2 DECEMBER 2017 ISSUE 421
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2 DECEMBER 2017 ISSUE 421
05 TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
OMRAN TO REVIVE NIZWA FORT
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ACCORHOTELS EXPANDS NOVOTEL IN OMAN
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AIR ARABIA TO LEASE SIX AIRBUS A321
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
THE EMIRATES GROUP REPORTS STEADY GROWTH
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
The Emirates Group has announced its half-year (H1) performance for its financial year 2017–2018 which demonstrates steady revenue growth and a rebound on profitability compared to the corresponding period in 2016.
PRESS Efi Rousi Maria Constantinou 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
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of 1.12.2017
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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
114.93
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
17.68
Iran (IRR)
Rial
35,273.27
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,184.07
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,510.67
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.36
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.38
Syria (SYP)
Pound
514.99
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.489
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.32
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he group’s revenue was AED49.4 billion (USD13.5 billion) for the first six months of its financial year, up six percent from AED46.5 billion (USD12.7 billion) during H1 in 2016. Meanwhile profitability rebounded after a low, with the group reporting net profit of AED 2.3 billion (USD 631 million), up 77 percent. This result was driven by capacity optimisation and efficiency initiatives across the company, steady business growth, and a more favourable foreign exchange situation compared to the same period in 2016.
BOEING PRESENTED CURRENT MARKET OUTLOOK AT DUBAI AIRSHOW Boeing presented its Current Market Outlook for this year during the Dubai Airshow and revealed that airlines in the Middle East will need 3,350 new airplanes over the next 20 years, valued at an estimated USD730 billion.
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nternationally, Boeing has forecasted long-term demand for 41,030 new airplanes, valued at USD6.1 trillion aiming to stimulate growth in emerging markets. "Traffic growth in the Middle East is expected to grow at 5.6 percent annually during the next 20 years," said Randy Tinseth, vice president, marketing, Boeing. "The fact that 85 percent of the world's population lives within an eight-hour flight of the Arabian Gulf [...] allows carriers in the Middle East to channel traffic through their hubs and offer one-stop service between many cities."
2 DECEMBER 2017
AGENTS
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GBTA Foundation Reveals Research
MENA Aerospace Enter Hala Bahrain Partnership MENA Aerospace has signed an agreement with Hala Bahrain for passenger handling services at a newly revamped, terminal building for travellers flying in and out of Bahrain International Airport.
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ENA Aerospace delivers distinctive capabilities in handling aircraft in and around hangars, using Mototok electric tugs, in line with cutting edge international standards. Hala Bahrain will ensure seamless transfers for passengers and crew arriving on private, government, business and corporate or chartered flights with services for passenger transportation, passenger handling, and luggage handling.
RoomIt by CWT Partners with Expedia Affiliate
CWT To Go app
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oomIt by CWT, the hotel distribution division of Carlson Wagonlit Travel, announced a new agreement with Expedia Affiliate Network (EAN), aiming to make rates and availabilities for EAN supply available to RoomIt and CWT clients, giving travellers access to 197,000 properties including 36,000 unique properties across the globe. EAN supply will be available globally offline, through the CWT To Go mobile application, through the RoomIt online booking tool, and on major online booking tools. “CWT is committed to giving our clients the most options with the most competitive rates in the most places around the world. Adding EAN to our available supply is making a significant investment to provide a better experience and stronger service for our travellers,” said Scott Brennan, president, RoomIt by CWT.
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new research released by the GBTA Foundation, revealed that small and mid-sized companies are more likely to allow business travellers to use non-transparent payment methods such as personal credit cards or cash advances. When looking at usage of corporate credit cards, Central Travel Accounts and virtual cards adoption is consistent regardless of company size, showing these methods are accessible for a variety of companies. This years’ Business Travel Payments Study, revealed corporate credit card use remains widespread with nine of 10 travel programmes using them. While corporate cards are almost universal; more than half of travel programmes report using virtual payments.
TUI Academy to Educate Youngsters on Tourism
AITO Investigates Online Hotel Booking Sites
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UI Care Foundation and Plan International have teamed up to bring education and employment opportunities in tourism to young people in the Dominican Republic. Together, the two organisations have launched the TUI Academy. Through this initiative 150 disadvantaged youngsters will receive a one-year training course preparing them for work in the field of tourism, including an internship at Blue Diamond resorts where, among other things, they will be coached by experienced practitioners. Furthermore, a top-up educational programme will be offered as well as certificates from INFOTEP, the official Dominican institute for vocational training. To support their first steps in the tourism industry, TUI Academy graduates are given working contracts of at least six months in duration.
s of October 27, the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) welcomed the investigation, undertaken by the Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) into the trading practices of the online hotel booking sites. Derek Moore, chairman, AITO, highlighted how these sites have seen growth over the last five years and explained that CMA’s investigation will interrelat behaviour, and will be submitting its members’ views on how their big-company trading practices affect both enterprises and consumers. “Such online hotel booking sites, largely controlled by American interests, have seen exponential growth over the last five years. They now control virtually the entire market in hotel reservations, and it is estimated that 80 percent of all hotel bookings in Europe are made through online hotel booking sites. It seems that many online brands across Europe are in fact now owned by just two or three of the main US-controlled players,” further indicated Moore.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Bulgari Marina, Dubai
Sea Dubai Unveils New Anchoring Areas To further enhance Dubai’s competitiveness in a bid to make it a global destination for recreational marine tourism, the Dubai Maritime City Authority has launched the first services of the proactive Sea Dubai initiative.
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ea Dubai will establish clear and definitive frameworks for recreational marine craft licensing regulations and mechanisms in the emirate. As part of the first phase of Sea Dubai implementation, the Burj Al Arab Area has been officially designated as new berth where recreational yachts and luxurious boats can anchor, and marine leisure activities can be held, while the Jumana West Marina, or Bulgari Marina, will be the dedicated anchoring area for smallmedium-sized yachts and 100 m vessels. The latter has a maximum capacity of five vessels.
Expo 2020 and UNIDO Support SDGs
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xpo 2020 Dubai is to work with United Nations (UN) body UNIDO to promote entrepreneurship and investment around the world to help realise the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The two organisations signed a memorandum of understanding that will lead to UNIDO and Expo 2020 Dubai working together on some of the targets for 2030 by exploring initiatives such
as sharing knowledge, thought leadership and co-hosting events. The SDGs were agreed by the UN in 2015 and aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all. Each goal has specific targets to be achieved by 2030, such as eradicating extreme poverty or reducing premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases by a third.
Asia Pacific to be Next Wealth Hotspot
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his year GlobalData’s report, The Global Wealth Market, which analyses the current dynamics of 71 wealth markets, estimated that Asia Pacific will be the best-performing region with growth of over eight percent, contrasting with a slow performance in Europe. Asia Pacific frontier markets are forecast to outperform emerging and mature markets. Countries such as Mongolia and Kazakhstan lead the rankings in terms of forecast compound annual growth rate for this year through to 2021, both in nominal and real terms. Silvana Amparbeng, wealth management analyst, GlobalData, commented, “This is just one of the reasons why wealth managers should be careful when considering expanding in these markets.”
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EU and Egypt Strengthen Cooperation he European Union (EU) adopted a multiannual framework defining the priorities for the financial and technical cooperation with Egypt from this year until 2020, with a focus on youth and women. Following the assumption of partnership priorities with Egypt in July this year, the EU took on the Single Support Framework (SSF) setting priorities and financial allocation in key strategic areas of bilateral cooperation with the country. Johannes Hahn, commissioner, policy and enlargement negotiations, European Neighbourhood, signed a memorandum of understanding on the EU SSF with the Egyptian authorities.
Overtourism Discussions at WTM
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inisters of tourism from 60 countries and leaders from private sector companies and associations summoned at the Ministers Summit organised by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the World Travel Market (WTM) in London to discuss the challenges of sustainable tourism. On November 07, the 11th edition of the UNWTO/WTM Ministers’ Summit, was held under the title Overtourism, growth is not the enemy, it is how to manage it, where issues such as congestion management, the measurement of the impacts of tourism or the role of the private sector in promoting tourism as an effective tool to achieve the sustainable development goals, were addressed.
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TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
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Omran to Revive Nizwa Fort
Miral Transforms Yas Island Experiences
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Nizwa Fort
mran has signed an agreement with local company, Bawader International, to manage the day to day operations of Nizwa Fort. The two Omani companies will work together to maintain and enhance Nizwa Fort and promote its cultural heritage. Ahmed bin Sultan Al Yarubi, board member, Bawader International, said, “[...]. We will introduce guide services that will take guests on an educational journey through
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the fort, showcasing traditional restaurants, Omani handicrafts, costumes and a museum.” Bawader International will gradually enhance the experience over the coming months which will see the introduction of a gift shop, restaurant, coffee shop, as well as improved ticketing and online booking services. Cultural, traditional and historical initiatives and activities will also be organised to attract more visitors to the historical site.
iral, has embarked on a major digital transformation project to create a connected destination of theme parks and attractions on Yas Island. The first phase of the project will begin in 2018, and will transform online and mobile visitor engagement with the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, the Yas Island destination and the new theme park and attractions planned. “Providing guests with immersive wall-less experiences has always been at the heart of Yas Island vision,” commented Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO, Miral.
Deyaar: Indian Event
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n November 03 – 05, Deyaar Development unvield its premium properties at the Dubai Property Show, in Mumbai. Nasser Amer, sales vice president, Deyaar, said, “Investors in India are keen on Dubaibased properties as we have noticed significant interest over the past three years, making this event the ideal platform to showcase our property portfolio. At this year’s event, we are pleased to offer our buyers the chance to visit their new property in Dubai, with complimentary flights plus two nights in a hotel, so they can experience our show apartments firsthand.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Dubai Civil Aviation Authority signs MoU with DAFZA
UNWTO Releases World Tourism Barometer
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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has revealed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DAFZA). The MoU aims to enhance cooperation between the two parties in the economic, social and cultural aspects of their respective operations. The move complements the objectives set forth in Dubai Plan 2021, which looks towards reinforcing the emirate's position as a global destination across many aspects and continuously support the government's communication strategy. The MoU was signed by H.E Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, director general, DCAA, and H.E. Mohammed Al Zarooni, director general, DAFZA, in the presence of senior officials from both authorities.
Abu Dhabi Art Launches Art and Technology Programme
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s part of Abu Dhabi Art’s innovative year-long programme of initiatives, the annual art fair launched a new creative residency in partnership with Khalifa University. Engineering and science students were invited to work with renowned international contemporary artists to create artworks. The artists showcased their works reflecting on these student workshops at Abu Dhabi Art’s ninth edition, which took place on November 08 – 11. The first series of workshops were held from October 22 – 26 with contemporary artists Feng Mengbo and Magdi Mostafa. Commenting on the workshop Mengbo, said, “[...] I am always impressed by the UAE’s focus on education and art, which I believe is very important to the young generation. The students [...] were all open and willing to explore new media.”
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DP World to Explore Opportunities in Africa
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ohammed Al Muallem, senior vice president, DP World, during the Fourth Global Business Forum on Africa in Dubai, explained that the company is looking for new investment and expansion opportunities across Africa, as it pushes ahead with its long-term strategy focusing on the continent. DP World is already present on the ground and has grown to seven locations and ports on the continent covering the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Indian Ocean. “We want to be part of Africa’s progress. We see huge potential in Africa and we are looking to build on our success and the experience we have accumulated there to grow further,” said Al Muallem.
nternational tourist arrivals in July and August totalled over 300 million for the first time ever, according to the latest World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) World Tourism Barometer. Many destinations reported double-digit growth, in particular in the Mediterranean. Among the top 10 markets, international tourism expenditure grew fastest in China, with an increase of 19 percent, the Republic of Korea increasing 12 percent, the US soaring eight percent, and Canada, with a seven percent surge. Expenditure from Germany, the UK, Australia, Italy and Hong Kong grew between three percent and five percent, while France reported a modest one percent increase. Worth noting, beyond the top 10 source markets is the significant recovery in demand from the Russian Federation, increasing 27 percent, and Brazil, increasing 35 percent after a few years of declines in tourism expenditure abroad.
Shurooq Appoints Mantis to Manage Sharjah Collection
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harjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has revealed that Mantis Collection will be managing all hospitality facilities under its Sharjah Collection brand. The joint venture was officiated at the 38th World Travel Market, London that was held on
Fossil Rock Lodge
November 06 – 08. Shurooq revealed that the selection of Mantis Collection was made because of their expertise and experience in delivering and managing boutique sustainable hospitality facilities worldwide. The authority believes that the quality of hospitality and stay options in Sharjah will take a quantum leap forward with the Sharjah Collection. The Sharjah Collection portfolio of projects comprises four key developments; Kingfisher Lodge in Kalba, Al Badayer Oasis, Bait Khalid bin Ibrahim, and the Fossil Rock Lodge at the Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism project. 2 DECEMBER 2017
ACCOMMODATION Radisson Blu Opens in Ajman
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adisson Blu, announced the opening of its first hotel in Ajman, located just a few minutes from the city cente. The Radisson Blu Hotel, Ajman is also home to the Emirates’ newest entertainment destination, with seven distinctive, diverse restaurants and bars to experience. The 148-room property includes Nalukettu Royale restaurant, Italian restaurant Filini and Larder offering breakfast each morning. Mazaj is the hotel’s rooftop bar and lounge offering live entertainment. Other facilities include a 25 m swimming pool, the Natura Wellbeing Spa, and a shuttle service to a private beach and to selected shopping malls.
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AccorHotels Expands Novotel in Oman
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ccorHotels announced the signing of a management agreement with Al Anwar Holdings for a Novotel hotel in Oman. Set to open in 2020, Novotel Muscat Azaiba will be the closest branded midscale hotel to the Oman Exhibition & Convention Centre, which continues to host delegates. The 200-room property will showcase a fully-equipped gym, the In Balance Spa and a swimming pool. A variety of dining outlets will be on offer, including a lobby lounge and all-day dining restaurant. Novotel Muscat Azaiba will also feature 400 m2 of meeting space for gatherings and events.
Garent and Mohamed bin Abdullah Al Khonji, chairman, Oman Hotels and Tourism Company, respectively
City Centre Rotana Doha: Sustainability Practices
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n line with Rotana Earth programme, Rotana’s global corporate sustainability platform, City Centre Rotana Doha participated in the second edition of Qatar Sustainability Week, held from October 28 to November 04. The initiative plays a crucial role in raising awareness among the wider community, while showcasing the progress Qatar has made in the areas of sustainability and green buildings. Rotana's comprehensive waste management systems benefit the hotels by decreasing waste and reducing the cost of waste disposal. During Sustainability Week, City Centre Rotana Doha was committed to saving the environment by implementing reduce, reuse and recycle.
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AIR
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Mozambique
Qatar Airways Celebrates Five Years of Service to Mozambique On October 31, Qatar Airways celebrated its five-year anniversary of operating direct flights from Doha to Maputo, Mozambique.
Emirates Enhances Nigeria Service
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he airline celebrated this milestone by giving away gifts to arriving and departing passengers at Maputo International Airport. Mozambique continues to be one of the most popular tourist destinations on the airline’s Africa network, and currently, Qatar Airways operates three flights a week to Maputo with an Airbus A330 aircraft. H.E. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “In the past five years, Maputo has demonstrated just how attractive it is as a tourist destination. An excellent example of an underserved destination, this hidden African gem has offered many tourists a truly memorable and authentic experience [...].”
mirates announced it will reinstate its second daily service to Lagos and resume operations to Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja, with four weekly flights effective from December 15. The added frequencies to Lagos will be operated with Emirates’ Boeing 777-300ER aircraft and the reinstated service to Abuja will be served by a Boeing 777-300. By operating a double-daily service to Lagos and four weekly flights to Abuja, the airline will offer travellers in Nigeria convenient and comfortable access to other parts of the world. Meeting the requirements of today’s challenging market, the airline, along with facilitating an improved passenger experience, aims to elevate the quality of services across the airline’s expanding network.
Royal Air Maroc Adds CasablancaFrankfurt Service
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n November 02, Royal Air Maroc launched a new direct service between Casablanca and Frankfurt, as part of its continuous fleet expansion strategy. The new flight operates twice weekly with a Boeing 737-300F. The new capacity will enhance connectivity from Frankfurt to North and West Africa as well as South America, especially Brazil giving passengers more convience when travelling. Along with facilitating an improved passenger experience, the airline will operate Boeing 737-300LR freighter to Frankfurt beginning from March 2018.
DAE Leases Boeing 9-787 Dreamliners to Gulf Air
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ubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) announced its leasing division, DAE Capital and Gulf Air have signed an aircraft lease agreement for five Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft that are scheduled to enter the carrier’s fleet in 2018. These modern, fuel efficient planes will help Gulf Air expand its network, facilitating the long-term expansion of the airline's future network requirement. Waleed Abdulhameed Al Alawi, deputy CEO, Gulf Air, commented on the agreement, “[...] The incoming aircraft represent an important step in our strategic direction towards furthering Gulf Air’s fleet modernisation process, enhancing passenger comfort and broadening our network as we look to strengthen our presence across the globe.” 2 DECEMBER 2017
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AIR Boeing Expands Oman Air’s Fleet
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oeing announced a 10-year agreement to provide customer services from the Boeing Global Fleet Care portfolio to Oman Air. The agreement, which provides line replaceable unit support for 787 Dreamliner engines, builds on the foundation of a previously contracted component services programme with the airline in 2015 and strengthens the services commitment. The programme includes exchange and repair services that increase efficiency in managing high-value parts, components, and line-replaceable units “The ability to customise our propulsion support will augment our overall maintenance operations flexibility for our fleet. It is a great addition to our long-term partnership,” said Ali Redha Al-Lawatiya, executive vice president, engineering and maintenance, Oman Air.
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Saudia Offers Wi-Fi Onboard
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audia is now offering guests flying to 47 international destinations the option to connect to its Wi-Fi service to experience the airline’s onboard connectivity. On six of these routes, to Los Angeles, Washington, New York, London Heathrow, Manchester and Dubai, passengers in economy class can access complimentary Wi-Fi for a 20 minute segment, after which several packages are available for purchase. Packages may be purchased in advance of travel, with a code sent directly by email and to a mobile device, or passengers may use their e-ticket number as the Wi-Fi access code.
Royal Jordanian and Boeing Enter Training Agreement
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oyal Jordanian announced at this year’s Dubai Air Show, that it has selected Boeing to provide its 787 flight training. Under the five-year strategic agreement, Boeing will provide Royal Jordanian with a comprehensive training solution, including pilot type-rating and recurrent training at its London Gatwick training campus. “We are excited by Boeing’s proven training expertise,” said Stefan Pichler, CEO, Royal Jordanian. “To attract a new generation of pilots, we need to inspire them and train them in new ways, and Boeing is at the forefront of developing innovative training methods.”
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AIR
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Air Arabia to Lease Six Airbus A321
Bombardier Signs Contract with EgyptAir
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ir Arabia has signed a leasing agreement with US-based Air Lease Corporation for six Airbus A321neo long range aircraft. The 215-seat passenger jets will be delivered from 2019 and will be the first Airbus A321 aircraft to join Air Arabia’s fleet. Air Arabia currently operates a fleet of 50 Airbus 320 aircraft and expects to take delivery of three more Airbus A320s in 2018, plus a further six Airbus A320s in 2019. The new Airbus A321neos are expected to boost the airline’s long range capacity, allowing it to open new routes to Asian destinations such as China, Malaysia and Thailand.
flydubai Orders 225 Boeing 737 MAX
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lydubai has announced a commitment to a USD27 billion order for 225 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to support the growth of its fleet. This is the third aircraft order placed by the airline with Boeing in its eight-year history and follows orders placed in 2008 and 2013. The airline, by the end of this year will have a fleet of 61 Next-Generation Boeing 737-800 aircraft and Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. In addition, there is a pipeline of 70 aircraft due for delivery by 2023. Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai, added, “Today marks the next chapter in flydubai’s success story.”
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uring the Dubai Airshow, Bombardier announced that it has signed a letter of intent for up to 24 CS300 aircrafts with EgyptAir. Based on the list price of the CS300 airliner, a firm-order contract would be valued at USD1.1 billion, but also if the airline exercises the 12 purchase rights for CS300 aircraft, the contract value would increase to USD2.2 billion. “It is our pleasure to have this new partnership with Bombardier, which came as a continuation of our fleet modernisation strategy. We undertook a thorough evaluation process of our fleet and realised that the CS300 would fit perfectly into our business plans and growth strategy,” said Safwat Musallam, chairman, EgyptAir.
Kuwait Airways Partners with AFI KLM E&M
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s part of its continuous fleet expansion strategy, Kuwait Airways signed an agreement with Air France Industries and KLM Engineering & Maintenance, whereby the company will provide the airline’s aircrafts with engines. The airline is entrusting maintenance of its fleet of GE90-115B engines to the company under a support by the hour contract covering engine removal management, shop visits, and AOG support. In order to improve travel experience, the 10 B777-300ER aircraft, which was recently integrated into the airline’s fleet, will see its engines equipped.
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INTERNATIONAL
AFRICA
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Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group Enters the Maldives
Ethiopian Airlines Announce Order for Four 777 Freighters
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oeing and Ethiopian Airlines have announced an order for four Boeing 777 freighters, the world’s largest and longest-range twin-engine cargo jet, in a deal valued at more than USD1.3 billion. "Operating high-performance airplanes such as the 777 Freighter is a reflection of our commitment to expand and support the growing imports and exports of our country and the African continent,” said Tewolde GebreMariam, group CEO, Ethiopian Airlines, who signed for the new airplanes at the Dubai Airshow.
arlson Rezidor Hotel Group has announced the signing of a management agreement for Radisson Blu Resort Maldives with Chang Hua Holdings. Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2019, the property is one of the most anticipated new developments in the Maldives, while also being the first Radisson Blu resort in the market. Located on the southern part of Maldives’ Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Radisson Blu Resort Maldives is situated 105 km from Male International Airport. Featuring 128 exclusive villas including family villas, and a premium overwater villa, the resort is set to strike a balance between stylish contemporary design and a truly Maldivian resort experience with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
Air Senegal to Implement SITA’s Horizon
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ir Senegal has become the latest airline in Africa to introduce SITA’s passenger services system, Horizon, to manage every aspect of its operations, from reservations and pricing to ticketing and departure control. Horizon offers an integrated range of passenger management services as its infrastructure is built on a flexible platform of core systems allowing each carrier to customise the system to meet their specific business requirements and to accommodate future growth. “[...] It is important that we have a passenger management system that [...] delivers a smooth experience for our passengers every step of the way [...],” said Philippe Bohn, CEO, Air Senegal.
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Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines Celebrate Delivery of Dreamliner
Airbnb to Invest a nd Boost Africa Community
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thiopian airlines' newest Boeing 787 touched down in Addis Ababa following a non-stop 13,444 km delivery flight from Boeing's Everett, Washington facility. The airline also conducted its 32nd Humanitarian Delivery Flight as part of what is hailed to be the first carrier in Africa to operate the Boeing 787-9. "[...]. Our investment in the latest technology airplanes is part of our Vision 2025 strategy and our commitment to our esteemed customers to offer complete onboard comfort. We will continue to invest in the most advanced aircraft to give our customers the best possible travel experience," said Tewolde GebreMariam, group CEO, Ethiopian Airlines.
irbnb is to invest USD1 million through 2020 to promote and support community-led tourism projects in Africa. The announcement was made by Chris Lehane, head, public policy and public affairs, Airbnb, at a press conference in Johannesburg City Hall. A prior study demonstrated how Airbnb hosts in Africa have welcomed 1.2 million guests in the past year, while earning USD139 million in host income. The investments are expected in 2018 and will focus in three main areas; empowering townships through hosting, promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism through technology and supporting locals and nonprofits through Airbnb travel.
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AMERICAS
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OTMPC Launches New Online Programme
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ntario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation (OTMPC) announced the launch of a new online training programme, targeting sales agents across the UK. The programme, Discover Ontario Agent, encourages agents to complete six modules, focusing on accommodation, excursions, signature experiences, festivals, events, and tips on how to explore the destination. These different modules are split by destinations including Toronto, Niagara Falls, Killarney and Northern Ontario, Manitoulin Island and Fathom Five National Marine Park, Ottawa and 1000 Islands, to showcase the diversity of Ontario.
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Positive Tourism for New Mexico
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usana Martinez, governor, New Mexico, announced that in 2016 the tourism industry generated the largest economic impact in state history for the seventh consecutive year, injecting USD6.4 billion into New Mexico’s economy. This represents a 2.1 percent increase over 2015 and equates to nearly USD730,600 spent by visitors to the region. The three largest sectors for visitor spending in 2016 were lodging at 31 percent, food and beverage at 23 percent, and retail at 17 percent. On average, each visitor spends USD183.50 during their trip in the region.
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New York Partners with Tokyo
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YC & Company and Tokyo Metropolitan Government have signed an official partnership to boost international tourism between New York and Tokyo. The city-to-city partnership includes a swap of marketing and advertising assets to influence seasonal travel. New York and Tokyo will exchange media to promote the other destination in their respective city. “[...] We look forward to learning from each other and working together in the years ahead to create mutually beneficial opportunities to increase international travel by positioning New York and Tokyo,” said Fred Dixon, CEO, NYC & Company.
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Auberge Resorts Collection to Manage Mukul
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s of November 15, Auberge Resorts Collection is set to manage Mukul Resort in Nicaragua. The resort features 37 accommodations, including 12 Beach Villas, private one- and two-bedroom suites offering indoor-outdoor space, ocean views, private swimming pools and gardens, wraparound decks and outdoor showers. Mukul’s four restaurants, La Mesa, La Terraza, Palapa Lounge and Tres Ceibas, showcase cuisine from the Americas and Nicaragua’s abundance of local product. Facilities include Spa Mukul, yoga classes, a private Guacalito golf, surfing and Auberge Adventures for exploration. “Mukul is an extraordinary destination and a testament to the vision of Don Carlos Pellas, who created a uniquely Nicaraguan experience that rivals the great resorts of the world,” said Dan Friedkin, owner, Auberge Resorts Collection.
Bahamasair Launching Service to Nassau from Bush Airport
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rom November 16, Bahamasair offers a twice-a-week nonstop service between Bush Airport and Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, Bahamas. During the inauguration period, passengers received complimentary refreshments, snacks, and their first bag checked for free aboard a Boeing 737-500 series aircraft. “We are excited that Houstonians and residents throughout the region can experience the beauty and unique culture of the Bahamas without the hassle of a layover,” said Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister, tourism and aviation, Bahamas. “Nassau is a great destination for all types of travellers, as well as the gateway to our Out Islands [...].”
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Jamaica Conference Addresses Tourism Role
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n November 27 – 29, the World Tourism Organization (UNTWO), the government of Jamaica, the World Bank Group and the Inter-American Development Bank will co-host a conference on Jobs and Inclusive Growth. The conference will commence under the theme Partnerships for Sustainable Tourism, where the impacts of natural disasters, such as the recent hurricane Irma will be assessed and discussed for the future of the sector in the Caribbean.
Caribbean
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Marriott Hotels Vancouver Open for Reservations
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he reservations for Vancouver’s hotels JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and the DOUGLAS, an Autograph Collection Hotel, opened on October 23, both under the roof of new urban resort Parq Vancouver. Each hotel is designed to impress, offering a collection of experiences that combine unparalleled luxury with grounding nature. Surrounded by the British Columbia coastline and showcasing views of city, ocean and mountains, the hotels are connected by an elevated sixth-floor park, seamlessly integrating the resort into the city skyline. Restricted entirely to the fourth floor, the multipurpose spaces include 13 boardrooms and ballrooms, including the Parq Grand Ballroom said to be the biggest hotel ballroom in Vancouver at 1450 m².
New Keele River by Canoe Expedition
Delta Joins Forces with Korean Air
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dventure Canada announced the launch of a new expedition for 2018, Keele River by Canoe. Starting and ending in Norman Wells, the 15-day itinerary includes wilderness campsites, fishing opportunities, meals prepared at camp, services of expert guides, and hikes, all within small group sizes and no portaging required. While taking in the vast surroundings en route, travellers will have the chance to sight caribou, moose, and bears. “At Adventure Canada, we are always concerned with looking backward as much as we look forward, and carrying a reverence for tradition into the new ways we explore our great country and beyond,” said Cedar Swan, CEO, Adventure Canada.
elta Air Lines and Korean Air took a step in the creation of their transPacific association with approval of a joint venture by the US Department of Transportation (DOT). The two carriers will offer customers in the US and Asia an enhanced flight network creating a combined network serving more than 290 destinations in the Americas and more than 80 in Asia. Meanwhile, the airlines have also applied for approval for the joint venture from the Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. “We thank the DOT for approving this world-class partnership, which will create more choices, frequencies and destinations for customers travelling between the key markets in the US and Asia,” said Ed Bastian, CEO, Delta.
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ASISA PACIFIC
Hong Kong International Airport Technovation Held
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n November 02, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AA) held its third annual Hong Kong International Airport Technovation Conference and Exhibition. The conference saw more than 650 participants from the airport community, government and technology, and innovation industries along with representatives of the airports of Frankfurt, London and Toronto, to explore the theme of Data Analytics and Intelligence Applications. The exhibition examined the trends and possibilities of such applications in airport operations, inviting participants to brainstorm new ideas and stimulate new think-
ing for improving both work processes and the passenger experience.
Hong Kong
INTERNATIONAL
TAT to Launch Amazing Green: A’Maze 2017
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he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) highlighted Amazing Green: A’Maze 2017, an agricultural tourism project. Having taken place from November 18 – 26 at the Kanchanaburi College of Agriculture, the interactive event invited visitors to wander through a corn-field maze exhibition. “Children got to develop their problem-solving skills and use their imagination through challenging games and activities, while adults had fun and felt like kids again. [...],” said Yuthasak Supasorn, governor, TAT. Aiming to promote agricultural tourism in Thailand, the forum featured exhibitions, displaying eco-friendly products as well as workshops, allowing children to grow vegetables from seedlings and design their own arts and crafts.
Travel Agents Explore Western Australia
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ourism Western Australia and Qantas hosted 10 travel agents from New Zealand on an action packed six-day familiarisation trip to Exmouth, Coral Bay, Perth, Fremantle and the Swan Valley. The objective of the trip was to showcase key holiday experiences in the Ningaloo Reef region, where travel agents had the chance to swim with manta rays and turtles and the revitalisation in Perth. The trip was held ahead of Qantas’ direct seasonal flights from Auckland to Perth between December this year and March 2018.
Vietjet Launches New Routes Vietjet has announced two new routes from Ho Chi Minh City to Phuket and to Chiang Mai serving the travel and trade demands between these well-known tourist destinations in Vietnam, Thailand and Hong Kong through connecting flights. The four-times weekly flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Chiang Mai will run from December 12, and Ho Chi Minh City to Phuket from December 15, also four times a week. With the opening of the two new routes, Vietjet now operates six routes to the Thailand.
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BASED IN ATHENS, WITH ONE BRANCH IN ISTANBUL, MIDEAST TRAVEL WORLDWIDE SPECIALISES IN TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS TO MIDDLE EASTERN COUNTRIES. KATERINA MOUSBEH, MANAGING DIRECTOR, MIDEAST TRAVEL WORDLWIDE EXPLAINS HOW THE COMPANY MANAGED TO EARN THE TRUST OF PRESTIGIOUS ORGANISATIONS.
Q&A with KATERINA MOUSBEH MANAGING DIRECTOR, MIDEAST TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What makes the Middle East an attractive destination to clients and which are your top-selling destinations?
competitors and what are the main priorities of the company when it comes to handling the requirements of VIPs?
KATERINA MOUSBEH: The culture of the Middle Eastern countries is so different and so similar to the Greek culture with people having many cultural elements in common. Mideast Travel Worldwide, since the very first day of its operation, has been servicing not only foreigners visiting our country but also Greek travellers willing to meet new destinations such as Jordan and Lebanon. Today, after 35 consecutive years of operation, Mideast Travel Worldwide has become the only company in the Greek market specialising in both incoming and outgoing business and leisure travel to Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Lebanon, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and more. Our top selling destinations among the Middle Eastern countries include Jordan, Lebanon and the UAE.
KATERINA MOUSBEH: Our We care philosophy defines our whole existence. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of service to our clients and treat their goals as our own. We respect and value our employees, creating a working environment that is professionally challenging and personally rewarding. The passion for challenge is in our DNA. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Based on Airports Council International’s data, Middle Eastern airports continue to deliver the fastest growth rate worldwide. In light of the region’s fast-paced development, what are your expectations for the future? KATERINA MOUSBEH: As it is understandable, these growing numbers clearly depict the economic development of these countries, which are now included among the powerful countries of the world. What is very interesting for us is the fact that more and more charter flights are flying to Greece, showing the excessive demand for our country as it comes from these markets. Mideast Travel Worldwide, over the last past years, organises Greek Tourism Workshops in Middle Eastern countries on an annual basis, tightening the bonds with the local tourism market while also strengthening further its leading position as a destination management company [a title that the company received for the fourth consecutive year in a row during this year’s World Travel Awards].
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How has demand for trips to the Middle East grown over the past years? KATERINA MOUSBEH: Over the past few years, a great demand for travelling to the Middle Eastern countries has been observed, especially in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. This could be attributed to the favourable conditions offered by these markets to Greek enterprises, giving them the opportunity to create strong partnerships and potential expansion. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the core values of the company that set it apart from its Kefalonia, Greece
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ASISA PACIFIC
Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbor Opens
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ofitel Sydney Darling Harbor has opened boasting 590-rooms including 35 suites and views of Darling Harbor and the city. Three bars and the Atelier restaurant by Sofitel, are present in the hotel, with the aim of becoming places where guests can meet for a drink or enjoy a dinner in Sydney. The fourth floor pool bar allows guests to sip cocktails, swim in the 20 m infinity pool or train at the fully-equipped gym. The hotel also features nine meeting spaces, including the grandiose ballroom, capable of accommodating up to 450 people, flexible for all the types of events.
Golden Tulip Launches in Shanghai
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olden Tulip has opened its flagship in Shanghai, located in the heart of the Hongqiao development zone. Proposing 600 rooms, 1000 m² of conference space, two bars and four restaurants. Guests will be able to choose between the TASTES restaurant, L’ATELIER QUARTIER, and ZE TOP, the hotel’s rooftop bar.
Golden Tulip, Shanghai
Minor Hotels to Add AVANI Resort in Hua Hin
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inor Hotels announced a partnership with B&G Park, to operate a resort in the beachside town of Hua Hin in Thailand. Currently operating as Ananda Hua Hin Resort & Spa, the property was rebranded to AVANI Hua Hin Resort & Villas on November 20 and represents an investment of USD22.5
million. Showcasing 196 rooms, pool villas and suites with views of the garden, pool and ocean, the resort boasts direct access to the main lagoon pool. The resort’s main attributes include two restaurants, a Jazz Club, AVANISPA, AVANIFIT gym, AVANI Kids Club with indoor and outdoor facilities and a lagoon style swimming pool.
Movenpick Hotels & Resorts Debuts in Chiang Mai
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n November 07, Movenpick Hotels & Resorts made its mark in northern Thailand with the opening of Mövenpick Suriwongse Hotel Chiang Mai. Guests can choose from seven different room categories including classic, superior, deluxe, premier, junior suite, suites, and family suites. The 266-room property also includes a lobby bar and rooftop pool bar, whilst the Sweet House serves home-made bakery items. Featuring two multifunctional venues, the hotel can cater to a wide range of events.
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INTERNATIONAL
Wild Coast Tented Lodge Opens
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he Sri Lankan family behind Dilmah Tea and the Resplendent Ceylon collection of hotels has revealed its third property, Wild Coast Tented Lodge, which opened on November 01. The 28-tented cocoon suites, boast jungle views and four secluded beach-facing suites offer private plunge pools, whilst a further 16 suites cluster around water holes, attracting a variety of local wildlife. Present is the open-air bambooclad bar and restaurant surrounding the swimming pool, where guests can enjoy cocktails and authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Guests can also enjoy wilderness experiences with walks through the national park, and a variety of lectures and workshops.
ONYX Hospitality Group to Open New Properties
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NYX Hospitality Group celebrated the results of this year which has seen openings in new markets including the 172-room Amari Galle Sri Lanka, the 73-room Amari Yangshuo in Guilin, China and Amari Johor Bahru in southern Peninsula Malaysia. The group has announced its new strategic aim of having 99 hotels open across the Asia-Pacific region by 2024. The hospitality group expects a number of openings in 2018, including the group’s first hotel in Vietnam, OZO Hoi An, which is said to become the largest OZO property to date with 364 rooms and the entry of the flagship Amari brand to Laos with Amari Vang Vieng, which features 160 guest rooms and suites.
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Ferdinand Shows Skills at London Heathrow
Ramada Ajman Wins Football Tournament
Prior to former football player’s, Rio Ferdinand’s, flight to Dubai, himself and Rick Basnett, captain, British Airways, enjoyed a friendly kickabout outside British Airways’ First Wing at Terminal 5 at London Heathrow Airport. Ferdinand, who helped launch the first-ever Dubai Fitness Challenge, an initiative by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, crown prince, Dubai, encouraging residents to do 30 minutes of exercise for 30 days. He also spent a week in the emirate training aspiring footballers at an exclusive training programme. “The Dubai Fitness Challenge was really fun and I was happy to be involved,” said Ferdinand. “Fitness is a way of life; you can’t just wake up and be fit. I train regularly, not just for fitness but for the mind too.”
Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman’s football team triumphed at the annual football tournament for hoteliers in the emirate, beating nine other hotel teams at the two-day match held at Al Malaeb Sports Complex. “Well done to Ramada Ajman team for another sports victory! We are proud and thrilled to organise and take part in activities, such as this, which strengthen camaraderie in our organisation. In addition, it is important for the staff to get active and healthy and take a break from their jobs to re-energise and have fun,” said Iftikhar Hamdani, cluster general manager, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman and Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman.
FWC Showcases Project in India
Almoosa
Falconcity of Wonders (FCW) found stronger connections with India’s property seekers during its participation in the Indian leg of the Dubai Property Show which took place on November 03 – 05, at the Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai, India. Indians are among FCW’s foreign investor groups showing interest in the development’s The World in a City theme. Once completed, the multipurpose mega project will include modern versions of world-famous landmarks such as the Pyramids Park, the Dubai Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the Dueiffel Tower Dubai. H.E. Salem Almoosa, chairman, FCW, said, “Indians are major movers within the UAE’s dynamic real estate scene, especially here in Dubai where they are drawn to the multicultural atmosphere and diverse real estate offerings.”
Rio Ferdinand
ADTD Launched Tin Can Collection Campaign
Tin Can Collection Campaign
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Ajman Tourism Development Department (ADTD), in collaboration with the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), launched an environment-friendly campaign to protect the environment, serve the community and to highlight the importance of sustainability. ADTD employees, volunteers, students and staff from Ajman-based companies and organisations took part in a tin can collection campaign, to highlight the
concept of recycling in the emirate. During the campaign, cans were collected and delivered simultaneously across all emirates, to representatives of ADTD and the EEG, where an overall 5,537 kg of cans came together. Mazen Khaddour, representative, Ramada Ajman Hotel & Suites, said, “The hotel’s participation in the campaign is in response to government and community efforts to raise awareness on the concept of recycling.”
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JA Ocean View emerged victorious in the relay race, with TIME Hotels in second place and First Central Hotel third
Millennium Plaza Dubai won UAEs Best Family Hotel for 2017
Adam Boukadida, acting group treasurer at Etihad Aviation Group, pictured centre with his Treasury Professional of the Year award, flanked by Matthew Hurn, chief financial officer at Mubadala
Etihad Airways Celebrated 10th Anniversary of Flights to Nepal by honouring key stake holders
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Hamad International Airport recognised as the Best Airport in West Asia at the Future Travel Experience Global Awards
Swiss-Belhotel International at the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference during a panel discussion on the future of PMS and guest-facing technology
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NEWS & EVENTS Technology Empowers AccessAbilities Expo
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H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, announced the need for assistive technology which helps people of determination, empowering and enabling them to function independently, in order to reach the maximum number of people with disabilities ahead of AccessAbilities Expo, which took place on November 07 – 09. The three-day expo had participation from over 150 companies including countries like the US, Canada, South Korea, the UK, Australia, Cyprus, India, China, and the UAE, who showcased the world’s latest assistive technology products and solutions and robotics. Organised by Reed Exhibitions, Middle East, the expo aims to benefit over 750 million individuals with disabilities worldwide, 50 million of whom are in the Middle East.
Successful IGN Convention Bahrain 2017
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he fifth edition of the IGN Convention Bahrain hosted by Tarteeb and its partner, the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), was held at the Bahrain International Circuit, on October 20 – 21, with more than 14,000 visitors from the Asia Pacific region. It featured interactive games of Factory 13, FIFA, Call of Duty and Overwatch, live performances, and cosplay competitions as well as Meet and Greets with celebrities. “[...] The fifth edition of the IGN Convention Bahrain has witnessed a tremendous turnout [...]. We aim to host a series of events and activities across the Kingdom [...].”said H.E. Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, CEO, BTEA.
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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 out of Greece where buyers of travel services meet with suppliers from the domestic and abroad.
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