3 FEBRUARY 2018 ISSUE 430
05 ACCOMMODATION
Minor Hotels Announces Oaks Beirut
07
CITY CENTRE AJMAN DEBUTS BRAND INVESTMENT
11
ETIHAD AIRWAYS EXECUTIVE BREAKS WORLD RECORD
MARKET UPDATE
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
INTERNATIONAL TOURISM RESULTS IN 2017
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
International tourist arrivals grew by a remarkable seven percent in 2017 to reach a total of 1.3 million, according to the latest World Tourism Organization’s Barometer.
EDITOR Mario Hajiloizis PRESS Efi Rousi Maria Angelica Constantinou Athena Karsera Yiazou 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 2.2.2018
2
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
113.41
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
17.64
Iran (IRR)
Rial
36,947.05
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,184.61
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,510.20
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.32
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.11
Syria (SYP)
Pound
515.04
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.03
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.25
T
his strong momentum is expected to continue this year at a rate of four to five percent. The seven percent increase, based on data reported by destinations around the world, is well above the sustained and consistent trend of four percent, or higher growth since 2010, and represents the strongest results in seven years. Led by Mediterranean destinations, Europe recorded extraordinary results for such a large and rather mature region, with eight percent more international arrivals than in 2016. Africa consolidated its 2016 rebound with an eight percent increase.
CHANGING MIDDLE EAST AIRPORT SECURITY Security is continuing to play an increasingly important role as airports remain keen to accelerate their outputs, minimise disruption and ensure a better customer experience.
A
irports in the Middle East, especially the UAE, have been at the forefront when it comes to adopting the latest security technologies. More than USD100 billion worth of airport-related projects are planned and underway across the Middle East and North Africa region, as governments look to update and expand their infrastructure. The global airport security market is projected to grow seven percent a year CAGR until 2024, reaching a value of USD16 billion, according to a report by Global Market Insights. The most future proof airport security products and services from around the world will be on display at an exhibition in Dubai being organised as part of Airport Show in May.
3 FEBRUARY 2018
AGENTS
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
HalalBooking.com Increase Customer Offerings The booking engine has developed new technology allowing hotels to add their information and rates to the site automatically.
T
he company’s plan is to rapidly increase the number of its accommodation options, with the aim of listing 10,000 properties by the end of this year. Much of this will be in major European cities such as Paris, Rome and London. Additionally, the company also announced the launch of its loyalty programme, HB Loyalty Club, which has three status tiers, Gold, Platinum and Diamond. Gold members will earn discounts of up to 10 percent on many hotels around the world. Customers move up status tiers by making more bookings. As they increase their status, the available discounts will increase, with Platinum and Diamond members earning higher discounts of up to 20 percent.
Expedia Affiliate Network and ANIXE Join Forces
T
ravel providers in Central and Eastern Europe will be able to access Expedia Affiliate Network’s (EAN) full suite of hotel accommodations, competitive rates and availabilities following an agreement with ANIXE. The new venture will broaden ANIXE’s hotel inventory offering, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe, where many travel providers were previously unable to access EAN’s rates and availability due to differences in data management methods. Alfonso Paredes, vice president, sales, EMEA and LATAM, EAN, said, “We are constantly evolving our product offering in line with our partner’s feedback and the needs of the global travel market. [...].”
Paredes
Carnival Cruise to Pay Commission on Wedding Packages
O
n January 01, Carnival Cruise Line began paying travel agents a commission on wedding package sales. Commission tiers for wedding packages are based on wedding package sales made until March 31. Additionally, travel agents will earn accelerated commissions on wedding packages during this Wave Season booking period. "While onboard wedding celebrations offer travel
3 FEBRUARY 2018
agents an excellent opportunity to build multigenerational group business, they also take an extra effort to organise," said Adolfo Perez, vice president, Carnival Cruise Line. "We wanted to be sure that agents know we value the added work that goes into these sales by offering commission on them moving forward." Carnival Cruise Line has also recently introduced new wedding package options.
3
TECHNOLOGY
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Viajes El Corte Inglés Offering Amadeus’ cytric T&E Viajes El Corte Inglés has become Spain’s first travel management company to offer its corporate customers Amadeus’ corporate online booking and expense management tool, cytric Travel & Expense (T&E).
Batelco and AFS Launch bWallet
B
atelco and Arab Financial Services (AFS) have launched bWallet, a new digital mobile wallet and payment solution. The launching event took place on January 09 at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay with invited VIPs, guests, Batelco and AFS board members and management present at the occasion. bWallet enhances customer’s experience through innovative ways to pay and transfer money. All mobile users, regardless of which operator they use, can benefit from this financial technology, which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play Store. A simple registration process allows users to enjoy a fast, contactless and secure payment experience. Over 40 leading brands, with 300 retail outlets, have already signed up to make the service available for their customers with many more set to be soon onboard.
4
A
s part of the global reseller agreement, it will migrate 85 customers from its existing solution as a first phase, as well as implementing new customers globally. Viajes El Corte Inglés and its corporate customers will be able to filter travel options, while the solution also helps travellers stay compliant as the vast majority of expenses will be pre-approved and claimed before the trip. Travellers also benefit from the option to scan and upload receipts directly to the cytric Mobile Companion application, while corporate customers will maintain a direct line of communication with their travellers.
Emirates Upgrades IT Deal with IBM
I
BM and Emirates have signed a 10 year, USD85 million contract for the management of the airline’s information technology (IT). This will include the implementation of data centre services and a private cloud allowing employees to have remote access to company applications. The agreement, which was signed in the third quarter of 2017, expands the USD300 million agreement signed in 2016.
Amr Refaat, general manager, Middle East and Pakistan, IBM, commented, “Under the new agreement, Emirates will benefit from a resilient, scalable and agile service, as well as operational savings. With its expanding global footprint, it is imperative that Emirates’ IT operations are streamlined and accessible to its employees anywhere and anytime, and this is where our expertise comes into play to achieve this.”
3 FEBRUARY 2018
ACCOMMODATION
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Oaks Beirut
Minor Hotels Announces Oaks Beirut MINOR HOTELS WILL DEBUT ITS OAKS BRAND IN LEBANON AFTER SIGNING A MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT WITH ALLIED INVESTMENT GROUP TO OPERATE OAKS BEIRUT.
3 FEBRUARY 2018
S
cheduled to launch in the middle of this year, the 110-key property will be located in Sodeco, a commercial area of Beirut, approximately a five minutes’ drive from the vibrant central downtown area and 15 minutes from Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport. The property will provide a selection of guest rooms and suites, with facilities, including an all-day dining restaurant, a lounge bar and café, a rooftop pool and bar, plus dedicated conference facilities. Previously operating as Hotel de Ville Beirut, the hotel is currently undergoing a full refurbishment to relaunch as Oaks. Dillip Rajakarier, CEO, Minor Hotels, said, “[…] Adding Lebanon to our footprint has considerable strategic value […].”
Golden Sands Anticipates Growth
G
olden Sands Hotel Apartments, part of A.A. Al Moosa Enterprises, has witnessed an increase of 10 percent in visitor arrivals from India in 2017, and is expecting to double its growth this year. Golden Sands hopes to continue to attract a bigger share of this market through an aggressive marketing campaign and participation in trade shows, including SATTE in New Delhi from January 31 to February 02. Presently, India is the number one source market for Dubai’s inbound tourism, with a 20 percent increase between January and September 2017, over the same period in 2016.
5
AIRPORTS
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Hamad International Airport
Hamad International Airport Among Most Punctual Airports Hamad International Airport welcomed 120 million passengers since the beginning of its operations on May 27, 2014.
I
n 2017, cargo observed an increase of 14.52 percent, with total of 1.9 million tonnes in handling. The airport successfully recovered its passenger numbers with an average monthly increase of 3.75 percent in the second half of 2017, after an initial drop in volume in June 2017, due to regional political restrictions imposed on Qatar. The airport has been recognised for its punctuality, ranking among the most punctual major airports scoring 85.41 percent on-time performance, as demonstrated in aviation analysts OAG’s 2017 Punctuality Report.
New Terminal Building Highlighted at BAC Workshop
B
ahrain Airport Company (BAC) held a workshop for the airport’s stakeholders to discuss the National Operations Readiness and Airport Transfer platform, which aims to ensure a smooth transition to Bahrain International Airport’s new passenger terminal building. In attendance were senior officials from Bahrain Civil Aviation Authority, other government authorities, and other representatives of key organisations
operating at the airport. The first in a series of workshops that will take place prior to the opening of the new passenger terminal building, this effort aims to inform stakeholders of the facilities, systems, processes, and procedures that are part of the Airport Modernisation Programme currently underway. Overall, stakeholders were invited to discuss methods of elevating the current passenger experience.
Duty Free at Sharjah Airport Re-opens
From left: Al Midfa, H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Saoud Al Qassimi, director, Sharjah Airport Authority; Donald De Souza, director commercial, Sharjah Airport Authority
S Airport Stakeholders at the BAC Workshop
6
harjah International Airport re-opened its Duty Free shopping area on January 16 following an extensive renovation. Its re-oppening event attracted internationally-recognised brands, in addition to its original nine stores, extending the total Duty Free area to 1,800 m2. The renovation project is part of Sharjah International Airport’s efforts to provide passengers and customers with a diverse range of luxury products, souvenirs and services of the highest possible standard, tax-free and customs fees free. H.E. Ali Salim Al Midfa, chairman, Sharjah Airport Authority, commented, "The renewal of our Duty Free market facilities and units is part of our ongoing commitment to innovation and exclusivity through unique partnerships with the world's largest brands." 3 FEBRUARY 2018
WEEKLY NEWS
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
City Centre Ajman
Sultan Al Qasimi Launches Trio of Real Estate Projects
City Centre Ajman Debuts Brand Investment Majid Al Futtaim announced the opening of 50 international brands and dining concepts as part of its ongoing enhancement project at City Centre Ajman. Maryam Island project
H.
H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, ruler, Sharjah, unveiled three real estate projects to be developed in the emirate. Worth a total of AED2.7 billion (USD735 million), the trio of projects are the result of a joint venture between Sharjah Investment and Development Authority and Eagle Hills. The three projects include, Maryam Island, Kalba Waterfront, and Palace Al Khan.
Maryam Island will be a waterside development and will spread across 460,000 m2, with a built-up area of 310,000 m2. Kalba Waterfront is a retail development that is set to become one of the most prominent such projects in the region. The mall will house 86 retail outlets. Finally, Palace Al Khan, is the first luxury waterfront resort in the heart of Sharjah city. The five-star hotel will extend over 66,300 m2.
#BeMyGuest Campaign Recreated
D
C
ity Centre Ajman is transforming into a regional mall following a AED643 million (USD175 million) investment, which is a part of Majid Al Futtaim’s previously announced intention, in June 2016, to increase its total UAE investment by AED30 billion (USD8 billion) by 2026. This will take its total investment in the country to AED48 billion (USD13 billion). As City Centre Ajman transforms into a regional shopping mall, directors at Majid Al Futtaim Properties are expected to focus on a contemporary design with convenience and accessibility at the centre of their services. This is in addition to a tailored retail mix with dynamic new brands and unique dining and entertainment concepts that will continue to make it a destination of choice for both residents and tourists.
3 FEBRUARY 2018
ubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing revealed its #BeMyGuest campaign video, featuring famous Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan. While the first video, which took YouTube by storm in 2017, featured Khan surprising residents and visitors around Dubai, this year the actor explores what he considers to be his second home and takes viewers on a fascinating, multi-faceted journey through the city of endless possibilities. The newly launched 2.0 #BeMyGuest portrays Khan’s journey across a series of short films that see him taking visitors through a multifaceted destination that holds a global brand appeal in much the same way he does as an actor.
Shah Rukh Khan
7
WEEKLY NEWS
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Infrastructure Network Contract Signed for Jeddah Tower and Jeddah Economic City
DMCA Secures ISO Recognition
E
I
ng Talal Almaiman, CEO, Kingdom Holding Company (KHC) signed a SR620 million (USD165 million) agreement to commence work on its infrastructure networks for Jeddah Economic City and Jeddah Tower, hailed as the world’s tallest tower. The work is expected to be completed within the next 12 months by Al-Fouzan Trading & General Construction Company.
The signing ceremony took place on January 17 at KHC’s headquarters in Riyadh, in the presence of Saleh Al Henaki, CEO, Alinma Investment Company (AIC); Sultan AlKusayer, fund manager, AIC; Mohammed Al Eisa, assistant fund manager, AIC; Tarik Al Fouzan, CEO, Al Fouzan Trading & General Construction Company; and Mounib Hammoud, CEO, JEC.
Jeddah Tower plan
n its efforts to boost Dubai’s global maritime leadership, Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) has received the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 31000:2009 for implementing its Risk Management Framework that meets the highest international standards. The international recognition highlighted DMCA’s leadership in applying best risk management practices to build a secure and sustainable maritime sector that supports the country’s economic diversification policy, and preparations for a post-oil economy and to perform well in an environment full of uncertainty. Amer Ali, executive director, DMCA, said that receiving ISO 31000:2009 is an important step towards building a resilient maritime community.
Dubai Maritime City
Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve Dubai Launches
H.
H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler, Dubai, has launched the Marmoom Reserve project, the UAE's first unfenced desert conservation reserve. The reserve is also set to be the largest sustainable environment, tourism and recreational project in the country. Enjoying over 40 ha of fertile area, the reserve is home to over 204 species of native birds, 158 species of migratory birds, and over 10 km of lakes, encompassing the Al Qudra Lakes. The new project is being designed to include 10 animal and bird observation platforms, star and sunset observation decks, areas for yoga, and an outdoor theatre that can host 350 spectators. By 2030, it is expected to host more than 20 annual sporting events, which will attract an estimated 20,000 participants. Its cycling tracks are also set to be the longest in any desert anywhere in the world.
8
H.H. Al Maktoum (Centre) and Associates, Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
3 FEBRUARY 2018
AIR
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Qatar Airways Brings Airbus A350 to Greece for the First Time Qatar Airways has announced that it is the first airline to ever fly the state-of-theart Airbus A350 to Greece.
T
he airline temporarily upgraded its current triple-daily service to Athens to an ultra-modern Airbus A350, with the arrival of the flight greeted by a traditional water canon salute at Athens International Airport, on January 15. The Airbus A350 aircraft features an extra-wide cabin design, and passengers on board are offered high-definition touch screens with dual-screen function that allows for simultaneous viewing. Passengers can also enjoy a variety of entertainment options through the Oryx One entertainment system, as well as connect to the Internet through the carrier's on board Wi-Fi service. Additionally, in March the airline is set to launch non-stop flights to Thessaloniki, its second destination in Greece. The four-times weekly new service between Doha and Thessaloniki is expected to be operated by an Airbus A320 aircraft.
Royal Jordanian’s Punctuality Success
Turkish Airlines Reaches Highest Load Factor
R
T
oyal Jordanian has ranked second in punctuality among Middle East and African airlines with an 80.67 percent on-time performance (OTP) rate in 2017, according to OAG's Punctuality League study, released earlier this year. The study on 57 million flight records, used full-year data from 2017 to rank the world’s airlines and airports best OTP, which characterises flights that occur within 15 minutes of their scheduled arrival or departure times. To qualify for inclusion in the Punctuality League , flight status data for at least 80 percent of all scheduled flights operated by the airline or for the airport must be provided. Stefan Pichler, CEO, Royal Jordanian, commented, “Punctuality is a must for any world-class airline.”
3 FEBRUARY 2018
Mövenpick to Open Basra Property
urkish Airlines has announced the number of passengers it carried in 2017 compared to 2016 increased by 9.3 percent. Turkey's flag carrier carried a total of 68.6 million passengers in 2017. Compared to 2016, the airline's load factor reached 79.1 percent, increasing by 4.7 percent. Turkish Airlines added that it reached the highest December load factor rate in its history with 79.5 percent. Mehmet İlker Aycı, chairman, executive committee, Turkish Airlines, had given the first signal of the carrier’s proven success at the end of 2017, stating, ‘‘We believe that 2017 will be a much better year than 2016. We made our plans and savings accordingly. We are analysing the conditions of our home country, our region, our industry, the developments and trends in the aviation and tourism sectors.”
9
AIR
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Jazeera Begins Ahmedabad Services
J Emirates to Resume Flights to Sabiha Gökçen Airport
E
mirates announced the resumption of flights between Dubai and Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, starting June 08. The resumption of services on the route will allow customers two destination options when travelling with the airline to Istanbul. The flight is scheduled to operate five times a week by a Boeing B777-300ER in a three class cabin
10
configuration. Together with Emirates’ other service to Istanbul, the airline will offer 16 flights and over 6,500 seats per week. The aircraft allows for an increase in cargo capacity to Istanbul, with a weekly total of 100 tonnes and makes Emirates the only airline operating a scheduled service with a wide-body aircraft at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport.
azeera Airways recently inaugurated flights to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad. Flights are initially due to operate three times a week on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Rohit Ramachandran, CEO, Jazeera Airways, commented, “We are delighted to continue our expansion in India with flights into Ahmedabad, an important economic and industrial hub, bringing more choice to Indian travellers, connecting them to Kuwait and across the Middle East – to Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar”. Adressing increased travel demands, Ahmedabad is the second of three new Jazeera Airways routes to India, following Hyderabad in November 2017 and Kochi on January 21.
3 FEBRUARY 2018
AIR
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Etihad Airways Executive Breaks World Record
A
Fisher
flynas to Expand Pakistan Operations
ndrew Fisher, vice president, fleet planning, Etihad Airways, embarked on a journey of a lifetime on January 21 in an attempt to break the world record of flying around the globe in the shortest time frame only on scheduled flights, and with the fewest number of sectors. Fisher shaved three hours off the current record of over 55 hours by completing the journey in only four sectors. His flight path began in Shanghai, taking him to Auckland, Buenos Aires and Amsterdam before returning to the Chinese city in the early hours on January 23. “It’s about time the job was done,” said Fisher. “The planning has taken a long time, essentially to ensure the flight timings, routings and transits were kept as tight as possible as there was only a short window of opportunity for this to happen.”
Qatar Airways Displays at Kuwait Aviation Show
Q
atar Airways participated in the inaugural Kuwait Aviation Show, where it displayed a Boeing B777 fitted with the new business class seat, Qsuite. The show, which took place from January 17 – 20, at Kuwait International Airport, also showcased Qatar Airways’ extra-wide body Airbus A350-900. The event hosted thousands of industry representatives and international media. Qatar Airways’ participation began this year on a high, after capping a success-filled 2017 of 11 new route launches and more than 50 award wins, as well as host of exciting new destinations planned for the upcoming year, including Pattaya, Thailand; Penang, Malaysia and Canberra, Australia, to name just a few.
Lahore
f
lynas is set to expand its network to Pakistan with the launch of Islamabad and Lahore services in February. The airline will operate a DammamLahore route five times per week, starting February 01, and three times per week from Riyadh to both Lahore and Islamabad starting on February 15. Hailed as Saudi Arabia’s leading lowcost carrier, flynas and has a fleet of 30 aircraft, operating over 1,000 scheduled flights every week. Since its launch in 2007, flynas had successfully carried more than 32 million passengers from its bases of Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Abha.
3 FEBRUARY 2018
Qsuite
11
INTERNATIONAL
AFRICA
Kenya Airways Announce First Ever Direct Flight From Nairobi to New York
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
African Parks Manage Mozambique Sanctuary
T New York
K
enya Airways unveiled its first ever non-stop direct flight from Nairobi to New York, becoming what is hailed to be the first airline company to operate such a service between East Africa and the US. Kenya Airways’ entry into the US marks a milestone development in the East African tourist portfolio, with expectations to attract more US tourists to the region, best known for its rich wildlife resources. Meeting the requirements of today’s challenging market, the airline prides itself on featuring the latest advanced aircraft design. Along with facilitating an improved passenger experience, the airline’s expansion in the US through direct flights aims to elevate the quality of services across Kenya Airways’ expanding network.
Bazaruto Archipelago National Park
Ethiopian Airlines Comes to Geneva
IHG Debuts in Algeria
South African Airways Partners with TAAG
G
I
S
enève Aéroport has announced the launch of a new longhaul connection to Addis Ababa, hailed as the first regular sub-Saharan Africa destination from Geneva. The flights will be operated by Ethiopian Airlines from June 03, with three rotations per week departing from Geneva, and three times weekly from Addis Ababa. The flight, operated by the all-new Boeing B787-8 Dreamliner, will make a short stop at Milano Malpensa airport in both directions. Addis Ababa Bole International Airport is the airline’s hub, facilitating Ethiopian Airlines connections to more than 50 African destinations. The arrival of Ethiopian Airlines is the culmination of Genève Aéroport’s efforts to develop an intercontinental quality service.
12
he National Administration of Conservation Areas of Mozambique has enlisted non-governmental organisation (NGO) African Parks to run Bazaruto Archipelago National Park for the next 25 years. The South Africa-based NGO said recent illegal fishing and unregulated tourism had threatened the Park's ecosystem and its economic value. Park revenues have taken a hit, adding to the burden of local communities already struggling with poverty. Bazaruto is hailed as a sanctuary for numerous marine life species. Peter Fearnhead, CEO, African Parks, said, “Bazaruto has the tremendous opportunity to show how a national park can create a conservation-led economy.”
nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced the opening of Holiday Inn Algiers, Cheraga Tower, marking the company’s debut in the country. Featuring 242 well-equipped rooms, the hotel offers a range of amenities with dining options coming from two restaurants. Additionally, guests can also enjoy beverages and snacks at two other outlets. Guests will also have access to a wellness floor consisting of a fitness centre, an indoor and outdoor pool, Hammam, sauna and a treatment and massage centre. The property also has four meeting rooms, a large banquet hall and an expansive indoor parking on three levels.
outh African Airways has signed a codeshare agreement with TAAG Angolan Airlines. As part of the extended agreement, South African Airways will codeshare with TAAG on its direct services between Johannesburg and Luanda, and Cape Town and Luanda, effective January 15. In the future, TAAG will also codeshare with South African Airways on its flights from Johannesburg to Harare, Lusaka and Hong Kong. Under the codeshare agreement, South African Airways is able to offer flights with the South African code on flights operated by TAAG, and TAAG is able to offer flights with its code on flights operated by South African Airways.
3 FEBRUARY 2018
AMERICAS
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Dominican Republic Focuses on Aviation
O
n January 09, a bilateral meeting was held with Miguel Octavio Vargas Maldonado, chancellor, Dominican Republic, and Olumuyiwa Benard Aliu, president, International Civil Aviation Organization Council, who encouraged the Dominican Republic to pursue its strategic and exemplary focus on aviation as a lever for national socio-economic growth, and to enhance its contributions to global momentum on sustainable aviation development. In his meeting with Maldonado, Aliu underscored that these achievements were made possible by support from the highest levels of the Dominican government to the efforts undertaken by the country's Institute of Civil Aviation.
Delta’s Growth in Seattle Continues
INTERNATIONAL
United Unveils Superheroes Olympic Campaign
I
n celebration of the US team’s participation in the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Pyeongchang, United Airlines is shining a spotlight on the 38-year relationship between the airline and the US Olympic Committee. Titled Superheroes, a new advertising campaign demonstrates the unique powers necessary to get to the games. The campaign will appear on television, online, in print and outdoor, in airports and on board United Airlines aircraft throughout the games, and can also be viewed on the airline’s website. Superheroes celebrates the six US Olympic and Paralympic athletes sponsored by United Airlines and their skills on the slopes and ice, as well as six airline employees selected to represent the 90,000 team members who go above and beyond to get customers to their destinations safely and comfortably on time.
Icelandair to Serve Kansas City
I
celandair announced a seasonal service to Kansas City International Airport, due to commence on May 25. The new service will offer three non-stop flights a week from Iceland with easy connections between Europe and North America. Kansas City offers visitors upmarket shopping, a thriving art scene, and plenty of fine dining. Meanwhile, Iceland has become one of the most sought after destinations in Europe. Only a seven-hour flight time from Kansas City International Airport, Iceland is described as a natural wonderland filled with geysers, glaciers and waterfalls. “In addition to non-stop access to one of the fastest growing tourism destinations, passengers will also appreciate the ease of transiting through Iceland on their way to Europe,” said Pat Klein, director, aviation, Kansas City International Airport.
Seattle
D
elta is kicking off the year with a 10 percent increase in peak-day seats at its Seattle hub for summer, driven by the addition of three new destinations, as well as more flights and larger aircraft operating between existing routes. The new destinations include Washington-Dulles and Kansas City, which are scheduled to launch June 08, and Indianapolis, which is expected to commence June 18. Washington-Dulles service will be operated using Boeing 737-800 aircraft, the Kansas City route will be operated using E-175 aircraft, and Indianapolis will be operated using Airbus A319 aircraft. Due to an increased demand from Seattle customers, Delta announced it will launch additional flights to Las Vegas, New York, Orlando and Medford during spring/summer and will expand its seasonal summer service to Cincinnati year-round.
3 FEBRUARY 2018
WestJet Reveals Record Results
W
estJet announced December 2017 traffic results with a load factor of 83.6 percent, an increase of 2.8 percentage points year-on-year. Revenue passenger miles, or traffic, increased 9.8 percent year-on-year, and capacity measured in available seat miles, grew six percent over the same period. The airline flew a record 2.1 million guests in the month under review, a year-over-year increase of 10 percent or approximately 190,000 additional guests. "We are very pleased with our significant growth in traffic, as we reported a record December load factor and flew a record number of guests in December 2017," said Gregg Saretsky, president, WestJet. “I want to thank our more than 13,000 WestJetters for their efforts."
13
INTERNATIONAL
AMERICAS
Carnival Triumph's 2019-20 Schedule Released
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
New Hotel and Attractions at Panama City Beach
V
isit Panama City Beach highlighted new plans for developments that will continue to enhance the destination. Opening this year, a 200-room SpringHill Suites by Marriott will include a lazy river and more family-friendly amenities. The St. Joe Company and InterMountain Management jointly announced a venture to develop a hotel in the Pier Park shopping and entertainment district. Spring will see the grand opening of an observation wheel that will rise more than 60.9 m above the Gulf of Mexico. A sports park has also been given final approval and is expected to open in early 2019. The 152-room beachfront Chateau Motel is developing a family resort.
Visit Florida Hosts Succesful Trade Show
Carnival Triumph
C
arnival Triumph will operate a diverse itinerary schedule in 2019-2020, with a wide variety of four- to 14-day departures from New York, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Norfolk, Virginia, to over 20 destinations throughout the Caribbean, Bahamas, Canada, New England, Bermuda and Panama Canal. Prior to the launch of this programme, Carnival Triumph is due to undergo an extensive multi-million-dollar refurbishment that will add a variety of food and beverage, and entertainment innovations.
Ctrip and OpenTable From Partnership
C
trip announced that Ctrip Gourmet List has formed a partnership with OpenTable, allowing Ctrip mobile app users to book thousands of restaurants across North America. Ctrip is also the first partner in the mainland China market, while north America is an increasingly popular destination for Chinese travellers. According to Ctrip's data, Chinese visitors to North America in 2017 spent on average USD2,458 per person. "Ctrip's partnership with OpenTable is more about just food, the table brings together local culture, communities, lifestyle and travel," said Kimi Liu, CEO, Ctrip Gourmet List.
14
V
isit Florida recently concluded another successful Florida Huddle trade show in Fort Lauderdale. As one of Visit Florida’s signature events, Florida Huddle brings together domestic and international tour operators and wholesaler buyers with the state's destinations, attractions, properties and service companies selling their products all under one roof. The event welcomed 603 attendees and 224 buyers from 14 countries, in addition to representatives from 34 media outlets.
Arizona Launches Visitor Mobile App
A
new Visit Arizona mobile application has been developed which uses location technology and behavioural-data collection to deliver customised recommendations to travellers. The app was developed by Arizona Office of Tourism, in conjunction with the Arizona-based tech firm Lighthouse PE. Debbie Johnson, director, Arizona Office of Tourism, commented, “The app helps us get wiser, too. We are able to see where visitors spend their time and what their interests are. In a way, the app is the logical endpoint of the connections we make between marketing and research, always with the doublebarrel goal of creating a more personalised consumer experience, while also gaining a better understanding of our target audience.”
3 FEBRUARY 2018
ASIA PACIFIC
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
INTERNATIONAL
Chinese Premier Aussie Specialists Appointed
Tourism Australia Sponsors Youth Conference
T
W
ourism Australia recently held an awards ceremony to welcome and congratulate 89 new Premier Aussie Specialists from across China. The top tier agents are hailed as having an in depth understanding of Australia's tourism product and as being amongst the top travel sellers in the country. Aussie Specialists is Tourism Australia’s global training programme. It is shared by all eight states and territory tourism partners, and is designed to provide frontline travel sellers from around the globe with the knowledge and skills to best sell the country. Tourism Australia recently revamped
the programme in all key markets across 11 languages, including a new digital platform.
Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia
Asia’s Mountain Tourism to Attract Millennials
YSE Travel Confederation has announced Tourism Australia as the sponsor of the this year’s WYSE Exchange Australia Youth Tourism Conference taking place in Sydney on May 09. The full-day, national educational conference will showcase a range of speakers, leaders and innovators who will come together and share insights, and identify opportunities to grow the country's inbound youth travel industry. Kristy Carstairs, industry relations manager for youth, Tourism Australia, commented, “We look forward to using this forum with the industry to find inspiring ways to encourage more young travellers [...] to visit Australia.” The Conference is part of a three-day trade event that will include business-to-business appointments.
Thailand Showcases Local Culinary Experiences at ATF
M
ountaineering creates opportunities for the development of the tourism industry in Asia’s mountainous regions, especially among younger visitors, according to GlobalData. Transformative travel grew rapidly in 2017, as a result of increased awareness about the negative impact of human activities on the environment. GlobalData’s consumer survey from the last quarter 2017 showed that 20 percent globally are interested in adventure/sports tourism, with 34 percent of millennials being likely to book such a holiday.
Blackitch Artisan Kitchen
Travel Trade Event for Tasmania
T
ourism Tasmania is holding its new two-day trade event, TasTalk, in Hobart in late June, combining the previous Tasbound and Tassie Specialist Conference events to create a broader and more dynamic travel trade gathering. It will see around 120 travel sellers travelling to Hobart to learn more about what are hailed as the best Tasmanian tourism products and experiences on offer. Tourism Tasmania and Australia Tourism Export Council will host up to 40 inbound tour operators on the first day, June 28, while on the following day, around 80 Tassie specialist travel sellers from around the country and New Zealand are anticipated to attend.
3 FEBRUARY 2018
A
SEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in Chiang Mai from January 22 – 26 saw Thailand welcome participants under the theme of Sustainable Connectivity, Boundless Prosperity. Yuthasak Supasorn, governor, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said TAT would have a dedicated area called Thailand Prestige highlighting local experiences through the country’s rich culinary tradition, in line with its marketing focus on the gastronomy tourism sector. Highlights included an interactive cooking demonstration by celebrity chefs from Chiang Mai. “Thai food continues to gain worldwide acclaim and is a major attraction for the millions of tourists who visit Thailand every year,” said Supasorn.
15
RENDEZVOUS
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
KEMAL BAYIK, DIRECTOR,MARKETING,FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA, EXPRESSES THE HOTEL’S EXPANSION PLANS TO SUIT THE NEW WAVE OF CORPORATE TRAVELLERS SEEKING EXCEPTIONAL SERVICES AND FACILITIES
Q&A with Kemal Bayik DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How was 2017 in terms of business, and how does this compare to previous years? Who is your main source market? KEMAL BAYIK: Despite certain regional challenges, we consider 2017 as a year of success for Four Seasons Doha. Weak oil prices and the political differences between GCC countries were the two highlights of the year for the market. For us the main accomplishments were the overwhelming demand from the local market and new emerging markets by the help of visa-free access. Compared to previous years, there was a dose of uncertainty that lead to further price sensitivity. However, in terms of volume, the uplift in domestic market and emergence of new markets mitigated the loss coming from reduced price points. Tourism authorities continue to focus on diversifying the tourism influx, with the latest and most significant action being flexing the visa process and waving visa requirements for over 80 nationalities, converting Qatar into the most open country in the GCC.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Qatar Tourism Authority aims to triple the number of business event tourists by 2030, contributing at least half of the country’s revenue from tourism spending. In your opinion what is it that makes Qatar stand out as a MICE destination? KEMAL BAYIK: Doha is dynamic and purpose built
to become an international metropolitan. The flights, airport, hotels, convention space choices, shopping and dining districts, recreational activity zones and entertainment options are all world-class and magnetic. Doha also has great weather for over 200 days a year. The city offers everything a remarkable city and charming resort destination can offer. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What kind of facilities and services do you offer to cater for MICE clients? KEMAL BAYIK: We are very versatile and flexible in terms of our offerings in the upscale and luxury segment. Features wise, Four Seasons is an ideal MICE hotel with 232 rooms and suites, a world-class ballroom, with a second one being built to better answer demand. We also have five meeting rooms, 10 food and beverage venues, a great spa, outdoor swimming pool, private beach and private marina. Services wise, imagination is our limits. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are your future plans which aim to further boost the MICE sector in the country, and attract more corporate travellers from regional and international markets?
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How important is the MICE sector to your business and to the ongoing success and ambitious targets of Qatar’s tourism industry?
KEMAL BAYIK: Our job, as Four Seasons, is always to become the ambassadors of our destinations. We will continue to invest in direct sales, consumer marketing and PR efforts, to drive more interest for MICE business from emerging and key feeder markets. We know that for almost every decision maker that visited us thus far, we have had the privilege of hosting one of their programmes.
KEMAL BAYIK: MICE business is extremely important for all hotels in Doha. For our hotel, the MICE segment represents a significant portion of our top-line performance; almost 20 percent of our rooms and 15 percent of our banqueting revenues. Four Seasons Hotel Doha
16
3 FEBRUARY 2018
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
ASIA PACIFIC
Taipei Sky Tower to Encompass Park Hyatt and Andaz Hotel
Curio Collection Enters Australia
A
T
aipei Sky Tower is to house two hotels and an experiential retail podium once complete in 2020. Both hotels will be a collaboration with Hyatt International luxury brands, Park Hyatt and Andaz. It will be the first time a Park Hyatt and Andaz will be developed within one tower. At a press conference on January 23, David Udell, president, Asia Pacific, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, shared the concept of integrating two distinctively different hotel brands into the same building. Symbolising a bamboo shoot and Roman column, the 54-level building combines Eastern and Western elements with a pleated façade that will be accentuated in green.
INTERNATIONAL
An artist’s impression of Taipei Sky Tower
ustralia’s first Curio Collection by Hilton, West Hotel Sydney has debuted in the city's central business district next to Barangaroo precinct. The hotel will be managed by Hilton, under a management agreement with M&L Hospitality. The botanical-themed property features 182 guest rooms, including four spacious suites. The hotel also features a fully equipped gym, private meeting and dining room. Contributing to Sydney’s dining scene is the on-property restaurant Solander Dining and Bar, offering a modern Australian all-day dining experience, with a focus on seasonal and botanical produce.
W Hotels Enters Japan
ONYX to Introduce Shama Lakeview Asoke Bangkok
W
O
Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International, announced the signing of W Osaka, slated to open in 2021. Owned by Sekisui House, a long-standing partner of Marriott International, this opening will be the first-ever W property in Japan. The 27-floor, newly-built hotel will boast the renowned bold W design in each of its 337 guest rooms and suites, restaurants and cocktailcentric bars. W Osaka will feature multiple dining and craft cocktail concepts including the WOO Bar and a second bar located on the WET Deck swimming pool. The hotel will also showcase a state-of-the-art fitness centre, FIT, an AWAY Spa, as well as event facilities such as the 400 m2 Great Room and three meeting rooms.
3 FEBRUARY 2018
NYX Hospitality Group and JR Kyushu Business Development, Thailand, an affiliate of Kyushu railway company, JR Kyushu, have entered a partnership for Shama Lakeview Asoke, a 429-key serviced apartments complex in Asoke. Following JR Kyushu’s purchase of the existing serviced apartment property in December
2017, the company appointed ONYX as the hotel management service provider. The launch is scheduled for April 01, and it will offer a wide range of accommodation options from studio suites to three-bedroom apartments, an allday dining restaurant, pool deck, golf practice range, fitness centre, children’s playroom and a meeting room.
Best Western to Land at New Chitose Airport
B
est Western Hotels & Resorts will arrive at one of Japan’s busiest airports this year, with the launch of a brand new upper-midscale hotel. Scheduled to welcome its first guests in May, Best Western Plus Hotel Fino Chitose is situated just 3.2 km from New Chitose Airport, the main domestic and international gateway to the island of Hokkaido. Best Western Plus Hotel Fino Chitose will feature a total of 154 guest rooms, including a selection of Japanese-style family rooms for up to four guests. All rooms come equipped with modern facilities including flat-screen TVs, kettles and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel will also feature a 24-hour front desk and daily housekeeping and laundry.
17
TRAVEL CHANNELS From left: Rashid Al Kous, executive director, EPA handing and Abdul Rahman Bin Nasser Al Assem, general manager, cultural affairs, Saudi Arabia
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Emirati Heritage Celebrated at Qasr Al Muwaiji
KwB Raises Funds for TBHF
Qasr Al Muwaiji, the birthplace of H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, president, UAE, played host to a series of cultural experiences in celebration of Emirati heritage and Al Ain's contemporary landscape. The monthly Royal Bisht workshops and renowned poetry evenings returned on January 18, as part of Abu Dhabi’s annual Al Ain Cultural Programme. Providing insight, the Royal Bisht workshop explored bishts specifically hand-tailored for Emirati rulers and adorned with various patterns of gold or silver thread. Participants also had the opportunity to try their hand at sewing while taking inspiration from the Al Nahyan family’s bishts currently on display at Qasr Al Muwaiji. In celebration of Nabati poetry, visitors also took part in educational sessions celebrating the nation’s poets, writers and traditional skills.
Coffee and Book
Linking Saudi and Emirati Publishing
Sharjah-based cultural initiatives Knowledge without Borders (KwB) recently organised a fundraising event for The Big Heart Foundation, a Sharjah-based global humanitarian charity. The Coffee and Book event featured a coffee booth and a selection of reading materials provided by KwB, catering to people of all ages and sectors of the community. Visitors were encouraged to support humanitarian activities and show their commitment to contributing to those less fortunate. In addition to emphasising the importance of social responsibility, KwB also made efforts to promote reading. This was KwB’s first activity in UAE’s Year of Zayed, and the initiative said there will be a series of other cultural and humanitarian events underscoring the values reinforced by late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founder, UAE.
Representatives of the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) and Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture and Information recently met in Riyadh to explore ways to enhance cultural cooperation and intellectual exchange towards enriching their publishing movements. Charting the growth of the local publishing sector over the past two years, the EPA delegation explained that Emirati publishing houses have increased their production and outreach significantly in both regional and global markets, in particular, the Middle East and North Africa, Europe and Latin America. The need to launch joint cultural programmes highlighting the rich cultural fabric and heritage of the UAE and Saudi Arabia was discussed, along with strengthening bonds of friendship though events celebrating each other’s traditions. The EPA also shared their preparations for the March 14 – 24 Riyadh International Book Fair.
Royal Bisht workshop
18
3 FEBRUARY 2018
PHOTO ALBUM
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. Dubai Outlet Mall created a visual feast for visitors with Kite Fiesta 2018 on February 02, including displays by flying teams from India and a kids' kite making workshop
Qatar Airways extended its partnership with the ABB Formula E Championship
H.E. Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, CEO, BTEA, inaugurated Bahrains 29th edition of the Autumn Fair, bringing together numerous suppliers, retailers and consumers
3 FEBRUARY 2018
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
Park Inn by Radisson Muscat has named Omani nationals Majid Al Balush and Hassan Al Wahaibi Employees of the Year
Emirates and Dubai Miracle Garden have created the world's largest floral installation in the shape of an Emirates Airbus A380
19
NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS ITB-BERLIN Berlin, Germany March 07 – 11 www.itb-berlin.de/en Hailed as a leading travel trade show, ITB Berlin is the foremost business platform for global touristic offers.
www.traveltradeweekly.travel
Desert Drivers and Dune Dashers at SSDF
A
l Badayer Desert hosted the second edition of Sharjah Sports Desert Festival (SSDF), on January 12 under the theme, Become a Desert Hero. The event was hailed to be the emirate’s most popular off-road competition, held under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, deputy ruler, Sharjah. Prior to the competitions, visitors had a chance to enjoy a taste of what’s to come as the riders and
drivers took part in 30-minute warm-up sessions to get their engines up to speed. Other events included buggy races, followed by the MX1 and MX2 and all-terrain vehicle races. Among the big international names that participated at SSDF were Michael Docherty, Aaron Mare, Ryan Blair, Brit Daniel Hutchinson, Mohammed Jaffar, Abdullah Al Shatti and Sultan Al Balooshi.
SSDF
ATM Dubai, UAE April 22 – 25 arabiantravelmarket.wtm.com B2B exhibition showcasing over 2,800 products and destinations from around the world to over 28,000 travel trade visitors.
IMEX Frankfurt, Germany May 15 –17 www.imex-frankfurt.com IMEX opens its doors to 5,200 global decision makers with qualified buying power, including the valuable German outbound market.
ILTM- ASIA SPECEFIC Singapore May 21 – 24 www.iltm.com/asiapacific Targeting the Asia outbound market, ILTM Asia Pacific will bring international suppliers face-to-face with the very best regional buyers and key international agents.
20
SCTH to Open Roads of Arabia Exhibition in Tokyo
S
audi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) launched the Roads of Arabia exhibition, which opened on January 29, at the National Museum in Tokyo, Japan. H.R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul-Aziz, president, SCTH, followed up on the preparations for the event, which is one of the most important activities organised by Saudi Arabia in Japan in cooperation with the country’s Embassy in Tokyo, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and Information, and Saudi Aramco as the exhibition's sponsor. In this important international exhibition, a collection of rare artifacts representing the cultural dimension of Saudi Arabia were on display. They demonstrated the cultural and historical heritage and the civilisational exchange witnessed by its land through different historical periods.
Global Futurist Leads Agenda for IBTM Arabia
I
BTM has unveiled the final itinerary for IBTM Arabia this year, which will take place on February 05 – 07 at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi. Leading the agenda as keynote speaker is Rohit Talwar, global futurist, Fast Future, who will deliver a session on how the meetings industry can anticipate, respond to and benefit from an emerging future in a world of constant change. During the event, suppliers and hosted buyers can expect to enjoy a full programme of 2,700 pre-planned business meetings, an insightful series of Knowledge Programme sessions and 12 networking events. The format of IBTM Arabia has been designed purposefully to embrace the importance in the region of relationship building ahead of doing business, with 12 networking events held over the three-day-long show.
Etihad Towers
3 FEBRUARY 2018