25 JULY 2015
ISSUE 298
RIYADH AIRPORT TO GET RETOUCHED THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF COSMETIC SURGERY HOSPITAL REVEALED THAT TRAVELLERS ARE FLOCKING TO THE UAE FOR COSMETIC SURGERY, FOLLOWING VARIOUS DUBAI HEALTH AUTHORITY INITIATIVES.
04 FIRST-EVER MARRIOTT HOTEL LAUNCHES IN MECCA
11 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE
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PERFORMANCE
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ACCOMMODATION
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AIR
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INTERNATIONAL
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RENDEZVOUS
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WHO'S MOVED
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TRAVEL TALK
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AGENT CORNER
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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PHOTO ALBUM
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NEWS & EVENTS
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MEDICAL TOURISM ON THE RISE IN THE UAE
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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
Jazeera Airways: 11 Percent Rise in Passenger Numbers Following consecutive increases in March and April, Jazeera Airways recorded an 11 percent surge in flown customers in May.
ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba
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CONTRIBUTORS Ana Mladenovic Dominique Christou
n routes serving Istanbul, Beirut and Amman, the Kuwaiti airline registered a 12 percent growth. Figures on services to Egypt also jumped 16 percent despite the fact that the low-cost carrier now flies to five destinations in the North African country due to the temporary closure of Assiut International Airport for renovations. Demand also continued to increase for Gulf destinations, including Dubai, Bahrain, Jeddah and Riyadh, leading to a seven percent hike in figures.
PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian Inna Armeanu DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA EXCHANGE RATES As of
24/7/2015
Sabre Officially Acquires Abacus International Sabre has completed the acquisition of Abacus International, one of the leading global distribution systems in Asia Pacific.
Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar
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COUNTRY
CURRENCY 1USD=
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.39
Qatar (QAR)
Rial
3.64
Saudi Arabia (SAR) Riyal
3.75
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
99.47
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.83
Iran (IRR)
Rial
29,564.84
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,191.41
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,508.07
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.37
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.81
Syria (SYP)
Pound
188.82
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.97
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.89
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abre, which previously had a 35 percent ownership in the company, has now purchased the remaining portion of it for a net cash consideration of USD411 million. The company serves more than 100,000 travel agents across the Asia Pacific region’s 59 markets and has both global and uniquely local relationships with airlines and hotels, including the leading portfolio of low-cost airline and Chinese airline content. The acquisition also includes new long-term distribution agreements between Sabre and the 11 Asian airlines that previously shared ownership of Abacus International. 25 JULY 2015
HOTEL PERFORMANCE WEEKLY NEWS Summer Slowdown in Doha and Manama
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oha hotels felt the effects of the summer season early, as performance levels dropped during May with a 1.3 percentage point reduction in occupancy to 74.9 percent and a 2.8 percent fall in ARR to USD210.27. The softer rooms performance saw a 4.4 percent decline in RevPAR, however stronger food and beverage demand resulted in a 4.9 percent growth in total RevPAR to USD408.85. Although operating expenses were higher during the month, the increase in overall revenues was sufficient enough to ensure the GOPPAR swell of 1.8 percent to USD181.52. The four- and five-star hotel market in Manama also experienced an early onset of summer as properties recorded a recession in all performance indicators in May. RevPAR was down by 13.1 percent during the month due to a 3.7 percentage point fall in occupancy to 49.6 percent and a 6.6 percent drop in ARR to USD179.07 compared to the same period in 2014. Lower overall revenues were compounded by higher operating expenses and this had a significant impact on hotel profits, which plunged by 19.5 percent to USD53.70.
While hotels in Kuwait seem to be doing great, thus defying the overall image in the region, four- and five-star properties in Jeddah, Dubai, Doha and Manama were strongly affected by the start of the summer season as well as the combined effect of the falling Euro and the stronger US Dollar. HotStats’ data gives a detailed analysis of what happened in May across the MENA region’s hospitality industry.
Kuwait Hotels Beat the Regional Trend
Profits in Jeddah and Dubai Decline
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he combined effect of the falling Euro and stronger US Dollar continued to be the key challenge facing Dubai’s hotels. ARR plummeted 10.8 percent to USD271.64 during May, resulting in an 8.7 percent reduction in RevPAR. Although occupancy levels remained strong at 83.8 percent, up 1.9 percentage points year-on-year, the ARR downturn drove the emirate’s four- and five-star hotels to witness softer food and beverage demand, impacting total RevPAR and GOPPAR which fell by 11.7 percent and 14.5 percent respectively. Upperscale properties in Jeddah also saw occupancy levels decline by six percentage points in May to 75 percent, forcing hoteliers to reduce room rates in order to maintain market share. With ARR dropping 10.6 percent to USD258.19, RevPAR plunged 17.2 percent to USD193.74.
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ccommodation units in Kuwait reversed the regional scenario of falling performance levels with growth in all key indicators, driven by stronger demand and higher room rates. A 3.6 percentage point surge in occupancy to 55.9 percent allowed hoteliers to yield a 3.4 percent increase in average room rate (ARR), resulting in a 10.5 percent climb in RevPAR to USD148.72. However, softer food and beverage demand limited the overall revenue growth and total RevPAR rose by 6.1 percent to USD334.06. Marginally lower operating and payroll expenses helped drive an 8.7 percent boost in profits with a gross operating profit per available room (GOPPAR) of USD161.82.
25 JULY 2015
Dubai
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WEEKLY NEWS AIRPORTS
Riyadh Airport to Get Retouched
USD1.2 Billion Medina Airport Opens
German global construction group HOCHTIEF is to upgrade and expand King Khaled International Airport in Riyadh, following a EUR1.3 billion (USD1.44 billion) agreement signed with the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).
King Khaled International Airport expansion
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OCHTIEF will redesign, improve and enlarge two existing terminals, and demolish and refurbish other parts of the airport. With construction having already started and completion planned for May 2019, the project is the first part of GACA’s extensive programme to develop and expand the airfield’s facilities at an expected cost of EUR4 billion (USD4.44 billion). Icon TTG Half Page AD 155x220.pdf
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edina’s Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport has been officially launched with an initial capacity of eight million annual passengers, which will increase to 18 million and over 40 million travellers per year in phase two and three. The USD1.2 billion airfield’s main building spans 155,000m2 and has 72 check-in counters, plus 26 passport control counters. The four million square metre project boasts six external terminals with a total seating capacity of 4,000, and is the first of a series of new airports that we will open across the Kingdom in an effort to build a sustainable and profitable modern airport system, and boost non-oil revenues, H.E. Sulaiman AlHamdan, president, General Authority of Civil Aviation, Saudi Arabia, explained.
10:25 AM
INTERCONTINENTAL MUSCAT
CROWNE PLAZA DUQM
A 35-acre oasis nestled between the majestic Hajjar Mountains and Indian Ocean and ideally located in the heart of the city. The hotel’s Palm Beach Club offers 900 square metres of rest and relaxation, an Olympic pool and beautifully landscaped gardens leading to the beach.
600kms from Muscat, the hotel offers expansive views of the Al Wusta Region’s coastline with its 213 Rooms, Frontier Pub and Sports Bar, Al Safi Restaurant and SOUQ our all-day dining Restaurant.
CROWNE PLAZA MUSCAT
CROWNE PLAZA SALALAH
Set in 10 acres of lush landscaped gardens within the prestigious "Qurum Heights" area of Muscat the hotel's Cliff Club offers the latest in leisure facilities. You will be able to unwind and reward yourself after a day at the office or simply lounge at the pool or private beach and completely rejuvenate yourself.
Situated in 45 acres of lush tropical garden, overlooking the Arabian Sea and on a long stretch of pristine white sandy beach. The Resort enjoys an ideal location for Business Travellers, Meetings and Events and for Families.
CROWNE PLAZA SOHAR
HOLIDAY INN MUSCAT AL SEEB
With 126 rooms and suites, and situated 9kms from Sohar's Economic Zone, Industrial Estate and Port. Whether it is for business or leisure, we are your definite partner for accommodation and events in Sohar.
One of the city’s newest hotels with 187 guest rooms including 11 apartments; this modern hotel is conveniently located approximately 8kms from Muscat Airport; its close to the city’s main shopping and historical sites and business hub.
For more information, please call the hotels directly on the following numbers: InterContinental Muscat +968 2468 0000. Crowne Plaza Muscat +968 2466 0660. Crowne Plaza Sohar +968 2685 0850. Crowne Plaza Salalah +968 2323 8000. Crowne Plaza Duqm +968 2521 4444. Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb +968 9444 9606.
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25 JULY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS TECHNOLOGY XX
Amadeus to Add 46 Norwegian Airports to its Portfolio Avinor, operator of 46 airports in Norway, has signed an agreement with Amadeus to adopt its cloud-based Airport Common Use Service (ACUS) platform.
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CUS is a next-generation common use solution which enables passenger processing systems to be accessed and deployed anywhere on demand, both in and outside the terminal. ACUS can be used from a PC, laptop or mobile device, making it especially useful to process passengers during disruptions. The move is expected to offer cost-effective, customised and flexible passenger processing to Avinor’s airports nationwide. The company will initially implement ACUS in eight of its airports, eventually extending it to a total of 46.
Sabre Launches Branded Fares
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abre has introduced an enhanced Sabre Branded Fares solution to help airlines merchandise their products to travellers. The new solution allows carriers to utilise Airline Tariff Publishing Company industry technology standards to distribute their fares to more than 425,000 agents and online travel agencies via the company’s travel marketplace. They can also differentiate their branded fares in the Sabre global distribution system with each fare offering its own unique package of services and ancillary products such as checked bags, advance seating and premium check-in.
Travelport Smartpoint 6.0 Released
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ravelport has further developed its innovative point of sale product for corporate and leisure travel agencies. The latest release of Travelport Smartpoint 6.0 provides travel consultants with further capabilities to advise their customers about the entire range of products, optional services and offers available from airlines, with fully-interactive graphical screen displays and real-time booking. Using the latest iteration of the product, travel agents can access the airline’s branded fares and ancillaries at the availability, fare quote and fare shop stages of the booking process, providing a new level of product insight and information.
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25 JULY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS Airports Show Devotion to the Environment
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irports Council International (ACI) released the annual results for the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme covering the oneyear period up to the end of June. Data showed that the Airport Carbon Accredited status has been earned by a total of 125 hubs in over 40 countries across the world, a year-on-year increase of over 22 percent. “In the past year, these airports have succeeded in reducing the CO2 emissions under their direct control by 212,460 tonnes of CO2. That is equivalent to the annual CO2 sequestered by 605ha of forest,” explained Angela Gittens, director general, ACI World.
Abu Dhabi: Renewed Commitment to Environmental Stewardship In recognition of its efforts to manage carbon dioxide emissions, Abu Dhabi International Airport has earned the accreditation level of mapping from Airports Council International’s Airport Carbon Accreditation for the third time.
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he hub initiated its latest application to the programme by mapping emissions sources within the direct operational boundaries of the airfield. “Environmental impact is directly linked to the operational efficiency of Abu Dhabi International Airport, and we are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to have a positive effect on the local and global environment, whilst operating more effectively,” stressed Ahmad Al Haddabi, chief operations officer, Abu Dhabi Airports.
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25 JULY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS dnata Gears Up for Busy Weeks
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Abra Water Hopping Service
Dubai delegation at The Meetings Show
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his summer is expected to be a record-breaking season for Dubai International and the dnata team in Dubai is prepared to deliver a smooth journey for everyone travelling through the hub. During the season, dnata expects to handle over 50,000 flights, 20 million passengers and 30 million bags from around the world. Each member of the team has a role they need to execute with extreme precision to guarantee that the aircraft is ready for its following journey and next group of passengers, baggage and cargo. “Our goal is to ensure our customer airlines and their passengers enjoy a smooth travel experience, regardless of season,” said Jon Conway, divisional senior vice president, UAE airport operations, dnata.
Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Creek
Dubai: One Million UK Visitors by 2016
ubai’s popularity among UK business and leisure travellers is growing at a 10 percent annual rate meaning that over one million visitors are expected in 2016. Based on data released by Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing, in 2014, some 845,000 UK hotel guests were registered, making the country the emirate’s top European source market and third internationally after Saudi Arabia and India, as Steen Jakobsen, director, Dubai Business Events, pinpointed, at the recently held The Meetings Show in London.
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ubai World Central (DWC)’s Business Park Free Zone concluded a series of meetings with selected firms in Beijing, Chengdu and Taiyuan, as part of its sustained drive to attract foreign investment. The objective of the tour was to demonstrate the exciting value proposition the facility holds for Chinese businesses, as Paolo Serra, vice president, Business Park, DWC, said. He added, “During this visit, we chose to focus on meetings with specific companies from China’s perishables, logistics and general trading sectors, who are also looking to expand their operations in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia region.”
25 JULY 2015
The DWC delegation with a Chinese associate
DWC Targets Chinese Companies
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WEEKLY NEWS
MEDICAL TOURISM ON THE RISE IN THE UAE The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Hospital (AACSH) revealed that travellers are flocking to the UAE for cosmetic surgery, following various Dubai Health Authority initiatives including the Be Beautiful in Dubai.
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Arab Tourism to Egypt on the Rise
Matteo Vigo
f patients visiting the hospital during summer, 27 percent travel from outside the GCC and MENA, and another 35 percent from within the Middle East. “Summertime is a hugely popular time for our patients to undergo cosmetic procedures […]. People have more leisure time during the summer, and therefore more time to travel, hence why they prefer to undergo major cosmetic procedures during this time,” said Matteo Vigo, chief medical officer, AACSH.
UAE Aviation Set for Development
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gypt reported year-on-year improvements in arrivals with visitor numbers in May showing a 16.5 percent growth and with figures from Arab countries indicating a 23.1 percent surge over 2014. The positive statistics underscore the results of recently launched campaigns that aim to attract more visitors to the country with the Masr Qariba, meaning ’Egypt is Close’, initiative specially targeting guests from Saudi Arabia, UAE and Kuwait. During the first five months of the year, figures from the UAE soared 48.3 percent, from Saudi Arabia 67.2 percent and from Kuwait 48.6 percent.
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he UAE aviation sector continued to record impressive growth rates in the first quarter of the year. H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, suggested that the sector’s importance will only increase in the run up to Expo 2020 as industry-related developments take shape. “We are developing Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central into the world’s biggest airport with an annual capacity of over 220 million passengers. Alongside, we continue to develop Dubai International which will handle 100 million passengers when the expansion plans get over. Emirates and flydubai have remained in expansion mode,” he said.
25 JULY 2015
WEEKLY NEWS
First-ever Marriott Hotel Launches in Mecca Marriott International opened Makkah Marriott Hotel, the flagship brand’s first project in the Holy City.
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he arabesque-themed 426-room property sits on the hill atop of Mecca and according to Alex Kyriakidis, president, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International, is part of the company’s commitment to fill a growing gap in the religious tourism sector in the region. The hotel also lives up to the brand’s goal of reimagining the future of travel for the next generation of travellers who blend work and play, demand style and substance, and require technology to stay connected.
Makkah Marriott Hotel
Mövenpick Strengthens Presence in Jeddah
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övenpick Hotels & Resorts is consolidating its Saudi Arabia expansion plans by adding a fourth property in Jeddah. Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2019, the 300key Mövenpick Hotel Heraa Jeddah will take the company’s Saudi offering to 14 projects. “The hotel is just five minutes from Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport, which is currently undergoing a USD7.2 billion expansion to take its ultimate capacity to 80 million passengers annually,” said Andreas Mattmüller, chief operating officer, Middle East and Asia, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, adding that this will make Mövenpick Hotel Heraa Jeddah the first point of call for travellers stopping in the city, en route to Mecca and Medina.
25 JULY 2015
Jumeirah Group Partners with Royal Albert Hall
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umeirah Group has entered into an exclusive two-year partnership with Royal Albert Hall, with Jumeirah Carlton Tower being named as the venue’s preferred five-star hotel partner. The collaboration will run until 2017, providing Jumeirah Group’s guests in London with exclusive access to an exciting roaster of internationally-renowned performances. The five-star Jumeirah Carlton Tower, located just off Sloane Street in the heart of Knightsbridge, London, is within walking distance of Royal Albert Hall, and provides the ultimate luxury and comfort, offering 216 guest rooms, including 58 suites.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah Launches O2 Spa
Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers Gets Green Certification ow. .
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2 Spa, hailed as India’s largest spa chain with 55 outlets under the franchise, was launched at Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah. The spa has initially opened with six treatment rooms and is due to expand further to include beach cabanas for outdoor treatments, yoga classes and more. Khamis Kazzaz, general manager, Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah, commented, ”The O2 Spa will attract leisure guests staying at the resort as well as local residents, and we are confident that it will be a welcome addition to the variety of services we offer.” Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers
O2 Spa at Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah
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övenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers has been awarded with the Green Globe certification after achieving a compliance score of 72 percent against the accredited criteria. As Hayden Edgtton, general manager, Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers, noted, the recognition comes just a year after the property’s opening. One of the Dubai-based hotel’s key initiatives is the newly introduced eco-friendly meeting plans that take full advantage of the facility’s favourable location and promote offerings that help preserve the environment.
New lti Hotel in Tunisia
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erman tourism group, DER Touristik is to open the four-star lti Djerba Plaza Thalasso & Spa this winter. The Tunisian property features 299 rooms spread over two floors, and offers several swimming pools, six tennis courts, a squash court, as well as a separate spa sector. Jan Frankenberg, vice president, product and contracting, short- and long-haul, DER Touristik Köln, commented that the company was very satisfied with the bookings for Tunisia in 2014 as they touched pre-2011 levels. He added that a trend in the country is water parks which are becoming very popular and more and more hotels have their own water attractions.
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25 JULY 2015
AIR WEEKLY NEWS
Qatar Airways Flies to Zanzibar
Celebrations in Zanzibar
Zanzibar became Qatar Airways’ second new destination of the year, extending the airline’s reach in Tanzania to three destinations.
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he Doha-based carrier now operates five weekly services to Zanzibar via Kilimanjaro, and commencing October 1, it will add an extra two weekly frequencies, making it a daily operation. Passengers will be able to travel nonstop to the island three times a week and on a linked operation via Kilimanjaro four times per week. “Zanzibar’s attraction as a tourist destination has been steadily growing,” noted Marwan Koleilat, chief commercial officer, Qatar Airways, pinpointing that the route marks the carrier’s 20th gateway in Africa.
RJ Adds Tabuk to Network
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oyal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) has commenced services between Amman and Tabuk, initially operating twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Subject to demand, frequency might increase in the near future. The additional route brings the number of destinations served by RJ in Saudi Arabia to five and the weekly services between the countries to around 60. According to Haitham Misto, CEO, RJ, the introduction of Tabuk to the route map forms part of the company’s new strategy which focusses at this phase on boosting operations in the Middle East and the Arabian Gulf by adding new destinations and extra frequencies.
Etihad Airways and Hong Kong Airlines Enhance Codeshare Deal
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tihad Airways has expanded its codeshare agreement with Hong Kong Airlines. Under the partnership, the Asian carrier will place its code on Etihad Airways’ flights between Hong Kong and Abu Dhabi, and will codeshare on the UAE airline’s new service between Abu Dhabi and Madrid. Kevin Knight, chief strategy and planning officer, Etihad Airways, said, “The expanded codeshare will [...] unleash the true benefits of the partnership by offering business and leisure travellers enhanced connections and a more frequent service between Asia, the Middle East and Europe.”
25 JULY 2015
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR kn Did you
Mashhad, Iran
Emirates to Launch Services to Mashhad
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mirates announced plans to launch a new service to Mashhad in Iran from September 1, with five weekly flights with an Airbus A330-200 aircraft. Timings have been scheduled to facilitate convenient onward connections via Dubai. “Mashhad’s addition to our global network will enable us to provide flexibility and choice for customers creating new inbound and outbound markets for tourism. We look forward to boosting traffic in and out of Mashhad and drawing in visitors from a host of points across our global network [...], commented Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, divisional senior vice president, commercial operations, Centre, Emirates.
Qatar Airways Boosts Manila Services
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tarting October 26, Qatar Airways will add six extra flights per week between Doha and Manila following an expanded air service agreement between Qatar and the Philippines. With the boost, the airline will operate a twice-daily service to the Asian city, in addition to its daily flights between Clark International Airport and Doha. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “The increase in flight frequencies […] serves to further strengthen commercial and trade links between our two countries and we are delighted to be able to provide our Philippines-based passengers with greater connectivity options when they choose to fly with Qatar Airways.”
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Air Arabia Adds 13th Saudi Destination
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ir Arabia has launched threeweekly services to Tabuk, its 13th gateway in Saudi Arabia and 114th globally. The low-cost carrier will fly to the northwestern city on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, reaffirming the significance the company attaches to the Kingdom as Adel Ali, group CEO, Air Arabia, noted. “Going forward, our business focus for Saudi Arabia will remain to be present where our customers want us to be and continue to offer enormous choice for customers seeking to travel from the Kingdom to the UAE and beyond,” added Ali.
Turkish Airlines Opens Arabic Call Centre
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urkish Airlines launched an Arabic call centre to serve customers across the Middle East. Mazen Disi, general manager, Jordan, Turkish Airlines, said, “The Arabic call centre, which is based
in Turkey and manned by around 50 customer service representatives, will not only serve queries and complaints, but also assist passengers in booking tickets and providing information about the Miles&Smiles frequent flyer programme.”
25 JULY 2015
AIR WEEKLY NEWS Emirates Boosts US Presence
RJ Now Serves Najaf
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oyal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) operated its first flight to Najaf on July 13, marking the launch of a new twice-weekly service between Jordan and Iraq. With this addition to the RJ network, the number of Iraqi destinations served by the airline increased to six. Moreover, the number of weekly flights between the countries rose to 31, including 12 frequencies to Baghdad, nine to Erbil and four to each of Basra and Sulaymaniyah, in addition to the two halted flights to Mosul. The carrier operates to Najaf on Mondays and Thursdays.
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mirates has introduced a second daily flight between Dubai and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, providing passengers with the convenience of both morning and evening departures from both destinations. According to Hubert Frach, divisional senior vice president, commercial operations, Emirates, the launch of the double-daily frequency comes in response to strong demand for more services from the US gateway. “Corporate travellers will also appreciate the ease of conducting business as a result of the improved connectivity between Seattle and a number of international destinations,” added Frach.
New Link to Khartoum from Abu Dhabi
25 JULY 2015
Sudan Airways lands in Abu Dhabi
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udan Airways has launched three-weekly services between Abu Dhabi and Khartoum International Airport in Sudan. According to Ahmad Al Haddabi, chief operations officer, Abu Dhabi Airports, the route will provide a vital connection between the capitals and will allow for increased connectivity between two important regions. Commenting on the flights, which will be operated on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, Osama Yousif, regional manager, Gulf, Sudan Airways, added, “Abu Dhabi International Airport is an increasingly desirable destination for travellers from Africa, as well as being the gateway to many other destinations.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR EGYPTAIR Resumes Flights to Manchester
Erbil Welcomes Emirates Flights
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mirates has resumed flights to Erbil, with four weekly services on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, divisional senior vice president, commercial operations, Emirates, said, “We have been closely observing the situation in northern Iraq and upon a comprehensive review of our operations as well as a detailed risk assessment […], we decided to recommence our services to Erbil.” He added that as a precautionary measure, the airline is redirecting its route path to and from the Iraqi city, resulting in longer flight times, however, passenger, crew and aircraft safety is being taken extremely seriously.
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Qatar Executive Expands Fleet
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GYPTAIR announced the resumption of its nonstop operations to Manchester, with four weekly services on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Hisham El Nahas, CEO, EGYPTAIR, said, “EGYPTAIR has reoffered the operation between Cairo and Manchester to provide its customers with optimum connection between our African destinations and one of the major destinations in the UK through [our] Cairo hub.” The airline is operating the flights on a Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
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atar Executive is rapidly developing and expanding its aircraft management business from Doha. In response to strong demand from Qatari customers who own private aircraft, Qatar Executive has seen a substantial growth in aircraft management agreements, and it has also added three owned jets to its fleet over the past 18 months. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “Apart from our successful charter business, we are now extremely pleased to be able to offer aircraft management services to our elite clientele and are seeing substantial market potential for this attractive new business aviation product.”
Etihad Airways’ Boeing 787 Dreamliner to Zürich
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tihad Airways introduced its new Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the Abu Dhabi – Zürich route, offering the airline’s First Suites, Business Studios and Economy Smart
Seats. To mark the occasion, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the departure gate attended by Peter Baumgartner, chief commercial officer, Etihad Airways, and Stefan Conrad, chief operating officer, Zürich Airport. “Switzerland is one of the most important aviation markets for Etihad Airways and it is significant that we are deploying our state-of-the-art, new B787 Dreamliner on the Zürich route,” said Baumgartner.
Peter Baumgartner (second from left) and Stefan Conrad (second from right)
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25 JULY 2015
INTERNATIONAL WEEKLY NEWS
MANATHAI Opens Boutique Resort in Koh Samui
Aloft Hotels Expands in California
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In line with its endeavour to connect guests with Thailand’s natural and artistic heritage, MANATHAI Hotels & Resorts has launched another luxury boutique resort in one of the country’s most popular tourist hotspots.
MANATHAI Koh Samui
Dublin, California
tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced that its Aloft Hotels brand will soon add yet another destination to its California portfolio with the debut of Aloft Dublin-Pleasanton. Owned by Zenique Hotels, the new property is slated to open in March 2017 and will feature 120 loft-like rooms, a buzzing social scene and innovative brand-led programming. Further facilities will include a large outdoor splash pool with cabanas, a 24-hour fitness centre, flexible meeting space, a one-stop gourmet grab-and-go food and beverage area and the brand’s signature W XYZ bar.
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ocated opposite a fishing village on Lamai Beach, the 148-key MANATHAI Koh Samui sets itself apart by the lengths to which it has gone to remain authentic to the cultural nuances of the destination. The beach resort offers a selection of culinary experiences and various meeting spaces, while for weddings, expert event planners are at guests’ service.
China to Welcome Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain
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ix Senses Qing Cheng Mountain will have its preview opening on August 1. Its 113 guest units range from semi-detached suites in duplex villas with balconies and verandas, to courtyard suites, garden and pool villas. Two and four-bedroom villas offer intimate seclusion, with indoor courtyard and whirlpools or pools. The property will also boast a number of food and beverage outlets, a bar and lounge, and a Chinese tea lounge. Meeting and event space will also be on offer, in addition to a Six Senses spa.
25 JULY 2015
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RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi’s unique selling points that make it ideal for Middle Eastern travellers? EVGENIA BOYANKOVA: The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is the ultimate definition of something for everybody. Whether you are after a romantic getaway, some peace and privacy, or an actionpacked family holiday – you will not be disappointed with your stay at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. The resort boasts one of the biggest kids’ clubs and recreation centres in the Maldives, offers gaming facilities for the young and old, and has exclusive water sports from jet skis to extreme flying boarding. Surrounded by the ocean, the luxurious villas at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi are secluded, offering a lot of privacy, with some featuring private pools. And for the lovers of fine food, there are 14 outlets offering international and unique local dining experiences.
Q & A with
Evgenia Boyankova DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING, THE SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How has interest from MENA grown over the past years? EVGENIA BOYANKOVA: Our visitors from MENA have a great love for the Maldives and in particular, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. We have many repeat guests, and our attentive staff are honoured to be able to tend to the needs of our guests to ensure a relaxing and memorable holiday experience. The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is regarded as one of the most family-friendly resorts in the Maldives, and we are also a popular couples’ retreat. Due to the size of the island, there is ample space for everyone to have the kind of holiday experience they are looking for – with the kids playing and having fun on one part of the island, while the adults are enjoying a tranquil spa treatment on another part of the island.
THE MALDIVES REMAINS A FIRM FAVOURITE AMONG FAMILIES AND COUPLES LOOKING FOR THE ULTIMATE IN RELAXATION AND LUXURY AND ACCORDING TO EVGENIA BOYANKOVA, DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING, THE SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI, MALDIVES, THIS SECLUDED GATEWAY HAS IT ALL.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What makes the Indian Ocean a popular choice for Middle Eastern travellers? EVGENIA BOYANKOVA: There are several reasons that make the Indian Ocean a popular destination for our Middle Eastern visitors, including the year-round perfect weather and close proximity to the Middle East region. With so many direct flight options
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The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Maldives
from the region’s major cities, the perfect long weekend escape is just a few hours away. It is the ideal way to rest, relax and get back to nature after a hot and hectic week in the city. And many of our current offers include flight and three to four nights’ accommodation. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the main trends shaping the tourism industry’s future in the country? EVGENIA BOYANKOVA: The Maldives welcome a high percentage of guests who stay for three to four nights from countries that are a four to five hour flight away. As such, the Middle East, Asia and Australia are among the countries considered our largest target markets because of their geographical proximity to the island. We find that our visitors will plan their trip anywhere from three months to three days in advance, which is also possible because of the close proximity and the growing number of flight options and connections – especially from the Middle East, where Saudi Arabia will also come online with direct flights soon. The vast number of islands and resorts across the Maldives results in tough competition, which is great for the tourists [...]. More and more, as the islands develop and the number of resorts and facilities grow, we expect that travellers will want to enjoy experiences outside of their chosen resort. Passing by the golf competition at our new development on Dhigurah Island, or taking a yacht sail to Iru Fushi, will become more popular activities as the tourism sector continues to develop and mature over the coming years. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What can guests look forward to at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi this summer? EVGENIA BOYANKOVA: This summer, at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, the flagship property of Sun Siyam Resorts, our guests can fully immerse the whole family in true Maldivian beauty with a range of special holiday offers. [...] [It] features 221 luxury oceanfront villas, including 70 over-water bungalows, 14 restaurants and bars, a 20-room tropical spa, and range of activities and local explorations, whatever kind of magical getaway guests are looking for, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has it all. 25 JULY 2015
WHO'S MOVED
ROSHAN MENDIS
Roshan Mendis has been appointed senior vice president for Sabre Travel Network’s Asia Pacific division, following the completion of the company’s acquisition of Abacus International. In his capacity, Mendis will be responsible for the company’s business in the region which will include the newly acquired business that further strengthens the global technology provider’s presence in Asia Pacific, where Abacus International serves 100,000 travel agents across 59 markets. Mendis, who is relocating from Texas, US, will be based at the company’s regional headquarters in Singapore.
RICK MULIA
Mendis will be responsible for the overall company’s business in Asia Pasific
GRANT RUDDIMAN
Grant Ruddiman has taken over at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates as the new general manager. A 30-year hospitality veteran, Ruddiman has held various regional and corporate-based roles on four continents. His resume includes eight hotel openings, multiple refurbishments and several upgrades and business re-engineering projects. With Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates’ refurbishment work currently in its final phase, Ruddiman is looking forward to finalising and relaunching what will be one of the finest and most high-performing assets in the Kempinski portfolio.
Ruddiman has held various regional and corporate-based roles on four continents
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ALEXANDER SUSKI
Rick Mulia has rejoined Wego’s leadership team as chief advertising and media officer. A well-respected digital professional with a combination of technical, sales and managerial skills, Mulia was the one who established the travel search site’s audience engagement platform in 2013 as well as the Wego Private Marketplace, building the company’s ad technology stack while also creating opportunities designed to benefit clients with travel business, as well as agencies and trading desks. In his capacity, he will lead Wego’s advertising and media business globally, including both direct and programmatic sales. Mulia returns to Singapore after relocating to Jakarta towards the end of 2014 to launch the Indonesian office of Twitter. He previously also served at MSN and Yahoo!.
Alexander Suski has been hired by Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates in Dubai as director of sales and marketing. Suski will be responsible for implementing the property’s sales and marketing strategy, and leading the sales team to achieve the set business objectives and targets. He first joined Kempinski in 2012 and has since worked at a number of the group’s Middle Eastern establishments. His career has taken him to Egypt, later on to Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre, and most recently to Kempinski Hotel Ajman. Having worked in competitive and challenging markets, Suski has a strong focus on brand strength, profit optimisation and maximising market share.
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TRAVEL TALK
SULTAN AL DHAHERI Acting executive director, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority
PETER BAUMGARTNER Chief commercial officer, Etihad Airways
We are working [...] to convert that demand into increased visitor numbers to Al Ain
Our efforts have contributed to making Morocco an ideal destination
“The new format [of Al Ain Air Championship] is sure to create tremendous interest among regional and international families and we are working closely with tourism stakeholders to convert that demand into increased visitor numbers to Al Ain. The Al Ain Experience Pass and Stay and Soar Packages, developed with local hotels, malls and attractions, are attractive, high-value packages which will ensure that visitors stay longer and do more during their trip to the Oasis City for the championship.”
“It is a great honour to be recognised globally for our excellence across [three categories at the World Travel Awards]. We have been working very hard to enhance the level of service at Mazagan, and we believe our efforts have contributed to making Morocco an ideal destination for visitors from around the Arab region and beyond. We have played a key role over the past year in boosting the number of tourists to Morocco from new markets, especially from the Arab region.”
STEPHAN KILLINGER President, Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort
Travellers from more than 50 cities [...] can conveniently reach Zürich and Geneva
We understand the importance of thanking our loyal guests
“We are proud to announce this partnership [with Zürich Film Festival] and fly international personalities to one of the biggest cultural events in Switzerland. Travellers from more than 50 cities around the world can conveniently reach Zürich and Geneva using Etihad Airways’ daily flights, and the domestic and regional European services of our partner airlines, airberlin, NIKI, Alitalia, Air Serbia and Etihad Regional.”
“As a leading hotel company we understand the importance of thanking our loyal guests. The Marriott summer promotion is a testament of our commitment to offering our customers a variety of ways of making lasting memories, ranging from city breaks to romantic getaways or family holidays. Exceptional rates combined with add-on benefits at 35 participating hotels across nine countries will enable guests to enjoy a longer Marriott experience for less.”
NEAL JONES Chief sales and marketing officer, Marriott International
TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
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25 JULY 2015
AGENT CORNER
Agent’s Insight NAME:
Joxelyn Ruiz
POSITION:
Travel coordinator/director
COMPANY:
Kakim Travel
LOCATION:
Venezuela
WEBSITE:
www.kakimtravel.com
Who are you? We are an online travel operator offering nature trips to Venezuela and Panama. Our purpose is to offer a quality experience when visiting Caribbean beaches and amazing tropical jungles. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? My favourite thing about being in the travel industry is to offer travellers details and recommendations about places that I have myself explored. When is the best time to visit Venezuela and Panama? To Venezuela, to visit the world’s highest waterfall, Angels Fall, you must go between July and November, which is the rainy season, but if you want to hike the Roraima mountain range, it is better do it between December and May, during the dry season. To Panama, it is good to go from July to October to watch humpback whales in Boca Chica Island. Where would you like to travel for your next holiday? I feel a special attraction to Greece and Turkey. I am excited to see those countries. Why should people come to you for travel advice? I have explored all of the destinations that we offer, therefore I give personalised assistance. Also, I care about giving the best option at places to visit, looking for the best quality services and price. 25 JULY 2015
I
Signing ceremony
SNTTA and Thumbay to Spur Medical Tourism Growth
n a bid to bolster the sector’s advancement, travel services provider SNTTA has signed a memorandum of understanding with Thumbay Medical & Health Tourism Department. According to Akbar Moideen Thumbay, director, healthcare and retail, Thumbay Group, given the manifold issues relating to medical tourism and the rapid development of the area, it is becoming essential that hospitals, insurers and policy makers work together to streamline processes to cater to the market’s needs. “UAE has tremendous potential to come up as the most important medical-tourism destination for the people of this region,” added Thumbay. The two entities joint forces to offer world-class services at affordable prices to international patients with SNTTA looking after travel and accommodation arrangements and other logistics.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS Baby Giraffes Welcomed at Sir Bani Yas Island
Oman Air Supports Nepal Earthquake Relief Following the devastating Nepal earthquake in April, Oman Air came forward to collect money to be sent for the rehabilitation of those devastated by the natural disaster.
A
s Paul Gregorowitsch, CEO, Oman Air, revealed, the team managed to collect close to OMR10,000 (USD26,000) that was handed over to the Oman Charitable Association, which is spearheading a campaign aimed at helping the victims of the earthquake. Despite severe schedule changes and congestion at the airport, the Omani carrier was able to resume its services between Kathmandu and Muscat on the day following the events.
S
ir Bani Yas Island recently welcomed two Giraffe calves, a female and a male, to its wildlife family, which features thousands of free-roaming animals. Marius Prinsloo, general manager, corporate operations, Sir Bani Yas Island, said, “We are pleased to welcome these latest additions to our wildlife family. The healthy calves are a result of our breeding and monitoring programmes that ensure the island is a haven for diverse wildlife population.” The giraffes can be seen wandering around the 4,100ha Arabian Wildlife Park, a popular attraction on the island.
Paul Gregorowitsch (centre)
SCTNH: Medina to Witness Change
Turtles Hatch on Saadiyat Beach
T
Al-Hejaz Railway Museum
ourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) has announced the successful hatching of the first Hawksbill turtle nest on Saadiyat Beach for this year. Over 80 baby turtles emerged from the nest, located adjacent to Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas on Saadiyat Beach. Nathalie Staelens, head of environmental services, TDIC, said, “The annual return of the endangered turtles is a testament to TDIC’s commitment to ensuring they are able to nest safely while more hotel developments are taking place along the beach line.”
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ollowing the visit of King Salman bin Abdul Aziz, custodian of the two Holy Mosques to Medina, H.R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president, Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTNH), commented that the city has always enjoyed the Kingdom ’s attention at different levels and has witnessed mega developmental projects, including those aimed at caring for Islamic history sites. Currently, work is underway on the development of Islam’s great battles’ sights and on historic mosques. As Abdul Aziz added, SCTNH and its partners are working persistently to survey and record the Islamic history sites, completing the work and initiatives undertaken by the government regarding cultural heritage.
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Saadiyat Beach
25 JULY 2015
PHOTO ALBUM
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road and Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai celebrated Iftar with cab drivers
Etihad Airways pilots and cabin crew visited the Sheikh Khalifa Medical City to mark this year's Eid Al Fitr
Ramada Downtown Dubai welcomed some less privileged children under the care and supervision of UAE Red Crescent
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Turkish Airlines wished passengers Eid Mubarak with an Arabic message on the fuselage of its aircraft
Al Montazah’s visitors celebrated Eid Al Fitr in a fun-filled atmosphere in Sharjah
Sponsored by Ayla Hotels and Resorts, Gulf Air and Eastern Motors held a grand raffle in Al Ain
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NEWS & EVENTS Crown Prince Attends Cycling Event
H.
H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, crown prince of Dubai, attended the second day of the 70km amateur cycling event at the third NAS Ramadan Sports Tournament in Nad Al Sheba, held in Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex. Al Maktoum checked the area to ensure that the participants had professional medical help and care available to them by the organising committee.
EVENTS IBTM CHINA Beijing, China August 05 – 06 www.cibtm.com A place for meetings, events and incentives industry decision-makers to meet for global business adventures.
ICOMEX Mexico City, Mexico August 25 – 26 www.icomex-mexico.com Part of ibtm events, the show focusses on incentives, congresses and conventions in Latin America.
ONLINE TRAVEL MARKET HURGHADA
The crown prince (right) at the event
Hurghada, Egypt September 04 – 05 www.otmhurghada.com A specialised event for travel technology and online travel solutions in Egypt and the Middle East.
BITE Concludes on a High Note
T
he 12th edition of Beijing International Tourism Expo (BITE) attracted more than 5,000 exhibitors and buyers from 81 countries and regions. During the three-day event, some 12,000 visitors attended the programme that showcased a diverse range of new travel products and services. With an array of exciting activities, breakthroughs and additions, BITE surpassed its predecessor and accommodated over 3,000 meetings with business transactions reaching more than CNY5.6 billion (USD901 million), an increase of six percent over 2014. In addition, the event placed greater emphasis on on-site sales promotions, with 33 travel agencies receiving travel reservations from about 32,000 customers. The next staging will be held in June 2016 at the China National Convention Centre.
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MICE ASIA PACIFIC EXHIBITION Singapore, Singapore September 10 – 11 www.miceasiaexhibition.com Over two days, the event aims to connect Asia’s leading meetings, conference, exhibition and events organisers and help them network with Asia Pacific venues.
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