinpointing that the emirate is a central hub for international meetings with delegates primarily hailing from Europe and Asia, Vaubell also underscored the increase in worldwide flight connections as vital in facilitating the burgeoning MICE sector. The main ally to Abu Dhabi’s remarkable connectivity is Etihad Airways. The immense value of the airline is clearly demonstrated by the fact that in 2016, it carried more than 76 percent of all passengers to and from Abu Dhabi International Airport, a figure which rises to 86 percent when including equity partners, as outlined by James Hogan, CEO, Etihad Aviation Group. As well as transporting the lion’s share of travellers to Abu Dhabi, Etihad Aviation Group, formed in May 2016, also encompasses Hala Abu Dhabi, the destination management company and professional conference organiser specialist arm of the group. Demonstrating its commitment to enhancing Abu Dhabi’s MICE sector, Hogan revealed that the division designs, manages and delivers corporate and government conferences. Specialising in innovative events, Hala Abu Dhabi is able to leverage all the services and stakeholders within Etihad Airways and the city APRIL 2017
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Marriott Hotel & Marriott Executive Apartments Downtown Abu Dhabi
itself, which Hogan described as one of the newest and most exciting destinations. A MYRIAD OF VENUES Nevertheless, the capital’s location alone is not enough to attract world-class events and conferences. The vast array of state-of-the-art venues and facilities provide the foundation for any occasion, and is the answer as to why so many organisers choose the destination. From ADNEC to Al Ain Convention Centre and the wealth of event spaces throughout the emirate, as Awj Khalil, senior manager, sales and operations, Safar Travel & Tourism, distinguished, “The diversity of venues and facilities [...] equips it as a destination that can host conferences and big events.”
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All in all, ADNEC is considered to be the zenith of the capital, featuring no less than 12 customisable exhibition halls covering an area of 13.3ha, along with the International Convention Centre at ADNEC, 20 meeting rooms and events services. Commenting on what is hailed as one of the largest exhibition centre in the Middle East, van Alphen elucidated, “Certainly key to Abu Dhabi’s MICE success is ADNEC. It is attracting more and more events annually from across the globe, across a spectrum of industries and interests.” Dafer Damaj, revenue manager, Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi, elaborated that it is not just the emirate’s facilities, but its service that sets it apart from competition, making it one of the top destinations for meetings and congresses. A high level of service is essential, as are stand-out, memorable experiences. Simona Dobre, area director, sales, Abu Dhabi, Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, noted, “We are always looking for new experiences in each hotel to attract
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Capital Gate
the MICE segment, as well as MICE publications. This includes creating tailor-made visits and private events with the option to have 100 percent privacy [with exclusive access to resorts].” Agreeing with the importance of a top quality service, Vaubell also mentioned that the emirate is considered to be excellent value for money. Furthermore, she noted that Abu Dhabi offers a range of cultural experiences and a variety of incentive activities. Indeed, the emirate’s broad range of cultural offerings, encompassing traditional heritage, contemporary arts and events on a global scale, continue to attract visitors. Khalil outlined just a few of the premier happenings as Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Abu Dhabi Food Festival as well as Cityscape Abu Dhabi. This is not to forget the plethora of events hosted in Al Ain on an annual basis, such as Al Ain SME, World Heritage Day and Weddex – The Al Ain Wedding Show. Highlighting the fundamental role that cultural attractions in the wider tourism industry, Agnelo Fernandes, managing director, 1001 Events, in part, attributes a staggering 40 percent year-on-year decline in revenue to the postponed launch of the emirate’s highly anticipated cultural attractions. Fernandes clarified, “One of the reasons that would have led to the slow-down [of business] is the delayed opening of Louvre Abu Dhabi and the rest of the museums.” In summary, van Alphen described an array of perks that make the emirate a win for any organiser. In addition to superlative lodging, price-value point and diverse landscape, he listed the opportunity to combine business and leisure with modernity and ease of transportation. Differentiating the capital from other regional hubs, van Alphen deduced, “Abu Dhabi is big enough to amaze, yet small enough to charm.” GALVANISING INTEREST
Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa Abu Dhabi
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Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi
The progress made by TCA Abu Dhabi is unequivocal, with a broad range of incentives to boost all sectors of tourism, including MICE. In particular, Advantage Abu Dhabi, an Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau programme, is seen as a catalyst in bolstering the emirate’s MICE segment by adding bespoke destination support to business event organisers as well as stimulating business for local suppliers and enhancing the overall experience for delegates. “TCA Abu Dhabi has done a wonderful job exposing our destination opportunities to the MICE buyers and influencers, especially within key target markets such as China, India and Eastern Europe,” enthused van Alphen. Testament to this, Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi has worked alongside TCA Abu Dhabi, with the aim of utilising every possible opportunity to showcase both the property and the city, especially in regards to familiarisation trips. Taking advantage of TCA Abu Dhabi’s activity across the world and success in showcasing its
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product, Maifi noted that Mecure Abu Dhabi Centre Hotel has worked closely with the organisation, following its guidelines and participating in numerous exhibitions under its umbrella. Acknowledging the importance of maintaining ties with ADNEC, exhibitors and event organisers, Tannous said, “We see them as our long drawn partners for success.” He added that through such collaborations, the hotels have been able to truly grasp what different visitors look for. Tannous further outlined that both Centro Capital Centre and Capital Centre Arjaan by Rotana offer various tailor made packages as part of the group’s Business Escapes initiative, which provides guests ample opportunity to unwind after a busy day on the MICE circuit. Moreover, each property features a dedicated team to plan and execute the event from start to finish. Similarly, in an effort to entice MICE organisers to the property, Mahy Noor, events manager, Bab Al Qasr, explained that the address offers complimentary rooms for every 25 paid room nights per night along with room upgrades and commission on room rates as well as food and beverage spend. ADAPTING TO CHANGE Confident that the market will return to healthy levels once the global economy stabilises, van Alphen concluded that this moment in time is nothing other than an opportunity to push and expose the capital for future MICE as well as the chance to think differently and seek business in new areas. Mentioning the need for unique concept events that provide global solutions, Tannous agreed, “Stakeholders in the hospitality industry need to align their strategy with Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 to focus on attracting a wide pool of business travellers to the emirate.” While the addition of rooms is putting pressure on hoteliers, it is also stimulating the industry. Lance summarised, “The number of full service and international branded hotels coming into the marketplace has also made Abu Dhabi more attractive as a MICE destination.” He continued to say that this, and competitive rates are the two decisive factors for MICE buyers. Vaubell expounded that the boost in hotel rooms will enable the capital to host much larger city-wide events, indicating what the future will hold for Abu Dhabi. Even with the spectacular transformation seen in the hospitality industry in the past decade, Lance elucidated, “Abu Dhabi is still in an awareness phase, similar to where Dubai was 10 – 12 years ago.” However, this leaves plenty of room for growth. Explaining that TCA Abu Dhabi is on a mission to enhance its tourism product with Etihad Airways as an invaluable and strategic partner, Lance predicted, “Abu Dhabi will soon be not only the fastest growing MICE destination in the region, but on a global scale.”
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EXCLUSIVE SPORTS TOURISM
Getting into the
Swing of it HAILED AS ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING SEGMENTS, SPORTS TOURISM OFFERS A WEALTH OF OPPORTUNITY ACROSS THE MIDDLE EAST. WHILE THE NUMBER OF LARGE-SCALE EVENTS IS SKYROCKETING IN THE REGION, TRAVELLERS ARE INCREASINGLY INTERESTED IN EXPERIENTIAL ACTIVITIES, THUS PAVING THE WAY FOR A RECREATIONAL SPORTS SEGMENT.
ELLEN PETTY WRITES
A
ccording to World Travel and Tourism Council, sports tourism is a USD600 billion global industry, generating approximately 25 percent of all tourism receipts across the world. In Dubai alone, the economic impact of sports from nonDubai sources stood at around USD670 million, as revealed in Deloitte’s 2015 report, Economic Impact of Sport in Dubai. While the Middle East continues to establish its reputation for hosting sport events, and is developing an extensive calendar of international competitions, with the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup considered the pinnacle, the region is also gaining traction as a reputable destination for recreational and adventure sports activities. More than ever before, tourists are seeking much more than
Oman
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EXCLUSIVE SPORTS TOURISM
sun, sea and relaxation, as proactive, authentic experiences are increasingly vital to any trip. As Mary Ann Roberta, corporate director, marketing and development, Al Nahda Hotels & Resorts, clarified, “The modern travellers, irrespective of age, are interested in participating in high-octane, adrenaline-pumping sports. The mindset of today’s traveller is not just [focussed on] sightseeing, they want exhilarating, exciting action.”
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Dubai
The notable shift in demographics of visitors to the region, from middle-aged couples to a more heterogeneous clientele, has meant a diversification in terms of activities on offer. Dinesh Poojary, general manager, Eihab Travels, described paragliding and paramotoring as the latest addition to Oman’s adventure portfolio. Highlighting the growing potential of such pursuits, he further explained, “Considering the increasing interests in these activities, we expect this to become more popular in the days ahead.” Given the region’s unique topography, it comes as no surprise that Ras Al Khaimah is also placing great importance on its sports tourism sector, with Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), noting, “Sports tourism is a vitally important segment for Ras Al Khaimah [...].” While RAKTDA has successfully hosted a number of world-class sporting events, and aims to enhance its presence in the international sporting arena, Mattar also pinpointed that adventure tourism and wellness are two of its three core pillars in attracting visitors to the emirate. One key achievement in this regard is the launch of Jebel Jais Via Ferrata, what is said to be the region’s first commercial Via Ferrata. Having only opened in November 2016, the first month of operation saw average bookings of 84 percent, which, as stated by Mattar, rose to 94 percent on weekends. In light of the climbing route’s popu-
By RAKTDA
ADVENTURER’S PLAYGROUND
larity, RAKTDA plans to extend the courses later this year as well as launch what is set to become the world’s longest zip line. Along with the increasingly accessible mountains, the region is renowned for its desert-based recreational sports, where visitors can enjoy dune bashing, horseriding excursions and fat biking across sand dunes, to list a few. Thanks to the immense coastline of the region, and the strategic location of many resorts, guests are able to enjoy an extensive range of increasingly sought-after water sports. Thomas Fehlbier, general manager, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, underscored that the property’s island location positions it as a natural choice for recreational and adventure activities, particularly water sports. Fehlbier outlined the wealth of options on offer, including wakeboarding, paddle boarding and scuba diving, as well as more relaxed alternatives such as fishing trips and boat cruises. Not only can travellers enjoy the region’s natural landscape, but the Middle East also features leading facilities for sports not traditionally associated with the region, such as Ski Dubai, as highlighted by Lina Bassam, executive director, wholesale, Nirvana Travel & Tourism, who also mentioned bungee jumping and sky diving as extreme sports options in the UAE, a measure of the assortment of activities available.
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ABOVE PAR Capitalising on the global growing interest in wellness, hotels have developed various initiatives to maximise the experience of those who regard fitness as a priority. Accentuating the address’ 360 degree approach to well-being, Jamie Wendt, director, fitness and wellness, Fairmont The Palm, listed innovations such as PAVIGYM, an interactive LED flooring system, as well as Aquaspin, an underwater cycling class and full moon yoga. Additionally, guests enrolled in Fairmont Fit are presented with sportswear, personalised workouts and mapped runs. In contrast, Eyad Hamed, resident manager, Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort, unveiled that the hotel
EXCLUSIVE SPORTS TOURISM
Musa Al Nammari, director, business development, Mövenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha, explained that the hotel has hosted top European football clubs during winter camps, including Paris Saint-Germain and FC Bayern Munich as well as athletes taking part in a broad range of competitions held in Qatar. As a result of the property’s extensive experience in hosting sportspeople year-round, it is well prepared in anticipating the needs of such guests, including dietary requirements, security and other such services. Since golf was first played in Dubai in the 1970s, its popularity has grown rapidly and now accounts for approximately 25 percent of total expenditure on sport in Dubai, as revealed by Deloitte, a clear indicator of the importance of the segment. Mark Chapleski, president, Troon International, noted that overseas visitors make up between 10 – 12 percent of Dubai’s total golf capacity. In terms of the sport, Chapleski illustrated that along with its accessibility from around the world, the region stands out due to its vast network of courses in close proximity which are connected to major hospitality brands, an ideal blend for attracting international golfers.
has dedicated sports and dive centres, enabling guests to get in touch with nature in Fujairah and experience more interactive holidays. Understanding that even within the sports sector, there are a variety of needs, Christian Jesty, recreation manager, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa, noted that the address boasts a fitness centre for those wanting to stay active, water sports for the more adventurous as well as seven swimming pools for all, with a focus on safety due to the high proportion of families visiting. Meanwhile, located in the heart of Doha’s sport scene, Aspire Zone,
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EXCLUSIVE SPORTS TOURISM
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STEPPING INTO THE GLOBAL ARENA
tion for sports lovers.” Al Nammari corroborated this viewpoint, adding, “The region is likely to be transformed into a world class sports hub and possibly host major sports events in the future. This will not only promote sports culture, but will also support economic development in the region.” Al Nammari also explained that the segment also encompasses sports education and sports-related business, illustrating the possible value of the industry. According to Harikrishnan, manager, Barracuda Beach is Resort, the shift has already begun. “Since health consciousness is arising in the minds of the community, sports tourism will certainly carve a niche in the MENA region,” he explained. All in all, while considering the vast options when it comes to both events and active sports tourism, as Roberta summarised, “The MENA region has tremendous potential for developing sports tourism [...].”
By RAKTDA
In addition to facilities such as tennis courts, a private beach for volleyball and a football pitch, Katrin Herz, general manager, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, revealed that the hotel places great importance on the segment as many of its guests seek an active holiday, combining on- and off-site pursuits. Identifying that this goes hand-in-hand with taking part in events, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel was the start and finish line of this year’s Muscat Half Marathon, which also saw the property host several of the participants. The correlation between the large-scale events and recreational activities is undeniable, with the tournaments and competitions providing a platform
By RAKTDA
Moreover, Ray Stopforth, director, golf, Muscat Hills Golf and Country Club, added that the region also offers the opportunity to play 365 days a year, and is not restricted by seasonal changes. Although the upcoming 250-key onsite InterContinental Hotel is not yet open, Muscat Hills Golf and Country Club has agreements in place with local hotels to lure in tourists.
to showcase the best of the region. The increase in sports events is not simply providing a boost in awareness, but also has an indirect impact on the development of core infrastructure, such as sports facilities, accommodation and public transport, including Doha Metro. Stopforth described Dubai and Abu Dhabi as the front-runners because of their understanding that investing into sports activities creates high volume of spectators, both in attendance and through the media, which ultimately generates an interest in tourism. While global events are capturing the attention of international visitors, the sports sector is still a relatively novel concept within the region. Fehlbier argued that the love of sport needs to be nurtured from a young age, and when it becomes an innate part of local culture, tourists will naturally gravitate to the region. Fehlbier elaborated that hosting global sports events such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup is a great step forward in placing Qatar on the sports map and concluded, “I can foresee Qatar turning into an instinctive destina-
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Abu Dhabi Golf Club
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SIMON STAMPER
AREA GENERAL MANAGER, INTERCONTINENTAL CAIRO CITYSTARS
[The award] came through hard work and motivation
“The success [of achieving InterContinental Hotels Group Ten Club Award] came through [the team’s] hard work and motivation, it came through because [the team] stood strong in challenging times and I consider it as a recognition that we are successful in building a winning culture within the team, and truly work better together.”
GENERAL MANAGER, RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES AJMAN
IFTIKHAR HAMDANI
TRAVEL TALK
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[I] commend the entire Ramada Ajman team
“I would like to thank Gulf Sustainability and CSR Awards 2016 for the accolade [of Waste Management Award], and commend the entire Ramada Ajman team for their exceptional contributions towards the waste management system of the hotel.”
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NIZAR ADEEB has been appointed as the new area director of sales and marketing at Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, where he will be responsible for activities across all Minor Hotels’ properties in Qatar. Since beginning his career in sales and marketing some 21 years ago, Nizar has served global brands as well as luxury properties such as The Plaza Hotel in New York. In addition to leading the sales, marketing and public relations at the aforementioned address, Adeeb will head the re-branding of Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli and the pre-opening of three properties in the country.
Kokandi is the first female Saudi general manager in the country
Adeeb will lead Minor Hotels’ addresses in Qatar
OMAR TANTAWY has been named as the new general manager of Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino, where he has already gained nine years experience as the hotel’s resident manager. Tantawy began his career in the hospitality industry in 1988 at El Gezira Sheraton Hotel, where he held positions in a number of departments including rooms division along with sales and marketing. Since then, Tantawy has served in various five-star hotel brands in Cairo including Le Meridien and Grand Hyatt and was also part of InterContinental Cairo Citystars’ opening team.
SHADI SULEMAN has been named as the new general manager of Four Seasons Alexandria at San Stefano. Suleman first joined the company in 2002 at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, before returning to his home country, Syria, as part of the pre-opening team at Four Seasons Damascus. His first general manager position came in 2013 while working at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, following a stint as director of rooms. In his new position, Suleman will cement the property’s position as a leading hospitality offering in the city and maintain the hotel’s high standards.
Tantawy began his career in 1988
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NIZAR ADEEB
MARAM KOKANDI has been named as the general manager of the upcoming Park Inn by Radisson Jeddah Madinah Road, set to open its doors later this year. Kokandi studied hospitality management in the UK and has worked in various hospitality roles in Saudi Arabia and across the region. The appointment also marks a milestone, with Kokandi being the first female Saudi general manager in the country. In her new position, Kokandi will play a leading role in the preopening of the property and be responsible for its launch.
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SHADI SULEMAN
OMAR TANTAWY
MARAM KOKANDI
WHO’S MOVED
Suleman will ensure the property’s high standards
APRIL 2017
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RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
portance on culinary and retail experiences?
MOHAMAD AWADALLA CEO, TIME HOTELS
WITH SHOPPING BEING A KEY DRIVER IN ATTRACTING TOURISTS, MOHAMAD AWADALLA, CEO, TIME HOTELS, DESCRIBES WHAT MAKES DUBAI STAND OUT IN THIS REGARD.
MOHAMAD AWADALLA: Food and beverage come with an added value at TIME Hotels as we were awarded the Ethos of Slow Food Dubai in 2016. We serve slow food platters on our daily buffets and within our a la carte menu. In addition to that, we take good care of offering the guests a range of local produce, not processed or any additives applied to it, to preserve a great taste and good quality. During Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) and the 2016 Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) we offered our in-house guests a great deal of [discounts] when they booked with us. These vouchers were to be used in prominent shopping malls to make sure that the guest was part of the festival from the moment they booked. TRAVEL TRADE MENA: Dubai is a well established shopping hotspot and offers a myriad of dining options, what can guests expect when visiting the destination? MOHAMAD AWADALLA: Well Dubai is a standing jewel in the Middle East with nonstop development projects in every industry. If you are visiting during the cool temperatures, there are a number of attractions you can see. Starting with Dubai Glow Garden, Dubai Miracle Garden and Dubai Butterfly Garden and if you fancy a walk, then stroll along the newly opened Dubai Canal to see the skyline view of the emirate. If gaming is your thing, then head to the latest theme parks, IMG Worlds of Adventure, one of the biggest indoor theme parks and the latest outdoor theme park Dubai Park and Resorts.
TIME Oak Hotel & Suites
Yet, if you are more inclined to culture and music you can always visit heritage sites in Dubai to learn more about the culture of the country or go for a safari but do not miss the latest venue, Dubai Opera for the latest magnificent shows. TRAVEL TRADE MENA: What initiatives or projects are there to encourage the growth of tourism? MOHAMAD AWADALLA: Dubai’s Vision 2020 is the main driver for these sectors. Aiming for 20 million visitors is a target that heightened the bars for investors to develop the emirate within time to meet the upcoming demand for the Expo 2020. TIME Hotels aims to be involved with the current happenings that take place in the emirate and we extend dedicated promotions to meet the guest expectations. Aiming to drive a higher incentive for the guest to attract and involve them, in the activation, to make sure they stay with us during Dubai’s activations be it DSF or DSS.
TRAVEL TRADE MENA: How was business in 2016? MOHAMAD AWADALLA: 2016 matched 2015 in figures and even better in certain areas, the mix was more or less the same from the previous year. We have participated in international trade and initiated contact with new markets; we are always on the lookout for new market feeders to compensate the slow drive of others. Our guests are mainly GCC based but each property has a different feeder market, and in terms of countries we are looking at GCC as a whole, the UK, China, India, Germany and the Scandinavian region. We are targeting new markets mainly in Africa, as there is great potential now, with key feeder markets in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda as well as Nigeria. TRAVEL TRADE MENA: How do TIME Hotels attract guests who place an imAPRIL 2017
TIME Grand Plaza Hotel
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NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS
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Shurooq Held Golf Tour
WORLD TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA Cape Town April 19 – 21 www.africa.wtm.com Nearly 5,000 travel industry professionals are expended to attend one of the leading business-to-business exhibitions for the inbound and outbound Africa tourism market.
ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Dubai, UAE April 24 – 27 www.arabiantravelmarket.wtm.com One of the leading international tourism events within the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals.
Sharjah Senior Golf Masters 2017
In an effort to promote the emirate as a global sporting destination, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) recently hosted Sharjah Senior Golf Masters, a three-day tour featuring a number of world-renowned golfers.
M
arwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO, Shurooq noted, “Shurooq hosted this tournament in line with its strategic vision of promoting Sharjah as one of the region’s prime tourist and investment havens and the golf enthusiasts who attended the event were able to enjoy Sharjah’s key features.” The annual event, held at Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, is set to be sponsored by Shurooq until 2019.
IMEX Frankfurt, Germany May 16 – 18 www.imex-frankfurt.com A one-stop shop for meetings, events and incentive travel programmes where more than 3,500 exhibitors are expected to showcase their offerings
INTERCARE INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL TOURISM EXHIBITION Milan, Italy May 25 – 27 www.inter-care.it An opportunity for international medical and tourism operators to forge new working relationships.
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Al Marjan Island Participated in IHIF 2017 In an effort to enhance Ras Al Khaimah’s position as an international destination for investors, Al Marjan Island recently attended the 20th edition of International Hotel Investment Forum (IHIF 2017).
H
eld in Berlin on March 08, the forum is considered to be a diverse platform in the hotel industry, more than 2,000 delegates from more than 70 countries were in attendance. As well as interviews and forecasts from top economists, panel discussions on the latest developments, trends and best practices were also hosted. Through its participation, the master developer aimed to review and incorporate the best strategies governing the real estate industry and reinforce communications with international investors.
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