21 NOVEMBER 2015
ISSUE 315
MIDDLE EAST TO ORDER OVER 3,000 NEW AIRCRAFT ACCORHOTELS ENTERED INTO THREE MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS WITH AL RAJHI INVESTMENT GROUP FOR A TRIO-CLUSTER OF PROPERTIES IN MECCA’S NEW MEGA COMPLEX IN AL NASEEM.
03 EMIRATES LAUNCHES NEW ITALIAN GATEWAY
14 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE
02
ACCOMMODATION
09
AIR
14
INTERNATIONAL
18
RENDEZVOUS
19
WHO'S MOVED
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TRAVEL TALK
22
AGENT CORNER
23
TRAVEL CHANNELS
24
PHOTO ALBUM
25
NEWS & EVENTS
26
ACCORHOTELS: OVER 2,000 NEW ROOMS IN MECCA
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MARKET UPDATE
QAIA Traffic Continues to Soar Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) witnessed a 15.3 percent year-on-year growth in passenger traffic in September, marking the hub’s third consecutive month with increased figures.
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uring the month under review, 708,429 travellers passed through the gates, while aircraft movements rose 6.3 percent to 6,796. Cargo volumes reached 8,308 tonnes, corresponding to a decline of 7.4 percent. “In addition to a general increase in passenger traffic to and from Gulf, Turkish, Libyan, Iraqi and European markets, September also marked the occurrence of the Hajj and Eid Al Adha season, stimulating traffic,” explained Kjeld Binger, CEO, Airport International Group, Kjeld Binger.
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MENA EXCHANGE RATES As of
TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
20/11/2015
Currencies shown in blue are fixed against the US Dollar
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
107.82
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.83
Iran (IRR)
Rial
29,967.00
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,114.60
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,506.50
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.40
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.94
Syria (SYP)
Pound
221.01
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.04
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.89
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21 NOVEMBER 2015
WEEKLY NEWS
Middle East to Order Over 3,000 New Aircraft Boeing forecasts airlines in the Middle East will require 3,180 new airplanes over the next 20 years, valued at an estimated USD730 billion, with 70 percent of the demand being driven by rapid fleet expansion.
ow. . n k u o Did y lops andes
eve nologi ng d h Boei new tec reater g s t g s n nd e i t br t cy a y a n h e i t c l fi a f t l e fuel ronmen e i v i v s en res ts prog ons to i i t a v s? inno stomer cu
Middle East Air Cargo Up 7.5 Percent in September
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he International Air Transport Association released data for global air freight showing modest growth for September. Cargo volumes rose one percent compared to the same month in 2014; a slight improvement on the August performance when numbers were broadly stable. Overall, however, freight figures remained 1.2 percent lower than the 2014 yearend peak. The results varied widely by region, with carriers in the Middle East reporting the most significant growth of 7.5 percent, followed by European and African airlines with 2.8 and 2.5 percent, respectively. Asia Pacific volumes rose marginally by 0.3 percent, and markets in North and Latin America recorded declines of 3.3 and 6.4 percentage points, respectively.
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ccording to the latest Boeing Current Market Outlook, single-aisle aircraft will command the largest share of new deliveries, with airlines in the region needing approximately 1,410 planes. These will continue to stimulate growth for low-cost carriers and replace older, less-efficient airliners. Twinaisle airplanes will account for a little under half of the deliveries.
Fast Rent A Car Opens at Abu Dhabi Airport
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ast Rent A Car launched its fourth new location of the year at Abu Dhabi International Airport. Located at Sky Park Plaza, the office is fully equipped to function as an independent vehicle-rental business and is expected to drive an 11 percent growth for the first year of operation. “Abu Dhabi is no doubt a very attractive economic hub for businesses as well a tourists,” explained Walid Al Boasy, district manager, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, Fast Rent A Car. “We predict an increase in demand for car rentals as the region continues to invite exponential footfall and passenger traffic.”
21 NOVEMBER 2015
3
WEEKLY NEWS
Sharjah Lures Chinese Investors at COIF
Dubai Remains Second Best for Shopping
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Sharjah
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n a bid to position the emirate as a leading regional business and investment hub, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) took part in China Overseas Investment Fair (COIF) in Beijing together with Sharjah Airport Free Zone. The delegation held a workshop on promoting investment and highlighted the emirate’s travel and tourism sector, as well as the healthcare, logistics and transport and environment segments. Saud Meqdad Al Suwaidi, director of international relations and partnerships, Shurooq, said, “China is one of the UAE’s largest trade partners and we are eager to further expand bilateral trade and investments.”
ubai has been named the world’s second most important shopping destination for the fourth consecutive year in the annual edition of How Global is the Business of Retail?, by international property advisor CBRE. Based on the report, in 2014, the emirate attracted 45 new international brands, while local names have started making forays into regional and global markets, leaving only London ahead of Dubai. According to Youssef Jammal, head of hospitality and retail, The H Holding Enterprise, the destination today has 55.7 percent of international retailers. “This trend has continued to grow as more high-profile retailers are finding their way in the retail scene in the emirate,” added Jammal.
21 NOVEMBER 2015
Travel Trade Luxury is a worldwide luxury travel trade publication. Travel Trade Luxury is brought out monthly. It is published both in digital and printed format. Its digital readership is based on the 150,000 readers which the Travel Trade Publications platform enjoys. Readers include agents specialising in individual luxury travel, group luxury travel, travel counsellors and advisors, luxury travel DMCs and all other luxury products and services. Travel Trade Luxury is also distributed to the major travel trade exhibitions and specialised luxury shows and events. Travel Trade Luxury contains informative current news on luxury destinations and products. It also includes specialised luxury destination reports with in-depth analyses of issues related to the luxury segment.
WEEKLY NEWS XX Ras Al Khaimah Entices European Visitors
Oman Showcased in Dubai
Ras Al Khaimah delegation
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as Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (TDA) threw the spotlight on the emirate’s diverse tourism product and its strategy for 2018 at the recently-held World Travel Market in London. This year, the destination enjoyed a strong presence at the show with an attractive stand, where more than 60 meetings took place, and a 14-strong delegation led by Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah TDA. “We are at a crucial point in our evolution,” said Mattar. “The Vision for 2018 will set our goals for the future, ensuring Ras Al Khaimah’s long-term prosperity and growth. The number of visitors from the UK has increased by 33 percent year-to-date.”
man’s Ministry of Tourism and Air Arabia joined forces to showcase the Sultanate’s beauty and uniqueness to visitors from the UAE and the GCC, in an experiential event held at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai. The interactive initiative came amid the ministry’s intensified campaign in the UAE to attract more travellers. It also served as a platform to form strategic partnerships with key airline players in the region in a bid to further drive Oman’s growing tourism activity and increase visibility. Participants were treated to an authentic Omani experience with a wide range of major attractions featured, highlighting why many travel experts consider the country as a one-of-a-kind destination.
Muscat
Sharjah Strengthens European Position
Sharjah delegation in London
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harjah’s pavilion at the World Travel Market in London once again attracted a large number of decision-makers and tourism industry representatives. As H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman, Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), noted, the meetings helped promote the emirate as a leading tourist destination for families with a variety of events year-round. Sharjah’s participation in the show for the 13th consecutive year followed the success achieved in 2014 when nearly 663,000 European guests checked into the destination’s accommodation establishments, accounting for 32 percent of the total.
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21 NOVEMBER 2015
WEEKLY NEWS Czech Visa Application Centre Now in Riyadh
AE-based real estate developer Nakheel presented projects worth over USD4.6 billion at the Dubai Property Show in Mumbai. A number of master developments, residential and retail properties were on show at the three-day event, including the new 15.3km2 Deira Islands community, a variety of projects on Palm Jumeirah, a range of offerings at Warsan Village and several largescale retail development across Dubai. Ali Rashid Lootah, chairman, Nakheel, said, “Indians are the top foreign property investors in Dubai, and key to Nakheel’s own customer portfolio. We have a huge Indian customer base now, with one in 10 of our investors coming from India.”
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V Nakheel’s Palm Tower Residences
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Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Creek
Nakheel Developments Showcased in India
FS Global launched a visa application centre for the Czech Republic in Riyadh, where interested parties can submit their applications and enrol for biometrics. Jiri Slavik, ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Czech Republic, commented that the move reflects the growing bilateral relations between the two countries, “By visa outsourcing, the Czech Republic aims at becoming more accessible to all applicants, including those travelling to visit our spas, be it for medical treatment or wellness stays only, to experience the atmosphere of our beautiful cities, castles and palaces, to play golf or to learn filming in a summer school,” added Slavik.
21 NOVEMBER 2015
ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS
ACCORHOTELS: OVER 2,000 NEW ROOMS IN MECCA
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Signing event
he project will include six hotels from four international groups, offering close to 5,000 units in total. The AccorHotels cluster will comprise Novotel, Adagio and ibis Styles branded establishments with 2,354 rooms, and is expected to be completed in 2019. “Our ambitions for AccorHotels in Saudi Arabia as a whole are extremely high; we are carrying out an important expansion strategy, aiming to more than triple the number of our operational hotels across the Kingdom […] to reach 50 within the next five years,” stressed JeanJacques Dessors, chief operating officer, Mediterranean, Middle East and Africa, AccorHotels.
Carlson Rezidor Joins Mecca Complex
Mecca
AccorHotels entered into three management agreements with Al Rajhi Investment Group for a trio-cluster of properties in Mecca’s new mega complex in Al Naseem.
Shaza Hotels to Add to Saudi Properties
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arlson Rezidor Hotel Group is the latest company to sign up for Mecca’s upcoming mega complex in Al Nassem that will feature a total of six hotels. Scheduled to welcome its first guests in June 2016, Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Al Naseem will comprise 463 rooms, a restaurant, two meeting rooms, a retail area with 18 outlets and a male and female gym. Wolfgang Neumann, president, The Rezidor Hotel Group, described Saudi Arabia as a focus country which is expected to play an increasingly important role in the Middle East’s tourism industry.
21 NOVEMBER 2015
Shaza Riyadh
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haza Hotels has teamed up with Al Rahji Holding Group’s investment arm to launch two new projects in Saudi Arabia. Comprising 251 rooms, the new hotel in Mecca is slated for opening within 12 months, while the 205key establishment in Riyadh is due to be unveiled in 2017. “Following the opening of Shaza Al Madina and the signing of Shaza Jeddah, we have been actively searching for the right opportunities to increase our portfolio of hotels in the Kingdom,” admitted Simon Coombs, CEO, Shaza Hotels.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
DoubleTree by Hilton Doha – Old Town
DoubleTree by Hilton Debuts in Qatar
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oubleTree by Hilton Doha – Old Town has opened its doors, marking the brand’s entry into Qatar. As a global commercial capital, Doha is a critical market for the company’s growing footprint in the Middle East, explained John Greenleaf, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton, adding that the property is expected to attract corporate and leisure travellers alike. The 187-unit hotel features flexible meeting and event facilities, various dining and lounge venues, business and fitness centres, a sauna, steam room and a rooftop pool. “We have a strong pipeline in Qatar and are optimistic about the growth of the market,” said Rudi Jagersbacher, president, Middle East and Africa, Hilton Worldwide.
World’s Largest Four Points by Sheraton to Open in Mecca
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tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide is to launch what is hailed to be the largest Four Points by Sheraton branded property, in Mecca’s new mega development in Al Naseem. Scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2016, Four Points by Sheraton Makkah Al Naseem will offer 1,139 rooms, seven food and beverage outlets across 16,000m2, and easy access to the central area through a direct road tunnel. The project will be the company’s first midmarket product in the Holy City.
Ramada Downtown Dubai Eyes New Markets
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ustralia and New Zealand are both on Ramada Downtown Dubai’s radar with the management working on special packages and initiatives to attract more visitors from these long-haul locations. As Samir Arora, general manager, Ramada Downtown Dubai, revealed, although the property’s main source remains the GCC, accounting for 70 percent of business, an average of 10 rooms per day are occupied by guests from Australia and New Zealand. “We are signing new deals with tour operators and their destination management companies [and] offer tailor-made packages such as 24-hour check in,” explained Arora.
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21 NOVEMBER 2015
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai Debuts at ITB Asia
The signing ceremony
Elaf Group Adds Two Hotels in Saudi Arabia
M Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai team at ITB Asia
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laf Group penned a deal with AMAC Investment to manage and operate two new properties, the 158-room Elaf Mashal Al Madina and the 208-unit Elaf Mashal Al Salam, both located in the southwest central area of the Holy Masjid in Medina. “This agreement proves to be both timely and strategic as tourism in the Kingdom continues to flourish,” said Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, president, Elaf Group. “Rest assured that we remain steadfast in our key commitment to provide world-class, excellent services and top-of-the-line facilities to tourists visiting Medina and other regions of the country,” he added.
illennium Airport Hotel Dubai, in a first-ever participation, exhibited its MICE facilities at ITB Asia 2015 in Singapore. Discussing the significance of the Asian market for the property, Hossam Nabil, director of sales and marketing, Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, commented, “We see Asia as an important and growing market for the MICE segment. Therefore, ITB Asia was the perfect platform for us to showcase our unique hospitality to the Asian market. We have recently added seven new meeting rooms to our corporate facilities and will soon announce the opening of our grand ballroom, Al Garhoud, which will help us a lot while approaching MICE companies [...].”
DAMAC Projects Pace towards Completion
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DAMAC Towers by Parammount
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AMAC Esclusiva and DAMAC Tower by Paramount Hotels & Resorts have taken a major step towards opening, with 75 percent of the cladding works now complete. More than 16,000m2 of glass has been installed on the exterior of the two towers with the cladding consisting of reflective glass, aluminium, tri anti-steel panels. The branded project promises the ultimate luxury living experience, with the 100 private apartments in DAMAC Esclusiva designed with interiors by FENDI Casa, while DAMAC Tower by Paramount Hotels & Resorts will feature branded hotel apartments with the feeling and ambience inspired by Paramount Pictures movies over the past century.
21 NOVEMBER 2015
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Emirates Launches New Italian Gateway Passengers flying with Emirates can now travel to four points in Italy following the launch of daily services between Dubai and Bologna.
Did you
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he gateway to Tuscany, Bologna offers inbound travellers easy access to this vibrant tourism and commercial hub. We are confident that our new daily flight will bring economic benefit, trade and investment to the region with demand for direct links to and from the Middle East, Asia and Australasia more prevalent than ever,” commented Thierry Antinori, chief commercial officer, commercial operations, worldwide, Emirates, noting that by deploying a Boeing 777-300ER, Emirates is the only airline to operate a wide-body aircraft to the Italian city.
know. .
tes pera ht o s e flig rat Emi le daily Milan ip a tr me and er vice o s to R a daily e? c i d n n e a to V
Emirates lands in Bologna
Qatar Airways Deepens Ties with JetBlue
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atar Airways and JetBlue have expanded their codeshare partnership, adding 29 new destinations to their operations from Boston Logan International Airport. Effective from March 16, 2016, coinciding with the launch of the Gulf carrier’s daily direct service to Boston, the enhanced connections will allow passengers to continue their journey on JetBlue’s network with a seamless transfer process via both New York and Boston. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “Passengers travelling to Boston on our latest flagship Airbus A350 XWB aircraft will be able to connect onwards to almost 30 JetBlue destinations across the continent.”
Lufthansa to Link Munich and Tehran
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ufthansa revealed plans to fly once again from Munich to Tehran, effective from April 14, 2016. The German airline will operate three weekly flights to the Iranian capital using an Airbus A330-300 aircraft. The new route will complement the carrier’s existing operation to the Middle Eastern destination from Frankfurt and Austrian Airlines’ services from Vienna. “Following the reduction of sanctions and the reactivation of economic ties related to these, we expect a strong increase in demand for business travel. For cultural travellers, Iran will become increasingly interesting as well,” said Thomas Klühr, board member, Lufthansa.
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21 NOVEMBER 2015
WEEKLY NEWS AIR flynas Links Riyadh and Abu Dhabi
Emirates SkyCargo Adds Bologna Services
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bu Dhabi has become flynas’ fourth destination in the GCC following Dubai, Kuwait and Bahrain. The Saudi airline offers five weekly frequencies on the route onboard an Airbus A320 aircraft with a total of 164 seats in a two-class configuration. Bander Al Mohanna, CEO, NAS Holding, described the UAE, where the carrier now operates an average of 40 weekly services, as a key market for the company due to the large number of people travelling between the two countries. The new route further strengthens the Saudi airline’s codeshare partnership with Etihad Airways, which allows flynas to place its flight code on itineraries between Abu Dhabi and 20 destinations around the world.
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ologna is the latest destination to join Emirates SkyCargo’s network. The daily flights to the Italian city are being operated by a Boeing 777300ER, offering 23 tonnes of belly-hold capacity on the first long-haul widebodied service to Bologna, the economic hub of Italy and the entire European continent, as Nabil Sultan, divisional senior vice president, cargo, Emirates, described it. “Because of the lack of wide-bodied aircraft service to the region, many businesses must truck their goods over long distances to reach the closest major airport. With the introduction of Emirates SkyCargo service to Bologna […] businesses in the region will have more efficient channels,” concluded Sultan.
f
Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai (left) in Astana
flydubai Touches Down in Astana
lydubai launched services to Astana, becoming the first Dubai-based carrier to provide a direct link to Kazakhstan’s capital. The low-cost airline operates two weekly flights to the Central Asian destination, its third gateway in the country since its debut over a year ago. “This is an exciting time to launch services to the capital of Kazakhstan as both Astana and Dubai are preparing to host the EXPO in 2017 and 2020, respectively,” pinpointed Jeyhun Efendi, senior vice president, commercial, UAE, Europe, Middle East and CIS, flydubai.
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21 NOVEMBER 2015
WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL Rhythm and Motion at Hard Rock San Diego
Banyan Tree Introduces New Brand
H Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Dhawa Bo’ao
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anyan Tree Hotels & Resorts launched Dhawa, a new casual and contemporary full-service brand that will cater to design-savvy travellers who seek distinctive experiences in unique destinations. The latest addition to the company’s portfolio will welcome its first 307-key property in Bo’ao, China, in March 2016. Dhawa Bo’ao will offer a spa and hot spring facilities, two restaurants, a fitness centre, pool and extensive meeting venues. Dhawa Cayo Las Brujas will open in July 2016 in Cuba, with 516 units, three restaurants, a swimming pool, gym, kids’ club, water sports centre and meeting facilities. Upcoming destinations include Pu’er, Leishan, Luo Yang, Bangkok and Phuket.
ard Rock Cafe International’s music-centred Rhythm and Motion spa treatment has launched at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego’s Rock Spa. The experience takes guests on a rhythmic massage journey as bass vibrations ripple through the table and treble beats come from above, sending pulses through the body and leaving guests feeling energised and invigorated. Each treatment connects the healing power of music with the artistry of massage therapy to provide an all-encompassing sensory rejuvenating experience.
Protea Hotel Edward
New Rooms and MICE Facilities at Protea Hotel Edward
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urban’s Protea Hotel Edward unveiled 30 new units which will be available from December 17. The additions include 26 standard and two family rooms along with two suites. The property has also launched three boardrooms complementing its eight multipurpose venues that can host up to 260 guests for events. “These new rooms are absolutely state-of-the-art, executive-style spaces that lend themselves to a range of uses: from exclusive dinners to private break-away session rooms to small cocktail events. They are kitted out with high-back chairs, [high definition] TVs, drop-down screens and cappuccino machines – making them among the most prestigious venues on offer in Durban,” enthused Danny Bryer, director of sales, marketing and revenue, Protea Hotels. 21 NOVEMBER 2015
RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How has business been at the hotel as compared to previous years? AMMAR HILAL: Sofitel Dubai Downtown is now in its second year of operation. We opened the hotel on May 1, 2014 and the property has enjoyed high occupancy levels ever since, as well as a number of successes, including winning three prestigious awards […]. The hotel’s main markets are Saudi Arabia, GCC, UK, Australia, Germany and France, and we are currently identifying Brazil, China and Africa as emerging markets.
Q & A with
Ammar Hilal
GENERAL MANAGER, SOFITEL DUBAI DOWNTOWN
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the management’s priorities for the coming months?
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How will the anticipated rise in both demand and supply affect hotel performance levels? AMMAR HILAL: Undoubtedly, the competition in Dubai has increased over the past few years as more properties are entering the market. In this highly competitive space, each hotel has to showcase its unique selling points, the teams need to be on top of their game and the service levels need to be at the highest standards. Competition ushers all of us to be at our best every day. In the five-star hotel industry, only those who are consistent in their service standards and who deliver the brand experience they promise their guests, will [excel] in both occupancy and revenue. Overall, those in the hotel industry believe there will be a decline in average daily rate (ADR) over the next 12 to 18 months. However, I strongly feel the new and continual tourism projects will drive further demand to the destination. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: By 2020, Dubai’s total hotel room count is set to reach 140,000 – 160,000 units with around 20 percent of these targeting the midmarket sector. How will this shift affect Dubai’s profile? AMMAR HILAL: With a vibrant combination of culture and dynamism, Dubai is an amazing city and looking at what it has achieved over the past 50 years is quite incredible. The team at Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing works hard to promote the destination and identify the communication channels, focussing on existing and emerging markets. 21 NOVEMBER 2015
Like in any other city in the world, everyone should have the opportunity to visit Dubai. Introducing more rooms for the midmarket sector will enrich the country in many ways and provide longterm benefits to all sectors of the economy. I do not believe this will reduce Dubai’s glamour, exciting offerings and amazing architectural wonders. We would not seek to drastically alter our strategy or target markets, as our key audience will remain the same.
AMMAR HILAL: This fall [marked] the launch of new restaurant and bar concepts at Sofitel Dubai Downtown. We are offering visitors and residents a culinary destination with many cuisines on offer within the heart of Downtown Dubai. Furthermore, our very successful lounge has recently been refurbished
“
NEW AND CONTINUAL TOURISM PROJECTS WILL DRIVE FURTHER DEMAND TO THE DESTINATION WITH ROOM SUPPLY EXPANDING AT AN EXPONENTIAL RATE, HOTELIERS IN DUBAI HAVE TO BE ON TOP OF THEIR GAME, ACCORDING TO AMMAR HILAL, GENERAL MANAGER, SOFITEL DUBAI DOWNTOWN, WHO SHARES HIS VIEWS ON THE MARKET’S CURRENT CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES.
Sofitel Dubai Downtown
to have a more organic, elegant look and feel, with unbeatable views of downtown and the iconic Burj Khalifa. Al Jazira Chez Louis is a branch of the popular, well-known restaurant from Lebanon, which specialises in quality Mediterranean seafood. Wakame offers a culinary experience like no other, transporting guests to the Far East, where a team of expert chefs perform behind the sushi and dim sum bars. Inka welcomes guests to feast on a variety of pallet teasing delights on a culinary journey through Peru. With a colonial and chic design, Inka boasts an unobstructed view of the majestic Burj Khalifa with the hustle and bustle of Downtown Dubai surrounding it. By the end of the year we will bring more to the table as we welcome a French-inspired restaurant and an exciting new nightlife destination.
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL Conrad Introduces Inspirational Stays
The Maldives
RIU to Enter the Maldives
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IU Hotels & Resorts has embarked on a new project which will make it the first Spanish hotel chain with presence in the Maldives. The company purchased the islets of Kedhigandu and Maafushi which will host a 174-key Riu Palace and a 248-unit Riu Classic. The EUR140 million (USD149 millions) development is currently in the design phase and the hotels are scheduled to open in 2018. The new project will serve as a platform for the company’s future growth in Asia which will kick off in July 2016 with the launch of Riu Hotel Sri Lanka.
onrad Hotels & Resorts has launched Stay Inspired, a global initiative that marks a cultural shift in hospitality and overhauls the way the brand trains its team members as storytellers of their destinations. The hotelier now offers guests seeking inspired familiarity a more customised and curated experience through the Conrad Concierge mobile application and at the initiative’s website. John Vanderslice, global head, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, noted, “Today’s luxury traveller wants to discover destinations where they can be truly inspired. So we are shifting how not only our concierges communicate and connect with our guests, but all of our team members.”
St. Regis Mumbai
St. Regis Debuts in South Asia
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tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide officially launched St. Regis Mumbai, marking the brand’s entry into India and south Asia. The 395-unit hotel is located in Lower Parel in the city’s most premium commercial, residential and entertainment district, boasting butler services, nine restaurants, bars and nightlife destinations, spa, fitness centre, outdoor swimming pool, professional salon and over 3,900m2 of private event space across two levels. Jim Petrus, global brand leader, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, noted, “We are uniquely positioned to cater to the needs of a new generation of luxury travellers, offering a personalised experience informed by the brand’s legacy.”
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21 NOVEMBER 2015
WHO'S MOVED
SARAH HAZIM
Sarah Hazim has assumed the role of director of conferences and events at InterContinental Muscat. Hazim, who previously held various sales and food and beverage roles with hotel brands and private companies, has eight years of experience. She started her career with Sofitel in France and in 2008 she moved to Lebanon to work at InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut. She then continued as food and beverage consultant and brand manager for restaurants before joining Rotana City Center Doha and later ART Rotana Bahrain.
Hazim started her career with Sofitel in France
JAOUAD SBIHI
21 NOVEMBER 2015
NICK CAREEN
Nick Careen has assumed the position of senior vice president for airport, passenger, cargo and security at the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Prior to his appointment, Careen built his career in Air Canada and its subsidiary Jazz where his last role was Air Canada’s vice president for airport, call centres and customer relations, a position he held from 2013 to 2014. He brings comprehensive experience in flight and airport operations, human resource management and government relations to the post. With nearly 25 years in the industry, Careen is considered well-placed to drive programmes such as Fast Travel, eAir Waybill and Smart Security.
Jaouad Sbihi has been named director of business development at Raffles Dubai. With a proven track record, Sbihi will oversee the sales and marketing activities of the property. He has more than 14 years of experience in the industry, of which eight years have been with Raffles Dubai. He first joined the hotel in 2007 as part of the pre-opening team as sales manager. One year later, Sbihi was swiftly promoted to senior sales manager followed by a move to the role of assistant director of sales. In 2011, he took on the position of director of sales handling the corporate segment, heading up consortia and luxury travel in the Americas and Europe. Sbihi’s constant drive and successful performance over the years also earned him the role of director of sales and marketing at FRHI Hotels & Resorts in Qatar.
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TRAVEL TALK
Our [half year] top-line figures were hit hard
H. H. SHEIKH AHMED BIN SAEED AL MAKTOUM CEO, Emirates
“Our [half year] top-line figures were hit hard by the strong US Dollar against other major currencies. The currency exchange situation, combined with ongoing regional conflict and weak economic outlook in many parts of the world, dampened the positive impact of lower fuel prices […]. However, we made a calculated decision not to hedge our fuel purchases, which paid off [...]. Emirates also made the decision to pass on savings from the lower fuel prices to our customers by cutting passenger fuel surcharges, and lowering fares across the network.”
Our effort is to reach the highest international standards
H.E. KHALID JASIM AL MIDFA Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA)
“SCTDA’s participation in international exhibitions and events is focussed on strengthening the emirate’s tourism industry in the global markets and promoting the major development projects adopted by the authority to enhance the tourism experience. Our effort is to reach the highest international standards in the tourism sector by offering outstanding services and facilities that keep pace with the expectation of the visitors, especially families.”
Taking care of guests is our core business
GORDON MACKENZIE General manager, Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha
“It is a great honour to attain the first Safehotels Premium Certificate by Safehotels Alliance in Qatar. Serving and taking care of guests is our core business. Safety and security is the base of that core, and having an independent certification confirms that our foundation complies with a solid, internationally recognised standard.”
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:
Mohamed Khaleel
POSITION:
Managing director
COMPANY:
Reollo Travel
LOCATION:
Maldives
WEBSITE:
www.reollo.travel
When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? I grew up with a family heavily involved in the Maldivian tourism sector, and this is where I got the inspiration from. [...] Despite having spent over two decades working in this field, my desire to pursue even more spectacular endeavours in the tourism industry remains undiminished. What are the most important attributes of a good travel agent/tour operator? Reliability. Being able to depend on them, trust them and rely on them to ensure that everything is taken care of to the last detail. […] Adaptability and continuous evolution [is also crucial]. [...] In order to survive, it is important for companies to constantly keep an eye out for new trends and evolve to adapt to the changes. What is the most frequently asked question that your company receives from customers? Transfer arrangements. As there are a number of options available in the Maldives, they often inquire whether they need boats, domestic planes or seaplanes to get to the islands. Another area of inquiry are the meal plans. Unlike other countries, guests do not have access to independently-owned restaurants or cafés where they can go during their stay. […] What are the must-visits and must-dos in the Maldives that no one should miss? Featuring some of the best dive spots in the world, including a UNESCO biosphere reserve, a trip to the Maldives is never complete without going for a dive. [...] Also, experience the thrill of deep sea fishing on a local Dhoni. Visit Male or a local fishing village. Experience the Maldives beyond the frills of the resorts. The best way to truly discover a destination is by immersing yourself with the locals and exploring their culture and traditions beyond the comfort of your hotels. [...] 21 NOVEMBER 2015
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Cooking Oil Turns into Biodiesel in Ajman
Oman’s Nizwa Fort Returns
Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman and Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman have teamed up with Provectus to launch an initiative to convert used cooking oil into biodiesel.
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he accommodation establishments will ensure access to the experts to collect cooking oil waste generated from the kitchens, restaurants as well as staff accommodation, which will then be processed to 100 percent biodegradable biodiesel. “The two properties generate 4,350 gallons of cooking oil waste in a year and through this, we can produce clean diesel and cut down on carbon dioxide emission, from materials which are initially considered as waste,” revealed Iftikhar Hamdani, cluster general manager, Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman and Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman.
Nizwa Fort
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Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman’s team
he Ministry of Tourism of Oman in cooperation with the country’s Ministry of Heritage and Culture reopened Nizwa fort in the A’Dakhiliyah governorate. The attraction is available to visitors, private bodies and tour operators. Hailed as the Sultanate’s most visited national monument, the fort was built in the 17th century, although its underlying structure dates back five more centuries.
Oryx Rotana Marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Oryx Rotana, Doha
I
n a bid to raise awareness of the importance of recognising the symptoms of breast cancer, Oryx Rotana, Doha organised a staff gathering. Employees were briefed about the significance of regular checkups and early detection of the disease as well as about the available treatment methods. The hotel’s chefs then prepared special meals for the attendees who all wore pink ribbons to help bring attention to the cause and contribute to the property’s social endeavours.
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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...
Emirates’ first two-class configured Airbus A380 received a visit from H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler, Dubai at the Dubai Airshow
Rotana was named Hospitality Company of the Year at the Arabian Business Achievement Awards
Hilton Worldwide celebrated the arrival of its Hilton Garden Inn brand in the UAE with the unveiling of an edible Dubai skyline created using waffles
UAE National Flag Day celebrations at Coral Beach Resort Sharjah
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham, Dubai celebrated World Teachers' Day
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WEEKLY NEWS & EVENTS NEWS XX BAC Stages Decision-making Event
B
ahrain Airport Company (BAC) played host to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)’s seminar on airport collaborative decision making (A-CDM) at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain. The first of its kind programme organised by ICAO in the Middle East focussed on the relatively new concept of A-CDM which aims to improve air traffic flow and capacity management at airports by reducing delays, advancing the predictability of events and optimising the utilisation of resources.
Abu Dhabi Showcases 100 Products
EVENTS SAUDI INTERNATIONAL HOTEL TECH EXHIBITION Riyadh, Saudi Arabia November 30 – December 02 www.saudihoteltechexpo.com The show brings together hotel equipments, security procedures, interior and exterior providers and information technologists.
INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET (ILTM) Cannes, France November 30 – December 03 www.iltm.com ILTM is luxury travel’s flagship event, where international agents and advisors meet the world’s luxury travel experiences.
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bu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) promoted almost 100 products at World Travel Market (WTM), many of which are new to the market. These included hotels, resorts, attractions, tour operators and destination management companies. “The UK remains the leading European market for visitors to Abu Dhabi with guest arrivals rising 16 percent year-onyear to 142,134, […],” said Mubarak Al Nuaimi, director promotions and overseas offices, TCA Abu Dhabi.
4TH GLOBAL SUMMIT ON CITY TOURISM Marrakech, Morocco December 14 – 15 www.unwto.org International experts in city tourism, representatives of local authorities, municipalities and international and regional associations will discuss challenges and create a platform for the exchange of ideas.
3RD ANNUAL AFRICA HOTEL EXPANSION SUMMIT Lagos, Nigeria January 28 – 29, 2016 africa.hotelandresortsummit.com For the third consecutive year, Noppen is organising the Africa Hotel Expansion Summit, bringing together hotel chains, developers and architects with hospitality institutions.
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