27 FEBRUARY 2016 ISSUE 329
09 ACCOMMDATION
11 REASONABLE COST HOTELS GAIN GROUND
ROTANA TO ADD THREE QATARI HOTELS
14 NILE AIR ENHANCES REGIONAL OPERATIONS
16 International 17 Rendezvous 21 Agent Corner
MARKET UPDATE
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QAIA: OVER SEVEN MILLION TRAVELLERS
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba
Queen Alia International Airport
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
More than seven million passengers passed through Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) in 2015, marking a marginal 0.1 percentage point increase in traffic over 2014.
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ased on figures released by Airport International Group (AIG), the company responsible for the rehabilitation, expansion and operation of the Jordanian airport, cargo traffic rose significantly, experiencing an overall growth of 7.3 percent to 100,691 tonnes, whereas aircraft movement figures showed a fall of 1.9 percent, settling at 71,753. Kjeld Binger, CEO, AIG, noted, “Despite regional challenges and circumstances, three new airlines joined QAIA’s network [in 2015], bolstering Jordan’s standing as a secure and stable country, as well as the airport’s position as a transit hub.”
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CHALLENGING YEAR FOR MIDDLE EASTERN HOTELIERS
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MENA EXCHANGE RATES
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26.2.2016
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
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
107.25
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.82
Iran (IRR)
Rial
30,192.13
Iraq (IQD)
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1,107.11
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Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,506.37
Libya (LYD)
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1.38
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.82
Syria (SYP)
Pound
188.81
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.02
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.89
Egypt
as of
Hotels in the Middle East closed 2015 with negative results, as occupancy dropped two percent to 67.4 percent, average daily rate (ADR) fell 2.6 percent to USD192.82 and RevPAR was down 4.6 percent to USD129.98.
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ccording to STR Global’s report, the industry’s recovery continued in Egypt with occupancy improving 4.2 percent to 53.7 percent, and both ADR and RevPAR witnessing double-digit rises at 18.9 percent and 23.9 percent. In Saudi Arabia, although occupancy declined, ADR showed a slight increase, while in the UAE, the 6.2 percent supply growth outpaced the 5.6 percent gain in demand, leading to negative year-on-year changes in all three key indicators.
27 FEBRUARY 2016
WEEKLY NEWS
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Dubai: Accessible to All In a bid to make Dubai the world’s friendliest place for the disabled, governmental bodies in the emirate are gearing up to enhance services that cater to the needs of people with disabilities.
S Mohammed Al Abbar, chairman, Emaar Properties (left) and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi signed the deal
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Shurooq Ventures into Real Estate
Dubai
ome of the new initiatives include Smart Gate Special Counters at the airports, guidelines in Braille, government staff trained in sign language, ease of wheelchair access to a range of facilities and areas as well as handicapped parking spaces, all of which were highlighted during the latest installment of AccessAbilities Expo. As H. E. Hamid Mohamed Al Qatami, chairman, Dubai Health Authority, noted, Dubai has proven to be a successful universal model in dealing with people with disabilities, having completed a set of regulations that ensure full support for individuals with special needs.
Dubai to Further Facilitate Chinese Visitations
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n a bid to reach out to millions of potential visitors, Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) established strategic partnerships with two of China’s biggest industry players in Shanghai. In terms of the deals, up until the end of the month, UnionPay International cardholders can take advantage of discounts across 120 hotels and attractions in Dubai, while online travel service platform, Tuniu is now offering an even more diverse range of travel products in the emirate. In 2015, 450,000 Chinese visitors headed to Dubai.
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harjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) partnered with Emaar Properties and Abu Dhabi-based property developer, Eagle Hills, to establish a new real estate company. Through Omran Properties, the entities aim to boost joint cooperation and expand economic investments in Sharjah. “We will seek through the new company to solidify relations based on trust and help develop and grow investments in the UAE, and Sharjah in particular, capitalising on Emaar’s exceptional experience in property development and management of shopping malls, retail trade, and the hospitality and leisure industry,” commented Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, chairperson, Shurooq.
27 FEBRUARY 2016
WEEKLY NEWS
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Tourism Adds USD12 Billion to Saudi Economy
Saudi Domestic Travel on the Rise
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SCTH Prompts TIDC to Action
Jeddah
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DID YOU KNOW... Riyadh province had acquired 11 percent of the total of domestic trips in 2015?
Riyadh
ver the past decade, domestic tourism spending has doubled in Saudi Arabia, reaching SAR104 billion (USD93.62 billion) at the end of 2015. Based on Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH)’s statistics, Mecca province proved to the most popular among local travellers, followed by Medina, the Eastern Province and the Riyadh region. The majority (32.5 percent) visited friends and relatives, and Umrah trips (26.5 percent), as well as entertainment purposes (18.9 percent) also contributed to the increase in domestic trips.
ourist spending in Saudi Arabia reached USD12 billion in 2014, positioning the Kingdom on the 31st spot on the World Economic Forum (WEF)’s annual list. In terms of competitiveness, the country was ranked fifth regionally and 64th internationally, while it finished 11th worldwide in the category of pricing. The Gulf state was also listed 23rd for its favourable business environment, 29th for safety and security and 40th for its air transport infrastructure. According to WEF, the key strengths of the Saudi economy remain the low public debt and inflation, stable banking system and improved infrastructure, among others.
Elaf Bullish about Saudi Hospitality Outlook
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ollowing seven and eight percent RevPAR increases reported from Mecca and Medina – said to be the highest in the GCC for 2015 – Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, CEO, Elaf Group, expects the positive trend to continue over the coming months. “[The year 2015] was truly a remarkable period for hospitality in Saudi Arabia, especially in Mecca and Medina due to the growth in tourism for religious purposes,” said Bin Mahfouz. “Elaf Group remains steadfast in its commitment to continue to offer excellent travel and hospitality services to religious pilgrims. We are committed to deliver world-class services to facilitate further expansion of the Saudi hospitality industry.”
Mecca
ccording to H. R. H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president, Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH), the organisation has prepared all the necessary projects and regulations to get Tourism Investment and Development Company (TIDC) off the ground and running. Abdul Aziz stressed the importance of picking up the new company in a bid to develop tourism destinations across the Kingdom. Speaking after the signing of cooperation agreements between National Handicraft Program and a number of local hotels, he said, “We now look forward to […] the accelerated development of heritage villages and city centres, which will be an incubator for various economic activities in the various areas of crafts and events, [among more].”
27 FEBRUARY 2016
WEEKLY NEWS
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New Dining Outlets aboard Carnival Inspiration
Dollar Rent a Car Expands UAE Presence
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27 FEBRUARY 2016
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uring its recent dry dock in Portland, US, Carnival Inspiration underwent a multi-million-dollar makeover to add a wide range of dining and bar enhancements. New dining outlets include Guy’s Burger Joint by celebrity chief Guy Fieri, as well as BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Bar and Alchemy Bar. The ship also offers WaterWorks aqua park, a 24-hour pizzeria, casino, a 1,115m2 health and wellness centre and an adults-only retreat. The ship will continue its yearround schedule of three- and fourday cruises to Baja from Long Beach, California.
n a bid to cater to the increasing number of tourists visiting Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), Dollar Rent a Car opened a new outlet at RAK International Airport, marking the company’s 26th location in the UAE. Marwan Al Mulla, general manager, Dollar Rent a Car UAE, commented, “The opening of the new outlet in RAK International Airport was very timely because we are seeing an increase in the number of visitors to the emirate every year. Our presence at the airport will ensure that we continue to provide excellent customer service to our patrons who are visiting Ras Al Khaimah for business or leisure.”
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WEEKLY NEWS
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Tourism Revenue Up in Ras Al Khaimah
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Ras Al Khaimah
as Al Khaimah witnessed a 12.4 percent rise in tourism receipts in 2015, driven by a six percent yearon-year increase in arrivals to 740,383. Consequently, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority reported positive performance across all key indicators including room and food and beverage revenue, as well as RevPAR and occupancy. The UK and India emerged as the fastest-growing source markets with visitor levels swelling 24.7 and 80 percent, respectively.
Budget Enhances UAE Offering
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udget Rent a Car has further boosted its presence at the UAE’s main entry points by opening a new outlet at RAK International Airport. The move, which was prompted by the recent growth in passenger traffic in the emirate, brings the company’s offices in the country’s airfields to four. Salim Damji, group general manager, Budget Rent a Car UAE, said, “Budget is keen to tap its expertise of servicing airport customers. We are the first premium car rental company to open an outlet at RAK International Airport.”
Saudis Enjoy UK Visa on the Go
Record Number of GCC Visits in Germany
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ver two million overnight stays were registered by GCC residents in Germany between January and November 2015, marking a 17.9 percent year-on-year increase and setting a new record. To further boost arrivals from the Gulf region, the German National Tourist Office (GNTO) launched a new promotional campaign under the title Holidays in the heart of the nature in Germany. “We are confident that the offerings will attract yet more visitors,” commented Maria Amaral, director of sales and marketing, GNTO.
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London
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FS Global unveiled On Demand Mobile Biometrics, a new top-tier service aimed at further simplifying UK visa applications in Saudi Arabia. Specifically designed for individual and group customers, the addition enables potential travellers to process the necessary documentation from the comfort of their home, office or any other locations. The service dispatches a small team to the candidate’s address of choice in order to complete the biometric enrolment process, ensuring utmost privacy and convenience.
Germany
27 FEBRUARY 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
ROTANA TO ADD THREE
Qatari Hotels
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he properties include the 220-key Centro Capital Doha which falls under the company’s lifestyle affordable brand and is scheduled to welcome its first guests in the first quarter of the year. The other developments, the 400-unit Plaza Rayhaan Doha and the 225-room Downtown Arjaan Doha, are set open in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Speaking about the hotelier’s expansion, Guy Hutchinson, chief operating officer, Rotana, said, “Qatar currently lacks in affordable business hotels that yet offer world-class service and comfort to guests, creating a gap in the market that brands like Centro by Rotana can look forward to filling.”
27 FEBRUARY 2016
Doha
ROTANA REVEALED PLANS TO LAUNCH THREE NEW PROJECTS IN QATAR BEFORE THE END OF 2018.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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St. Regis to Debut on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah
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he Rezidor Hotel Group will introduce its lifestyle select brand Radisson RED to Jeddah, with the 280-unit Radisson RED Makarunah in
tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announced The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm, the fifth property for the brand in the UAE. Owned by Dubai master-developer Nakheel, the hotel will be part of The Palm Tower, a 52-storey mixed-use luxury development, and the centrepiece of the emirate’s famous Palm Jumeirah. Due to open in 2018, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm will feature 289 rooms and suites – spanning the first 18 floors of the tower, two swimming pools, including what is hailed as one of the world’s highest infinity pool on the 50th floor, 210m above ground bordering all four sides of the building for a 360-degree view of Palm Jumeirah, Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline.
Radisson RED Makarunah
2018. The Saudi city is also to welcome the 84-room Park Inn by Radisson Madinah Road in early 2017. “The launch of Radisson RED and the opening of our first Park Inn by Radisson in Jeddah allow us to diversify our offer to our guests, leverage operational and commercial synergies, and unlock additional value for our owners,” commented Elie Younes, executive vice president, The Rezidor Hotel Group. As Younes revealed, by 2020, 60 hotels in urban locations are set to fly the Radisson RED flag.
Dubai Welcomes ibis Styles Dragon Mart
The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm rendering
Radisson RED and Park Inn Come to Jeddah
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Jannah Breaks Ground on Five-star Hotel
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akheel delivered the first of 10 hotels planned under its hospitality and leisure expansion plan, with a new 251-room property now open within Dubai’s Dragon Mart. Owned by the master-developer and managed by AccorHotels, the three-star ibis Styles Dragon Mart is also directly connected to Dragon Mart 2, offering access to over 4,000 shops, restaurants and entertainment facilities in the centres. Oliver Granet, chief operating officer, Middle East, AccorHotels, commented, “We expect leisure and business travellers to find a unique and affordable hospitality solution in the trendy ibis Styles Dragon Mart.”
Jannah Creek Dubai
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ibis Styles Dragon Mart
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annah Hotels and Resorts is to start construction on a new high-end property that promises to make the traditional reception check-in queue a thing of the past. Scheduled to open in 2018, the 152room Jannah Creek Dubai will offer a multitude of innovative features, including a unique check-in experience whereas guests will be greeted by a dedicated member of the staff who will carry out the process on a tablet device while showing the room. “As well as delivering a truly five-star product, Jannah Hotels and Resorts believes in embracing technology to provide an ultramodern service,” commented Nehme Imad Darwiche, CEO, Jannah Hotels and Resorts.
27 FEBRUARY 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Muriya Celebrates 700 Rooms in Salalah
Reasonable Cost Hotels Gain Ground
M Fanar Hotel & Residences
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27 FEBRUARY 2016
uriya completed the 700-unit first phase of its hotel project in its flagship destination in Salalah, with the opening of the four-star 218-key Fanar Hotel & Residences. “We have invested over USD500 million targeting the development of the largest integrated tourism complexes in the country,” commented Samih Sawiris, chairman, Muriya. “We celebrate an important milestone that underlines our commitment to continue building bustling high-end touristic towns and develop new lifestyle experiences.” As Sawiris further noted, over the last few years the company also assisted in the launch of six weekly direct flights from top European cities to Salalah, thus, bringing around 50,000 tourists annually to Oman.
idmarket accommodation options are becoming increasingly popular in the Middle East, with just over a third (36 percent) of leisure travellers now favouring budget alternatives according to a Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE)-commissioned YouGov Travel Oracle report. Asian expats are most likely to opt for low-cost hotels, and the study also showed that 41 percent of visitors interviewed has a per person trip budget of USD1,000 or less, thus, putting rates high on the priority list. Responding to current market trends, midmarket travel has been chosen as the theme of this year’s Arabian Travel Market, which will take place in April in Dubai.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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Four Seasons Bahrain Opens Health Centre
Danat to Gain Leisure Market Share
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our Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay now houses the Kingdom’s very first hotel clinic. H.E. Faeqa bint Saeed AlSaleh, health minister, Bahrain, inaugurated the medical facility at an exclusive ribbon-cutting ceremony. Located on the ground floor of the property, close to the employee entrance, the clinic provides high-level medical services.
Tilal Liwa Hotel
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anat Hotels & Resorts aims to further strengthen its position as a destination of choice for leisure travellers, especially from the all-important German market. The European country is among the property’s main feeders along with the UK, China and the GCC, however, a sharp drop in demand from Russia has prompted the management to tap into new markets, such as Scandinavia, Japan, Brazil, Italy and even the US. As Rima Rawass, group marketing manager, Danat Hotels & Resorts, revealed, the main focus is on the leisure segment, nevertheless, MICE and corporate business also remain a key area.
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay
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he Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal has launched a new off-site catering division, offering guests a refined dining experience. The team includes butlers for a seamless arrival, culinary experts to execute the most elaborate menus, servers and event managers for the smooth flow of the night, as well as housekeeping support during and after the event. As Robert Zellner, director of catering and conference services, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, explained, the aim is to bring the full Ritz-Carlton experience to the guest’s venue of choice.
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The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
Exquisite Dining Service at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi
27 FEBRUARY 2016
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Qatar Airways Enhances Doha – Maputo Service Effective from March 27, Qatar Airways will fly nonstop between Doha and Maputo, Mozambique three times per week.
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Maputo
he airline currently serves the route via Johannesburg with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. With the start of the upgraded itinerary to Maputo International Airport, passengers from Europe, the Americas, Middle East and Asia Pacific will be able take advantage of a seamless one-stop connection to Mozambique’s capital city via Doha, saving approximately five hours per direction. In turn, travellers from the African country will have more convenient options to over 150 global destination.
Gulf Air Expands Middle Eastern Portfolio
British Airways to Take Off to Tehran
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ulf Air further boosted its regional network by increasing frequencies to Jeddah and Kuwait. Bahrain’s national carrier now operates four and six daily flights to King Abdulaziz International Airport and Kuwait International Airport, respectively. “The enhanced Gulf Air services give travellers a greater selection of morning, afternoon and evening flights,” said Ahmed Janahi, acting chief commercial officer, Gulf Air. “This supplements our current schedules with complementary flight times that not only satisfy passengers’ need for more choice and flexibility, but also create improved connections for those passengers connecting to Gulf Air’s network of onwards destinations across the globe.”
27 FEBRUARY 2016
ritish Airways is set to launch a six times weekly service to the Iranian capital, subsequently moving to daily flights from the winter season, giving passengers more choice and flexibility between London and the Middle East. The itinerary from Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 5 will be operated by a four-class Boeing 777. Neil Cottrell, head of network planning, British Airways, commented, “The recent lifting of sanctions opens up exciting new prospects for Iran as a tourist destination and with its rich heritage, unique architecture and worldclass food it is unsurprising Tehran is tipped to be a popular destination for [this year].”
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Nile Air Enhances Middle East Operations
Bombardier Showcases CS100
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ile Air has further strengthened its presence in the Middle East with the inauguration of services to Basra and the introduction of extra frequencies on the Cairo – Kuwait route. The onceweekly flight between the North African capital and the airline’s second Iraqi gateway brings Nile Air’s network to 13 cities. “We remain committed to building sustainable ties in the Middle East and deepening the strong relationship between Egypt and Iraq,” commented Ahmed Aly, CEO, Nile Air. The carrier also added a third weekly frequency between Cairo and Kuwait.
Bombardier CS100 aircraft in SWISS colours
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X Jets Calls for Streamlining of Regional Traffic
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ccording to X Jets’ management, reforming the traffic in the Middle East’s upper airspace would be a powerful catalyst to the region’s aviation sector. With the newly-established entity reporting a strong response to its aircraft management offering, Hugh Courtenay, co-founder, X Jets, commented that the company developed integrated services that cover the full spectrum of aircraft owner requirements. Based on a recent report by NATS, an estimated USD16.3 billion in economic benefits can be achieved in the Middle East over the next 10 years through enhancements to air traffic control systems.
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Representatives of the two companies
ombardier’s all-new, recently certified CS100 aircraft in the livery of first operator Swiss International Air Lines, kicked off demonstration tours, with the first stop being Manama. In addition to scheduled visits across the Middle East, the plane was also present at this year’s instalment of Singapore Airshow and it will also make several stops in Asia Pacific, European and African destinations. “Following the CS100 aircraft’s certification and the latest updates from the C Series programme, we have received a tremendous amount of interest from airlines and stakeholders worldwide – all curious to see the only 100 percent-new, single-aisle aircraft entering the market in close to three decades,” noted Colin Bole, senior vice president, commercial, Bombardier.
Turkish Airlines and Boeing Unite Forces
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uilding on a 70-year relationship, Turkish Airlines and Boeing signed a collaboration deal aimed at further strengthening the carrier’s position in the global industry, and enhancing Turkey’s aerospace and technology capabilities. The two entities identified several potential areas of cooperation, including development and training, activities to boost the competitiveness of the country’s aviation manufacturers, and ways of supporting research and technology advancement as well as aerospace infrastructure. “Boeing is proud to further our strong, committed relationship with Turkish Airlines in ways that support both companies’ profitable growth and Turkey’s long-term development,” commented Ray Conner, president, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
27 FEBRUARY 2016
WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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mirates’ new flight between Dubai and Auckland is one of the world’s longest air routes by distance, however, through innovative measures, passengers get to their destination in the shortest possible time. While the 14,000km itinerary would normally take just under 16 hours from the airline’s base to New Zealand, and over 17 hours in the other direction, Emirates is using flexible routes, which can vary by day, in order to take full advantage of tail winds and avoid head winds, thus, significantly reducing the time in the air. The recently-launched service is operated by Boeing 777-200LR aircraft.
27 FEBRUARY 2016
Boeing 777-200LR
Emirates: 14,000km in the Shortest Time
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
Minor Debuts Oaks Brand in India
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Morristown
Oetker Collection Pens Manhattan Deal
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inor Hotel Group (MHG) has announced the 116-key Oaks Neemrana, the first Oaks-branded property in India. Neemrana is a fast-developing business hub located southwest of New Delhi. Scheduled to open in 2017, Oaks Neemrana will be situated in the centre of the town, above NSP Arcadia Mall which is also currently under construction. Dillip Rajakarier, CEO, MHG, enthused, “We are excited to announce both the first Oaks in India and also the first Minor Hotel Group property in India. The Oaks brand is a great fit for this market, which represents a huge opportunity, and we are confident that the property will be a great success.”
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hoice Hotels International penned a deal with franchise partner City Sunstone Properties to develop a new Cambria hotel & suites in Morristown, New Jersey, US. The 120-room project, which is expected to open in July 2017, will boast extensive meeting space, a spa, an indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, as well as a bistro, oversized rooms and a lobby area. “There are numerous corporations based around Morristown, and we are confident their clients and partners will be pleased once they experience the Cambria brand,” said Rod Atamian, managing partner, City Sunstone Properties.
xpanding its footprint in New York, Oetker Collection will open a new property in Manhattan in spring 2018. Located close to Central Park at 550 Madison Avenue, the hotel will occupy the former Sony Tower, an iconic landmark for the city. Spread across eight floors of the 43-storey building, the project will feature 170 rooms including 60 suites. Guests will have at their disposal a bar and lounge area, gourmet restaurant, spa and fitness centres and a pool. Above the hotel, from floor 21 to 43, New Yorker Chetrit Group, owner of the building, will create 115 luxury apartments which will also be operated by Oetker Collection.
Central Park
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arlson Rezidor Asia Pacific Business Conference took place at Radisson Blu Plaza Bangkok, gathering senior executives to celebrate the company’s recent achievements. Having recorded accelerated growth in Asia Pacific in 2015, opening 10 hotels and signing 23 new projects, the hotelier continues the momentum to reach its targets. In Bangkok alone, the company operates four hotels and in the second quarter of the year, Radisson Blu Resort Hua Hin in Thailand’s premier resort destination will also join the portfolio.
Choice Hotels’ Cambria Expands in New Jersey
Carlson Rezidor Asia Pacific Business Conference
Carlson Rezidor Marks Asia Pacific Success
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27 FEBRUARY 2016
RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
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SAMI KAPLANCI GENERAL MANAGER, RIXOS BAB AL BAHR
THOSE LOOKING FOR THE ULTIMATE UAE EXPERIENCE SHOULD CONSIDER ADDING RAS AL KHAIMAH TO THEIR ITINERARY, SAYS SAMI KAPLANCI, GENERAL MANAGER, RIXOS BAB AL BAHR.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Over the past years, Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism industry has significantly evolved with various projects and increased numbers of arrivals. How has business been at the hotel as compared to previous years? SAMI KAPLANCI: There has been a significant increase. Rixos Bab Al Bahr opened alongside Doubletree by Hilton on Al Marjan Island in the first quarter of 2014. To give the approximate statistics from 2014 to 2015, we have seen an increase of 20 percent in room nights and occupancy. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Based on your experience, how has the perception of Ras Al Khaimah changed over the past years? 27 FEBRUARY 2016
Rixos Bab Al Bahr
SAMI KAPLANCI: With its own unique identity and diversity of landscapes Ras Al Khaimah offers visitors idyllic leisure, adventure and affordable luxury experiences. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are wonderful destinations and wellknown and established in the minds of travellers around the world. We do not see Ras Al Khaimah as a competitor to other emirates, rather as the perfect place that complements an enhanced UAE experience. It also serves as a great staycation location for the local market – especially for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the other emirates. Rixos Bab Al Bahr has fast become a favourite for this market with its all-inclusive offering. In addition, with even greater airline networks to and from RAK International Airport, travelling to the emirate has never been easier.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Besides being a unique holiday destination, Ras Al Khaimah is also working hard to promote itself for MICE, cruising as well as adventure tours. What segments are you focussing on? As an industry stakeholder, how do you see these niche segments developing over the coming years? SAMI KAPLANCI: There are huge possibilities that Ras Al Khaimah will become the destination for meetings and events. At Rixos Bab Al Bahr, we focus on corporate meetings, events
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: In order to cater to the increased number of visitors, by 2019, some 3,600 new rooms are expected to enter the market in Ras Al Khaimah. How will this growth in supply affect the hotel sector’s performance? SAMI KAPLANCI: The tourism market in Ras Al Khaimah is dynamic and is constantly changing and developing. What is important for us is to set a high standard of service, ensure that we are innovating with our product and promotional offerings and most importantly ensuring that we deliver a wow experience for guests so that they come back time and time again.
Rixos Bab Al Bahr
and retreats, in addition to other private events. With the largest and most prestigious conference centre in Ras Al Khaimah, combined with our all-inclusive offering – it is an ideal choice for both small and larger scale events.
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL Best Western Expands Pakistani Portfolio
Thailand’s Occupancy Soars in 2015
El Mangroove Joins Autograph
Cape Town Bottoms Out in 2015
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ape Town’s tourism was marred by a number of entry barriers, including proposed changes to visa regulations, during the first half of 2015. Hindrances were reflected in inhibited development, with only 57 percent of surveyed Cape Town Tourism members reporting year-over-year growth and 28 percent recording a stagnant performance. This trend continued between April – September 2015 when the accommodation sector reported monthly decreases in occupancy figures for every month except May and September. Only the fourth quarter saw significant growth which helped flatten the troughs of the first nine months to result in overall buoyant figures for the year.
Cape Town
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utograph Collection Hotels celebrated the addition of El Mangroove, its second property in Costa Rica to its growing portfolio. Located off the Gulf of Papagayo, the newest member is a sustainable boutique, lifestyle resort that boasts a modern design incorporating the country’s natural beauty. The 85-unit hotel features two dining outlets, a swimming pool, live music and events, on-site bicycles, state-of-the-art spa and a fitness centre. Tim Sheldon, president, the Caribbean and Latin America, Marriott International, noted, “This year we welcomed our 100th property in the region, and I am certain that El Mangroove will bring both a unique and culturally rich perspective to the expanding portfolio.”
he year 2015 was the best one for Thailand in over two decades, STR Global revealed. Overall occupancy stood at 73.4 percent, 13.6 percent higher than in 2014, and arrivals neared the 30 million mark, boosted by strong demand from Mainland China. December was particularly successful with occupancy levels soaring to of 77.4 percent, the highest since 1995. “Thailand clearly possesses the most vibrant tourism industry in the region. […] We will see this emerge as a major storyline through the year as the country will lead the region's tourism development,” said Bill Barnett, managing director, C9 Hotelworks.
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est Western Hotels & Resorts opened its first-ever property in Faisalabad, Pakistan. Located in the Punjabi destination’s central business district, Best Western Faisalabad Hotel is just steps away from Jinnah Gardens, hailed as the green heart of the city. The 30-unit establishment features modern amenities, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine and a selection of meeting rooms. Ron Pohl, senior vice president, brand management, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, noted, “With the opening of Best Western Faisalabad Hotel, we plan to provide the city with a globally-recognised affordable accommodation option that will appeal to all types of traveller.”
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STEFAN BREG has been named director of food and beverage at Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide for the Europe, Africa and Middle East region. He will spearhead the formulation and implementation of the company's food and beverage strategy across these markets which currently include nearly 1,200 restaurants and outlets across more than 260 properties. Breg, who will be based in the Dubai office, has over 25 years of experience. Over the years, he has successfully navigated more than 200 restaurants from concept stages to opening across Europe, Middle East and Asia. He previously headed concept development for InterContinental Hotels Group in Asia and the Middle East and has also held senior roles at Hilton Worldwide.
SAMI KAPLANCI has been selected as Rixos Bab Al Bahr’s new general manager. In his capacity, Kaplanci will oversee the entire hotel operations as well as the commercial performance of the 650-unit resort. Having spent 22 years in the international hospitality scene, his previous experiences include general manager positions with Rixos Hotels in Egypt, and various managerial roles in the North African country as well as Turkey with Sunrise Resorts & Cruises, Joy Group of Hotels and Akka Hotels. His career began in Germany with InterContinental Hotels Group before relocating to Turkey.
Kaplanci also worked in Egypt and Turkey
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ANNA OLSSON
WHO’S MOVED
ANNA OLSSON has joined Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi as director of sales and marketing. With strategic partnerships and efforts to further promote the hotel as a MICE and leisure destination, Olsson will play her part as a crucial resource with over 17 years in the industry in the Middle East, Asia and Europe. She brings to the team strong leadership skills, an influential network from over five years in Dubai and significant business acumen, having delivered on key financial and market positioning objectives in her last role as cluster director of sales and marketing and in similar roles she has held with other luxury brands.
Olsson has experience with luxury brands
GALIP MAHAZIM
SAMI KAPLANCI
STEFAN BREG
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GALIP MAHAZIM has joined Rixos Bab Al Bahr’s team as hotel manager. Responsible for the day-today execution of all property operations and overseeing over 600 members of staff, Mahazim brings to his role extensive knowledge of food and beverage management, hotel operations and pre-opening experiences within the luxury segment. His international experience spans brands such as Kempinski, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts and Rixos Hotels. He began his career in food and beverage and progressed through the ranks to become hotel manager Rixos Downtown Antalya in 2012. From there he moved to Rixos Sharm El Sheikh where he worked together with Sami Kaplanci, the new general manager of Rixos Bab Al Bahr.
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TRAVEL TALK
MANAGING DIRECTOR, WORLD EXPO 2020 BID COMMITTEE
H.E. REEM AL HASHIMY
PRESIDENT, LOUVRE HOTELS GROUP MENA
It is very important that we utilise the facilities
“The Expo 2020 Dubai is expected to attract 25 million visits. […] We need to ensure that we do something really impressive that leaves a meaningful legacy for the country. It is very important that we utilise the facilities for decades to come and not just for the exhibition. It has to be sustainable.”
EXHIBITION MANAGER, ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET
AMINE MOUKARZEL
SECRETARY GENERAL, WORLD TOURISM ORGANIZATION (UNWTO)
“As the current environment highlights in a particular manner the issues of safety and security, we should recall that tourism development greatly depends upon our collective capacity to promote safe, secure and seamless travel. In this respect, UNWTO urges governments to include tourism administrations in their national security planning, structures and procedures […] to maximise the sector’s ability to support security and facilitation, as seamless and safe travel can and should go hand in hand.”
NADEGE NOBLET-SEGERS
TALEB RIFAI
Tourism development greatly depends upon our collective capacity
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Initiatives are set to encourage midmarket sector investment
“Dubai continues to shed light on the importance and need for having quality, value driven midscale lodging projects. A number of highly attractive initiatives are set to encourage midmarket sector investment, including the release of government land plots for development, the increasing speed of construction permit approvals and the waiver of the 10 percent municipality room tax for four years.”
Offering midmarket options frees up additional visitor spend “Traditionally the upscale hotel segment has been driving regional hospitality sector growth for the last decade. However, as economies continue with long-term diversification plans, [...] tourism markets are now recognising the potential demand for midmarket options. […] Offering midmarket options frees up additional visitor spend for other activities – something the UAE, and Dubai in particular, has led the way in when developing its tourism offering.”
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 Mohamed Imerhane
NAME: When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? It has been 22 years since I started in the tourism industry as a mountain guide in Morocco. What are the most important attributes of a good travel agent/tour operator? The most important things for a good travel agency include good services and new programmes and adventures. What is the most frequently asked question that your company receives from customers? The most asked question from our clients is about the trek; details about the connections, communication and the weather.
POSITION: Manager COMPANY: Toubkal Adventures LOCATION: Morocco WEBSITE:
www.trekinmorocco.com www.toubkaladventures.com
Travelstart to Extend African Market Leadership
What are the must-visits and must-dos in Morocco that no one should miss? In Morocco, we have many lovely places to visit; the cities, the Sahara, the beach or trek the Atlas Mountain.
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ravelstart received a USD40 million funding from Amadeus Capital Partners to be utilised for the company’s expansion in Africa to further solidify its position as the biggest online travel agency on the continent. The grant, hailed as the largest of its kind in Africa, Turkey and the Middle East, also brings a strategic partnership with telecommunications provider, MTN. Stephan Ekbergh, CEO, Travelstart, noted, “Travelstart celebrates 10 years in Africa this year. In that time, our inhouse team has built a robust platform to serve consumers and significantly lower fares for all travellers.” As Ekbergh noted, Africa alone is a USD50 billion travel market growing between three – five percent annually.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
JA BACKS OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC IHG ENHANCES CSR PLAN
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) launched IHG Foundation which will operate as an independent charity with a special focus on activities on four key areas. These include helping communities develop hospitality skills, providing support for those impacted by disasters, facilitating local community investment and protecting the environment. The latest initiative builds on the hotelier’s established history of wide-ranging responsible business practices with corporate social responsibility (CSR) actions such as IHG Academy and IHG Green Engage. Richard Solomons, CEO, IHG, commented, “[IHG Foundation’s first grant recipients] provide a powerful early sign of the positive impact the foundation will deliver, helping to set the foundations for stronger, healthier and more prosperous communities around the world.”
JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort
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A Resorts & Hotels teamed up with golf in DUBAI as the official catering and hotel sponsor for Omega Dubai Desert Classic. The hotelier’s flagship property, JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort has long been affiliated with international golf, having played host to Dubai Desert Classic Challenge Match for several years, and the new partnership will see the accommodation establishment assume a larger role. The hospitality company will now provide all catering for spectators and players in addition to hosting golfers and their families during both tournaments. David Thomson, chief operating officer, JA Resorts & Hotels, highlighted, “We strongly believe that the development of golf has always been an essential ingredient in making [Dubai the] global centre for sports creativity, leadership and excellence.”
RAMADA DOWNTOWN DUBAI LAUNCHES HOSPITALITY INITIATIVE
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n a bid to ensure the highest standards, Ramada Downtown Dubai has rolled out the Hallmark of Hospitality programme. Highlighting four key attributes, including engaging, personalised, proactive and prompt, the scheme which was developed by the training department, focusses on three strategies, starting off with hiring the right associates with the right attitude, followed by training the team with the required skills to empower them to deliver exceptional service. The last approach seeks to improve the process by systematically tracking the service delivery time and analysing guest request patterns.
F IACC SHEDS LIGHT ON MEETING TRENDS 22
ollowing research among 378 members of the International Association of Conference Centres (IACC), the organisation released Top Meeting Package Trends, highlighting this year’s most important concepts that are influencing meeting planners and venue operators. Mark Cooper, CEO, IACC, commented, “We are seeing some very innovative meeting packages available at IACC member venues in 22 countries across the globe.” Based on the study, 95 percent of venues have offered nontraditional meeting packages for over five years; delegate bundles make good business sense for third parties; 55 percent of respondents reported that meeting planners wanted tailor-made packages, 65 percent said that planners are starting to request new inclusions; and the majority agreed that flexible kits are here to stay.
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Emirates Group honoured 35 employees with the Najm Chairman’s Award
City Seasons Muscat hotel completed the recertification for ISO 22000
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Banyan Tree Group won a total of eight awards at 2015 Travel & Leisure China Awards
Majid Al Futtaim malls in Dubai celebrated the Chinese New Year
27 FEBRUARY 2016
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Celebrations at Hamad International Airport’s Qatar Duty Free Chinese pavilion started and will extend throughout March
Millennium Resort Mussanah marked the five-year anniversary of 40 employees
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NEWS & EVENTS Pool and Spa Event Comes to Dubai
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L events, organisers of Piscine Global, Lyon, partnered with dmg events to bring Piscine Middle East to Dubai World Trade Centre. The show comes at a time when the Global Wellness Institute declares the UAE as the top spa growth powerhouse of MENA. In fact, Euromonitor International expects the country’s spa revenues to reach USD495 million by 2019. Hosted alongside The Leisure Show which highlights saunas, fitness, wellness, sports, recreational fun, adventure, outdoor furniture, landscaping, design and lighting products and services, Piscine Middle East, which will be held between September 17 – 19, will be a must-attend event for hoteliers, claimed Christine Davidson, group event director, dmg events Middle East & Asia.
CEMS to Focus on Visitors
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EVENTS ILTM JAPAN Tokyo, Japan February 29 – March 02 www.iltm.com/japan Reflecting on the 35 percent yearon-year boost Japan witnessed in 2015 in luxury visitors, the event opens for the first time in Tokyo, and will be bigger than ever.
MICE ARABIA CONGRESS Dubai, UAE March 01 – 02 www.mice-arabia.com Emphasising opportunities for outbound business and luxury travel from the Middle East, the event is designed to bring suppliers from all over the world to meet senior level executives from the GCC.
MIDDLE EAST RAIL
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onference & Exhibition Management Services (CEMS) threw the spotlight on three international tourism events, all of which are aimed at capturing China’s outbound tourism industry. Beijing International Tourism Expo (BITE), China Xi’an Silk Road International Tourism Expo (CXSRITE) and Chengdu International Tourism Expo (CITE) were introduced at a special appreciation reception in Beijing where the company revealed plans to improve the interaction and networking opportunities between exhibitors and trade visitors by dedicating the first two days to destination presentations, buyer-seller meeting sessions, seminars and a boosted hosted buyer programme.
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Dubai, UAE March 08 – 09 www.terrapinn.com The conference will host a large gathering of rail operators, government entities and contractors to analyse a sector with 16 major projects, worth USD352 billion, currently underway.
ITB BERLIN Berlin, Germany March 09 – 13 www.itb-berlin.de Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the event aims to attract more than 115,000 trade visitors this year.
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