1 AUGUST 2015
ISSUE 299
SAUDI ARABIA: MORE THAN 5.8 MILLION UMRAH VISAS ACCORDING TO THE JUNE STR GLOBAL CONSTRUCTION PIPELINE REPORT, THERE ARE 659 HOTELS TOTALLING 168,361 ROOMS UNDER CONTRACT IN MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA (MEA).
09 JEDDAH WELCOMES THIRD RADISSON BLU
11 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE TECHNOLOGY ACCOMMODATION AIR CRUISING INTERNATIONAL RENDEZVOUS WHO'S MOVED TRAVEL TALK AGENT CORNER TRAVEL CHANNELS PHOTO ALBUM NEWS & EVENTS
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MEA: OVER 168,000 ROOMS SIGNED
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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
Middle East Drives Global Movements Growth
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ACI 14, fic 0 2 i In -Pac Asia ts have r o airp ndled n ha billio 2.48 ngers? e pass
According to Airports Council International Asia-Pacific, the Middle East’s aviation industry continues to outperform other regions, having recorded a 10.9 percent surge in passenger volumes in May, well above the global average of 6.9 percent.
ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba CONTRIBUTORS Ana Mladenovic Dominique Christou PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian Inna Armeanu DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS
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T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670
ithin the Asia Pacific region, that registered a 10.6 percent improvement in May, Dubai International came second behind Bangkok Don Muang with a growth of 23.2 percent. In contrast, air freight was impacted by weak economic development in Europe and slowdown across Asian export markets, resulting in a 4.4 percent rise in the Middle East and a marginal increase of 1.6 percent in Asia Pacific in line with the worldwide average of 1.9 percent incline.
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As of
31/7/2015
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
99.64
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.83
Iran (IRR)
Rial
29,623.27
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,191.94
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,510.40
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.36
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.85
Syria (SYP)
Pound
188.82
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.97
Yemen (YER)
Rial
215.12
Dubai International Traffic up 23.2 Percent Passenger volumes at Dubai International continued their rapid ascent in May as the hub welcomed close to 6.27 million travellers, marking a surge of 23.2 percent compared to the corresponding month in 2014 when a refurbishment project took place at the airport.
Dubai International
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
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astern Europe remained the fastest growing region and the Indian subcontinent, GCC and North America all registered notable improvements. During the first five months of the year, over 32.38 million passengers were handled by Dubai International; 9.4 percent more than in 2014. As Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports, noted, the next weeks are set to put the hub to the test with record movements expected. 1 AUGUST 2015
TECHNOLOGY WEEKLY NEWS
Sabre Pilots Google Hotel Programme Sabre is launching a beta test of a new hotel digital marketing programme from Google, designed to help drive bookings.
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he Google Hotel Ads Commission Program combines the benefits and reach of Google Hotel Ads with the properties’ existing commission schemes by making their best available retail rates searchable and bookable on Google. When travellers look up a hotel on Google Search, Google Maps or Google+, they will be able to select it as well as the rate they want, and then book the room directly with the property without ever leaving the page, reducing the abandonment rate commonly seen when consumers have to switch sites to complete a transaction. “This is just the latest example of how we are continually investing in innovative solutions that deliver unique value to hotels and the travellers they serve,” said Alex Alt, president, Sabre Hospitality Solutions.
UNWTO and Amadeus Strengthen Partnership
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orld Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and Amadeus have signed a memorandum of understanding to consolidate their cooperation in several areas. This includes the development of a UNWTO prototype on multi-modality, the door-to-door planning and ticketing of trips involving all possible transport options to further integrate different means of commuting between destinations around the world.
Travelport Pens Agreement with Flight Centre Travel Group
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ravelport has signed a new multiyear deal with Australia-based international travel company, Flight Centre Travel Group which is to become one of its global distribution system providers. The partnership represents a continuation of the ties between the two organisations which span over two decades.
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WEEKLY NEWS
MEA: OVER 168,000 ROOMS SIGNED IN JUNE According to the June STR Global Construction Pipeline Report, there are 659 hotels totalling 168,361 rooms under contract in Middle East and Africa (MEA). This represents a 17 percent increase compared with June 2014.
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he region boasts 95,162 rooms in 366 projects under construction, a fact that signals a 44.3 percent year-overyear rise in the specific segment. Dubai reported the largest growth with 17,358 keys in 68 properties under development. Three other markets have more than 5,000 units in the pipeline, namely Mecca with 14,882, Riyadh with 6,551 and Doha with 6,119 rooms.
Morocco: GCC Tourists on the Rise
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orocco, where tourism accounts for around eight to nine percent of the national GDP, continued to experience sharp increases in the number of visitors from the GCC. Stephan Killinger, president, Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, attributed the growth in demand to the country’s pleasant weather, attractive packages and easy travel logistics between the Kingdom and the region. In 2013, when the country welcomed a record of 10 million tourists, around USD418 million were spent in Morocco by GCC travellers. “We are taking the accommodation and entertainment offers to a new level, matching European quality accommodation at better prices and with excellent climate throughout the year,” added Killinger.
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WEEKLY NEWS XX
Dubai: 1,600 Food and Beverage Outlets by 2019
Oman to Educate Tomorrow’s Professionals
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s food sales continue to grow in the UAE, KPMG expects the opening of an additional 1,600 food and beverage outlets in Dubai by 2019. As Youssef Jammal, head, hospitality and retail, The H Holding Enterprise, noted, food sales in the country are set to soar 36 percent to AED38.5 billion (USD10.5 billion) by year-end, from AED 28.3 billion (USD7.7 billion) in 2011. “Our hospitality outlets across the UAE have recorded unprecedented sales, exceeding our expectations for the first half of the year,” added Jammal, suggesting that building on the positive results, the company is keen on further investment into new projects in Dubai’s food and beverage sector.
he German University of Technology (GUtech) in Oman has launched a bachelor programme in international business and service management which is aligned with the needs of the Sultanate’s tourism sector as well as the overall requirements of the local business environment. Speaking at Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Michael Modigell, rector, GUtech, implied that the module will help promote tourism as a leading business sector in the country. Heba Aziz, head, logistics department, tourism and service management, GUtech, added, “Our new programme is the predecessor of the sustainable tourism and regional development programme. [It] focusses on the tourism sector and related service sectors like transportation, aviation, event management from an international business approach.”
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audi Arabia’s aviation sector is dynamic due to the country’s expanding population and increasing religious tourism, as the government continues to work to sophisticate and streamline the industry through infrastructure development, privatisation initiatives and market liberalisation. This was suggested in a Frost & Sullivan study, where it is also stressed that the opening of the first phase of Medina airport’s expansion, which was constructed and will now be operated as a private enterprise, will assist in economic diversification. “Besides improving efficiency, privatisation ensures that the airport management will have a more focussed business outlook that could contribute to the economy of the Kingdom,” said Vinod Cartic, senior consultant, business and financial services, Frost & Sullivan.
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Medina
Frost & Sullivan: Medina Airport First Step to Big Changes
1 AUGUST 2015
WEEKLY NEWS Promoting Oman as a Unique Destination kno u o y d Di
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mong the activities organised at Oman’s pavilion in Expo Milano, Oman’s Ministry of Tourism also launched a thematic week which included many events aimed at introducing the Sultanate and promoting it as a unique tourist destination. The country presented ancient traditions as well as its future plans for sustainable development. As a strategic meeting point between Asia and Africa, Oman is among the richest countries within its region in regards to historical, cultural and environmental backgrounds. During the week, dedicated tourism writers, photographers and journalists made their contribution with a specific topic each day linked to the desert, the sea and traditions.
KidzMondo Comes to Riyadh
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bdul Rahman Saad Al-Rashid and Sons entered an exclusive agreement with Lebanon-based Kidz Holding to create seven KidzMondo Edutainment Cities in various parts of Saudi Arabia over the next 10 years. Starting with Riyadh, the company is to introduce a concept dedicated to children aged between two and 14 years which combines playtime and learning, with KidzMondo City expected to open in the first quarter of 2017. Ali Kazma, chairman, Kidz Holding, said, “We have always regarded the GCC countries, especially Saudi Arabia, as a strategic market for our innovative educational and entertainment projects. We also expect to achieve great success through the signing of this agreement and entrance into the largest market of the Arab world.”
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1 AUGUST 2015
WEEKLY NEWS Saudi Arabia: More Than 5.8 Million Umrah Visas
New Training Package for Civil Aviation Professionals
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Abra Water Hopping Service
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H. Prince Khalid bin Saud bin Khalid, foreign affairs assistant minister, Saudi Arabia, announced that the government issued a total of 5,808,675 Umrah visas in the current season through 110 Saudi consulate missions abroad. Moreover, he noted that the Kingdom managed to provide all facilities and services for Muslims from all over the world to enable them to perform Umrah rituals in ease and tranquillity. Bin Khalid lauded the guided-group Umrah performers system for those coming from abroad as well as from within the country, attributing the success of the recent measure to the coordination among the ministries of foreign affairs, interior and Hajj.
he International Civil Aviation Organization launched its first training package, developed by one of its newly-established regional training centres of excellence. The new personnel licensing management course was created by Singapore Aviation Academy and is offered online as well as in a classroom environment. It targets technical, managerial and administrative staff involved in staff licensing activities of civil aviation authorities and service providers. The course enables participants to identify essential components and processes of a country’s personnel licensing system for flight crew, air traffic controllers and aircraft maintenance engineers.
UAE Rivals Major Tourist Attractions
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y 2020, the UAE will directly compete with destinations such as Las Vegas, Orlando, London, Paris, New York and Ibiza. This was voiced by Phil Taylor, director, Team Leisure, who added that the next five years will see the transformation of the country’s leisure and entertainment offering with unique concepts coming up, like the world’s first Bollywood theme park, the Warner Bros. resort on Yas Island, the new Louvre and Guggenheim museums in Abu Dhabi and the Dubai-I set to become the largest Ferris wheel in the world. With PwC forecasting that theme parks in the UAE pipeline will attract 18 million visits by 2021, Philip Shepherd, Middle East hospitality and leisure leader, PwC, said, “The UAE has recognised the need for investment and focus on the quality of attractions to appeal to its increasing, culturally diverse visitor base.”
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Ascott’s Saudi Properties Open for Booking
Citadines Al Salamah
The Ascott Limited made its three upcoming Jeddah properties available for booking.
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incent Miccolis, area general manager, GCC, The Ascott Limited, commented, “We have been receiving many enquiries from companies wanting the product quality and service one would expect from an international branded serviced apartment.” Featuring studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments, Ascott Sari is luxuriously furnished in a Parisian theme reflecting contemporary and elegant living. Moreover, Ascott Tahlia comprises 20 floors of luxury where it hosts studios, one-, two and three-bedroom units, including four penthouses. Lastly, similar in offering, Citadines Al Salamah is a 15-minute drive from King Abdulaziz International Airport, close to numerous restaurants, hospitals, schools, theme parks and shopping centres, including Mall of Arabia and Red Sea Mall.
Sustained Market Performance for HMH in H1
Ezdan Hotels: 10 Percent Occupancy Increase
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otels under Hospitality Management Holdings (HMH) held on strong during the first half (H1) of the year despite various market challenges. Commenting on the performance, Laurent Voivenel, CEO, HMH, said, “We operate across 15 cities in the MENA region. Each destination is unique. This summer has been a rather tough one given the market conditions.” In order to boost performance in volatile markets HMH has deployed a series of strategic measures and Voivenel stressed that the company is aggressively promoting its properties in emerging markets such as China and India. “To drive new markets, a series of strategic road shows and sales initiatives are being combined with digital optimisation, targeted marketing campaigns and brand partnerships,” he concluded.
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Citadines Al Salamah
ccupancy at Ezdan Hotels & Suites grew 10 percent, In the first half of the year, in conjunction with the completion of the property’s first revamp phase. Nasser Mohammed Al Abdulla, deputy CEO, Ezdan Holding Group, commented that seven floors went through redevelopment to achieve the highest level of luxury. He added that the second stage, which is to transform a 4,500m2 space on the fourth floor, is underway and includes the establishment of a children’s indoor play area, as well as improvements at the property’s supermarket and health club. Moreover, Hasib Kayali, general manager, Ezdan Hotels & Suites, revealed that the newly-opened Al Thuraya Restaurant was very popular during Ramadan, prompting more than 90 percent turnout.
1 AUGUST 2015
ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS R Hotels Awards Palm Jumeirah Property Contracts
The upcoming property
Jeddah Welcomes Third Radisson Blu
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arlson Rezidor Hotel Group opened its ninth project in Saudi Arabia with Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Jeddah becoming also the third property of the brand in the city. Basel Talal, district director, Saudi Arabia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, commented that with its prime location, the 112-unit Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Jeddah is a welcome addition to the growing hospitality market in the Saudi destination. “We have a first-class team in place and an unqualified desire to make this newly rebranded property a huge success,” he added. The hotel’s rooms offer thoughtfullydesigned work desks, satellite TVs and large beds aiming to provide an experience reflective of the needs of today’s traveller, whereas its suites feature own separate bedroom and lounge areas.
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Hotels appointed ANC Contracting as the main contractor and Erga Progress Engineering Consultancy as project advisor for the second phase of construction of its new resort and spa on Palm Jumeirah, which is expected to be completed by 2016. With a total investment of AED500 million (USD136.2 million), R Hotels’ property will include 253 rooms, a holistic wellness centre, two restaurants and family-friendly recreational facilities. According to Samir Arora, vice president, operations, R Hotels, the company’s biggest investment to date will exemplify its vision of providing top-quality accommodation and facilities to guests, complemented by superior service.
Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Jeddah
1 AUGUST 2015
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION ow. . n k u o Did y portfolioour
Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman and Ramada Private Beach Club
R Hotels to Add Ajman Property
f tels' des R Ho ly inclu otels, t lh en pres erationa one set op a fifth ird e th with en in th e year h p to o ter of t i? r a a b u u q in D
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Hotels is to further consolidate its presence in the UAE with a new 182-key project in Ajman. With a total investment of AED150 million (USD40.9 million), construction works are expected to commence in the third quarter of the year with a scheduled opening date for the first quarter of 2017. Located beside Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman, another R Hotels property, on Ajman Corniche, the hotel is set to appeal to both leisure and corporate guests, boasting sea-facing rooms, a restaurant, spa and fitness centre and an indoor swimming pool. “Ajman is a very attractive market for us. In line with our expansion plan, this project comes in at a suitable time to accommodate the demands of the growing market in the emirate,” commented Sumair Tariq, managing director, R Hotels.
Steigenberger to Debut in Dubai in October
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Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay, Dubai
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teigenberger Hotels is gearing up for the launch of the company’s flagship project in Dubai, a five-star hotel at Business Bay, just a stone’s throw away from Burj Khalifa. Scheduled to welcome its first guests this October, the German hotelier’s first property in the UAE will feature 365 rooms and suites, five restaurants, a banqueting and conference area, spa, fitness facilities and a pool. According to Puneet Chhatwal, CEO, Steigenberger Hotels, the upcoming inauguration, which follows the announcement of InterCityHotel Culture Village, set to debut in the emirate at the end of 2017, reaffirms the company’s commitment to international expansion, especially in the Middle East. “The hotel in Dubai is symbolic of our growing international presence at strategically important locations,” added Chhatwal.
1 AUGUST 2015
AIR WEEKLY NEWS
Emirates to Fly to Bamako Emirates is to add Bamako, the capital and largest city of Mali, to its global network, effective from October 25.
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ocated on the Niger River and home to some 2.3 million people, Bamako will be linked to the airline’s current four-weekly service to Dakar in Senegal, which offers a total of 267 seats onboard an Airbus A340-300. As Adil Al Ghaith, senior vice president, commercial operations, Northern and Western Africa, Emirates, pinpointed, there is currently no direct service between Dubai and Bamako. “Mali has a growing economy and huge tourism potential, and we expect that linking Bamako to our Dakar service will greatly boost both business and leisure travel to and from Mali,” added Al Ghaith.
Qatar Airways Cargo Enhances Services
Easy Flight Change Method at Wizz Air
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atar Airways Cargo is introducing its first Boeing 747 freighter to further develop its global on-demand charter operations. The B747-400BCF will complement the airline’s expanding cargo fleet providing 112.5 tonnes of capacity dedicated to worldwide charter services. Ulrich Ogiermann, chief officer, cargo, Qatar Airways, said, “Qatar Airways Cargo is experiencing increased worldwide demand for quality charter services as well as growing local demand with significant infrastructure projects under way in Qatar that require outsized cargo capacity.” Additionally, the airline will welcome a B747-400F with a nose loading door to its fleet in October, replacing the B747BCF to provide more flexibility to satisfy customers’ oversized cargo transportation demands.
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izz Air has introduced a new simplified process for flight changes, allowing passengers to alter date or routing. By paying a fee of 50 percent of the original fare, customers can opt for new alternatives online as well as via the reservations call centre or airport agents. The extra fee can also be avoided by selecting the Plus Fare or the Wizz Flex options when booking, which guarantee an unlimited number of changes. “While many economy products do not allow flight changes, Wizz Air’s low fares are flexible and booking can be adapted if the travel needs of our customers change,” explained Daniel de Carvalho, corporate communications, Wizz Air.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR Qatar Airways Doubles Pakistan Offering
Austrian Airlines Ceases Dubai Operations
Inauguration ceremony in Faisalabad
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ustrian Airlines will discontinue its direct services between Vienna and Dubai as of mid-September. The company cited over-capacity as the main reason behind the decision, which, according to the airline, resulted in fierce price competition with up to 800 seats per day on offer. “Unfortunately, the Vienna – Dubai route has become unsustainable for us,” explained Andreas Otto, chief commercial officer, Austrian Airlines, adding that the capacities which will become available will be deployed for attractive, new destinations, such as Miami, Mauritius and Colombo. Passengers of Lufthansa Group will still be able to fly to Dubai via Frankfurt, Zurich and Munich.
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atar Airways has introduced two new destinations in Pakistan on consecutive days. Sialkot is now being served four times a week, while Faisalabad is linked to Doha thrice-weekly. As Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, noted, the company has a long-standing commitment to serve Pakistan. “There is a significant number of Pakistani expatriates who are working in Qatar and the GCC. The launch of these new destinations will enable us to quickly meet the growing demand of these travellers,” added Al Barker. Qatar Airways operates a total of 45 flights a week to four other destinations in Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and Peshawar.
DhabiJet Awarded RA3 Certification
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bu Dhabi Airports’ ground handling service provider DhabiJet has obtained the RA3 certification for cargo operations at Al Ain International Airport. The documentation is a supply chain security initiative designed by European Union (EU) authorities and with its issuance, EU member states recognise DhabiJet as a regulated agent, confirming that it meets the security requirements for screening air cargo and mail entering the EU. The development positions DhabiJet as a regional leader in the aviation services sector and reaffirms Abu Dhabi’s standing as one of the world’s top aviation hubs.
Emirates Takes A380 to Taiwan
Oman Air Enhances Recruitment Programme
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Sudan Airways lands in Abu Dhabi
n July 19, Emirates operated a one-off service of its flagship Airbus A380 to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. The arrival of the aircraft follows the recent completion of enhancements at the airport to make it compatible with the double-decker A380. “Taiwan is an important market for Emirates, and we have witnessed increased demand from passengers since we began daily flights between Dubai and Taipei in February 2014. We are pleased to have the opportunity to showcase our state-of-the-art onboard products and services to passengers in Taiwan,” commented Edwin Lau, vice president, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Guangzhou, Emirates.
ollowing positive response to its current recruitment drive, Oman Air is expanding opportunities for Omani nationals to become pilots at the airline. Once accepted, Omani citizens with no prior flying experience or qualification will be enrolled in the Cadet Pilot training programme, the study cost of which will be covered 100 percent by Oman Air. They will undergo initial flight training in an approved organisation selected by the carrier, followed by a type-rated course. Moosa Al Shidhani, acting CEO, flight operations, Oman Air, commented that the company strives to expand its pilot recruitment programme and give more Omani men and women the opportunity to develop a career in civil aviation. 1 AUGUST 2015
WEEKLY NEWS CRUISING
MSC Cruises Adds Cuban Base As of December, MSC Cruises’ 2,120-guest MSC Opera will homeport in Havana, Cuba for the winter season, to offer guests 16 Caribbean sailings of relaxation and discovery.
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he company will give cruise travellers from around the world the chance to get onboard the completely renovated MSC Opera, part of the cruise line’s Renaissance programme, and sail to Jamaica, the Cayman Islands and Mexico with two nights and two and a half days in the Cuban capital. The seven-night trips will be available to MSC Cruises travellers with a combination of packages. Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises, commented, “We are particularly proud to make this exciting new destination available to our guests.”
Cuba
Silversea Cruises to Introduce New Ship
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ilversea Cruises announced that its new flag ship, Silver Muse is to be delivered in spring 2017. The new ultra-luxury vessel, which will expand the company’s fleet to nine ships, is being built by Fincantieri and will be able to accommodate 596 guests. According to Enzo Visone, CEO, Silversea Cruises, “With enhanced design specifications and enriched content, Silver Muse will continue to build on the sophistication, innovative style and ground-breaking concepts for which Silversea ships are renowned. This ship contributes to our ambitious growth plans that will ensure our continued leadership in ultra-luxury cruising.”
Silver Muse
Carnival Cruise Line Enhances Shore Excursions
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arnival Cruise Line has expanded its shore excursion offerings, adding exclusive new landside experiences and customised private tours, as well as new family-friendly enhancements. Those include fun complimentary beachside activities, value pricing and free tours in select ports for children under five years of age. “Shore excursions are an important part of the Carnival vacation experience and we have gone to great lengths to provide our guests with even more choices and offer families unique value-added services and pricing options that are exclusive to Carnival,” said Erika Tache, director of product development, Carnival Cruise Line.
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1 AUGUST 2015
INTERNATIONAL WEEKLY NEWS
Hyatt announced the opening of Hyatt House Atlanta/Downtown.
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t se A s Hou n offer t t a t w n Hy wnto a t Do y Impor mme, a r a Ve t progr ntary n e e m d r i i l Res mp ping fo o c with ry shop 0 plus 3 e groc ts with ive gues onsecut c ts? nigh
he hotel, which offers 150 residentially-inspired guest rooms, along with studio and one-bedroom kitchen suites, will exceed guest expectations by providing a social and contemporary environment that will help customers feel connected, welcome and at home, as Scot Gladstone, general manager, Hyatt House Atlanta/Downtown, said. Guests will be just a short walk from many of Atlanta’s major attractions, including the Georgia World Congress Center, College Football Hall of Fame, CNN Center, Philips Arena, SkyView Atlanta, Georgia Dome and Children’s Museum of Atlanta.
Hyatt House Atlanta/Downtown
Atlanta Welcomes Hyatt Property
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ARTIC Expands US Hotel Portfolio
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l Rayyan Tourism Investment Company (ARTIC), the international hotel investment and hospitality subsidiary of the Qatar-based Al Faisal Holding, has acquired St. Regis Washington, D.C. The 182-room property enjoys an ideal location and is deemed as the US capital’s premier luxury hotel. It couples classic chic with modern amenities, luxury rooms and suites complete with elegant furnishings. H.E. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, chairman, ARTIC, commented that the latest acquisition, which is the group’s fourth landmark property in the US, underlines the company’s success in becoming one of the leading international hospitality investors.
Carlson Rezidor to Open in South India
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arlson Rezidor Hotel Group is to launch Radisson Resort Hosur, in Tamil Nadu, India in 2018. The new-build property will boast 120 guest rooms and suites, as well as large meeting spaces, including a ballroom and an outdoor event venue. An all-day dining restaurant will be present alongside a range of amenities and recreational facilities, including a gym, health club, spa and an amphitheatre. “Radisson Resort Hosur is an exciting addition to our portfolio and we are honoured to be partnering Pushpam Realty on their first hospitality development,” said Raj Rana, CEO, South Asia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.
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RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: From an investor’s point of view, what are the main benefits of focussing on extended- and long-stay brands in the mena region? RAMSAY RANKOUSSI: Hotel apartments represent a hybrid model of traditional residential developments coupled with a hotel service. If you assess the advantages of the two, you could summarise the benefits in two ways. Firstly, the development cost is lower for an extended-stay property because it is much more efficient with lower back of house requirements. Secondly, if you add the component of full hotel service, this allows you the flexibility of providing short- and longterm duration accommodation options, as well as the benefit of higher yields because of a higher income potential. This business model is readily understood by owners as many of them already have experience in residential buildings so the level of confidence in investing in hotel apartments for them is usually high, meaning they are able to justify their diversified interest in hospitality but with a more accessible model. Finally, because of their simplified offering, serviced apartments also offer higher profit margins because of lower operating costs. Combining these higher profits with a more efficient development cost represents a clear benefit to an owner. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the main trends driving demand for such accommodation options in MENA? RAMSAY RANKOUSSI: If you look at the dynamics behind hotel apartments, you will observe that the MENA region, in particular, has shown great potential because of the tourism and economic boom regionally which has brought different type of clientele who is looking for long stays with all the comforts of home. The profile of these guests is varied and tends to include relocated families on a temporary mission, consultants, workers and also GCC families who prefer the larger space of serviced apartments and the connectivity it provides them to stay all together. If you also look at the flexibility of the hotel apartment, some guests have turned to those as a relatively more accessible option as they can now travel
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Q & A with
Ramsay Rankoussi DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA, THE REZIDOR HOTEL GROUP
cause of new regulations in the region which support the development while imposing minimum standards. A lot of new investors have decided to enter the hospitality industry through this model and it has therefore accelerated the growth because of the success rate. I believe more operators will opt to either manage serviced apartments, as mixed-used, or stand-alone, under a dedicated brand or existing core brand. We have seen more and more mixed-used projects that combine hotel rooms and serviced apartments, but we are also witnessing growth in standalone projects. What will change in the future will be the need to control the funding and financing structure of future hotel apartments. As with any market, when it matures, we start to see more sophistication in the offering and more market diversification. Dubai is certainly leading the way for the region and we are starting to notice the introduction of condominiums and time-share developments even though they are still very much in the infancy stages here. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Please tell us about The Rezidor Hotel Group’s plans. Which destinations are next to welcome the company’s extendedand long-stay brands?
OFFERING A SOLID INVESTMENT PROPOSITION, THE HOTEL APARTMENTS SECTOR IS A LUCRATIVE TERRITORY, ESPECIALLY IN THE MIDDLE EAST, AS RAMSAY RANKOUSSI, DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA, THE REZIDOR HOTEL GROUP, ASSERTS. to expensive destinations like Dubai but essentially reduce the costs of dining out with in-built kitchenette in every serviced apartment. Accordingly, because of the larger space, hotel apartments can accommodate more guests, which is an important benefit for the leisure segment. Historically, it has always been the corporate sector who has been leading the demand for serviced apartments. For many, it is the convenience – being
able to find a fully-furnished apartment with all the facilities and services they need, helps saves time and expense and gives the flexibility of staying as long as they need. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How will supply and demand develop in the short and long term? RAMSAY RANKOUSSI: There has been a clear growth in this specific sector be-
RAMSAY RANKOUSSI: Rezidor entered into serviced apartments at an early stage under our core brands Park Inn by Radisson or Radisson Blu, depending if the project is standard or deluxe. Both brands have been successful and over 50 percent of our future pipeline in the region has either a mixed-used component or is a stand-alone development catering for long-term stays. Geographically, the region has tremendous potential especially for domestic tourism in the secondary cities in Saudi Arabia and business hubs, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Cairo, Riyadh and Jeddah. We have existing hotel apartments operating under both of our core brand in markets including Dubai, Manama, Jeddah and Duqm but we are expecting future openings in Saudi Arabia mainly and in cities like Dammam, Al Khobar and Riyadh. We are also reinforcing our serviced apartment offering in Dubai and Jeddah, both leading markets regionally. 1 AUGUST 2015
WHO'S MOVED
THOMAS FEHLBIER
GUIDO BAYLEY
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Thomas Fehlbier is the new general manager of Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara. Fehlbier moves to Qatar from Thailand where he held the same position at Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa. In the new role, he aims to drive the property’s next wave of transformation and further strengthen its standing as a leading brand in the region. With over 25 years of experience in managing leisure resorts and global hotel chains, Fehlbier brings extensive knowledge to the team. Over the years, he has held various roles across Asia, Europe and the Middle East, and worked with AVANI Sepang GoldCoast Resort & Spa in Malaysia, InterContinental Hotels Group in Europe, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and Jumeirah Group in the UAE.
Guido Bayley has been selected to lead Radisson Blu Hotel Abu Dhabi Yas Island and Park Inn by Radisson Abu Dhabi Yas Island as cluster general manager. A highly experienced hospitality professional, Bayley joins the properties from Radisson Blu Portman Hotel, London where he has served as general manager for the last five years. Bayley has been with The Rezidor Hotel Group for the past 18 years and has worked in six different countries, including South Africa, Hungary and Germany. He has a wealth of knowledge under his belt, particularly in the successful launch of hotels, having opened a number of properties globally. In addition, Bayley has a solid base in food and drink, an area that he aims to further develop at the two hotels.
HANA FUCHS
Hana Fuchs has been appointed director of marketing and communications at Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa. Fuchs has 12 years of experience in marketing and communications, having previously worked for five years in the region with properties such as Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek and Grand Millennium Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi. In her new post, Fuchs will be responsible for managing all marketing and communications initiatives of the establishment while also consolidating its regional presence as a leading beach resort and supporting spa as well as food and beverage promotions.
Fuchs has 12 years of experience
FARES DAGHLAS
Fares Daghlas continues as Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai’s new director of sales and marketing. Having spent more than 12 years in the UAE, Daghlas has a solid background in the hospitality industry. After attaining a business administration degree in hotel management, he started his career in 2002 in Al Ain. Over the years, he has worked for a number of companies, such as InterContinental Hotels Group, Habtoor Group and Rotana before joining Mövenpick Hotel Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai as assistant director of sales, where he developed his career to later become director of sales. In his new position, Daghlas will be in charge of all the sales and marketing activities of the five-star property.
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TRAVEL TALK
IMAD DANA CEO, Al Zorah Development Company
We have respected local culture while creating our concept
I call on our partners to make Qatar stand out this year
“Thanani [that brings an Arabic culinary concept with a European twist to Ajman] will serve a large community of both Arab and Western patrons. We have respected local culture while creating our concept, whilst simultaneously appealing to and going beyond the expectations of Western expats. Al Zorah is all about sophistication [...]. With the opening of the golf course before the end of the year, the golfing community, visitors and the public alike, can expect to enjoy magnificent views from the restolounge.”
“The summer may be a traditionally slow season for most sectors in Qatar, but for the tourism industry it means the arrival of the Eid Al Fitr Festival, followed closely by the Qatar Summer Festival, and the Eid Al Adha Festival. These activities help to diversify and grow our country’s tourism offering, and I call on our partners to make Qatar stand out this year and help us pass the three million visitors mark for the first time by the end of the year.”
H.E. ISSA BIN MOHAMMED AL MOHANNADI Chairman, Qatar Tourism Authority
We have selected Abu Dhabi and Muscat among the first routes to welcome the new Dreamliners
PAOLO DE RENZIS Area commercial manager, Middle East and Central Asia, British Airways
“British Airways continues to renew its commitment across the region as the airline invests in new aircraft and expands its premium travel offerings. In response to our passengers’ demand for luxury travel options, we have selected Abu Dhabi and Muscat among the first routes to welcome the new Dreamliners.”
Egypt has fans from all over the world
SAMI MAHMOUD Chairman, Egypt Tourism Authority
“These positive results [in arrivals to Egypt from Arab countries and international markets] reflect that Egypt has fans from all over the world, particularly from our Arab neighbours. The steady increase in Arab tourists demonstrates their trust and belief in Egypt’s ability to provide its visitors with opportunities to enjoy the most beautiful touristic destinations. Specifically, the Masr Qariba [Egypt is Close] campaign will continue to play a key role in attracting tourists and welcome them in their second home, Egypt.”
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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AGENT CORNER
Agent’s Insight NAME:
Mohammed Hassan
POSITION:
Director and general manager
COMPANY:
Apparent Holidays
LOCATION:
India
WEBSITE:
www.apparentholidays.com
Visa Waiver for Seychellois to the UAE
Who are you? We are an ambitious company which takes care of any tour or travel requirement of our esteemed clients at global level. We were established in April 2011. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? We design packages to give any tourist an insight in to this spiritual and wonderful land blessed by nature [that India is]. We design and promote apparent tours and holidays as the name suggests. They are well-thought and programmed to be relaxing and enjoyable. When is the best time to visit India? October to February is the best season. However, all the seasons are good although with different climatic conditions. April and May are not recommended for visits as the weather is too hot. Where would you like to travel for your next holiday? Europe. Why should people come to you for travel advice? We provide accommodation facilities as per the client’s budget, from a humble home stay to the lovely expanse of five-star luxuries of a hotel or resort. We customise their request and each package is tailored as per the guest’s interest. 1 AUGUST 2015
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ir Seychelles has welcomed the introduction of a visa waiver for Seychellois passport holders travelling to the UAE. The development will allow citizens of the Seychelles to visit the Middle Eastern country for a period of up to 90 days, without applying for a visa before travelling, as an entry document can be granted free of charge on arrival. Joël Morgan, chairman, Air Seychelles, said, “This visa waiver simplifies travel to the UAE for Seychellois passport holders and brings our two countries, which have longstanding bilateral relations, closer together. It signals a clear intent to build on our existing relationship and symbolises the deep level of trust between Seychelles and the UAE, our largest outbound travel destination and the country with most air connections to our archipelago.”
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Kenya Welcomes Etihad Community Outreach Project Etihad Airways, in collaboration with the National Bank of Abu Dhabi, launched two community outreach programmes in Kenya with the donations of blankets and school supplies to the Dream Children’s Home and the Children in Freedom organisation.
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lankets were collected through the Blankets 4 Africa initiative which distributes used airline cabin blankets, toiletry bags and bedding across the continent and as a result over 700 covers were handed over. According to Rachel Gichia, founder, Dream Children’s Home, the generous donations will help alleviate the suffering of the poor and vulnerable. Linden Coppell, head of sustainability, Etihad Airways, added, “As an airline we are committed to making a difference to the communities in which we operate.”
Etihad Airways initiative in Kenya
UNWTO Applauds SCTH’s Efforts
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aleb Rifai, secretary general, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), praised the Saudi cabinet’s approval for the new name of Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH) as the crowning of continuous and concrete efforts for the development of national tourism in the Kingdom. This step is to also augment the commission’s role in the introduction of the country’s heritage at a national and international level and help preserve its unique cultural traditions. Rifai stressed that UNWTO will not hesitate supporting the efforts of SCTH in the Kingdom, emphasising that the partnership between the two entities will be further strengthened in the future.
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Hosts Children
AIG Distributes Food to the Needy
H AIG’s team
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or the fourth consecutive year, Airport International Group (AIG), the Jordanian company responsible for the rehabilitation, expansion and operation of Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA), assisted the local non-governmental organisation, Tkiyet Um Ali, in its efforts to alleviate hunger among families residing in Al Jizah, an underserved area located in the vicinity of QAIA. AIG employees from various departments participated in the one-day activity that included the distribution of food packages in the neighbourhood. “Once again, we are proud to partner with Tkiyet Um Ali in promoting social solidarity by supporting the community of Al Jizah, in which QAIA operates,” commented Kjeld Binger, CEO, AIG.
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awthorn Suites by Wyndham, Dubai with the support of the UAE Red Crescent organised a special Iftar for the less fortunate children. Before enjoying the meal, the young visitors also had the chance to tour the property and play football and various fun games with the heads of department at the garden area. “It is heart-warming to see the smile on the faces of these little angels, who are full of energy and optimism,” said Wael El Behi, general manager, Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham, Dubai, reaffirming the management’s commitment to organising similar activities in the future in order to give back to the community and help the less privileged.
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham, Dubai’s team with the children
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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...
Ahead of live shows in Abu Dhabi, the much loved children’s character Shaun the Sheep visited Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Centro Sharjah held an Iftar for the Old Peoples Home in Sharjah
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, crown prince of Dubai, visited the UAE pavilion at Milano EXPO 2015
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Rare albino alligators are the newest additions at Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis The Palm
Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority gave away a Mercedes-Benz car to a lucky winner as part of Abu Dhabi Summer Season
Semiramis InterContinental Cairo hosted a Sohour for its customers, regular guests and suppliers
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NEWS & EVENTS Al Ain Reads Show Extended
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ollowing the remarkable turnout in 2014, the seventh edition of Al Ain Reads book show has been extended to eight days. Running between October 4 – 11 at the Al Ain Convention Centre, this year’s event will feature an enhanced programme to attract literary and cultural enthusiasts, revealed H.E. Juma Al Qubaisi, executive director, national library division, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, organisers of the fair.
Mid and Economy Sector Booms in Dubai
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lmost 50 percent of the 3,600 new hotel rooms to enter the Dubai market in the final months of the year have a three-star or lower rating, according to a Jones Lang LaSalle report published exclusively for the upcoming The Hotel Show Dubai. Of the current supply of almost 65,000 units in the emirate, 44 percent represents the five-star category. The near-saturated luxury market is, however, expected to be rivalled by a large number of lowergraded properties, 44 percent of which are forecasted to carry three or less stars.
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 Hurghada, Egypt September 04 – 05 www.otmhurghada.com A specialised event for travel technology and online travel solutions in Egypt and the Middle East.
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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