25 NOVEMBER 2017 ISSUE 420
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort DISCOVER THE PEAK OF WORLD-CLASS LUXURY. EXPERIENCE THE HEART OF OMANI HOSPITALITY.
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25 NOVEMBER 2017 ISSUE 420
06 ACCOMMODATION
ROTANA TO LAUNCH 14 NEW PROJECTS
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MINOR HOTELS TO REDEFINE DOHA’S HOSPITALITY
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KUWAIT AIRWAYS ADDITIONAL FLIGHTS TO CAIRO
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
IATA FORECASTS DOUBLE DIGIT GROWTH FOR 2036
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects 7.8 billion passengers to travel in 2036, a nearly double the four billion air travellers expected to fly this year. The prediction is based on a 3.6 percent average Compound Annual Growth Rate noted in the release of the latest update to the association’s 20-Year Air Passenger Forecast.
JOURNALISTS Panayiotis Karanicholas Anna Spyrou CONTRIBUTOR Dominique Christou 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 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515, neil@globetm.com Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735, kuka@rmamedia.com
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456, david@simpson-media.com
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he Asia-Pacific region will be the source of more than half of the new passengers over the next two decades, while China will be replacing the US as the world’s largest aviation market. "Increasing demand will bring a significant infrastructure challenge. The solution does not lie in more complex processes [...] but in harnessing the power of new technology to move activity off-airport, streamline processes and improve efficiency […],” highlighted Alexandre de Juniac, CEO, IATA.
ABU DHABI’S Q3 RETAIL PERFORMANCE MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of 22.11.2017
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COUNTRY
CURRENCY USD1=
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
114.84
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
18.68
Iran (IRR)
Rial
35,237.30
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,166.06
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,510.88
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.37
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.44
Syria (SYP)
Pound
514.99
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.48
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.15
According to Jones Lang LaSalle's UAE Real Estate Market Overview, Abu Dhabi’s office and retail rents have remained stable during this year’s third quarter (Q3) despite the decline in demand.
A Abu Dhabi
pproximately 550 units were delivered in Q3, bringing the total residential stock to approximately 250,000 units. Deliveries included Al Jazeera Tower on the Corniche, C34 residential tower in Saraya on the Corniche and Abu Dhabi Marina Development in Al Bateen. A further 3,000 residential units are currently scheduled to enter the market by the end of the year mainly within Reem Island, Saadiyat Island and Saraya. Aldar's Water's Edge scheme on Yas Island was well received at Cityscape Global, setting a new benchmark for good quality waterfront housing at a lower price point.
25 NOVEMBER 2017
MARKET UPDATE
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WYNDHAM WORLDWIDE’S Q3 PERFORMANCE
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED PASSENGER GROWTH
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yndham Worldwide recently announced results for the third quarter of this year (Q3). The company's results were in line with its prior expectations despite recent hurricanes negatively impacting its operations. Net income in Q3 was USD203 million compared with USD196 million for Q3 in 2016. Diluted earnings per share increased 11 percent to USD1.97, versus USD1.78 in 2016. Stephen Holmes, CEO, Wyndham Worldwide, highlighted, "While the barrage of recent hurricanes negatively impacted our results, our efforts to drive revenue and control costs successfully mitigated their impact in the quarter. I am especially proud of how our employees and affiliates in affected areas have served our guests throughout a difficult period.”
According to Dubai Airports, passenger traffic at Dubai International climbed 1.7 percent in September compared to the corresponding month in 2016, with the hub welcoming 7.2 million travellers.
I Dubai International
n terms of source markets, South America was the fastest expanding segment with 46.2 percent increase, followed by Eastern Europe and East Asia, up 18.6 percent and 15.7 percent, correspondingly. Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports, emphasised, “Dubai International’s growth throughout the first nine months of this year has been very satisfying and we are now well set for a great finish to the year thanks to the internationally popular entertainment and sports events lined up for the upcoming winter season here in Dubai.”
MIDDLE EAST HOTELIERS CHALLENGED IN Q3 Based on STR Global's latest report, occupancy in Middle Eastern accommodations fell 2.8 percent to 60.9 percent during the third quarter of this year (Q3), while average daily rate plummeted 8.1 percent to USD145.50. Meanwhile RevPAR decreased 10.7 percent to USD88.61.
Lebanon
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n Lebanon, occupancy levels increased 5.5 percent during Q3, marking the highest month and quarter growth for the country since 2011.STR analysts note that the country’s strong year-over-year growth for the quarter was due to considerably low performance levels over the past several years, caused by political unrest and security concerns. 25 NOVEMBER 2017
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TECHNOLOGY Cleatrip Enables Apple Pay
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leartrip, a mobile and online travel company in the Middle East, announced the integration of Apple Pay on its mobile application. With the launch of Apple’s digital wallet in the UAE, Cleartrip customers can now take advantage of a quicker and safer way to check out on its mobile app. “As the preferred travel partner of consumers in the UAE, as well as the wider region, we are dedicated to building industryleading travel solutions. Understanding and addressing our customers’ needs, like easy payment options, is at the heart of why we launched Apple Pay on the Cleartrip app,” said Stuart Crighton, CEO, Cleartrip.
Cleartrip mobile app
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Sabre Poll Highlights Findings
American Express Anounced SafeKey 2.0
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oday’s travellers spend an average of 3.5 hours finding the perfect flight, according to a consumer poll from Sabre, highlighting the vast array of flight options available to travellers today, and the potential dilemma of easily finding an appropriate flight. The study also found that businesses people were more willing to share information with in return for a more personalised experience. In addition, almost one in five consumers expect airlines to offer them completely unique travel packages. Almost one in four expect airlines to recommend entire flight experiences tailored towards all of their individual preferences.
merican Express has recently announced SafeKey 2.0, the next generation of its online authentication tool built specifically to meet the needs of today’s mobile commerce environment. SafeKey 2.0 is one of many tools American Express has made available to help merchants, issuers and card members fight fraud. Other tools include Enhanced Authorisation, a service that uses additional information submitted by online merchants, to detect fraud when a card member transaction is submitted for authorisation. [...] “The number of consumers making purchases through mobile channels is continuing to grow, and the expected growth of Internet-connected devices will further fuel digital commerce activity,” said Jaromir Divilek, executive vice president, global network business, American Express.
25 NOVEMBER 2017
AGENTS
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Hotelbeds’ Strong Presence at WTM
Mubadala Partners with Honeywell
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uring WTM London, Hotelbeds Group, provided an update on the latest stage of the integration of Tourico Holidays and GTA into its group, offering clients an even wider choice of hotel accommodation. Commenting on the occasion, Carlos Muñoz, managing director, bedbank, Hotelbeds Group, stated, “We are very pleased to confirm to our customers that the number of unique hotels available has risen – with the inclusion of both Tourico Holidays and GTA´s offering – from around 120,000 to approximately 170,000 […]. Additionally we can now also confirm that we are working with over 7,000 clients via the wholesale channel globally.”
25 NOVEMBER 2017
GTA Drives Growth in Dubai
From left, Al-Olama, and Randy Anderson, president, Aerospace, Europe, Middle East, Africa and India, Honeywell, on the sidelines of Dubai Airshow
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iming to transform the Middle East’s aviation industry, Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Honeywell International, the Fortune 100 software-industrial company that produces connected technologies for aviation. The two companies are set to collaborate to introduce a suite of
products and services to the Middle East, relating to the manufacturing, development and maintenance, repair and overhaul of aerospace products across the region. “This MoU is poised to achieve greater results than the sum of its parts because of the length and depth of our partnership, [...]” concluded Badr Al-Olama, director, Aerospace, Mubadala.
TA recently held its third annual Strategic Partnership Programme (SPP) Dubai event at RockOn! themed restaurant at Bollywood Parks Dubai. Dubai as an overall destination continues to deliver strong growth for GTA with the SPP Dubai properties performing in excess of 30 percent year-on-year revenue growth which is ahead of market performance. During the event, all SPP hotels enjoyed updates from key GTA sales figures from the Asia Pacific and Middle Eastern region outlining the various opportunities that exist and some tips on how they can capitalize on driving business into Dubai from these source markets.
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ACCOMMODATION
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Rotana to Launch 14 New Projects KEEPING IN LINE WITH ITS TARGET OF OPERATING 100 PROPERTIES BY 2020, ROTANA HOTELS & RESORTS SHOWCASED DURING THIS YEAR’S WTM LONDON ITS 14 NEW PROJECTS WHICH ARE SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION BY THE END OF 2018. THESE INCLUDE SIX HOTELS IN THE UAE, THREE IN SAUDI ARABIA, TWO IN TURKEY AND ONE IN IRAN, IRAQ AND TANZANIA.
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ommenting on the expansion, Omer Kaddouri, CEO, Rotana Hotels & Resorts, stated, “Saudi Arabia is heading for a phenomenal growth with massive scale up in investments and infrastructure projects. The recent announcements of new ambitious tourism projects have made it a more attractive market. The [country] will continue to be one of our key markets going forward.”
Minor Hotels to Redefine Doha’s Hospitality
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iming to enhance the development of the local hospitality sector and contribute towards the economic diversification of Qatar as defined in its National Vision 2030, Minor Hotels unveiled plans to launch three new properties in 2018 under its Tivoli and Oaks brands. The three properties will be owned by Katara Hospitality, a globally recognised hospitality owner, developer and operator. The addition of the three new hotels in Doha, will bring the total number of properties operated by Minor Hotels in the GCC region to 16 across multiple brands. In addition, the group has a strong pipeline in the MENA region including new properties under development in Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Morocco, three new countries for the group.
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Mondrian Doha Debuted
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ondrian Doha, Qatar’s exciting new lifestyle hospitality offering made its Middle Eastern debut offering a variety of stylish and distinct options to cater to event planners needs, along with a cluster of venues suitable for an array of corporate and social functions Featuring meeting and conference facilities, the new 270-key property encompasses seven meeting spaces. Designed in collaboration with Marcel Wanders, the resort gives guests the choice to select between five room categories. Furthermore, Mondrian Doha includes seven custom bars and restaurants.
Mondrian Doha
25 NOVEMBER 2017
ACCOMMODATION
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Arabian Courtyard Presents Renovations
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ollowing four months of extensive renovations, Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa, an Arabian Heritage themed hotel located at the heart of Bur Dubai has recently presented its new look to guests inviting them to relax into its new interiors. Covering the refurbishment of the 150 hotel’s guestrooms with modern electronic fitouts, reading lights and multiple device charging sockets to cater for the needs of today’s travellers, the AED5 million (USD1.36 million) project included upgradation of the resort’s pool deck, which now features an outdoor Shisha lounge. Other facilities that undergone enhancement works are the Pharaoh Café and La Terrasse as well as the VIP lounge.
Milestone September for Abu Dhabi’s Hoteliers
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ccording to the latest figures released by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority the emirate saw a seven percent year-on-year increase in the number of hotel guests during the first nine months of the year, with September recording five percent rise compared to the corresponding month in 2016. While September saw a slight drop in domestic tourists into Abu Dhabi, the month was marked by a surge in Chinese hotel guests, recording a highly impressive increase of 133 percent in comparison to September 2016. The rise to more than 28,000 Chinese guests in the month under review can be attributed to extensive marketing across China carried out by the authority and the granting of visas on arrival from the start of the year to Chinese nationals.
Abu Dhabi
Citymax Hotels New Brand Identity
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itymax Hotels revealed the launch of its new brand identity, that is being rolled out in phases across the group’s portfolio of hotels. As part of the project, in addition to a new brand image, all operating hotels will be renovated to provide guests a more contemporary experience while leveraging the brand value of Citymax Hotels. The first property to implement the new identity is Citymax Hotel Al Barsha. The hotel has renovated its reception, lobby, corridors and guestrooms along with bathrooms on first, second and third floors with an imaginative design concept. Other facilities, including the dining outlets, will also be enhanced over the next few months.
25 NOVEMBER 2017
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ACCOMMODATION TIME Hotels to Launch Saudi Resort
Wyndham Garden Manama to Debut
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uring WTM London, TIME Hotels unveiled plans to launch a midmarket contemporary development on the upper west side of Jeddah. Due to open its doors in December, TIME Beach Villas Resort will comprise of 61 units with detailed Arabic architecture encompassing a full reflection of authentic Gulf design. “[...] It is perfect for long staying corporate guests as well as short stay family getaways. TIME Hotels has a great deal of experience throughout the GCC, not only managing these types of properties, but more importantly we have an in-depth understanding of these market segments, how to add value and drive in business,” stated Mohamed Awadalla, CEO, TIME Hotels.
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iming to expand hospitality offering in Bahrain’s capital city, Wyndham Hotel Group, in partnership with Mannai Properties launched a 441-key address that is thoughtfully designed and equipped with deluxe amenities for ultimate comfort and convenience. Said to be the world’s largest Wyndham Garden property, Wyndham Garden Manama is located in Juffair and just a 10-minute drive from Bahrain International Airport. Commenting on the new launch, Ignace Bauwens, regional vice president, Middle East and Africa, Wyndham Hotel Group, underlined, “Wyndham Garden is a brand designed to help guests travel at ease […].”
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Golden Sands Hotel Apartments Highlights Upgraded Facilities
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olden Sands Hotel Apartments highlighted its re-designed website and the new look of the hotel apartments at WTM in London. The new website features an innovative booking engine, with photos of the property and its facilities including images of the many attractions in Dubai. The team also showcased the new look of apartments five and 10 with its new interior design, colour scheme and furnishings that aim to appeal to both business and leisure travellers from the UK market. “[...] Golden Sands Hotel Apartments […] has been a preferred accommodation for many visitors from the UK so we keep upgrading our services and facilities to cater to their ever changing demands,” said Mohammed Khoori, general manager, Golden Sands Hotel Apartments.
Re-designed Golden Sands Hotel Apartments
25 NOVEMBER 2017
AIRPORTS
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BAC Improves Passengers’ Experience
DCAF to Open Second Hangar
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ahrain Airport Company (BAC), the operator and managing body of Bahrain International Airport, recently inaugurated an advanced Airport Operations Centre which promises improved flight tracking and availability, and reduced departure delays. Expected to facilitate the sharing of accurate and timely information on the progress of flights to and from the airport in order to overcome flight scheduling challenges, the new centre streamlines communications between the airport and its partners, allowing each party to understand the other’s operational preferences and constraints. In addition, BAC has established an emergency operations centre as a central command and control facility responsible for strategic direction and operational decision-making, as well as carrying out emergency preparedness.
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C Aviation Al-Futtaim (DCAF) and Germany’s DC Aviation, have confirmed the opening of its second hangar on the inaugural day of the Dubai Airshow, on November 12. The 7,500 m² hangar will be more than double the hangar capacity bringing its total land-side plot area to 24,000 m² and apron area to 13,000 m². The new hangar will enable DCAF to add two single-aisle aircraft maintenance bays and provide enough space for an additional workshop and equipment storage. It will also significantly increase the number and size of aircraft that can be accommodated at the facility. The new hangar will also see, DCAF further expand its maintenance services. DCAF’s second hangar rendering
Sharjah Airport Improves Daily Operations
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harjah Aviation Services, the ground handler for Sharjah International Airport has gone live with a new generation cargo management system, Cargo Flash nGen CMS from Cargo Flash Infotech. The objective of the new warehouse and cargo management suite is to ensure smooth handling and improvement of daily operations at the airport, by providing real-time shipment information. In addition to assisting teams in running daily operations, Cargo Flash also aims to provide business intelligence and digital transparency to help Sharjah’s hub and its airfreight community in reaching e-freight and operational quality goals.
25 NOVEMBER 2017
AIR Jazeera Airways’ Q3 Financial Results
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azeera Airways reported an operating profit of KWD8.3 million (USD27.42 million) during the third quarter of the year (Q3), up 37.8 percent from the same period in 2016, and a net profit of KWD8.2 million (USD27.09 million), reflecting a growth of 35.6 percent, despite a 25 percent increase in fuel costs. Speaking ahead of future quarters, Marwan Boodai, chairman, Jazeera Airways, revealed, “[…] On the network front, the next two quarters are equally exciting. We are launching five new destinations in November and December, while we continue to develop our exclusive terminal at Kuwait International Airport to accept its first passenger in the Q1 of 2018 […]”.
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Etihad Airways to Stop Serving Dallas Following American Airlines’ unilateral decision to terminate its codeshare agreement, Etihad Airways has unveiled plans to suspend its Abu Dhabi – Dallas route, effective from March 25, 2018, as it will become commercially unsustainable.
Kuwait Airways to Commence Kuwait-Taif service
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uwait Airways has announced plans to commence two weekly flights between Kuwait and Taif, beginning December 06. Taif will be the airline's fifth destination in Saudi Arabia after Dammam, Jeddah, Madinah and Riyadh. Meeting the requirements of today’s challenging market, the airline has added the new destination to provide services for more travellers. Along with facilitating an improved passenger experience, Kuwait Airways’ destination addition aims to elevate the quality of services across the airline’s expanding network. Taif
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he Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia and Virgin Group, have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) for a partnership under which PIF intends to invest approximately USD1 billion into Virgin Galactic, The Spaceship Company and Virgin Orbit, with an option for USD480 million of future additional investment in space services. PIF and Virgin Group’s partnership creates a strong platform to enhance the role of innovative technology within Saudi Arabia’s blueprint for a modern, diversified economy, which is a central part of Vision 2030. Commenting on the MoU, Richard Branson, founder, Virgin Group, revealed, “[…] This investment will enable us to develop the next generation of satellite launches and accelerate our programme for point to point supersonic space travel.”
RJ to Implement Ambitious Plan
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ore than 235,000 travellers have flown on the route since its launch in 2014 and almost half of Etihad Airways’ customers have been connected on US codeshare flights operated by American Airlines. Peter Baumgartner, CEO, Etihad Airways, highlighted, “We are open to American Airlines reversing its decision to cancel our codeshare agreement so that Etihad Airways can continue the route and together protect and support American national interests and global connectivity while driving commercial value for both airlines.” The cancellation of the Dallas route is one of Etihad's several adjustments that are being made to the US network in 2018 in order to improve system profitability. Further changes are possible as the airline monitors the full impact of the American Airlines codeshare cancellation on summer 2018 bookings.
Dallas
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Saudi Arabia Partners with Virgin
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uring a press conference held at Fairmont Ajman, Stephen Pichler, CEO, Royal Jordanian (RJ) presented the carrier’s ambitious turnaround plan. Aiming to position RJ as the number one airline in the Levant region, the turnaround plan is based on three key pillars, including sustainable profitability, customer satisfaction and making RJ the employer of choice by attracting and retaining talented workforce. Pichler also announced the financial results RJ achieved in the third quarter of the year, when it registered net profits of JOD31.8 million (USD44.9 million) against JOD12.9 million (USD18.20) net profit attained in the same period in 2016, and highlighted that the five-year plan will include major initiatives that are expected to enhance unit revenues by seven percent and lower unit costs by six percent. 25 NOVEMBER 2017
AIR
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Qatar Airways Touches Down in Bosnia
Air Arabia Maroc Launches New Operations Centre
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naugurating its operations centre in Agadir, Air Arabia Maroc has linked Agadir Airport to seven new European destinations, with a total of 14 weekly flights. The airline will operate flights to Dublin, Manchester, Toulouse, Cologne, Munich, Stockholm and Copenhagen, providing a total of 149,292 seats. This new operational centre in Agadir will expand the airline’s network to 31 destinations. Agadir is the sixth hub of Air Arabia Maroc after Casablanca, Tangier, Nador, Marrakech and Fez. Meeting the requirements of today’s challenging market; the airline features these new additional destinations, along with facilitating an improved passenger experience, with the aim to elevate the quality of services across the airline’s expanding network.
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he first Qatar Airways non-stop flight from Doha to Sarajevo touched down on October 31 at Sarajevo International Airport, where it was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute. The newly-launched service to the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina will operate a four times-weekly schedule with an Airbus A320 aircraft. “[...] We are excited to be adding Sarajevo as our fourth destination in this region to our global route network. As the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, we are confident that this will be a popular and much-anticipated gateway into the country for both business and leisure travellers from across our network [...].” said H.E. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways.
25 NOVEMBER 2017
flydubai Launches Flights to Podgorica
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n November 01, flydubai’s inaugural flight landed in Podgorica, becoming the only UAE-based airline to offer air links to Montenegro’s capital. The twice-weekly service includes a regional connection to Sarajevo, a popular destination on the flydubai network. Commenting on the new service, Jeyhun Efendi,
senior vice president, commercial, flydubai, said, “With the launch of this new route, we are not only providing a direct flight to Podgorica from Dubai, but creating a regular service between Podgorica and Sarajevo. We look forward to the new opportunities that these flights will provide creating new flows of trade and tourism.”
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AIR
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Oman Air Launches New Call Centre
Kuwait Airways Additional Flights to Cairo
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s part of its continuous fleet expansion strategy, Kuwait Airways has announced its plans to increase its Kuwait-Cairo service from December 21. Meanwhile, the airline currently serves this route 14 times weekly and it will introduce two additional weekly flights. Meeting the requirement of today’s challenging market the airline will operate the additional flights with Boeing 777-300ER, operating on Fridays and Sundays. Along with facilitating an improved passenger experience, the airline’s additional flight aims to elevate the quality of services across the airline’s expanding network.
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man Air welcomed the opening of its new call centre in Kuala Lumpur, on November 02, beside the current one operating in Oman and the recently launched centre in India. The newly opened call centre, which will be managed by experts Interglobe Technologies, will provide support in Thai, Malay, Bahasa, Tagalog and Chinese eight hours a day, seven days a week. It will also offer support in English 24 hours a day, on a daily basis. The call centre will serve customers from around the world and will be staffed by a professional team, all of whom will offer help and advice.
Cairo
Qatar Airways to Fly Airbus A350 to the Maldives
Q Oman Air’s new call centre staff
atar Airways has announced that it is the first airline to fly an Airbus A350 to the Maldives. The airline has upgraded its current double-daily Airbus A330 service to an A350, which commenced its first A350 flight on October 31, and the second service with the Airbus joined on November 03. H.E. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “We are proud to be the first airline to fly our Airbus A350 to the Maldives. As one of the airline’s most in-demand destinations, we are delighted to be upgrading our aircraft and providing our passengers with the ultimate comfort and services on board one of the most technologically innovative aircraft in the sky.”
Tourism Ireland Teams Up with Etihad Airways
Emirates Unveils Aircraft Expo 2020 Dubai Livery
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ourism Ireland has teamed up with Etihad Airways in Australia, to promote flights to Dublin via Abu Dhabi and to highlight holidays in Ireland for 2018. The aim of Tourism Ireland’s latest campaign is to keep Ireland as a prime choice for Australian travellers considering a trip to Europe in 2018. Sofia Hansson, manager, Australia, Tourism Ireland, said, “In 2016, we welcomed more than 200,000 visitors from Australia and New Zealand. Tourism Ireland is determined to ensure that success continues and we have an extensive programme of promotions under way in Australia this autumn – aimed at boosting late-season travel to Ireland and at positioning us well for 2018.”
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mirates has unveiled the first aircraft in its fleet with a new livery dedicated to Expo 2020 Dubai. The decal was installed on an Airbus A6-EPK and a Boeing 777300ER aircraft. Since Emirates is the official airline partner of Expo 2020 Dubai, the livery is based on the expos logo inspired by an ancient gold ring excavated in Dubai and it underlines the airlines’ support for the vision of Expo 2020 Dubai. The airline will be installing three different decal designs to reflect the different themes of Expo 2020- namely, opportunity, mobility and sustainability.
25 NOVEMBER 2017
AIR
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Qatar Airways Strengthens Links to Greece
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atar Airways recently unveiled plans to launch four weekly flights to Thessaloniki, effective from March 27,
2018. Marking the airline’s second destination in Greece, Thessaloniki is well-known for its many archaeological sites and historic structures, including its well-preserved Byzantine mosaics and walls. The relatively small city is considered an open-air museum of Byzantine history, and offers a truly unique cultural experience for everyone. Commenting on the new service, H.E. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, highlighted, “[…] By adding Thessaloniki to our global network, we are pleased to offer our Greece-based passengers a gateway to more than 150 destinations worldwide through our hub, Hamad International Airport.”
25 NOVEMBER 2017
Germania Takes Off to New Destinations
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ermania will be flying to Sharm el-Sheikh, over the winter season, reviving a flight path between Berlin and the Red Sea resort, which has remained unused for four and a half years. The airline will be improving the connections between Schönefeld airport and Hurghada by increasing the frequencies from once to three times a week. Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria are also on the winter flight schedule for the first time, while Tenerife and Paphos can be accessed via Cyprus. Germania is also offering several flights a week to Tehran and Beirut this winter and remains firm partners in intercultural aviation with them.
Etihad, Alibaba and Ant Financial Sign MoU
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iming to further expand their existing partnership while also delivering superior products and services to Chinese customers, Etihad Aviation Group, Alibaba Group and Ant Financial signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU). Under the agreement, Alibaba Group and Etihad Guest, the loyalty programme of Etihad Airways, will explore enhanced programme benefits and opportunities for cross-acquisition of loyalty points. In addition, the two parties will enter into a brand partnership agreement that will integrate the Alibaba Group of Brands with Etihad Airways’ premium leisure travel experience across its global route network.
From left Lindsay White, vice president, Asia Pacific, Etihad Airways, presenting an Etihad aircraft model with special 11.11 livery to Jerrry Hu, vice president, Alibaba Group.
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RENDEZVOUS
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WITH GREECE BECOMING A PARTICULARLY ATTRACTIVE DESTINATION AMONGST MIDDLE EASTERN AND NORTH AFRICAN TRAVELLERS MANOS VATZOLAS, DIRECTOR, SALES AND MARKETING, LEDRA HOTELS & VILLAS EXPLAINS HOW THE GROUP CATERS TO THIS CLIENTELLE BY INVESTING IN PRIVACY AND HALAL FOOD.
Q&A with MANOS VATZOLAS DIRECTOR, SALES AND MARKETING LEDRA HOTELS & VILLAS
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How popular is Greece to travellers from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region? MANOS VATZOLAS: I am afraid that the number of our guests travelling from the MENA region is still not as high as expected. However, we do experience an increase [compared to the corresponding period in 2016], which is mainly justified due to the fact that two of our properties, Domes of Elounda and Domes Noruz Chania, Autograph Collection have recently joined Marriott International, which has a strong presence in these markets. We have more expectations from our MENA guests and the locations where we operate are very unique for the luxury market. It is not a secret however, that this year’s forecast is also directly connected with the geopolitical situation of our neighboring, competitive markets as well the expensive pricing of more traditional destinations, including Spain, Italy, Southern France. Greece, this year provides an amazing proposition, a safe and excellent value for money offering! This season Greece has a unique opportunity, to deliver up to standard and exceed visitors’ satisfaction!
a small sample of our product. The easy transfer from Crete’s airports, our private helipad, our fusion local cuisine and our private chef and butler service on demand, all complete the setting and cover the needs of the most demanding MENA guests. The company heavily invests in the villa sector. Villa pri-
vacy when combined with luxury hotel services is a unique selling point to the MENA guest and this is where we will continue investing. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: According to the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE), more than 30 million people visited Greece in 2016, which is an all-time record for the country. What are you doing to further increase arrivals, especially from the MENA region, in the long term? MANOS VATZOLAS: This is the result of the collective work of SETE, the Ministry of Tourism and a number of active hotel groups in the country, all working together to properly reposition the Greek product abroad. Our number one priority is to exceed our guests‘ expectations and indirectly promote Greece, Domes Resorts and Autograph Collection Hotels by Marriott International. We will then continue our multiple international exposure and also invest in less traditional markets for us including MENA, Australia, Asia, India and Latin America. More exposure and participation to MENA trade shows is for sure in the agenda. Should things go according to plan, and more MENA visitors invest in their holidays in Greece, there are more to consider, including medical tourism investments, service changes as to target more religious guests, female spa and gym. Halal is a future consideration for us and we are in the stage of further research. In the meantime we are happy to co-operate closely with our VIP’s and local suppliers, prepare our kitchens accordingly, offer unused utensils and go the extra mile to the extend needed, as to offer an experience as close to home as possible.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How do you cater to your MENA visitors in order to satisfy their unique requirements? MANOS VATZOLAS: We believe our offering fully covers the MENA customers’ needs. Our private natural sandy beach, international high standard luxury services, enhanced privacy, cultural sensitivity and villas with private swimming pools, are only Domes of Elounda
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WHO’S MOVED
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EKTA GANDHI has taken on the role of manager of marketing and communications of Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC). Bringing with her eight years of experience in the tourism industry working in luxury hotels and resorts, Gandhi has a solid understanding of marketing and communications within Oman. In 2013, she joined the pre-opening team for Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort where she served as head of the department, and successfully opened the resort as manager of marketing and communications, attracting media recognition from all corners of the globe. In her new role, Gandhi will be responsible for overseeing OCEC’s marketing department while also supporting its business development team.
MUHAMMAD MUJTABA HAIDER has been recently appointed as new general manager of ibis Styles Dubai Jumeira. Bringing with him over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Haider served as project manager of ibis Styles Jumeira during its pre-opening stage and was later appointed as hotel manager when it launched in 2015. Prior to his new role, he served as the executive assistant manager for sales and marketing at Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham JBR. In his new role, Haider will continue to lead the daily operations of the 191-key property to guarantee excellent guest experience.
Haider will lead the resort's operations
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HAITHEM ASSEM has taken on the role of multi-property director of marketing and communications of The St. Regis Dubai, W Dubai Al Habtoor City and The Westin Dubai, Al Habtoor City. Bringing with him more than 15 years of expertise in the hospitality industry, Assem held a number of senior marketing and communications positions. Before joining Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, he served as complex director of marketing of The Westin and Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre. In his new role, Assem will be responsible for introducing and strengthening further the market position of the three properties.
Ekta Gandhi
Haitham Assem
Assem brings more 15 years of expertise
TILL KLAUSS has recently taken on the role of new hotel manager of Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano, Egypt. Klauss started his Four Seasons career as an intern in the food and beverage division of the flagship Four Seasons Hotel George V, in Paris in 2001. Since then, he has worked at Four Seasons in Hampshire, Damascus, Prague, Toronto and Punta Mita. In his new role, Klauss will assist in uplifting the Alexandrian culinary scene in addition to elevating the guest experience at the Egyptian property.
Muhammad Mujtaba Haider
Till Klauss
Klauss held various senior roles and has a wealth of experience in the luxury hospitality segment
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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Saudi Arabia to Display Rare Objects
Leading the Way to Improve Excursions
Saudi Commission of Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) is offering a set of rare glass and ceramic utensils dating back to the first millennium BC. Found in Al Fau archaeological village, which is located about 700 km south-west of Riyadh, the artefacts are believed to have been imported from major manufacturing centres such as Alexandria and Bagram in Afghanistan. Highlighting the development and richness of the past civilisations of the Arabian Peninsula, the objects were part of the relics of Roads of Arabia exhibition which was will be at the forefront of the first Saudi Archaeology Convention which took place on November 07 – 09.
A new online training course, called Leading the way, enables tour guides to improve the impact of their excursions on local communities and the environment. The training, developed by the Travel Foundation in partnership with the Dutch Travel Association, ANVR, has been completed by over 500 guides and managers across 17 countries to date. At least 95 percent of guides who have completed the course have said that they intend to build better relationships with communities, increase the positive contribution of tours to the local economy and minimise environmental impact. Gerben Hardeman, manager, travel and tourism, ANVR, said, “In the end, it is all about creating better places and experiences for locals and holidaymakers.”
Saudi Archaeology Convention Launched Official Website
On October 30, Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH) presented the official website of the first Saudi Archaeology Convention on the sidelines of a press conference held to announce the details of the forum. The website offers all the required information on the accompanied events and programmes of the convention, in addition to the information related to the scientific programme and workshops that will be organised by SCTH during its session. Aiming to establish a scientific gathering of specialists and interested people in the field of antiquities to raise awareness, promote national sentiment among citizens, and educate the public about the significance of national antiquities, the first Saudi Archaeology Convention took place on November 07 – 09 in Riyadh.
Glass and ceramic utensils from Al Fau
Promoting Breast Cancer Awareness in Doha Bedaya Center for Entrepreneurship and Career Development, a joint initiative by Qatar Development Bank and Silatech, in collaboration with Asmaa Al Hammadi, ambassador, Qatar Cancer Society, held a discussion session at Market Café in Doha, with the contribution of a brave cancer survivor Asma Bu Jassoom. The talk was to create awareness about the importance of early examination and screening to avoid the disease. During the session titled, Prevention… A small step that goes a Long way, Jassoom spoke about her journey with the disease and concluded her discussion by talking about her experience with breast cancer, her treatment trips and the family support during all the stages of her recovery. Prevention… A small step that goes a Long way
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Omran partners with Bawader International to restore and revive Nizwa Fort
H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, tolerance minister, visited the ninth edition of Abu Dhabi Art and toured the fair’s galleries
Abu Dhabi concludes successful participation at World Travel Market London
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Nakheel clocks up 130 hours of sporting activity through 135 events as Dubai Fitness Challenge passes halfway mark
Oman Air launched new control centre in Romania
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NEWS & EVENTS Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi Attends Forum
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he Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, took part in the second edition of Prolight + Sound Middle East, an industry trade fair dedicated to the entertainment, event, media and creation industries. The Fair ran from October 17 – 19 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, where a series of product launches, new conferences, and technical certification courses shared centre stage. Sultan Al Dhaheri, acting executive director, Tourism Sector Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, attended on the opening morning of the three-day event, to take part in a panel discussion focusing on what factors are instrumental in shaping cultural projects from a government perspective.
Dubai to Host IATF
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he 32nd edition of the International Autumn Trade Fair (IATF), a general consumer goods trade fair, organised by Al Fajer Information and Services will be held from December 17 – 19 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Featuring an extensive array of products from home décor to lifestyle and more, the three-day event is hailed to be the only trade exhibition in the MENA region offering a comprehensive platform for the global consumer goods industry. “[…] Looking at the exhibitor and visitor participation for the upcoming fair, we are optimistic that trade in the UAE will continue to witness an uptick,” disclosed, Rupashree Singh, exhibition manager, Al Fajer Information and Services.
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EVENTS ILTM (INT'L LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET) Cannes, France December 04 – 07 www.iltm.net The ILTM Cannes presents the world's most desirable destinations, luxurious accommodations, and unique travel experiences.
BEST CITIES GLOBAL FORUM 2017 Tokyo, Japan December 04 – 07 www.bestcities.net The Global Forum is the ideal opportunity for decision-makers considering hosting an event in a BestCities’ destination, to meet all the partner cities.
TRAVEL TURKEY TOURISM FAIR AND CONGRESS Izmir, Turkey December 07 – 10 www.travelturkeyexpo.com The Travel Turkey Izmir Tourism Fair and Congress is the ideal platform for the development of business relations, establishment of new connections and partnerships.
GREEK TOURISM EXPO 2017 Athens, Greece December 08 – 10 www.greektourismexpo.gr The Greek Tourism Expo is a trade fair for travel and tourism in and for Greece where buyers of travel services meet with suppliers from the domestic and abroad.
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