Travel Trade mena, September 2015, Issue 71 by Travel Trade Publications

SEPTEMBER 2015

ISSUE 71

VISIT: QATAR SPORT HAS THE POWER TO INSPIRE AND MOVE LARGE CROWDS, MAKING SPORTS TOURISM A STEADILY DEVELOPING SEGMENT IN THE REGION.

03 ONSITE: JEDDAH

12 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE

VISIT: QATAR

03 02 10

EXPLORE: ALGERIA ONSITE: JEDDAH EXCLUSIVE: SPORTS TRAVEL TOUR: SEYCHELLES TRAVEL TALK WHO’S MOVED RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS

04 12 09 15 16 18 20 21 21 22 22 23 23 24 24

EXCLUSIVE: Sports Travel

MARKET UPDATE

Abu Dhabi: Passenger Numbers up 17.2 Percent

TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli

Over 11.1 million travellers passed through Abu Dhabi International Airport in the first half of the year, 17.2 percent more than in the corresponding period in 2014.

SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba CONTRIBUTOR Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian Inna Armeanu DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670

ircraft movements rose 15 percent to approximately 85,000, while cargo activity soared 9.6 percent to more than 414,200 tonnes. As Mohamed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, CEO, Abu Dhabi Airports, pinpointed, the growth demonstrates how travellers increasingly see the UAE capital as a destination of choice and as a logical transit point on long journeys. “The Capacity Enhancement Program, which is helping us address the more immediate demands of the passenger growth, is on track as part of our commitment to deliver to our promise and present a unique travel experience, through implementing innovative solutions,” confirmed Al Mazrouei.

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WEBSITE www.traveltrademena.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel PRINTED IN CYPRUS Cyprinters Ltd P.O. Box 58300, CY-3732, Limassol, Cyprus Tel: +357 25 720035, Fax: +357 25 720123 Email: info@cyprinters.com

MENA EXCHANGE RATES As of 27/8/2015 Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar

COUNTRY

CURRENCY 1USD=

Bahrain (BHD)

Dinar

0.37

Jordan (JOD)

Dinar

0.71

Oman (OMR)

Rial

0.39

Qatar (QAR)

Rial

3.64

Saudi Arabia (SAR) Riyal

3.75

UAE (AED)

Dirham

3.67

Algeria (DZD)

Dinar

105.22

Egypt (EGP)

Pound

7.82

Iran (IRR)

Rial

29,930.00

Iraq (IQD)

Dinar

1,155.35

Kuwait (KWD)

Dinar

0.30

Lebanon (LBP)

Pound

1,517.21

Libya (LYD)

Dinar

1.36

Morocco (MAD)

Dirham

9.62

Syria (SYP)

Pound

188.82

Tunisia (TND)

Dinar

1.94

Yemen (YER)

Rial

214.89

SEPTEMBER 2015

VISIT QATAR

Work in Progress ONCE A QUIET FISHING AND PEARLING NATION, QATAR HAS OVER THE PAST YEARS HEAVILY INVESTED IN ITS TOURISM INDUSTRY TO BECOME ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST COMPETITIVE DESTINATIONS, AND THE BEST IS YET TO COME.

 Rita Kasziba writes

he small nation of just over two million has come a long way in a very short period of time with international arrivals to the country rising 91 percent since 2009, with an annual growth rate of 13.8 percent, as data compiled by Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) revealed. Initial estimates of the sector’s impact on the economy suggest that tourism directly contributed some USD3.7 billion to the national GDP in 2013, representing four percent of the state’s non-hydrocarbon economy and demonstrating the importance the Qatari government attaches to the sector. “Throughout the years, we have witnessed a very well-studied strategy SEPTEMBER 2015

by QTA that has boosted the tourism sector,” explained Georges Chemali, assistant director, sales, La Cigale Hotel, Doha. Likewise, Ali Moussa, director of sales, Grand Hyatt Doha, attributed much of the success to the authority’s relentless endeavours to unlock the industry’s potential by promoting 

QATAR IN BRIEF

Capital: Doha Currency: Qatari Riyal (QAR) Language: Arabic Population: 1.9 million Calling Code: +974 Capital Time Zone: GMT +3:00

VISIT QATAR

the destination to key feeder markets – those mainly being the GCC and Europe – through sales offices and international travel trade shows. In addition, as Moussa noted, having a national carrier that connects Doha with close to 150 business and leisure destinations

has given a major push to the industry’s development. In fact, looking behind the numbers, Qatar’s rise to fame on the global tourism stage is the result of a well-thought and well-executed choreography. The hydrocarbon-rich country has allocated

large sums of money and gathered enthusiastic professionals from around the globe to position itself as a worldclass hub with deep cultural roots, as Julian Crane, director of sales and marketing, Four Seasons Hotel Doha, said. “Culture, family, entertainment,

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WE WILL ALSO SEE A SIGNIFICANT GROWTH IN INVESTMENTS IN THE INFRASTRUCTURAL AND EXPERIENTIAL ASPECTS OF TOURISM business, sports, health and wellness, ecotourism and education have become key contributors to the increase of visitors. Couple this with the opening

of an ultra-modern airport, a national airline with a significant global reach and you have a solid foundation in place,” annotated Crane. As Nilam Zainukabdeen, front office manager, K108 Hotel, noted, the number of business and leisure travellers landing in the country is on the rise, and thanks to the available stopover packages and the country’s expanding offering, these visitors now tend to spend more time in Qatar. In fact, as Andreas Wissdorf, general manager, Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel, put it, Qatar is now playing in the big league, competing with major global destinations, especially when it comes to meetings and events. Statistics are testament to this as arrivals during the first half of the year already rose seven percent, paving the way to new records. “The mid-year performance numbers show a healthy growth in the sector and enormous potential for the industry,” suggested Hassan Al Ibrahim, chief tourism development officer, QTA, pinpointing that hoteliers have been determined to take advantage of the opportunity. “We will also see a significant growth in investments in the infrastructural and experiential aspects of tourism in the coming period to further capitalise on this potential and to further diversify Qatar’s offering,” added Al Ibrahim. WIND OF CHANGE In light of the Qatari tourism industry’s exponential growth over the years, it came as no surprise that the World Economic Forum (WEF) ranked it as the second most competitive travel and tourism destination in MENA. Al Ibrahim deemed WEF’s results encouraging, 

SEPTEMBER 2015

VISIT QATAR pinpointing that the Qatari tourism sector is still in its early stage of development. Reflecting the country’s fast-paced transformation, most of the attractions that have now become landmarks in the country, have just emerged on the horizon – at least in the form they are known today – over the past decade, including the Museum of Islamic Art, Villaggio Mall, Katara Cultural Village, Souq Waqif and, of course, Hamad International Airport (HIA). Over the years, Qatar has invested in both infrastructure and human capital and today tourism provides over 61,000 jobs in the country. As the destination continues its steady march toward new milestones, it aims to achieve an average tourism spending of USD10.7 billion by 2030, a landmark year, by which, as stated in the Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy, the country targets 7.4 million arrivals – roughly equal to three and a half times the state’s current population; increasing the industry’s economical impact to 5.1 percent. As Lana Jwainat, cluster director, marketing and communications, City Centre Rotana Doha and Oryx Rotana Doha, noted, Qatar is to inject an estimated USD17 billion in tourism-related infrastructure projects over the next five years, and add some 60,000 rooms ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Jwainat reminded that with more than 20 accommodation establishments under construction or in the planning stage, Qatar boasts the third largest pipeline of hotels in the region. Demand, so far, has continued to outpace supply with overall occupancy rates averaging at 77 percent in the first half of the year, despite the addition of some 1,400 rooms during the same period. Since the beginning of the year, 11 new hotels have come online, including five five-star properties, one fourstar and five three-star establishments, and in the coming months, more than 10 more properties with around 2,500 units are expected to open their doors, creating an even stiffer competition in the market. There is no denial that at some point, saturation might pose challenges to the hotel sector, suggested Enas Boughanmi, sales and marketing manager, Zubarah Hotel, Doha, saying that, “It does not seem to be coming in the near future as the population and the growth of the

country is increasing at a much faster rate than what it has to deliver.” Crane expects occupancy rates to somewhat flatten in two or three years’ time, when supply is likely to outpace demand, in the long run, however, as infrastructure continues to develop, the tourism industry is set to grow from strength to strength. To support the industry’s development, Chemali called on the relevant authorities to ease visa restrictions in order to drive demand, and consequently, business results across the wider sector. Tapping into new markets is in fact imperative if Qatar is to successfully balance demand and supply. To meet the requirements of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), Qatar will need to have 60,000 rooms by 2022, yet according to a Deloitte report, considering the past years’ growth rate in demand, the country will only be able to support approximately 38,000 units in total, assuming a target minimum occupancy of 60 percent. To maintain healthy performance levels for 60,000 rooms, a 16 percent demand growth rate is needed, and this, as Deloitte warns, can only be achieved with significant investment and improvements in infrastructure and offerings. In lights of these, Qatar is on a quest to widen its scope and elevate its image to the next level on the global tourism stage, and efforts have already begun to bear fruits. Based on QTA’s figures, over the past months, the four-star and standards apartment segments have performed particularly well, reflecting the changing profile of Qatar’s clientele. Yet, the GCC still remains the main feeder market of the country, having showed a 16 percent growth in arrivals in the first six months of the year, driven by a 25 percent jump in demand from Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, figures from France, China and the US, Qatar’s top three international markets outside the GCC, also continued to soar eight, seven and six percent respectively, demonstrating the destination’s rising global profile. As Boughanmi revealed, at Zubarah Hotel, Doha, for every 44 business travellers, there is one leisure guest, ideally however, the Doha market should achieve a homogenous mix with an approximate 60:40 ratio. Nevertheless, there has already been a notable shift as Nadia  SEPTEMBER 2015

VISIT QATAR Davare, public relations and marketing executive, Doha Marriott Hotel, noted. “Over the past few years there has been a big change towards pleasurable business, where families and partners travel with delegates or join them whilst on business,” explained Davare,

saying the much-anticipated 2022 FIFA World Cup has already began to create a buzz with more and more construction and industrial companies as well as airlines setting up business in the country, which, with the opening of HIA, has established itself as a transit hub, creating future opportunities for organisations to tap into this latent segment by offering stopover packages to encourage tourists to explore the location. In addition, as Davare suggested, QTA is also keen on fostering relationships with external travel agencies to lure a wider pool of travellers and ultimately support travel and tourism’s development. According to Boughanmi, as the industry continues to mature, Qatar will boast a more diverse offering with its foray into medical, cultural, sports and other niche segments. Similar views were voiced by Wissdorf, who referred to the importance of adequate marketing and branding, saying that Qatar has a lot to offer and the challenge is to succeed in drawing attention to the country’s diverse tourism product. “With focus on the right segments, the future seems very promising,” attested Wissdorf, throwing the spotlight on leisure, business and sports tourism and

up-market transit points; all of which could propel the industry’s growth. “Qatar’s focus has conventionally targeted the luxury segment with a concentrated focus on quality, as opposed to large numbers. This will in turn boost revenues from tourists from

this May, passenger numbers soared to 28 million, marking a 23.6 percent surge over the corresponding period in 2013-14 at Doha International Airport. Demonstrating Qatar’s rising profile, the airfield now accommodates 36

duty free area, while the two-storeyhigh cargo building boasts a capacity to handle 1.4 million tonnes per year. “Our future development strategy will focus on increased capacity and additional facilities,” revealed Badr Mohammed Al Meer, chief operating officer, HIA. “The development of our core aviation facilities is based on forecasts of passenger, aircraft growth figures and key performance indicators relating to service levels, which will all dictate our development plan.” The opening of HIA has also helped unlock Qatar Airways’ immense potential. The national carrier’s fast-paced expansion into well-established, as well as emerging markets, over the past 18 years has played a crucial role in the diversification of the country’s clientele. By connecting Doha with not only key business but also lucrative leisure gateways, Qatar has opened up new horizons, significantly improving the country’s corporate – leisure ratio and ensuring more steady business flow around the year. In recent years, an average of 12

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WITH FOCUS ON THE RIGHT SEGMENTS, THE FUTURE SEEMS VERY PROMISING

Gulf states and around the world,” concluded Wissdorf. THE STATE OF THE ART The launch of the state-of-the-art HIA was a key milestone in Qatar’s quest to harness its economic and social potential. During the airport’s first full year of operations, between June 2014 and

airlines which completed over 193,000 aircraft movements over the past year. HIA is not only one of the region’s latest airports, but also one of the most impressive and most customer-centric hubs in the world. Covering 600,000m2, the passenger terminal complex is equal to 75 FIFA-sized football pitches, and houses 138 check-in counters and a 400,000m2

new destinations have been added to the airline’s global network and today, the national carrier operates a fleet of over 160 passenger and cargo aircraft with more than 320 planes on order books worth some USD70 billion. As Qatar continues its steadfast development, the country is expected to reach wider markets, suggested Davare. “Over the upcoming years, we believe that Qatar’s tourism industry will [present] a higher percentage of leisure travellers from the Western and European countries. As of now Qatar is still developing its infrastructure and transportation facilities. I believe once this is completed it will be more attractive for visitors to come and experience the Qatari landmarks and culture.”  SEPTEMBER 2015

EXPLORE ALGERIA

A Lonesome Nomad DESPITE VAST PROGRESS WITNESSED IN ALGERIA’S ECONOMIC SCENE, MAINLY DRIVEN BY A STRONG OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY, THE GROWTH HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH TOURISM, A FACT THAT IS NOW OBVIOUS AND MADE THE SECTOR A TOP PRIORITY FOR THE GOVERNMENT.

 Maria Kazeli writes

n the 53 years since its independence, Algeria’s tourism industry has remained underdeveloped despite its varied attractions and the huge potential. Competition from neighbouring Tunisia and Morocco, which have throughout the years managed to secure the largest numbers of visitors arriving to the coasts of North Africa, is disproportionate. According to the latest data collected by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), in 2013, Algeria welcomed 2.73 million travellers, registering a year-on-year rise of 3.7 percent; the numbers, however, cannot be matched with Morocco’s and Tunisia’s incoming tourist influx which climbed to 10.05 million and 6.27 million, respectively. As Antoine Jaulain, director of sales, Le Méridien Oran Hotel & Convention Centre, confirmed, year after year the government is launching various initiatives to develop the hospitality sector. He emphasised that in sprite of these,

the destination is facing serious challenges such as strict visa requirements and regional instability. The role of tourism in Algeria’s economy is set to follow an upward path, although this is most likely to happen at a slow pace, a fact corroborated

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THE A330’S UNMATCHED PROFITABILITY [...] ALLOW US TO PURSUE THE DEVELOPMENT OF AFFORDABLE SERVICES

by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The authority reported that in 2013, tourism directly contributed four percent to the country’s GDP, and this figure is forecasted to have climbed to 4.2 percent in 2014. WTTC predictions are quite optimis-

tic for the future, as by 2024 it is expected that the number of visitors arriving in Algeria will rise to 3.15 million, generating an expenditure of DZD32.6 billion (USD319.47 million). LOOKING TOWARDS A BRIGHT FUTURE As per data cited by Oxford Business Group, Algeria’s existing capacity stands at 100,000 beds, while, following relevant authorisations given by the Ministry of Tourism and Handicraft, by 2020 some 870 new hotels are being planned; this translates to 90,000 additional beds. With the country’s infrastructure up for a major boost and the support of governmental authorities, international as well as European hospitality stakeholders are aiming to explore the destination’s possibilities. According to Wolfgang Neumann, president, The Rezidor Hotel Group, Algeria is a country with considerable growth potential where the company aims to further strengthen its core brand presence with Radisson Blu and Park Inn by Radisson. The first project

ALGERIA IN BRIEF

Capital: Algiers Currency: Algerian Dinar (DZD) Language: Arabic Population: 39.5 million Calling Code: +213 Capital Time Zone: GMT +1:00

SEPTEMBER 2015

EXPLORE ALGERIA

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YEAR AFTER YEAR THE GOVERNMENT IS LAUNCHING VARIOUS INITIATIVES

of the group in Algeria is the 138-room Radisson Blu Hotel, Algiers Hydra. Expected to open in 2016, the upper upscale property will be prominently located in the Hydra Commune, less than 20km from the capital’s international airport. With the region considered vital for the company, this month Marriott International is preparing to launch the 244key Constantine Marriott Hotel. Moreover, in October, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide will welcome SEPTEMBER 2015

Four Points by Sheraton Oran which is designed to become a home away from home, hosting guests in 170 contemporary rooms. In addition, Spain-based group Barceló Hotels & Resorts signed deals for two hotels in Algeria which are due to come online by 2016. One of the developments will be in collaboration with the local Rania Land Sarl and will see the construction of a four-star property in Skikda to be managed by the Spanish company for 15 years. ON THE CLOUDS AND ABOVE With data from EGSA Alger revealing that 1.43 million passengers passed through the 18 airports operated by the company, it is clear that Algeria’s air traffic is also on the rise; mainly due to demand by European carriers. Swiss International Air Lines is ex-

panding is services from Geneva to include a new year-round nonstop route to Algiers which launched in the beginning of the summer season. Moreover, Belgian Jetairfly now operates from Brussels to Tlemcen and Constantine, once a week to each destination. In addition, Air Malta announced the opening of a new route to its second Algerian destination, Oran, with Joseph Galea, deputy chief commercial officer, Air Malta, commenting that the move follows the good response which the Algiers service has enjoyed since its commencement in June 2013. According to a report by Euromonitor International, the country’s flag carrier, Air Algérie is fighting the growing competition posed by international airlines which enter Algeria, by purchasing more aircraft. This is substantiated by the recent announcement of three new Airbus A330-200 that will soon be delivered to the North African carrier and will join Air Algérie’s existing fleet of Airbus made up of five A330s. As Mohamed Salah Boultif, CEO, Air Algérie, said, “The A330’s unmatched profitability and unrivalled operating costs allow us to pursue the development of affordable services while offering our passengers the advantages of a top-of-the-range cabin.” The new and completely redesigned jet includes the latest generation in-flight entertainment system and more spacious seats, accommo-

dating 18 passengers in business, 14 in premium economy and 219 in economy class. The aircraft is renowned for best meeting the needs of airlines in terms of capacity and range in the mediumto long-haul segment, commented John Leahy, chief operating officer, customers, Airbus, backing beliefs that the carrier is now placing its bids on the long-haul market. 

ONSITE JEDDAH

Gateway to Luxury PROVIDING PRINCIPAL ACCESS TO MECCA, JEDDAH BOASTS AN ENVIOUS GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION AND LOOKS TO A GREAT FUTURE WITH THE GOVERNMENTAL AS WELL AS THE PRIVATE SECTOR HAVING MANY PROJECTS IN STOCK FOR THE RED SEA DESTINATION.

 Maria Kazeli writes

ith more than two million visitors arriving annually to the city to experience the festivals held throughout the year, Jeddah is a destination that invites both leisure and religious tourists. Situated on the shores of the Red Sea and less than 100km from the Holy City of Mecca, Jeddah is a combination of both worlds. In addition to its strategic commercial and historical role, Jeddah enjoys a fine location and remains a favourable holiday destination for many travellers over weekends and during public holidays, as Bassam Abu Laban, hotel manager, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Jeddah, confirmed.

JEDDAH IN BRIEF

Country: Saudi Arabia Currency: Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR) Language: Arabic Population: 3.46 million Calling Code: +966

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INTERNATIONAL VISITORS WILL DEFINITELY INCREASE IN THE FUTURE DUE TO SEVERAL MEGA PROJECTS

Time Zone: GMT +3:00

“The number of international visitors will definitely increase in the future due to several mega projects in addition to Jeddah being close to Mecca which attracts pilgrims from all over the Muslim countries around the world,” agreed Walid Haidar, director of sales and marketing, Assila Hotel and Resi-

dence, the much-anticipated property to be launched in the coming months by Rocco Forte Hotels. Indeed, with the construction industry flourishing in Jeddah, the city is evolving at a rapid rate with projects that aim to attract sustainable tourism, investment and business growth whilst SEPTEMBER 2015

ONSITE JEDDAH also reinforcing its position as the gateway to Mecca and Medina, as Elliott Rizk, business development manager, MICE Arabia, suggested. The group is, amongst others, the organiser of The Big 5 Saudi, an international building and construction show which has gone from strength to strength over the past four years, according to Rizk, who also underlined that, “With the investment rates in Saudi Arabia spiking, Jeddah has benefitted from the nation’s efforts to enrich its social, economic and urban status.” According to Abu Laban, multiple government infrastructure plans, such as the Jeddah Metro, the Saudi Landbridge project and the upcoming King Abdulaziz International Airport, are also springing out across the city, resulting in the positive advancement of the hospitality sector which steps in to cater to local and international business travellers, as well as to local and year-round pilgrim visits. In line with the government initiatives, the coastal destination is also about to welcome a major addition to its growing skyline, with The Kingdom City which will host the over 1km-tall Kingdom Tower. Rising higher than the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the gigantic edifice will feature 170 storeys, seven of which will be allocated for a five-star 200-room Four Seasons hotel and 11 of those will host 121 luxury serviced apartments. Mounib Hammoud, CEO, Jeddah Economic Company, developer of The Kingdom City, enthused, “With the rise

SEPTEMBER 2015

of The Kingdom Tower and City, Jeddah will soon have a skyline that will identify the city’s position as an urban and business destination. The project is happening and the whole master plan has been revamped to have a mixed-used development with all the components, creating an urban fabric with office, retail, hotels and residential accommodation.” Hammoud confirmed that the first parts of the structure will be open and

operational in 2018, giving Jeddah a new downtown with the world’s tallest tower that will bring pride and prestige to the Kingdom, as he added. LUXURY-BOUND Aligned with the vast developments coming online in Jeddah’s expanding scene, the city’s hospitality sector is bound for the stars, with 40 hotels to-

talling 8,000 rooms due to enter the market by 2019. This was attested by a recent Jones Lang LaSalle study, which reported that the segments expected to experience the most disturbance are the luxury and upper upscale ones, as more than 70 percent of new rooms are classified as four- or five-star and are internationally branded. With the same source revealing that Jeddah remains a very strong 

ONSITE JEDDAH

hospitality market with healthy occupancy levels and the third highest average daily rate (ADR) in the region, after Dubai and Riyadh, hoteliers make sure that the city is geared towards high-end properties and put their bids on extravagance. “The market trend has been changing and is heading towards luxury hotels. We have taken all that into consideration and will reflect that by applying our natural approach, management expertise, consistent food quality and luxury service standards,” commented Haidar on the upcoming launch of Assila Hotel and Residence, which is hailed as the first European luxury brand opening in Jeddah. He added that the city has a low supply of luxury hotels but demand is high, therefore Assila Hotel and Residence is coming to fill the void and become an icon of opulence. The coming months will also see the inauguration of The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah which will feature 224 guest rooms, including 30 exquisitely laid-out royal suites spanning 500m2 each. Designed to cater to a diverse range of visitors, from short-stay business guests to large wedding groups, the hotel aims to also serve as the perfect showcase of Saudi hospitality situated over 32,370m2 of land on Al Hamra Corniche. Another upscale offering to be soon revealed are three properties by The As-

Hotel Management is to take over the management and operation of a luxury hotel and residences development in Jeddah which will be the first project of the company in Saudi Arabia and is slated to open in early 2018. The 242-room property will be in a 65-storey development located on Jeddah Corniche Road facing the Red Sea. The luxury trend does not only apply to accommodation since recently Qatar Airways launched a new daily all-

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THE MARKET TREND HAS BEEN CHANGING AND IS HEADING TOWARDS LUXURY

cott Limited. Citadines Al Salamah, Ascott Sari and Ascott Tahlia will provide a diverse selection of spacious and stylish accommodation, complete with the com-

pany’s unique and personalised services, commented Vincent Miccolis, area general manager, GCC, The Ascott Limited. Moreover, Shangri-La International

first-class service from Doha to Jeddah. Commenting on the new route, Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “The demand for premium group travel continues to grow […] and therefore we have introduced this all-premium [Airbus] A319 to Jeddah further strengthening Qatar Airways’ position as a five-star airline.”  SEPTEMBER 2015

EXCLUSIVE SPORTS TRAVEL

GET ON THE MOVE!

SPORT HAS THE POWER TO INSPIRE PEOPLE AND ACTIONS, IMPROVE LIVES AND MOVE LARGE CROWDS, MAKING SPORTS TOURISM A STEADILY DEVELOPING SEGMENT; ONE, WHICH IS SET FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE IN THE REGION.

 Rita Kasziba writes

his year, an estimated global TV audience of 180 million in over 200 territories around the world tuned in to follow the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Champions League final, hailed as the most watched annual sporting event. Reflective of modern trends, the game created a real buzz on the social media as well with 28 million football fans SEPTEMBER 2015

getting involved in 76 million Facebook interactions related to the game. The astonishing numbers underscore how popular sporting events create momentum and leave a lasting legacy for the host nation that extends well beyond the direct economic impact of these competitions. “International sporting events attract attention from all over the world. [It] is a platform for the media and general public to observe and give their opinion and at the same time promote the country,” highlighted Ray Stopforth, director of

golf, Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club. Global TV exposure is indeed priceless, supported Faisal Al Sheikh, director of events bureau, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), saying that the impact of footage shot during the UAE capital’s sporting events, particularly its golf tournaments, and beamed around the world cannot be underestimated. Similar views were voiced by Anthony Miley, golf operations manager, golf services, Doha Golf Club, who praised the efforts of regional sports federations,

government bodies and events companies to stage remarkable competitions. “As well as the golf tournaments and sporting events, we also have two Formula 1 races in the region […]. These types of events have global appeal and cannot fail to raise the profile of the region,” claimed Miley. In fact, the world’s most popular motorsport competition, the Formula 1 world championship is being watched by more than 450 million people throughout the season, with the final leg in the UAE capital attracting particularly strong interest. 

EXCLUSIVE SPORTS TRAVEL According to TCA Abu Dhabi’s data, demand this year is expected to be at an all-time high following 2014’s recordbreaking, sell-out race weekend when more than 60,000 fans enjoyed the high-pitched whine of the engines at Yas Marina Circuit, 44 percent of whom arrived from overseas, demonstrating the destination’s rising profile on international level. This year, TCA Abu Dhabi is enticing F1 fans with the tagline Go Beyond, encouraging them to enjoy the emirate’s plethora of entertainment and hospitality options beyond the track. Industry experts agree that the impact of sporting events goes well beyond the narrow timeframe of the specific competition. As Andreas Wissdorf, general manager, Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel, noted, the 2022 FIFA World Cup offers an unprecedented opportunity for the nation to showcase itself. “An event of such magnitude can only strengthen Qatar’s profile as a host for sporting events in the long

run, thereby guaranteeing a constant stream of visitors,” suggested Wissdorf. ON YOUR MARKS Over the past years, Qatar has already taken vigorous steps to be noticed on the world sports tourism stage by proving its ability to host large-scale competitions and by committing to future developments, both financially as well as professionally.

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INTERNATIONAL SPORTING EVENTS ATTRACT ATTENTION FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD

Aspire Zone has earned a reputation for its state-of-the-art facilities and services with The Torch Doha playing regularly host to some of the world’s greatest athletes. “Being strategically situated in Doha’s sports city, sports tourism plays an important role in achieving the hotel’s target,” admitted Sherif Sabry, hotel manager, The Torch Doha, saying that being regarded as a superb location for sports helps attract not only sportsmen but also those attending tournaments, trainings and pre-competition camps, as well as people arriving for sports

conferences, various research projects or even treatments – pointing to sports tourism’s far-reaching ripple effect. As Sabry revealed, the management works hand-in-hand with Aspire Zone and Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) to further boost the sector and, at the same time, encourage residents, especially the younger generation, to engage in sports activities and adapt a healthier lifestyle. To unlock the latent potential of the market, QTA teamed up with Josoor Institute to highlight the impact of sporting events and find ways of building huSEPTEMBER 2015

EXCLUSIVE SPORTS TRAVEL

man capacities in the field. “In Qatar, we are preparing not only to host the region’s first FIFA World Cup but countless other global, Asian and MENA region high-profile sporting and non-sporting events,” explained Mushtaq Al-Waeli, executive director, Josoor Institute, reminding that in the past months, the state has staged a number of international competitions from handball to swimming championships. “These are all important opportunities that must be fully maximised and they widen the scope of operations for SEPTEMBER 2015

the tourism industry,” supported Al-Waeli. As Josoor Institute continues to train people who will help deliver large-scale sporting and non-sporting functions before and long after 2022, QTA and the organisation’s workshops focus on the role that hotels, tour operators, events organisers and other industry players can play in the successful implementation of such programmes and the benefits these can bring to them in return. “The Qatar National Tourism Strategy 2030 recognises that Qatar has outstanding attractions for sports and leisure tourism,” said Rashed Al Qurese, chief marketing and promotions officer, QTA. “We constantly work to build on Qatar’s established reputation as a global sports hub, while actively promoting leisure tourism […].” Qatar is injecting large sums into projects directly or indirectly related to sports tourism with a keen focus on developments that can benefit the country in the long run. As per the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA)’s guidelines, by 2022, Qatar must have a minimum of 60,000

A WIN-WIN SITUATION Infrastructure is certainly crucial to attract sports enthusiasts as Al Sheikh noted, referring to the UAE capital’s reputation as a world-class golf hotspot and pinpointing that the destination is now home to six of the world’s 40,000 courses where an estimated 80 million golfers play annually. “The Golf in Abu Dhabi product is something we can be truly proud of,” said Al Sheikh, revealing that the challenge is to ensure that the charms of Abu Dhabi’s golf offering reach more than those 80 million fans who contribute to an annual multi-billion dollar golf-tourism market globally. The UAE capital is, however, already making headway. In 2014, the six courses hosted over 139,000 rounds of golf, of which overseas guests accounted for close to 21,000 rounds, up from just above 6,670 in 2011, highlighting the growing international appetite and appreciation of Abu Dhabi’s product. “Golfers are people who actively seek out and enjoy premium travel ex-

segment for any destination. Likewise from humble beginnings, Oman has also established itself as a must-see destination for golf-enthusiasts from within MENA as well as Europe, especially Eastern Europe, noted Stopforth, claiming that with infrastructure in place and expertise at disposal, the Sultanate has the potential to further elevate its position. In fact, besides the obvious and wide-spreading benefits of large-scale tournaments, amateur sport enthusiasts can also largely contribute to the destination’s success, as it has been proven by Jordan, and especially the Kingdom’s least populous areas which heavily rely on tourism. “Jordan is a great country and it offers adventure for young and old,” noted Carmen Al Mashaileh – Scholten, general manager, In2Jordan Travel Agency that offers a range of services to thrill-seekers as well as nature lovers. “The country’s tourism industry has great chances to develop the adventure possibilities even further,”

rooms in operation, nevertheless, in its bid document the country pledged to build as many as 100,000 units by the time the tournament kicks off. Based on QTA’s data, since the beginning of the year, some 1,400 rooms have been added to the destination’s inventory with 2,500 more expected to come online before year-end, bringing the state closer to the FIFA limit. Just like in any other host city, this of course also brings along a range of infrastructural and service sector developments to ensure that Qatar will be able to balance demand and supply well beyond 2022.

periences and that is something Abu Dhabi is well-positioned to offer,” as Al Sheikh put it. “The Golf in Abu Dhabi initiative is seen as a core component in [the destination’s] evolution. We are confident once golfers experience what Abu Dhabi has to offer – and not just the great golf – they will return again and again and become vital word-ofmouth ambassadors.” Miley concurred, noting that although golf has never been more accessible and affordable, golfers are still prepared to pay if the product is worth it, making the market a highly valuable

insisted Al Mashaileh – Scholten, adding that it has also proven to be an effective way to entice travellers for a second visit. Demonstrating the marketing value and the mobilising power of sport, led by the three large Gulf carriers, regional industry players are allocating million dollar budgets to get their names closely associated with some of the most popular teams and athletes and see their logos in their stadiums. As Stopforth put it, “Sport in all sectors brings nations together in a competitive yet peaceful way.” 

TOUR SEYCHELLES  Ana Mladenovic writes

fer double-daily flights between Seychelles and the UAE.” Also in July, the Seychellois flag carrier further expanded its MENA reach by adding Cairo to its codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways and placing its flight code on a daily service operated by the UAE national airline between the Egyptian capital and Abu Dhabi. “This is an exciting development which enhances the travel connections between Seychelles and Egypt, the most populous country in North Africa, with an estimated 87 million residents,” said Kinnear, stressing that the outbound tourism market in Egypt is growing and Egyptian business and

he MENA region is a very vital factor in the success of Seychelles as a destination, as Ahmed Fathallah, regional manager, Seychelles Tourism Office Middle East, confirmed. He added that the GCC region is slowly climbing to the top, being the third strongest feeder market for the destination with more than 11,000 UAE visitors from January to July. This marks a surge of 58 percent year-onyear, while other markets in the region jumped 22 percent during the period. “Word of mouth is a vital cog for Emiratis, GCC nationals and expatriates to try and visit one destination. With this positive growth, it can be said that many more travellers from these areas will be enticed to visit the Seychelles,” Fathallah enthused. STRENGTHENING MENA LINKS Fathallah’s growth predictions are supported by a number of new routes opened up by Air Seychelles through its partner and major shareholder Etihad Airways, to link the archipelago with the Middle East and the GCC. As of July 1, the combined number of return flights between Mahé, the country’s main island, and Abu Dhabi,

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SOME 8,646 EMIRATI NATIONALS HAVE VISITED THE SEYCHELLES IN THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR

Bountiful Prospects

SEYCHELLES IN BRIEF

Capital: Victoria Currency: Seychellois Rupee (SCR) Language: Creole, English & French Population: 90,000 Calling Code: +248 Capital Time Zone: GMT +4:00

operated by both carriers, increased to 14 per week, offering more than 3,800 seats on the route. “Some 8,646 Emirati nationals have visited the Seychelles in the first half of this year,” said Roy Kinnear, CEO, Air Seychelles. “In response to such strong travel demand, […] we have worked with Etihad Airways to enhance our combined schedules and together of-

WITH THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SEYCHELLES AND THE UAE GROWING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH, AND NEW AIR LINKS LINKING THE ARCHIPELAGO WITH THE MENA REGION, THE DESTINATION IS SLOWLY BUT STEADILY DEVELOPING INTO A LUXURY HOTSPOT FOR ARAB HOLIDAY-MAKERS.

leisure travellers now have one-stop access to the Seychelles archipelago via Abu Dhabi. Earlier in February, Air Seychelles also added Casablanca to its network in the same way in a bid to get a share of Morocco’s outbound tourism market, which is expected to exceed 450,000 this year. During the same month, it also SEPTEMBER 2015

TOUR SEYCHELLES extended its reach to Amman, having placed its code on 14 weekly Etihad Airways’ flights between Abu Dhabi and the Jordanian capital. In addition to these, the partnership between the two airlines also enables travellers from Jeddah, Riyadh, Muscat, Bahrain and Kuwait to easily reach Mahé with a single stop in Abu Dhabi. REFRESHED HOSPITALITY Famed for its luxurious hotels and resorts, the local hospitality scene has recently welcomed a host of new players, some of which are already popular among MENA travellers. One of these

is the four-star AVANI Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa, set on the quieter west coast of Mahé. “As a newly-opened hotel since February 2, we are receiving a mix of different nationalities, mostly from Middle East and Europe,” said Anna Pothin, sales and marketing manager, AVANI Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa, highlighting that the resort is seeing a diverse clientele of honeymooners and families travelling with children. “[We have a] consistent presence on the market in terms of special offers and promotions,” she added. Another new gem that is poised to be a favourite amongst MENA visitors is H Resort Beau Vallon Beach, opened by Dubai-based hotel chain, H Hotels, in August. Located beside the popular Beau Vallon bay on Mahé, the resort boasts a collection of 84 suites and 16 villas with private pools, 

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AS A NEWLYOPENED HOTEL SINCE FEBRUARY 2, WE ARE RECEIVING A MIX OF DIFFERENT NATIONALITIES

SEPTEMBER 2015

TOUR SEYCHELLES ideal for privacy-seeking Arab travellers and families. Other prestigious properties that are being awaited include the luxurious Six Senses Zil Pasyon, scheduled to open this year on the private island of Félicité, and the four-star Carana Beach boutique hotel, set to be unveiled in early 2016.

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THIS YEAR, OUR TARGET [FOR] VISITOR ARRIVALS IS 21,000 AND WE ARE AIMING FOR 23,000 IN 2016

OUTLOOK TO THE FUTURE “This year, our target [for] visitor arrivals is 21,000 and we are aiming for 23,000 in 2016. We are planning to have a 10 percent increase in our target number of arrivals,” Fathallah revealed. “We have planned marketing activities to meet our strategy to better po-

sition [ourselves] and penetrate each market and increase the awareness of the Seychelles. This year, our main marketing focus is to be consumer-based in order to attract more visitors to the destination,” he explained. In order to reach consumers in the region, but also its trade, the Seychellois tourism stakeholders were present at several events and exhibitions in Leb-

anon, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Dubai. To communicate with regional travel agents, the office is also conducting sales calls in the region, and has recently hosted a fam trip for UAE agents. “We are also working for the upcoming fam trips in the region from [this month] onwards,” Fathallah confirmed, adding that a media and press trip is also in the loop as such exposure is considered

essential to further increase the number of visit to the Seychelles from this region. “For 2016, we are already communicating with different companies for a possible collaboration, exploring other opportunities to adapt with the changing trends in the travel industry and planning to participate in different niche events in the region that could help us reach the market,” he concluded. 

SEPTEMBER 2015

TRAVEL TALK

[We will] open the doors of Dubai Parks and Resorts [...] in October 2016

RAED AL NUAIMI CEO, Dubai Parks and Resorts

“We are confident in our ability to open the doors of Dubai Parks and Resorts to its first visitors in October 2016 to support Dubai’s Tourism Vision of attracting 20 million visitors a year by 2020. [...] Riverland Dubai will be the main grand entrance to the destination as well as the central meeting point for visitors from all of our parks. It will feature over 50 dedicated outlets and is expected to attract a significant amount of visitors from the various elements of the destination.”

We just introduced our new sky-bar

HERVE PEYRE General manager, Swiss-Belhotel Seef Bahrain

“There are a number of attributes which makes Swiss-Belhotel Seef the perfect choice when travelling to Bahrain. The location is great […]. All our bedrooms are large – up to 53m2 – and benefit from city or sea view. We pride ourselves to deliver a consistent and superior quality of service. Our biggest asset is our friendly and attentive employees who are doing their best to go the extra mile to please our guests. We just introduced our new sky-bar B28 located on the 28th floor of the hotel with spectacular views of the city.”

The future depends on our success in the digital [world]

ANDREAS WISSDORF General manager, Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel

“The future depends on our success in the digital [world]. With the growing competition, there will be need for a continued investment in technology, a crucial element in today’s world. Marriott International has fully embraced this and we are constantly innovating and improving our guest services through the use of technology. Some new key features [...] at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel include mobile check-in and check-out, mobile guest services, meetings imagined and meetings services application.”

TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

SEPTEMBER 2015

WHO’S MOVED

RAMI MOUKARZEL

Rami Moukarzel has joined Louvre Hotels Group as vice president of development and acquisitions for MENA. Moukarzel will focus on further consolidating the company’s presence in the region to ensure that it remains a leading mid and upscale operator in the long run. Having started his career in the industry in 2002, Moukarzel has held various operational roles in Beirut, Paris and Dubai over the past years. He spent seven years with FRHI Hotels & Resorts where he progressed from development manager for Europe, Middle East and Africa to head the growth strategy of the group in Middle East and Africa as vice president of development.

ATHANASSIOS MANOS

NADIA BEAULIEU

Athanassios Manos has been named general manager at Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea. With more than 18 years of experience gained over the years in Greece, Croatia and Bulgaria, his know-how covers food and beverage, sales, marketing and revenue. Previously, he held the position of general manager at Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko, Bulgaria. He also worked in Sofia Hotel Balkan, Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan in Bulgaria, Dubrovnik Palace in Croatia and more. In Jordan, his main mission is to continue positioning the hotel as the premium luxury brand in Aqaba while embedding true Jordanian hospitality with European flair.

Nadia Beaulieu has been selected as Jumeirah Emirates Towers’ new director of sales and marketing. Beaulieu joins Jumeirah Group from Marriott International where she served as director of sales and marketing at a number of properties, including London Park Lane Marriott. In 2007, she led the sales and marketing team, at Fairmont Towers, Heliopolis in Egypt and she also worked at Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino as well as at Renaissance Cairo Mirage City. Most recently she played a key role in the launch of Habtoor Grand Dubai, Marriott International’s first Autograph Collection property in the Middle East. In her capacity, Beaulieu will oversee all sales and marketing activities for Jumeirah Emirates Tower.

Beaulieu brings extensive experience to the table 22

SEPTEMBER 2015

RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE MENA: Qatar Airways operates one of the youngest fleets in the world with a total of 163 aircraft and has more than 320 planes on order worth over USD70 billion. In addition, in the past years, Qatar Airways has added an average of 12 destinations per year to its network. Can we expect a similarly fast-paced expansion in the coming year? AKBAR AL BAKER: Qatar Airways’ network spans the entire globe, with more than 150 destinations across six continents. The routes that have been launched encapsulate both established gateways and markets in burgeoning economies. The same fast-paced expansion and growth trend is expected this coming year, with new routes to be launched in Africa, Saudi Arabia and in the UAE. In 2014, Qatar Airways introduced three new routes to the US, and in 2016, an additional three new North American routes will join the route map. This represents tremendous growth in a short two-year window. Opening new destinations in both East and West places, Qatar Airways is a global connector for passengers. Growth has been not only centred around the route map only; Qatar Airways has also been enhancing its fleet at an accelerated pace – as the Middle East launch customer for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner in 2012; taking delivery of its first Airbus A380 superjumbo in 2014 as well as the Airbus A350 at the end of 2014. These aircraft are among the most technologically advanced in the aerospace industry today, and have made a significant impact on the fleet on all our long-haul, medium-haul and short-haul sectors. TRAVEL TRADE MENA: Qatar Airways has already announced the addition of Los Angeles, Boston and Atlanta for 2016. Will the US lead the airline’s growth in the coming years? AKBAR AL BAKER: Qatar Airways is expanding in all aspects of the business simultaneously [...]. In terms of the route network, the gateways that are being added to the global route map represent many growing economies and are not specific to a certain region. For example, while North America is witnessing growth in terms of SEPTEMBER 2015

Q & A with Akbar Al Baker GROUP CEO, QATAR AIRWAYS

Qatar Airways has been continuously increasing its presence on the global scene by establishing connections in new untapped markets. Qatar Airways has also focussed on a series of investments in growing its subsidiaries; Qatar Duty Free or Qatar Airways Cargo, to name a few. Also, earlier this year was the announcement of the 9.99 percent stake in the International Consolidated Airlines Group, and entry into the airline alliance, oneworld which took place in 2013. Furthermore, organic growth in the fleet and network is continuously taking shape – with currently orders valued at over USD70 billion. The hub and home of Qatar Airways, Hamad International Airport, is also set for final phase of development, which is still ongoing. TRAVEL TRADE MENA: How would you describe Qatar Airways’ contribution to Qatar’s socio-economic development and to the rapid evolvement of the country’s tourism industry?

OVER THE PAST 18 YEARS, QATAR AIRWAYS HAS BECOME ONE OF THE WORLD’S FASTEST GROWING AIRLINES, OPERATING TO OVER 150 DESTINATIONS AROUND THE GLOBE. AKBAR AL BAKER, GROUP CEO, QATAR AIRWAYS, TALKS ABOUT EXPANSION STRATEGY AND COMPETITION IN THE ARABIC SKIES. gateway count, in certain years in Qatar Airways’ history, it was Africa, or Europe or Asia that was seeing a number of new destinations added within a short period. The airline does not approach additional routes region by region, instead it is spread out across what adds value for our business and leisure traffic – and of course – global market trends. TRAVEL TRADE MENA: Over the past years, Gulf carriers have significantly

expanded their presence globally by connecting the region to new, previously underserved markets and, in many cases, by investing in other airlines. Will the airline’s focus remain on organic growth or can we expect to see investment in other carriers? AKBAR AL BAKER: Gulf carriers’ growth rate and success can be related to their diversification and differentiation strategy in targeting new markets.

AKBAR AL BAKER: [We are engaged in a range of ] corporate social responsibility initiatives with Qatar based charities and Education Above All. There are also many partnerships that Qatar Airways is involved in locally, in the Qatar market with various charity organisations. We also organise family and social events. The annual Qatar International Food Festival is a family event which Qatar Airways is a co-organiser of, bringing together world-class chefs, cuisine, entertainment and food outlet kiosks from all over Qatar to participate as a family-friendly event. Qatar Airways also works closely with Qatar Tourism Authority to drive growth in the tourism sector. With Qatar Airways flying direct to more than 150 destinations, it brings a large mass of travellers directly into Qatar and with the Qatar stopover programme, it enables people to have city tours in and around Doha from as little as six hours or less in between their connecting flights. Or, if they have time between their next connecting route, stopping in Doha for a 48- or 36-hour excursion. Furthermore, the MICE segment of travel into Qatar is a thriving sector, with many conferences and headline events happening in Doha. With the range of full-scale hotel options and world-class venues to host large groups, Qatar is a known name for such meetings. 

NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS MICE ASIA PACIFIC EXHIBITION Singapore, Singapore September 10 – 11 www.miceasiaexhibition.com Over two days, the show aims to connect Asia’s leading meetings, conference, exhibition and events organisers and help them network with Asia Pacific venues.

SCTNH Supported 855 Events Since 2012

ccording to a recent report, Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTNH) and its partners organised and sponsored about 855 events throughout the country over the last four years, 260 of which were held this year alone.

The authority highlighted that events and festivals are playing an important role in the creation of tourism destinations due to their ability to increase demand, highlight potentials across the Kingdom’s provinces, promote entrepreneurship and help strengthen national identity.

WORLD ROUTES Durban, South Africa September 19 – 22 www.routesonline.com The event, which takes place in Africa for the first time, attracts the most senior representatives of airlines, airports and tourism authorities.

THE HOTEL SHOW Dubai, UAE September 28 – 30 www.thehotelshow.com Presenting a full view of the hotel and hospitality industry, the event will gather over 17,700 attendees from across the sector having grown by over 12 percent in the past year.

INTERNATIONAL GOLF TRAVEL MARKET Tenerife, Spain October 05 – 08 www.igtm.co.uk A meeting place for the global business-to-business golf travel community with over 600 golf tourism suppliers joining 350 pre-qualified buyers and 100 international press for four days.

SEPTEMBER 2015