2 JANUARY 2016 ISSUE 321
10 ACCOMMODATION
08
ROTANA: 14 OPENINGS THIS YEAR
NEW DOHA PORT TO WIDEN QATAR’S HORIZON
03 Hotel
Performance
11 NEW ETIHAD PREMIUM LOUNGE AT JFK
14 International 21 Agent Corner 23 Photo Album
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
JAZEERA AIRWAYS CONTINUES STEADY PATH
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba JOURNALIST Pauline Shahabian CONTRIBUTOR Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou 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
Jazeera Airways’ latest financial results indicate that the company’s net profit surged 11.7 percent year-on-year in the first nine months of 2015, touching KWD14.47 million (USD47.69 million).
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imilarly, during the same period, the Kuwaiti carrier’s earnings per share rose 11.7 percent, amounting to KWD34.45 (USD113.47). In addition, in the third quarter of the year, the airline’s net profit improved 2.4 percent to KWD8.25 million (USD27.19 million).
EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
Essa Sulaiman Ahmad, vice president, India and Nepal, Emirates, presented the study
EMIRATES: USD848 MILLION IMPACT ON INDIAN ECONOMY
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MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of
2
24.12.2015
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
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Dirham
3.67
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Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.82
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30,114.89
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1,107.06
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,508.856
Libya (LYD)
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1.39
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.90
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Pound
188.81
Tunisia (TND)
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2.03
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.89
A study that measured Emirates’ input to the Indian economy estimates that the airline’s operations contribute over USD848 million annually to the country’s GDP.
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oreover, the carrier has over the years supported over 86,000 Indian jobs and generated almost USD1.7 billion in foreign exchange earnings. With India aiming to become the third-largest aviation market by 2020 and the largest by 2030, Adnan Kazim, divisional senior vice president, strategic planning, revenue optimisation and aeropolitical affairs, Emirates, commented that the carrier has been committed to India since the launch of operations in 1985 and has progressively grown services to the country by increasing capacity and opening new routes.
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WEEKLY NEWS HOTEL PERFORMANCE
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While in Dubai the constant growing supply continued to pose challenges for the hotel sector, Amman and Riyadh witnessed positive improvements in October 2015, according to HotStats.
Dubai Faces Fierce Competition; Manama Underperforms
Positive Signs in Amman and Riyadh
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otels in Amman witnessed a 9.1 percentage point improvement in occupancy to 67.9 percent in October 2015, offsetting a 5.6 percent decline in ARR. The renewed demand drove an increase in all metrics, including RevPAR which climbed 8.9 percent to USD103.24. Conference and banqueting showed particularly strong growth at 34.7 percent, helping GOPPAR rise 38.8 percent to USD67.70. In Riyadh, occupancy levels averaged at 66.3 percent, up 12 percent; ARR, however, was 1.1 percent lower than in 2014 at USD226.07. Nevertheless, RevPAR and total RevPAR still rose 20.8 percent and 18.5 percent, respectively, resulting in a GOPPAR increase of 36 percent to USD117.94.
Marginal Declines in Doha
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ive- and four-star hotels in Dubai continued to experience weakening average room rates (ARR) in October 2015, falling 8.1 percent to USD312.08, whilst occupancy levels remained strong at 82.9 percent. The decrease in RevPAR was compounded by 12 percent lower food and beverage revenues, dragging total RevPAR down 8.8 percent to USD423.54. All in all, gross operating profit per available room (GOPPAR) stood at USD194.64, down 17 percent year-on-year. Hoteliers in Manama witnessed weak performance indicators as well, with occupancy levels plummeting 6.2 percentage points to 50.8 percent, impacting ARR and RevPAR which fell 14.6 percent and 24 percent, respectively, leading to a GOPPAR of USD47.31, a drop of 41.2 percent compared to October 2014. Doha
D Dubai
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espite increasing economic activity in the city, Doha’s hotels saw demand levels fall in October 2015, with occupancy dropping 1.4 percentage points to 74.9 percent. The fall in demand impacted all performance indicators with ARR and RevPAR declining 12.7 percent and 14.3 percent, respectively. Higher food and beverage demand was insufficient to offset the softer room revenue, hence the 8.6 percent decrease in GOPPAR to USD160.78.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Global Tourism Improved by 3.5 Percent According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the global industry is forecast to have grown by 3.5 percent in 2015.
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espite a number of terrible regional incidents throughout the year, the sector will still grow one percent faster than the global GDP in 2015,” confirmed David Scowsill, president, WTTC. The council estimated the industry’s total contribution to the world economy at USD7.8 trillion in 2015. Moreover, money spent by foreign travellers is to surge 2.9 percent, in line with the continuous growth in international travel.
Vienna
GCC Tourists Flock to Vienna
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ienna remains a popular destination for travellers from the GCC region, with 2015 being another record-breaking year. From January to October 2015, guest nights from the UAE soared 48.2 percent year-on-year, reaching 110,663. Arrival levels also saw a similar growth, with Emirati and Saudi tourists registering surges of 44.8 and 19.4 percent, respectively, compared to the same period in 2014. “Vienna sees most visitors from the region in summer, but Vienna Tourist Board also registered a significant growth of visitors from the GCC in the winter months,” said Verena Hable, media relations, Japan, China, South Korea, Russia and Arab countries, Vienna Tourist Board.
Sabre: Online and Mobile Channels Grow
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nline and mobile technologies are key drivers of the travel industry’s growth in the Middle East, it was acknowledged by Sabre executives at an event held in Dubai. The programme Connect Online gathered professionals from across the region to discuss trends and exchange best practices in tourism innovation. Daniel Naoumovitch, CEO, Middle East, Sabre Travel Network, commented, “Internet penetration in the GCC is now more than 60 percent, with one out of every two people actively engaged in e-commerce in Dubai. Consumers today are connected online, via smartphones and wearable devices, and expect everything that was once offline to be available online, including travel.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Sharjah: Focal Point of Halal Trade
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Nearly 124,000 Tourists in Palestine in Q3 2015
Jerusalem
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he Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics announced that during the third quarter (Q3) of 2015, 123,531 travellers stayed in West Bank hotels; 25 percent from European Union countries and 14 percent from Palestine. During the same period, the number of guest nights in West Bank’s accommodation establishments totalled 336,822, with 26 percent of those spent in Jerusalem. Occupancy rates rose one percent yearon-year to reach 23 percent, but declined 10 percent compared to the second quarter of 2015.
New Destination Brand for Ajman
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jman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) unveiled a new identity for the emirate, aiming to promote the destination as the perfect place to experience Emirati hospitality. “To tell our story, we have created a brand that is modern, unique and embodies the true spirit of Ajman. We have also made a new tagline along with the brand that is colourful and attractive,” commented H.E. Faisal Al Nuaimi, general manager, ATDD. He emphasised that the new image was created to reflect the vision of the Ajman government as part of its marketing plan for the period between this year and 2018.
Faisal Al Nuaimi presented the initiative
Sharjah
he fourth OIC Halal Middle East Exhibition and Congress was held at Expo Centre Sharjah. The three-day event launched a new vertical targeting the Halal tourism segment and also featured the expanded Kitchen Equipment – HoReCa Middle East 2015 as a concurrent show. The programme was visited by delegations and business teams from several countries. Meanwhile, the third installment of the kitchen equipment fair sought to leverage on the regional hospitality industry’s success that is expanding fast on the back of preparations for several upcoming mega projects, rising tourist arrivals and a stronger MICE sector.
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Promotional event in Jeddah
Oman: Premier Tourist Destination for Saudis
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man’s Ministry of Tourism showcased the Sultanate’s varied tourism offering through an interactive event in Jeddah featuring a stand which highlighted the country’s rich traditions and landmarks, while guests were treated to a sample of local arts and crafts, in addition to other exciting activities. “We aim to attract visitors from all across the GCC as they represent a big portion of our annual tourists and we are steadfast in our commitment to providing them with an unparalleled rewarding tourist experience,” commented Salim Bin Adey Al Mamari, director general, tourism promotion, Ministry of Tourism, Oman.
Al Hamra Taps Into Kuwaiti Market
Nearly 300 Saudi Companies Support Domestic Tourism
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ccording to data provided by the Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH), the tour sector has recently witnessed a remarkable growth with the number of companies licensed by the authority rising to 290. These organisations are dealing with the operation of domestic services and achieve annual revenues of up to SAR170 million (USD45 million) by organising trips for both Saudi citizens and expatriates. The same source also revealed that for these tours, Riyadh, Jeddah and Medina are topping the list as the most popular destinations.
Medina
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l Hamra Real Estate Development returned to Cityscape Kuwait in December 2015, with a release of villas and apartments targeting the country’s high-networth individuals. Capitalising on the growing number of investors in the country, the company showcased park and beach units from its most recent high-profile launch, Falcon Island. Benoy Kurien, general manager, Al Hamra Real Estate Development, commented that the destination represents a very important segment for the Ras Al Khaimah-based company. “We are committed to ensuring Al Hamra’s portfolio [...] remains front-of-mind in this important market,” he confirmed.
Falcon Island villa
Bahrain Welcomes Czech Visa Centre
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FS Global launched a new visa application office for the Czech Republic in Bahrain, where travellers can submit their documentation and enrol for biometrics in a convenient environment. Yummi Talwar, regional head, Middle East, VFS Global, noted, “We are committed to streamlining the visa application process for travellers and providing best-in-class services for visitors to our centres.” Key features of the centre include professional staff with local language capability, automated queue governance for smooth flow of applicants, a dedicated website and secure handling of important documents, among others.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new centre
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WEEKLY NEWS CRUISING
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New Doha Port to Widen Qatar’s Horizon
New Doha port project
Over 15,000 workers are on site at the new Doha port project, which will ultimately transform Qatar’s coastline and open up a world of opportunities for the Gulf state.
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panning a total of 28.5km2, the QAR27 billion (USD7.4 billion) venture comprises three parts, namely Hamad Port, the country’s new naval base and Qatar Economic Zone 3, covering an area equivalent to Doha itself. Located 25km south of the capital, Hamad Port will already start welcoming vessels this month, while the first cruise ships are expected to call at the new location in October. While the old port in the city centre undergoes a complete transformation, the currently developed new project is set to facilitate around 30 calls during its first season, including vessels hailed as the world’s largest cruise ships, giving a major boost to Qatar’s tourism industry.
dnata to Handle AIDA Cruises’ Bahrain Excursions
AIDAstella
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nata entered into a partnership with AIDA Cruises to provide shore excursions to the German company’s guests in Bahrain. Throughout the year, the UAE-based travel management expert expects to serve approximately 25,000 – 30,000 tourists arriving to the Kingdom onboard AIDAstella, which cruises the Gulf waters and has a capacity of 2,300 passengers. “The partnership with AIDA Cruises fits in with our strategic focus to provide premium holiday products and services in Bahrain and further cement our position as a leader in cruise handling in the region,” said Ashley Correa, general manager, Bahrain, dnata.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
New Carlton Hotel in the UAE
Quorvus Collection Adds Omani Property
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2 JANUARY 2016
Dubai-based Carlton Group of Hotels added the former Metropolitan Palace Hotel to its growing portfolio.
Carlton Palace Hotel
ormuz Grand Hotel, Muscat joined Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s Quorvus Collection, a new-generation of curated luxury hotels inspired by the lifestyle and sensibilities of the contemporary global traveller. The 231-room accommodation establishment is situated close to major government and academic institutions, shopping and golf areas, and is just 4km from Muscat International Airport and 20km from the centre of the capital. Chris Pike, general manager, Hormuz Grand Hotel, Muscat, commented, “We are delighted to bring Hormuz Grand Hotel, Muscat into the Quorvus Collection, and introduce our own suite of hallmark and essential services tailored for the travellers looking for individual luxury.”
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ebranded to Carlton Palace Hotel, the property is located in Deira and features 212 rooms and suites, including three club floors and an executive lounge, rooftop swimming pool and substantial meeting and conference facilities. “We are delighted to acquire this prestigious hotel, adding a well-established five-star property to our expanding portfolio,” commented Hosni Abdelhadi, general manager, Carlton Group of Hotels.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Rotana: 14 Openings
THIS YEAR
ROTANA CONTINUES ITS EXPANSION WITH THE PLANNED LAUNCH OF 14 PROPERTIES THIS YEAR.
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Centro Olaya, Riyadh
longside the opening of the company’s first project in the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rotana is also working on new additions in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iraq and Turkey. According to Omer Kaddouri, president, Rotana, the developments will reinforce the company’s market leadership position in the Middle East and bring it closer to its vision of operating 100 hotels by 2020.
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The Domain Boasts New Software
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ebuting in Dubai in February, Nikki Beach Restaurant & Beach Club paves the way for the official opening of Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai in spring. Part of a 52,000m2 project which will comprise many top-line amenities, the outlet will be nestled in the private, surroundings of the man-made Pearl Jumeirah peninsula. “Dubai’s penchant for celebrating life in style is well known and, with the opening of Nikki Beach Dubai, it is extremely exciting to bring our global vision to the Middle East,” said Jack Penrod, founder, Nikki Beach Worldwide.
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The launch event
Nikki Beach Restaurant & Beach Club
Nikki Beach to Launch in February
he Domain Hotel and Spa launched its new, multifunctional, content-rich mobile application. The software was introduced during an event held at the property in the presence of Sheikh Khaled Bin Humood Al-Khalifa, assistant undersecretary of tourism, Bahrain. Stephen Daniel, assistant general manager, The Domain Hotel and Spa, welcomed guests, while Tanvi Bhatia, sales and marketing manager, The Domain Hotel and Spa, gave a presentation of the new application, which is available to download through Google Play and iOS App Store.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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New Etihad Premium Lounge at JFK
Premium lounge at John F. Kennedy International Airport
Reinforcing its commitment to further improving the ground experience for guests, Etihad Airways unveiled a first- and business-class lounge at New York’s John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport.
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onveniently located close to the gate area after the security checkpoint in Terminal 4, the new facility, the airline’s second in the US after Washington, D.C., boasts a unique atmosphere reflecting 21st century Abu Dhabi modernism, and embodies the highest levels of luxury and comfort. Amenities include a sculptural showcase bar and lounge with a dining area, a library and prayer rooms, amongst others.
Hubert Frach, divisional senior vice president, commercial operations, west, Emirates (left) in Copenhagen
Emirates A380 Lands in Copenhagen
E DID YOU KNOW... Copenhagen is considered one of the happiest cities?
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mirates has expanded its network of destinations served by its Airbus A380 fleet with the launch of the first A380 service to Copenhagen. Denmark’s capital is the first Scandinavian city to welcome this kind of aircraft and the 36th in the UAE-based airline’s operations. Emirates will fly daily between Dubai and Copenhagen, which is also the carrier’s first route to be operated with an A380 in a two-class configuration, with a capacity of 615 passengers in each direction.
Gulf Air to Improve E-commerce
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ulf Air launched a joint solution with Anixe and Vayant Travel Technologies to enhance its e-commerce website with a next-generation booking and shopping platform aimed at improving the experience for customers while booking flights and purchasing various travel add-ons such as rail tickets, hotel bookings, car rentals, tours and more. According to Maher Salman Al Musallam, acting CEO, Gulf Air, “As consumers are becoming increasingly more sophisticated and demand a more seamless experience, this initiative ensures we deliver that to them while still maintaining a direct relationship between the customer and our airline.”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
RJ Opens Breadth of Choice via Vueling
Barcelona
Qatar Airways Celebrates Durban Service
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Qatar Airways in Durban
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atar Airways commenced operations to Durban, its third destination in South Africa after Cape Town and Johannesburg. The four times weekly flights, which are being offered onboard a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, bring the airline’s weekly frequencies between Doha and the African country to 21. As Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, noted, the carrier has been serving South Africa for a decade. “Durban’s prestige as a tourism destination is attracting an increasing number of travellers who deserve the world-class service and best in class value that only Qatar Airways can deliver,” added Al Baker.
oyal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) signed an interline agreement with Vueling Airlines, whereby its passengers can connect to the Spanish lowcost carrier’s 150 destinations via its hub in Barcelona and to 65 locations from its second centre in Rome. The new itineraries can be reached by passengers arriving on the Jordanian flag carrier’s three weekly flights from Amman to Barcelona or its five weekly services from the Middle Eastern capital to Rome, and then on to Vueling Airlines’ destinations.
Etihad Expands Ties with S7 Airlines
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tihad Airways added to its codeshare partnership with S7 Airlines to cover eight more destinations from the Russian carrier’s Moscow hub. Abu Dhabi’s flag carrier now also places its code on S7 Airlines’ domestic services between the capital and Chelyabinsk, Krasnoyarsk, Novosibirsk, Novy Urengoy, Omsk, Perm, Rostov-on-Don and Sochi. In turn, the European airline applies its code on routes via Moscow to Abu Dhabi and selected connecting destinations on Etihad Airways’ network, including Singapore, Bangkok, Phuket and Sydney. “Through this enhanced partnership we are demonstrating our commitment to the Russian inbound and outbound market, and providing guests with greater choice and travel convenience,” commented James Hogan, president, Etihad Airways.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Etihad Enhances Presence in East Africa
New Dreamliner Touches Down at BIA
Abu Dhabi Welcomes KLM’s First Dreamliner
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LM’s new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner arrived in Abu Dhabi after a flight from Amsterdam, inaugurating the seven-weekly services between the two cities. The UAE capital is the first KLM destination to be served by the new aircraft. Gilles Roche, general manager, Gulf, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Pakistan, Air France-KLM, said, “The KLM Dreamliner sets new levels of onboard experience for passengers with greater comfort in every aspect, more entertainment, and fine-dining options in a contemporary cabin – all in one incredible aircraft.”
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ahrain International Airport (BIA) welcomed KLM’s first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner which will operate daily flights from Amsterdam to Bahrain via Abu Dhabi. Mohamed Khalil, chief commercial officer, Bahrain Airport Company, commented, “It is indeed a great pleasure to witness the arrival of the latest Boeing 787-9 passenger aircraft at Bahrain International Airport. This newest addition to Air FranceKLM’s Bahrain fleet marks a noteworthy milestone for both the airline and our national gateway.”
BIA’s officials welcomed the aircraft
Dar es Salaam
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tihad Airways launched a new service between Abu Dhabi and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania operated by a two-class Airbus A320 aircraft. The new route is designed to provide business and leisure travellers with a direct daily flight between the two cities, with convenient onward connections to key locations. “Dar es Salaam is a wonderful destination for tourists seeking to experience the great culture and history of Tanzania, and provides the gateway to numerous national and international tourist attractions, including Mount Kilimanjaro, the wildlife-rich national parks of the Serengeti, and the spice island of Zanzibar,” commented Daniel Barranger, senior vice president, global sales, Etihad Airways.
Ambitious Fleet Plans for Emirates
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DID YOU KNOW... KLM first welcomed its newest fleet member, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, on November 23, 2015?
his year, Emirates will retire a total of 26 aircraft, including 12 Airbus A330-300s, four Airbus A340300s, one Airbus A340-500, six Boeing 777-200ERs, two Boeing 777-300s and one Boeing 777-300ER, while it will take delivery of 36 new Airbus A380 and Boeing 777300ER aircraft. Tim Clark, president, Emirates, noted, “With the retirement of older aircraft and the introduction of new, more fuel-efficient aircraft [this year], Emirates will continue to lead the industry in reducing the age of our fleet, while at the same time defining new levels of service that our customers have come to expect.”
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL Carlson Rezidor Enters Vietnam
Courtyard by Marriott Kingston, Jamaica
Jamaica Greets Latest Marriott Addition
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arriott International boosted its Caribbean presence with the opening of the 129-room Courtyard by Marriott Kingston, Jamaica. Located close to Norman Manley International Airport and bustling dining and shopping areas, the hotel, which boasts green building design, construction, operations and maintenance solutions, features the brand’s Centro restaurant, flexible meeting space, a state-of-theart fitness centre and swimming pool. Tim Sheldon, president, Caribbean and Latin America, Marriott International, commented, “Courtyard by Marriott has become a very popular brand in the Caribbean and is expanding rapidly. It offers excellent value in the mid-tier market that is currently underserved.”
Best Western Penetrates Subic Bay
Best Western Plus Hotel Subic
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est Western Hotels & Resorts unveiled a new property in the Philippines at Subic Bay. Best Western Plus Hotel Subic is hailed as the first internationally-branded midscale hotel in the area. Set in a brand-new building, it offers 77 rooms. Olivier Berrivin, managing director, international operations, Asia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, stated, “The Philippines is an incredibly important market for Best Western, and I am delighted to be able to welcome guests to our first ever hotel in Subic Bay – another exciting destination for our company.”
Japan Welcomes Sheraton Ski Resort
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heraton Hotels & Resorts re-entered Hokkaido with the introduction of the brand’s first ski resort in Japan. Following extensive renovations, Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort offers ski-in-ski-out luxury combined with all of the hotelier’s signature amenities and services. The 140-room property features a club lounge, dining options, lobby bar and a meeting room accommodating up to 100 guests. Dave Marr, global brand leader, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts and Tribute Portfolio, enthused, “[...] Our presence in Hokkaido builds on the brand’s first mover advantage, as we continue to provide guests access to some of the most sought after destinations in the world.”
Hokkaido, Japan
Vietnam
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arking the company’s foray into Vietnam, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is to introduce Radisson Blu Cam Ranh Bay. The 290-key, new-build property is scheduled to open in early 2019 and will feature 40 high-end villas providing guests with direct access to an 800m stretch of beach. “This latest Radisson Blu flagship will provide international and domestic travellers with a full range of innovative design-led products and services, delivering genuine and relevant guest experiences with Radisson Blu’s distinctive […] service philosophy,” said Thorsten Kirschke, president, Asia Pacific, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.
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2 JANUARY 2016
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 INTERNATIONAL
The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bali Unveiled
The Ritz-Carlton, Bali
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uests staying at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali can now unwind and reenergise themselves at the brand’s signature spa. Balinese inspired treatments await visitors at the wellness centre’s 14 free-standing treatment rooms, which also include four spa villas with bathing pool, an open-air relaxation area and outdoor shower. “Taking inspiration from the Indian Ocean, The RitzCarlton Spa, Bali seamlessly infuses the theme of water and healing resources of the sea throughout every element of the spa experience, creating a completely rejuvenating spa immersion,” commented Karim Tayach, general manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali.
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hoice Hotels International added the 92-room Hotel North Woods in Lake Placid in New York to its Ascend Hotel Collection. “The essence of the Ascend Hotel Collection is to honour the unique and colourful spirit of locally owned hotels and the communities which they serve,” said Neil Cantor, head, Ascend Hotel Collection. “From its vital role in the region’s hospitality history to the hotel’s warm Adirondack decor, friendly service and the cuisine they serve, Hotel North Woods is a perfect fit,” he enthused. The property caters to visitors of Lake Placid, as well as to ski enthusiasts as it is close to Whiteface Mountain.
Lake Placid
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laremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel is the newest addition to Fairmont Hotels & Resort’s US portfolio. The hotelier’s parent company, FRHI Hotels & Resorts purchased the establishment in 2014, following a multimillion dollar upgrade of the property’s facilities and architecture. The 276-room hotel now boasts a restored entrance with a grand gallery, several dining options, spa, tennis and fitness centre, ample meeting space and a ballroom accommodating 450 guests. Kevin Frid, president, Americas, FRHI Hotels & Resorts, said, “[It] has been an honour for Fairmont to take on this heritage hotel’s reintroduction as a Fairmont property.”
Choice Hotels Expands Portfolio with New York Hotel
Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong Boasts New Rooms
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he Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong unveiled newly redesigned guestrooms and suites, reinvented by the acclaimed Hong Kong designer, Joyce Wang. Graced by a calming colour palette, each room boasts luxurious furniture and fabrics, as well as bathrooms with both deep soaking tubs and power showers. In addition, guests can enjoy a daily selection of culinary in-room amenities, prepared by Michelin-starred Amber restaurant, in a stylish cooling vitrine.
The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong
Claremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel
Fairmont Takes On Historic Landmark
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2 JANUARY 2016
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RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
like to choose our identity very carefully. We will be an airline that will treat every customer as they expect to be treated. We will try to understand their communication style and adapt to that. Our customers will [mean] everything and they deserve every bit of attention, does not matter who they are or what faith they follow.
KAZI SHAFIQUR RAHMAN CEO, FIRNAS AIRWAYS
ADMITTEDLY INTENDING TO SHAKE THINGS UP WITHIN THE AVIATION INDUSTRY, UK START-UP AIRLINE, FIRNAS AIRWAYS IS DETERMINED TO BRING A NEW CONCEPT TO THE MARKET AS KAZI SHAFIQUR RAHMAN, CEO, FIRNAS AIRWAYS, EXPLAINS.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How was the idea to establish an airline serving primarily Muslim travellers and expatriates living in the UK conceived? KAZI SHAFIQUR RAHMAN: [Earlier media reports] did not exactly define who we are as a brand; they decided to give us an identity themselves. We are a multicultural airline with a Halal-friendly attitude and aspect; however, that does not mean we will be able to achieve everything which will be Halal, especially in a world that does not fully recognise Halal yet. There may be aspects that may not necessarily be Halal, especially in a world where the majority of things are not Halal and this is why we 2 JANUARY 2016
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How will the airline’s business model and growth strategy differ from those of other carriers operating in the same regions? What kind of ground and in-flight services will be offered for Muslim passengers? KAZI SHAFIQUR RAHMAN: As we are set to be a UK-based carrier, we can potentially become the third long-haul full service operator from the UK along with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. This gives us an opportunity to serve the markets and routes they do not serve and does not fit their business model either, as they tend to focus a lot more on the front half of the plane which puts us in a perfect position to focus on the back half of the plane and improve it dramatically by increasing seat pitch and width, and by offering a premium style service at economy prices. I do not want people flying cattle class any more. I believe passengers can get a lot more for their money. In terms of Halal friendliness, we will do small things that Muslims and in fact everyone will appreciate that large operators tend to miss out on. I am sure that people do not choose an airline based on what food and drinks they offer, it is the comfort, security and safety and value for money that drives their decision-making process. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Where will the airline operate from and what destinations are on your radar? KAZI SHAFIQUR RAHMAN: We will not disclose the name of out homebase yet, as we are still evaluating and negotiating the best location and deal for us and naming a particular airport will not help us in any way in the negotiations. We are looking to fly to any and eve-
ry unserved and underserved destination, as well as to destinations that have huge commercial potentials; routes such as London – Sylhet, Islamabad, Kolkata, Ghana, Jeddah, New York, Toronto, Chicago and many more. Keep an eye out and you will see a lot of fun destinations coming up. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: The company has recently launched a fund-raising campaign in order to find Middle Eastern investors. How much money are you looking to raise and how will this amount support the launch and further operation of the airline? How strong has interest been so far?
KAZI SHAFIQUR RAHMAN: We are looking to raise USD50 – 90 million to fund the operations from now until the fifth year. We have calculated and it shows that we [could be] profitable in year three. It also shows that by year five we will have more than 10 aircraft, if all goes well. Our funding requirement also has a 10 percent contingency to ensure we are ready for any crisis should there be any, and also be ready to grow quicker if needed – subject to opportunity, feasibility and viability. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What is your philosophy? KAZI SHAFIQUR RAHMAN: We would rather make friends than become competitors, and that is my philosophy. We will defiantly come in the market and shake things up a little, and that is good news for economy travellers.
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MICHAEL KEMPF has been named executive assistant manager at Towers Rotana, Dubai. Kempf, who has been with Rotana since 2002, has over the years gained valuable knowledge in the UK, Europe and the UAE. In his new position, he will be assisting the general manager in accomplishing the new upcoming projects such as the pool lounge and spa, and will be working closely with the entire team offering treasured time for all guests.
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MARK TIMBRELL
MICHAEL KEMPF
WHO’S MOVED
VINAY NAMBIAR has been chosen as SpiceJet’s country head for the UAE. Nambiar joins the Indian airline from Arik Air in Nigeria, where he held the position of vice president for the UAE and Gulf region. With more than 16 years of experience in commercial aviation in the UAE, Asia Pacific, the Indian subcontinent and the African markets, he has spearheaded crucial roles associated with driving sales, competitor activities, channel performance, maximising revenue and market intelligence, among others.
Nambiar has extensive experience in the region
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Timbrell began his career in 1983
SAMEERA SHAIKH
VINAY NAMBIAR
Kempf has been with Rotana for 13 years
MARK TIMBRELL has been appointed general manager of Oryx Rotana Doha. Timbrell has considerable experience in the hospitality industry, having begun his career in 1983, in the UK. In 1995, he took the helm at Forte Grand Hotel in Amman, and then moved to Bahrain to handle InterContinental Regency Bahrain until 1999. In the same year, he returned to Jordan and managed several hotels until April 2007. Following this assignment, he joined Rotana as general manager of Gefinor Rotana Hotel in Lebanon, and in 2013 he was named general manager of Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana in Abu Dhabi.
SAMEERA SHAIKH has been selected as meetings and events sales executive at Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah. Shaikh brings nine years of hospitality experience to the role with a deep knowledge of various departments, including food and beverage, reservations and sales. Her expertise and willingness to get things done in a professional manner are set to be valuable assets to the team in Sharjah, where she will focus on the hotel’s meeting and events as well as corporate accounts.
Shaikh is an experienced and motivated sales executive
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2 JANUARY 2016
ANDREA POPA has been appointed assistant director of sales, groups and events at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, Dubai. Popa moves to Dubai from the UAE capital, where she was part of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal’s team. All in all, she has more than 10 years of international tourism and hospitality experience in delivering large-scale events and group business meetings.
ZAKIA KAZI
WHO’S MOVED
ZAKIA KAZI has joined Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi as the new marketing and communications manager. Kazi brings to the brand nine years of international hotel marketing experience from India and the UAE. Having risen in ranks from a public relations executive at a luxury hotel chain in India, she has gained extensive field expertise in Mumbai, New Delhi and Dubai. In the UAE capital, she will play a pivotal role in ensuring the successful marketing launch of the hotel.
Popa relocates to Dubai from Abu Dhabi
Kazi has worked in India and the UAE
SAHIL THAKUR has been chosen as assistant director of sales at Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai. In his role, Thakur will be in charge of strengthening the property’s business ties with existing clients and stakeholders, and will also be responsible for all aspects of sales, preparing sales budgets and business plans and identifying opportunities to drive revenue. Thakur, who has more than 12 years of experience in hospitality, previously worked as front office team leader at Hyatt Regency Delhi and group and events coordinator with Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai. He also held key managerial positions in hotels in the UAE with Flora Hospitality and Rotana, and also worked with Hotels Arabia as an agents relation manager.
MIRZA USMAN has been named assistant director of sales, corporate at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. Usman, who brings more than 10 years of experience to the team, joins the property from Accor. In his new position, he will be responsible for managing all existing and new corporate accounts of the hotel.
MIRZA USMAN
SAHIL THAKUR
ANDREA POPA
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Usman will manage all corporate accounts
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“The success of Elaf Group is closely linked to the performance of our valued dealers across the region. In recognition of their important role, we honour our key travel agents, especially those that deliver outstanding performance consistently year-onyear. During the Hajj season, our key dealers’ exceptional delivery of services highlighted yet again our common vision for high quality and excellence, both of which are central to our sustained success.”
JAMES HOGAN
The success of Elaf Group is closely linked to […] our valued dealers
PRESIDENT, ETIHAD AIRWAYS
We continue to expand our footprint beyond our Thai roots
“As we expand our presence in China, we are very excited to be in collaboration with some of the top developers in China. These two new properties [Amari Yangshou Guilin and Shama Daqing Heilongjiang] are part of our growing portfolio of 59 properties in operation, including 20 under development. We continue to expand our footprint beyond our Thai roots across the Asia Pacific region and have a strategic goal of managing 81 hotels, resorts and serviced apartments by 2018.”
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ACTING CEO, GULF AIR
MAHER SALMAN AL MUSALLAM
PRESIDENT, ONYX HOSPITALITY GROUP
PETER HENLEY
PRESIDENT, ELAF GROUP
ZIYAD BIN MAHFOUZ
TRAVEL TALK
Etihad Airways has always been about being the best “Etihad Airways and our 27,000 employees worldwide are reinventing the air travel experience, [...] while providing access to parts of the world that would otherwise go underserved or unserved. We are not about being the biggest – Etihad Airways has always been about being the best and, through our threeprong strategy of organic growth, codeshares and equity partners, Etihad Airways has been able to compete effectively with carriers much longer established and much larger in size.”
Shop Bahrain […] helps us showcase the Kingdom
“Our partnership with Shop Bahrain [festival] reflects Gulf Air’s long-standing and continuous support of Bahrain’s tourism and economic sectors and is part of our drive to strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a unique touristic destination. Shop Bahrain [...] helps us showcase the Kingdom to a regional and global audience, highlighting our many tourist attractions and encouraging visitors to come and enjoy the trademark Arabian hospitality that our national carrier is renowned for.”
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 When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? In 1979, once I completed my college degree in London, I decided to stay and look for a job there, instead of returning to Italy. What are the most important attributes of a good travel agent/tour operator? [These include] passion for travel, outside-the-box approach in creating new programmes, products, destinations and itineraries. Last but not least, you must know you will work very hard when eve-
NAME:
Arianna Pradella
POSITION:
Director of sales
COMPANY:
Caldana Travel Service
LOCATION:
Italy
WEBSITE:
www.caldana.eu
SafeTravels Launches Mobile App
rybody else will be off on vacation. What is the most frequently asked question that your company receives from customers? Quality of service and thorough assistance. What are the must-visits and mustdos in Italy that no one should miss? There is the first-timer’s Italy and a repeater’s Italy. The new visitor will surely ask for Venice, Rome, Milan, Florence and the Costiera Amalfitana. The repeater will have to visit Apulia, Sicily, the Tuscan countryside with the art cities, Emilia Romagna with all the food heritage, Piedmont for wine and truffles, and Sicily which deserves a holiday on its own. Which destination is on your bucket list? I have two for the upcoming year: Bali and Kerala. 2 JANUARY 2016
M
elbourne-based travel start-up, SafeTravels launched its mobile application allowing travel agents and tour companies to provide customers with their complete suite of travel documents, enhance tourist safety and centrally manage customer communications. Chris Reed, founder, SafeTravels, commented that the software was designed to ease frustration created by not being able to view all trip information in one location. “Smartphones are now an essential tool for travellers to seek information while on a trip, and access to itinerary information and travel documents easily through an app is becoming an expectation by digital-savvy travellers,” he added.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
EMIRATES AVIATION UNIVERSITY AWARDS GRADUATES
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JUMEIRAH REHABILITATES 44 TURTLES
Turtles released by Jumeirah Group
T
o commemorate the 44th national day of the UAE, Jumeirah Group released 44 sea turtles into the Arabian Gulf at Madinat Jumeirah’s private beach by Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. The 44 juvenile hawksbills were rescued from the country’s shores and nursed back to health by the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP). Since the project began in 2004, a total of 844 turtles were saved. Based at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and Madinat Jumeirah, DTRP is run in collaboration with Dubai’s Wildlife Protection Office, with essential veterinary support provided by Dubai Falcon Hospital and the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum (second from right) honours graduates
E
mirates Aviation University held its 24th annual graduation ceremony, honouring more than 400 students from undergraduate, vocational and postgraduate programmes as well as the UAE National Higher Diploma. H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman, Emirates Group, awarded degrees across multiple disciplines with hundreds of family and friends in attendance. “The growing aviation industry in the UAE and the wider region has created a whole spectrum of jobs that demand continuing education and professional qualifications. The success of our programmes reflects this demand, and also the calibre of our education,” said Ahmad Al Ali, chancellor, Emirates Aviation University.
W
ELBEE TO BE DISPLAYED IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre
heelchair users can now drive on the road without the need of any additional assistance. Elbee, a special two-seat vehicle for wheelchair users, enables them to drive at 80km/h on highways directly from the wheelchair – whether electrical or manual. The unique vehicle will be displayed during AccessAbilities Expo 2016, between February 9 – 11 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Elbee can be used on all European roads as it has valid homologations for the entire European Union and is now available in the Czech Republic and in France.
O ORYX ROTANA BACKS ENVIRONMENTAL SCHEME
ryx Rotana, Doha participated in the Sealine beach cleanup campaign which forms part of Qatar Tourism Authority’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. More than 20 volunteers from the property helped collect plastic bags and waste. Lana Jwainat, cluster director, marketing and communications, Oryx Rotana and Rotana City Center, commented, “Our participation in such activities falls under our corporate social responsibility programmes and reflects our keenness on preserving and maintaining one of the most important tourist destinations in Qatar.”
Campaign’s hotel volunteers
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Emirates celebrated its sponsorship of Real Madrid by adorning an Airbus A380 with the club’s crest and players
Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. Three-year-old Khalifa Humaid Al Suwaidi bagged a new Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited, courtesy of Nakheel, after visiting Dragon Mart
Rixos The Palm, Dubai was named the World's Leading Lifestyle Resort 2015 in the World Travel Awards 2015 finale
2 JANUARY 2016
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
This month Emirates customers can enjoy the first six Star Wars movies onboard
Royal Jordanian Airlines launched services to Ankara
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NEWS & EVENTS Discounts for Reed Events Delegates
R
eed Travel Exhibitions (RTE) signed a global agreement with oneworld as its exclusive airline alliance partner for this year at the recent ibtm world in Barcelona. The deal, hailed as the biggest partnership of its kind, will see RTE clients enjoy discounts on flights operated by the carriers of the alliance. It covers 19 events across 15 cities on five continents, which are expected to attract around 100,000 delegates.
Meetings Morocco Coming Up
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EVENTS MEETINGS MOROCCO Marrakech, Morocco January 14 – 15 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 bahraininternationalairshow.com A focussed global aviation event providing its elite list of aerospace business participants with the opportunity for highlevel networking in exclusive surroundings.
P
almeraie Resorts partnered with Meetings Morocco to stage the inaugural edition of the event exclusively dedicated to the organisation of seminars, conferences, congresses and incentives in the North African destination. To be held from January 14 – 15, the show will welcome 50 professionals and up to 150 international hosted buyers from more than 20 countries, in addition to selected Moroccan and international companies based in the country.
3RD ANNUAL AFRICA HOTEL EXPANSION SUMMIT Lagos, Nigeria January 28 – 29 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 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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