MAY 2016 - ISSUE 79
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EXCLUSIVE
Airlines
VISIT: LEBANON
26 EXPLORE
22 Umm Al Quwain ONSITE: MOROCCO
TOUR
24 Dammam
39 Rendezvous
MARKET UPDATE
www.traveltrademena.travel TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
HOTEL DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA JUMPS 30 PERCENT
ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba JOURNALIST Pauline Shahabian CONTRIBUTOR Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou Inna Armeanu DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi
Planned rooms in Africa soared to 64,000 in 365 hotels for this year, up 30 percent over 2015, according to figures by W Hospitality Group’s annual survey.
HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670
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orth Africa achieved a modest 7.5 percent pipeline increase, while sub-Saharan Africa is witnessing a strong growth of 42.1 percent year-on-year. Due to a major deal signed by AccorHotels, Angola saw a major shake-up in the country rankings. Never before listed among the top 10, it has now knocked Egypt out of second place. “For business, trade and capital investment, the continent remains an attractive proposition, leading to continuing demand for accommodation and other hospitality services,” said Matthew Weihs, managing director, Bench Events, organisers of the African Hotel Investment Forum, coming up in October.
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MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of COUNTRY
19.4.2016 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
108.85
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
8.87
Iran (IRR)
Rial
30,294.34
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,107.14
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,508.06
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.36
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.66
Syria (SYP)
Pound
219.87
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.00
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.49
MAY 2016
REGIONAL HOTELS CHALLENGED
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ccording to HotStats data, hotels across major Middle Eastern cities faced difficulties in February. Year-on-year profit per room recorded at Abu Dhabi properties dropped 37 percent for the month, largely due to the absence of International Defence Exhibition & Conference, which was primarily responsible for the 51.2 percent spike in profit per room in February 2015. Moreover, owing to declining prices, accommodation establishments in Amman witnessed a drop in RevPAR to USD89.31 in the 12 months to February. Hoteliers in the Saudi capital also recorded a 9.9 percent plunge in RevPAR.
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EXCLUSIVE AIRLINES
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GO BIG OR
Go Home
BUILDING ON THE STRATEGIC LOCATION OF THEIR HOME BASES, GROWING DEMAND FOR AIR TRAVEL AND THE OVERALL DEVELOPMENT OF THE REGION, MIDDLE EASTERN AIRLINES CONTINUE TO CAPTURE AN EVER-INCREASING SHARE OF THE GLOBAL AVIATION MARKET. WHERE WILL THEY GO NEXT?
RITA KASZIBA WRITES
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n recent years, the Middle East’s aviation sector has experienced phenomenal growth with air capacity within and from the region rising from 90.9 million available seats in 2005 to 193.6 million in 2014, representing a growth of 113 percent in just 10 years, with an average annual increase of 12.6 percent. In 2015, Middle East carriers once again proved to be at the front of aviation, having posted a 10.5 percent improvement in annual figures, the highest rate among all regions, and well above the 6.5 percent global average. As a result, according to International Air Transport Association, the share of international traffic carried by these airlines reached 14.2 percent, surpassing their North American counterparts. The astonishing surge has been spurred by the rise of the three Gulf heavyweights, namely Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways, which, thanks to their well-planned and executed expansion strategies, have gained prominence not only in the Arabian, but also in the global skies. Despite regional challenges, unfavourable currency impact and fluctuating business and customer confidence throughout the year, Middle Eastern airlines have continued to spread their wings far and wide.
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EXCLUSIVE AIRLINES
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AL AIN
In 2015, Emirates alone carried over 51.3 million passengers; giving a sense of just how high this number is, it equals more than five times the UAE’s population. During its 30th anniversary year, the Dubai-based airline operated over 186,000 flights, meaning 3,600 take offs on average per week as it continued to expand its network to 150 destinations with the addition of six new passenger routes on three continents. Emirates currently operates over 1,800 flights per week from its Dubai International hub to 153 locations in 81 countries and territories, and the top five destinations with the highest frequencies are India, the UK, US, Pakistan and Australia. This year, the carrier has stretched its reach even further with the launch of what is hailed as the world’s longest nonstop flight covering over 14,000km between Dubai and Auckland in New Zealand. Based on information disclosed by the airline, bookings on the itinerary have been very strong and the management expects the service to become a valuable contributor to the total network in light of the extensive connections available from Dubai, that significantly simplify travel from east to west and vice versa. With a fleet of 250 wide-body aircraft, Emirates is currently one of the world’s biggest operators of this kind
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of jets, allowing it to retain a strong presence on long-haul markets. Demonstrating the growing appetite for faraway destinations, the airline has upgauged a number routes in recent months, including several services to the US where it now operates to 10 points with an average of 15 flights in a single day. STRONGER TOGETHER While Emirates remains highly selective of its partners, Etihad Airways has long reaped the benefits of codeshares and equity investments. In 2015, for example, the airline’s equity partners had a core economic contribution of USD141 million and added some USD330 million to Abu Dhabi’s tourism industry. Together with its partners, that includes 197 interline relationships and 49 codeshare deals, Etihad Airways now offers a combined passenger and cargo network of nearly 600 destinations with over 25,200 flights per week. All in all, in 2015, some 17.4 million travellers flew with Etihad Airways – up 17 percent year-on-year – on 97,400 flights which covered 467 million kilometres. Theoretically, this means that the airline could have circled the Earth not less than 11,653 times. Underscoring the success of the company’s strategy, partnerships delivered more than five million passengers, a pronounced
MAY 2016
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surge of 43 percent in just one year. Taking advantage of its partnerships, the Abu Dhabi-based carrier has consolidated its presence on long-haul markets in recent years, and after growing to a fleet size of 121 aircraft at the end of 2015, nine percent more than in 2014, Etihad Airways will now support the next phase of its global expansion with the receipt of 10 deliveries over the coming months. Long-haul expansion to key locations, such as London’s Heathrow Airport, Mumbai, Melbourne, Düsseldorf, Perth, Shanghai, Istanbul, and Johannesburg is complemented by increased frequencies on 16 existing routes across the world with these including destinations mostly in the Middle East, Asia and Australia. This year will see the inauguration of the carrier’s third daily Airbus A380 service to Heathrow Airport, alongside the new A380 destinations of Mumbai and Melbourne, while the Boeing B787 will commence services to Dusseldorf, Shanghai, Istanbul, Johannesburg and Perth.
MAY 2016
FAR AND WIDE In fact Australasia remains a key focus for the Gulf heavyweights with Qatar Airways also competing for a larger slice of the pie, notably with the upcoming launch of a new Doha – Auckland service, which, will set new records for both distance and time to become the longest nonstop service in the world, eclipsing Emirates’ aforementioned flight. With the evolution of fuel-efficient technology and current oil prices, Qatar
Airways’ management expects to witness a new era of ultra-long-haul aviation. A new generation of aircraft is also helping to make longer flights more efficient, and both Boeing and Airbus are working on extended-range models, such as the Airbus A350-900ULR and Boeing 777-8 that will enter service
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in the next five years. Yet, such super-long nonstop flights are not new. A decade ago, these types of routes seemed to be emerging as a key trend, as it was pinpointed from Qatar Airways’ side, further reminding that the soaring price of fuel in 2009 and 2010, coupled with the global economic crisis, reduced the demand for such flights, making them simply unsustainable. Qatar Airways’ leadership maintains the view that a direct air route will always be preferable, particularly for the business travel community, that perceives ultra-long haul as a great opportunity for productive working hours. As the airline continues to explore new geographical areas, demand remains the primary factor. Qatar Airways will continue to seek to leverage its Doha hub and global network to connect customers to these ultra-long haul flights, in view of the fact that technology is now there to make these services more efficient. Qatar Airways management is straightforward in its strategy as is looking at where it makes business sense to operate. To this end, this year will see the launch of 14 new destinations, including five European cities. Over the years, Europe proved to be a very important and strategic market for Qatar Airways’ growth and expansion, driven by strong demand from the Gulf states. Consequently, the carrier currently operates to 38 locations on the continent, to many with multiple daily flights, including to cities such as London, Paris, Madrid and Barcelona. The management strongly believes that the one-stop transfer
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MAY 2016
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EXCLUSIVE AIRLINES
options available at Hamad International Airport will make these routes even more successful. Boosting passenger movements via Doha is in line with forecasts that expect traffic at Qatar’s main entry point to surge from the current 30 million to 50 million passengers per annum by 2018. On one hand, the focus remains on key business and leisure destinations, while on the other hand, establishing connections with previously underserved markets is also a strong pillar of Qatar Airways’ strategy. The addition of new destinations is in parallel with the enhancement of the fleet. It is noteworthy that on average the airline receives a new aircraft once every 10 days, and the average age of the fleet is as low as five years. All these expansion plans underscore the Gulf airlines’ ambition to link the region with wider markets and take passengers to more places than ever before.
MAY 2016
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SPECIAL REPORT VIENNA
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ENCHANTING
Wonderland
VIENNA IS PROVING TO BE A DESTINATION FOR EXPLORERS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE, WITH A PARTICULAR PENCHANT FOR ATTRACTING VISITORS FROM THE MIDDLE EAST. BOASTING A MYRIAD OF ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS AND A NEVER-ENDING LIST OF ATTRACTIONS SUITABLE FOR FAMILIES, THE CONCEPT OF TEDIUM HAS NO PLACE IN THE LAND WHERE KIDS HAVE A BLAST.
Riding through the old town in a traditional horse-drawn carriage ©WienTourismus/Peter Rigaud
PAULINE SHAHABIAN WRITES
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ccording to Vienna Tourist Board statistics, the Austrian capital welcomed 6.6 million visitors and registered an astounding 14.3 million overnight stays in 2015, marking noteworthy year-on-year increases of 6.1 and 5.9 percent, respectively. The destination’s top five markets in the year were once again headed by Germany which was closely followed by Austria, the US, Italy and the UK. Nevertheless, over the past decade, Vienna has experienced consistently strong growth from Middle Eastern countries which could ultimately become the driving force for realising the city’s ambitious goal of achieving 18 million overnight stays by 2020. Owing to excellent flight connections between the Middle East and the European city, Arab countries in Asia contributed over 184,000 visitors in 2015, up 39.6 percent over 2014, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE clocking 35,900 and 57,000, respectively. WONDER EMPORIUM “It is the demand and the high portion of Arab families seen in Vienna during the summer months and the feedback from hotels, which tells us that we need to care for families in our promotion for tourists from Arab countries,” explained Sissi Woschnagg, market manager, Middle East, Vienna Tourist Board, highlighting that for the
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first time ever, the board’s family tourist brochures are also offered in Arabic this year. In essence, Vienna was the romantic imperial city of the Habsburgs, a centre of arts and culture, but it is also a destination for kids, packed with action, fun and almost unlimited leisure enjoyment for the entire family. The capital boasts vast green areas where children can play to their hearts’ content. But that is by no means all. The city is a destination where little princesses can dance a minuet in a hooped skirt and old-fashioned bodice, and where little superdetectives can find unicellular organism with a microscope, or reinvent electricity. UNCOVER THE BLISS “There [are] not many capitals in the world [that have] beaches and sweet water swimming and water sport opportunities within the city limits,” noted Woschnagg. Indeed, Vienna’s enviable array of offerings is truly what sets it apart as the ideal destination for family holiday-makers. The city provides ample fun for water babies and climbing fans. Highlights include Danube Island, an open-air recreational paradise with 42km of riverside pursuits for almost every kind of outdoor sports activity; the 15,000m2 Wasserturm water park featuring waterfalls, ponds, bridges, streams, a slide and boat trips; and Dianabad, one of several indoor pools, ideal for rainy days, boasting
MAY 2016
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SPECIAL REPORT VIENNA
A panda at Schönbrunn Zoo ©WienTourismus/Willfried Gredler-Oxenbauer
Merry-go-round at Prater ©WienTourismus/Karl Thomas
a 125m slide, pirate ship and water garden. Families interested in excursions can also visit Schönbrunn Zoo, home to over 700 species spread across a number of enclosures, parks and aquarium. Spoiled for choice, travellers can also visit Aqua Terra Zoo, an exciting underwater world waiting to be explored. Amusement parks capture the heart of all children, and Vienna sure has a plethora of options to suit all interests. Wurstelprater boasts around 250 action-packed attractions, including Praterturm, the world’s highest chain carousel which made it into the Guinness World Records. Madame Tussauds Vienna brings visitors face-to-face with around 80 stars from the worlds of film, sport and music. Guests of all ages can pose for photos alongside the uncannily lifelike waxworks and enjoy the interactive exhibits. The House of Music demonstrates that music is something to be seen, felt as well as heard. A hands-on journey of discovery through real and virtual rooms on six floors gives visitors – including children as part of special tours – the chance to experience music with all senses. Furthermore, the internationally acclaimed productions, state-of-the-art stagecraft, imperial setting and beautifully painted puppets at the Marionetten Theater Schloss Schönbrunn never fail to cast a spell over audiences, regardless of their age. A group of highly-talented puppeteers put on various operas, operettas and
MAY 2016
musicals that have been specially adapted for young visitors. The Niedermair Children’s Theater, Dschungel Wien and Theater der Jugend also present a broad range of amusements, while, the Theater in der Josefstadt even lets young fans take a look behind the scenes. On rainy days, families can flock to BOGI Park, hailed as Austria’s largest indoor playground, which offers 5,000m2 of fun for children aged one to 12. No journey would be complete without some cultural nourishment. A trip to the Schönbrunn Palace children’s museum offers various themed guided tours to give unprecedented insights into the everyday life of the youngest members of the ruling Habsburg family. And at the end of the journey, everyone is given the chance to dress up in historic costumes. Moreover, kids aged six to 10 can find out what an average day was like for the Austrian rulers and their offspring in the imperial Hofburg palace in the heart of Vienna on a special guided tour of the Imperial Apartments – the private rooms kept by Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Sisi. Here, too, they have the chance to try on grand costumes and experience imperial life first hand. With plans to accommodate more arrivals in the coming years and to broaden its appeal to non German-speaking markets, one thing is for sure – there is no shortage of entertainment in Vienna, ensuring a successful and fulfilling tourist experience for families.
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VISIT LEBANON
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ROCK
Solid
RITA KASZIBA WRITES
FAMOUS FOR ITS EMBLEMATIC CEDAR TREES, SYMBOLIC RAOUCHÉ ROCK AND ITS INHERENT SPIRIT OF HOSPITALITY, LEBANON IS JUST AS WELL-KNOWN FOR ITS RESILIENCE TO GEOPOLITICAL TURBULENCES AS FOR ITS ABILITY TO GAIN STRENGTH FROM HARDSHIP.
LEBANON IN BRIEF Capital: Beirut Currency: Lebanese Pound (LBP) Language: Arabic Population: 5.8 million Calling Code: +961 Capital Time Zone: GMT +2:00
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L
ive Love Lebanon has been the country’s slogan for the past year, promoting Lebanon as a welcoming destination with a diverse product that satisfies the preferences of various sectors from sun-seekers to religious travellers and from MICE organisers to nature lovers. In 2015, some 1.4 million visitors flocked into the country and Euromonitor International expects this number to rise to 1.44 million this year as Lebanon continues to leverage its plethora of attractions and strong appeal among both regional as well as European travellers – and, nevertheless, as industry stakeholders amplify their efforts to better adapt to shifting market trends. Francois Galoisy, general manager, Radisson Blu Martinez Hotel, Beirut, cited STR Global’s report that showed a 5.9 percent year-on-year increase in RevPAR in Beirut, adding that the encouraging signs came amid changing market trends with leisure demand dropping and business volumes rising, and with feeder markets transferring and broadening beyond the Arabian Peninsula. “Since 2011, and due to the [situation in Syria], the main feeder market, the GCC has started to decrease year by year, and the market has began to shift to the Iraqi, Egyptian and Turkish segments,” elucidated Mohamad Zein, director of sales, Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun. Recent travel bans from nearby countries have accelerated the conversion of the country’s client base, noted Hartmut Grauel, general manager, Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel, disclosing that this has led to an 80 percent drop in GCC volumes. As Georges Ojeil, general manager, Le Gray Beirut, explained, this change in dynamics has led to a shift in the GCC to international guest ratio, subsequently reducing the Lebanese tourism industry’s dependence on Gulf states. In turn, European segments have shown greater interest in the destination, said Ojeil, listing the Levant, especially Jordan along with Egypt among the most buzzing up and coming divisions. As Maria Bou Eid, hotel manager, SAIFI Suites, elaborated, although the Gulf region has always been among the property’s top 20 markets, due to the circumstances, hoteliers refrained from building their strategy solely on this sector. On the other hand, markets such as Australia, the UK, Germany and Canada are now rising remarkably and interest is also gradually picking up
MAY 2016
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from the Netherlands and Belgium, creating a broader clientele base. In addition, as Cynthia Flouty, director of sales and marketing, Crowne Plaza Beirut, noted, Lebanese expatriates continue to contribute a large share to the pie. Although markets such as Turkey, Iran or even Russia have shown great potential, to ensure a healthy guest mix, actively engaging with a wider pool of potential guests is crucial, stressed Peter Edholm, cluster director, sales and marketing, InterContinental Phoenicia Hotel and Le Vendôme Beirut. “Beirut is a vibrant city, however, the many positive sides of Lebanon and its hospitality often remain unseen and in the shadow of the current issues,” affirmed Edholm. WINNING STRATEGIES In parallel with recent trends, Yasmine Eid Maalouf, general manager, Ramada Beirut – Downtown, reported remarkable increases of 56 percent and 14 percent from Europe and Africa, respectively, admitting that in order to weather challenges and maintain a positive gross operating profit, average room rates have suffered in favour of higher occupancy levels. “Due to the many changes, we have had to constantly change our rates selling strategy, [conduct] sales trips to emerging markets, generate business volume with medium prices and increase benefits in a bid to face challenges and local competition,” disclosed Eid Maalouf. As Flouty put it, “Lebanon is a volatile market, therefore, we have to be proactive and adjust our strategies accordingly. We need to act fast, otherwise we will lose business.” Among the measures taken, Grauel mentioned daily monitoring of selling rates and specific promotions in key feeder markets, while also keeping a close eye on controlling expenses in a smart manner. In fact, similar approaches have been applied at most establishments and businesses due to the fact that, as Bou Eid highlighted, Lebanese tourism stakeholders have been competing for a fair share of a smaller cake. As a result, as Bou Eid revealed, SAIFI Suites’ management for example chose to offer more competitive rates, especially for the corporate segment which, due to the cancellation and delay of several projects, significantly cut back on travel related expenses. With guests opting for more affordable options – while still expecting high level of services in turn – hoteliers have been prompted to step up their efforts to better position their properties in line with current guest preferences and promote it accordingly. The decline in business travel has posed a particular challenge for extendedstay accommodation establishments. Nevertheless, as Samia Dagher, sales executive, Staybridge Suites Beirut, revealed, by catering to a versatile nationality mix, with a keen focus on long-stayers, the hotel was able to maintain performance levels and, more than that, generate a steady increase in its corporate portfolio.
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MAY 2016
VISIT LEBANON Moving with times and remaining creative is indeed crucial, underlined Pasquale Baiguera, general manager, Mövenpick Hotel Beirut. “We want to be perceived as being easy to do business with. We always strive to offer a solution to our guest requests,” said Baiguera. “Our main focus has and will also be to achieve the highest customer satisfaction. We strongly believe that now more than ever before, it is very critical that [at all levels] of the organisation we remain committed to making sure that every guest […] has a memorable experience to talk about when he returns home.” Likewise, travel agents and tour operators have also adjusted to the situation with Elie Nammour, marketing director, Belair Travel & Tourism, suggesting that in order to successfully navigate through current tides and currents, being flexible and diversifying products to cater to smaller and specialised niche demand have proven pivotal. As Aline Ghanem, managing director, Exclusive Services Group, indicated, given the current fluctuation in
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demand, tourism professionals have learned to be on standby, ready to act on last-minute bookings especially from the corporate segment. Similar sentiments have been echoed by Ojeil who stressed, “Adopting situational leadership is of capital importance when managing hotels within an agitated sociopolitical context. […] Rational management should always balance between the impact of cost saving and the guest experience; any potential momentary saving could lead to greater losses in the long run.” TURNING THE CORNER “Lebanon is well-known for its excellent customer care and services across the region. […] I think the coming months will be better because Lebanon is safer […]. As for the first months of the year, results were good, actually, better than expected,” reported Teddy Aouad, operations manager, Three O Nine Urban House. Fuelling the optimism, new properties are set to emerge on Lebanon’s
MAY 2016
VISIT LEBANON horizon, such as the 153-key Kempinski Summerland Hotel & Resort Beirut, hailed as the first luxury resort to open in the heart of the capital. Slated to be unveiled this summer, the property will feature a labyrinth of pools, a private marina and various water sport activities, among more. As Dagmar Symes, general manager, Kempinski Summerland Hotel & Resort Beirut, explained, despite the resort feeling, the new address will be equally attractive for business travellers as well as for conferences and meetings. “Being the first luxury hotel opening in six years, the launch of out hotel has created job opportunities for the local market and given hope for the Lebanese tourism sector,” added Symes. Also coming up on June 01 – with the grand opening scheduled for July 01 – Royal Tulip Achrafieh will further elevate the luxury travel experience in the city. Besides 76 rooms and suites, a restaurant, roof-top lounge and two meeting rooms will be also available. As Nicolas Anghelopoulos, general manager, Royal Tulip Achrafieh,
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revealed, Golden Tulip MENA’s first five-star project in Lebanon is set to boost demand and corporate business in the area, while also further enhancing the destination’s touristic appeal. Speaking of the encouraging signs, Anghelopoulos praised the investors who have shown their strong belief in the Lebanese tourism industry even amid the most challenging times.
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Regardless of circumstances, Lebanon always delivers, affirmed Edholm, saying that, therefore, it is even more important to turn first time visitors into ambassadors of the country. “Being a landmark [of the destination], we feel responsible to showcase a more positive image of this beautiful country […] and we have launched the #SeeLebanonForYourself initiative to highlight the beauty of Lebanon through high quality images,” gave a pinch of positivism Edholm. Industry stakeholders indeed remain bullish of the future with Ojeil saying that the country has already proven successful in regaining its position on the tourism map in no time and once the situation is resolved, the sector will switch from its current survival mode into a new gear. “We need to constantly promote Lebanon as a destination for leisure, business and medical tourism as well as culinary experiences,” encouraged a collective effort Ojeil. Lebanon indeed has a plethora of attractions and activities, existing
MAY 2016
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and potential visitors, however, need to be reminded of these, underlined Galoisy, saying that acting according to the situation is crucial, and the uplift of sanctions on Iran, for example, gives Lebanese tourism a window of opportunity to tap into this fast-growing segment. Zein also counts on the Ministry of Tourism to launch a comprehensive marketing campaign in all countries with high potential in order to showcase all that Lebanon has to offer. This idea was also supported by Eid Maalouf who also called for fixed prices in each hotel category to protect consumer rights and fuel demand and on national airlines to offer competitive fares. Nammour concurred that carriers can play a paramount role in reviving tourism by teaming up with accommodation
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establishments. Backed by financial institutions and commercial hubs, this could lead to attractive packages and promotional endeavours in innovative channels, he said. Nonetheless, safety and security are the key words, underlined Bou Eid, saying that other than that, Lebanon has never needed major protocols or operational contingency plans, and in order to restore the destination’s glory, developments should be implemented on country level, rather than just within the tourism scene. “We have the best hotels in the world with multi-classification levels. We have the highest [level of ] hospitality services and multiple activities available catering to all kinds of interest,” asserted Bou Eid, saying that as the hospitality sector is already at the highest standards, the country now needs to match these levels. Expressing a positive sentiment for the future, Nammour concluded, “Lebanon is a resilient destination and it has a major expertise in tackling tide waves […].”
MAY 2016
EXPLORE UMM AL QUWAIN
A TREASURE
Mapped “U
HAILED AS THE QUIETEST EMIRATE, UMM AL QUWAIN IS SEEING INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS DESIGNED TO MAKE LIFE MORE COMFORTABLE FOR ITS RESIDENTS, BUT ALSO TO PUSH IT INTO THE GLOBAL SPOTLIGHT.
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ANA MLADENOVIC WRITES
UMM AL QUWAIN IN BRIEF
mm Al Quwain is undergoing a Country: UAE change in roads Language: Arabic infrastructure as Currency: Emirati Dirham (AED) new flyovers are Population: 65,000 being built, which will help to conDial Code: +971 6 nect the emirate and its port with Time zone: GMT +4:00 the major highways,” explained Rajan Harikrishnan, manager, Barracuda Beach Resort. Bolstered connectivity with the other emirates is poised to bring more visitors into this often overlooked seaside destination, but what is really expected to boost visibility internationally and showcase the destination’s offerings to a global audience is the recent launch of Google Street View in the emirate. Potential visitors and all interested parties can now access a 360-degree imagery of major streets across the emirate, as well as its key attractions such as the Beach Garden, the Old Town Area, Umm Al Quwain National Museum and the abandoned Soviet-era plane, Ilyushin IL-76. “Street View, as a feature of Google Maps, has a variety of practical uses for visitors, local businesses, residents and students. It can help tourists make better informed hotel bookings, or give a new restaurant the chance to showcase its location which can help it connect with potential customers,” explained Joyce Baz, head of communications, MENA, Google. “Wherever we have launched Street View, we have seen a positive response, and we believe that people and businesses in the UAE and across the world can benefit on many levels from having this imagery available,” she further enthused, reminding that Google Maps services enjoy more than one billion active monthly users. REJUVENATING TOUCHES In addition to strengthening its online presence and visibility, the emirate’s hotel accommodation portfolio is also being upgraded to better cater to tourists. Notable works are being done at Barracuda Beach Resort, as Harikrishnan revealed. The property is in the process of renovating its rooms to meet and exceed the expectations of guests, as he shared, reminding that the resort is one of the few in the city to implement the HACCP standard which, as Harikrishnan said, ensures that quality of food and hygiene is in accordance with government norms and to the full satisfaction of guests. As the emirate proceeds to strengthen its tourism credentials, the outlook is bright, as it is confirmed by the revived business performance since the beginning of the year. “Business picked up slowly in the beginning of [this year] and we see a gradual shift in the spending of people, which is in favour of our resort and tourism industry as a whole,” Harikrishnan concluded.
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TOUR DAMMAM
BEYOND
Corporate HOME TO MAJOR OIL AND GAS COMPANIES, DAMMAM IS ON THE MAPS OF CORPORATE TRAVELLERS FROM ACROSS THE REGION. YET, THIS GLISTENING SEASIDE DESTINATION OFFERS MUCH MORE.
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ANA MLADENOVIC WRITES
“D
DAMMAM IN BRIEF
ammam is the capital of the Country: Saudi Arabia Eastern ProvLanguage: Arabic ince, where maCurrency: Saudi Riyal (SAR) jor suppliers of Population: 941,000 the oil and gas industry are in,” said Dial code: +966 3 Mohammed Maher, director of sales Time Zone: GMT +3:00 and marketing, Sheraton Dammam Hotel & Convention Centre, further explaining that the city is home to various offices which contribute to the business of the hotel. Being the regional centre of government, industry and commerce, it is only natural that Dammam’s hospitality scene thrives on the corporate travel market. “This segment has a significant importance and impact on the business stability and represents a big margin of the business mix,” confirmed Fadi Mheisen, hotel manager, Park Inn by Radisson Dammam. Maher was more specific, saying, “Corporate business represents between 50 – 60 percent of the total business mix of the hotels within the Eastern Province.” His estimates are mirrored by Samir Khairallah, director of marketing and sales, Golden Tulip Al Hamra, who attributed almost 80 percent of the property’s total yearly revenue to corporate demand. When it comes to meeting the needs and expectations of the core market, Dammam’s hoteliers know their game well and make sure to tick all the boxes. “We consider [those clients] as our expert guests since they visit many hotels and travel to many countries, experiencing different styles of hospitality. […] We take them as an opportunity to learn about their experiences and enhance our efforts to exceed their expectations,” Mheisen explained. Strong dependence on a single market can prove to be challenging to occupancy and room rates, as it was shown by the overall business performance of the city’s hotel industry in 2015. The average room rate was pushed down by the lower corporate demand from the oil sector, as well as by the decline in Euro exchange rates which resulted in more outbound trips from the Kingdom, according to Colliers International. In addition, driven by cost-cutting efforts, the demand for accommodation from the corporate segment shifted from five- to four-star properties, forcing the top-tier sector’s room prices to drop. A WIDENING AIM Due to its seaside location and a myriad of shopping and leisure opportunities, it comes as no surprise that this bustling hub also lures other types of travellers, with highly varied needs. Sheraton Dammam Hotel & Convention Centre is popular among event organisers and attendees boasting a 1,500m2 conference and exhibition space, and the property also welcomes families and leisure travellers especially from Riyadh, looking for a weekend city break, as Maher revealed. “Since the hotel is located at the Corniche and close to the shopping and leisure facilities in Dammam, we welcome many families during weekends and holidays, and enjoy serving them,” Mheisen shared the experience of Park Inn by Radisson Dammam. Families are also a lucrative market for Golden Tulip Al Hamra, especially during the summer season and school vacation periods, according to Khairallah, who also pinpointed local sports teams and federations as a good market for the property, in addition to event-goers and organisers. Looking ahead, it is clear that any further drop in oil prices will mean more business for establishments with more affordable room rates, as it is highlighted by Colliers International. But Dammam’s seasoned hospitality veterans seem poised to weather the storm, relying on the convenient location, service and alternative market opportunities.
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ONSITE MOROCCO
GREENER
Pastures FULLY ACKNOWLEDGING AN UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH POTENTIAL, MOROCCO IS TAKING STRIDES TO POSITION ITS TOURISM INDUSTRY AT THE FOREFRONT OF FUTURE DEVELOPMENT.
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PAULINE SHAHABIAN WRITES
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MOROCCO IN BRIEF
n accordance with research by the World Travel & Tourism Capital: Rabat Council, the sector’s total conCurrency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) tribution to Morocco’s GDP Language: Arabic in 2015 was MAD172 billion Population: 33.85 million (USD17.87 billion), and is forecast to Calling Code: +212 rise two percent this year, and further Capital Time Zone: GMT +1:00 surge 4.1 percent per annum until 2026. As Mohamed Mekouar, chairman, Privilege Voyages Casablanca, noted, the country’s tourism industry has significantly developed over the past 15 years following modernisation in infrastructure, an open skies policy, wider promotion across the world, organisation of cultural and culinary festivals, as well as locally-held international summits, and all these whilst the country is upholding its true charm and character. Similarly, Félix Murillo, general manager, Four Seasons Resort Marrakech, expressed that Morocco’s popularity among travellers has risen with the passage of time, as diversified leisure offerings are combined with a rich historical appeal, making it a sought-after destination for visitors in search of enriching experiences. The surge was also reflected in the hotel’s business in 2015 as it registered increased guest arrivals over 2014.
MAY 2016
ONSITE MOROCCO TOURISM TAKING PRECEDENCE Indeed, travel and tourism continues to flourish in Morocco, in line with the country’s Vision 2020, which outlines the principle of enhancing the competitiveness of the industry by addressing weaknesses and turning them into opportunities through a firm focus on new trends. Moreover, the plan aims to double accommodation capacity in the Kingdom, with the addition of 200,000 new beds, a step expected to also expand tourist arrivals, mainly from Europe. “With the Vision 2020 plan, tourism will remain the key driver of economic, social and cultural development [in] Morocco,” stated Emilie Pignol, director of sales and marketing, Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech. “The key components of the touristic offer will be based on four pillars; authenticity, diversity, quality and sustainability. This vision will be applicable for Marrakech but also for other key destinations which will accelerate their development, such as Rabat and Casablanca but also Fes, Tangier and the south of Morocco.”
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Indeed, authorities are keen on pushing the tourism product of a number of cities. “With something to cater to the needs of all kinds of travellers, from the dynamic cosmopolitan city of Casablanca, to the vibrant medinas and souks of Marrakech, to the awe-inspiring natural landscapes, numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, spirit-lifting adventures [as well as] rich food and cultural offerings – there is a vast spectrum of experiences to discover and explore,“ added Murillo. Meanwhile, Olivier Thomas, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca,
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commented, “In line with the country’s tourism and hospitality vision, it is only advantageous to Morocco’s larger tourism sector to offer more choice to visitors and promote and leverage the potential of other untapped destinations that also have a diverse range of attractions and experiences to offer.” He added that with its diversified economy, the Kingdom is already well positioned for sustainable growth in the future and the authorities’ renewed commitment to showcase the currently lesser-known destinations will only drive more tourists to the country and create a positive impact on its economic growth. The upscale business hotel, which opened in January, already eagerly anticipates to clock 40,000 room nights this year alone, mainly relying on European and GCC markets. David Sanchez, director, Complete Tours, was keen to point out the noteworthy ventures across the country, highlighting investments in Tangiers, restoration works in Fez, as well as an influx of new restaurants, hotels
MAY 2016
ONSITE MOROCCO
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and complexes in Casablanca. Sanchez, however, noted that although work is underway to develop and promote alternative cities other than the prominent Marrakech, progress has been slow. ONLY WAY IS UP For some time now, Moroccan tourism has been consolidating its development and the positioning of its brand, according to Tarik Kerdoudi, director of sales and marketing, Mövenpick Hotel Casablanca, who elaborated that the country’s authenticity – which lies in its diverse territories, landscapes, natural resources, ecosystems as well as culture and influences – represents a real competitive advan-
tage over Morocco’s direct contenders. Furthermore, Christophe Prieu, sales and marketing task force, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi Marrakech, mentioned that the entry of international hotel chains in the destination has greatly helped with overall external visibility. He also reiterated Moroccan stakeholders’ efforts in developing cities in a bid to provide visitors with ample options. Following a three-year extensive renovation and expansion period, costing approximately USD69 million, the 503-key property is gearing up to softopen under the Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts brand in September. Upon completion, the establishment will feature seven dining and entertainment venues as well as leisure facilities, such as a spa, gym, kids’ club and swimming pools. In addition, a dedicated entrance will connect the hotel to Palais des Congrès, hailed as the country’s largest convention centre, which will also be operated by the hotelier. As Gautier Py, general manager, Hyatt Place Taghazout Bay, noted, visitors are always in need of new activities, hence, Morocco should better communicate in reference to its culture, products and infrastructure. Py further shed light on the Taghazout Bay project as a great initiative which adheres to the country’s tourism vision and sets sustainable development at the heart of priorities, with ample sport activities, a picturesque countryside and landscaping. “In line with [Vision 2020’s] directive, Morocco is making great strides to enhance its infrastructure and continue developing the tourism sector across all key segments and parameters. Morocco’s welcoming visa policy, the open skies policy, friendly relations with [neighbouring countries] and sharp focus on sustainability, are all distinguishing factors fostering the country’s future tourism growth, which will ultimately drive more tourists to its shores,” concluded Thomas.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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DUBAI EMBRACES PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
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ubai Municipality, Road and Transport Authority (RTA) and Community Development Authority joined hands to transform the city into a barrier-free, inclusive, friendly destination for disabled individuals. The project launched by the entities is based on a comprehensive plan to review and evaluate infrastructure, facilities and public transportation in the emirate which will also address assessment of policies and standards developed to ensure adequate suitability. Mattar Al Tayer, chairman, RTA, explained that the initiative consists of six phases with the first expected to be completed by the end of the second quarter of the year.
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ATLANTIS, THE PALM: SPECIAL DIVING TRAINING Diving sessions
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s part of its efforts to support social inclusion and the empowerment of people with disabilities, Dive Atlantis, the newest addition to Atlantis, The Palm resort attractions, hosted a twoday diving training programme for people with special needs. Organised in collaboration with Disabled Divers International, the initiative was aimed at promoting, developing and conducting scuba diving training sessions in professional and non-professional categories. “Diving can be an enriching experience, potentially helping to improve quality of life,� commented Mike Ceci, manager, Dive Atlantis. He added that it is a sport where participants experience the feeling of absolute weightlessness, thus it is usually comfortable for those with challenges in regards to movement.
MAY 2016
TRAVEL CHANNELS
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TRAVEL ACTIVITY INFLUENCED BY TRIPADVISOR RAK SUPPORTS KIDS WITH DIABETES
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as Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority hosted the ninth edition of Basma Camp for more than 100 diabetic children. With the aim to improve the quality of care, the event educated children aged eight to 14 from GCC and Asian countries on how to handle the condition and its impact on day-to-day life. The initiative included a special dinner, face painting and a Little Chef activity where food experts from all over the emirate explained to the children how to cook their own food, and other games.
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he Global Economic Contribution of TripAdvisor report, conducted by Oxford Economics, revealed that, globally, the website generated 22 million trips, 352 million nights in 2014, and USD64 billion in incremental travel expendi-
tures. The findings also illustrated a surge in the number of journeys taken to a particular destination as photos, reviews, listings and information for that destination increased. Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer, TripAdvisor, commented that user-generated content transformed the way people travel and the study provides compelling insights into just how the site impacted the global tourism industry. “Traveller reviews, ratings and photos help to put smaller, lesser-known destinations in front of a huge international audience and give travellers the confidence to visit new places,� Messing added.
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RENDEZVOUS
on the faces of all children during their stay. A choice of six dining outlets providing diverse culinary experiences will be available, including a Lebanese sea food restaurant and an exquisite rooftop bar directly by the Mediterranean Sea.
Q & A with
TRAVEL TRADE MENA: Which markets will you be focussing on? DAGMAR SYMES: We will focus on both domestic guests looking for a short escape from the hustle and bustle of their daily life as well as on GCC vacationers and Lebanese families living across the world and coming home for the holidays. The hotel is equally attractive for business travellers, conferences and meetings due to its close proximity to the city centre and the diverse activities available on site for business travellers. TRAVEL TRADE MENA: The past months have brought various challenges for the Lebanese tourism in-
dustry. What do you think makes this the perfect time to bring Kempinski Summerland to the market? DAGMAR SYMES: Lebanon has always been an extremely volatile market which could be down one day but pick up very fast We are hopeful in the future of Beirut and Lebanon and a whole and believe in this market. TRAVEL TRADE MENA: How can the launch of such a prestigious brand help to revive the Lebanese tourism sector? DAGMAR SYMES: Being the first luxury hotel opening in six years, the opening of our hotel has created new job opportunities for the local market and given hope for the Lebanese tourism sector. The property will also provide travellers with more choices [and offer a] true luxury experience for their holidays or business travels. We look forward to welcoming all guests this summer.
DAGMAR SYMES GENERAL MANAGER, KEMPINSKI SUMMERLAND HOTEL & RESORT, BEIRUT
INVESTOR CONFIDENCE REMAINS STRONG IN LEBANON WITH DAGMAR SYMES, GENERAL MANAGER, KEMPINSKI SUMMERLAND HOTEL & RESORT, BEIRUT, INTRODUCING HERE A NEW PROPERTY.
TRAVEL TRADE MENA: When is the hotel scheduled to open? DAGMAR SYMES: Kempinski Summerland Hotel & Resort, Beirut is set to open this summer. The resort will be unique in its category in Beirut as it will be the first luxury resort to open in the heart of the Lebanese capital. It features 153 rooms and suites with a labyrinth of pools surrounding the entire area. Guests will be able to enjoy a luxury pool experience, relax, chill and unwind in this calm and tranquil setting. A private sandy beach, private bungalows with their exclusive Jacuzzi, extensive spa, private marina and a wide range of water sports activities will be all available to complete the resort experience. We have thought carefully about our young guests and to provide a [fulfilling] experience for families and children. Our mascot Kempi Fish will put a smile MAY 2016
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The GCC is one of our core markets “The GCC is one of our core markets at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives, with Saudi Arabia [being] one of our top five source markets this year, so attending the Arabian Travel Market to reconnect with clients and seek new opportunities is very important for us. This year, we are excited to be launching Following the Equator, the first international tourism film festival in the Maldives, which is being held at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi between July 10 – 12. […] We will be sharing more details about Following the Equator with our tour operator partners.”
CLUSTER GENERAL MANAGER, RAMADA PLAZA JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE AND RAMADA SHARJAH
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ALPER CAN BULCUM
DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING, THE SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI, MALDIVES
EVGENIA BOYANKOVA
TRAVEL TALK
One can gain a competitive advantage
“It is very important to have a balanced incoming business from various markets. […] The industry should be up to date with the ongoing state of the market and have some alternatives in place to prevent loss or reduction of a target market. If you win the confidence and loyalty of international markets, it will definitely grow the business and one can gain a competitive advantage.”
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[Our] strategy involves [...] strengthening our presence in traditional strongholds “Rotana’s growth strategy involves expanding into international markets [...] as well as strengthening our presence in traditional strongholds such as the GCC and the Middle East as a whole. This year, we will be opening two hotels in Saudi Arabia and two hotels in Qatar, and over the next five years nine new hotels will be added to our portfolio in the UAE. [...] We are also gearing up to open our first property in Congo later this year. New openings are also planned in Iraq, Jordan and Turkey this year.”
CLUSTER GENERAL MANAGER, RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES AJMAN AND RAMADA BEACH HOTEL AJMAN
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IFTIKHAR HAMDANI
CEO, ROTANA
OMER KADDOURI
TRAVEL TALK
[We are] targeting golf enthusiasts and corporate travellers
“Ajman continues to add new attractions like Al Zorah Golf Club, and we are maximising these developments to expand our reach by targeting golf enthusiasts and corporate travellers from different regions. 2015 was a successful year for us and we seek to maintain, if not surpass our achievements by proactively looking for new partnerships.”
MAY 2016
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RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
TRAVEL TRADE MENA: With Sharjah expecting 10 million visitors by 2021, how important is it to lure international markets? MICHAEL KASCH: [...] Sharjah’s positioning as an established family destination and the region’s cultural hub will continue to be strong influencers that attract tourists. Through new projects, Sharjah is tapping into niche markets and is appealing to the discerning traveller who is on the lookout for an overall enhanced experience. […]. The recent slump in the market has reinstated the importance of looking for opportunities in international markets. The competition is now fiercer and a keen eye for business is what will help achieve objectives. However, the overall outlook is positive and growth in guest numbers is anticipated. SCTDA has been at the forefront with focussed promotional campaigns in GCC countries as well as in growing tourism markets such as China, India and Europe.
TRAVEL TRADE MENA: What are your plans for the coming months? MICHAEL KASCH: Being in the fifth year of operation has strengthened our brand presence in Sharjah. Guest and colleague satisfaction is at an all-time high. [...] We continue to stay focussed on maintaining and further developing strong partnerships with stakeholders in the industry. Centro is a hotel concept that appeals to the new generation of travel executives who appreciate style, sophistication and value. It is the ultimate solution for smart travellers to Sharjah who do not want to compromise on style or quality. To deliver this long-drawn promise to our guests is where we will channel our resources. Rotana Rewards, our company-wide loyalty programme is also a priority. Offering our loyal guests special privileges [...] will be our way of thanking them for their trust. Guest satisfaction is of utmost priority and we are committed to go the extra mile.
MICHAEL KASCH GENERAL MANAGER, CENTRO SHARJAH
MICHAEL KASCH, GENERAL MANAGER, CENTRO SHARJAH, SHARES HIS VIEWS ON CHANGING MARKET TRENDS, GUEST LOYALTY AND TREASURED TIMES.
TRAVEL TRADE MENA: How have the past 12 months been for the hotel? MICHAEL KASCH: The year 2015 was a year of discovery and consequent adaptation to the changing market trends in Sharjah’s travel and hospitality Industry. Geopolitical instability and a plunge in the Russian Rouble saw a decline in visitors from CIS countries. Additionally, a slump in the Euro made a holiday to Europe more affordable for GCC travellers. Even though these factors had a direct impact on travelling patterns, a multitude of steps taken by the industry led by Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) and Sharjah Investment and Development Authority ensured that the number of guests visiting Sharjah remained on an upward trajectory. Markets like India, China and key European countries have showed great potential [...]. Being situated in close proximity to Sharjah International Airport continues to be a strategic advantage and Centro Sharjah rightfully serves as a gateway for tourists visiting the UAE. MAY 2016
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ADIL AL GHAITH is Emirates’ new senior vice president of commercial operations for the Gulf, Middle East and Iran. In this post, he will direct a number of the carrier’s segments in the region. Having been with Emirates for 17 years, Al Ghaith is a seasoned commercial executive in the Middle East as he has led markets like Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Yemen for several years. Previously, he had also held the position of vice president in Pakistan and senior vice president in North and West Africa for the airline.
Al Ghaith will oversee regional commercial operations
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ANISH KUTTAN
ADIL AL GHAITH
WHO’S MOVED
ANISH KUTTAN has been appointed executive assistant manager at Kempinski Hotel Ajman, where he will be in charge of food and beverage operations. With more than 14 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Kuttan started his career in 2002 at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh. He rapidly worked his way up the career ladder to numerous food and beverage management positions, prior to joining Kempinski Hotel Ajman in 2011 as assistant food and beverage manager. He was soon promoted in 2013 to the position of director of food and beverage. With his entrepreneurial performance, Kuttan has brought a number of large-scale functions to the property, driving top-line growth.
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LUCA MEDDA is the new general manager of Centro Capital Doha. With 26 years of experience in the hospitality industry – eight of which with Rotana – and having worked in Qatar, the UAE and Egypt, he possesses a strong understanding of the Middle Eastern market which is expected to be valuable in raising the level of guest services. Medda began his career in 1988 in Italy and later served in several countries, such as the UK, Germany, France, and Austria. His first tenure in the Middle East was in Qatar in 2001 with the opening team of The Ritz Carlton, Doha. He later worked in Egypt and the UAE, only to return to the Qatari capital with Oryx Rotana in 2012 as executive assistant manager.
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RAMI SAYESS
LUCA MEDDA
WHO’S MOVED
RAMI SAYESS has taken the helm at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut as general manager. At the same time, he will continue in his capacity as regional vice president overseeing hotels in Europe, Middle East and Africa. Being with the company since 2005, Sayess is returning to Lebanon, having spent some 30 years around the globe gaining a wealth of experience after managing luxury hotels and resorts in 15 countries. His Four Seasons journey has taken him from Jordan to Saudi Arabia, Thailand and most recently to Qatar where he has been regional vice president and general manager since 2013. Sayess looks to work closely with his team to ensure that the property remains a first choice in the country.
MAY 2016
NEWS
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Dubai Aims Higher than Burj Khalifa
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The Tower
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maar Properties revealed plans to build a USD1 billion skyscraper at Dubai Creek Harbour that will exceed the height of the iconic Burj Khalifa, currently the world’s tallest building. Creating a new skyline for the emirate, the upcoming landmark will be a notch taller than the 828m Burj Khalifa, which is set to be surpassed by Saudi Arabia’s 1km Kingdom Tower. Serving as the vibrant core of Dubai Creek Harbour, a 6km2 worldclass masterplanned development, The Tower is set to deliver a compelling destination, as Mohamed Alabbar, chairman, Emaar Properties, explained. “It will also position Dubai Creek Harbour as one of the most desired residential, leisure and touristic attractions, providing visitors and residents with a modern, luxurious and sustainable environment in which to live, work, learn and entertain,” added Alabbar. With construction works slated to start at the end of June and finish just in time for Expo 2020, the futuristic tower will offer 360-degree views of the city and beyond from its Pinnacle Room at the top. The structural core and tension cables will be dynamically illuminated and movement lighting will be used to enhance not only the visitor experience but also the view from outside. The VIP Observation Garden Decks will recreate the splendour of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and an engineering marvel will await guests at the fully glazed rotating balconies. Making the project a true tourist-magnet, a world-class boutique hotel will be also housed within the development.
MAY 2016
NEWS
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New Golf and Waterfront Project on Yas Island
Burj Al Arab Unveils Top-floor Bar
MAY 2016
Gold on 27
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bu Dhabi’s appeal is set to further increase with the launch of an AED6 billion (USD1.63 billion) golf and waterfront development on Yas Island. Yas Acres, an Aldar Properties venture, is set to add 1,315 villas on the northern shores of the destination with residents enjoying access to a nine-hole golf course and club house, yacht club, marina, parks, schools and a vibrant waterfront. As Abubaker Seddiq Al Khoori, chairman, Aldar Properties, explained, the project is in line with the emirate’s long-term vision for economic diversification. Upon completion, Yas Acres will be home to 15,000 residents.
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urj Al Arab Jumeirah has taken mixology to the next level – literally – with the launch of Gold on 27. Located on the highest floor of the hotel, the bar boasts views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s skyline, inviting guests to enjoy soulful music while sipping on their drink. “This venue has been 18 months in the making from concept to completion and represents an incomparable addition to Dubai’s nightlife,” explained Anthony McHale, general manager, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, claiming that the service levels and hospitality at Gold On 27 are second to none.
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to.
Three world-class skaters took over Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm to shoot awe inspiring footage
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is gearing up to unveil the Abu Dhabi Suite, the world’s highest suspended unit
Volunteers from Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, Dubai joined the World Down Syndrome Day walk
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PHOTO ALBUM
Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara opened a unique wellness centre
Abu Dhabi hosted American artist Tomyboy’s pieces of art at the Glow-In-The-Dark art exhibition
Etihad Airways highlighted the contribution of Emirati women on Al Ain Contact Centre’s fifth anniversary
City Centre Rotana presents Fisherman Night every Thursday
MAY 2016
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NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS
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ATM to Highlight Midmarket Travel
WTM CONNECT ASIA Penang, Malaysia May 18 – 20 www.wtmconnectasia.com A new event bringing together suppliers of southeast Asia to meet with outbound Chinese, southeast Asian and international hosted buyers.
Enhanced Security and Passenger Experience in the Spotlight
ILTM ASIA Shanghai, China May 30 – June 02 www.iltm.com An invitation-only event, where travel agents and advisors from across Asia meet the world’s very best luxury travel experiences.
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THE MEETINGS SHOW London, UK June 14 – 16 www.themeetingsshow.com A premier gathering for the UK inbound and outbound conference industry, organised by meeting professionals for meeting professionals.
FOOD & HOSPITALITY OMAN Muscat, Oman September 20 – 22 foodandhospitalityoman.com A business and networking platform promoting the latest products and services in the food and beverage sector.
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ollowing the success of Arabian Travel Market (ATM)’s 2015 theme of family travel, the focus of this year’s edition will be on midmarket tourism, hailed as a key area of opportunity for Middle East destinations. As tourism infrastructure across the Gulf and beyond continues on its high profile development path, attention has turned to the midmarket segment, explained Nadege NobletSegers, exhibition manager, ATM. “This has been identified as both an underdeveloped and potential growth area for the region, driven by demand from the growing middle class markets [...] combined with budget Generation Y travellers and young families,” added Noblet-Segers. A point of discussion will be the number of rooms entering the market, including the share planned in the four- and three-star classification.
s the Middle East continues to outpace global air traffic growth, airports in the region are investing millions of dollars in technology and system upgrades to provide a seamless passenger experience while ensuring utmost safety and security. According to the International Air Transport Association, the Middle East will welcome an additional 237 million passengers per year by 2034. As Obaid Muhair Bin Suroor, deputy director general, General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, Dubai, explained, the traditional methods that were implemented in the past for passport control are no longer efficient, thus, Dubai International is adopting smart technology, including 125 e-gates and smart gates. As per a Frost & Sullivan’s report, annual global spend on airport security is set to soar to USD12.67 billion in 2023 from USD8.22 billion in 2014. In light of the latest trends, the 16th edition of the Airport Show, which will be held between May 09 – 11 in Dubai, will bring together world-leading companies to showcase the latest safety and security solutions and products.
IFTM TOP RESA Paris, France September 20 – 23 www.iftm.fr Reed Expositions France puts together a happening that over the years has become multitarget market event for all travel types.
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