26 DECEMBER 2015
ISSUE 320
DUBAI MEDICAL TOURISM SETS THE BAR HIGH HAVING ALREADY ESTABLISHED ITS PRESENCE IN THE UAE, CITYMAX HOTELS IS EXPANDING INTERNATIONALLY WITH ITS FIRST PROJECT IN EGYPT SCHEDULED TO OPEN IN THE COMING YEARS.
03 QATAR AIRWAYS HEADS TO NAGPUR
12 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE
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ACCOMMODATION
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AIR
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INTERNATIONAL
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RENDEZVOUS
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WHO'S MOVED
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TRAVEL TALK
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AGENT CORNER
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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PHOTO ALBUM
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NEWS & EVENTS
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CITYMAX GOES GLOBAL
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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
Middle East Hoteliers Challenged in October Demand for accommodation across the region dropped notably in October, leading to a 4.6 percent decrease in occupancy.
ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba CONTRIBUTOR Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian Inna Armeanu DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA EXCHANGE RATES As of
24/12/2015
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
107.11
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.82
Iran (IRR)
Rial
30,114.89
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,107.06
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,508.56
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.39
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.90
Syria (SYP)
Pound
188.81
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.03
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.89
2
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ased on STR Global’s report, average daily rate (ADR) plummeted 12.3 percent to USD200.66, while RevPAR was down 16.3 percent to USD135.24. In Qatar, supply increased 5.5 percent – the highest monthly growth for the country since May 2013 – as a result, occupancy and RevPAR both fell 6.2 percent. The UAE also experienced double-digit declines in ADR and RevPAR as the 5.1 percent supply expansion outpaced the 4.4 percent rise in demand. It is noteworthy that the shift of Eid Al Adha from October 2014 also negatively affected year-on-year comparisons.
Orascom Enjoys Revenue Growth Orascom Development Holding recorded a 33.3 percent increase in revenues and a 219.3 percent surge in adjusted earning before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) for the first nine months of the year, over the corresponding timeframe in 2014.
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uring the period under study, hotels registered a notable 52.8 percent rise in adjusted EBITDA which reached CHF13.6 million (USD13.34 million), and the company signed a new land sub-development agreement in Egypt for CHF19.1 million (USD18.74 million). Total real estate sales grew 51.5 percent to CHF83.3 million (USD81.71 million) versus CHF55 million (USD54 million) during the same period in 2014. 26 DECEMBER 2015
WEEKLY NEWS
Dubai Medical Tourism Sets the Bar High
now k u o y Did
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urism al to erate c i d Me to gen on li t is se 2.6 bil llion) D E mi A ? 708 y 2020 D S U b ( i a ub in D
Demand for medical treatments, especially cosmetic dentistry, is said to be three times greater in Dubai than in Lebanon.
A Dr Ihab William
ccording to Dr Ihab William, director, Dr William’s Dental Center, although getting the Hollywood smile in the emirate can cost double of that in the Levant country, the UAE hotspot continues to gain popularity as a medical tourism destination, especially among Saudi, Qatari, Kuwaiti, Bahraini and Jordanian patients. Dubai Health Authority aims to attract some 500,000 medical tourists by 2020, up from 107,000 in 2012.
UAE Welcomes Fresh Concierge Concept
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n innovate new website, myconcierge.com has entered the UAE market. The Dubai-based site bridges the gap between actual and virtual concierge services for those seeking the very best experiences at the most competitive prices. Currently available for residents and visitors to the UAE, there are plans to franchise the brand to other destinations. Rob Nicholas, founder, myconcierge.com, noted, “We saw a landscape filled with a glut of travel websites, applications and destinationbased information online and on the other we saw a clamour of high-end concierge companies offering membership-based services. There was nothing in the middle.� A designated application will also be launched in January 2016 to offer services in Arabic, Mandarin and Russian.
26 DECEMBER 2015
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WEEKLY NEWS WTTC: Governments Need Coherent Tourism Development
TripAdvisor Unveils New Offering
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overnments that adopt a fully coordinated approach to developing travel and tourism policies are the most successful in maximising economic and social potential, according to World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)’s Governing National Tourism Policy report. David Scowsill, president, WTTC, highlighted that the industry drives almost 10 percent of the global GDP, but suffers from a lack of coordination between ministries and agencies. “This results in conflicting policy decisions – such as protecting […] national carriers instead of promoting open skies access to markets; funding promotional campaigns, whilst not facilitating visa automation; imposing unfair taxes on departing airline passengers, whilst not investing in necessary long term infrastructure – […] a completely incoherent approach to tourism governance and commerce,” he noted.
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ripAdvisor has launched a travel timeline feature to its mobile application to help travellers log and share experiences from their trips. Once activated, the tool automatically creates a timeline of the places the user has visited and the photos taken at each location, which can be viewed in chronological order or as a route on a map. The feature is private to the user, but travellers can choose to share it with family and friends. Adam Medros, senior vice president, global product, TripAdvisor, noted, “TripAdvisor not only helps travellers plan and book their trips, but with travel timeline we help our community document and share them too.”
26 DECEMBER 2015
WEEKLY NEWS XX KHC Invests USD52 Million in Euro Disney now k u o y Did
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ted dona ion in C H K ill blish 20 m USD to esta of 5 200 e centre t The th rt a ic A Islam Louvre?
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ingdom Holding Company (KHC), owner of a 10 percent share in Euro Disney, injected over USD52 million as part of the French company’s financial reconstructing and recapitalisation. Earlier in October, the Saudi company, represented by H.R.H. Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud, chairman, KHC, announced that French Sovereign Fund and leading French companies will acquire USD150 million of KHC shares. KHC has significant investments in the European country. It owns Four Seasons Hotel George V and manages Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris; Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat in South France; and seven hotels in Euro Disney. It is also present through Citigroup.
Prince Alwaleed’s grandchildren at Euro Disney
Saudi Entertainment Sector: Over 87,000 Jobs
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y year-end, the number of positions supported by the entertainment segment in Saudi Arabia is set to reach 87,083, with the figure expected to soar to 99,779 by the end of 2017 as new projects continue to pop up across the Kingdom. According to the Tourism Information and Research Center of the Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage, the volume of direct job opportunities in the tourism industry exceeded 795,000 until 2014, and by the end of the year, the number is set to surpass 840,000. By 2020, this figure will surge to almost 1.7 million. Currently, tourism represents the second most important economic segment in the Kingdom with a Saudisation rate of over 28 percent.
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26 DECEMBER 2015
WEEKLY NEWS Elaf Promotes Saudi Tourism
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KHC to Foster Real Estate Venture
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linma Investment and Jeddah Economic Company (JEC), co-founded by Kingdom Holding Company (KHC), penned a SAR8.4 billion (USD2.24 billion) real estate fund agreement, to be named Alinma Jeddah Economic City Fund. Initially, its purpose will be to develop the first phase of the Jeddah Economic City project and finish construction works on Jeddah Tower as well as a number of developments within the scheme. H.R.H. Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud, chairman, Kingdom Holding Company, noted that the primary purpose of Jeddah Economic City is to provide a state-ofthe-art living, working and entertainment environment for its community to enjoy a unique way of life.
Signing of the fund agreement
26 DECEMBER 2015
Elaf Group delegation
n a bid to promote Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, particularly for religious purposes, Elaf Group conducted tours to Egypt, Turkey, Morocco, Indonesia, Tunisia and the UK. During the visits, the company’s marketing team recognised travel agents for their contributions during the Umrah and Hajj seasons. The group’s endeavours come at a time when the Kingdom’s Ministry of Hajj forecasts the number of Hajj pilgrims to rise to five million and the volume of Umrah performers to reach 20 million in five years’ time.
Big Bus Wheels into Al Ain
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ig Bus Tours launched operation in Al Ain, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the oasis city’s main attractions from the comfort of open-top sightseeing vehicles. The full panoramic day tour includes eight key landmarks, such as Al Qattara, Hili Fort, Hili Tomb,
Qasr Al Muwaiji, National Museum, Al Ain Palace and Al Jahili Fort. Passengers will also enjoy free entry to museums and forts as well as a lunch. Al Ain is the company’s fifth addition to its regional portfolio after Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Muscat.
Mall of Qatar Takes on Cannes
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five-star shopping mall in the making, Mall of Qatar showcased its scale and grandeur during MAPIC, the real estate show held at Palais des Festivals in Cannes. The shopping centre, slated to launch in August 2016, highlighted the opportunities available at the destination to over 8,000 delegates. Hailed as the first-of-its-kind mall in the region, entertainment will be at the heart of the centre’s offering with its own residency performing troupe, a 5,000m2 domed diverse space with a revolving stage and a pond of dancing water fountains.
Mall of Qatar in Cannes
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WEEKLY NEWS Aviation Professionals Share AACO Platform
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GTAC Addresses Climate Change
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lobal Travel Association Coalition (GTAC) members reiterated the industry’s commitment to fight climate change at the United Nations Framework on Climate Change annual Conference of Parties, COP 21, held in Paris. David Scowsill, chairman, GTAC, commented, “Over one billion people cross international borders each year, a number expected to reach 1.8 billion by 2030. This growth […] will bring about enormous social and economic development across the world […]. We have a serious responsibility to ensure that we decouple the growth of the sector from its impact on our environment to ensure that tourism can continue to contribute to socio-economic inclusiveness and development in the long term.”
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Jeddah Hilton Hotel
he Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO) held its 48th annual general meeting at Jeddah Hilton Hotel between November 29 – December 1. The event, which gathered over 300 Arab and global aviation industry experts, hosted an opening ceremony, followed by working sessions on its second day which featured AACO’s report on the state of the sector as well as speeches by thought leaders pertaining to the overall industry. In addition, a closed session took place for the organisation’s members to discuss and decide on internal and administrative issues.
ICAO Addresses Aviation Concerns
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he 36-state governing council of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) adopted a formal declaration stating that it would ensure continuous leadership on environmental issues relating to the global civil aviation. In its statement, the council reiterated the need for the organisation and its members to express a serious concern on the use of aviation as a potential source for the mobilisation of revenue for climate finance for other sectors in a disproportionate manner. Furthermore, ICAO gathered over 800 ministers and senior officials from its member states, the United Nations and other international organisations at the first-ever ICAO World Aviation Forum to part-take in a series of discussions on sustainable aviation development, tourism growth and other air transport concerns.
26 DECEMBER 2015
ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS
Westin Arrives in Egypt
The Westin Soma Bay Golf Resort & Spa
The Westin Soma Bay Golf Resort & Spa has opened its doors, marking the brand’s debut in Egypt.
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ituated at the highest point of the Soma Bay peninsula at the country’s Red Sea Riviera and at the centre of an 18-hole championship golf course, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide’s 11th property in Egypt boasts 166 rooms and suites and a 7,400m2 Cascades Spa & Thalasso with 65 treatment rooms. As Michael Wale, president, Europe, Africa and Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, noted, the opening further reiterates the success of the company’s conversion-friendly strategy and the agility to have independent hotels quickly and efficiently join the system.
Fairmont Expands into North Africa
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airmont Hotels & Resorts and Abu Dhabi-based private real estate investment company Eagle Hills teamed up to develop a new luxury hotel in Morocco. Scheduled to open in 2019, the 200-key Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Salé will take shape in a coastal mixed-use development, strategically located between the capital and the ancient city of Salé. Guests will also benefit from 90 Fairmont-branded residences, ample meeting space, a range of restaurants, a spa, fitness facilities and an array of leisure options. 14 FEBRUARY 2015 The luxury hotelier will open four projects in the region in 2016 in Amman, Fujairah, Riyadh and Sharm El Sheikh.
La Marina Morocco
26 DECEMBER 2015
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION ACCOMMODATION
CITYMAX GOES GLOBAL Having already established its presence in the UAE, Citymax Hotels is expanding internationally with its first project in Egypt scheduled to open in the coming years.
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Signing ceremony
ocated in Alexandria’s Hayat Alex Park, the 10-floor property will be launched in partnership with Marseilia Real Estate Investment. Besides 156 rooms and 46 apartments, Citymax Hotel Alexandria will feature a ballroom, two restaurants and meeting and recreational facilities. “Since 2008, we have experienced tremendous growth in the UAE and have carved a niche for ourselves as a brand that meets the needs of the modern, price-conscious traveller,” commented Russel Sharpe, chief operating officer, Citymax Hotels.
Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Turns to Businessmen
Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun
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n a bid to maintain healthy performance levels, Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun will focus on the business and MICE sectors over the coming months. As Mohamad Zein, director of sales, Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun, disclosed, the Iraqi and Turkish markets look particularly promising. In order to convey a positive message and lure visitors back to Lebanon, active participation in international travel and trade fairs is also crucial, added Zein.
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Monroe Hotel Expands Market Reach
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ollowing a major renovation project, Monroe Hotel, Beirut looks to attract visitors from a broader range of source markets. As Elizabeth Shahinian, marketing and communications executive, Monroe Hotel, Beirut, explained, the top targets include Iraq, Turkey, Jordan, North African countries, China, as well as selected European locations. As Shahinian noted, over the past years, Lebanon’s nationality mix as well as average length of stay have significantly changed, yet the management is determined to offer the best possible services and maintain the destination’s image.
26 DECEMBER 2015
ACCOMMODATION WEEKLY NEWS Oryx Rotana Manager Meets the Press
Staybridge Suites Beirut to Attract MICE Business
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xtended stay and MICE business are on the rise in Lebanon, according to Ihab Kanawati, general manager, Staybridge Suites Beirut. As Kanawati explained, in order to cater to the growing demand, the hotel has recently established a meeting room equipped with the latest technology that can accommodate up to 40 seated guests. With its distinct offering, the Staybridge Suites brand, part of InterContinental Hotels Group’s portfolio, mainly appeals to long-stay visitors, pinpointed Kanawati, saying that this unique product has also enabled the property to maintain a diverse nationality mix.
Staybridge Suites Beirut
ark Timbrell, the newly appointed general manager of Oryx Rotana, Doha, revealed the management’s current and future plans aimed at further strengthening the hotel’s position. Addressing the local media for the first time in his new role, Timbrell said, “Due to substantial economic growth, Doha is poised to be the hub for international conventions and exhibitions. I joined the administration of Oryx Rotana in Doha due to several factors, one of them is the fact that the hotel has achieved great success locally and internationally. The hotel has positioned itself as a prime destination to businessmen and is also by far the most popular hotel among all segments of the society.”
Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre Reimagined
26 DECEMBER 2015
Longitude 50
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ajid Al Futtaim and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide revealed the refreshed Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre following an extensive transformation of all rooms and public areas as well as the introduction of new concepts and outlets. The hotel now also features Longitude 50, a reinterpreted lobby café concept, and Art Link, a gallery-like corridor between the property and the entrance of City Centre Bahrain. Daniel van Der Heijden, hotel manager, Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre, commented, “Our main goal is to ensure that this hotel is the ultimate hub for culture seekers and curious travellers. We want all our guests to have an inspiring stay while visiting the island.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR ACCOMMODATION
Qatar Airways Heads to Nagpur Qatar Airways now operates over 100 weekly flights to India following the launch of daily nonstop services between Doha and Nagpur.
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Emirates Flight Catering: Strong Presence at Dubai South
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ubai South and Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) signed an agreement for the provisioning of exclusive offerings for private aviation. Under the deal, EKFC will build a state-of-the-art facility with exclusivity in providing in-flight catering and support services to private and business flights operating at the airport. “Traditionally, the demands of business aviation passengers for food are highly bespoke and catering companies are unable to meet these very specific requirements,” pinpointed Khalifa AlZaffin, executive chairman, Dubai Aviation City Corporation, the parent organisation of Dubai South, further noting that EKFC’s appointment is in line with the expected business aviation traffic and the vision of creating a world-class aviation hub.
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Nagpur
major trade and business centre, Nagpur is the airline’s 13th destination in India. The Qatari carrier deploys a two-class Airbus A320 on the route, which, according to Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, underscores the growing demand for air travel between the locations. “Qatar Airways is proud of the fact that we serve more destinations in India than any other country in our network,” added Al Baker.
Oman Air Provides Pilot Training
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man Air’s drive to recruit Omani pilots is bearing fruit, as 21 local candidates joined its Cadet Training Programme. The initiative was launched earlier this year in a bid to expand opportunities for Omani nationals and involves an initial 18-month flight training in France, followed by a rating course which eventually qualifies them to join the airline’s flight crew. Paul Gregorowitsch, CEO, Oman Air, commented, “[…] It is vital that we offer employment and career progression opportunities for as many young Omanis as possible. These new pilots [...] represent an investment not just in the future of Oman Air, but also in the future of our nation.”
26 DECEMBER 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 AIR Oman Air Continues Supporting SMEs
Emirates Mobile Site Now in Arabic
Panel discussion during the event
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man Air reiterated its support for local small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by participating in the Oman SME Summit. The event, which aimed to reinvigorate the SME market, considered the rules and regulations which apply to such companies in Oman, their contribution to the national economy and the importance of training prior to setting up the enterprises. “SMEs are essential to the growth and sustainability of Oman’s economy over the coming years. It was therefore very satisfying to have played a role in raising awareness of the vast potential that SMEs hold for Oman’s future success,” commented Paul Gregorowitsch, CEO, Oman Air.
mirates introduced an Arabic version of its mobile platform, allowing customers across MENA to book, check-in online, change or upgrade their flights and receive their boarding pass. The site, which also enables passengers to download Apple Passbook boarding passes, was rolled out simultaneously across 15 countries in the region, including the GCC, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco and others. As Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, divisional senior vice president, commercial operations centre, Emirates, noted, mobile device penetration in MENA is steadily growing and traffic has been particularly strong from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt and Lebanon.
Fiji Airways Crosses One Million Mark
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iji Airways celebrated its one millionth passenger onboard this year, crossing the milestone for the second year in its history after 2014. Exceeding 100,000 travellers in one month was another historic moment for the carrier as in October, a total of 101,183 persons opted for the airline’s services, marking the second time to date with six-digit numbers for a single month after July.
Qatar Airways Halts Osaka Operations
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atar Airways will suspend its nonstop service between Doha and Osaka. The airline cited commercial reasons behind the decision which will come into effect after March 31, 2016. In the meantime, from January 12, 2016, the carrier will serve the Japanese destination five times a week, down from the currently offered daily frequencies. Nevertheless, flights to Tokyo will remain unaffected. The Gulf airline first started flying to Osaka in March 2005.
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26 DECEMBER 2015
INTERNATIONAL WEEKLY NEWS Largest Manmade Lagoon to Be Built in India
Hyatt Place Cleveland/Westlake/Crocker Park
Dream City project
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rystal Lagoons is poised to expand its global presence by launching its first project in India; a 6.5ha manmade lagoon, hailed as the biggest of its kind in the country. Located at the heart of Pune’s Dream City, currently under development, the mixed-use community will feature a crystalline lagoon for recreational activities and a means of transport via water taxis. The 100ha destination, which will be home to some 50,000 people, will also cater to a burgeoning tourism market and the city’s four million inhabitants with a five-star hotel, marine club, multiple restaurants, malls and multiplexes.
Cleveland Welcomes Second Hyatt Place
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yatt Place Cleveland/Westlake/Crocker Park officially opened in Ohio, marking the second Hyatt Place hotel to enter the Cleveland metropolitan area. The 110-room property is the only accommodation establishment integrated within Crocker Park, the region’s premier lifestyle development, and boasts several dining options, a 74m2 hightech meeting space, and a 24-hour fitness centre. Todd Lentz, general manager, Hyatt Place Cleveland/Westlake/Crocker Park, enthused, “The quality and service that the Hyatt Place brand exemplifies will be a perfect complement to Crocker Park and a welcome addition to the community.”
Rosewood Luang Prabang
Rosewood to Offer Stays in Untapped Territory
26 DECEMBER 2015
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osewood Hotels and Resorts assumed management of Rosewood Luang Prabang in Laos, Cambodia, due to open in 2017. Located close to the historic city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the resort is completely immersed within a virtually untouched natural environment, and features 22 villas and five luxury tents. The 100m2 tents, with their own private dining areas and wrap-around decks, will be a first for the hotelier. Elements inspired by local tradition and French colonial style will be woven throughout the property, from design and architecture to use of indigenous materials.
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL Autograph Collection Hotels Arrives in Haiti
Wyndham Enhances Chinese Portfolio
A Habitation Jouissant rendering
Wyndham Sanya Bay
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yndham Hotel Group further deepened its footprint in China with the opening of Wyndham Sanya Bay, a debut in the city for the brand. The 401-key hotel is situated along the longest coastal stretch in the region and within Sanya’s sole business locations, Leaguer Moho Plaza, ideally positioning it to serve both business and leisure guests. It boasts a spa with a 700m2 waterside pavilion, a 2,500m2 swimming pool, a hot spring pond, fitness centre, a 500m2 kids’ club, a 1,000m2 grand ballroom, four function rooms, a business centre and two restaurants.
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he Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has partnered with YTL Hotels to develop two properties in Asia, The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui in Thailand and Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Niseko Village, Japan. The Thai project will be developed in the region of Plai Laem, featuring 187 rooms and pool villas, as well as dining, wellness and recreational facilities. The 50-unit ski-in-ski-out Ritz-Carlton Reserve will be the first in Japan, scheduled for completion in 2020, and will be located at the heart of Niseko Village, hailed as one of the world’s best ski resorts. During summer, a diverse range of outdoor recreation will be on offer.
Best Western Enters Bandung
Best Western Premier La Grande Hotel
Koh Samui
Ritz-Carlton Expands in Asia Pacific
utograph Collection Hotels will elevate its Caribbean portfolio with a new boutique property in Haiti, Habitation Jouissant, in late 2017. Located in Cap Haitien, the country’s second largest city, the hotel will undergo an extensive revamp to add 87 guestrooms to its 13 already established suites. Upon completion, it will boast a new presidential suite, two restaurants, two pools, a fitness centre and meeting rooms. Julius Robinson, vice president, Autograph Collection Hotels, enthused, “As we approach welcoming our 100th property by early [2016], we know Habitation Jouissant will bring both a unique and culturally rich perspective to the portfolio when it joins in 2017.”
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est Western Hotels & Resorts debuted in Indonesia’s third largest city, Bandung, with a new upscale hotel. The 193-room Best Western Premier La Grande Hotel, which opened on December 1, is nestled in the heart of the destination and boasts eight meeting rooms, a business centre, spa, heated swimming pool and a fully-equipped fitness centre. Olivier Berrivin, managing director, international operations, Asia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, commented, “Indonesia is one of the world’s most exciting emerging markets, and as the country’s third largest city, Bandung is becoming a major hub for domestic and international business and leisure travel.” 26 DECEMBER 2015
RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: HMH’s UAE portfolio includes four properties; two in Dubai, one in Sharjah and one in Ajman. How have these hotels performed year to date? LAURENT VOIVENEL: The performance of all our hotels in the UAE has been in line with the market conditions – be it in Dubai, Sharjah or Ajman. While the latest financial results for our properties have been superb in Sharjah and Ajman, hotels in Dubai have been a little subdued compared to previous years and this is mainly due to various factors impacting the tourism industry, not only regionally but globally. The unexpected drop in oil prices and the weakening of the Euro have adversely impacted tourist numbers as has the oversupply in hotel sector with new supply coming on stream. Despite challenging market conditions, recording the highest occupancy, average daily rates (ADR) and RevPAR, Coral Beach Resort Sharjah was the best performing hotel in the city during this Eid Al Adha. […]
Q & A with
Laurent Voivenel CEO, HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT HOLDINGS
26 DECEMBER 2015
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are the next hotels to open under the company’s umbrella? LAURENT VOIVENEL: Development is a key focus for us and we have got some very exciting projects under consideration that are at various stages of negotiation. We definitely want to capitalise on the opportunity presented by Expo 2020 and 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. However, we wish to grow the path according to our strategic plan that is sustainable in a physical sense. It is not only about business opportunities out there, rather our strategy is to drive value over volume. The GCC, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, is central to our growth. By 2020, our goal is to have a hotel in every GCC country while doubling our portfolio in the UAE, and to achieve it we have set in motion a strong pipeline of development. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Halalfriendly hospitality has long been a hallmark of HMH. What are your plans in this regard?
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: With a large number of hotel developments underway in Dubai, how do you see the emirate’s hotel sector evolving over the coming years? LAURENT VOIVENEL: The scale of opportunity in the region for midmarket and budget hotels is unprecedented. Expanding airline network – especially low-cost carriers, increased airport capacity, a growing middle class, emerging source markets, addition of new tourism and family attractions and enhancement of infrastructure are all fuelling the demand for mid-market hotels. Being in Dubai, we are all living the excitement, the dream. Planning and construction is heavily underway with enormous new supply preparations. The Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) estimates the need for 160,000 new rooms by 2020. Multibillion dollar worth of projects are being rolled out. All these new developments are reinvigorating and reshaping the hotel sector. We all know there is a near saturation in the market when it comes to luxury hotels. The market does not need any more luxury hotels at this point. Oversupply of rooms in this
and operating costs and quick and high return on investment. Our aim is to launch the first ECOS in Dubai.
AS THE UAE CONTINUES TO DIVERSIFY ITS ACCOMMODATION OFFERINGS WITH NUMEROUS MIDMARKET AND BUDGET OPTIONS, LAURENT VOIVENEL, CEO, HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT HOLDINGS (HMH), TALKS ABOUT THE HOTEL SECTOR’S FUTURE PATH. segment is putting a tremendous pressure on rates that in turn is affecting return on investment (ROI). However, the same is not the case with midmarket hotels. Given the demand, investors can expect double digit ROI between 10 to 12 percent every year with the right product and the right location. Therefore, every single operator is looking at how they can attract the future market, meaning the market of tomorrow [that being] the mid-
dle class. This is why at HMH, we have three brands out of five targeting the middle class because the middle class that today represents 2.5 billion will, by 2025, represent five billion around the world. ECOS Hotels is a no-frills bed and breakfast brand that ties together a unique economical and ecological concept. It is a smart choice for investors offering strong investment opportunity because of lower construction
LAURENT VOIVENEL: HMH is a key player in the Halal-friendly segment in the Middle East and is the region’s largest group to operate in the dry segment. Being a pioneer in establishing the region’s first alcohol-free chain of hotels, it continues to be the only one to follow Halal-friendly policy across all its brands. At HMH, we are uniquely positioned to capitalise on the Halal segment, having been successful in penetrating it early. Over the years, we have gathered an amazing experience both in terms of operations and market intelligence in the dry hotel segment which is one of our key strengths. Halal-friendly policy is part of the company’s culture and DNA and not simply a business decision. Unlike other companies whose aim is to have a share of the pie by creating standalone dry brands or hotels, all brands under HMH are Halal-friendly no matter where we operate. Our primary objective is to offer our customers, be it corporate or leisure travellers, a safe and healthy environment.
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL Tourism in Seychelles Reaches New Heights
ONYX Adds to Chinese Portfolio
Shama Daqing Heilongjiang rendering
Seychelles
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ccording to Seychelles Tourism Board, October was a record month for the country with 27,477 arrivals, indicating an 18 percent increase over the corresponding month in 2014. The figure is hailed as a vindication of the destination’s tourism strategy of diversifying its source markets in the Middle East, Africa and the Far East, while at the same time continuing to nurture its core areas in Europe. Year-to-date, visitors from France surpassed 31,000, followed by Germany with 30,000 travellers. At the same time, Seychelles’ newer markets also showed strength with numbers from the UAE and China reaching 17,124 and nearly 13,000 guests, respectively.
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NYX Hospitality Group is enhancing its portfolio in China with the recent signings of Amari Yangshou Guilin and Shama Daqing Heilongjiang. Scheduled to open in 2017, the 75-room Amari Yangshou Guilin forms part of an integrated commercial development and will provide guests with easy access to the area’s popular scenic attractions including rivers, caves and temples. Further up north, the 110-unit Shama Daqing Heilongjiang is scheduled to open in late 2016 in the central business district of Daqing. The serviced apartments are set to appeal to the city’s growing petroleum industry, and will include facilities such as a lounge area, fitness and business centre.
Dusit Expands Presence in the Philippines
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Cebu
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usit International has confirmed plans to bring its dusitD2 brand to Cebu in 2019, marking its second development deal with Grand Land Philippines. Located close to the city’s business district, dusitD2 Residence Cebu City will be situated within the developer’s multitower condominium project, Grand Residences Cebu. A separate entrance and lobby will lead guests to the 160 serviced residences, with facilities including an all-day dining restaurant, gym, swimming pool and meeting rooms. Rustom Vickers, vice president, development, Dusit International, commented, “We believe this vibrant brand is well suited to the exciting growth of the area and that Dusit’s signature gracious hospitality will enliven the experience of both guests and residents of the dusitD2 Residence Cebu City.”
26 DECEMBER 2015
WHO'S MOVED
MOHAMMED FARAJAT
DJAMILYA ASHYKOVA
Mohammed Farajat has been appointed general manager at Park Inn by Radisson Al Khobar Hotel. Farajat, who has more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, first joined the group in 1993 as a night checker at Radisson SAS Resort Aqaba in Jordan and later moved to more senior front office roles before taking up his first position as a general manager in 2011. His hands-on management style and ability to mentor his team helped him become a trusted leader with a sound knowledge of operations and a strategic approach. In Al Khobar, Farajat will be responsible for the overall operations of the hotel, leading the team to maximise efficiency and guest satisfaction.
Djamilya Ashykova has joined Radisson Blu Resort Sharjah as sales manager. Ashykova will focus on further developing the hotel’s growing portfolio of leisure accounts. She has over eight years of experience in tourism and has also worked at one of the UAE’s largest destination management companies. Her deep knowledge of the industry is set to be a key asset for the team and she is expected to play an important role in establishing new contacts while also nurturing and further deepening ties with existing partners.
Ashykova will be in charge of leisure accounts
26 DECEMBER 2015
GOVIND PRATAP
Govind Pratap has taken over as group general manager at BEST WESTERN PREMIER Deira and Sun & Sky Hospitality. Pratap has over 25 years of experience in Dubai and has been associated with a number of renowned brands in the region. A hospitality veteran and quick decision-maker, Pratap brings extensive leadership skills and expertise to the team.
Pratap has 25 years of hospitality experience
NICK HEATH
Nick Heath has been named complex general manager at Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel. Heath has been with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide since 2007 and served as the general manager of W Bangkok and W Seoul-Walkerhill before moving to Qatar. He started his hospitality career as a corporate engineering management trainee and since then has grown his career. Heath brings with him a wealth of experience within the hospitality business with over 25 years of experience with global hotel chains across the US, Taiwan, Thailand, Guam, Indonesia and South Korea.
Heath has been with Starwood since 2007
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TRAVEL TALK
It […] takes more effort in challenging times to adapt expenses
HARTMUT GRAUEL General manager, Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel
“Our focus on cost and expenses has always been a priority for our business and it certainly takes more effort in challenging times to adapt expenses to the drop in revenue in a way that helps maintain the product and quality levels or even enhance them with added benefits and promotions other than just reducing our rates. […] Our plans for the next few months will be prepared by our sales team and the priceless support of our headquarters at Hospitality Management Holdings with CEO Laurent Voivenel at the helm.”
We have created a number of unique leisure-centric destinations
CARLOS SALAS Regional director, Middle East, Crystal Lagoons
Eastern Europe is a key growth market for the […] industry
AHMED DABBOUS CEO, Muriya Tourism Development
“The deal [with Hydrotour, the largest tour operator in Slovakia] was a natural progression of our continuous efforts to actively promote the Sultanate as a year-round tourist destination. According to a recent industry survey, outbound tourism from Eastern Europe is a key growth market for the global travel and tourism industry. This is a market that is yet to reach maturity, therefore, we have identified it as a key opportunity to grow tourist arrivals into the Governorate of Dhofar and Oman.”
“[The company’s first project in India] underscores Crystal Lagoons global expansion and further highlights our expertise in creating manmade lagoons through the application of our revolutionary technology. Since the company launched, we have created a number of unique leisure-centric destinations and added bodies of water to a range of developments and enhanced real estate value that otherwise would not be possible.”
The Etihad Airways brand has been catapulted into the global consciousness
PETER BAUMGARTNER Chief commercial officer, Etihad Airways
“This year has been a momentous one for Etihad Airways. The revolutionary cabin concepts we launched in 2014 are now a reality, already flying on our new fleet of Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The Etihad Airways brand has been catapulted into the global consciousness as the worldleading provider of remarkable travel experiences in all classes of service.”
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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26 DECEMBER 2015
AGENT CORNER
Agent’s Insight NAME:
Christos Christou
POSITION:
Managing director
COMPANY:
CPC Events
LOCATION:
Cyprus
WEBSITE:
www.cpc-events.com
Sabre to Enhance Hospitality Solutions When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? Even as a kid, I have always wanted to know people from all around the world and cultures, and gain knowledge and experiences. What are the most important attributes of a good travel agent/tour operator? Product knowledge, willingness, flexibility, experience in handling challenges and catching up with the trends of the market. What is the most frequently asked question that your company receives from customers? Why choose Cyprus and what are the advantages of your destination management company compared to other local competitors. What are the must-visits and must-dos in Cyprus that no one should miss? Cyprus has a heritage of 10,000 years. We, therefore, organise conferences and events in ancient sites and monuments; for example, a theatre performance followed by a gala dinner in Kourion Ancient Theatre, a treasure hunt competition in Kouklia ancient site, a conference in the medieval room of Aphrodite temple, or conferencing in old warehouses in the old part of towns, a village fiesta in a village square or in an abandoned village, a barbeque lunch in the forest next to a small river. Our aim is to combine the luxury of the hotels with our culture and heritage. In addition, we combine events that take place on the beach and in the mountains. We offer beach games followed by a beach party or an afternoon jeep tour with a Cypriot night with live music and dance. Our strength in Cyprus is the hospitality of the local people as well as our food culture. Which destination is on your bucket list? We currently invest in the Indian and the Chinese market. 26 DECEMBER 2015
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abre embarked on a definite agreement to acquire Trust Group of Companies, a central reservations, revenue management and hotel marketing provider with a significant presence in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. Trust Group of Companies’ global customer base, broad capabilities and solutions will allow the technology provider to offer a comprehensive SaaS platform, while consolidating its position as a large central reservations system supplier to accommodation establishments. Tom Klein, president, Sabre, commented, “Acquiring the Trust Group is consistent with our stated goal of building on Sabre Hospitality Solutions’ global leadership position, and this combination will enable us to grow faster.”
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Downtown Dubai Displays Race Boat Emaar Properties celebrated its third year of partnership with the World Professional Powerboating Association as one of the main sponsors of the UIM XCAT World Series by showcasing an XCAT race boat in Downtown Dubai.
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he initiative was aimed at building excitement surrounding the sports event that was held in Dubai and Abu
Dhabi. To highlight the company’s support to the programme, a social media competition was organised with the lucky winners experiencing the thrill of being in one of the extreme catamarans.
XCAT race boat in Downtown Dubai
UNWTO Addresses Effectiveness of PPPs
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he World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in collaboration with the Griffith Institute of Tourism published UNWTO Global Report on PublicPrivate Partnerships (PPPs): Tourism Development, which highlights how such collaborations among tourism stakeholders drive socioeconomic development. Through a wide range of casestudies, the report provides solid evidence for the importance of effective PPPs in tourism, illustrating how partnerships across different destinations and market segments can be used as enhancement tools.
Centro Sharjah Joins Blood Donation Campaign
Blood donation campaign
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n line with its corporate social responsibility (CSR) endeavours, Centro Sharjah organised a blood donation camp with Sharjah Blood Transfusion & Research Center. Colleagues, guests and friends were invited to get involved in the #CentroGoesRed initiative, which is expected to be followed by similar actions. “We are committed to the betterment of the community we operate in and whole heartedly, with the support of our guests and colleagues engage in various CSR initiatives,” commented Michael Kasch, general manager, Centro Sharjah.
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26 DECEMBER 2015
PHOTO ALBUM
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
flydubai celebrates 44 years of the union
Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman received Wyndham Hotel Group executives and the general managers of Wyndham-branded properties in the UAE at its urban farm
National day celebrations at Oman Air
26 DECEMBER 2015
The Palace Boutique Hotel, Bahrain's team at Bahrain Marathon Relay
Popular entertainer 50 Cent visited Movida Dubai
Sheraton Abu Dhabi united 44 nationalities for UAE’s 44th national day
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WEEKLY NEWS & EVENTS NEWS XX Great Turnout for CITE
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he Chengdu International Tourism Expo (CITE) attracted over 1,660 exhibitors representing 378 organisations along with 406 hosted buyers from 35 countries and destinations. The three-day show, which also welcomed more than 6,000 trade and 10,000 public visitors, featured an array of activities, including destination and promotion presentation sessions, seminars as well as meeting and networking opportunities. The next installment of CITE will be held between December 1 – 3, 2016 in Chengdu.
EVENTS MEETINGS MOROCCO Marrakech, Morocco January 14 – 15, 2016 www.meetings-morocco.com Designed to ensure the promotion of all the country has to offer to professional event organisers at both local and international levels.
BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW Sakhir, Bahrain January 21 – 23, 2016 bahraininternationalairshow.com A focussed global aviation event providing its elite list of aerospace business participants with the opportunity for highlevel networking in exclusive surroundings.
EMITT to Foster Turkey – South Africa Ties
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ourism officials from Turkey and South Africa convened in Istanbul in a bid to constitute productive partnerships and boost traffic between the two countries. The meetings with Hacer Aydin, group director, tourism travel and fashion, ITE Turkey, the organiser of East Mediterranean International Tourism and Travel Exhibition (EMITT) and the company’s exhibitions team marked a positive step forward in the destinations’ relation. As Derek Hanekom, tourism minister, South Africa, pinpointed, EMITT is now one of the world’s biggest tourism exhibitions. Commenting on the developments, Aydin added, “The attendance of South Africa’s minister of tourism […] in person shows that EMITT is a very important event for the shaping of countries’ goals and politics. We carry out our work throughout the year in order to improve the tourism sector; one of the carriers of our economy.” The 20th edition of EMITT will take place between January 28 – 31, 2016 in Istanbul.
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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.
IBTM ARABIA Abu Dhabi, UAE February 09 – 11, 2016 www.ibtmarabia.com With a new format, the event is ideal for meetings, events and incentives industry decision-makers to meet for global business adventures.
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