5 MARCH 2016 ISSUE 330
08 GENERAL
06 CRYSTAL LAGOONS: USD2 BILLION PROJECTS IN EGYPT
QATAR TOURISM REACHES NEW HEIGHTS
12 RJ INTRODUCES SECOND CHINESE ROUTE
04 Shopping Tourism 09 Accommodation 20 Travel Talk
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
JAZEERA AIRWAYS PLOTS FOR THE FUTURE
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
Jazeera Airways recorded a net profit of KWD15.4 million (USD51.5 million) and a two percent increase year-on-year in operating profit reaching KWD13.6 million (USD45.5 million) in 2015.
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he company’s board of directors have recommended a 15 percent cash dividend totalling KWD3 million (USD10 million). In 2015, the carrier successfully exited the aircraft leasing business to focus on airline commerce. In doing so, Jazeera Airways introduced The Next Big Thing, a series of ambitious initiatives to boost offering and reinforce the brand over the coming years, including remote check-in, a new business lounge and plans for a dedicated terminal at Kuwait International Airport, in-flight broadband at affordable rates and the inauguration of long-haul destinations.
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MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of
2
04.3.2016
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
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
108.80
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
7.83
Iran (IRR)
Rial
30,201.00
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,107.10
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,508.70
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.39
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.86
Syria (SYP)
Pound
219.80
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.04
Yemen (YER)
Rial
214.89
Wyndham Worldwide closed 2015 with an adjusted net income of USD608 million, or USD5.11 per diluted share, compared to USD573 million, or USD4.53 per share in 2014.
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evenues for the full year reached USD5.5 billion, a year-on-year surge of five percent. Following strong fourth quarter results, the board of directors authorised an increase of the quarterly cash dividend to USD0.50, and approved a USD1 billion raise in the share repurchase programme.
5 MARCH 2016
WEEKLY NEWS SHOPPING TOURISM
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Emaar Malls Records Growth in Profit In 2015, Emaar Malls registered a net profit of AED1.65 billion (USD451 million), 23 percent higher than 2014’s figure of AED1.35 billion (USD368 million).
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The Dubai Mall
oreover, rental income grew 11 percent to AED2.99 billion (USD815 million) and occupancy levels increased to reach 96 percent. Visitor arrivals across all Emaar malls crossed the 124 million mark, a year-on-year surge of nine percent, with The Dubai Mall accounting for 80 million annual shoppers. “Through our retail and leisure attractions within our malls, we are […] creating globally distinctive lifestyle experiences that add to the pride of the city,” said Mohamed Alabbar, chairman, Emaar Malls.
Yas Mall Lures 20 Million Guests
Riyadh to Receive New Malls
Jumeirah Welcomes New Shopping Facility
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ajid Al Futtaim plans to invest SAR14 billion (USD3.73 billion) to develop two shopping centres in Riyadh, which will see a series of luxury brands as well as leisure experiences come to the Kingdom. In north Riyadh, the 866,000m2 Mall of Saudi will be the country’s first fully-integrated lifestyle destination to include shops, residential units, offices, luxury hotels, serviced apartment buildings and a snow park. City Centre Ishbiliyah will enter the eastern part of the city covering 100,000m2 of gross leasable area and will feature 250 stores, a food court and an entertainment complex.
Riyadh
ince its opening in November 2014, Yas Mall has welcomed over 20 million people, 18 million of which visited the shopping destination in 2015, according to Aldar Properties’ data. In its first year of operation, the Abu Dhabi commercial centre brought together many sought-after brands under one roof, boasting 83 stores, 62 dining outlets and several attractions. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, CEO, Aldar Properties, commented, “The addition of new flagship stores like Apple and Tryano at the end of [2015] complemented our existing offerings that include one of the world’s largest Debenhams stores; Boutique 1; the world’s first UEFA Champions League Experience; House of Fraser; and the Capital’s largest VOX Cinemas with 4Dx technology.”
he Mall, a new shopping, leisure and entertainment centre, has officially opened its doors in Dubai’s Jumeirah district. The AED400 million (USD109 million) retail precinct, located across from Burj Al Arab, adds to the redevelopment of Jumeirah’s façade with its Art Deco style architectural elements, and debuts new fashion brands, innovative cafés and restaurants as well as amusement options. The 7,500m2 establishment boasts 66 outlets, including seven kiosks. In addition, the complex will house some of the leading names within the food and beverage industry and will feature a kids’ entertainment concept, financial services as well as a government office to ensure guest convenience. 9 JANUARY 2016
5 MARCH 2016
WEEKLY NEWS LEISURE TOURISM
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Crystal Lagoons: USD2 Billion Projects in Egypt
El Gouna project
Crystal Lagoons landed a duo of ventures, worth almost USD2 billion, in Egypt, including a contract for what is hailed as North Africa’s largest-ever water-based leisure attraction.
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he developer has been signed up for the Bo Islands project, a 10 million square metre upscale tourism and residential community, where the main highlight will be a 32ha crystalline lagoon. Stage one of the destination is slated for completion in the first quarter of 2018. The company will also start construction works on the two-hectare El Gouna community development in the second quarter of this year. According to Carlos Salas, regional director, Middle East, Crystal Lagoons, the residential-meets-tourism concept will target high-end investors who expect the highest standards of leisure facilities.
Wild Wadi Waterpark Returns
Kuwait’s Largest Mixed-use Address Takes Shape
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Wild Wadi Waterpark
uwait’s Tamdeen Group is on schedule to open AL KOUT, a retail, lifestyle and leisure development, in 2017. Upon completion, it will become the country’s largest waterfront mixed-use destination at 300,000m2. Located in southern Kuwait, the project will be a representation of the growing lifestyle, shopping, leisure and entertainment aspirations of the country, according to Mohammed Jassim Khalid Al Marzouq, chairman, Tamdeen Group. A major component of the development is the replacement of Al Manshar Mall and four residential towers, with the new Al Kout Mall.
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ollowing its annual maintenance closure, Dubai’s Wild Wadi Waterpark has reopened to the public. Visitors can choose from 30 attractions, including gravity-defying rides, such as the Master Blaster which offers a unique aquatic roller coaster experience. Other family-friendly rides include Burj Surj and Tantrum Alley.
Al Kout Mall rendering
5 MARCH 2016
WEEKLY NEWS
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QATAR TOURISM REACHES NEW
Heights
QATAR TOURISM AUTHORITY REPORTED THREE MILLION VISITORS TO THE COUNTRY IN 2015, WITH FUTURE TARGETS GOING AS HIGH AS FOUR MILLION BY 2020.
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Oman: USD35 Billion Tourism Vision
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Oman
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nderscoring the industry’s significance to Oman’s socioeconomic growth, the country pledges to invest some USD35 billion in tourism between 2015 – 2040. Building on the past decade’s success, which has resulted in a 7.4 percent annual increase in visitor number between 2005 – 2014, Oman now aims to attract 1.4 million international travellers by 2019, up from 1.1 million in 2015. Ahead of this year’s Arabian Travel Market, Reed Travel Exhibitions’ team visited Muscat to meet with key industry players.
Doha
ooking further ahead, [tourism’s contribution to the national GDP] is expected to grow annually by 4.7 percent, to reach USD7.2 billion in 2025 as Qatar works towards its strategic goal of positioning itself as a world-class hub with deep cultural roots,” said Nadege Noblet-Segers, exhibition manager, Arabian Travel Market (ATM). Noblet-Segers added that an increasingly diversified tourism portfolio requires an equally broad hospitality offering in Qatar, including both luxury and midrange categories, which is something ATM is focussing on this year.
Tabuk Tourism Officials Detail Red Sea Strategy
Bahrain Enables Easier Access for African Citizens
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he executive committee of Tabuk Tourism Development Council recently met with planning specialists from the Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage (SCTH) at a two-phased workshop in order to elaborate on the province’s experience in activating the Red Sea tourism strategy. The meeting predominantly focussed on the most important aspects of a successful cooperation which has turned challenges into opportunities through a concrete and sustainable partnership sponsored by the council under the support and directives of H.R.H. Prince Fahad bin Sultan bin Abdul Aziz, governor, Tabuk province and under the persistent follow-up of H.R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president, SCTH.
ahrain introduced e-visas to visitors from 11 African countries, marking the third phase of the Kingdom’s new visa policy. Nationals from Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Mozambique, Cameroon, Gabon, Senegal, Mauritius and Seychelles can now obtain their visas online ahead of travel. Shaikh Ahmed bin Isa Al Khalifa, assistant undersecretary, general directorate of nationality, passports and residence affairs, Ministry of Interior, Bahrain, said, “The addition of the African countries to Bahrain’s progressive visa policy is a significant step forward to providing easier access into Bahrain for all visitors. The addition of these important African economies will help 9 support the 2016 JANUARY business and tourism sectors in the Kingdom and hopefully those of the wider GCC region.”
5 MARCH 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Rotana to Add Nine UAE Projects
Four Seasons Al Maryah Island to Launch
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5 MARCH 2016
Rotana plans to further expand its presence in the UAE by opening nine new hotels in the country over the next five years, including four properties in Abu Dhabi and five in Dubai.
Saadiyat Rotana Resort
ocated in an urban community in the heart of the UAE capital, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island will start welcoming guests on May 08. The 34-storey glass tower property boasts 200 units, six restaurant and lounge concepts, two ballrooms, rooftop poolside terrace, as well as a spa and fitness complex. “Our mission is to provide a thoughtful, personalised experience to each of our guests, whether it is a productive business trip or a day spent rejuvenating at our spa, a fun-filled family holiday or an enjoyable meal with friends,” commented Sam Ioannidis, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island.
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ogether, the developments will add 3,598 keys to the company’s existing 9,584-strong room count in the UAE, and will take the total number of Rotana properties in the destination to 44 by 2020. Furthermore, the hotelier is also enhancing its regional portfolio with five openings in Saudi Arabia this year, as well as three projects in Qatar and one in Kuwait by the end of 2018.
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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RIU to Enter Dubai
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Deira Islands rendering
IU Hotels & Resorts and Nakheel signed a partnership agreement which will see the Spanish hotelier’s first property in Dubai become a reality in 2019. The planned 750-key accommodation establishment will form part of the master developer’s Deira Islands coastal project which will feature a number of hotels, Deira Mall retail and entertainment complex, Deira Islands Night Market with 5,300 shops, a marina, as well as an amphitheatre seating 30,000 people. Ali Rashid Lootah, chairman, Nakheel, noted, “This is a major milestone for our growing hospitality business and a significant step towards creating a new range of affordable, family resort-style hotel accommodation in the emirate.”
Rove Hotel Coming to Dubai Parks and Resorts
Nikki Beach Greets Dubai
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Rove At The Park
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n a bid to introduce itself, Nikki Beach Restaurant & Beach Club Dubai is gearing up to host its grand opening on March 17. The club is part of the upcoming Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, which is located on the waterfront of Pearl Jumeirah, and features a collection of 117 rooms and suites, as well as 15 ultra-deluxe villas and 63 lifestyle residence units. Jack Penrod, founder, Nikki Beach WorldWide, said, “We are excited to bring this signature event to the residents of this stylish city, while welcoming Dubai to the Nikki Beach family.”
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
ove Hotels, the joint venture of Emaar Properties and Meraas, plans to open a property adjacent to the upcoming Dubai Parks and Resorts project. One of 10 hotels being developed by the hotelier by 2020, Rove At The Park will feature 458 units and will sport a contemporary and urban design with Arabesque elements in line with the brand’s ethos. Ideal for families, 30 percent of the rooms will be interconnected. “A young and trendy brand, Rove Hotels defines a new dimension in the evolution of the city’s hospitality sector,” claimed Chris Newman, corporate director, operations, Emaar Hospitality Group.
5 MARCH 2016
WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Monroe Hotel, Beirut Re-emerges
Al Khobar to Welcome Swiss-Belhotel
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wiss-Belhotel International is the latest hotelier to establish its presence in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. Scheduled to open by the end of the year, the 100key Swiss-Belhotel Al Khobar will address the need for four-star accommodation in the city which was described by Gavin Faull, president, Swiss-Belhotel International, as one of the Kingdom’s top business and tourist destinations. The company is already present in Mecca, while its new hotel in Riyadh is set to be unveiled later this year.
Monroe Hotel, Beirut
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he Monroe Group of Hotels officially introduced guests to the newly renovated Monroe Hotel, Beirut. Having undergone a full refurbishment of the lobby, guestrooms, meeting rooms, auditorium and ballroom, the property now also boasts a refreshed spa, hairdressing salon and fashion boutique. “Monroe has been known for its impressive views of the Mediterranean and for its strategic location in the heart of Beirut within walking distance to the best archaeological sites and old souks of the city. In addition to being located in the business district of Downtown Beirut, it gives the businessmen the greatest opportunity to mix business with leisure,” commented Ghassan Naaman, general manager, The Monroe Group of Hotels.
Swiss-Belhotel International announcement
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Sharm El Sheikh to Receive Second Radisson Blu
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adisson Blu Resort, Sharm El Sheikh Lagoon, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s new five-star property is expected to open in Nabq Bay later this year. Offering views of the Sinai Mountains and the Red Sea and surrounded by a large artificial lagoon, the resort will boast 514 contemporary units varying from different room types, themed family and royal suites to private villas, while a selection of outlets aims to accommodate all guest needs. Moreover, the accommodation establishment will feature a 31-slide onsite aqua park, five swimming pools as well as 220m of beach.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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RJ Introduces Second Chinese Route Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) is poised to further expand its presence in China with thrice-weekly services to Guangzhou set to commence on March 21.
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Guangzhou
s Suleiman Obeidat, president, RJ, noted, the addition of the Asian country’s third largest city is in line with the carrier’s long-term plan. “One of the pillars of this strategy is to review the route network and open new, profitable markets,” explained Obeidat, saying that the flight is expected to attract high volumes of traders and businessmen.
Qatar Airways Expands African Reach
Turkish Airlines Join with Royal Brunei Airlines
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hree new African destinations were added to Qatar Airways’ route map due to the airline’s codeshare agreement with Comair, a franchise of British Airways. Qatar’s national carrier has placed its code on flights that have British Airways livery, operated by Comair, from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban, Harare, Victoria Falls and Port Elizabeth. Additionally, the airline’s sign also appears on itineraries operated by Comair from Cape Town to Durban and Port Elizabeth. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, commented, “Expanding our network with Comair was a natural progression of our investment in Africa and our desire to make it easier to visit this exciting part of the world.”
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oyal Brunei Airlines signed a codeshare agreement with Turkish Airlines allowing passengers to connect from Bandar Seri Begawan to Istanbul via Dubai and vice versa. Ahmet Bolat, chief investment and technology officer, Turkish Airlines, commented, “[This deal] will provide us to sell our offline destination Bandar Seri Begawan via Dubai and improve our partnership to maximise the travel opportunities offered to our passengers through the networks of both airlines.” The Turkish carrier added its code to Royal Brunei Airlines-operated flights between the Asian city and Dubai. In return, Brunei’s flag airline placed its own code to Turkish Airlines services between Istanbul and Dubai.
5 MARCH 2016
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR Loan Secured for RJ
flydubai: Fourth Full Year of Profitability
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oyal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) closed an oversubscribed USD275 million dual conventional and Islamic loan deal with a syndicate of seven banks. The facility carries a tenor of five years and its proceeds will be primarily utilised to consolidate and refinance the airline’s existing debt and further support the company’s ongoing strategic growth and turnaround plans for the short and medium run. As Suleiman Hafez, chairman, RJ, explained, the long-term goal is to evolve into one of the Levant and the Middle East region’s leading carriers.
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lydubai reported profits of AED100.7 million (USD 27.4 million) for 2015 following a stronger second half-year which saw increased passenger numbers across the network. Total revenue for the year was AED 4.9 billion (USD 1.33 billion), a boost of 11 percent compared to 2014. Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, flydubai, commented that even though the overall trading environment remained challenging, the airline maintained its growth, ending 2015 on a positive note.
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
Gulf Air Showcases Entertainment Offering
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Qatar Airways Displayed in Singapore
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ohamad ElAssaad, senior marketing manager, inflight and product, Gulf Air, represented the airline at the recently-concluded Inflight Workshop in Dubai. During the event, which attracted senior executives from major Middle Eastern airlines and global suppliers, ElAssaad shared information on the Bahraini national carrier’s onboard entertainment developments and initiatives and he also formed part of a high-profile panel of experts discussing related matters. “Inflight Workshop was an ideal platform to shed light on Gulf Air’s mission of catering to a broad spectrum of passengers’ diverse requirements. Sharing ideas and feedback with industry peers is critical to our ongoing progress and development within the field,” commented ElAssaad.
Jet Airways Boosts Ties between Dubai and India
Singapore Airshow
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atar Airways concluded its presence at this year’s Singapore Airshow having showcased its fleet to hundreds of officials, executives and fellow aviation industry members onboard its Airbus A350 and A380 as well as Gulfstream G650ER. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, noted, “As we continue to induct more new aircraft into our growing fleet, at the rate of one new plane every 10 days [this year], events such as the Singapore Airshow allow us to showcase the best and finest of our fleet. […] Our enhanced presence at the airshow this year demonstrates the region’s importance to Qatar Airways.”
DID YOU KNOW... Qatar Airways has a fleet of 176 aircraft flying to more than 150 destinations across six continents?
BA Reveals In-demand Locations
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ritish Airways (BA) released its annual list of predictions for this year’s holiday hotspots as travel experts scoured the world looking for the latest hot-to-trot destinations for travellers from the Middle East. Paolo De Renzis, head of sales, Middle East, Africa and Central Asia, BA, commented, “Our shortlist plays a part in the detailed planning for our new routes this year [...].” The most in-demand long-haul destinations for this year include five American and five European cities. Lima, Costa Rica’s San José, Rio de Janeiro, California’s San José and Tampa made up the top five, while Salzburg, Reykjavik, Valencia, Vienna and Krakow completed the list.
Lima
et Airways is expanding its operations from Dubai with the launch of new routes to its hubs in Mumbai and Delhi. The addition of the flights is set to further strengthen the Indian carrier’s growing international network and significantly enhance connectivity to the UAE. The airline launched a sixth daily frequency from Dubai to Mumbai, making the Indian company the operator of the most daily flights between the two destinations. In addition, effective from March 27, Jet Airways will also unveil a third daily flight between the emirate and Delhi.
5 MARCH 2016
WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL Meliá to Enter New York
W Mexico City Revitalised
New York to Receive First Digital Hotel
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he 312-unit Radisson Hotel Billings has opened in Billings, Montana, US. The property boasts 4,645m2 of flexible meeting and conference space, a casino, a dining outlet, indoor swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness centre and a business unit. “We are excited to continue our North American expansion with the addition of Radisson Hotel Billings, located in the largest city of Montana. [...] Radisson is focussed on adding hotels in major cities, airport gateways and leisure destinations,” commented Javier Rosenberg, chief operating officer, Americas, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.
enaissance New York Midtown Hotel, set to open this spring, will become the city’s first multisensory, interactive living property, as it will bring technology not yet seen in any other hotel, creating corridors that come alive with human interaction and digital artwork that change with every visit. Guests and visitors entering the establishment from the city’s 34th or 35th streets will intermingle with displays projected along the hallway. Responding to human movement and communication between guests, the wall will create a visual tapestry of subtle organic graphics.
Renaissance New York Midtown Hotel
Radisson Expands in Montana
Mexico City completed its multiphase transformative renovation. Inspired by the city itself, the hotel’s 237 guestrooms have been reborn with floor-to-ceiling imagery to showcase the strength and diversity of Mexico City and some of its most notable characters. The overhaul also incorporates the debut of J BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS, which offers a unique approach to Spanish cuisine. A new luxury spa concept and updated E-WOW Suite will eventually round out the property’s renovation, further bolstering its reputation as one of the destination’s premier design-led accommodation establishments.
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eliá Hotels International is to introduce its first property in New York City this month. INNSIDE New York NoMad will be within easy access of the city’s landmarks, including The High Line, Times Square and Madison Square Garden. The 313-room property will boast a signature restaurant, Impero Caffé by Scott Conant with an outdoor garden terrace. “INNSIDE New York Nomad will be a great foundation as we look to continue our expanded growth into the North American market [this year],” revealed Gabriel Escarrer, vice chairman, Meliá Hotels International, adding that the city is a perfect fit for the brand.
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5 MARCH 2016
RENDEZVOUS
Q & A with
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GEORGE AOUN CLUSTER GENERAL MANAGER, JW MARRIOTT HOTEL KUWAIT CITY, COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT HOTEL KUWAIT CITY AND RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT KUWAIT CITY
WITH KUWAIT WORKING ON A NATIONAL STRATEGY, GEORGE AOUN, CLUSTER GENERAL MANAGER, JW MARRIOTT HOTEL KUWAIT CITY, COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT HOTEL KUWAIT CITY AND RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT KUWAIT CITY, FOCUSSES ON WAYS TO PROMOTE HIS RESPECTIVE PROPERTIES.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How has business been for the hotels in 2015 and how do you see things progressing this year? GEORGE AOUN: 2015 was a struggle, especially with all the new hotels in the market without any signs of increase in demand. However, all Marriott properties in Kuwait, including JW Marriott Kuwait City, Courtyard by Marriott Kuwait and Residence Inn by Marriott Kuwait City have achieved great results in terms of occupancy and revenues. This is because Marriott hotels are always keen on 5 MARCH 2016
providing guests with the best service and great value-for-money deals. Our main focus [this year] will be to promote Residence Inn by Marriott Kuwait City as the perfect place for long-stay guests. The property offers a choice of one-bedroom studios and two-bedroom suites, each with fully equipped kitchen, seating area and dining area. Clearly, this is very different from a typical hotel room as the property extends the feeling of a comfortable home-away-from-home and offers guests inviting and functional public spaces to relax or work. It is also an ideal option for providing spacious overnight accommodations for out-of-town wedding guests and family reunions. Furthermore, we would like to focus on increasing our leisure business at JW Marriott Kuwait City and Courtyard by Marriott Kuwait City, especially since both properties are connected to two of the most prestigious shopping centres in Kuwait, Salhia Complex and Arraya Centre. On the same note, Marriott International recently launched a new concept called Meetings Imagined. This is a firstof-its kind concept that reinvents how meetings are planned, making them more social, visual and purposeful. Our main focus will be to promote this concept in the local market in order to increase customer satisfaction and loyalty by helping our guests put together unique and successful events. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are the big changes you have witnessed in the hospitality industry in Kuwait? GEORGE AOUN: Kuwait’s tourism is witnessing a steady growth year-over-year, especially with the increasing number of leisure travellers from GCC countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How important is inbound tourism for Kuwait? GEORGE AOUN: Inbound tourism in Kuwait is very important as locals and residents like to use hotels, however, the biggest share goes to beach properties and resorts. In order for us to get our market share, we have put together a wide range of attractive offers, such as the shopping packages, that allow people to enjoy big discounts at the most prestigious shopping centres in Kuwait. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are in-
dustry stakeholders’ obligations in order to enhance tourism in the country? GEORGE AOUN: When it comes to leisure business or tourism in Kuwait, its main source is the GCC, especially
Residence Inn by Marriott Kuwait City
Saudi Arabia. The stakeholders’ role in enhancing tourism includes creating various packages and offers to attract a larger audience. In addition, they also participate in trade shows, such as the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), to get exposure and promote the latest offers and products to industry buyers from various markets. Most hotels and travel agencies exhibit at ATM because it is ideally located in Dubai close to Europe and Asia as well as readily accessible by the GCC region. It also presents a great opportunity for hotels to promote summer offers to outbound and intraregional leisure business. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are Kuwait’s strong points that could help bring in more tourists? GEORGE AOUN: Kuwait is a rich source of cultural assets that range from modern museums to ancient archaeological sites. The country is also known for its splendid shopping. Therefore, travellers will find plenty of things to do and see in the country. Major attractions in Kuwait include Kuwait Towers, which comprise two major towers and a minor tower, and are considered one of the most popular landmarks in the country. Dhow Harbour is the perfect place to see the dhows and old sailing ships that were used for fishing and coastal trading in the past. Failaka Island is considered one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country.
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WEEKLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL
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Seoul Welcomes Shilla Stay Guro
Thailand Remains Popular
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hilla Stay celebrated its eighth property in South Korea with the opening of Shilla Stay Guro. Spanning 25 floors, the premium business hotel is close to the Guro Digital Complex Station and offers easy access to the city’s tech industry hub, as well as to a number of tourist attractions, parks and malls. The accommodation establishment boasts 310 rooms that can be customised for business functions or private events, three multipurpose meeting rooms, an all-day dining outlet and a fitness centre.
Dusit Devarana Resort, Haikou West rendering
usit Fudu Hotels and Resorts penned a deal with Hainan Jinxiu Industrial Company to manage a new Dusit Devarana Resort in Haikou City, Hainan Province, China. Due to open in 2018, Dusit Devarana Resort, Haikou West will offer 108 rooms and villas, as well as a Devarana Spa, two dining options, an outdoor pool, gym, kids’ club, meeting rooms and a boutique. Lim Boon Kwee, president, Dusit Fudu Hotels and Resorts, said, “We are pleased to announce this new luxury resort in Haikou, an exciting city in which to begin what will be a strong year for Dusit Fudu.”
ata released by consulting group C9 Hotelworks shows that Phuket has experienced a sustained upward growth with passenger arrivals nearly double over the past five years, while airlift has continued to flow not only into Bangkok’s two gateways, but also into secondary airports. The survey revealed an eight percent year-on-year rise in international travellers in 2015, while the domestic sector surged 15 percent. With Chinese arrivals increasing 34 percent, Bill Barnett, managing director, C9 Hotelworks, enlightened, “The China syndrome has so much to do with door-to-door travel time fuelled by a rising number of low-cost airlines that use singlebody aircraft. Another key factor remains a unique cultural connection and high esteem for brand Thailand on the Mainland.”
Phuket
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he Philippines is aiming to position itself as one of the world’s preferred destinations for Muslim tourists, as Philippine Department of Tourism (PDOT) unveiled a series of initiatives to diversify audience demographics. The authority partnered with CrescentRating to help build capabilities and resources and launch a destination marketing campaign. The deal will see PDOT increasing awareness of the availability of Muslim-friendly holiday experiences and facilities in the country. “The Philippines receives close to 566,000 visitors from the Middle East, parts of Southeast Asian nations, as well as India. This forms our base market to extend Halal services and to move forward,” commented Ramon Jimenez, secretary, PDOT.
Dusit Fudu Expands in China
Representatives of PDOT and CrescentRating
Philippines to Attract Muslim Visitors
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5 MARCH 2016
MEHDI HANAYEN
WHO’S MOVED
RICHARD ALEXANDER has been named general manager of Jumeirah Al Naseem at Madinat Jumeirah. Alexander, who has over 31 years of experience in the luxury hotel and tourism industry, returns to Jumeirah Group and Dubai after eight years. Since leaving his general manager position at Jumeirah Mina A’Salam in 2008, he has undertaken the same role at Viceroy Hotel in Anguilla, The Marylebone Hotel in London and was also senior vice president of food and beverage at Wynn Las Vegas and Encore in the US. His career has taken him to various locations around the global such as Spain, Greece, Japan, US, Australia and Indonesia.
KHALED BICHARA
RICHARD ALEXANDER
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KHALED BICHARA has taken over as new interim CEO at Orascom Hotels and Development, and has also taken a place at the entity’s board of directors. Bichara is also the CEO of Orascom Development Holding, parent company of Orascom Hotels and Development and developer of fully-integrated destinations that include hotels, private villas and apartments as well as leisure facilities such as golf courses, marinas and supporting infrastructure.
Bichara is among Orascom Hotels and Development’s board of directors
MEHDI HANAYEN has been appointed executive assistant manager at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche. Hanayen will be responsible for the hotel operations, including rooms, food and beverage, events, spa, security and engineering departments. He will assist the property’s general manager as well as the heads of various departments in their duties to maintain brand standards and monitor service quality and guest satisfaction. Prior to his appointment, Hanayen served at the hotel as director of food and beverage and was part of the establishment’s pre-opening team in 2011. His career at Sofitel started in 2008 at Sofitel El Gezirah.
Hanayen assisted in the opening of the hotel too
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TRAVEL TALK
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GENERAL MANAGER, GOLDEN SANDS HOTEL APARTMENTS, DUBAI
MOHAMMED KHOORI
PRESIDENT, EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA, WYNDHAM HOTEL GROUP
KARIM ZAKI
“As the major urban, commercial and cultural centre of western Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is a beguiling crossroads and a city that marries with Ramada’s global nature. [Ramada Jeddah Corniche] is the brand’s second hotel in the city. The location of the new Ramada Jeddah Corniche is ideal for corporate travellers, as well as for visitors looking to experience the city’s must-see attractions. Jeddah is widely considered the most liberal and diverse city in the country, attracting both domestic and international visitors.”
We became the hotels of choice for many travellers to Fujairah
GENERAL MANAGER, NOVOTEL, IBIS AND ADAGIO FUJAIRAH
The Indian market is in our top three
“The Indian market is in our top three visitors because we offer good value for their money and because of our ideal location, thus, we are expecting an increased number of guests from this market this year, both from our loyal and new guests.”
ACTING GROUP CEO, ABU DHABI NATIONAL EXHIBITIONS COMPANY
HUMAID MATAR AL DHAHERI
DANIEL RUFF
Ramada Jeddah Corniche is ideal for corporate travellers
“The TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards [given to Novotel Fujairah and ibis Fujairah] prove that we did an amazing job in the past two years since opening the complex of Novotel, ibis and Adagio Fujairah. We became the hotels of choice for many travellers to Fujairah, offering superior accommodation at competitive prices.”
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre marked the busiest month “Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre marked the busiest month on its calendar of regional and international events in October 2015 when the region’s premier events venue hosted 41 scheduled events in a single month for the first time since inception. This is 20 percent more than the monthly average of 34 events over the last five-year period between 2011 – 2015. [The] previous highest number of events in a month was in October 2012 when the venue hosted 40 events.”
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AGENT CORNER
AGENT’S INSIGHT Jaal Shah
NAME:
What are the most important attributes of a good travel agent/tour operator? [Agents] need to understand the mindset of their customers and give them the correct solutions and at the same time be transparent with them to avoid future problems. So they need to do a self-check: Am I delivering the best value to my client? This means relationship and trust building. What are the must-visits and mustdos in India that no one should miss? India is a colourful and vibrant country, where we have celebrations every day and as a result you need to have ample time to cover every corner of India. In India, you will get desert, land, sea, mountains, snowfall and all time raining regions to name a few. In short, India is a place where you need to get on the street and do self-exploration to get the real look and feel of the country. Which destination is on your bucket list? I am a keen traveller and have been to the majority of the key destinations that one should travel to. But still, there are a few places left to be explored and I am waiting for the right time to pack my bags and go for exploration. 5 MARCH 2016
POSITION: Group managing director COMPANY: Travel Designer Group LOCATION: India WEBSITE:
www.traveldesignergroup.com
GTA Lures Iranian Industry Professionals
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TA recently hosted some 90 Iranian travel agents for a trade dinner at Tehran’s Espinas Hotel, introducing them to the benefits of partnering and booking with the company and presenting the Destination Dubai campaign. “We are extremely encouraged by the number of travel agencies that have registered with us after the event and we will continue to help them to enhance their product offerings with our GTA content. More importantly, we also received positive feedback from our guests on what worked well for their customers […],” said Rami Mashini, vice president, sales, Middle East and Africa, GTA.
Espinas Hotel
When and how did you get involved in the tourism industry? I have a very keen desire for technology and even used to create websites for clients during my college days. After my bachelor studies, I went to Bangalore and tried myself in a technology company for sometime. [There] I learned very important lessons for the travel industry and at the same time learned a lot from the experience of my father, Kalpesh Shah who is a veteran of the industry. In 1999, I started a company, which is now known as one of the leading travel wholesale companies in the world, purely on the basis of innovation and excellent service quality.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
AL BUSTAN ROTANA DUBAI SUPPORTS FOOD AID
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DNATA: COMMITTED TO ENABLING DISABILITY TRAVEL
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nata celebrated 30 years of providing special handling services to passengers with disabilities at Dubai International, by participating in AccessAbilities Expo. Almost 950 employees of the company are dedicated to assisting an average of 4,000 special needs travellers every day. In 2015, dnata provided support to over one million passengers with reduced mobility and expects an increase in line with the traffic increase at the airport. Nick Moore, senior vice president, airline services, dnata, commented, “In anticipation of the growth in passengers, we will continue to innovate and bring cutting-edge technology to make their journey more comfortable – so that travel can truly be for everyone.”
Al Bustan Rotana Dubai
A
l Bustan Rotana Dubai signed an agreement with Dubai Municipality to be an active part of the Heafz Al Na’amah food donation initiative. The charity aims to collect excess edible items from hotels and distribute these in the city’s labour camps and to other less fortunate residents. The property has contributed to the project for several years, having donated over 30,000 individual servings of food left over from its hosted weddings in 2015. As part of the programme, the hotel adheres to strict quality standard procedures set by the municipality to ensure the highest quality of donated food.
HALALTRIP PROPOSES DESTINATION OPTIONS
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alalTrip released various lists to help inspire Muslim travellers to discover alternative experiences and destinations. Designed in a fun and creative way to assist visitors in planning their trips, the online travel platform’s suggestions include top places to see, to go techfree, best natural wonders, islands and shopping havens. “With Muslim travellers now getting more adventurous with their travel destinations, we felt it was a fun and interactive way to help them to decide on their next holiday. It is the first time a series of lists specifically for Muslim tourists has been put together and we have received some fantastic feedback so far,” commented Raudha Zaini, digital content manager, HalalTrip.
E ELAF GROUP SHOWCASES INDIA’S CULINARY TRADITIONS
laf Group organised the Indian Food Festival at Elaf Jeddah Hotel Red Sea Mall to showcase the best of the country’s cuisine from diverse regions. “We have always expressed our unwavering commitment to promote different international cuisines in line with our steadfast efforts to provide our customers with a truly unforgettable experience. This event not only [celebrated] the exotic flavours of India, but also [highlighted] the sector’s strong tourism potential and its growing popularity in Saudi Arabia and the region,” said Abdullah Bakri, vice president, hotels, Elaf Group.
Members of Elaf Group and dignitaries
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PHOTO ALBUM
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Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, Abu Dhabi organised a pageant for guests
Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai celebrated the Chinese New Year
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Ramada Beach Hotel Ajman unveiled the Stellar Homemakers Concept, a by-invitation-only high tea event for ladies
Oryx Rotana celebrated the fifth Qatar National Sports Day
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Some 14 female artisans showcased their products in the Saudi Janadriyah Festival
Emirates Park Zoo and Resort launched its elephant encounter programme
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NEWS & EVENTS
IATA Addresses Legal Matters
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he International Air Transport Association (IATA) gathered legal experts to discuss best practices on managing corporate risk and reputation in an era of news-making social media, at IATA Legal Symposium in Barcelona. “With a reputation for insight, relevance and value among top airline legal counsel, private practitioners and government lawyers, IATA Legal Symposium has become the world’s foremost international aviation law conference. It is a unique opportunity to meet with industry experts from almost 50 countries to discuss the robust issues that really have an impact on aviation law globally,” said Jeff Shane, general counsel, IATA.
WTTC to Gather US Tourism Elite
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ravel Beyond Boundaries is the theme of this year’s edition of World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC)’s Global Summit, which is set to take place between April 6 – 7 in Dallas, Texas, US. “[The Global Summit] will address how the sector can continue to grow and be a force for good, whilst facing up to major issues that are having a profound impact on the world,” explained David Scowsill, president, WTTC, expressing his satisfaction at the event’s line-up of high-profile speakers. “Not only will we hear from the key business decision-makers, but in this important year for the US we are welcoming key members of the [US President Barrack] Obama administration to demonstrate their commitment to travel and tourism,” he enthused.
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EVENTS ABU DHABI AVIATION AND AEROSPACE WEEK Abu Dhabi, UAE March 06 – 12 www.adaaw.ae The inaugural event, which aims to become a biennial fixture, will take place across multiple locations in the emirate and will converge six trade, defence, entertainment and sports components under one umbrella.
MIDDLE EAST RAIL 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.
IBTM AFRICA Cape Town, South Africa April 08 www.ibtmafrica.com The show evolved from a table top event to a content-driven education programme which focusses on technology, future trends, procurement and consolidation.
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